TRIP OVERVIEW
Debbie’s photography workshops aren’t typical; they’re an experience – or shall we say, a big adventure with your passport, camera, and new friends! Whether expert or beginner, there is something for everyone on this Scotland and England photographic adventure. All skill levels are welcome!
We are traveling by public trains and a hired van/driver service to some of the United Kingdom’s most picturesque locations.
If seeing as much as possible in a short space of time is your travel style, you aren’t going to be disappointed. Scotland & England 2024 is an energetic tour filled with: picturesque locations, dreamy villages, charming hotels, doors and windows draped with ivy and roses, delicious local cuisine, cozy tearooms, fresh cheese, proper scones, savory pasties, fast trains, slow trains, leisurely drives, long walks, short walks, old town charm in historic cities, breathtaking scenery, fancy gardens, fresh Highland air, bagpipes, kilts, magical evening light, and dawn/twilight shoots… and so much more!
THE ITINERARY.
29 Thursday – Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland. Orientation at the hotel.
*30 Friday – Edinburgh, Scotland. Walking tour Part One.
*31 Saturday – Scottish Highlands excursion via bus with a steam train ride.
*01 Sunday – Edinburgh, Scotland. Walking tour Part Two.
*02 Monday – York, England. Walking tour and exploration. Shopping.
*03 Tuesday – York, England. Visit York Minster. Formal afternoon tea at Betty’s.
*04 Wednesday – Stow-on-the-Wold, Cotswolds. Village exploration.
*05 Thursday – Stow-on-the-Wold, Cotswolds. Cotswold driving/walking excursion.
06 Friday – Bath, England. Old town exploration part one.
07 Saturday – Bath, England. Visit Roman Baths. Old town exploration part two.
*08 Sunday – Windsor, England. Visit Windsor Castle. Exploring & shopping.
09 Monday – Depart London Heathrow Airport.
*Hotel breakfast included.
WHAT DOES FITNESS LEVEL ‘MODERATE’ MEAN?
Moderate. You need to be capable of lifting your luggage on and off trains and in and out of vehicles, walking for sustained periods along varying terrain such as steep and uneven footpaths, up moderate to steep inclines, and on cobblestone streets. It is highly advised that you prepare for lots of walking before leaving for the tour.
WHERE ARE WE STAYING?
We are staying in five hotels. Each has been carefully selected for its location, charm, view, and amenities.
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM?
British weather is unpredictable at any time of year. You don’t travel to Scotland for its weather. However, August is usually Scotland’s warmest month. During August, temperatures average at around 66 °F, though you can get lucky with a random heatwave. Overall, you can expect mild temperatures during Scotland’s summer months. In other words, we will be wearing easy to peel off (and put back on again) layers. In September, the weather down south in the Cotswolds is sunny, and there’s low rainfall, average highs of 64ºF/lows of 50ºF. It’s ideal walking weather.
ARE WE SHOOTING AT DAWN AND DUSK?
Yes, we will be making the most of the good light, so we’ll be active at any time of day. Dusk is a great time to be out, and, in certain locations, we’ll have optional dawn shoots. In September, sunrise is around 6:10 am, (dawn is 30 minutes prior), so we’ll have a couple 5:15 am wake-up calls – if the weather cooperates. If you are too exhausted and would prefer to sleep in, that is perfectly fine.
WHAT CLOTHES & SHOES SHOULD I BRING?
Be comfortable. A detailed packing list will be sent to you, upon confirmation.
WHAT CAMERA KIT SHOULD I BRING?
Bring the camera that fits your photographic goals – DSLR or iPhone. Debbie recommends a bag that can hold the gear – keep in mind that this includes your lightweight, travel tripod. You will also want to have some extra room for a water bottle and a packed meal on the days we carry a picnic lunch. A camera backpack with a padded hip belt is vital for distributing the pack weight comfortably.
* DSLR Camera
* At least two camera batteries & charger
* At least two 64 GB memory cards – bring lots!
* Tripod that fits to the outside of your camera backpack
* Comfortable neck strap for carrying your camera
* Your favorite lenses! Three standard lenses are recommended – a wide angle lens (16 -35 mm), medium zoom (24 -70 mm), and a longer zoom (70 -200 mm), so you are able to seize all photographic opportunities. The most used will be the 24 -70 mm range, so make sure this focal length is covered.
FOOD AND DRINK?
This isn’t only a photography trip, but, also, a cultural experience. We will have many opportunities to sample the local cuisine during dinner each evening at reputable local restaurants. If you’re vegetarian like me, you won’t have a problem eating here. If you’re vegan… well, you won’t die, but you might be slightly miserable. 😉 (Actually, there are many vegan options in the UK.)
WHERE DO I MEET YOU?
I will be arriving early to make sure things are ready for your arrival. You will meet me at the Edinburgh Waverly Train Station (the airport bus stops here). Further information provided before departure.
I WANT TO GO! WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit and a signed agreement of the Workshop Terms/Conditions & Waiver form. Contact me today! Space is limited.
