Hi I am going to be visiting my daughter who is a student and living in South Kensington in mid March. I have heard about the Montana. Any other suggestions on reasonable hotels in that area ? I would like to spend several days touring around London and also would like to take her on a side trip for a few days. I don't enjoy driving.I would prefer a train over a bus.Is there a favorite tour company? I was thinking scotland but am open to anything.
Thanks !

I know nothing about the Montatna since I usually rent a flat while in London. But a search on Fodors will probably bring up some comments.

As for a trip to Scotland - you really don't need to take a tour from London. You can easily get to Edinburgh on your own. The choices are fast train from Kings Cross (4.5 hours), overnight sleeper train from Euston, or flying from most of the London area airports.

In general -- flying will be cheaper, train will be more convenient. The train goes city center to city center and you don't have to travel out to the airport hours ahead of time.

Edinburgh is worth a minimum of 2 or 3 days. If you have more time you can take one of the local tours offered through the Tourist Information Center at Waverly Bridge in the center of Edinburgh. There are days trips and overnighters to all over Scotland.

should have added - taking the sleeper will let you squeeze in almost a full extra day for seeing Edinburgh/Scotland since you arrive early in the morning.

What about Wales ? How long of a train ride is it ? Could we see a lot without renting a car ? Thanks !

hi mary,

But where in Wales? there are many cities and small villages. Or are you thinking of touring all around Wales? I not sure it would be convienent hopping on and off buses or trains.

This would not be convienent as a 2-3 day trip unless you were renting a car and driving around. And I am not sure there would be a tour company excursion for just 2-3 days around Wales or Scotland.

Mary,

There are several evaluations of the Montana hotel listed on the Tripadvisor.com website. (search= "London hotel Montana&quot.

As for a 2-3 day sidetrip by train...York is a popular choice. A walled medieval city about 2 hours north of London by rail. Edinburg, Scotland is another 2+hours north from York by rail. Bath is another possibility, at just over an hour by rail from London. No lack of choices here....

David White
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You will struggle to Wales adequately without a car. You reaaly want to head to North Wales and this is a long drive (at least within the UK!) from London.

I would second the idea of York or Bath but you could also consider Shropshire (a hidden gem) or the more touristy Cotswalds.