From London to Glasgow: The Solo-ish Kickoff

After a whirlwind day exploring London, it was finally time to meet my travel group. This was the official start of my solo-ish journey through Scotland, and while I’d been mentally preparing, nothing quite compares to the moment you realize: It’s happening. I’m really doing this.

I didn’t know who I was supposed to be looking for, just that our guide would be holding a sign. I scanned the crowd, trying to look confident while secretly hoping I wouldn’t have to awkwardly ask strangers if they were part of my group. Thankfully, Tony, our guide, was easy to spot. Tall, friendly, and holding a clipboard like he meant business. One by one, the rest of the group appeared, as if summoned by some invisible travel spell. So far, so good.

The Single Supplement Shuffle

When I booked this trip, I made a very intentional decision: I wasn’t going to pay the dreaded single supplement. For those unfamiliar, it’s the extra fee solo travelers often have to pay to avoid sharing a room. In this case, it was an additional $900. I figured I’d be fine sharing a room with another woman. I grew up sharing a room. I could do it again for a week.

But as I started counting heads… something didn’t add up.

Two couples. A pair of best friends. And me.

Seven travelers. An odd number.

Could it be?

Tony confirmed it with a smile: I’d be getting my own room. No extra charge. Just a happy accident of group dynamics. I tried to play it cool, but inside I was doing cartwheels. The trip was already off to a fantastic start.

Meet the Group

We gathered near the station entrance for a quick round of introductions. Tony gave us the rundown… where we were headed, what to expect, and when to be back for our train to Glasgow. He had the calm, collected energy of someone who’s done this a hundred times, and I instantly felt like we were in good hands.

There was a small store next door where we could grab snacks for the ride. I wandered in, still buzzing from the excitement, and picked up a few essentials: a random ‘phizzy’ drink I’d never heard of, a sandwich, and some grapes.

The Train Ride I Didn’t Research

Now, here’s where I admit something: I had no idea the train ride to Glasgow was over four hours long. I didn’t look it up. I just… showed up. Classic. I figured it would be a quick hop, maybe two hours tops. But nope. We were in it for the long haul.

Thankfully, the train was comfortable, and the scenery was stunning. Rolling hills, quaint villages, and the occasional sheep dotting the landscape like fluffy punctuation marks. I settled into my seat, snacks in hand, and started chatting with my new travel companions.

Getting to Know the Gang

As we settled into our seats, I started chatting with my new travel companions:

• A couple from Arizona
• A couple from Michigan
• Two best friends who love to travel together
• Me, the youngest by at least 20 years,

The age gap led to some light-hearted teasing, especially when I provided tech support. I didn’t mind. It was a role I was happy to play. There’s something comforting about being useful, especially when you’re the newcomer.

We chatted about where we were from, why we chose this trip, and what we were most excited to see. For me, it was the Highlands, the castles, and – let’s be honest – the Highland cows. I’d been dreaming about this trip, and now I was finally here, surrounded by strangers who were quickly becoming travel companions.

Arrival in Glasgow

We pulled into Glasgow late in the evening, tired but excited. The city lights flickered through the train windows as we rolled into the station. A quick taxi ride took us straight to our hotel, which was modern, stylish, and exactly what I needed after a long day.

I checked into my room—my room—and did a little happy dance. It was cozy, quiet, and all mine. No awkward roommate introductions. No negotiating bathroom schedules. Just me, my suitcase, and the soft hum of city life outside the window.

I unpacked a few things, took a long shower, and collapsed into bed with a sense of gratitude. My first day with the group had been full of surprises, laughter, and a little luck. The kind of day that reminds you why you travel in the first place.

Reflections from the First Day

As I lay in bed, I thought about how different this trip already felt. I’ve traveled before, but this was something new, solo-ish. I had the freedom to explore on my own, but also the comfort of a group. Built-in dinner companions. Shared stories. A guide who knew where we were going and how to get there.

It was the best of both worlds.

And scoring my own room without paying extra? Perfect way to start the trip.

Snack Strategy & Train Tips

If you’re ever taking a long train ride in the UK, here’s my unsolicited advice:

• Bring snacks you actually enjoy, not just “healthy” ones
• Download a playlist or podcast ahead of time
• Don’t assume there’s Wi-Fi (there might be, but it’s not always reliable)
• Window seats are worth the effort
• If you’re prone to get carsick, try to get a forward facing seat
• Some seats are reserved so pay attention

First Impressions of Glasgow

Even though we arrived late, I got a quick glimpse of Glasgow’s energy. It felt vibrant, artistic, and slightly gritty in the best way. The kind of city that doesn’t try too hard to impress you-but ends up doing it anyway.

Next up: exploring Glasgow’s cathedral, sipping tea at a historic shop, and heading into the Highlands – complete with whiskey tastings, castle sightings, and a surprise Highland cow.

FAQ: From London to Glasgow – The Solo‑ish Kickoff

How long is the train ride from London to Glasgow? It’s about 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on the service. I (naively) thought it would be closer to two, but the scenery – rolling hills, sheep, and villages- makes the time fly.

Do I need to book my train ticket in advance? Yes, especially if you want a reserved seat. Advance tickets are usually cheaper, and you’ll thank yourself when you’re not scrambling for space with your luggage.

What’s the deal with the “single supplement” you mentioned? Many group tours charge solo travelers extra if they want their own room. In my case, it would’ve been $900. I gambled on sharing – and lucked out with my own room at no extra cost. Sometimes group dynamics work in your favor.

What should I pack for a long UK train ride?

• Snacks you actually enjoy (not just “healthy” ones you’ll regret later)
• A downloaded playlist, podcast, or audiobook (Wi‑Fi is hit or miss)
• A portable charger (trust me, you’ll need it)
• Layers, because train temps can swing from cozy to chilly

Is Glasgow worth visiting? Absolutely. Even arriving late, I felt the city’s energy – artistic, vibrant, a little gritty in the best way. It’s a perfect launchpad for exploring the Highlands, castles, and yes, Highland cows.

What is “solo‑ish” travel? It’s my sweet spot: the freedom to explore on my own terms, with the comfort of a group for logistics, shared meals, and the occasional “can you take my photo?” moment. Best of both worlds.