Car loaded with stuff to entertain during time away includes bikes*2, golf clubs, musical instruments, walking gear etc. Already full and thats only 2 of us.
S&A1 set off to collect E&A2. (Who were ready on time .. a good sign!) We managed to pack all stuff for 4 and leave an hour earlier than planned. (Another good sign).
For us Southern folk a trip to Scotland is always a long one. We have found it best to start in the evening after work. The first trip should include at least a stop for some food and should preferably include our first trip to an establishment serving alcohol of some kind. In the past we have been disappointed by some dodgy McDonald Burgers etc from Motorway services and by night time porters in hotels trying to operate the bar. This time we took a slightly up market approach (not very much up market but better value!)
We managed to get just south of Birmingham for our first stop at a Harvester. This combined the 2 essential ingredients of food and drink in a "Harvester" Meal.
After we had all been well fed and watered,... A1 took the wheel and while 3 slept we were transported to Lancaster for an overnight stop at the Hotel at the Motorway services. It was late when we arrived and all we needed was a bed so we were happy. Thanks again to A1 for one of the longest drives of the trip with only the sound of snoring for company.