Land at Heathrow; collect a mid-size SUV (recommended for luggage and Highlands driving) from the airport counter so you have the car for the whole trip.
See the White Tower, Crown Jewels and the sites linked to Henry VIII’s reign — excellent intro to Tudor London. (Typical hours ~9:00–17:30; last entry earlier in close season, so arrive mid-afternoon.)
Casual first-night dinner: try The Dickens Inn at St. Katharine Docks for classic British dishes or a gastropub like The Anchor Bankside near Shakespearean areas.
Sit in the palace Orangery or a nearby riverside pub for classic fares; good to eat before returning to central London for afternoon Shakespeare sites.
Return to central London for the Globe Exhibition and guided tour to learn about Shakespeare’s theatre and performance practice. Tours and exhibition generally run through the afternoon (check Globe times online).
Experience a play at Shakespeare’s Globe (book in advance). Performances are typically evenings ~7:00–7:30 start, running 2–3 hours depending on the play. An essential Shakespearean night.
Choose a theatre-district restaurant if you want more evening shows, or try traditional British at Rules (for historic dining connected to London’s past).
Iconic prehistoric monument; visitor centre and audio guide explain the stones’ archaeology. (Open times often ~9:30–19:00 in summer; prebook timed entry.)
Long scenic drive north (~4.5–5.5 hours depending on route and stops); consider a quick stop at the Cotswolds or Stratford-upon-Avon if you want another literary tie-in en route.
Long driving day north — plan for 4–5 hours to Inverness plus stops; allow extra time for short scenic breaks and photos (approx. 4.5–5.5h driving to Inverness).
Check into a Portree hotel (suggestions: Cuillin Hills Hotel or Skye Skyns B&B). Dinner at a local seafood restaurant — fresh local produce and whisky options.
Early start to hike the Old Man of Storr — a short to moderate hike with dramatic rock pinnacles and panoramic views (parking areas may fill; best visited early).
Historic seat of Clan MacLeod with beautiful gardens and sea views (open typically 10:00–17:00). Good chance to see seals from the shore and soak up castle history.
Drive quieter country lanes looking for Highland cows and photogenic lochs; bring camera and check local farm access rules (viewing from roadside usually allowed).
Drive off Skye early and stop at Eilean Donan Castle for iconic photos. The castle grounds are a short visit (interior access varies; grounds open most of the day).
Check into an Edinburgh hotel (suggestions: Radisson Blu Royal Mile or Apex Grassmarket). Take an evening stroll up the Royal Mile for atmosphere and dinner options.