jimmyt, the Abbey where Mary, Queen of Scots stayed; are you sure she did so voluntarily ? Or is that where she was held prisoner after being forced to abdicate in favour of her (one-year-old!) son, James VI ?

NicoleC, there I was suggesting you get a cheap deal to Manchester Airport, and visit the Peak District, where men are men and sheep are terrified. But, best wishes. Incidentally, if you get a chance, get the Video / DVD of Billy Connolly's Tour of Scotland, before you travel; it has some very good shots and descriptions of the various locations and regions, as well as the Big Yin's unforgettable (and unrepeatable!) humour.