Advice requested: North England/Scotland itinerary and accommodation

The tour looks great and if you like steam trains you'll really like that trip. My dad was like a little kid in a candy shop! Just be warned, there isn't much to Mallaig, so hopefully you don't spend too much time there. We had lunch, just walked around a bit to see the views, then we were ready to go.

That is funny about your FIL, he's probably glad you didn't mention it further.   They should be fine on the Royal Mile and Princes Street.

I hope your B&B works out, I definitely appreciate recommendations of places to stay.  My grandmother has been wanting to re-visit Edinburgh for some time and if it passes muster with you all, I'll consider booking it for us if she does make the trip.

Austengirl, I've stayed here both times I've been to Edinburgh and it's been great! http://www.cluaran-house-edinburgh.co.uk/index.html

It's within walking distance of the centre, but if you don't feel like walking there are lots of buses.