May I suggest some web browsing start points. Obviously these are biased to my sort of interests, and also to the North of England,- but then you are starting off in Scotland!
www.golakes.co.uk (Cumbrian lake district)
www.nationaltrust.org.uk (Historic buildings)
www.andertonboatlift.co.uk (A specific bit of industrial canal history, with links leading to other canal features)
www.nrm.org.uk (National railway museum)
Driving on the 'wrong' side isn't too bad after a while. I do it on the continent. The fact someone has moved the gear lever is a constant reminder, and its a good idea to tell your passenger it is their job to monitor what you are doing at first. Don't venture into big cities. Most have "Park and Ride" schemes; Car parks with bus services ito the centres.
