We leave Edinburgh at 8:30am
to explore some of the most beautiful and dramatic areas of Scotland. After passing
through Glasgow, we arrive at the Bonnie Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond in the romantic
village of Luss, where we have morning coffee. After taking in the beauty, we arrive at
the historical site of the Glencoe Massacre of 1692 for a photo stop. Onward through Fort
William, Spean Bridge with a view of the Commando Memorial, then to Fort Augustus where we
have a break. This is free time to pursue the various attractions, such as visiting the
Abbey, the village, a boat cruise on Loch Ness, or a walk in the country. We leave Fort
Augustus on our return journey via beautiful Monadhliath Mountains passing Dalwhinnie,
viewing Blair Castle, Pitlochry, and Kinross to Edinburgh.
On leaving Edinburgh, our
first destination is South Queensferry to enjoy striking views of the impressive Forth
Bridges, which dominate this attractive little town. We then head past the Royal Palace of
Linlithgow, birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, and on through William Wallace and Robert
the Bruce country to Stirling, for a brief visit to 13th century Stirling Castle.
Following the picturesque Callander road, we arrive in Kilmahog for lunch and a visit to
the Woollen Mill Shop. After lunch we climb into the lovely Trossachs, home of the Scots
folklore hero Rob Roy McGregor, passing tranquil Loch Venachar and Loch Achray en route.
Our journey continues over the Duke's Pass to Aberfoyle, with a brief photo stop for some
truly awesome views. From Aberfoyle we take the High Road to the Bonnie Bonnie Banks of
Loch Lomond for an optional boat cruise or a stroll round the village of Balloch, before
heading home via the outskirts of Glasgow.
Departure
& Prices:
Departs 9am, Returns 6pm
Daily
Adults $35.00/Children $13.00 (Admission fees are extra)
Our journey north takes us via
Stirling and Callander, with a stop at Kilmahog for morning coffee. The scenery becomes
increasingly dramatic as we continue over the Pass of Leny, past Loch Lubnaig, and on to
Lochearnhead and Crianlarich, before beginning the steep climb to Rannoch Moor. At the
Weeping Glen of Glencoe, we pause to take photos and marvel at the eerie landscape. Then
it's on to Fort William for lunch and a visit to the Woollen Mill Shop. After lunch, we
follow the Caledonian Canal with photo stops at the Commando Memorial and 12th century
Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness. Look out for the famous Loch Ness Monster! On
now to the Nessie Visitor Centre at Drumnadrochit for gifts, souvenirs, and an optional
film show on the Nessie story, before beginning our homeward journey via Inverness and
Aviemore. At Pitlochry we make a convenience stop. Then it's back to Edinburgh through
beautiful Perthshire, following the course of the Silver River Tay, which is famous for
salmon fishing, oysters, and Tay pearls.
Departure
& Prices:
Departs 8:30am, Returns 8:30pm
Sundays and Wednesdays only
Adults $42.00/Children $21.00 (Admission fees are extra)
After leaving Edinburgh, we
cross the Forth Road Bridge, enjoying views of the magnificent Forth Rail Bridge into the
Kingdom of Fife. Our route takes us along the coast and around the East Neuk of Fife,
calling at either Pittenweem or Anstruther, two of the area's most picturesque fishing
villages. Arriving in the Royal Burgh of St. Andrews, we will have 2 hours at leisure to
explore the city's many attractions, from the ruins of the 13th century castle to
Scotland's oldest University. St. Andrews is also known as the home of golf, with four
courses including the world-famous Old Course and the British Golf Museum, which is well
worth a visit.
Departure
& Prices:
Departs 10am, Returns 6:30pm
Tuesdays and Fridays only
Adults $27.00/Children $14.00 (Admission fees are extra)
We leave Edinburgh travelling
south to the small Borders town of Lauder, passing magnificent Thirlstane Castle on the
way. Continuing south through rolling countryside, we make a brief stop to admire Scott's
View before arriving at peaceful Melrose Abbey. Situated in the bustling little town of
Melrose, the abbey dates from 1136 and exhibits some intricate and truly exquisite
stonework. After viewing this historical site our journey continues, passing the 2nd
century Roman Camp site, Trimontium. Our next port of call is Abbotsford House, Sir Walter
Scott's elegant mansion which boasts a delightful setting by the River Tweed. Next it's on
to Jedburgh where we have time to visit another abbey, or Mary, Queen of Scots 16th
century house. After a pleasant afternoon, we return to Edinburgh following in the
footsteps of Roman Legionnaires along the A68 highway.
Departure
& Prices:
Departs 1pm, Returns 7pm
Wednesdays and Saturdays only
Adults $23.00/Children $9.00 (Admission fees are extra)
Join us for a trip to the
Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery, the only remaining malt distillery in the Edinburgh area.
Situated in the charming East Lothian village of Pencaitland, Glenkinchie is surrounded by
the rolling hills and freshwater burns of the Lammermuirs, whose soft waters contribute to
the classic taste of this fine malt whisky. On our tour we will learn about traditional
distilling methods, watch a video, and have a chance to sample Scotland's national drink!
Next, we visit 14th century St. Mary's Church in the market town of Haddington before
driving on to North Berwick to view the amazing Bass Rock. Our return journey takes us
past Muirfield championship golf course and the remains of Dirleton Castle to Musselburgh
for some views of the Firth of Forth.
An intriguing tour that takes
in both the neoclassical splendour of the New Town, and the dramatic medieval architecture
of the Old Town. Our luxury coach takes us first to the Georgian New Town. Then we drive
through stunning Charlotte Square, arriving at St. Mary's Cathedral for a visit. From here
we head to Edinburgh Castle, where you will have time to see the Scottish Crown Jewels and
the recently returned Stone of Destiny. We then continue down The Royal Mile and through
the medieval Old Town, to arrive at the beautiful Palace of Holyroodhouse, once home to
Mary, Queen of Scots. There will be time to tour the Palace.
We make our way through the
green hills towards Peebles which stands on a lovely stretch of the River Tweed. Noted for
its tweeds and knitwear, Peebles is also a popular centre for anglers who come for the
famous Tweed salmon. We will have a stop in Peebles to give you time to shop in this small
town, then continue to Neidpath Castle which is situated in a beautiful wooded valley.
This medieval castle, with its walls nearly 12 feet thick, contains a rock-hewn well and
pit prison and two of the three original vaults. You will have time to look in the small
museum and at the tartan display. We continue now to Edinburgh Crystal where you'll have a
factory tour to learn the secrets of glass blowing, cutting, and engraving. There is time
to search for a bargain in the factory shop. Afternoon tea is served here. All entrances
and afternoon tea is included.
This is a rare chance to ride
an Icelandic horse into the Pentland Hills. Our coach makes a brief tour of the city
before making our way to the stables for a briefing and to be supplied with your transport
for the next couple of hours. It is not necessary to be an experienced rider as TRSS
(Trekking Society of Scotland Approved) instructors are on hand to assist.
The full day trekking is on
Icelandic horses. Coach departs Edinburgh after a short panoramic tour of the city and
heads towards the Pentland Hills to meet our stable ladies who will assist with
preparation of the horses for the ride. A packed lunch is provided on the full day
trekking tour.
Could you really visit
Scotland without playing a round or two of golf? Coach departs Edinburgh at 8:30am and
travels along the east coast to Whitekirk Golf Club in East Lothian. After 18 challenging
holes you will have time to relax in the clubhouse and have lunch before departing at 2pm
for an afternoon of golf in North Berwick or Gullane. Green fees and a meal is included.
Golf clubs will be supplied if required, free of charge. Suitable shoes and clothing must
be worn for golf.
We head to North Berwick or
Gullane for an afternoon of golf. The Golf Club may vary from tour to tour due to demand,
but all courses are of the highest standard. Green fees are included. Golf clubs can be
supplied free of charge, if required. Suitable shoes and clothing must be worn for golf.
Spend an hour or so in the
picturesque town of North Berwick for shopping and harbour visit, or perhaps take a boat
ride to see the birds on Bass Rock. During our journey we will visit the Museum of Flight,
which has a collection of aircraft ranging from a 1930 Puss Moth monoplane, a DH Dragon
wooden frame, to a 1944 German Koment rocket powered fighter.
Departure
& Prices:
Departs 12:30pm, Returns 5:30pm
Daily
$33.00 per person
Preston Mill & Phantassie Doocot East Lothian Scenic Tour
Tour G106
This 16th century mill is the
oldest mechanically working, water-driving meal mill in Scotland, which was last
commercially in production in 1957. Nearby is a Doocot (Dovecote) originally containing
500 birds. An added attraction is the bantams, Chinese geese, and Muscovy ducks Exhibition
Room. Coach continues with a scenic tour of East Lothian, stopping en route for tea and
biscuits.
Leaving Edinburgh we make our
way along the east coast before heading to Glenkinchie Distillery, situated near the
village of Pencaitland where you will have an escorted distillery tour followed by a wee
dram of the Scottish nectar. Next we drive through the picturesque Lammermuir Hills to
Floors Castle which displays a fine collection of art and tapestries. A light lunch will
be provided at this stop. Our next stop will be St. Boswells to see Dryburgh Abbey. Sir
Walter Scott is buried in the church. Abbotsford House is our next stop, once the home of
Sir Walter Scott and which houses Rob Roy's gun and Prince Charles' quaich. Our journey
then takes us to Locharron Cashmere & Woollen Mill with an opportunity to purchase a
bargain! Last but no least is a visit to Edinburgh Crystal, giving you the chance to learn
about the history of crystal, see a demonstration, and the opportunity to purchase a piece
of crystal from the factory shop. Entrances, lunch, and afternoon tea are included.
A quick trip across the Forth
Bridge takes us to Falkland, a pretty little town tucked away at the foot of the Lomond
Hills and one that still retains the peaceful charm of a royal burgh of yesteryear. A
stroll around the village will enable you to discover good vernacular architecture
including many lintel and marriage stones. 17th century Moncrief House on the southside of
the High Street sports a thatch of Tay reeds, a marriage lintel, and an inscribed panel
proclaiming the builder's loyalty to this monarch. The buildings of the Palace in
Renaissance style date from 1501-1541. This was a favourite seat of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Rob Roy also occupied it in 1715 after the Battle of Sheriffmuir. Replanted after World
War II, the gardens ablaze with colour include shrubs, herbaceous borders, and a more
formal garden. Beyond the garden is the Royal Tennis Court of 1539, the oldest in Britain
and still being played on. We drive next to St. Andrews arriving in time for lunch. St.
Andrews on the Fife coast is famous as a seat for learning and the home of golf. You will
have ample time to visit the Old Course, and perhaps the British Golf Museum. Our journey
back to Edinburgh takes us along the coast road. Includes entrance to the Royal Palace.
We make our way to South
Queensferry for a photo stop near the 100-year old Forth Rail Bridge. We cross the Forth
Road Bridge and head for Falkland Palace and Gardens. The gardens contain the original
Royal Tennis Court, built in 1539 and the oldest in Britain. Just a short distance gets us
to Rankeilous Park, giving you chance to see the Scottish Deer Centre, the Highland
Smokehouse, and to do some Courtyard shopping. From here we take a scenic tour of St.
Andrews before continuing to Dundee in time for late lunch. Whilst in Dundee you will have
the choice of being dropped off for a Shaws Dundee Sweet Factory visit or being dropped at
Discovery Point to board Captain Scott's famous Antarctic Exploration ship which has
returned to her home city, where she was custom built in 1901. We drive back to Edinburgh
along the coast road.
Coach will pick up at hotel at
6pm and will drive through some wonderful countryside, giving you an opportunity en route
to see the Firth of Forth, maybe a castle or two, and then take a stroll along one of our
local small town or village streets. The highlight of the tour is a four-course Gourmet
Meal at a carefully selected restaurant (wine is not included in the price).
Visiting Scotland allows you
the rare opportunity to experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality and cuisine. Join us
for a panoramic tour of the city followed by a Scottish Evening Meal and Entertainment.
Includes pipers, dancers, Scottish meal, and panoramic tour.
Do you fancy something a
little different to do in the evening? Let us take you karting. The karting circuit is
situated in East Lothian, a half-hour drive from Edinburgh. You are given two sessions of
15 minutes, transport to and from circuit, and a visit to a village pub (drinks are not
included in the cost). Coach stops at village pub on way back to Edinburgh.
Let us take you on an escorted
tour to our village pubs. The Lothians have some wonderful village pubs that have doors
open to welcome you. A light bar meal is included in the price, but you purchase your own
drinks. Coach stops at village pub on way back to Edinburgh.
If you dont want the
walk but would like to practice your golf, join us at the Golf Driving Range for a
100-ball practice. Golf club hire and balls are included in the cost. Coach stops at
village pub on way back to Edinburgh.
If you are just out for a
laugh you could leave your partner or friend with the Archery or Golf practice whilst you
have fun with Highland Games: Toss the Welly, Horseshoe throws, Bowls, Toss the Sheath,
and Toss the Caber. The winner in our group will be granted a certificate. Coach stops at
village pub on way back to Edinburgh.
An evening entertainment with
a difference! Travel by coach into East Lothian to partake in target shooting. A qualified
instructor will give a demonstration and explain how the equipment is used. Then you can
try your hand with bows and arrows at the Archery Centre, load a bolt or two in the
crossbow, and last but not least, try your hand at hitting the bull with a pellet form an
air rifle. Included in the cost are 4 bolts for the crossbow, 8 pellets for the air rifle,
and 6 arrows for the bow. Coach stops at village pub on way back to Edinburgh.
Britain is famous for its
delicious fish and chips and during this tour we will stop at a fish and chip restaurant
to have our evening meal of fish and chips, with bread and butter, tea or coffee, and
dessert. Just as the Brits like it! Once we have had plentiful sufficiency, we will
continue to see the city and its many beautiful buildings and sights.
Coach departs Edinburgh at 7pm
making its way to North Berwick which is on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth,
where this royal burgh is a popular holiday and golfing resort, with vast sandy beaches,
golf courses, putting greens, sailing, and sea angling facilities. We will spend just over
an hour in the small town letting you see the ruin of the 12th century church, the 18th
century house, and the very pleasant but small harbour. We then call at Dirleton where you
can see the castle and call into the village pub for a drink. We then continue our journey
to meet the group who has been on the Village Pubs tour. Coach stops at village pub on way
back to Edinburgh.
Departure
& Prices:
Departs 7pm
Nightly
$14.00 per person
Please note: all tours are subject to
demand and prevailing weather. Prices are quoted in US dollars, subject to change.