7-Night Authentic Luxury Royal Scotland Tour

Day 2

Accommodation

Exclusive Peaceful Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland

Check in policies:

Check-in is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.

The hotel has limited parking facilities on site, along with a special discounted rate at the nearby NCP Castle Terrace. Car parking is barrier controlled and located at the rear of the hotel. It can be accessed via Lynedoch Place Lane, just off Drumsheugh Place. 

Included Unique Activities

Secrets of the Royal Mile & Edinburgh Castle

Discover an Edinburgh beyond the reach of tour buses and guidebooks. This beautiful city, steeped in awe-inspiring history, has been perfectly preserved. The wynds, closes, courtyards, and homes of Edinburgh’s Old Town are a journey through time. Come with us and explore the lives of generations of Edinburgh residents, from Mary Queen of Scots and Robert Burns, to the everyday folk who spent their entire lives within the city’s medieval walls. Your storyteller will enchant you as they walk with you through the culture, politics, and everyday events. You’ll see these tales evidenced in the present as you discover the Royal Mile. From the Royal Mile, you’ll walk straight over the drawbridge to Edinburgh Castle.

The Scotch Whisky Experience Platinum Tour

• Production of Scotch whisky
• Introduction to the aromas in whisky
• Guided nosing and tasting of four contrasting single malt whiskies and one blended whisky
• Extended viewing of the World's Largest Collection of Scotch Whisky
• Boxed crystal whisky tasting glass
• Complimentary gift

Suggested Sightseeing

The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Central Scotland

On The Map: The Royal Mile is located in Old Town Edinburgh, and runs between Edinburgh Castle & Holyrood Palace.

It has a number of famous historical sites and buildings, as well as an impressive array of shops, restaurants, and pubs. (The Royal Mile is actually more than a mile by 107 yards.) There are several independently named streets that connect, making up the Royal Mile. These are Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Cannongate, and Abbey Strand. The major attractions on the Royal Mile are Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, The National Museum of Scotland, and Camera Obscura—Scotland's oldest purpose-built attraction.  

Edinburgh Castle, Central Scotland

On The Map: Edinburgh Castle is located at the top of the Royal Mile, at the west end of Edinburgh's Old Town.

From its lofty position on Castle Rock, the castle dominates the Edinburgh skyline. There has been a fortification of some kind here for thousands of years. The castle has existed through layers of time and history, and it is indeed magnificent. Having etched the city’s skyline for 800 years, the Castle is a national symbol. A vital part in Scotland’s historic struggles, the castle houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the legendary 15th century gun Mons Meg, the One O' Clock Gun, and the National War Museum of Scotland. In addition to guided tours provided by the castle stewards, there is an audio guide tour available that takes you around the castle, explains its architecture, and tells its dramatic history.

Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh, Central Scotland

On The Map: The Britannia is berthed at Ocean Terminal, Leith - just 2 miles north of the heart of Edinburgh. Majestic Tour Buses depart regularly from Waverley Bridge in the centre of town, and stop at the Royal Botanic Gardens en route.

Discover the floating palace that served the British Royal Family for over forty years from 1954. This magnificent ship has played host to some of the most famous people in the world. But, above all, she was home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family. The Queen played a large role in the design of the ship, personally approving plans and choosing the furniture and decor. She was once quoted as naming the yacht as the one place she could truly relax. Now in Edinburgh you are welcome on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of royal residences. Experience what life was like on board The Royal Yacht Britannia with a fascinating audio tour of five decks. Highlights of the tour include the elegant State Apartments, the Crew’s Quarters, the Engine Room and the stunning Royal Deck Tea Room. Complimentary audio guide in 22 languages. Open year round with free parking at Ocean Terminal. 

Old Town Edinburgh, Central Scotland

Both New Town and Old Town Edinburgh became a World Heritage Site in 1995, listed as such for their architectural and historic importance. In fact, both are an indelible part of Scotland’s story. Edinburgh’s medieval Royal Mile begins at Edinburgh Castle and runs to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The north is bordered by 18th century New Town, including Princes Street.

Beside Edinburgh’s haunting Castle, Gladstone’s Land on the Royal Mile is one of Old Town’s oldest buildings; it was a cultural hub for more than 500 years. On the second floor, you can try on Georgian fashions. Descend to the first floor, and you’re in the home owned by wealthy spice traders of the 17th century. You’ll see their living space, kitchen, stock room, and the tavern that they ran. The 1620’s Scottish Renaissance wall decorations and ceiling paintings are original. Enjoy the café in the tradition of these last traders, with tea and cake.

Day 3

Accommodation

Luxury Riverside Hotel - Inverness, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.
Car parking available for residents at £15 per car per day. 

Included Unique Activities

Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center Admission

Visit the powerfully emotive and atmospheric battlefield where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to an end. On April 16, 1746, the final Jacobite Rising came to a brutal head in one of the most harrowing battles in British history. Jacobite supporters, seeking to restore the Stuart monarchy to the British thrones, gathered to fight the Duke of Cumberland’s government troops. It was the last pitched battle on British soil and, in less than an hour, around 1,600 men were slain, 1,500 of them Jacobites. The richly researched, stimulating, and sensitive Culloden Visitor Centre, which stands beside the battlefield, features artifacts from both sides of the battle and interactive displays that reveal the background of the conflict.

It is both a monument and a guide to a pivotal day in history. You’ll experience the emotions of the Battle of Culloden in the visitor center’s 360-degree battle immersion theatre, putting you in the heart of the action. See the restored 18th-century Leanach Cottage with its beautiful, thatched roof, crafted using heather from the battlefield itself. Browse their shop for unique mementos of your trip, including jewelry crafted from the flowers of the battlefield, prints of the battlefield, and Culloden whisky.

Enroute Sightseeing

Forth Bridge, Queensferry, Central Scotland

This railway bridge, crossing the Forth estuary in Scotland, had the world’s longest spans (541 m) when it opened in 1890. It remains one of the greatest cantilever trussed bridges and continues to carry passengers and freight. Its distinctive industrial aesthetic is the result of a forthright and unadorned display of its structural components. Innovative in style, materials and scale, the Forth Bridge marks an important milestone in bridge design and construction during the period when railways came to dominate long-distance land travel.

Pitlochry, Central Scotland

On The Map: Pitlochry is located in the very heart of Scotland. Cairngorms National Park is very close by to the north, and Edinburgh less than 1.5 hours to the south via the A9 road.

When Queen Victoria fell in love with the Highlands of Scotland, Pitlochry was a quiet village surrounded by the pine-covered hills of the Central Highlands. It became famous when she named it one of the finest resorts in Europe, and visitors began arriving to discover the magic of the Highlands. This vibrant town in the wooded valley of the River Tummel runs along a main street that’s lined with shops and eating places. It bustles with visitors, but relax and go with the flow. Look behind the busy-ness, and you’ll see the charming, Highland Victorian town that is still Pitlochry. Pitlochry is farther from the sea than any other place in Scotland, and it makes a good base for exploring the surrounding scenery, which is spectacular.

Blair Castle, Pitlochry, Central Scotland

On The Map: Blair Castle is located in Perthshire in the centre of Scotland, just north of Pitlochry Town. The castle is accessed via the main A9 road that connects the towns of Inverness (to the north), and Pitlochry & Perth (to the south).

The only man in Europe still allowed to have a private army is the Duke of Atholl, who resides at Blair Castle! The sight of his magnificent, white castle on the main road north will stop you in your tracks. The oldest part of the castle was built in 1269.  During the Jacobite campaigns, it was designed anew, and the turrets were added.  A brilliant stroke of genius. The ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl and home to the Atholl Highlanders, Blair Castle stands proudly against the magnificent backdrop of Highland Perthshire. With collections that fill over 30 rooms, there are few historic homes in Britain that can claim to have more comprehensive family treasures than Blair Castle, which portrays Scottish life over 700 years. After a tour of the castle you can enjoy the variety and tranquility of the grounds and gardens which form part of one of Scotland's great estates.

Cairngorms National Park, Central Scotland

On The Map: The Cairngorms is Scotland’s largest National Park, and it occupies a huge region in the northeast. The nearest major town is Aberdeen to the east, but Cairngorms NP is central to all of Scotland's major cities.

The Cairngorms have the highest, rugged mountain range in Britain, rising to 4,296 feet. This country is heaven for walkers, skiers, rock climbers, and nature lovers. A number of rare bird species are attracted to the thriving, unusual alpine flora. Rock-climbers and skiers particularly love the challenge of the Cairngorms. Its craggy sides attract climbers from around the world—they practice at the Cairngorms before trips to the Himalayas!

During the summer, a funicular railway climbs Cairngorm. The views over the Spey Valley are spectacular. There’s also a steam railway, dating from 1863, that runs from Aviemore and Broomhila. This is a great way to get up-close to nature if you’re not into the thrills-and-chills of mountain sports. Also, many estates in the valley supplement their income by introducing visitors to the Highlands. See Britain’s only herd of reindeer and walk among them. The Cairngorm Reindeer Center is happy to introduce you to these lovely animals. With mixed woodlands at the base, and the summit forming a sub-polar plateau, the Cairngorms present a huge variety of flora. Ancient Caledonian pines, once common in the area, still survive in Abernathy Forest. Fragile and flourishing, Arctic flowers thrive in the heights.

Overnight Location

Inverness, Highlands

On The Map:  Inverness is located on Scotland's central northern coast. The town is accessed via the A9 road from the southeast (Cairngorms National Park), A82 from the southwest (Loch Ness), and A96 from northeast Speyside.

Inverness is the gateway and true capital of the Highlands. It is also one of the Highland’s oldest settlements, and all roads still lead to the Highland’s center. Inverness feels like a compact town, but with 50,000 people it has the vibrant attitude of a lovely city. Let your imagination run wild and take a ghost tour, led by an 18th century ghost, complete with period costume. Expect to hear tales of the city’s past, including ghosts, witches, murders, and spells.

Stroll along the River Ness, or cruise on the Moray Firth, searching out bottlenose dolphins. (It is very peaceful, especially if you’ve just been ghost-hunting.) The River Ness flows through Inverness, and salmon fishermen come during the summer for a fine catch. Inverness Castle is perched high above the city, a gorgeous Victorian built of red sandstone. Just below the castle is the museum and art gallery which runs exhibitions and workshops for kids. The main shopping area fans out from there in three directions, and it includes a lively gathering place where pipers and other musicians gather and make music. 

Day 4

Accommodation

Luxury Riverside Hotel - Inverness, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.
Car parking available for residents at £15 per car per day. 

Suggested Sightseeing

The Black Isle, Inverness, Highlands

On The Map: The Black Isle is located just north of Inverness in the Highlands of Northern Scotland. Construction of the Kessock Bridge (completed in 1982 and part of the A9 road) has greatly aided to access to the peninsula. Despite its name, the Black Isle is not an island, but a peninsula, surrounded on three sides by water. The description ‘Black’ is just as misleading as Isle, and no one knows where the name originated. There are however a number of theories, the most colourful relating to the practice of black arts and witchcraft in mediaeval times. About 23 miles long by 9 miles wide at its broadest point, a drive around the peninsula, particularly if spending a few nights in Inverness, is well worth the effort. One of the Isle’s highlights is the village of Cromarty, poised on the tip of the peninsula. Probably the Highlands' best preserved historic town, Cromarty offers a wealth of attractions: sandy beaches, unusual architecture, Bottlenose Dolphins, pleasant eateries, and even a multi-award winning museum. Much of the village is original 18th century design, with little influence by modern-day architecture. The small fishing villages of Fortrose, Rosemarkie and Avoch are also highlights, located on the east coast of the Black Isle. Just across the water is the massive and imposing Fort George, built after the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion, in the hope of deterring any further unrest among the Highland Clans.

Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Highlands

On The Map: Cawdor Castle is located in the north of Scotland. The castle is accessed via the B9090 road whichintersects with the main A96, northeast of Inverness Town.

Cawdor Castle has been the home of the Thanes of Cawdor since its construction in 1370. Originally consisting only of its central tower, the current structure is a result of significant additions in the 15th, 17th & 19th centuries. Well known for its fictional association with Shakespeare's Macbeth, Cawdor is also famed for its magnificent gardens, portions of which are over 300 years old. After you step inside, this other-worldly castle makes historical facts pale. Cawdor Castle fulfills all Shakespearean thoughts of love and tragedy. With its original keep, built in 1454, a drawbridge, ancient yew tree and enough weapons to start an uprising, this castle is the stuff of legend. The garden and estate, complete with maze, are equally remarkable. Who could ask for anything more? Cawdor Castle is open to the public between May & September each year.

Speyside, The Whisky Triangle, Elgin, North East

On The Map: Speyside is a name that is associated with the area between the towns of Elgin, Keith and Grantown, in the northeast of Scotland. The area is just about one hour drive east of the city of Inverness.

Speyside is a gentle area that feels more dreamlike than parts of everyday life. Signposts often read like a well-stocked bar! Whisky, a word derived from the Gaelic ‘uisce beatha’, means “water of life”. It has been distilled here, legally and otherwise, for more than 600 years. (The first record of making whisky in Scotland was in 1494.) Whether the Scots took it to Ireland, or the Irish brought it with them to Scotland in the 6th or 7th century, isn’t clear. There are eight distilleries, mostly founded in the early 18th century, linked by the signposted Malt Whisky Trail. Glen Grant, Cardhu, Strathisia, Glenlivet, Benromach, Dallas Dhu, Glen Moray, and Glenfiddich. Each offers guided tours and whisky tastings, and opening times and admission fees vary. But come to Speyside even if whisky is not on your agenda. This area is romantic and the River Spey is gorgeous.

Day 5

Accommodation

Country Castle Hotel - Fort William, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Included Unique Activities

Inspiration Loch Ness Cruise

Cruise in comfort on Loch Ness. The staff is friendly and helpful. This cruise provides magnificent views of Urquhart Castle, sailing as far as Urquhart Castle near Drumnadrochit, which is approximately halfway down Loch Ness. You'll sail through the deepest part of this famous Loch; if you happen to spot Nessie, be sure to remain very quiet and take pictures!

Enroute Sightseeing

Loch Ness, Highlands

On The Map: Loch Ness is a long stretch of freshwater, extending 23 miles southwest of Inverness.

Loch Ness holds more water than all the lakes and reservoirs in the U.K. combined. During the Ice Age, glaciers deepened a trench halfway through Scotland, creating a long glen of steep, forested mountains and mysterious lochs. Castles and forts abound here, bearing witness to the Great Glen’s strategic importance. There is, of course, the elusive Loch Ness monster who still attracts scientific interest. Loch Ness is almost 1,000 feet deep and has unusually dark water, owing to the high peat content of the surrounding soil. This is an immensely atmospheric loch, surrounded by mountains, castles, abbey ruins, and several enchanting villages. The fame of Loch Ness is well-deserved.

Urquhart Castle, Highlands

On The Map: Urquhart Castle is located on the western shore of Loch Ness in the northern Highlands of Scotland. The castle is approx. 16 miles southeast of Inverness on the main A82 road, in close proximity to the village of Drumnadrochit.

Wild natural beauty and 1,000 years of history - Urquhart Castle offers a taste of the Highlands at their most dramatic. Magnificently sited, overlooking Loch Ness, Urquhart is one of the largest castles in Scotland, and remains an impressive stronghold despite its ruinous state. Urquhart witnessed considerable conflict throughout its 500 years as a medieval fortress and its history from the 13th to 17th centuries was particularly bloody. Following Edward I’s invasion, it fell into English hands and was then reclaimed and lost again. In the 14th century, it figured prominently in the Scots’ struggle for independence and came under the control of Robert the Bruce after he became King of Scots. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle and glen were frequently raided from the west by the ambitious MacDonald Lords of the Isles, before ultimately falling into decay in 1689. The castle’s history and that of its noble families – Durward, MacDonald and Grant - is told in the exhibition and audio-visual display in the new visitor centre. The centre features an outstanding array of medieval artefacts found at the castle. The visitor centre contains retail, interpretation area, audio-visual presentation and tearoom and toilets on one level. The centre's veranda offers stunning views of the loch.

Overnight Location

Fort William, Highlands

On The Map: Fort William sits at the head of Loch Linnhe, and the foot of the Great Glen and snow-peaked Ben Nevis. The major A82 road runs through town connecting it with Glasgow to the south & Inverness to the northeast.

Fort William got its name from the original fort built here in 1650 to keep the Highland clans in order. It's a convenient touring base for the Northwest of Scotland, and a popular hub for walkers, mountaineers, and scenery lovers of every type. Its appeal is not that of a destination town, but rather its location to some of the most stunning natural beauty in Scotland. Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest, and most rugged is the most obvious draw, but it's certainly not all. The West Highland Museum on Cameron Square exhibits the 18th century “Secret Portrait of Prince Charles.” This was done when all paintings of Stuarts were completed in obscure swirls so the viewer didn’t get into trouble for having any connection, at all, to the Stuart side of the Royal family. Just northeast of town is the acclaimed “Treasures of the Earth,” one of Europe’s finest collections of crystals and gemstones. The “Underwater Center,” on the banks of Loch Linnhe, is the world’s leading diving instruction and training center. Also north of town are the impressive ruins of Inverlochy Castle.

Inverness, Highlands

On The Map:  Inverness is located on Scotland's central northern coast. The town is accessed via the A9 road from the southeast (Cairngorms National Park), A82 from the southwest (Loch Ness), and A96 from northeast Speyside.

Inverness is the gateway and true capital of the Highlands. It is also one of the Highland’s oldest settlements, and all roads still lead to the Highland’s center. Inverness feels like a compact town, but with 50,000 people it has the vibrant attitude of a lovely city. Let your imagination run wild and take a ghost tour, led by an 18th century ghost, complete with period costume. Expect to hear tales of the city’s past, including ghosts, witches, murders, and spells.

Stroll along the River Ness, or cruise on the Moray Firth, searching out bottlenose dolphins. (It is very peaceful, especially if you’ve just been ghost-hunting.) The River Ness flows through Inverness, and salmon fishermen come during the summer for a fine catch. Inverness Castle is perched high above the city, a gorgeous Victorian built of red sandstone. Just below the castle is the museum and art gallery which runs exhibitions and workshops for kids. The main shopping area fans out from there in three directions, and it includes a lively gathering place where pipers and other musicians gather and make music. 

Day 6

Accommodation

Country Castle Hotel - Fort William, Highlands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Included Unique Activities

Jacobite Steam Train - First Class Roundtrip with High Tea

Described as one of the great railway journeys of the world, this 84 mile round trip takes you past a list of impressive extremes. Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it visits Britain's most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig, and passes close to the deepest freshwater loch in Britain - Loch Morar. The highlight of the journey for movie fans is crossing the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct. The scene (pictured) has received worldwide fame, owing to its use in the Harry Potter movies. In the second movie (Chamber of Secrets) Harry & Ron swoop and dive in their flying Ford Anglia, as the train crosses the viaduct - a particularly memorable scene! Some of the carriages of the train are those actually used in the Harry Potter films. Beyond the viaduct, the train next stops in the charming town of Glenfinnan. After Glenfinnan are the beautiful villages of Lochailort, Arisaig, Morar and Mallaig. When passing Morar, keep an eye out for the silvery beaches used in the films 'Highlander' and 'Local Hero'.

First Class Service: 1st class seats aboard the Jacobite Express are more comfortable and larger than the standard seats, giving you extra leg room. The carriage is more luxurious than the standard carriages with nicer furnishings. Please note: First Class seating is only available for a roundtrip ticket. Your First Class ticket also includes High Tea. The High Teas are generally served around Glenfinnan on the Outward journey from Fort William on the morning trip and the afternoon trip.

High Tea Details: A freshly prepared assortment of sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients. Delightful savoury and sweet scone, served with Scottish artisan strawberry preserve, Scottish butter and clotted cream. Followed by a selection of mouth watering homemade cakes. Coffee or Tea. Vegetarian, Gluten Free or Vegan options are available. Please let us know if you require this at booking. 

Suggested Sightseeing

Fort William, Highlands

On The Map: Fort William sits at the head of Loch Linnhe, and the foot of the Great Glen and snow-peaked Ben Nevis. The major A82 road runs through town connecting it with Glasgow to the south & Inverness to the northeast.

Fort William got its name from the original fort built here in 1650 to keep the Highland clans in order. It's a convenient touring base for the Northwest of Scotland, and a popular hub for walkers, mountaineers, and scenery lovers of every type. Its appeal is not that of a destination town, but rather its location to some of the most stunning natural beauty in Scotland. Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest, and most rugged is the most obvious draw, but it's certainly not all. The West Highland Museum on Cameron Square exhibits the 18th century “Secret Portrait of Prince Charles.” This was done when all paintings of Stuarts were completed in obscure swirls so the viewer didn’t get into trouble for having any connection, at all, to the Stuart side of the Royal family. Just northeast of town is the acclaimed “Treasures of the Earth,” one of Europe’s finest collections of crystals and gemstones. The “Underwater Center,” on the banks of Loch Linnhe, is the world’s leading diving instruction and training center. Also north of town are the impressive ruins of Inverlochy Castle.

Day 7

Accommodation

Exceptional Castle Hotel - Dunblane, Stirling, Central Scotland

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Stirling Castle Admission

Perched on a rocky crag above the town, today you will visit magnificent Stirling Castle. This castle is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland. Stirling occupied a key position in Scotland’s battle for independence. Seven battlefields can be seen from the castle, and the 220-foot Wallace Monument at Abbey Craig is a memorial to William Wallace’s defeat of the British in 1297 at Stirling Bridge. (Wallace is the Scottish hero upon whom the movie “Braveheart” is based.) Generations of Scotland’s royalty gathered at Stirling Castle to revel in its impressive buildings, superb sculptures, fine craftsmanship, and beautiful gardens. You have the opportunity to do that, too. Highlights include The Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Regimental Museum of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, The Great Kitchens, and the Tapestry Studio. 

Suggested Sightseeing

Stirling, Central Scotland

On The Map: Stirling is located in Central Scotland, less than 45 minutes on the M80/A80 from Glasgow to the southwest and 1 hour on the M9 motorway from Edinburgh to the southeast.

Stirling is a taste of both the Lowlands and the Highlands. It is packed with castles and tales of people who are larger than life, and it is blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty. “Hold Stirling and you control the entire country…” This simple strategy has ensured that a castle, or some sort of fortification, has existed here in Scotland since prehistoric times. Stirling is associated with King Arthur, and some believe it was the locale for Camelot.

In recorded history, we know that Alexander I dedicated a chapel here. Below the impressive Stirling Castle, Old Town Stirling is protected by 16th century walls built to keep Mary, Queen of Scots, safe from Henry VIII. And, it was here that the infant James VI was crowned in 1567. This area was also home to Rob Roy, whose exploits still echo through the Highlands. There is something about Stirling that feels like a fairy tale. Its sense of time is similar to Edinburgh, but the hustle and bustle is turned down. With its winding cobblestone streets, and the old town clinging to the slopes beneath the castle, you can feel the layers of time and heroism. Take a quiet walk in the moonlight on Stirling’s magic streets.  It’s an experience to be savored.

Battle of Bannockburn, Stirling, Central Scotland

On The Map: The site of the Battle of Bannockburn is located just 2 miles south of the city of Stirling in central Scotland. To access the site from the M9/M80 motorways, take Junction 9 onto the A872 road.

Stirling Castle was central to the defence of the main route into northern Scotland, and between 1296 and 1314 it changed hands five times! In 1314, the castle was held by a garrison of King Edward II’s troops, and besieged by the Scots. Edward II marched rapidly northwards to relieve the garrison and Robert the Bruce chose a site at the crossing of the Bannock Burn to stop the advance of Edward’s army. The Battle of Bannockburn was a turning point for the beleaguered Scots.  Facing a thorough onslaught by the English in 1314, Robert the Bruce led the Scots to an astonishing victory. The Scots won their independence, their nation, and their pride. In 1329, in large part due to this battle, Scottish independence was ratified by the Pope. The sense of history here is tangible and Bannockburn is still a focus for Scottish pride today. You can find out what inspired this great Scottish victory at the Bannockburn Heritage Centre. Don't miss the gripping new film depicting the dramatic events of June 1314, as well as walking the battlefield under the gaze of Robert the Bruce himself, immortalised in a statue by Pilkington Jackson (pictured).

Enroute Sightseeing

Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Central Scotland

On The Map: Loch Lomond is located in Central Scotland, approximately 20 miles northwest of Glasgow. The main A82 road runs along the west shore of the lake en route to Fort William and beyond to Inverness. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, comprising 720 square miles, became Scotland’s first National Park in 2002. Originally made famous by the novels of Sir Walter Scott in the early 1800’s, the Trossachs have been enjoyed as the “Highlands in Miniature” by travelers since that time. For two centuries, people have come here to walk, climb, cycle and sail, to breathe fresh clean air, and immerse themselves in the wonder of nature. The landscape ranges from the uplands of Breadalbane to the sea lochs of Argyll. Included within its area is the whole of Scotland's largest loch, Loch Lomond. The northern end of the loch is deep and narrow, with mountains on either side, including Ben Lomond. The southern half of the loch is more pastoral and home to many islands. The surrounding mountainous areas include 21 ‘Munros’ (individual mountains over 3000ft); 20 ‘Corbetts’ (individual mountains over 2,500ft); and two forest parks. For the very best of the Trossachs, consider the route of the Duke’s Pass from Aberfoyle to Loch Katrine.

Overnight Location

Dunblane, Stirling, Central Scotland

On The Map: Dunblane is located just five miles north of Stirling off the M9 motorway

Dunblane is a properous town boasting one of Scotland's quaintest cathedrals. New roads and railway services have resulted in development and an influx of middle-class commuters but the centre of Dunblane traversed by Allan Water is still charming. The old town centre retains a number of historic buildings in addition to the cathedral, including the 17th-century Leighton Library, the oldest private library in Scotland open to the public on selected days in summer. A well-preserved late medieval town-house nearby houses a local history museum, which is free, but only open in summer. A modern extension has recently been completed within its interior courtyard to provide additional exhibition space and allow disabled access.

Day 8

Depart From

Depart from Edinburgh Airport, Central Scotland

Return to Edinburgh Airport 3 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.

Edinburgh is a small airport, but offers a surprisingly large array of shops and restaurants. If you have some time on your hands after check-in and security, you won't be bored!