Castles, Charms & Whisky of Central Scotland

Castles, Charms & Whisky of Central Scotland

Castles, Charms & Whisky of Central Scotland

Imposing castles, vibrant cities, a vintage railway ride and whisky tasting await on this tour in and around Scotland’s Central Belt. From our base hotel we trace the footsteps of famous monarchs at mighty Stirling Castle, ride the delightful Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway along the Firth of Forth, savour a dram at a celebrated whisky distillery, and see why Edinburgh is called the ‘Athens of the North’.

 

Includes:

*  Luxury coach travel
*  4 nights accommodation with breakfast & evening meals
*  Return journey on Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway
*  Entrance to Stirling Castle
*  Entrance to Scone Palace
*  Guided tour of Glenturret Distillery with Whisky Tasting
*  Entrance to Edinburgh Castle

Imposing castles, vibrant cities, a vintage railway ride and whisky tasting await on this tour in and around Scotland’s Central Belt. From our base hotel we trace the footsteps of famous monarchs at mighty Stirling Castle, ride the delightful Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway along the Firth of Forth, savour a dram at a celebrated whisky distillery, and see why Edinburgh is called the ‘Athens of the North’.

 

Includes:

*  Luxury coach travel
*  4 nights accommodation with breakfast & evening meals
*  Return journey on Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway
*  Entrance to Stirling Castle
*  Entrance to Scone Palace
*  Guided tour of Glenturret Distillery with Whisky Tasting
*  Entrance to Edinburgh Castle

King Robert, Stirling

All 52 bedrooms are well sized and comfortable, offering a homely and welcoming feel. There is a bright, informal restaurant and a comfortable bar area with outdoor seating. There is no lift but ground-floor rooms are available.

Itinerary

Mon - This morning we depart the local area and make our way to the hotel in time for our evening meal.

Tue - We begin with a return journey on Scotland’s famous Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway. After boarding in Bo’ness, we ride a vintage steam or diesel-hauled train along the Forth Estuary to Manuel and back, watching as woodlands, waterfalls and the Avon Viaduct fly by. In the afternoon, we travel to the city of Stirling to visit Stirling Castle. One of Scotland’s most important fortifications - Mary Queen of Scots was crowned here in 1543 - we roam this mighty rocktop castle to see its Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Great Kitchens and more. Afterwards, we have free time in Stirling old town to wander its cobbled lanes, see its medieval mansions, visit its old Tolbooth courthouse and jail, or just dip into a cosy café or restaurant.

Wed - Today we head to Scone Palace to discover this grand Gothic stately home, the ancient coronation site of Scottish kings and original home of the Stone of Scone, which now resides at Edinburgh Castle. We can explore the resplendent State Rooms, view the rich porcelain, furniture and art; and learn the royal stories and secrets that swirl around this stunning place. This afternoon, we journey west to Crieff, the home of The Glenturret Distillery, Scotland’s oldest working distillery. Here, we take a fascinating tour to uncover the history, art and time-honoured traditions behind the making of single malt whisky and finish in true Scottish style - with a wee dram of the good stuff.

Thu - This morning we make our way to Edinburgh where we spend the day soaking up its incredible history and monumental sights. During the morning, we visit historic Edinburgh Castle, the impregnable fortress standing on a rocky outcrop above the old town. We head inside this mighty castle to see highlights such as St Margaret’s Chapel and Scottish Crown Jewels and savour the views over the city’s rooftops from its terraces. This afternoon gives us free time to explore this atmospheric city as we wish: perhaps delving into the wynds of the Royal Mile and enjoying the shops and restaurants along bustling Princes Street.

Fri - After breakfast we depart the homeward journey and commence the homeward journey.

 

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Imposing castles, vibrant cities, a vintage railway ride and whisky tasting await on this tour in and around Scotland’s Central Belt. From our base hotel we trace the footsteps of famous monarchs at mighty Stirling Castle, ride the delightful Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway along the Firth of Forth, savour a dram at a celebrated whisky distillery, and see why Edinburgh is called the ‘Athens of the North’.