Scottish Borders & Isles

We start our journey with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, where we'll get a glimpse of royal life on this former floating palace. We then head south to the Scottish Borders, a region rich in history and natural beauty. Here, we'll explore Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th-century architectural gem. After a day of exploration, we'll enjoy a welcome dinner at our hotel, The Hydro Hotel in Peebles (or similar).

Our day begins with a visit to Abbotsford House, the extraordinary home of 19th-century novelist Sir Walter Scott. Next, we'll explore The Great Tapestry of Scotland, which beautifully depicts the country's history and culture. Our final stop is Traquair House, the oldest inhabited house in Scotland, where we'll enjoy a guided tour, ale tasting, and a sumptuous dinner. We'll spend the night at The Hydro Hotel in Peebles (or similar).

We start the day with a visit to Melrose Abbey, one of the most romantic ruins in Britain. Then, we'll head to Lochcarron of Scotland for a guided tour that offers insight into tartan design and manufacturing. Our next stop is the Borders Distillery, the first Scotch Whisky Distillery in the Scottish Borders since 1837. After a tour, we'll enjoy a wee dram. The evening is free for you to explore and dine at your leisure. We'll spend the night at The Hydro Hotel in Peebles (or similar).

Today, we cross the border to England, where we'll visit Alnwick Castle and Gardens, the second largest inhabited castle in the UK. We'll then travel west to Housesteads Roman Fort, a relic of the Roman Empire, where we can walk the barrack blocks and admire the stunning panoramic views. We'll then return to Scotland and head to our hotel, The Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries (or similar), where we'll enjoy dinner and spend the night.

Today, we'll explore Dumfries and Galloway. We'll start at Kitchen, Coos and Ewes, where we'll get up close with Highland Cows and Beltex sheep, followed by a sheep dog presentation. We'll then visit one of the charming harbour towns along the River Dee. Our next stop is Cream o' Galloway, an award-winning dairy farm, where we'll enjoy an ice cream tasting. We'll end the day with dinner and an overnight stay at The Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries (or similar).

We'll start early today as we head to Ardrossan to catch a ferry to Arran, often referred to as 'Scotland in miniature'. We'll tour the island, visiting Lochranza Castle, the Standing Stones at Machrie Moor, and Goatfell, Arran's highest hill. We'll also have some free time in Brodick, where you might want to try some Arran Cheese or shop at Arran Aromatics. We'll then ferry back to the mainland and head to our hotel, The Gailes Hotel & Spa in Ayrshire (or similar), for the night.

Today, we'll take a 40-minute ferry ride to the Isle of Bute, known for its mild climate and exotic plants. We'll visit Mount Stuart, a spectacularly extravagant mansion designed by the 3rd Marquess of Bute, the richest man in Britain. After a guided tour, you'll have free time in Rothesay before we sail back to the mainland. We'll end the day with dinner and an overnight stay at The Gailes Hotel & Spa in Ayrshire (or similar).

Our tour ends after a hearty Scottish breakfast. Please inquire about departure transfers.