Scottish Borders & Isles
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an 8-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Scotland and England. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the grandeur of the Royal Yacht Britannia to the romantic ruins of Melrose Abbey, from the ancient Traquair House to the stunning Alnwick Castle, every day is a new adventure. Experience the charm of quaint towns, the warmth of local hospitality, and the taste of traditional cuisine. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this tour has something for everyone. Stay in comfortable hotels, enjoy guided tours, and savor delicious meals. Discover the hidden gems of Scotland and England, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Included
Full Scottish breakfast daily
4 evening meals
Traquair House with Ale tasting and Dinner
Lochcarron Mill Tour
Borders Distillery and tasting
Kitchen, Coos and Ewes Experience
Cream o’ Galloway Ice Cream tasting
Royal Yacht Brittania
Rosslyn Chapel
The Great Tapestry
Alnwick Castle
Housesteads Roman Fort
Mount Stuart
Guide
Transportation throughout by modern touring coach
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Edinburgh to Peebles
- Peebles - Arrival day
- More
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).
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Peebles
Day 2: Exploring Peebles
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).
Day 3 – Day 3: A Day of Textiles, Abbey, and Whisky in Peebles
- Hawick
- More
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).
Day 4 – Day 4: From Peebles to Dumfries via Alnwick
- Alnwick
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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.
Day 5 – Day 5: Discovering Dumfries and Galloway
- Dumfries and Galloway
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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).
Day 6 – Day 6: From Dumfries to Ayrshire via Arran
- South Ayrshire
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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.
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring the Isle of Bute from Ayrshire
Day 7: Exploring the Isle of Bute from Ayrshire
- Tower Hill Park
- More
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).
Day 8 – Day 8: Farewell
Day 8: Farewell
Our tour ends after a hearty Scottish breakfast. Please inquire about departure transfers.
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