DISTINCTLY SCOTLAND
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12-Day Tour
Exploring the best of the United Kingdom!
London - Windsor Castle - Stonehenge
Bath - Cotswolds - Shakespeare country
PLUS
York - Lake District - Edinburgh
and Scottish Highlands!
A 12-Day Ready-to-Book tour, personally created by Iain, giving you an extensive UK Tour from London, through England to Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands.
12 Days starting from $7,999pp
High-season (June – August) starting from $8,999pp
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Based upon 4 persons per tour, (double occupancy rooms. Not including airfare).
The cost includes quality hotel accommodation, (with breakfast each day), entrances to attractions, (including Spirit of Scotland Show) and ferry rides. Tips are not included. Costs are subject to price changes and availability, until the tour deposit paid. {Contact us for great deals on other guest numbers}
Tour at a Glance:
Day 1
Day 2
Windsor Castle
Stonehenge - Bath
Day 3
Cotswolds
Stratford on Avon
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 10
Day 8
Day 9
Day 11
Day 12
Chatsworth House
Chesterfield
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Scottish Borders
Edinburgh
St Andrews
Glamis Castle
Edinburgh
Explore
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Balmoral Castle Inverness
Culloden
Loch Ness
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Skye Tour
Ferry to Ft William
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Stirling Castle
Edinburgh
We recommend you enjoy some days in London before our tour starts, to fully enjoy this great city. We can arrange for your tour guide to accompany you around London prior to starting the main tour. {contact us for costs}.
City of York
Exploration
Yorkshire Dales
Lake District
Day 1
London to Bath
Your Driver/Guide will meet you at your London hotel to drive you to our first stop, Windsor Castle for a short tour of our King's favourite residence. Then on to the mysterious Stonehenge, where you will have a chance to walk around the ancient stones. and perhaps some lunch. In the afternoon we take a glorious drive to the City of Bath. Here you can 'take the waters' and thrill at the glorious Georgian architecture. o/n GAINSBOROUGH SPA
Stonehenge
Bath
Windsor Castle
12-Day Tour full details:
The historic City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site has one of the best examples of 18th century architecture, known as Neo-Classical or Georgian. You will see the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge, which is located by the River Avon.
The Roman Baths, a 2000 year old and well-preserved ancient bathing complex dispenses foul tasting water, (which apparently is good for you!) You can decide if you dare!
Bath was also during the 19th century the home of the famous author Jane Austen.
Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a prehistoric monument shrouded in mystery. Comprising massive standing stones arranged in a circular formation, it's believed to have been constructed around 3000 BC. You will explore the site's rich history through informative exhibits and audio guides, learning about its significance in ancient rituals, astronomy, and cultural practices.
Stonehenge's enigmatic allure will totally captivate you.
Twice a year on the Winter and Summer Solstices, the Druids gather all night for their spiritual experiences...!
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Day 2
Cotswolds to Stratford - Upon - Avon
We move from Bath to the tranquil Cotswolds, a region of unparalleled natural beauty and timeless charm. First stop is Castle Combe with its honey-coloured stone cottages and gorgeous pubs. This where Steven Spielberg filmed part of 'War Horse' as it typified an old English village. Moreton-on Marsh next, and again, a quintissentially timeless country village. Then on to the home of the 'Bard' himself, William Shakespeare, and Stratford - Upon - Avon. You will see the house he was born in and the house he shared with his wife, Anne Hathaway. o/n INDIGO HOTEL
William Shakespeare
Chatsworth House
Day 3
Chatsworth House to Chesterfield
Continuing our English historical tour we head for the ancestral seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Chatsworth House. Located in the heart of the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire, is one of the country's most magnificent stately homes, with stunning landscaped gardens and rolling parkland. Built in the 16th century, Chatsworth House has been home to the Cavendish family for over 500 years. The house itself is a masterpiece of architecture and featured in the Kiera Knightley movie 'Pride anf Prejudice'. You will overnight in historic Chesterfield.
o/n RINGWOOD HOTEL & SPA
Day 4
City of York
Today we are exploring York. This captivating city renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere is a must when visiting the UK.
At its heart stands York Minster, an iconic Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline with its majestic spires and intricate stained glass windows. We will explore the winding streets of the city centre, known as the 'Shambles', where medieval buildings, charming shops, and quaint tea rooms beckon you to wander and discover. We can walk along the ancient city walls for panoramic views of York's historic landmarks, including Clifford's Tower and the River Ouse. There are great museums like the Jorvik Viking Centre and York Castle Museum, which bring to life York's Roman, Viking, and medieval heritage. You can try the traditional Yorkshire puddings and afternoon tea in one of the city's many eateries. You will embark upon a cruise along the River Ouse, where you will experience the city's timeless charm and discover why the historic City of York is a must-visit destination in England. o/n INDIGO HOTEL
River Ouse
York Minster
PIC OF STORRS HALL HOTEL
Lake Windermere
Day 5
Yorkshire Dales - Lake District
Today we cross the beautiful and rugged Yorkshire Dales to the county of Cumbria, wherein lies the breathtaking Lake District.
With its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a diverse range of experiences to captivate visitors of all ages.
We will take a leisurely drive through this quiet spot of England to Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England. Here you can either board a leisurely cruise or enjoy one of the quaint tearooms or restaurants overlooking the lake. The unique atmosphere amongst the rolling hills will I am sure inspire in you the understanding as to why this iconic destination has inspired poets and artists for centuries.
The famous mountain peaks are Scafell Pike and Helvellyn can be enjoyed... in our case from the ground!
We can arrange a visit to the historic homes of renowned poets like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, or explore the quaint villages of Grasmere and Hawkshead, where traditional pubs, tearooms, and artisan shops await.
Your hotel is the magnificent Storrs Hall, beautifully set on a peninsula into the lake, with its own jetty.
o/n STORRS HALL HOTEL
o/n OCEAN MIST HOTEL
We leave the Lakes and cross the border with Scotland at Gretna Green. Here we will see where runaway kids could get married at 16 years of age, over the anvil! Next stop is historic Melrose, nestled in the Scottish Borders. Its roots trace back to the 12th century when the Melrose Abbey was founded by King David I. The town flourished as a centre of religious and cultural significance. We will tour Melrose Abbey, with its intricate architecture and experience the quaint timeless town that surrounds the Abbey. Before we get to Edinburgh we will stop at Roslin Chapel. Recently made famous by Tom Hanks in the movie Da Vinci Code, and a pilgrimage for all Freemasons.
Melrose Abbey
Day 6
Scottish Borders - Edinburgh
Day 7
Edinburgh!
Day 7
We start our Edinburgh day of exploration with a motor tour of the City including the New and Old Towns. Iain will explain the fascinating history of this architectural jewel! How Edinburgh dramatically changed with the Union with England, and how the giants of the 'Enlightenment' in 18th century Edinburgh changed the world!
Iain will take you on a personal Walking tour of the Royal Mile. You will see all of the amazing historical sights, including Edinburgh Castle, The Grassmarket and Greyfriar's Churchyard. There is also the famous 'Harry Potter Street' (Victoria Street or Diagon Alley), Camera Obscura and the Scotch Whisky Experience. There are also numberous attractions and gift shops can be decided on the day.
In the evening its off to the Royal College of Surgeons. not to have an operation, but this is the lovely venue of the 'Spirit of Scotland Show'. You will enjoy a Scottish themed evening of festivities, including: A welcome piper in full Highland regalia, 4-Course dinner, (including haggis), bagpipers, Scottish country dancers, and a complimentary dram of whisky! A truly spectacular end to a great day in Scotland's Capital!
o/n OCEAN MIST HOTEL
18th & 1st Fairways St Andrews 'Old Course'
Day 8
St Andrews - Glamis Castle
o/n DALMUNZIE HOTEL
Glamis Castle is the private home of the Earl of Strathmore and was the childhood home to the Queen Mother, the King's grandmother. An incredibly historic and impressive royal residence that is set in beautiful and extensive grounds.
We leave Glamis to enter the Highlands and your lovely Highland hotel.
Today we head to the home of Golf, St Andrews. We will take the scenic route along the coastal fishing villages in the East Neuk of Fife, stopping at Lundin Links, Crail and Anstruther.
St Andrews is a must visit for golfers worldwide, as the game started here, and is home to the oldest golf club in the world, 'The Royal and Ancient'. The town also has the oldest University in Scotland, where Prince William met Catherine. We will show you which cafe was the venue of their first date!
Day 9
Balmoral Castle - Inverness
Today we drive into the heart of the Grampian Mountains past the Glenshee Ski Centre and over the high peaks towards Ballater and His Majesty the King's summer residence, historic Balmoral Castle, nestled in the highlands beside the mighty River Dee.
Balmoral has been the cherished residence of the UK Royals ever since it was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in the 19th century. It has been the place where Royals get privacy and can 'switch off', and is visited by them each summer. We will take a tour of the recently opened apartments. Afterwards, it is up to the highest road in Scotland; The Cock Bridge to Tomintoul Road, which passes the Lecht ski centre. This will provide you with great panoramic views of the Cairngorms Mountain Range and an opportunity to spot deer, birds of prey, or perhaps a Golden Eagle or Red Kite.​
Now to Speyside. This is the main whisky producing area of Scotland and home to numberous world famous brands: Macallan, Glenfiddich, Knockando... plus many, many other famous names. Let us know which one you wish to visit. There is also the largest cooperage in the UK, with daily demonstrations of barrel making.​ After your tour and a wee dram, we head north following the River Spey to the coast and the town of Elgin, by the Moray Firth. Then on past Nairn to the Capital of the Highlands, Inverness. o/n GLEN MOHR HOTEL
Balmoral Castle
Jacobite dress
Day 10
Culloden - Loch Ness - Fort Augustus
Inverness is the 'Capital of the Highlands' and sits at the mouth of the River Ness at the northern end of the 'Great Glen', (a fault line that runs from Fort William to Inverness). In Gaelic 'inver' means 'mouth of', and that's how Inverness got it's name.
A commercial and cultural centre of the Highlands it is steeped in 'Jacobite' history.
In 1746, the last battle to be fought on British soil was The Battle of Culloden. This fight brutally ended the Jacobite Rebellion led by Charles Edward Stuart, better known as "Bonnie' Prince Charlie. Today we visit the actual location of this fierce battle, which now has an excellent, and award winning visitor experience.
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Loch Ness
We'll also see if we can spot the 'Loch Ness Monster' by driving down to Loch Ness. It holds the largest volume of water of any lake in the United Kingdom, and deep too, giving rise to this world famous legend! (bring your camera)!
We overnight at Fort Augustus on Loch Ness.
o/n LOVAT HOTEL
Did you spot the MONSTER!!
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Day 11 Skye Tour - Ferry to Ft William
Cuillin Mountains
Portree, Isle of Skye
After breakfast our journey to Skye starts. We drive through the mighty Glen Garry to a vantage point overlooking Loch Claunie and stunning views towards Loch Hourn. We'll drive down the glen, past the'7 Sisters' mountain range leading to Loch Duart, a salt water sea loch.
At the head of this loch sits Eilean Donan Castle. Situated on a small tidal island at the confluence of three sea lochs - Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh.
Eilean Donan Castle commands a strategic position at the gateway to the Isle of Skye and the Western Highlands.​ In 1719, during one of the many Jacobite uprisings, Eilean Donan Castle was besieged and partially destroyed by government forces. The castle lay in ruins for nearly two centuries until it was restored to its former glory in the early 20th century by Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap, a descendant of the Macrae clan. You'll find that he made a really rather good job of refurbishing it!
Eilean Donan Castle
We now cross the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh to begin our island tour. Heading to the capital Portree and north to the Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr: This iconic rock formation is one of Skye's most famous landmarks. The Quiraing is next. A landslip on the eastern side of Skye, the Quiraing offers some of the island's most spectacular scenery. Skye's mountains are called the Cuillins, and today we will enjoy drinking in their majesty in this little slice of heaven. We now route along the Sleat Peninsula to our ferry at Armadale. 25 minutes later we are on the mainland again, at the quaint fishing port of Mallaig and then drive on to our night stop at Fort William, which sits below Ben Nevis.
o/n MOORINGS HOTEL
'Ben Nevis' the UK's highest mountain at 4413 feet!
Here at
Fort William
Day 12
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Stirling Castle - The Kelpies - Edinburgh
Today, sadly your last, we route through the awesome valley of Glencoe! Nestled in the majestic Western Highlands, it is a sight to behold.
We continue driving up to the high plain of Rannoch Moor, past the Bridge of Orchy and Crainlarich en route to Stirling Castle.
We will pass through the Victorian railway town of Callander. It's always been a tourist stop, where they sell great ice cream!.
Then the impressive Stirling Castle, which is one of the top attractions in Scotland and sits perched on top of an extinct volcano. Mary Queen of Scots sought to create a fabulous palace to rival other monarchies of Europe. You can judge if she achieved her goal!
Then its away to see the Kelpies. These outstanding sculptures represent the shape-shifting water spirits from Scottish folklore known as Kelpies, which are said to inhabit lochs and rivers, often taking the form of horses.
And so, its back to Edinburgh, where you will catch your flight the next day, and have time to reflect upon what has been the trip of a lifetime!
o/n MURRYFIELD HOTEL
Glencoe
A Kelpie
Stirling Castle
Famous Scots
James VI of Scotland, later known as James I of England, was born on June 19, 1566, in Edinburgh Castle. He ascended to the Scottish throne at just 13 months old after his mother, Mary, Queen of Scots, was forced to abdicate.
During his minority, Scotland was ruled by regents, and James received a comprehensive education. Fluent in multiple languages and well-versed in theology and philosophy, James's reign in Scotland was marked by efforts to centralise royal authority and establish control over the powerful nobility.
He faced religious tensions between Catholics and Protestants, striving for religious stability through the establishment of the Presbyterian Church.
In 1586, James married Anne of Denmark, and the couple had several children, including the future Charles I. His reign in Scotland saw the publication of the King James Version of the Bible in 1611, a testament to his interest in theological matters and his desire for religious unity.
Upon the death of Queen Elizabeth I in 1603, James succeeded to the English throne, unifying the crowns of England and Scotland. This union laid the foundation for the eventual formation of the United Kingdom. He famously instructed that all new public houses in Enbland were to be named 'The Red Lion' after the red lion in the Scottish flag!
A true Scottish hero!
King James VI and I