Edinburgh, Loch Ness and the Highlands
from London
Surrounded by seven hills, Scotland’s capital is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Winding cobbled streets, breathtaking architecture and historic landmarks sit alongside a thriving bar, restaurant and cultural scene. The UNESCO World Heritage Site at the heart of the city combines the medieval Old Town, the Georgian New Town and award winning modern architecture.
After a swift journey by high speed train from London to Edinburgh settle in to your city-centre hotel for your two-night stay in Scotland.
Enjoy an open-top bus tour of Edinburgh to explore the city at your own pace. You can hop-off to visit the places that interest you then catch the next bus to continue your tour. Situated on top of an extinct volcano, majestic Edinburgh Castle is steeped in history. Take a tour and discover its secrets, enjoying spectacular views across the city. Make sure you see Scotland’s Crown Jewels, Mons Meg (giant cannon) and St Margaret’s Chapel the oldest building in Edinburgh.
The Royal Mile was for centuries the hub of life in Edinburgh. A gentle stroll along any part of this historic street will take you in the footsteps of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and a host of colourful Scottish characters. At the foot of the Royal Mile sits the iconic Scottish Parliament building and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, HM The Queen’s official residence in Scotland.
Princes Street Gardens mark the southern edge of the New Town. Here you will find grand squares and sweeping crescents that feature some of the finest Georgian architecture in Europe. You can discover more about life in Edinburgh during the late 18th Century by visiting the Georgian House in Charlotte Square.
Today we travel out of the city. The Loch Ness Monster - fact or fiction? We’ll find out on this splendid tour through the glorious Scottish Highlands. From Edinburgh our journey northwards starts with a drive to Stirling, with it’s dramatically sited castle overlooking the surrounding countryside. Through Rob Roy Macgregor Country to haunting Glen Coe, the "Glen of Weeping”, where in 1692 forty of the resident MacDonald clan were massacred in cold blood by the Campbells for not foreswearing the Jacobite cause. They say you can still hear their cries!
We’ll spend time at Loch Ness, where you can enjoy a cruise on the loch or simply enjoy a relaxing break. We’ll return to Edinburgh by early evening after a wonderful day of discovery and maybe, just maybe………..
Day ThreeThere is time for some last minute shopping or sightseeing. Why not visit the former Royal Yacht Britannia, now permanently moored in Edinburgh’s harbour at Leith or enjoy a relaxing stroll in the Royal Botanical Gardens.
If you fancy some retail therapy you’ll find the designer label shopping in fashionable George Street. Grand Princes Street provides world-class shops and department stores including Jenners, Edinburgh’s very own version of Harrods! If you’re looking for antiques or quirky souvenirs try friendly Stockbridge or Victoria Street.
All to soon it’s time to head to Waverley Station to board your comfortable train for the return journey to London. Haste ye back!
This tour is unescorted.