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Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and The Kelpies Small Group Tour
Tour Summary
Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and The Kelpies Small Group Tour
One day tour
Starting in Glasgow, this Loch Lomond tour visits The Kelpies before continuing to Midhope Castle, recognised by Outlander fans as Lallybroch. After time to explore the estate and take photos, the journey continues to Stirling Castle, where Scotland’s royal history comes to life. The day ends in Balloch on the shores of Loch Lomond, with time to relax or join an optional cruise before returning to Glasgow.
The Kelpies - Enjoy up close views of these towering horse head statues
Midhope Castle - See Jamie’s family home, Lallybroch
Stirling - Stroll the cobbled streets of the Old Town
Stirling Castle - Explore this favoured residence of Scotland’s Kings and Queens
Loch Lomond - Take to the water to see the bonnie banks on an optional cruise
Balloch – Alternatively, enjoy loch-side views and shopping at Loch Lomond Shores
Movies - Outlander, Greyfriars Bobby and Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life
Full Tour Itinerary
Departing Glasgow, this Loch Lomond tour begins with a short drive to the impressive The Kelpies, towering sculptures that pay tribute to the working horses that powered Scotland’s industrial past.
From here, the journey continues to Midhope Castle, instantly recognisable as Lallybroch from Outlander. Although the interior is closed, there’s time to wander the grounds, soak up the atmosphere, and capture memorable photos at this famed filming location.
The tour then heads to the historic Stirling Castle, one of the country’s most important strongholds and a favoured residence of the Scottish Monarchs. With ample time to explore, visitors can walk through the Great Hall, the remarkable Renaissance palace of King James V and the Chapel Royal, where Mary, Queen of Scots, was crowned in 1543.
Later, head to Balloch, on the southern shores of Loch Lomond, where there is a chance to enjoy a scenic cruise on the loch or enjoy free time to admire the views of the “bonnie banks”.
The day ends with the short drive back to Glasgow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on this Small Group Tour?
With a maximum of just 16 passengers, a Small Group Tour provides a more personal and flexible travelling experience. You’ll enjoy more time off the bus, with freedom to explore free from the crowds.
While you will see all the highlights, these tours are carefully planned to travel off the highways, so you’ll discover quaint villages and picturesque vistas that other tours cannot reach.
Small group tours are operated by purpose-built mini-coaches with air-conditioning, panoramic windows and comfortable seating.
Each group is led by an experienced driver/guide who will entertain and inform you with stories of our history, nature and folklore.
Many travellers prefer small group touring as it’s considered more authentic and there is a better chance to connect with locals as well as their fellow explorers.
What are the optional extras on this tour and how much do they cost?
Admission fees are not included in the tour fare. Here are the attractions that are visited on this tour:
Loch Lomond Cruise
Stirling Castle
The links above provide more details, including prices. The tour itinerary has been carefully created to allow sufficient time for an interior visit, should you wish. In some cases, discounts are available to tour participants; your driver/guide will give you more information if this applies to this tour.
Some attractions don’t accept payment by credit/debit card, so it’s recommended that you bring sufficient cash should you wish to make a visit.
If you plan to visit Edinburgh Castle as well as Stirling Castle during your time in Scotland, you may wish to consider purchasing a Historic Scotland Explorer Pass. This ticket allows visits to more than 70 Historic Scotland attractions during the validity period of your pass.
Will there be a tour commentary?
Each tour is led by an experienced driver/guide who will provide an informative and entertaining commentary in English.
They are Outlander enthusiasts too so as well as discovering more about the history and nature of the landscape that surrounds you they’ll point out the locations that helped fire Diana Gabaldon’s imagination.
Tell me about the optional cruise on Loch Lomond?
The cruise will normally last for around one hour and will take you to see some of the 33 islands that are scattered across the loch.
You’ll enjoy wonderful views of magnificent Ben Lomond and of the many stately homes that line the banks of the Queen of Scotland’s lochs.
An engaging commentary will introduce you to the rich history of the area, it’s spectacular natural beauty and of the wildlife that call the loch home.
Most cruise boats have an open deck for enhanced sightseeing as well as a heated indoor saloon with a bar where you can purchase a wide range of drinks and snacks.
Can I book seats on the coach?
The seating on the coach is not allocated so you are free to sit in any vacant seat.
We recommend that you and your party arrive at the boarding point together so that you can be seated in the same part of the coach.
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