Castles, Palaces and Abbeys of Eastern Scotland 9627

Castles, Palaces and Abbeys of Eastern Scotland 9627

5 Views
4 Days From

$1395

Castles, Palaces and Abbeys of Eastern Scotland 9627

4 Days Starting and ending in Scotland

Visiting: Stirling, Perthshire, Falkland, Dunfermline

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BCPE

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Trip Styles:

UK tours by Coach

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1395

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the historic landscapes of Eastern Scotland with the "Castles, Palaces and Abbeys of Eastern Scotland" tour. This cultural adventure invites you to explore the majestic ruins of Linlithgow Palace, the regal Stirling Castle, and the enchanting Glamis Castle, each steeped in rich history and royal intrigue. Discover the crowning place of Scottish kings at Scone Palace and wander through the serene gardens of Falkland Palace. Experience the dramatic escape of Mary, Queen of Scots at Loch Leven Castle and marvel at the Romanesque architecture of Dunfermline Abbey. With comfortable coach travel and the guidance of a professional tour manager, this tour offers an immersive experience into Scotland's storied past, complete with included accommodations and site entries. Enjoy the breathtaking views and fascinating stories that accompany these historic sites, making for an unforgettable Scottish adventure.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic castles of Eastern Scotland, including Linlithgow Palace and Stirling Castle.

  • Visit Glamis Castle, the inspiration for Shakespeare's Macbeth, and learn about its rich history.

  • Discover Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings like Macbeth and Robert the Bruce.

  • Wander through the formal gardens and wildflower meadows of Falkland Palace.

  • Cross Loch Leven to visit the ruins of the castle where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned.

  • Experience the 17th-century gardens and dramatic views at Culross Palace.

  • Visit Dunfermline Abbey, the final resting place of Robert the Bruce.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Stirling

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart from our designated pick-up points and travel to our first visit – Linlithgow Palace. Situated on the shore of Linlithgow Loch the Palace was once one of the principal residences of the monarchs of Scotland during the 15th and 16th centuries. We spend some time here exploring the ruins of the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots and highlights include the Great Hall and an intricate fountain found in the central courtyard. There is also a chance to climb up to the roof for panoramic views.
Later we head to the heart of the city of Stirling where we find Stirling Castle. A magnificent Castle set in an imposing position with impressive architecture overlooking the city and with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. We step back in time as we explore Scotland’s past, her Renaissance Kings and Queens as well as the collection of colourful and exquisitely crafted rooms. There is much to explore including the Great Hall dating back to 1503, the graceful Chapel room built by King James VI and the delightful Queen Anne Gardens. Following our visit we continue to our comfortable hotel.

Day 2

Location: Perthshire

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we venture into the heart of Angus to the birthplace of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, Glamis Castle. The inspiration for William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the castle has been the ancestral home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne since the 14th-century. During our visit we enjoy a tour of the castle and learn about over 1000 years of history and its famous visitors who include Mary, Queen of Scots. Glamis Castle also boasts an impressive collection of ghosts.
This afternoon we head to Scone Palace, perched above the River Tay in Perthshire, its enviable location overlooks the routes to the northwards to the Highlands and eastwards through Strathmore to the coast. The Grampian Mountains make a dramatic backdrop and across the river you can gaze upon the city of Perth. Scone Palace throughout its history has been the seat of Parliaments as well as the crowning place of the Kings of Scots including both Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. We can explore the palace that is home to a fine collection of antiques, paintings and extraordinary artefacts.

Day 3

Location: Falkland

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning our first visit is Falkland Palace & Gardens where Mary, Queen of Scots often took refuge, during the tumultuous political and religious upheavals of the 16th century. We spend some time exploring this fine renaissance Palace, its formal gardens and the surrounding wildflower meadow. Inside the castle there is detailed panelling in the drawing room and fascinating painted walls in the library to look out for. Other highlights include the elaborately embellished Falkland Bed and the royal apartments, where we find the Queen’s Room which has been arranged as Mary, Queen of Scots may have used it.
This afternoon we make our way to Loch Leven Castle. We cross the loch to the ruins of the Castle where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567. After spending a year at the castle as a prisoner, Mary was forced to abdicate before dramatically escaping using May Day celebrations as a cover. We spend some time surrounded by beautiful scenery soaking up the tranquillity of the Castle’s setting before exploring the Tower House rooms and Glassin Tower.

Day 4

Location: Dunfermline

Today we visit Culross Palace which was constructed between 1597 and 1611 by Sir George Bruce, Laird of Carnock. We spend the morning exploring the tiny Palace rooms, connecting passageways and painted ceilings. We then head outside to the restored gardens which incorporate many features which would have been found in the 17th century. Located on a slope behind the Palace the garden offers dramatic views across the Firth of Forth. The small garden is full of vegetable, herbs and aromatic plants and don’t forget to look out for the freely roaming ‘Scott’s Dumpy’ hens!
In the early afternoon we will make our way to Dunfermline Abbey and Palace which was originally founded as a Priory before becoming a Royal resting place, serving this role for over 250 years.  Here you are able to see the hugely impressive nave, its Romanesque architecture very similar to the Cathedral in Durham. We can also search for fossilised crustaceans in the marble plinth of St Margaret’s shrine, admire the James Ballantine Window in the Nave showing portraits of Queen Margaret, Malcolm Canmore, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. Speaking of whom, we can also visit the final resting place of Robert and see a reconstruction of his original tomb. However, hist heart is interred in Melrose Abbey, in the Scottish Border.
We later return to our original pick-up points.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included in the tour package.

  • Meals as per itinerary

    Meals are provided as per the itinerary.

  • Entries to all sites as per the itinerary

    Entry fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    A professional tour manager will be available throughout the tour.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided for the entire duration of the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional meals are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately.

  • Optional activities

    Any optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

Mode of Transport

The tour offers comfortable coach travel throughout, ensuring a smooth journey between the various sites.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not provided for this tour, but it includes stays as part of the package.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transport is provided during the tour?

    The tour offers comfortable coach travel throughout, ensuring a smooth journey between the various sites.

  • Is accommodation included in the tour package?

    Yes, accommodation is included in the tour package.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    Meals are provided as per the itinerary.

  • Will there be a tour manager available during the tour?

    Yes, a professional tour manager will be available throughout the tour.

  • Are entry fees to the sites included in the tour package?

    Yes, entry fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • What historical sites will be visited on the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, the tour visits Linlithgow Palace and Stirling Castle.

  • What can be expected during the visit to Glamis Castle?

    During the visit to Glamis Castle, you will enjoy a tour of the castle, learn about its history and famous visitors, and hear about its impressive collection of ghosts.

  • What is special about the visit to Scone Palace?

    Scone Palace has been the seat of Parliaments and the crowning place of the Kings of Scots, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. It houses a fine collection of antiques, paintings, and extraordinary artefacts.

  • What highlights can be expected at Falkland Palace & Gardens?

    At Falkland Palace & Gardens, you can explore the fine renaissance Palace, its formal gardens, and the surrounding wildflower meadow. Highlights include the Falkland Bed and the royal apartments.

  • What is unique about the visit to Loch Leven Castle?

    Loch Leven Castle is where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567. The visit includes exploring the Tower House rooms and Glassin Tower, surrounded by beautiful scenery.

  • What can visitors see at Dunfermline Abbey and Palace?

    Visitors can see the impressive nave with Romanesque architecture, the James Ballantine Window, and the final resting place of Robert the Bruce, among other historical features.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Friday

Jun 03, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025
$1395

Sunday - Wednesday

Jun 15, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
$1395
Prices last published on 31-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Enquire for huge savings

Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.

By submitting this form, I accept Travel Club Elites terms & conditions and privacy policy.

Similar Tours