Magnificent Castles of Scotland
Edinburgh – Fife – Stirling - Blair Atholl - Edinburgh
7 nights
Visit, explore and be dazzled by the history of Scotland with tours in the most famous castles and hidden gems that many visitors to
Scotland do not know about. We will take you on an unforgettable journey!
Arrival: Greeted at the airport on arrival with champagne and taken to your hotel.
Castles visited includes:
Edinburgh Castle
Unmissable highlights of Edinburgh Castle’s wealth of treasures are the crown jewels, The Honours of
Scotland, which are amongst the oldest in Europe and The Stone of Destiny. The Great Hall has a striking
arms and armour display. Also off Crown Square is the Royal Palace including the birthing chamber where
Mary Queen of Scots gave birth. Don’t miss St Margaret’s Chapel, Edinburgh’s oldest building. The Scottish
National War Memorial, a moving experience, is the shrine to those who gave their lives in conflict .
Craigmillar Castle
Simply one of the most completely preserved medieval castles in Scotland. Craigmillar began life as the
tower house that still forms the core of the castle. This was constructed around 1400, built by an important
Scottish family of the period, the Prestons, probably by Sir George Preston, one of a line of Prestons who
played a large part in civic life in Edinburgh over several hundred years.
Linlithgow Palace
Linlithgow Palace is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. As it turned out, the infant
queen remained only seven months at Linlithgow before being taken by her mother to the greater security of
Stirling Castle. It was another 20 years before she returned.
Stirling castle
Perched high upon a mighty rock, it was here the kings and queens of Scotland held magnificent feasts
and celebrations. Royal stronghold, palace of pleasures, regimental garrison – Stirling Castle has played
many roles. And on the sweeping plains beneath its ramparts great medieval armies clashed to decide the
fate of nations.
Blair Castle (only castle that still has its own private army)
The Atholl Highlander Room commemorates Europe’s only remaining private army
which has its headquarters at the castle. Each May the Atholl Highlanders assemble for a
full parade under the inspection of their Colonel in Chief, the Duke of Atholl. This is an
example of renovated castle for visitor attraction.
Lochleven Castle
Situated on a beautiful Loch, you will take a boat ride to the island where the castle sits. This late 14th or
early 15th-century castle was the setting for the most traumatic year in the life of Mary Queen of Scots. It
was here in 1567 that she was imprisoned and forced to abdicate before her dramatic escape a year later.
This castle has also had many famous monarchs including William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.
Activities during your stay:
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Whisky Tasting – become a professional, after learning the art of Whisky.
Visit to the Gleneagles Hotel for falconry or 4X4 Driving
Visit to the Her Majesty’s Royal Yacht Britannia
Dining in the most exclusive restaurants
Hotels / Castles range from 3 star, 4 star or 5 star. Your required hotel can be chosen from our hotel list. This tour can
be extended or combined with another one of our tours.
Copyright 2009 Travel Direct (UK) Ltd