Included excursions
Edinburgh
We spend time exploring the magnificent city of Edinburgh, including entry to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, dramatically perched atop Castle Rock. From there, wander through the atmospheric Old Town and along the Royal Mile, where historic closes and hidden gems await. The elegant Georgian New Town beckons with boutique shops, stylish cafés and refined restaurants on George Street. For a regal change of pace, step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia and explore five fascinating decks of Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace - a glimpse into royal life at sea.
Kelpies & V&A Dundee
We begin our day at The Helix Visitor Centre to admire The Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures and a breathtaking feat of engineering by Scottish artist Andy Scott. Towering 30 metres high, these gleaming steel giants pay tribute to the legendary shape-shifting water spirits of Scottish folklore, symbolising strength, endurance and the powerful transformation of the region’s landscape.
We then travel to the vibrant city of Dundee for a visit to the striking V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum, housed in an award-winning waterfront building inspired by the cliffs of Scotland’s east coast. Inside, engaging exhibitions celebrate design past, present and future, with a particular focus on Scottish creativity and innovation.
Our journey continues along the scenic Angus coast as we make our way to Aberdeen, Scotland’s Granite City.
Balmoral Castle
We visit Balmoral Castle, the majestic Highland retreat of the Royal Family since Prince Albert purchased it for Queen Victoria in 1852. Enchanted by the wild beauty of the Highlands, they made it a beloved personal residence - a tradition that continues to this day. Our visit offers a rare glimpse into the private side of royal life, with highlights including the beautifully kept formal gardens, tranquil water features, and productive vegetable plots, all set against a stunning Highland backdrop.
Later, we travel north through the Spey Valley, passing the charming town of Grantown-on-Spey en route to Inverness.
Please note: or Sept departures, Crathes Castle will replace Balmoral Castle.
Loch Ness cruise & Fort William
After an early breakfast, we begin our day with a magical cruise on the legendary Loch Ness. As we glide across its deep, mysterious waters, we’re surrounded by dramatic Highland scenery and perhaps we may even glimpse the elusive Nessie! Our journey continues to Fort William, nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis. Here, we have free time to explore the town’s charming shops or enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shores of Loch Linnhe. We end the day with a visit to Oban, a lively harbour town known as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’. With its pretty waterfront, Victorian architecture and famous seafood, it’s the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of Scotland’s west coast before we continue to our overnight stay in Inveraray.
Inveraray Castle & Loch Lomond
After breakfast, we begin our day with a visit to Inveraray Castle, an elegant 18th-century masterpiece set against the dramatic backdrop of the Argyll Highlands. Home to the Duke of Argyll, the castle is rich in history and grandeur, with opulent interiors, fine art collections and beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking Loch Fyne. We then continue to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, where the scenery shifts to shimmering waters framed by wooded hills and rolling mountains. Our journey then takes us into Glasgow, where there’s free time to explore this vibrant city’s rich mix of architecture, culture and cafés, before continuing to the final overnight hotel of our Grand Tour.