Be sure to visit the Museum of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders and read the soldiers’ letters home during the World Wars
One of Scotland’s most historic castles, Stirling Castle sits atop an extinct volcano near the city of Edinburgh. Surrounded on three sides by precipitous cliffs, its a formidable defensive position. There have been at least eight sieges of Stirling Castle - all bloody, and rarely successful - with the last in 1746 by Bonnie Prince Charlie.
The site’s military importance has been recognised for centuries: some speculate that a fortress has existed here since before the Romans arrived. The current castle dates from the late 14th to 16th century when it was a magnificent residence of the Stuart monarchy.
Now the castle has been recently restored to look as it would have done then, just as it was completed by James V’s French masons. A highlight is the Royal Palace, which is a true demonstration of the luxuries of 17th century royal life. Fine fireplaces and exquisitely carved oak fill its six rooms - three for the King and three for the Queen - while an astounding reproduction of a series of tapestries depicting the hunt of a unicorn make for extraordinary decorations.
Fools’ gold
James IV, who reigned 1488-1513, kept a full Renaissance court at Stirling. He wanted to establish is as a palace of European standing, and this meant having a few mad alchemists too. If a satirical poem by the poet William Dunbar is based in fact, the castle walls may have been the site of an attempt at human-powered flight by the Italian alchemist John Damian. He broke his thigh.
The Ladies of Stirling Castle
Stirling has no shortage of female phantoms. They are an unusually colourful bunch: the Blue Lady, the Pink Lady, the White Lady, and, perhaps most famously, the Green Lady. It is said the Green Lady was the daughter of a Commander of the fortress who threw herself from Elphinstone Tower onto the cruel rocks below when her father ended her inappropriate romance by shooting her suitor.
This full-day trip will take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, from the medieval city of Stirling, which ties the Highlands and Lowlands together including its striking castle, to the natural beauty of the Trossachs and Loch Lomond National Park.
On your private tour to the Scottish Highlands, you will:
On your tour, you will have the chance to visit the magnificent Stirling Castle, which overlooks the ancient city of Stirling. The castle is one of the most iconic historic buildings in Scotland and has come to symbolize the spirit of this great nation. It sits atop an extinct volcano near the city of Edinburgh. Surrounded on three sides by precipitous cliffs, it's a formidable defensive position.
There have been at least eight sieges of Stirling Castle - all bloody, and rarely successful - with the last in 1746 by Bonnie Prince Charlie. Learn about the key moments of Scotland’s long, violent and bloody history.
You will also visit the Trossachs and Loch Lomond National Park, also known as ‘the Scottish Highlands in Miniature’, for it offers such a splendid view over myriad gorgeous lochs, untamed mountains and wonderful forests. About 100km northwest of Edinburgh, The Trossachs National Park is unrivalled for its scenery, walking and wildlife. The park is centred on Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater expanse in mainland Britain, and has a boundary of some 350km, encircling no less than 21 Munros. It is a place for superlatives.
Please note: if your travelling party is larger than 3, please be in touch so we may work with you on a custom booking.
Explore the natural beauty of the highlands including Glencoe and a scenic cruise at Loch Ness on a day trip away from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh's city centre.
On your private full-day trip, you will:
Leaving Edinburgh, your tour will begin with a scenic drive to the medieval city of Stirling, where you will see the magnificent Stirling Castle (only from the outside). Overlooking the ancient city of Stirling, the castle is one of the most iconic historic buildings of Scotland and has come to symbolize the spirit of this great nation.
Along your tour, your guide will share with you the history of Scotland’s long, violent and bloody past, while also sharing its vibrant culture.
You will then proceed towards one of the most scenic areas in Scotland, Glencoe, and the peaks of the Three Sisters ridge. From there, you will have the opportunity to visit Fort William, one of Scotland's popular western highland towns that rests in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak.
In the afternoon, you will continue your journey to Loch Ness, with your opportunity to spot the Loch Ness monster for yourself! Whilst there, enjoy a one-hour cruise (included) on the world-famous Loch Ness. On your return journey, your guide will take you through beautiful scenery!
Please note: If your travelling party is larger than 3, please be in touch so we may work with you on a custom booking.
Follow the footsteps of Jamie & Claire and travel back in time to the dramatic - and romantic - world of 18th-century Scotland on this Outlander day trip from the city of Edinburgh.
During your private day trip, you will:
For fans of the amazing Outlander series, inspired by the books of Diana Gabaldon, starring Sam Heughan and Catriona Balfe as Jamie and Claire Fraser, this tour is not to be missed! This is a captivating tour of some of Scotland’s loveliest scenery and magnificent castles. Your expert guide will also be a passionate fan of the series and show you the historic locations used for filming during this full-day tour (approximately 9 hours) in a luxury private vehicle.
Your guide will point out all the fictional Outlander references and also tell you the ‘real’ history of all the sites you’ll take in on this jam-packed, day-long adventure!
Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Scottish countryside, step back in time as you relive some of the most iconic scenes from Outlander, and walk with Claire and Jamie in spirit. As a note, beware of the unpredictable Scottish weather and bring comfortable clothing, a raincoat and walking shoes!
Please note: If your travelling party is larger than 3, please get in touch so we may work with you on a custom booking.
DISCLAIMER: This tour is an unlicensed and unauthorised tour of sites featured in the television series 'Outlander' developed by Ronald D. Moore, Left Bank Pictures, Story Mining and Supply Company, Tall Ship Productions and Sony Pictures Television Studios. Travel Curious Ltd. and this tour does not have any association with, or connection to, the television series 'Outlander', Ronald D. Moore, Left Bank Pictures, Story Mining and Supply Company, Tall Ship Productions and Sony Pictures Television Studios.
Dive into the heart of Scottish history and lore on a captivating private tour of Sir William Wallace, a towering figure in Scotland's heritage, known for his relentless struggle for Scotland's independence and unyielding resistance against the oppressive forces of King Edward I of England during the late 13th century from the legendary Battle of Bannockburn to the mystical Kelpies, and the grandeur of Stirling Castle and the National Wallace Monument.
On this private full-day driving tour, you will:
Embark on an unforgettable journey through time and legend with our exclusive private driving tour, exploring Scotland's most iconic and historically rich sites in the comfort of an iconic London cab. This immersive full-day tour will deepen your understanding of Scotland's past, providing insights into the events and figures that shaped this beautiful country.
At the Battle of Bannockburn battlefield, you will uncover the dramatic events of 1314 when Robert the Bruce secured a pivotal victory for Scotland, although the battle occurred after Wallace's time, it is an essential part of the narrative of Scotland's fight for independence.
Experience the legendary Kelpies sculptures towering 30 meters high. These modern engineering masterpieces pay tribute to Scotland’s industrial heritage and mythical folklore. Take the opportunity to capture stunning photos of these iconic structures set against the tranquil landscape.
Continue your journey to the Scottish symbol of resilience, Stirling Castle. Perched on Castle Hill, this fortress has witnessed many defining moments, becoming a pivotal point for both the Scots and the English during the Wars of Independence.
After a lunch stop, enjoy a drive towards the National Wallace Monument, a tribute to Sir William Wallace, the legendary Scottish hero. If time allows, your guide will tailor the tour to include any additional attractions that cater to your interests.
During the tour, your guide will provide insightful commentary and answer any questions, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience. As the day comes to an end, you will be driven to your hotel with memories of a journey through Scotland’s heart and soul.
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone looking to explore the iconic- and hidden gems of Scotland. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of Scotland
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