Heart of Scotland

Day 1 We make our way northwards and visit the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. This beautiful site was opened in 1997 and is home to 50,000 trees and over 200 memorials as a living tribute to the personal sacrifices made by the armed and civil services. We continue to our overnight hotel in the Lancashire area.

Day 2 Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we continue north and cross into Scotland. We visit the World Heritage Site at New Lanark Mill, a beautifully restored 18th-century cotton mill village with a charming visitor centre. We then travel on to our hotel north east of Glasgow, arriving late afternoon.

Day 3 We spend the day around the shores of Loch Lomond, where we have free time to explore Balloch, an enchanting town on the southern shore of the loch. You could visit the renowned Sealife Centre, Maid of the Loch – a paddle steamer undergoing restoration, visit the shops or enjoy a gentle stroll. (Entrance fees not included.) This afternoon we drive up the western shore of the loch to Luss, where we join our 90-minute Loch Lomond cruise with entertaining and informative commentary.

Day 4 This morning we travel to Stirling, with its impressive castle once home to Scottish kings, and a rich history interwoven with William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Scottish independence. The castle perches on a long extinct volcano and the cobbled streets of Stirling’s Old Town boast a number of pleasant shops. This afternoon we make our way to the magnificent Kelpies, the world’s largest equine structures, before visiting the Falkirk Wheel to see this remarkable feat of engineering. We have a trip on the canal and will be lifted 115 feet by this giant wheel which replaces 11 locks and is the pride of the Scottish Waterways.

Day 5 A full day to enjoy the sights of Edinburgh. We have included a hop on hop off bus ticket so that you can visit whichever of the many attractions you wish. Alternately, stay on board for the whole 60-minute audio-commentary.

Day 6 Today we travel the short distance into Glasgow where we have a guided tour by coach seeing all the main sights including the university and the cathedral. This is followed by a free afternoon for your own exploration.

Day 7 Departing our hotel, we make our way to the east coast and then travel through Northumberland with a stop in the pretty town of Alnwick. We continue south to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 We continue our journey south making suitable refreshment stops along the way and arrive in the local area early evening.