Scotland's Ancient Capitals

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then on to your hotel for four nights.

We start our journey to explore Scotland's ancient capitals with a visit to Edinburgh, Scotland’s current historic capital where the majestic castle towers over the whole city. The medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town sit side by side, dotted with interesting visitor attractions. Princes Street is home to city centre shopping, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafés to enjoy where you can sit and watch the world go by!

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without exploring Edinburgh Castle. Your entrance is included, so that you can marvel at The Great Hall and The Honours of Scotland, which are on display in the Crown Room, and are the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. The crown was made for James V, and Mary Queen of Scots was the first to be crowned using the new crown and sceptre together in 1543.

Today we visit Perth, which was the capital of Scotland from the 9th century to 1437. It is rooted in Scotland's ancient history and is the place where monarchs were once crowned. You will have some free time to explore, but a must visit is Perth Museum to see the Stone of Destiny, which has returned to the city after being removed by Edward I. It is a powerful symbol of not only Scotland but also the British monarchy and is still used today in the coronation ceremonies. The museum is free of charge and has a lovely café where you can enjoy a coffee and cake.

This afternoon we visit Scone Palace. It was once home to the Stone of Destiny and, for 500 years, was the crowning seat of ancient Scottish kings. It is now home to the Earls of Mansfield. The palace itself offers a unique first-hand experience of Scotland's heritage, as well as 100 acres of spectacular gardens including a Victorian Pinetum, Kitchen Garden and Murray Star Maze. You might also see some of its famous peacocks gracing the lawn!

This morning we journey to Dunfermline, the Ancient Capital of Scotland since Neolithic times. It is where Scottish Kings are buried, famously including Robert the Bruce, and the Abbey is a fascinating visit. You will have some free time to explore or have a coffee in the walled garden of Abbot House.

This afternoon, we head back to explore fascinating Stirling. The city is not only home to the battle of Stirling Bridge, one of William Wallace famous victories, but also the Battle of Bannockburn, which was pivotal in the war for Scottish independence with victory for Robert the Bruce. We will visit Stirling Castle, considered one of Scotland's most historically important sites. It was once a favored residence of the Stewart kings and queens who held grand celebrations at the castle. From here, you get a wonderful view of the National Wallace monument and the River Forth and Stirling Bridge.

The coach will stop at the Bannockburn Visitor Centre (entrance not included) on the way back to the hotel for those wishing to end their tour standing shoulder to shoulder with Robert the Bruce on the site of his greatest victory.

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