Day 1

We arrive at our hotel to a welcome tea/coffee before dinner.

Day 2

Edinburgh Castle, Scotch Whiskey Experience & Dawyck Botanic Gardens
Set in the heart of Edinburgh we walk in the footsteps of many soldiers, kings & queens as we walk up Castle Hill. Visit the Chapel which is Edinburgh's oldest building, built in honour of Queen Margaret by her son, King Edward I. Explore the castle at your own pace, taking in the stunning scenery around the castle as well as the beautiful architecture.
In the afternoon we make our way to the Scotch Whisky Experience where we'll have a tour of the distillery. Explore the vault of the world's largest collection of Scotch Whisky, learn how geography and weather combine to create unique aromas, flavours & characteristics. We delve into the history of blending the perfect dram while enjoying a dram of single malt or blended scotch whiskey.
While on our way back to our hotel we stop at Dawyck Botanic Gardens, full of Scotlands finest tree collections some dating back to 1680. View some of the 5* gardens which are renowned for its seasonal displays of snowdrops, bluebells, rhododendrons, azaleas and poppies.

Day 3

First Scotrail, Abbotsford House & Great Tapestry of Scotland
Our first part of the day we journey from Waverley to Tweedbank on the Scotrail service passing through old mining villages, open farmland and large towns full of history. When we arrive in Tweedbank we then head to Abbotsford House the home of Sir Walter Scott a poet and author from Scotland. His home is seen just as he left it, full of history and beautiful paintings. Explore the stunning gardens. After lunch we head over to the Great Tapestry of Scotland, a building full of tapestries that have been handmade telling the full story of Scotland as well as the lives of the everyday people that live here.

Day 4

Rosslyn Chapel & Thirlestane Castle
This morning after breakfast we make our way to Rosslyn Chapel, founded in 1446 by Sir William St Clair. In 1650 Cromwell's troops attacked Rosslyn Castle and stabled their horses inside the Chapel. In 1995 a report confirmed that it needed major conservation work doing which has led to the building to this day. Free time to explore the chapel, study the glorious stained glass windows, carvings on the walls or wander the grounds and don't forget to visit the visitor centre where you can learn the history of the chapel.
After lunch we then arrive at Thirlestane Castle, home to the Maitland family for over 400 years. It opened to the public in 1984. During the Second World War is became a home to the girls from St Hilary' School in Edinburgh. Explore the castle and the extensive grounds on our guided tour.

Day 5

We depart the hotel after breakfast and make our way home.

Hotel

4* Barony Castle, Peebles

Built in 1536, Barony Castle is set in 25 acres of beautiful countryside just north of the historic town of Peebles in the Scottish Borders.

Bedrooms: Desk, coffee/tea facilities, telephone, alarm clock, hairdryer, TV, complimentry toiletries

Facilities: Pool, bar, lounge, sauna, Wi-Fi, restaurant, 24-hour front desk.

Mobility Information:  A lift is available at this hotel.