Scotland: Castles of Aberdeenshire
8th Jun 2026
Key Highlights
- The magnificent painted ceilings at Crathes Castle
- Castle Fraser, one of Scotland’s grandest baronial tower houses
- 175 years of Royal history at Balmoral
Summary
Discover a rich tapestry of history, legend and architectural splendour on this captivating journey through the castles of Aberdeenshire. From the dramatic clifftop ruins of Dunnottar to the royal grandeur of Balmoral, each castle tells a unique story of Scotland’s turbulent and fascinating past. Explore romantic tower houses, ancient fortresses and elegant gardens that span centuries of cultivation. This four-day tour offers a memorable escape into the heart of Scotland’s noble heritage and spectacular northeast landscapes.
What's included
- Accommodation
- Meals as per itinerary
- Entries to all sites as per the itinerary
- Services of an expert tour manager
- Comfortable coach travel throughout
Meet your tour manager
Brian Sinclair
On leaving school in 1977 I started as an apprentice gardener with Falkirk council. Subsequently I went to college to study horticulture and spent a practical middle year on an apple orchard in the Loire valley, so starting a liking for France and her people. Following this I worked as a practical gardening/arboriculture instructor at several colleges before returning to practical gardening at Inverewe gardens, Threave gardens then as head gardener at House of Dun. I also spent 13 years as head gardener Findrack estate on Deeside before returning to work in France as a gardener for 6 years. Eventually I returned to my native Scotland to be head gardener at Stirling Castle conducting many of the request tours of the grounds and gardens. Through all these years of travelling I've also kept my love for history, hill walking, reading non-fiction and cycling.
Day by Day Itinerary
Dunnotter Castle
We depart from our designated pick-up points and head to Dunnottar Castle, one of the most striking ruined castles to be found in Scotland. The dramatic location perched on the top of soaring sea cliffs and surrounded by the sea on three sides only adds to the mystical atmosphere. It has played a crucial role throughout Scottish history, but is originally known as a Pictish fortress.
Meals IncludedDinner
Departure Routes
| Location | Pickup Time | Dropoff Time |
|---|---|---|
| Glasgow - bus stop on North Hanover Street, opposite Queens Street Station | 09:00 | 18:45 |
| Edinburgh - outside reception of the Delta by Marriott Hotel, Glasgow Road | 10:15 | 17:30 |
| Dunfermilne - Halbeath Park & Ride, Jct 3, M90 | 10:45 | |
| Kinross - Moto Services on M90 | 11:15 | 16:30 |
| Perth - Broxden Park & Ride, A93 | 11:45 | 16:00 |
| 17:00 |
** Please note that all timings are approximate and subject to change. Final timings and pick-up points will be confirmed with your joining instructions approximately 10 days prior to departure. **
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