Scotland: Castles, Palaces and Abbeys of Eastern Scotland
12th Jun 2026
Key Highlights
• Stirling Castle set in an imposing position with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside
• Glamis Castle - the inspiration for William Shakespeare’s Macbeth
• Loch Leven Castle where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567
Summary
The East of Scotland is home to a fine collection of Royal Palaces and historical Castles. Our tour begins at the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots – Linlithgow Palace, which was also used as a rest stop between Edinburgh and Stirling Castle, the latter of which is also on our agenda. Heading north into Angus, we visit Glamis Castle, said to be the setting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The Royal connection continues as this was the birthplace of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. Scone Palace, set in the heart of Perthshire countryside is the ancestral home of the Earls of Mansfield and is most famous as the crowning place of Scottish Kings. Built in red sandstone with a castellated roof, it is a great example of Gothic Revival style in Scotland. Continuing with connections to Mary, Queen of Scots we visit one of her places of refuge - Falkland Palace and also the site of her imprisonment, Loch Leven Castle. Our final visits include Culross Palace with its maze of passageways and painted ceilings and Dunfermline Abbey and Palace resting place of many Scottish royals but possibly most notably Robert the Bruce.
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
Graham Bruce
Graham is from Aberdeenshire, but for 29 years was a resident of Durness, Sutherland, in the far north of the Highlands, where he was the headteacher in the local school. Since qualifying as a guide in 2014 he has toured extensively in central and northern Scotland including Orkney and Western Islands. He has also carried out day tours in Aberdeen city and shire as well as to whisky distilleries. He has led specialist tours to historic homes and ones involving steam traction and travelling by train. Extended touring, where there is time to get to grips with the culture and scenery of Scotland, is something he particularly enjoys doing.
Day by Day Itinerary
We depart from our designated pick-up points and travel to our first visit – Linlithgow Palace. Situated on the shore of Linlithgow Loch the Palace was once one of the principal residences of the monarchs of Scotland during the 15th and 16th centuries. We spend some time here exploring the ruins of the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots and highlights include the Great Hall and an intricate fountain found in the central courtyard. There is also a chance to climb up to the roof for panoramic views.
Later we head to the heart of the city of Stirling where we find Stirling Castle. A magnificent Castle set in an imposing position with impressive architecture overlooking the city and with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. We step back in time as we explore Scotland’s past, her Renaissance Kings and Queens as well as the collection of colourful and exquisitely crafted rooms. There is much to explore including the Great Hall dating back to 1503, the graceful Chapel room built by King James VI and the delightful Queen Anne Gardens. Following our visit we continue to our comfortable hotel.
Meals includedDinner
Departure Routes
| Location | Pickup Time | Dropoff Time |
|---|---|---|
| To be advised | 00:00 | 00:00 |
| Glasgow, Bus stop on North Hanover Street, opposite Queen Street Station | 08:00 | 17:15 |
| Edinburgh, Outside reception of the Delta by Marriott Hotel, Glasgow Road | 09:15 | 16:00 |
** 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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