Scotland Archives - Greatdays Group Travel

Curling Up at the North West Castle

Sarah Phillips — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:40:41 +0000

Celebrate Team GB’s thrilling silver medal in Men’s Curling at the Winter Olympics with a tour to witness the sport first hand in beautiful South West Scotland.

The North West Castle Hotel in Stranraer has its very own Olympic sized Indoor Curling Rink and viewing gallery in the Alpine Bar & Restaurant. Experience iconic Scottish hospitality, stunning scenery and local attractions while witnessing the skill and suspense of curling – known as the Roarin’ Game.

Southwest Scotland and the New Galloway Forest has many pretty villages and towns just waiting for you to discover plus the precious coastlines of Wigtown and Luce Bay. On this tour you ‘ll explore exception scenic routes along with visits to Culzean Castle, Robert Burns Museum and visitor centre, Logan Botanical Gardens and the wonderful Coos and Ewes to see these beautiful cattle in their natural surroundings, with curling adding a silver lining! You may wish to include a visit to the Devil’s Porridge museum en-route home on your return day (optional extra). Traditional Christmas dinner and a glass of mulled wine will be included on the November date at the hotel. Please note The curling rink is open from the start of October until the end of March. There is an optional for a 1 hour Curling session at the hotel, please enquire for more information (supplement and min numbers apply, please enquire for details).

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Queen of the South, Delightful Dumfries and the New Galloway Forest

Sarah Phillips — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 10:26:29 +0000

Dumfries, known as the ‘Queen of the South’ sits on the banks of the River Nith next door to the scenic New Galloway Forest park in this pretty part of South West Scotland. Undulating scenery, pretty villages and towns nestled along the coastline and rich in history, yet sometimes it is bypassed in favour of the Highlands. Explore this pretty area without the high mileage and long journeys to the North. On this tour we explore the scenic routes along with the Devils Porridge museum, Annandale Distillery, Threave Gardens and a guided tour of the Crichton Estate where you will be staying, this all adds to an interesting tour. You may wish to include a short visit to Sweetheart Abbey enroute to the hotel or on your return day. Optional extra.

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Festive Scotland – Gingerbread and Gin

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:20:53 +0000

Enjoy this fabulously festive package including fizz, entertainment, gingerbread & gin.

It’s easy to fall under Scotland’s winter spell. Staying at the Salutation Perth, location is everything with all the amenities of the town centre only a short walk away, along with in-house entertainment, making it perfect for a festive getaway. Furthermore, due to Perth’s central location, Edinburgh, Stirling and Dundee are only a short drive away.

Fred. Olsen – Scenic Islands & Dramatic Coastlines of Scotland – May 2026

Halle Thompson — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 09:01:45 +0000

Embark on a five-night voyage around Scotland’s scenic islands aboard Bolette, diverting from the usual tourist route into picturesque lochs and past remarkable sites. Marvel at the mystique of the Isle of Staffa, where the hexagonal basalt columns form Fingal’s Cave. You’ll also sail past the bonnet-shaped island of Bac Mòr, and the diverse landscapes of the Small Isles. Immerse yourself in Gaelic traditions with Ceilidh dancing, sample local whisky, cheeses and fudge in Orkney and engage with centuries-old folklore tales. Enrich your journey as you uncover legendary Neolithic landmarks such as Skara Brae and the standing Stones of Callanish.

Click to view Ship Information of the Bolette

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – BEST SELLER

pixeladmin — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 09:00:05 +0000

Set against the majestic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place each August. The Scottish capital comes alive with a unique and unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance.

Edinburgh is a vibrant city and has many attractions and sights to discover. Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, or venture to see the Edinburgh Castle which dominates the skyline. Some may choose to make the most of the Edinburgh countryside, with picturesque gardens and parks. Whilst others may choose to hit the high street for a spot of retail therapy. Whatever your interest, Edinburgh is packed with activities for everyone’s taste!

The Tweed Valley, the New Borders Railway and Edinburgh

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 09:04:28 +0000

This Tweed Valley tour combines a visit to Edinburgh, a ride on the scenic Borders Railway, and visits to Abbotsford (the home of Sir Walter Scott), Mellerstain House and Gardens, one of Scotland’s finest Stately Homes, and Floors Castle. There’s also an opportunity to discover the unique Ford and Etal Estates, including Heatherslaw Corn Mill and Lady Waterford Hal

Edinburgh is a city with a wealth of history, and preserves this in its culture to create a blend of old and new. Edinburgh is home to Scotland’s number one visitor attraction the Edinburgh Castle, situated at the top of the Royal Mile, with amazing views of the city. Edinburgh does not fall short of attractions to visit from Edinburgh Zoo, to the underground vaults and a variety of museums and galleries.

Christmas Markets in Edinburgh

Amy Gaillemin — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:42:32 +0000

Why not indulge yourself in all things Christmasy? Edinburgh is perfect for wandering around the markets and treat yourself to a mulled wine and a mince pie whilst enjoying the Christmas lights, music and festive atmosphere.

Edinburgh Christmas celebrations start in mid November and run until early January. Christmas lights shine over the whole city and help get you into the swing of Christmas. The city has an entire month packed with Christmas events and festive markets selling craft goods, food and drink.

Entrance is free to visitors. All you need are sturdy walking shoes for meandering between the stalls!

The Road to the Borders: Gretna, the Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 16:17:44 +0000

On this group tour of the Borders we traverse the border region of England and Scotland, beginning with a trip over the border to Gretna Green and the Devil’s Porridge Museum in Dumfries and Galloway.

We also venture along Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland to see the Roman Vindolanda, and take to the water in Cumbria before exploring award-winning Lowther Castle.

Gretna: Runaway Marriages and the Devil’s Porridge

On the outskirts of the Scottish border town of Gretna and across the river from the English county of Cumbria, Gretna Green is best known as the destination of eloping couples. The Famous Blacksmiths Shop features a number of shops and places to eat as well as recreations of a blacksmith’s forge, marriage rooms and tales of past scandals and elopement.

Shortly to the west is the Devil’s Porridge Museum on the site of the old HM Factory Gretna. Built to address Britain’s 1915 ‘shell crisis’ in which soldiers fighting in France found themselves short of ammunition, the factory was the world’s largest munitions factory during the First World War.

Exhibitions explore stories of the 12,000 women who travelled from across the UK to aid production as well as tales from the Solway Military Coast from WWII and beyond. The museum takes on the term Devil’s Porridge, coined by Sir Arthur Conan-Doyle after witnessing the production of the volatile mixture used in the bombs.

Ullswater & Lowther Castle

The steamer cruise on Ullswater Lake gives opportunity to marvel at some of the Lake District’s most impressive sights. The second largest lake in the region after Windermere, Ullswater is flanked by the ridges of Helvellyn.

Near Penrith, Lowther Castle offers up a haunting beauty. The newly-renovated gardens contrast the ruinous castle, which fell into disrepair after WWII, offering a ghostly mix of austere and splendour.

Hadrian’s Wall & the Remains of Roman Britain

Reaching 73-miles across Britain’s neck from the Solway Firth to the mouth of the Tyne, Hadrian’s Wall separated Roman Britain from the Scottish Picts. Named for Emperor Hadrian upon whose orders it was built between AD 122 and 128, the wall ties together 80 Roman forts in a truly impressive feat of ancient engineering.

Among its many nearby garrison towns is Vindolanda fort. Site of impressive reconstructed turrets and a temple, Vindolanda also hosts an ever-growing time capsule museum as more and more of the town, once lost to the soil, is uncovered.

Beyond the old Roman village of Corbridge – the oldest fortified site in the region, predating the wall by some 40 years – is the magnificent Hexham Abbey. A classic piece of early English architecture, Hexham Abbey highlight certainly must be its 7^th century Saxon crypt.

Classic Edinburgh

Jess Burke — Sun, 29 Jun 2025 21:00:54 +0000

Edinburgh, Scotland’s resplendent capital, has all the ingredients to make a memorable break. This Greatdays ‘Classic’ tour includes a guided walking tour and visits to Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Yacht Britannia and the National Museum of Scotland. We also take a Forth Boat Cruise.

The Wild West – Scotland’s Dramatic Coast

pixeladmin — Sun, 29 Jun 2025 21:00:17 +0000

From the rugged splendour of the glens to the serenity of the lochs, the West Scotland has a unique beauty. We enjoy a day out on the Isle of Mull, take a drive through the world famous Glencoe, and spend time in Oban and Fort William.

Aberdeen Castles and Cattle

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Wed, 21 May 2025 21:05:49 +0000

On this frightfully exciting tour we visit some of Scotland’s most haunted castles including Crathes, Drum and Fyvie. We also get into a ‘hairy situation’ at Aberdeen Highland Cattle Farm where we meet the native pedigree cattle herd, followed by a tasting. Next stop is Peterhead Prison Museum where we learn of the dastardly deeds and raucous riots caused by prisoners housed in “Scotland’s toughest jail”.

The Wonders of Scotland

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Wed, 21 May 2025 21:00:56 +0000

Here’s a tour that delivers a truly Scottish experience. We discover the history of Edinburgh. We travel through the beautiful scenery of the Trossachs, take a cruise on Loch Lomond, and visit the magnificent Kelpies and the remarkable Falkirk Wheel. Add in a ride on the Bo’ness and Kinneil railway and you really do have Scotland at its best!

The Bonnie Borders

pixeladmin — Wed, 14 May 2025 21:09:05 +0000

The Scottish borders are easily accessible, stunningly scenic and rich in history. This tour is based in Peebles, originally an old Royal Burgh. Well known over the years as a popular holiday destination ‘Peebles for Pleasure’. This tour includes visits to the historic homes of Abbotsford and Traquair along with Rosslyn Chapel made world famous by bestselling novel the Da Vinci Code.

Why not extend the tour by a day, include the Bo’ness and Kinneil railway before enjoying an informative cruise on the Firth of Forth with a packed lunch whilst passing under the three iconic bridges. Supplement applies. Speak to a member of Greatdays UK team for more details.

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Loch Ness, Inverness and Skye

pixeladmin — Wed, 14 May 2025 21:09:05 +0000

See if the tales are true as you cruise down Loch Ness, attempting to spot the Loch Ness Monster, whilst cruising through the beautiful Scottish countryside. Learn more about the myths and legends that surround Nessie at the Loch Ness Centre. Explore the town at the southern end of the Loch, visit Fort Augustus, or the Clansmen Centre. On the stunning Isle of Skye we visit Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most recognised in Scotland. The last days of your trip will take you to the Black Isle, where you will visit a sleepy fishing village, and Inverness to explore the medieval streets.

Great Scottish Rail Journeys – BEST SELLER

pixeladmin — Tue, 13 May 2025 21:14:17 +0000

Discover Scotland’s scenic splendour as you sit back and relax on board The Jacobite Steam Train. The two and a half hour journey will involve travelling from Fort William to Mallaig; and is one of the greatest rail journeys in the world. On our other journeys we also travel on the Strathspey Railway from Aviemore to Broomhill. Be inspired by the scenic route as the train weaves through lochs with the majestic Cairngorm mountains towering over the Spey valley. Furthermore, this tour also includes the Kyle Line from Inverness to the Kyle of Lochalsh on the North West coast of Scotland.

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Charles Rennie Mackintosh Trail and Loch Cruise

Lisa Buller — Sun, 11 May 2025 21:46:18 +0000

Charles Rennie Mackintosh, born in Glasgow in 1868, was a Scottish architect, designer, water colourist and artist

His artistic approach had much in common with European symbolism. His work, alongside that of his wife, was influential on European design movements such as Art Nouveau and Secessionism and won praise from the great modernists. He is among the most important figures of the Moderne Style.

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Loch Lomond and Trossachs Explorer

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Sun, 11 May 2025 21:39:11 +0000

This delightful tour combines the spectacular scenery of the Trossachs with cruises on Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine, visits to Inveraray Castle and Jail and Stirling Castle, a boat trip on the Falkirk Wheel, and a whisky tasting.

A Royal Tour of Scotland

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Sun, 11 May 2025 21:33:52 +0000

Scotland’s royal connections are revealed in this Royal Scotland tour based in Perth. We travel to Edinburgh and visit The Royal Yacht Britannia, the Palace of Holyrood house, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. In Perthshire we visit Scone Palace, the Crowning Place of Scottish Kings. We also see The Stone of Destiny at Perth Museum and enjoy a tour of the Black Watch Museum. Venture to the beautiful Royal Deeside, stop off in Braemar and maybe visit Crathie Church, frequented by the Royal family. Alternatively you may wish to take a trip to Dundee and visit the V&A museum. We also visit Glamis Castle, childhood home of HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.

Ayrshire Coast, Isles of Arran and Bute

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Sun, 11 May 2025 21:20:19 +0000

On this Scottish Isles tour, discover the peaceful havens of the Isle of Bute and the Isle of Arran, visit Culzean Castle, Brodick Castle and Mount Stuart, and visit the birthplace of poet Robert Burns.

Discovering Inverness, the Cairngorms and the Spey Valley

Mark Bentley-Fisher — Wed, 07 May 2025 21:52:43 +0000

This tour brings together the spectacular Cairngorms National Park and the beautiful Spey Valley. Highlights of the tour include a visit to the Highland Folk Museum and a ride on the Strathspey Railway. We also hop aboard a Loch Ness cruise – keep your eyes peeled for Nessie!