One of the advantages of visiting the UK is that there’s not a corner that can’t be reached within a matter of hours. One of the most popular excursions from London is to the land of the brave, or as it’s more commonly known, Scotland.
Taking into account value for money, convenience and customer reviews, TravelMag presents our top three Scotland tours from London, each offering a unique way to experience one of northern Europe’s jewels in the crown.
A Day in the Life (1 Day)
FROM £164 PER PERSON
There’s something eminently pleasant and civilised about overland train travel and the railway route along Britain’s scenic east coast is about as good as it gets. This one-day whistle-stop tour of Edinburgh starts bright and early at London’s King’s Cross Station, where you can grab a (reserved) window seat for the journey north. Once in Edinburgh, it’s time to hit the sights, starting with an open top bus tour, taking in the historic old town including the famous Royal Mile. Then comes the pièce de résistance – a tour of the iconic and imposing Edinburgh Castle, which stands guard over the city from atop the Castle Rock. At 5.30pm you’ll bid a heavy-hearted goodbye to Scotland for arrival back in London at 10.18pm.
On the Trail of a Legend (3 Days)
FROM £359 PER PERSON
This tour is an eye opener from the off, with a scenic train ride from London passing through the beautiful city of York and along the east of England coastline before arriving in Edinburgh. Here you’ll get to see all the city highlights, including a visit to Edinburgh Castle. Early morning of day two is spent at the charming village of Luss on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. Next you’ll visit the infamous site of the 1692 Glencoe massacre followed by a short drive to Fort William in the shadow of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, where you’ll stop for lunch. The afternoon is spent at Fort Augustus a small village on the banks of Loch Ness, where you can enjoy a boat trip on the loch or simply take in the picturesque views while pondering the legend of the Loch Ness monster. Day three is free to explore Edinburgh independently before your journey home.
Take in a Tattoo
FROM £236 PER PERSON
This three-day tour of Edinburgh takes in two of the stand-out events on the UK cultural calendar. Taking place during the city’s famous International Festival, visitors will have the chance to enjoy world class comedy, music and theatre, including some of the finest acts and performers on the circuit today, as well as emerging and untried stars. Then comes the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the largest gathering of military musicians anywhere in Britain. Staged against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, it features a range of performers with the highlight being the spine-tingling sights and sounds of the Massed Pipes and Drums. Please note, this tour does not include travel or accommodation.