From

$ 453 / adult

A scenic view of a coastal cliff with a historic ruin, surrounded by lush greenery and a pathway leading to the beach.

Peer beyond Scotland’s castle walls and chase stories that echo in courtyards

Itinerary

Depart Edinburgh and head for the homes of the ancient Scottish royals

Day 1 - Falkland Palace & St Andrews
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.45am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

St Andrews Coastline

Morning

Journey to Falkland, the Kingdom of Fife

Say goodbye to Edinburgh as we embark on a journey through Scotland's rich history. We cross the Queensferry Crossing, taking in views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as we travel through the Kingdom of Fife. This verdant region, characterized by rolling hills and fertile farmlands, was once an ancient Pictish kingdom and later played a significant role during the Middle Ages.

Mid Morning

Falkland, Fife

Your first stop of the day is Falkland Palace, originally built as a hunting lodge for Scottish kings before being transformed into a more lavish residence. During her time here, Mary Queen of Scots would play tennis on the world's oldest tennis court, which you can still see in the palace gardens. Follow in the footsteps of this tragic heroine as you explore the palace or wander through the medieval village of Falkland, which is also featured in the television show Outlander.

Afternoon

Free time and lunch in St Andrews, journey to Dunnottar Castle

Next, we head to the medieval town of St Andrews, home to Scotland's oldest university, an iconic golf course, and the ruins of a cathedral and castle. We stop for lunch, giving you time to explore. You can try local ice cream at Jannetta's Gelateria, visit the famous Old Course, wander through the ancient ruins, or stroll along the beach. Afterward, we continue north through the lush countryside to Dunnottar Castle. Perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the North Sea, this ancient fortress offers a stunning mix of history and natural beauty, with stories of defiance and endurance woven into its rugged stone walls.

Early Evening

Journey to Aberdeen, free evening

We head north along coastal roads, with sweeping views of the North Sea and lush, rolling farmland. As we approach Aberdeen, the "Granite City," the scenery transforms from rural landscapes to a skyline of historic gray-stone buildings and vibrant urban life. We'll settle in here for the night, with the evening free for you to explore as you wish.

Accommodation

Aberdeen

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking during checkout. Simply select our Free reservation service Reserved by Rabbie’s™ & we will make a reservation on your behalf. Payment is made at check-in directly to the accommodation provider. Alternatively you can choose to reserve your own accommodation. For more information about how accommodation works please see our accommodation guide.

Day 2 - Castle Fraser & Crathes Castle
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.45am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Crathes Castle

Morning

Aberdeen to Castle Fraser

Enjoy a leisurely morning with a late breakfast, as we begin today's adventure a bit later. We'll head to Royal Deeside, a scenic region in Aberdeenshire closely tied to the British royal family and known for its many stunning castles. This area enchanted Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, who made Balmoral Castle their private summer retreat.

Mid Morning

Castle Fraser, Royal Deeside

Our first stop is Castle Fraser, one of Scotland's grandest baronial tower houses, complete with a beautiful 18th-century walled garden. Here you'll find all the hallmarks of a historic tower house: a captivating portrait collection, hidden staircases, and stunning scenery. Dating back to the 1450s, Castle Fraser is steeped in history and has even served as a filming location.

Afternoon

Ballater for lunch and Crathes Castle, Royal Deeside

We'll travel to Ballater for lunch, a charming village along the River Dee surrounded by hills and frequented by the British royal family. Then, it's on to Crathes Castle, with its pinkish façade, turrets, and enchanting gardens. Known as a fairytale castle, it's also reputedly haunted by the "Green Lady." Take your time exploring the castle and its famed June Borders, where colorful blooms offer picture-perfect views of the building.

Early Evening

Journey to Aberdeen, free evening

As evening falls, we return through the scenic landscapes of Royal Deeside and Aberdeenshire, arriving back in Aberdeen for another night.

Accommodation

Aberdeen

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking during checkout. Simply select our Free reservation service Reserved by Rabbie’s™ & we will make a reservation on your behalf. Payment is made at check-in directly to the accommodation provider. Alternatively you can choose to reserve your own accommodation. For more information about how accommodation works please see our accommodation guide.

Day 3 - Fyvie Castle & Culloden Battlefield
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.45am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Culloden

Morning

Aberdeen to Fyvie Castle

Today you can step back in time again as you explore more castles and historic sites, starting with Fyvie Castle.

Mid Morning

Fyvie Castle

This gem of Scottish baronial architecture dates back to the 13th century and is shrouded in mystery, with tales of curses and the ghostly "Green Lady." Fyvie Castle features striking Raeburn portraits, opulent interiors, and a serene loch, making it a fascinating visit.

Afternoon

Elgin for lunch, Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns

We'll continue north through beautiful scenery to Elgin, where we'll stop for lunch. If you are a history lover, make sure to marvel at the intricated carvings of a weathered Pictish stone, standing on the grounds of the ruined Elgin Cathedral. After lunch, we proceed to Culloden Battlefield, the site of the tragic end of the Jacobite Rising. Walking around this eerie, flat landscape, you can reflect on the last battle fought on British soil, a place recognized by Outlander fans as a pivotal setting in the series. A short distance away is Clava Cairns, an ancient complex of ring cairns and standing stones said to inspire the standing stones of Craigh na Dun in Outlander.

Early Evening

Journey to Nairn, free evening

After a day full of discovering Scotland's fascinating past, we journey to Nairn, your overnight location. This charming coastal town is renowned for its beautiful sandy beach, where you can unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere. Be sure to try to catch a stunning sunset over the Moray Firth and try some local specialties.

Accommodation

Nairn

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking during checkout. Simply select our Free reservation service Reserved by Rabbie’s™ & we will make a reservation on your behalf. Payment is made at check-in directly to the accommodation provider. Alternatively you can choose to reserve your own accommodation. For more information about how accommodation works please see our accommodation guide.

Day 4 - Speyside Whisky region & Blair Castle
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.45am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Cardhu Distillery

Morning

Journey to Cardhu Distillery

On your final day, we celebrate the Highlands with a dram of whisky. Heading south to Speyside, Scotland's premier whisky region, we visit Cardhu Distillery, renowned for its rich Speyside malt whisky. Originally a small farm, Cardhu has flourished over 200 years and today is an essential ingredient in Johnnie Walker blends.

Mid Morning

Cardhu Distillery and journey to Blair Castle, Perthshire

Enjoy a guided Flavour Journey tour and whisky tasting at Cardhu, where you'll hear about Helen Cumming's role in the distillery's history and sample three of their signature drams along with a refreshing highball cocktail. We then continue south through the breathtaking Highland scenery, passing the majestic peaks of Cairngorms National Park on our way to Blair Castle in Perthshire.

Afternoon

Blair Castle and journey through the Highlands

Explore Blair Castle, the ancestral seat of the Atholl family, where centuries of history and architectural styles merge. Wander through its opulent rooms, filled with artifacts and stories of guests like Mary, Queen of Scots, and admire its beautiful gardens and parklands. Discover intriguing connections to Mary, Queen of Scots, as you journey through Scotland's heritage.

Early Evening

Return to Edinburgh

Next, among the towering trees of Perthshire, you'll take a final refreshment break in one of the regions' charming towns before continuing south through the rolling hills and fertile farmlands of the Kingdom of Fife before returning to Edinburgh.

What our customers say

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Pick-up & drop-off
Name
Location
Description
Start
Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Boarding starts at 8.30am
Boarding closes at 8.45am
Return - 6.30pm (approx.)
Edinburgh Bus Station Drop Off, George St / St. Andrews Square area, (Within 5 mins of Edinburgh Bus Station), Edinburgh
Driver-guides will confirm an approximate return time to all passengers on the final day of the tour.
Luggage

All passengers are entitled to 1 piece of checked luggage & 1 small carry on bag. Checked luggage will be stowed in the luggage compartment (not assessable until drop off) while smaller bags for personal items (eg medication, water etc) may be taken on board.

Allowance per passenger
Baggage Allowance
Checked luggage
Number of items: 1 Max weight:44lb Max dimensions:24in x 16in x 10in
Baggage Allowance
Carry on for personal items
Number of items: 1 Max weight:10lb Max dimensions:12in x 10in x 4in
Weather

Scotland’s weather is as dramatic as its landscapes, offering everything from misty mornings to glorious sunshine. Every season brings its unique charm, from vibrant spring blooms to golden autumns and snow-dusted Highlands. Come prepared, embrace the adventure, and experience Scotland’s rugged beauty in all its glory!

Spring (March - May)

Spring in Scotland is crisp and unpredictable, with occasional frosts, sunny spells, and light rain showers. Temperatures typically range from 45-55°F (7-13°C). Expect average monthly rainfall of around 2-3 inches, and humidity levels between 70-80%. Clear skies often showcase Scotland’s dramatic landscapes in all their glory.

Summer (June - August)

Scottish summers are mild, with temperatures ranging from 50-65°F (10-18°C). You’ll experience long daylight hours and occasional rain showers. Humidity hovers around 70%, and monthly rainfall is approximately 2.5 inches. Layered clothing is ideal for adjusting to changing conditions.

Autumn (September - November)

Autumn in Scotland brings cool temperatures and stunning, golden landscapes. Early autumn sees temperatures around 45-55°F (7-13°C), dropping as the season progresses. Rainfall increases, and humidity stays around 80%. The brisk air and changing leaves add to Scotland’s natural charm.

Winter (December - February)

Winters are chilly and damp, with temperatures ranging from 35-45°F (2-7°C). Snow may fall in higher areas, but it’s rare in the Lowlands. Rain and wind are frequent, so waterproof clothing is essential. Expect humidity around 80% and around 2.5 inches of monthly rain.

Accessibility

We aim to make your tour as comfortable as possible and accommodate accessibility requirements to the best of our ability. Our buses are maintained to a high standard and our drive guides are trained to provide support to passengers.

Vehicle Types
  • UK tours use 16-seat Mercedes Mini-coaches without toilets.
Entry & Exit Min Coaches
  • Front left passenger door with three 150mm steps.

    • Grab handles on both sides, non-slip treads, and clearly marked step edges.
Seating
  • Standard coach seats, with a step up to the back row.

    • Seat configuration: single seats on the passenger side, double seats on the driver’s side.

    • Three-point seatbelts on all seats (must be worn when moving). Seatbelt extenders available on request.

Child Seating
  • Booster seats available for children under 1.35m (advance notice required).
Accessibility
  • Buses are not wheelchair accessible.

    • Large luggage compartments for manual folding wheelchairs or walking frames (no battery-operated wheelchairs allowed).

    • Staff cannot provide physical assistance. Guests must be able to board and exit independently or with companion assistance.

Accommodation

We offer flexible accommodation options. Please let us know when you make you booking of any specific requirements you have. We love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, which means that in some small villages, your accommodation may be up to a 30-minute walk (approximately 1.4 miles) from local facilities. Taxis are available in all locations and an be booked and paid locally.

Lifts and elevators

Lifts and elevators are uncommon but may be available in some hotels. Ground floor rooms may be available in some B&Bs and hotels. If either is essential, please let us know at the time of booking.

FAQ

Hello curious traveller, are you ready to go beyond with us? Whether you're heading to the Highlands, the Lake District, or further; we know you might have a few questions before setting off on your adventure. Our FAQs are here to help make your journey smooth and stress-free.

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

Do I need a visa or travel authorisation to go on a Rabbie’s tour?

Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality, personal circumstances, and the country or countries you will travel to and transit through. It is your responsibility to ensure you have all relevant documentation required for your selected itinerary and that you meet all formal entry requirements before travelling.

You can find up-to-date and reliable information on the official tourism website of the counties you’re visiting, or from their embassy or consulate.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

Cancellation terms depend on which tour you've booked:

1 Day Tours
You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure.

2 - 9 Day Tours
You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure.

10+ Day Tours
You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure.

Package tours
You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 56 days or more before the tour departure.


If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.


To cancel your booking please email tours@rabbies.com as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Can itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

What is a guaranteed departure?

It's simple: you book, you go. This means we'll never cancel your tour because of a minimum numbers policy.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

We like to keep our coaches small and nimble. This means we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you frequently stop in local towns and villages for comfort breaks.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours. Also, some of our tours that focus on whisky experiences are suitable for travellers aged 18+.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy every country you visit with us. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

How does accommodation work?

Accommodation is a key part of your multi-day tour experience. Where accommodation is not included as part of your tour you will have the free option to have us reserve rooms on your behalf (Reserved by Rabbie's) or server your own accommodation with a venue of your choosing (Tour Only).

Read more about how accommodation works

Accommodation pricing

Where accommodation not included in your tour package, prices will vary per location, time of year and are based on availability. We work with verified 3rd party providers who set their own prices.

You should expect to pay from £80 (€80) per person per night for B&B Ensuite accommodation or from £100 (€100) for a Hotel. Prices are based on multiple occupancy per room. Supplements for single occupancy may apply.

For more details please view our Accommodation Guide

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com , or check out our full FAQs.

Tour Reviews

We're very proud of our tours - but don't just take our word for it. Read our favorite Trustpilot reviews below.