Castles, Palaces and Abbeys of Eastern Scotland

Departing: June 2027 - June 2027

Western Scotland’s castles and abbeys reveal a landscape shaped by power, faith and imagination. This tour explores grand estates, ancient fortresses and sacred medieval sites amid dramatic coastal scenery. Highlights include Culzean Castle, high above the Firth of Clyde, a private tour and afternoon tea at Mount Stuart on Bute and the artistic Kelburn Castle, along with visits to evocative Paisley Abbey and the birthplace of Robert Burns.

Included

Explore Stirling Castle & Glamis Castle, with entrance fees included
All other visits as outlined in the itinerary
Professional Tour Manager
3 nights at the Salutation Hotel, Perth
3 breakfasts & 3 dinners
Private air-conditioned coach travel

Highlights

Admire the romantic splendour of Culzean Castle
Explore the richly decorated interiors of Mount Stuart, followed by a traditional afternoon tea
Visit atmospheric Paisley Abbey, one of Scotland’s most important medieval religious sites
Discover the striking contrast of ancient stone and bold street art at Kelburn Castle

Alastair Walker

A native of Inverness his knowledge of Scotland is wide ranging, from the Northern Isles and the Hebrides to Perthshire, Galloway and the Borders. His specialist subjects include Scottish military history and the railways of Scotland past and present.

Tour Itinerary

We depart from our designated pick-up points and begin our journey into the historic heart of western Scotland, travelling first to the ancient town of Paisley, home to one of the country’s most important ecclesiastical buildings. Paisley Abbey, originally founded in 1163 by Walter FitzAlan, the High Steward of Scotland, has long been a centre of spiritual and cultural life. Following our visit, we continue to the seaside town of Troon and check in to the South Beach Hotel, located just steps from the shore.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Salutation Hotel, Perth

Today, we visit the dramatic Culzean Castle, perched on a clifftop overlooking the Firth of Clyde, with stunning views of Arran. Designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century, this romantic-style castle features turrets, battlements and sweeping views reminiscent of a fairytale fortress. In the afternoon, we explore Scotland’s poetic heritage at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway. We return to Troon for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Salutation Hotel, Perth

This morning, we travel to the Isle of Bute to visit one of Scotland’s most extraordinary stately homes, the magnificent Mount Stuart. Our private guided tour takes us through opulent rooms adorned with stained glass, marble and gilded ceilings, each infused with symbolism and Victorian grandeur. After our tour, we are treated to a traditional afternoon tea and a chance to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this truly unique estate.

Meals: Breakfast, Afternoon Tea, Dinner

Accommodation: Salutation Hotel, Perth

Today, we explore two fascinating and very different castles along Scotland’s west coast. We begin at Kelburn Castle, one of Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited castles and home to the Boyle family since the 12th century. While its core dates back to the 1200s, Kelburn is perhaps best known today for its vividly painted exterior, a bold, modern mural created by Brazilian street artists in 2007. This striking contrast between medieval stonework and contemporary art makes Kelburn utterly distinctive. In the afternoon, we continue to Hunterston Castle, a far more traditional and atmospheric stronghold. Ancestral home of Clan Hunter, the castle dates to the 13th century and retains a sense of quiet dignity and historical weight. A guided tour reveals stories of feudal loyalty, maritime history and clan legacy, a powerful glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. Afterwards, we return to our original pick-up points.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation

Set in the heart of Perth, the historic Salutation Hotel is within easy reach of the city’s shops, theatres and riverside walks. All en-suite rooms include TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and free Wi-Fi, with complimentary toiletries provided. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar, offering a relaxed place to unwind.

Availability & Booking

2027

11th June from $1,465

Call to Book

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