Stirling Castle, Whisky & Kelpies Tour starting Edinburgh

Edinburgh , Scotland

Stirling Castle, Whisky & Kelpies Tour starting Edinburgh

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(134 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Our unique 5-star tours, as awarded by the Scottish Tourism Board, offer the chance to explore and experience Scotland in the perfect setting. You will be accompanied by our knowledgeable guides who have a wealth of stories, myths, and legends to entertain you with, and of course, we welcome questions!
We operate our tours in an 8-person capacity to allow you the freedom to spend more time 'sight-doing' as opposed to sight-seeing.

What a wonderful tour you’re choosing. The Stirling Castle, Kelpies, Loch Lomond, and Whisky Distillery tour is designed to give you a fantastic overview of Scotland, all packed into one beautiful day.

Available options

Stirling Castle, Whisky & Kelpies Tour starting Edinburgh

What's included

An experienced, knowledgeable fun guide

Driving and Walking Tour, we get out and experience the beautiful sights

Transport in an air conditioned 8 seater minibus

Travel around the stunning Scottish Highlands

Small group active sight-seeing tour

Guided short hikes throughout the day

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your expert Tour Guide will take you over to Stirling Castle, one of the most historic Castles in Scotland. Besieged by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1746 during the Jacobite Uprising (Think Outlander) it has connections also to Mary Queen of Scots and swapped hands between the Scots and the English during the Wars of Independence (Think Braveheart) You’ll get the chance to visit the castle and learn all about what makes this castle so significant.

Stop 2

You’ll be exploring in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and hearing all about the Highland boundary fault line and how the land crashing together in this exact location millions of years ago has created the beautiful landscape renowned the world over. Your guide will share stories of history, legend, wildlife, and much more and explain why this area of Scotland is such a special location.

Stop 3

Your guide will quench that thirst of our “water of life” and get you over to Glengoyne Distillery where you’ll have the freedom to enjoy a guided Whisky Distillery Tour and see how Scotch Whisky is produced and even sample a wee dram or two to warm you after the hike.

Stop 4

These mythical creatures are prevalent in Scottish waters and depending on what you believe can cause a lot of havoc to unsuspecting locals.
The origins of the kelpie are believed to be rooted in human sacrifices to the water gods however this concept eventually died out and the story of the kelpie was then used to keep children from playing too near to lochs and dangerous rivers.

Stop 5

Start your tour in the most beautiful of cities, Edinburgh

Visit the gorgeous wee town in the Highlands of Scotland and go for a scenic hike with in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Travel through the beautiful village of Drymen in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Travel through the quaint wee town of Croftamie as you get ready to drink whisky at a Highland Whisky Distillery

Travel towards your Highland Whisky Distillery

Travel from Stirling Castle to the beautiful Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

What's not included

No food or drinks included

Entry fees to Activities

Gratuities

Hotel pick up or drop off

Stirling Castle Approx £21.50 Pay upon Arrival at Castle

Glengoyne Distillery approx £22 pay upon arrival to Distillery

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

82 reviews

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4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

52 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Our Tours are for ages 12 and up.

Minimum numbers apply. We have a Guaranteed Departure Policy which ensures the Tour will go ahead, as soon as 2 travellers book on to our tour. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative date or full refund

Our tours operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. We recommend a pair of walking shoes/boots, dressing in layers, and waterproof clothing.

Meeting point

Meet us outside the Jolly Botanist.
Check in 15 minutes before tour start time.
Our van will have the Experience Scotland's Wild logo on it.
If you're running late please call us.

Important notes

• Check-in, 15 minutes before Tour Start Time
• Meet at the front of the Jolly Botanist, 256-260 Morrison St, Edinburgh EH3 8DT, UK
• Guide will need to leave at the tour start time
• Please look out for a Van with the Experience Scotland's Wild Logo on the front
• If you think you may be late, please call us as soon as possible on +441389 513467

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Historical 2-3 hours £18 (adult), £11 (child)

Royal Mile

A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Several hours to explore fully Free to walk, attractions vary

Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours (hike) Free

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.

Historical 2 hours £19 (adult), £10 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Irn-Bru

Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.

Drink Contains caffeine and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Arthur's Seat Kayaking on the Water of Leith Cycling the National Cycle Network Afternoon tea at The Dome Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Strolling along Princes Street Gardens Exploring the National Museum of Scotland Visiting the Scottish National Gallery

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket

By bus

Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town Leith

Day trips

Lothian

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day

Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Fife

30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day

Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.

Stirling

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August Edinburgh International Festival • August Hogmanay • December 31

Pro tips

Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture