From Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies

Exploring Scotland’s stunning landscapes and rich history has never been easier. With this captivating full-day excursion from Edinburgh, visitors can witness the grandeur of the world’s largest equine sculptures, stroll through the picturesque town of Balmaha, and uncover the secrets of the historic Stirling Castle. From the majestic Loch Lomond to the iconic Kelpies, this journey promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy the heart of Scotland’s natural and cultural wonders.

Key Points

• This full-day excursion departs from Edinburgh and visits The Kelpies, Balmaha in Loch Lomond, and Stirling Castle.
• The tour includes transportation, a live guide, and audio guides in multiple languages, lasting approximately 9 hours.
• Visitors can explore the world’s largest equine sculptures, The Kelpies, and enjoy the picturesque town of Balmaha.
• Stirling Castle, a historic site with significant events in Scottish history, offers guided tours and the opportunity to explore at one’s own pace.
• The tour provides flexible exploration and photo opportunities at each landmark, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour from Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies is a full-day excursion that takes visitors to some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks.

Lasting 9 hours, the tour costs between $60.71 and $67.46 per person. Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour departs from Haggis Adventures, with stops at The Kelpies, Balmaha, and Stirling Castle. Activities include photo opportunities at The Kelpies, sightseeing in Balmaha, and exploring Stirling Castle at an optional extra fee.

Transportation, a live guide, and audio guides in multiple languages are provided.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour begins at Haggis Adventures and features several notable stops.

Visitors will have the opportunity to admire the colossal Kelpies sculptures, explore the charming town of Balmaha, and enjoy the rich history of Stirling Castle.

The itinerary highlights include:

1. The Kelpies – Witnessing the world’s largest equine sculptures, standing 30 meters tall and crafted from 300 tonnes of steel.

2. Balmaha – Spending an hour sightseeing in this picturesque town surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond.

3. Stirling Castle – Discovering the historical significance of this iconic fortress, the site of pivotal battles involving William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.

4. Flexible Exploration – Enjoying the freedom to explore Stirling Castle at one’s own pace, with an optional entrance fee.

The Kelpies

Towering over the landscape, the Kelpies are the world’s largest horse sculptures, standing an impressive 30 meters high and weighing a staggering 300 tonnes. These magnificent steel sculptures, inspired by the mythical water spirits of the same name, are a testament to Scottish craftsmanship and artistry.

| Kelpies Details | | |

|—————–|–|–|

| Height | 30 meters | |

| Weight | 300 tonnes | |

| Materials | Steel | |

| Inspiration | Mythical water spirits | |

| Location | Falkirk, Scotland | |

Visitors to the Kelpies are captivated by their sheer scale and the intricate detailing that brings these mythical creatures to life. The sculptures offer a striking contrast to the surrounding natural beauty of the Forth and Clyde Canal, making them a must-see attraction on any visit to the region.

Loch Lomond

After marveling at the towering Kelpies, the tour continues onward to the serene landscapes of Loch Lomond.

Nestled in the heart of the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond boasts:

1. Picturesque vistas of the lush, forested shoreline.

2. Opportunities to spot local wildlife, including red deer and golden eagles.

3. Charming villages like Balmaha, where visitors can explore local shops and cafes.

4. Breathtaking views of the iconic Ben Lomond mountain, a popular hiking destination.

Visitors can soak in the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty that have made Loch Lomond a beloved destination for both locals and travelers alike.

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Stirling Castle

As the tour continues, Stirling Castle commands attention with its imposing presence. This historic site has witnessed pivotal events in Scottish history, from the Wars of Scottish Independence to the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots. Visitors can explore the castle’s grand halls, admire the stunning architecture, and imagine the battles that once raged within its walls. The castle boasts an array of attractions, as detailed in the table below:

| Attraction | Description |

| — | — |

| Great Hall | Impressive Renaissance-style banquet hall |

| Royal Palace | Opulent royal apartments with Renaissance-inspired décor |

| The Tapestry | Renowned for its intricate, vibrant tapestries |

| Stirling Castle Tours | Guided tours provide insights into the castle’s rich history |

Included Services

The tour package includes a range of services to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers are transported by a modern bus or coach, with a live English-speaking guide providing insightful commentary throughout the journey. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, allowing guests to learn at their own pace.

Plus, all entrance fees to the featured attractions, including Stirling Castle, are covered, eliminating the need for additional payments.

Finally, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have generally provided positive feedback on the tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 61 reviews.

The tour guide, Ali P, received a perfect 5/5 rating for her engaging storytelling and extensive knowledge of Scottish history.

The transportation was also well-received, with a 4.6/5 rating. Customers found the tour to offer good value for money, with a 4.5/5 rating in this category.

Notable reviews praised the stunning Kelpies and informative commentary, despite rainy weather.

Booking and Reservations

Booking and reserving the tour is convenient, with the option to reserve now and pay later. The tour can be booked directly on the tour provider’s website, with secure online payment.

Booking the tour is convenient, with the option to reserve now and pay later via the tour provider’s secure website.

Some key details about booking and reservations:

1. Flexible Cancellation Policy: Customers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

2. Reserve Now, Pay Later: The tour can be reserved without immediate payment, allowing customers to secure their spot before finalizing the transaction.

3. Instant Confirmation: Once booked, customers receive an instant confirmation, giving them peace of mind.

4. Limited Availability: Given the popularity of the tour, it’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, but parents or guardians are responsible for supervising their children throughout the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus, but it’s best to avoid consuming strong-smelling items that could disturb other passengers. The tour operator may have specific guidelines, so it’s advisable to check with them beforehand.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted at Each Stop?

The tour provides dedicated time at each stop, with 30 minutes at The Kelpies, 1 hour in Balmaha, and 3.08 hours in Stirling, including optional extra time to explore Stirling Castle. The schedule allows ample time for sightseeing at the key attractions.

Are There Any Special Requirements for Wheelchair Users?

The tour accommodates wheelchair users. There are ramps and elevators available at the main stops, and the guides are happy to assist passengers with any special needs. Passengers should contact the tour provider in advance to discuss their requirements.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Locations Visited?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs at the locations visited on the tour. Guests can find a variety of local crafts, gifts, and merchandise for sale at The Kelpies, Balmaha, and Stirling Castle.

The Sum Up

Explore the stunning landscapes and historic landmarks of Scotland on this full-day excursion from Edinburgh. Marvel at the towering Kelpies sculptures, learn about the natural beauty of Loch Lomond, and uncover the rich history of Stirling Castle. This captivating tour offers a comprehensive and unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Scotland’s natural and cultural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: