The Edinburgh: Balmoral Castle and Scone Palace Royal Tour promises an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s regal heritage. Spanning 10 hours, this guided experience whisks travelers from Edinburgh to iconic sites like Loch Leven Castle and Scone Palace. But the crown jewel? Marveling at the summer residence of the Royal family, Balmoral Castle, set against the stunning Highlands backdrop. With flexible itineraries and comprehensive amenities, this tour caters to history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s storied past.
Key Points
- This 10-hour tour explores historic royal landmarks around Edinburgh, including Loch Leven Castle, Scone Palace, and Balmoral Castle.
- The tour is priced at $775.20 per group (up to 6 participants) and includes transportation, bottled water, and a flexible itinerary.
- The itinerary highlights the Forth bridges, Loch Leven Castle, Scone Palace, Blairgowrie, Glenshee Ski area, and Balmoral Castle.
- The tour provides a guided experience, with regular breaks and the opportunity to tailor the itinerary to group interests.
- The tour offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s royal heritage, combining history, culture, nature, and stunning scenery.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This Royal Tour of Edinburgh takes visitors on a 10-hour journey to explore the region’s historic royal landmarks.
Priced from $775.20 per group (up to 6 participants), the tour includes transportation, bottled water, and a flexible itinerary tailored to interests.
Highlights include Loch Leven Castle, Scone Palace, Balmoral Castle, and optional attractions like a distillery and Ballater.
The tour is limited to 6 participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
A small group size of 6 participants and flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
With a mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery, this tour provides a memorable experience for those seeking to discover Scotland’s royal estates.
Looking for more options in Perth Scotland? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a departure from Edinburgh, first stopping at the Forth bridges – a captivating trio of bridges from different centuries.
Next, visitors explore Loch Leven Castle, a refuge for Robert the Bruce and a holding prison for Mary Queen of Scots.
The itinerary highlights include:
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Scone Palace, the ancient crowning place of Scottish monarchs and home to the Murray family, with exotic gardens (open April 1st – October 31st).
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A scenic drive through Blairgowrie and Glenshee Ski area, with an optional chairlift ride (weather permitting).
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Balmoral Castle, the Scottish holiday home of the Royal family, featuring gardens and a ballroom visit (open April 1st – August 10th).
Transportation and Amenities
All transportation to and from the accommodation is included in the tour package.
Participants will be provided with bottled water throughout the day.
The tour is fully guided, excluding paid attractions.
The itinerary is flexible and tailored to the interests of the group.
Regular restroom and coffee breaks are available during the tour.
Visitors can expect a well-organized and comfortable experience as they explore Scotland’s royal estates.
Visitors can expect a well-organized and comfortable experience as they explore Scotland’s royal estates.
The tour combines history, culture, nature, and stunning scenery, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable day in Edinburgh.
Attraction Details
As the tour progresses, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the historical sites of Scone Palace and Balmoral Castle.
Scone Palace, the ancient crowning place of Scottish monarchs, is open from April 1st to October 31st, allowing guests to wander its grounds and gardens.
Meanwhile, Balmoral Castle, the Scottish holiday home of the Royal Family, is open from April 1st to August 10th, providing access to the castle, gardens, and ballroom.
The tour’s flexibility ensures the itinerary is tailored to accommodate these seasonal variations and local attractions.
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Scone Palace: Open April 1st – October 31st
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Balmoral Castle: Open April 1st – August 10th
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Itinerary adjusted to accommodate seasonal changes
Tour Experience
A combination of history, culture, nature, and stunning scenery awaits on this Royal tour of Scotland.
From the ancient crowning place of Scottish monarchs at Scone Palace to the Scottish holiday home of the Royal family at Balmoral Castle, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s rich heritage.
Guests can explore the majestic gardens, indulge in scenic drives through the Highlands, and even visit nearby attractions like distilleries and museums.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable day in Scotland, this Royal tour is an ideal choice.
Exploring the Forth Bridges
The tour begins with a visit to the impressive Forth Bridges – a trio of engineering marvels that span the Firth of Forth.
Participants will marvel at:
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The iconic Forth Bridge, a cantilever railway bridge completed in 1890.
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The adjacent Forth Road Bridge, a suspension bridge built in 1964.
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The newer Queensferry Crossing, a cable-stayed road bridge that opened in 2017.
These bridges, each constructed in a different era, showcase Scotland’s ingenuity and dedication to transportation infrastructure.
The group will have an opportunity to admire the bridges’ sheer scale and architectural prowess before continuing their journey.
Discovering Scone Palace
After exploring the Forth Bridges, the tour continues to the historic Scone Palace, the ancient crowning place of Scottish monarchs.
Visitors can explore the opulent home of the Murray family, surrounded by serene gardens filled with exotic trees. The palace is open from April 1st to October 31st, allowing guests to enjoy Scotland’s royal history.
The scenic drive to Scone traverses the picturesque Blairgowrie and Glenshee Ski area, with an optional chairlift ride offering breathtaking views, weather permitting.
This stop provides a unique glimpse into Scotland’s regal past and the enduring significance of Scone Palace.
Visiting Balmoral Castle
Continuing the royal journey, the tour next heads to the magnificent Balmoral Castle, the Scottish holiday home of the Royal family.
This iconic castle, situated in the stunning Cairngorms National Park, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the private life of the Royal household:
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Stroll through the meticulously maintained gardens and grounds, admiring the breathtaking vistas.
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Step inside the castle’s grand ballroom and explore the opulent interiors, reminiscent of the Royals’ regal lifestyle.
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Discover the fascinating history and cultural significance of this beloved Scottish retreat, open to the public from April to August.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Bring for the Chairlift Ride?
For the optional chairlift ride, visitors should bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes. The weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is recommended to stay comfortable during the scenic ride.
Can I Purchase Food and Souvenirs at the Tour Stops?
Yes, visitors can purchase food and souvenirs at the tour stops. The tour includes stops at Scone Palace and Balmoral Castle, both of which have on-site cafes and gift shops where travelers can buy refreshments and mementos.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for participants of all ages, though young children may find some parts less engaging. The tour provides a flexible and family-friendly experience exploring Scotland’s royal heritage.
Can I Take Photos Inside Balmoral Castle?
Photography is generally not allowed inside Balmoral Castle, as it’s the private residence of the Royal Family. Visitors can take photos of the exterior and grounds, but must respect the rules and policies in place to maintain the privacy of the castle.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour does not explicitly state whether it’s wheelchair accessible. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific details on accessibility accommodations and requirements for mobility-impaired guests to ensure a comfortable experience.
The Sum Up
This guided tour through Scotland’s royal heritage offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the country’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. From the historic Loch Leven Castle to the iconic Scone Palace and the magnificent Balmoral Castle, this experience immerses travelers in the grandeur of Scotland’s royal legacy. With flexible itineraries and comprehensive amenities, it’s the perfect choice for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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