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FalkirkCastle & palace tours

Our most recommended Falkirk Castle & palace tours

From Edinburgh: Stirling Castle, Kelpies and Loch Lomond

1. From Edinburgh: Stirling Castle, Kelpies and Loch Lomond

On this incredible tour, we explore the beautiful Scottish Highlands seeing castles, lochs, sculptures and perhaps some ‘Hairy Coos’ along the way. Departing the historic Royal Mile on an air-conditioned bus (16-34 seats) we head towards the iconic Kelpies, where you can take a close up look at these magnificent sculptures. We make our way towards Balloch, situated to the south of Loch Lomond’s Bonnie Banks. Here you can explore and take an optional hour-long boat cruise on the loch. Departing Loch Lomond we head towards the quaint village of Aberfoyle before exploring the picturesque Duke's Pass. Passing through Callander we make our way to Stirling where you can either take a stroll around the city centre or visit the historic Stirling Castle. Heading back we stop to catch a glimpse of the famous 3 bridges that span the River Forth before returning to Edinburgh *Boat cruise and entry to Stirling Castle are paid for on the day and are not included in the price of the tour.

From Edinburgh: Outlander, Palaces and Jacobites Tour

2. From Edinburgh: Outlander, Palaces and Jacobites Tour

Step into the story and witness the scenic landscapes and ruins from the TV show "Outlander" on this day trip from Edinburgh. Travel in a comfortable bus and see the village of Cranesmuir and the Tuilyies Standing Stones. Board your bus in Edinburgh's Royal Mile and head to Midhope Castle. Explore this 16th-century Tower House, which served as the backdrop to Lallybroch; Jamie Fraser's family home. Next, head to Blackness, home to Blackness Castle, an optional extra on this tour. The castle is used to represent Fort William in the series. Learn why this castle is known as "the ship that never sailed". Following in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie, your Outlander tour travels northwest to the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow. Stop to take a photo of Linlithgow Palace, Outlander's Wentworth Prison. Explore the town, purchase refreshments, and learn about this palace's history as a relaxing retreat for the Royal Family on journeys between Edinburgh and Stirling Castle. Continue to the Royal Burgh of Culross. a tiny 17th-century village on the coast of Fife. The gardens here feature in Claire's herb garden and the Mercat Cross in Outlanders' Cranesmuir Village. Enjoy plenty of time to stroll through this picturesque town and visit the quaint Biscuit Café. Next, head to Falkland. This small village in Fife served as the set for Inverness in Outlander, where Claire and Frank arrive on their second honeymoon. Spend time exploring the small village, enjoy refreshments, and optionally visit Falkland Palace and Gardens. Finish your tour with a stop in South Queensferry for photos and a stunning view over the Firth of Forth before returning to Edinburgh.

From Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour

3. From Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour

Explore the Scottish Highlands and admire its spectacular scenery on a guided tour from Edinburgh. Discover more about Scottish historical figures and events with stops at Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and Kelpies. Depart Edinburgh and travel through the historic grace of Linlithgowshire. Your guide will help you spot Linlithgow palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. On the way to Loch Lomond, make a stop at the Kelpies Monument. These two horses’ heads stand as a testament to the horse power that drove the industrial development of Central Scotland. From here you head to the shores of Loch Lomond, which is Scotland’s largest loch and is protected as Scotland’s first National Park. This is the perfect place to enjoy a walk along the ‘bonny banks’ and take in fantastic views of the mountains. This tranquil area was once the home of Scotland’s famous highland folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor. By spending time on the trails by the loch you’ll be walking in the footsteps of one of Scotland’s greatest legends. Head into the Trossachs or ‘The Highlands in Miniature’, where the Lowlands meet the Highlands. See steep mountains, shimmering lochs, and thick forests. You stop for lunch in the heart of the National Park then continue to the city of Stirling where you can visit one of Scotland’s most magnificent castles. You can choose to take in the views from inside and understand why this castle was so instrumental in Scottish history. From here, make a short journey back to Edinburgh via Kelpies before arriving back in the capital.

From Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies

4. From Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & The Kelpies

We depart Edinburgh at 8.45am and head west towards Falkirk where you’ll have the chance to ‘ooh’, ‘aah’, and, um, ‘nay’, at the world’s largest equine sculptures, the Kelpies. Each 30-metre-high horse head sculpture is made from 300 tonnes of structural steel and designed by Scottish sculptor, Andy Scott. Our adventure takes us to the ‘Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond’ for woodland walks and stunning views. We stop at Balmaha Highland village and admire Scotland’s most southerly munro, Ben Lomond, on the way. The afternoon takes you to one of the largest and most significant castles in Scotland, both architecturally and historically. Stirling Castle sits atop Castle Hill and was central to William Wallace and Robert the Bruce’s Wars of Independence. After a day full of exploration, we return to Edinburgh early evening at approximately 5.30pm.

Edinburgh: Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Tour

5. Edinburgh: Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Tour

Embark on a guided day tour to Stirling Castle, Kelpies, Loch Lomond, and the Glengoyne Distillery, departing from Edinburgh. Get an overview of Scottish history and culture as you explore some of the country's most famous landmarks. Depart from Edinburgh and travel first to Stirling Castle. Discover the secrets of this historic castle, which was the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots and James VI. It is situated overlooking the River Forth, at the meeting point between Lowlands and Highlands. Visit the Royal Palace of the castle and witness lavish decor from the 1500s. Visit the last Royal Scottish building at Stirling, The Chapel Royal, and learn how Stirling castle is linked to famous names like King Robert the Bruce, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and the Jacobite uprising. From Stirling Castle, you will then visit the banks of Loch Lomond. Take a short hike on the shores and hear all about local legends along with the history, wildlife, and culture of Trossachs National Park. Learn more about the Vikings that landed and colonized this area many years ago. After hiking the banks of Loch Lomond, head to Glengoyne Distillery where you’ll get the opportunity to take a tour to learn about the whisky-making process. Discover how they create the famous “water of life” you’ll even get the chance to taste a delicious dram or two. Continue to the Kelpies sculpture in Falkirk and marvel at the almost 100ft work created by Glaswegian Andy Scott. Learn about these mythical creatures that are said to be prevalent in Scottish waters, and who can cause a lot of havoc to unsuspecting locals with their shape-shifting abilities. Finally, relax on the journey back towards Edinburgh. Be dropped off in the city center and say your farewells as you enjoy the rest of your time in Scotland.

From Edinburgh: Scottish Highlands Full-Day Trip

6. From Edinburgh: Scottish Highlands Full-Day Trip

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic landscapes as you embark on your Highland adventure.. You have the freedom to explore and make impromptu stops at any breath-taking viewpoint or charming village that catches your eye. Our tours are fully customisable so can be adapted to suit your needs. We provide executive cars that hold up to 8 passengers and will arrange a pick up and drop off at your hotel or chosen location. All cars are fully Airconditioned and will have water and soft drinks on board for you. Our drivers have vast experience, so will point out all the hidden gems to you and share the local knowledge. Together we'll explore many Castles, Lochs, waterfalls and so much more. So, join me on this adventure of a lifetime. Itinerary - 1) Queensferry Crossing - we'll stop by the Queensferry Crossing to see the 3 bridges. -Rail Bridge was the first of the 3 bridges, built in 1890. -Forth Road Bridge built in 1964 and was the fourth longest in the world at the time. -Queensferry Crossing built in 2017 at 1.7 miles. It’s the longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge in the world (10 minutes) 2) Blackness Castle - Used in series 1 of Outlander Blackness Castle is a 15th-century fortress, near the village of Blackness, Scotland, on the south shore of the Firth of Forth. Many high-status prisoners were held here in later medieval times. Option to go inside for a tour on request. (15 minutes) 3) The Kelpies - 100ft tall horse-head sculptures. Built 2013 between Falkirk and Grangemouth. 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 the lochs and dangerous rivers (20 minutes) 4) Callander, Scotland - beautiful Roman town known as the gateway to the Highlands. We'll explore Mhor Bread Bakery - freshly made sourdough and legendary pies (45 minutes) 5) Callander Drinks Company - drinks company set up by enthusiastic drinks geeks! We can pop in for a Whiskey or Gin tasting or a browse around the shop. (45 minutes) 6) Kilmahog - Trossachs Visitor Centre is home to three beautiful Highland Cows – Hamish Dubh, Honey, and Holly. We'll admire the wonderful animals and you have the option to feed them too. 7) Falls of Dochart - Located in the pretty village of Killin where we'll stop and get close to the rapids for some beautiful photos (15 minutes) 8) Loch Tay, Loch Tay - We'll drive alongside the exquisite Loch Tay. It is the largest body of fresh water in Perth and Kinross, and the sixth largest loch in Scotland. 9) The Birks of Aberfeldy - We can go for a hike up the steep gorge of the Moness burn which reveals several waterfalls along the way. (1 hour) 10) Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier - Master Chocolatier Iain Burnett is a truffle specialist who has become known as the Highland Chocolatier. (30 minutes)

The Kelpies and Stirling Castle private tour

7. The Kelpies and Stirling Castle private tour

Visit Stirling Castle , an ancient Scottish castle, the amazing Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel in this tour – Normal pickup point is your hotel or Airbnb in Edinburgh city centre. Eight hour private tour around Stirling and Falkirk for up to four passengers. Tours start at 10 am weekdays . Itinerary 8 hour private tour group day trip to Stirlingvisit Stirling Castle , overlooking the most important battle in the Wars of Independence – Bannockburn , and home of the Stewart kings of ScotlandTake in unique views of the historic Stirling Castlethe Kelpies are the largest equine sculpture in the worldthe unique Falkirk WheelSmall private group tour with a maximum of four people We offer a comprehensive service , which includes collection from your hotel , transport to each location , and professional tour guide for the day. 1 The Kelpies The Kelpies are 100 feet high and each one was made from 300 tonnes of steel . The Kelpies are a tribute to the Clydesdale horses used to pull barges along the canals of Scotland in the 19th century . Andy Scott based his design on two Clydesdale horses – Duke and Baron . In five years the Kelpies have had over two million visitors. Kelpies gifts and souvenirs can be bought online . Over 50 gifts available including travel mugs , t-shirts, throw pillows and canvas prints . The Kelpies are the largest equine sculptures in the world. 2 Stirling Castle Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most impressive castles due to its imposing position and impressive architecture. Built by the Stewart kings of Scotland , the castle was completely renovated over a 10 year period which finished in 2011. As the castle is closed for the next 3 months we can only visit the castle from the outside . From Stirling Castle visitors can take in views of the Forth Valley and Ben Lomond , as well as two of Scotland’s most important battle sites – Stirling Bridge (1297) and Bannockburn (1314). The castle is at the head of Stirling’s historic old town.Like Edinburgh Castle , Stirling sits on a volcanic rock dominating the city skyline . Stirling Castle is not only one of Scotland’s grandest and most imposing castles, it was also a real favourite with Scotland’s Stewart kings and queens. James IV created the Great Hall, the largest medieval banqueting hall ever built in Scotland, and James V’s Royal Palace, with its lavishly decorated Renaissance façades, was a masterpiece of the period. 3 The Falkirk Wheel Visit the only rotating boat lift in the world . Explore the Falkirk Wheel on our Private Falkirk tours. The Falkirk Wheel replaced nine locks on the Union Canal , saving travellers half a day on the journey to Edinburgh . The Falkirk Wheel is the only rotating boat lift in the world , designed to transfer boats from the Forth and Clyde Canal to the Union Canal . A boat trip over the Falkirk Wheel is available from April to November ( not included in the tour price ) . We stop for an hour at each location .

From Glasgow: Bannockburn & Stirling Castle Private Tour

8. From Glasgow: Bannockburn & Stirling Castle Private Tour

Discover the historic town of Stirling and its iconic castle before heading to Bannockburn, the site of one of Scotland’s most significant battles. This private tour departing from Glasgow offers a unique insight into Scotland's history. Your day will begin with a pickup from your Glasgow accommodation in a private vehicle, before heading towards Stirling. Here, you will explore the magnificent Stirling Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and played a significant role in Scottish history, including the Battle of Stirling Bridge and the Battle of Bannockburn. Admire the stunning architecture and panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside. Next, you will head to the nearby Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre to learn more about the famous battle that took place in 1314. Experience the battle for yourself with the immersive 3D battle game, and explore the interactive exhibits that showcase the weapons, tactics and strategies used by the Scottish and English armies. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off back at your accommodation in Glasgow, or at a central location to explore more on your own. With a knowledgeable and friendly guide and the flexibility of a private tour, this is the perfect way to explore some of Scotland's most iconic historic sites.

Executive Scottish Lowlands Tour

9. Executive Scottish Lowlands Tour

First and foremost, traveling in our spacious executive cars ensures a comfortable and luxurious journey for you and your group. Our vehicles are designed with your comfort in mind, featuring up to 8 passenger seats. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic landscapes as you embark on your Lowlands adventure. -Firstly we'll visit Blackness Castle, a formidable fortress known as the "Ship that Never Sailed". -Its then time to visit the ruins of Linlithgow Palace, which was one of the principal residences of the monarchs of Scotland in the 15th and 16th centuries. -Next stop is the Kelpies. These are 100ft tall horse-head sculptures. Built 2013 between Falkirk and Grangemouth. 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 the lochs and dangerous rivers. -We'll move on now to the Falkirk Wheel, which is a rotating boat lift in Tamfourhill, Falkirk, in central Scotland, connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. -Now its time to explore another Castle. located in Stirling, its one of the largest and most historically and architecturally important castles in Scotland. The castle sits atop an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation. It is surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs, giving it a strong defensive position. Its strategic location, guarding what was, until the 1890s, the farthest downstream crossing of the River Forth, has made it an important fortification in the region from the earliest times. -Wallace Monument is the next stop. The National Wallace Monument is a 67 metre tower on the shoulder of the Abbey Craig, a hilltop overlooking Stirling in Scotland. It commemorates Sir William Wallace, a 13th- and 14th-century Scottish hero. -Then we'll drive to Dunfermline Abbey, an ancient abbey with royal connections. Discover the abbey's rich history, and stroll amidst the ruins. -On our trip home we'll make one last stop at the Queensferry Crossing Bridge for some spectacular photos of the 3 bridges. All tours are customizable to suit your needs.

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What people are saying about Falkirk

Weather wasn’t the best during the time we travelled in Scotland, but Bruce and team had everything organized well so we would have the best experience (out of the terrible weather). Bruce also provided an insightful introduction about the history of Scotland on our journey (with some traditional music on the go!). Fortunately, the weather cleared up when we reached Stirling Castle. The view and free tour was fantastic, definitely recommend heading into the castle. Of course, that would mean we didn’t have time to walk around the streets but we will be sure to do that the next time we return.

This was the best day of our trip. Gillian was so amazing and the best tour guide we've ever had. She knew so much not only about outlander but also about the history of scotland. I learned so many new things today and it was so much fun. The locations we went to all had connections with outlander and scenes were filmed there. It was so nice to see all of it. Can't recommend this tour enough (with Gillian as the guide ofc) !!!!!

We really enjoyed our visit to Loch Lomond and the surrounding area. During our stop for lunch we were able to explore some nearby walking paths. The tour of Stirling Castle was definitely worth doing. Overall we got some great pictures and the weather was really nice for the time of year. Our guide Jim shared a lot of information about the area and the history of Scotland, which made the drive more enjoyable.

Its a good tour to spend the day, though wish we had more time at Stirling Castle as there is lots to see and cover in 2 hours (especially for a history fan like me!) We had Declan as our guide. He was very informative and kept us engaged with numerous stories along the way. He also had suggestions for restaurants in the city which were really helpful.

We had a lovely time, Jim our tour guide was exceptional as he explained a lot for us during our travel. He made our journey very enjoyable and we were taken aback from the beautiful scenery Edinburgh and Scotland had to offer. Thank you Jim and thank you to the tour company for facilitating it all. Vas and Eleni.