Scottish Borders and the Lake District

Enjoy a 4 day tour offering the rare opportunity to experience the contrasts between rich Scottish lowland culture and the people of England's North country as we explore the wild Border regions and the dramatic Lake District of England. In true mini-tour fashion you'll see iconic highlights including Rosslyn Chapel, Hadrians Wall and Lake Windermere combined with hidden gems such as Jedburgh Abbey and Culzean Castle.

Day 1- Culzean Castle, the Borders and Gretna

Departing Edinburgh we travel south across the Fenwick Moor into the lands o' Rabbie Burns, Scotland's favourite poet and lyricist. Visiting grand Culzean Castle we explore its opulent stately rooms and armoury displays beforewe passing Turnberry Golf course and the birthplace of King Robert the Bruce. As we journey through the rugged landscape from Galloway to Dumfries we learn more of Bruce's fateful quest to become King of Scotland with a visit to his castle at Lochmaben. Finally to Scottish border village Gretna, renowned as the destination of eloping couples from England.

Overnight Gretna (Dinner Included)

Day 2 - Hadrian's Wall and the Pennines

Day 3 - The Lake District and Cumbrian Towns

Today we tour the arresting English Lake District. We travel the length of Lake Windermere before visiting the lakeside Coniston Water with the 'Old Man of Coniston' rising above us. We visit the former home of Victorian philosopher John Ruskin at Brantwood, the house, gardens and estate reflect the wealth of cultural associations associated with Ruskin's legacy. Then to the charming village of Grasmere , where it will be possible for you to visit Wordsworth's Dove Cottage or simply enjoy a gentle stroll. We take the gorgeous country route to Keswick and will enjoy stunning panoramic views across the lakes and valleys from roadside hill-top vantage points. Arriving in the popular town of Keswick, we have time to explore its shops before returning to our lakeside accommodation.

Overnight Windermere (Dinner Included)

Day 4 - Jedburgh Abbey and Rosslyn Chapel

This morning we take a stunning drive to the charming town of Kendal , famous for its Kendal Mint Cake, before passing through more dramatic scenery along Liddlesdale to one of the most important border towns, the Royal Burgh of Jedburgh in the south of Scotland. Discover its wealth of historical and architectural jewels - including the 900 year old Jedburgh Abbey , one of Britain's most important ancient monuments. We continue through lowland towns to visit a 'must-see,' the attractive Rosslyn Chapel , featured in Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code. As we arrive in Edinburgh we marvel at its spectacular panorama before we complete our tour.

Return to Edinburgh early evening.

Optional Extras

• Pre or post tour accommodation.
• Take the tour as part of an extended Edinburgh city break.
• Rail tickets to/from Edinburgh

Tour Itinerary

Prices

Dates and Rates

Departs Edinburgh every other Monday throughout 2010 season.

Prices are per person, land only based on 2 sharing a double/twin room. Single supplements apply. Please ask for other currencies.

What's Included

Maximum group size 16 passengers!

• 3 nights in unique and traditional accommodation
• All transport (by minicoach) and fuel costs.
• Services of your driver/guide-companion.
• Full English/Scottishcooked breakfast daily.
• 2 x three course evening dinners
• Entrance fees to attractions visited as follows:

1. Culzean Castle
2. Brantwood House & Garden
3. Jedburgh Abbey
4. Rosslyn Chapel

Images