Central Scotland Explorer
A region of historic landmarks, vibrant urban centres and breathtaking scenery where much of Scotland's dramatic history has unfolded.
A region of historic landmarks, vibrant urban centres and breathtaking scenery where much of Scotland's dramatic history has unfolded.
The central belt of Scotland is often overlooked by tourists in their rush for the Highlands – big mistake! This region is so worth visiting for its blend of historic landmarks, vibrant urban centres and breathtaking natural scenery. It is the place that much of Scotland’s dramatic history has unfolded and home to such iconic sights as Edinburgh Castle, The Trossachs, Loch Lomond and more. We have also arranged to take you off the beaten track and enjoy some less well known, but none-the-less fascinating attractions, giving an insight into the ancient wonders and sublime scenery of this captivating region.
ITINERARY
Sunday - Early morning departure from Dorset, with comfort stops en-route, to arrive at our hotel late afternoon - porterage of bags included. After settling in enjoy dinner.
Monday - Visit Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland with an abundance of attractions and beautiful architecture. We shall meet a local guide who will escort the coach on a panoramic tour, tell us the stories and show us the sights. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore the city at your own pace.
Tuesday - Drive north passing Stirling and through Callander to enter the Trossachs - Scotland's first National Park. Affectionately known as The Highlands in Miniature - celebrated for the scenic quality of its landscapes and valued for its rich natural and cultural heritage. Stop at Loch Katerine visitor centre - the beautiful lake is considered the birthplace of Scottish tourism and you can see why. Continue over narrow winding mountain roads to Drymen and alongside Loch Lomond to Tarbet. Here we board a boat cruise on the loch to enjoy the spectacular fjord like scenery, waterfalls and wildlife - what a treat!
Wednesday - Off the beaten track today. Head for the North Berwickshire Coast, an area of vibrant fishing communities, artful smugglers, abundant wildlife and breath-taking landscapes. First stop is the seaside town of North Berwick with its mix of shops and cafes, old harbour and the Bass Rock just off-shore. We include a visit to The Scottish Seabird Centre to explore the wonders of Scotland's seas. Travel further along the coast to the seaside town of Dunbar, which boasts two working harbours and an interesting High Street full of unique shops and a great local museum (free entry). A photo stop at the famous Kelpies, 30 foot high metal horse head sculptures, completes the day.
Thursday - We head southbound, with comfort stops as appropriate, to arrive back in Dorset that evening.
B=Breakfast, D=Dinner
WESTERWOOD HOTEL, CUMBERNAULD
Say “aye” to a genuine Scottish welcome at this stunning 4 star spa hotel situated conveniently between Glasgow and Edinburgh. Classic rooms provide everything you need for a comfortable stay including private bathroom with free toiletries, hairdryer, phone, TV, fridge, iron, tea tray and free wifi. The restaurant is newly refurbished and provides great countryside views while serving superb freshly prepared meals – a substantial Scottish breakfast buffet and 3 course dinner with choices. Hotel guests have free use of the health club which includes an indoor heated pool, jacuzzi, gym and sauna, plus luxury spa treatments* (*extra fee). A well stocked bar and outdoor terrace/garden area provides area for relaxation and socialising. There is a lift to all floors and room service is available.
5 days // £659.00 Per person SRS £180.00
Holiday highlights : All coach travel, 4 nights hotel accommodation, Half board meals, Local guide in Edinburgh, Loch Lomond Cruise, Entry to Scottish Seabird Centre.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Beaminster Area | Convenient local point in Beaminster to be advised |
| Blandford Area | Convenient local point in Blandford to be advised |
| Bournemouth Area | Convenient point in Bournemouth to be advised |
| Branksome Area | Convenient point in Branksome to be advised |
| Bridport Area | Convenient local point in Bridport to be advised |
| Britannia Inn | Britannia Inn, Fortuneswell, Portland |
| Charlestown | The Alexandra Inn, Chickerell Road, Charlestown |
| Chickerell | Bluebird Garage, Chickerell Road |
| Corfe Castle | Convenient point in Corfe Castle to be advised |
| Courtlands | Portland, Courtlands bus stop |
| Dorchester South Station | Dorchester South Station bus stop |
| Dorchester TOT | Top O'Town Car Park (by cafe), Dorchester |
| Easton | Easton Square, Portland |
| Ferndown Area | Convenient local point in Ferndown to be advised |
| Foords Corner | Foords Corner bus stop, Wyke Regis |
| Jestys Avenue | Bus stop end of Jestys Avenue on Littlemoor Road |
| Littlemead | Broadwey, Littlemead bus stop (Swan Inn) |
| Littlemoor Road Finches | Littlemoor Road, The Finches bus stop |
| Lodmoor Hill | Lodmoor Hill Bus Stop (near Post Office) |
| Lyme Regis | Convenient local point in Lyme Regis to be advised |
| Lyndale bus stop | Wyke Regis, Lyndale Bus Stop |
| Nottington | Broadwey, Nottington Corner bus stop |
| Poole Area | Convenient local point in Poole to be advised |
| Poundbury QMSE | Poundbury Queen Mother Square bus stop (Coach heading into Dorchester) |
| Radipole | Spa Hotel bus stop, Radipole |
| Redlands | Redlands, Opposite Garage |
| Ringwood Area | Convenient local point in Ringwood to be advised |
| Rodwell | Rodwell Traffic Lights, Rodwell Rd/Rodwell Ave |
| Sgt Bunn | St Bunn Bakery, Lanehouse Rocks Road |
| Sherborne Area | Convenient local point in Sherborne to be advised |
| Southwell | Portland, Southwell, Opposite Eight Kings Inn |
| St Edmunds Church | St Edmunds Church, Lanehouse Rocks Road |
| St Johns Church | Weymouth, St Johns Church, outside Dentist |
| St Nicholas Church | Southlands Road bus stop on Buxton Road, Weymouth (former St Nicholas Church) |
| Sturminster Newton Area | Convenient point in Stur. Newton to be advised |
| Swanage Area | Convenient local point in Swanage to be advised |
| To be advised | To be advised - Approx. 2 weeks before travel |
| Upton Area | Convenient local point in Upton to be advised |
| Victoria Square | Victoria Square bus stop, Portland |
| Wareham Area | Convenient local point in Wareham to be advised |
| Westwey Road | Westwey Rd, Magistrates Court, Weymouth |
| Weymouth Bluebird | Weymouth, Outside Bluebird Office, K1 bus stop |
| Wimborne Area | Convenient local point in Wimborne to be advised |
| Wool Area | Convenient local point in Wool to be advised |
| Wyke Smuggler | Smugglers Inn, Wyke Regis |
| Yeovil Area | Convenient local point in Yeovil to be advised |
