Mary Queen Of Scots Private Day Tour

Hotel Pick-up
Your own personal guide will pick you up right outside your hotel, usually arriving 10 minutes before your tour begins, ensuring a warm and seamless start to your experience.

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Linlithgow Palace
The most fitting place to officially start the tour is where it all began: Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1542. From the moment she was born, Mary Stewart's life was one of intrigue and tragedy, chequered with romances and family betrayals. No doubt you've heard her story through Hollywood movies, television series and books, yet the fascination with Mary, Queen of Scots, continues to grow every day – and we guarantee your guide will have a few more secrets to share about her history and her place in Scottish hearts today.

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The Kelpies
You'll not be short of sights to see. Your driver will point them out and share a few stories about their history. The first to note: The Kelpies. Silhouetted against the sky, these impressive sculptures are a true tribute to Scotland's myths and legends. You'll hear the tales of how these shape-shifting water creatures haunt the local rivers.

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The Wallace Monument
You'll venture further north towards the City of Stirling. Before arriving, you'll pass by a dedication to another famous Scot: William Wallace. Standing proud against the backdrop of Stirling's countryside, the Wallace Monument is a symbol of strength and passion for Scotland. His story has been forever immortalised by the Hollywood film Braveheart, and continues to capture the hearts of people all over the world.

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Stirling Castle
From the Wallace Monument, your guide will point out Stirling Castle, sitting high on Castle Hill. You'll be driven right up to the gates, where you can take in a spectacular view over the City of Stirling. Upon entering the castle, you'll be met with costumed characters who will transport you back to 16th-century life, showing you Mary's childhood home and how the castle would have looked at that time. Stirling Castle is arguably one of the most significant places in Mary Stewart's history. Aged just nine months, Mary was crowned Queen of Scots — the ceremony was conducted in September 1543 in the Chapel Royal of Stirling Castle, and was the first time the Honours of Scotland were used.

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Lunch
Your guide will provide you with a variety of lunch options, ensuring there's something to suit every taste and dietary preference.

Falkland Village
On the way to Falkland Palace, you'll pass through Falkland itself, a beautiful and historic village which was also used as a filming location for the much-loved 'Outlander' series. You might recognise it as "Inverness" in the opening scenes, where Claire and Frank arrive for their second honeymoon. As you travel through the village, you'll catch sight of our next destination: Falkland Palace.

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Falkland Palace
Falkland Palace was used as a royal hunting lodge by Mary, Queen of Scots. She was enchanted by the palace and its extensive formal gardens, where she would often pursue her hobbies of falconry, hunting, archery and tennis. Falkland Palace is actually home to the world's oldest surviving royal tennis court, so you'll be able to see where Mary Stewart played throughout her life.

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Loch Leven
As you travel back to Edinburgh, you'll witness the wild and natural beauty of the Scottish countryside once more. Driving through rolling hills and towering mountains, you'll pass by the still and beautiful waters of Loch Leven. A fantastic picture opportunity – and a breathtaking end to your tour, with memories that will last a lifetime.

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Drop-off
Sit back and relax as your personal guide drops you back at your hotel, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free end to your journey.