Two giant metal horse head sculptures at Kelpies monument, Scotland

Privately Guided Day Tour

experienced local guide
/
Door-to-Door Service Included
/
secure with a 25% deposit
Castles
History & Battlefields
Photography & Wildlife

Stirling Castle, Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies Private Day Tour

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Up to
7
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8hrs (9am - 5pm)
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From
Glasgow

Overview

What you will see on this tour.

Your private day tour brings together the remarkable engineering of the The Falkirk Wheel with the majestic sight of the Kelpies and the brutal history of Stirling Castle.

On this trip there is plenty of time to explore amazing architecture and take in breath-taking both natural and man-made wonders while immersing yourself in myths, legends and stories from the past with your very own private guide.

Pickup Info
Every tour includes complimentary door-to-door service. Your guide meets you outside at your hotel (or other accommodation) ready to start your day. At the end of the tour, we drop you back. No meeting points, no hunting for a coach stop - just a relaxed experience from start to finish.

Itinerary

Morning
The Kelpies & the Falkirk Wheel

Hotel Pick-up
Your own personal guide will pick you up right outside your hotel, usually arriving 15 minutes before your tour begins, ensuring a warm and seamless start to your experience.

The Kelpies
Standing an incredible 30 metres tall, The Kelpies are the largest equine sculptures in the world and one of Scotland's most striking landmarks. These two magnificent horse heads, crafted from gleaming stainless steel by sculptor Andy Scott, pay tribute to the heavy working horses that once powered Scotland's canals, fields and industry. Their name comes from the mythical water spirits of Scottish folklore, said to have the strength of a hundred horses. There's time to walk right up to the base, take in their sheer scale, and capture plenty of photographs.

The Falkirk Wheel
Just a short drive away lies another of Scotland's engineering marvels — the Falkirk Wheel, the only rotating boat lift of its kind in the world. This remarkable structure connects the Forth & Clyde and Union Canals, gently lifting boats between the two in a slow, graceful turn. Watch the giant wheel in motion, or if you'd like, take a boat trip aboard it for a truly unique experience.

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

Afternoon
Stirling Castle & Scotland's Heroes

Stirling Castle
Sitting high on Castle Hill, Stirling Castle is one of the grandest and most important fortresses in Scotland. 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 what the castle would have looked like during Mary, Queen of Scots' childhood. 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.

The National Wallace Monument
Towering above the town from its position on Abbey Craig, the National Wallace Monument honours one of Scotland's greatest heroes, Sir William Wallace. From here you can enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding countryside, including the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, where Wallace led the Scots to a famous victory in 1297. A wonderful spot for photographs before the journey home.

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.

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Inclusions

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What's Included
  • Complimentary Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off Service
  • Privately Guided Tour – Just for you and your group
  • Experienced Local Guide Every Step of the Way
  • Luxurious, Premium Mercedes V-Class
  • A Full Day of Touring
  • Fully Customisable - built around you
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Not Included
  • Lunch; your guide will recommend both sit-down and grab-and-go options
  • Attraction Tickets
  • Guide Tip

We'll contact you immediately after booking to help arrange attraction tickets

Customise any tour

We can make any tour custom to your needs and itinrary. Reach our to day and let us shape the perfect trip.

What our Guests say

FAQs

Can we take a boat trip on the Falkirk Wheel?

As the world's only rotating boat lift of its kind, the Falkirk Wheel is a real highlight to watch in motion. If you'd like to experience it from the water, a trip aboard can be arranged, and your guide will run through the choices with you.

How big are The Kelpies, and can we get close to them?

Rising to an astonishing 30 metres, The Kelpies are the largest equine sculptures anywhere in the world. There's time to walk right up to their base, appreciate their sheer scale and take all the photographs you like.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Families tend to love this day. With giant horse sculptures to marvel at, a remarkable feat of engineering to explore and a hands-on castle to enjoy, there's genuine variety here that keeps every age group happily entertained.

What are the highlights of Stirling Castle?

It was here at Stirling Castle that Mary, Queen of Scots was crowned and spent her earliest years. Step inside and you'll find costumed characters who breathe life back into the royal world of the 16th century.

How much walking is involved?

Expect a fairly gentle day on your feet. Each attraction is easy to reach and the walking comes in short, comfortable stretches, keeping the day accessible and enjoyable for the vast majority of guests.

Book your tour

25% deposit to book. We'll remind you when your balance is due (28 days before travel) and send a simple link to pay online.

Group Price:
£
675
We charge in GBP. USD pricing is just a friendly estimate to give you a sense of cost. Your card issuer's exchange rate may differ at checkout.
You can secure your booking today with a 25% Deposit
£368
Group Price:
£
675
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Please contact us if you’d like to customise an existing tour or if you want to create a bespoke tour specifically for you and your group.

Our expert team of advisors are here to help.

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