13 Scotland's Far North & the Orkneys

CULZEAN CASTLE is a cliff-top masterpiece perched on the Ayrshire cliffs, rising above a world of woods, beaches and secret follies. Designed by Robert Adams in the late 18^th century the castle is filled to the turrets with treasure that tell the stories of the people who lived here.

Image courtesy of Visit Britain-Visit Scotland

AYR is a popular seaside resort, complete with charming sea front, with a fantastic esplanade and long sandy beach. The town has a rich history being founded as a market town and port back in the 13^th century.

THE ORKNEY ISLANDS consist of 70 individual islands, of which only 20 are inhabited. Once on the island we will be joined by a local guide and highlights will include:

Churchill Barriers – created in a time of conflict but now serve as vital links between island communities and have become as iconic as many of Orkney’s more ancient landmarks.

Scapa Flow – the body of water sheltered by the islands of Mainland, Graemsay, Burray, South Ronaldsay and Hoy.

Skara Brae – a remarkable 5,000 year old village, perfectly preserved in sand until it was discovered in 1850. See ancient homes fitted with stone bed enclosures, dressers and seats.

Italian Chapel – this beautiful chapel was transformed from two Nissan huts by Italian prisoners of war during WW2.

The CASTLE OF MEY was owned by the late Queen’s Mother since 1952. It stands on rising ground about 400 yards from the sea and overlooks the Pentland Firth and the Orkney Islands. From a distance, its jutting towers and turrets are strikingly typical of the 16th century. Outside explore the unique and romantic garden.

JOHN O’GROATS, the small coastal Highland village which combines dramatic, unspoilt scenery and fascinating wildlife. And is, of course, the famous starting or finishing line for the length of Britain walk

The ‘Fair City’ of PERTH, nestled between two large parks, is set on the banks of the River Tay. Discover elegant Georgian townhouses, cobbled streets, medieval spires along with many monuments, art galleries and museums.

SCONE PALACE, original home of the Stone of Scone, its the iconic Crowning Place of Scottish Kings, including Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II. Explore stunning state rooms and see where Queen Victoria and Prince Albert dined during their visit in 1842. Outside explore the maze, Walled Garden and Victorian Pinetum.

BLACK WATCH MUSEUM Immerse yourself in the extraordinary history of The Black Watch. From its early years keeping “watch” over the highlands to the French Wars, First and Second World Wars and more recent conflicts, the regiment has witnessed and contributed to many key moments in world history.