Edinburgh Castles and History Exploration Tour

Explore the castles of the rugged ‘Viking Coast’ within Berwickshire and Northumberland as you cross the Border between Scotland and England. Step back in time at the spectacular Alnwick Castle – the real Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Enjoy the beautiful rolling hills of Sir Walter Scott’s Borders countryside and allow your Guide to immerse you in Scotland’s history with tales of Robert the Bruce, the ‘Outlaw King’.
This tour is ideal for both fans of Harry Potter and history buffs alike, looking to explore a more of Scotland and into Northern England.

Meeting Point

459-461 Lawnmarket

459-461 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2NT, UK

We meet outside Heritage of Scotland, 459-461 Lawnmarket, EH1 2NT.
CHECK-IN IS AT 8 AM, BUS DEPARTS 8:15 AM.

What's included:

• Regular Comfort Breaks
• Experienced 'Hairy Coo' Driver-Guide providing live commentary and story telling throughout

Not included:

• Entry to Alnwick Castle & Gardens (seasonal: late April - late Oct)
• Entry to Bamburgh Castle (seasonal: late Oct - late April)
• No children under the age of 7 allowed

What to expect:

Duration: 10 hours

Holy Island

Holy Island

Next, we set our sights on Holy Island, a place steeped in spirituality and history. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Holy Island boasts the iconic Lindisfarne Castle and the ancient Lindisfarne Priory. Immerse yourself in the serenity of this sacred island, where the interplay of history and nature creates a truly magical atmosphere.

1 hour

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle Drive, Alnwick, NE66 1NQ

It’s then on to the magical Alnwick Castle. A dream come true for Harry Potter fanatics from around the world, you will have plenty of time to explore the corridors, great halls and courtyards of the real school of witchcraft and wizardry, Hogwarts! See where Harry learned to fly and to play Quidditch in the Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. You might even wish to take part in their famous Broomstick Training sessions with the resident Wizarding Professor! (Please note: Alnwick Castle will be closed from October 25th 2024 to late April 2025)

3 hours • Admission Ticket Not Included

The Alnwick Garden

Denwick Lane, Alnwick, NE66 1YU

Some guests may prefer to explore breathtaking Alnwick Gardens, originally developed by the Duke of Northumberland in the 18th Century and redeveloped by a charitable trust over the past 20 years. Or indeed, the charming village of Alnwick itself which is home to the largest second hand book store in the UK.

3 hours • Admission Ticket Not Included

Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle Bamburgh, , Bamburgh, NE69 7DF

We’ll stop in the picturesque village of Bamburgh and enjoy spectacular views of the imposing Castle overlooking the bay. Take yourself back in time and imagine Viking longships attacking this strategic stronghold in the 10th Century! Or, enjoy local ice-cream in the sun as you stroll along the beautiful beach.
Please note: If you join us between the 25th of October and late April 2025 (specific dates to be confirmed) Alnwick Castle will be closed, and the tour will make a longer visit to Bamburgh Castle instead of Alnwick Castle. Here you can explore over 3000 years of incredible history while enjoying fantastic views and sea air. From the 9th of November to the 5th of January, Bamburgh Castle puts on it's annual Christmas Installation which is sure to be bursting with enchantment and joy with something to delight everyone!

1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included

Edinburgh

Edinburgh

On our journey back to Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, you will hear tales from your Guide about the infamous Border Reivers, who raided villages and settlements in this part of the country for centuries – friends to neither the Scots nor the English!
We will drop you off in the city centre, our estimated arrival time is 6:30 PM. Please note that this can be impacted by traffic and other factors outwith our control.

We recommend leaving 2 hours between the expected arrival time and any onward travel or reservations, as we are not able to offer individual drop-offs.

Pass by without stopping