Castles of Scotland

31 July - 3 August 2026

Journey through Scotland's noble heartland, where ancient castles command sweeping Highland vistas and stately homes preserve the stories of generations. Under the expert guidance of Lady Violet Manners, founder of HeritageXplore, this extraordinary adventure unveils Scotland's most exclusive estates through the eyes of those who call them home. Welcomed as honoured guests by Scotland's most illustrious noble families - the Earl and Countess of Mansfield at Scone Palace, the historic crowning place of Scottish kings; the Earl of Crawford and Balcarres at Balcarres House, seat of one of Scotland's most ancient earldoms; the Earl and Countess of Rosebery at Barnbougle Castle on the Dalmeny Estate; and the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne at Glamis Castle, childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother - guests are invited on intimately personal tours where centuries of Scottish history unfold through the voices of those who have lived it.

Day 1

Edinburgh to Scone Palace

July 31, 2026

The journey begins at Scone Palace, the ancient crowning place of Scottish kings - where Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II were once crowned The elegant 19th-century Palace that stands today was built as the seat of the Earls of Mansfield, and houses an outstanding collection of antiques, paintings, and rare artifacts. Here, guests are welcomed into a home where Scotland's royal heritage and the Murray family's legacy remain very much alive.

Day 2

Scone Palace & Blair Castle

Aug. 1, 2026

Day two begins with a leisurely breakfast at Scone Palace, followed by a stroll through the estate's gardens. Guests are then chauffeured by Polestar to the House of Bruar for lunch and time to explore Scotland's renowned country emporium. The afternoon brings a private, after-hours visit to Blair Castle, where the archivist presents treasures in the library before a drinks reception. The evening concludes with dinner and a second night at Scone Palace.

Day 3

Scone Palace & Glamis Castle

Aug. 2, 2026

Day three begins with a morning drive through the Angus countryside to Glamis Castle, the ancestral seat of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne since 1372, and the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Guests explore the castle's conically roofed corner towers, central stair tower, and dramatic array of projecting turrets, including access to the rooftop battlements for panoramic views across the estate.

Day 4

Scone Palace & Barnbougle Castle

Aug. 3, 2026

Day four carries you to South Queensferry, where Barnbougle Castle sits on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. After taking in the coastal views and the castle’s dramatic setting, guests will gather for a spectacular final dinner within the castle. The evening will celebrate the journey in true Scottish style, before returning to Edinburgh to conclude the experience.