“This is my own, my native land.”
- Sir Walter Scott, the Lay of the Last Minstrel, 1805.
Discover the landscapes that inspired Sir Walter Scott - poet, novelist, and guardian of Scotland’s romantic soul. This one day tour traces his life from city to countryside, weaving together history, heritage, and the beauty of the beloved countryside that inspired his writings.
Sir Walter was born in Edinburgh - and if your tour starts in the Capital we will pass by the street of his birth in 1771. His ancestral home was the to the South of the city where he spent a significant time at a young age.
The journey continues into the heart of the Scottish Borders, where Sir Walter would build his beloved and magnificent Abbotsford House, near the beautiful town of Melrose. Surrounded by rolling hills, ancient ruins, and the River Tweed, this was the place he called home - and where he penned the stories that shaped Scotland’s national identity.
Timings shown are based on an Edinburgh pickup. We will arrive at your chosen pickup destination 15 minutes before departure at the latest. We suggest that you are also ready to leave 15 mins before departure time. If you are late we can assist but will more than likely have to miss some attractions or stops to allow for this.
Visit Abbotsford House, Scott’s extraordinary dream home. Explore the house, wander the gardens, browse the visitor centre, and enjoy lunch. Alternatively, we can take a short drive into Melrose for lunch and a chance to experience a classic Borders “toon.”
Continue through the Borders countryside to discover more of Scott’s favourite places, including Scott's View.
Continue through the Borders countryside to discover more of Scott’s favourite places, including Smailholm Tower.
Continue through the Borders countryside to discover more of Scott’s favourite places, including Kelso.
Continue through the Borders countryside to discover the serene and atmospheric Dryburgh Abbey, where he was laid to rest.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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