Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, Whisky Distillery & Kelpies Tour from Edinburgh
Discover royal history at Stirling Castle, walk beside Loch Lomond, experience Highland whisky and finish beneath the towering Kelpies on this varied day tour from Edinburgh.
Why You’ll Love This Tour
Royal history, Highland scenery, whisky and modern Scottish art make this one of our most varied day tours from Edinburgh.
Royal Scotland
Explore Stirling Castle
Step inside one of Scotland’s great royal strongholds and discover centuries of kings, queens, conflict and intrigue while exploring the palace, Great Hall and dramatic castle setting.
Loch Lomond
Walk the Bonnie Banks
Get out of the vehicle in Balmaha and explore the shores of Loch Lomond, with the option of walking uphill towards Craigie Fort for panoramic views across the loch.
Whisky & The Kelpies
From Scotch Whisky to Giant Kelpies
Discover Scotland’s whisky-making tradition at Glengoyne before finishing beside Andy Scott’s monumental Kelpies — two 30-metre horse-head sculptures inspired by Scotland’s folklore and industrial heritage.
Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, Whisky & The Kelpies
Four very different stops take you from Scotland’s royal past to the shores of Loch Lomond, a working whisky distillery and one of the country’s most striking modern landmarks.
Stirling Castle
Historic CastleBegin at Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s great royal strongholds. Explore the castle’s Royal Palace, Great Hall and exhibitions while discovering the kings, queens and conflicts that shaped Scotland’s history.
You’ll also have the opportunity to buy lunch at the castle café before continuing the journey.
Balmaha & Loch Lomond
Active SightseeingTravel into Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and stop in Balmaha on the eastern shore of the loch.
Walk along the famous Bonnie Banks or take the steeper option towards Craigie Fort for elevated views across Loch Lomond and its islands.
Glengoyne Distillery
Whisky ExperienceContinue to Glengoyne and discover how Scotch whisky is made, from the ingredients and maturation process to the traditions behind Scotland’s famous spirit.
Depending on the experience available for your departure, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a distillery visit and whisky tasting.
The Kelpies
Modern ScotlandFinish beside The Kelpies at Helix Park near Falkirk. Created by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, the enormous steel horse heads rise around 30 metres above the surrounding landscape.
Hear how the sculptures connect Scottish folklore with the powerful working horses that once helped drive the country’s industrial development.
The itinerary is a guide and individual stops or timings may change because of weather, road conditions, attraction availability or other operational circumstances.
What’s Included & Important Tour Information
Your transport, guide and Loch Lomond walk are included. Castle admission, whisky experiences and meals are paid separately.
Included
- Fun, friendly Scotland driver-guide
- Transport throughout the full-day tour
- Air-conditioned touring vehicle
- Guided Loch Lomond walk
- Visit to Stirling Castle
- Visit to Glengoyne Distillery
- Visit to The Kelpies
- History, stories, myths and legends throughout the day
- Small-group touring with a maximum of 16 guests
Not Included
- Entry to Stirling Castle
- Glengoyne Distillery admission / tasting experience
- Lunch and snacks
- Additional drinks
The itinerary includes a Loch Lomond walk of approximately 45–60 minutes. Part of the optional Craigie Fort route is uphill, so guests should be comfortable walking outdoors for around an hour. This scheduled group tour is for travellers aged 12 and over.
Why Travellers Choose Scotland’s Wild
Small groups, more time outside the vehicle and guides who bring Scotland’s landscapes, history and stories to life.
Small Groups
Maximum 16 TravellersA smaller group means easier stops, more interaction and a more personal experience with your guide.
Active Sightseeing
More Time OutsideWalk beside Loch Lomond and spend meaningful time exploring the places you visit.
Expert Guides
Scotland Brought to LifeHear the history, folklore and stories behind the castle, landscape, whisky and Kelpies.
5 Star Tours
VisitScotland RatedTravel with an established Scottish company recognised for high-quality visitor experiences.
Stirling Castle Day Tour FAQs
The most important things to know about castle admission, the whisky experience, walking and your day from Edinburgh.
Is Stirling Castle admission included?
No. Stirling Castle admission is paid separately from the tour price.
Is the Glengoyne whisky experience included?
No. Distillery admission and whisky tasting are purchased separately.
Keeping this separate provides flexibility over the experience available for your departure.
What is the minimum age?
The minimum age for this scheduled group tour is 12 years old.
If you are travelling with children under 12, contact us about arranging a private tour instead.
How do I secure my booking?
A 50% payment is required when booking.
The remaining balance is automatically collected 8 days before departure.
What is the cancellation policy?
- 8+ days before departure: full refund.
- 4–7 days: 50% refund.
- 3 days or less: no refund.
Do I need to bring lunch?
No. The itinerary includes time to purchase lunch, normally during the Stirling Castle stop.
Where and when does the tour depart?
Check-in is at 8:15am for an 8:30am departure.
Meet outside The Jolly Botanist, 256–260 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8DT.
What time does the tour return?
The tour normally returns to Edinburgh at around 5:50–6:00pm.
Traffic and operating conditions can affect the exact time.
How difficult is the Loch Lomond walk?
Expect approximately 45–60 minutes of walking.
The route towards Craigie Fort includes a short uphill section, so guests should be comfortable walking outdoors for around an hour.
What should I wear?
- Light waterproof clothing
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots
- Warm layers during colder months
- Midge repellent from roughly April–September
- Sun cream on brighter days
Can I bring luggage?
Small rucksacks and handbags are fine. Contact us before booking if you need to bring a suitcase or other larger luggage.
Will there be bathroom breaks?
Yes. Facilities are available at several stops throughout the day, including the major attractions.
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