Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour Including Admission

Setting out on a captivating day trip from Edinburgh, the Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Visitors will be mesmerized by the towering Kelpies sculptures, enjoy the serene landscapes of Loch Lomond, and explore the rich heritage of Stirling Castle. With convenient transportation and inclusive admission, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the heart of Scotland’s iconic landmarks.

Key Points

• The tour includes admission to Stirling Castle, a top attraction known for its connections to Scottish historical figures like Robert the Bruce and William Wallace.
• Guests can explore the Kelpies, two 30-meter-tall horse-head sculptures made of stainless steel, during a stop in Falkirk.
• The tour provides a scenic drive through Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, with an opportunity to enjoy the majestic views and peaceful atmosphere.
• The tour is operated using a comfortable, top-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, with a maximum capacity of 16 passengers.
• The tour departs promptly at 9:15 am from the Edinburgh Bus Station, and the duration of the interior tour at Stirling Castle is 1.5 hours.

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour Including Admission," departs from Edinburgh, Scotland and provides a full-day exploration of some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.

With a maximum of 16 passengers, the trip is led by an English-speaking driver-guide and travels in a top-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach.

The tour starts at 9:15 am from the Edinburgh Bus Station, allowing visitors to visit the renowned Kelpies, scenic Loch Lomond, and the historic Stirling Castle.

Admission to Stirling Castle is included, and the tour provides a flexible cancellation policy and payment options.

Highlights of the Kelpies

One of the first stops on the tour is the Kelpies, which are one of the largest equine sculptures in the world. These 30-meter-high horse head sculptures were designed by sculptor Andy Scott and are a captivating sight. Visitors can take photos from various angles to capture the impressive scale and intricate details of the structures. The Kelpies also offer a brief history lesson on the industrial development of central Scotland. Check out these key facts about the Kelpies:

Exploring Loch Lomond

After exploring the impressive Kelpies, the tour continues with a scenic drive through Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

Passengers are treated to stunning views of the 22-mile-long loch’s eastern shore, with the majestic Ben Lomond as the backdrop.

The tour makes a 1-hour stop at Loch Lomond, allowing visitors to soak in the serene beauty of the area.

Whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll, admiring the views, or exploring the nearby shops and cafes, this stop provides a peaceful respite before continuing on to the next destination, Stirling Castle.

Discovering Stirling Castle

Following the scenic drive through Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, the tour arrives at the next stop: the historic Stirling Castle. Included in the admission, visitors enjoy a 1.5-hour interior tour, avoiding long ticket lines.

The castle holds notable historical significance, with associations to figures like Robert the Bruce and William Wallace.

The tour experience at Stirling Castle includes:

1. Exploring the lavishly decorated Royal Apartments.
2. Admiring the views from the castle’s iconic towers and walls.
3. Learning about the castle’s role in Scotland’s tumultuous past.
4. Capturing stunning photographs of the impressive architecture and surrounding landscape.

Transportation and Logistics

Travelers on the Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour can expect to travel in a comfortable, top-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach with an English-speaking driver-guide.

The tour has a restricted luggage allowance of 14kg per person, one piece similar to an airline carry-on plus a small personal item.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation, and the minimum age is 5 years.

Guests can enjoy a full-day trip with a 09:15 am start time, departing from the Edinburgh Bus Station.

Flexibility is offered, as travelers can reserve now and pay later.

Pricing and Offers

The Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour is priced from $95.26 per person, down from the original price of $105.85. This offers excellent value, especially considering the included admission to Stirling Castle.

Plus, the tour provides the following special offers:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
2. Flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
3. Maximum group size of 16 passengers for a more personalized experience.
4. Luggage allowance of 14kg per person, similar to airline carry-on.

These special offers and pricing make this tour an attractive option for travelers seeking a comprehensive and well-curated experience in Scotland.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

According to 1,165 reviews, the Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour has earned a solid 4.7 rating.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable and entertaining guides, appreciating the scenic views and well-timed stops. However, some wish for more time at certain locations.

While the overall experience at Loch Lomond and the Kelpies receives mixed reviews, the historical significance of Stirling Castle leaves a lasting impression.

Customers also note issues with missed tours due to incorrect meeting point information, a detail the tour operator should address.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip, it’s essential to note that the tour departs from the Edinburgh Bus Station, Gate J and Gate K, in St Andrew Square.

The tour comes with a 14kg (31lbs) luggage allowance per person, plus a small personal item. Arriving on time is crucial, as the mini-coach departs promptly at 9:15 am.

Here are a few key considerations:

1. Arrive early to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process.
2. Pack light to avoid any issues with the luggage restrictions.
3. Familiarize yourself with the meeting point to avoid any confusion or missed departures.
4. Be prepared for a full-day adventure filled with stunning scenery and historical landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Layering is recommended, as the weather can be changeable in Scotland.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks for the tour. There’s a lunch break, so you can enjoy your own packed meal or snacks. Just be mindful of any restrictions at the tour sites.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?

The minimum age for this tour is 5 years old. There are no specific age restrictions for children, but the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the length and activities involved.

How Much Time Do We Have at Each Location?

The tour allows 1 hour at Loch Lomond, a brief photo stop at the Kelpies, and 1.5 hours for an interior tour of Stirling Castle. The exact time spent at each location may vary depending on the tour schedule and traffic conditions.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer customization options, but it provides a set itinerary and experience. Travelers can’t adjust the time spent at each location. However, the tour allows flexibility in terms of lunch plans and personal items.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour from Edinburgh provides a comprehensive exploration of Scotland’s iconic landmarks. Visitors will marvel at the towering Kelpies, enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Loch Lomond, and uncover the rich history of Stirling Castle. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an unforgettable day trip that showcases the very best of Scotland’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.