Visit the rolling, beautiful hills of the Scottish Borders and hear tales from your guide about the infamous Border Reivers who raided villages and settlements in this part of the country for centuries.

You’ll see for yourself why Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s greatest cultural figures, loved this landscape. Learn all about Scotland’s Outlaw King, whose heart is said to be interred in Melrose Abbey.

Across the English border, in the heart of the Northumberland coast lies a sanctuary steeped in history and mystique: Holy Island. Nestled amidst windswept landscapes and surrounded by the ebb and flow of the North Sea, this tiny isle is a treasure trove of ancient wonders and spiritual significance. Step onto its shores and be transported through time, where the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory stand as silent sentinels to centuries of faith and resilience.

*Please note that access to Holy Island is dependent on low tide, some days we visit Holy Island in the afternoon and Bamburgh in the morning.

Then, cross the English border and head to the magical Alnwick Castle. See where Harry Potter learned to fly and play Quidditch and take part in the famous broomstick training sessions with the resident Wizarding Professor. There is something for everyone in this historic fortress which has links to the Norman Conquests, wars of independence, War of the Roses and Oliver Cromwell.

Late afternoon, we depart Alnwick and travel North along the rugged ‘Viking Coast’ towards the Scottish border. 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.

From here it is back to Edinburgh for approximately 6:30pm.