Day Trips & Day Tours from Glasgow

Fancy a brilliant day trip or  day tour from Glasgow ? With this dynamic city being so centrally located in Scotland, there are plenty of historic attractions, castles, lochs, outdoor activities and remarkable landscapes either right on Glasgow's doorstep or a moderate distance away.

Best of all, you've got options when it comes to how to go - you could book an organised tour, hop aboard public transport or take the car to enjoy a road trip! Here are some ideas on how to have a great day out from Glasgow.

tour from glasgow

Find experiences

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this product search form. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

tour from glasgow

Loch Lomond Shores

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

By Tour Bus

An organised one-day tour is often a great way to experience many of Scotland's icons, from breathtaking landscapes to the amber-coloured delights of Scotch whisky.

It's time to re-think what you think you know about coach trips - tour buses are often luxurious and compact, accommodating small numbers for a more personal experience. Many also boast green initiatives which allows them to off-set their carbon emissions.

Find a  day tour from Glasgow .

Tour operators who offer one-day trips from Glasgow include  Timberbush Tours ,  Rabbies Tours ,  Discover Scotland Tours ,   Haggis Adventures  and  Highland Experience . For many, it can take the stress out of travel as you don't have to worry about navigation - instead, soak up the views from the window and listen to your knowledgeable guide tell you stories about the area.

But where do they go, we hear you asking? There are a number of destinations to pick from, depending on what is on offer from the tour operator. You'll find that there are trips which take in  Loch Lomond & The Trossachs ,  Oban  and  Glencoe , and  Perthshire  - some even go as far as  Loch Ness ! Tours follow the most scenic routes and take breaks at viewpoints with stunning views. On some trips, the bus will make a stop at a distillery, where you can take a tour and discover whisky-making secrets.

tour from glasgow

Stirling Castle

With the car, you can enjoy the freedom of the road and can head off in almost any direction.

It's amazing where you can travel to from Glasgow in an hour or two! Help reduce carbon emissions and rent an electric car/vehicle (EV) which you can collect in Glasgow from a company like  365 Luxury Car Hire  which offers a fleet of Teslas.

Find a reliable map of all the EV charge points in Scotland at  ChargePlace Scotland , Scotland’s national EVcharging network; and  Net Zero Nation .

If you're keen to see some of our coastline, head to  Ayrshire  and follow the coastal roads to the impressive  Culzean Castle and Country Park . On the way, plan stops at Ayrshire's seaside towns, such as  Troon . You could return to Glasgow via  Dumfries House , a stunning 18th century house with exquisite gardens.

From Glasgow,  Stirling  and  Falkirk  are less than 40 minutes' drive. In and around these places there is a huge range of fantastic attractions to visit, including  Stirling Castle , the  National Wallace Monument , the  Battle of Bannockburn Centre , the  Falkirk Wheel , and  The Helix , home to The Kelpies by Andy Scott. Make it a round trip by returning via the Trossachs taking in the  Lake of Menteith ,  Aberfoyle  and  Balloch  at the south of Loch Lomond. This route also takes in  Blair Drummond Safari Park  whilst  Doune Castle  is just a short detour.

For a day trip which allows you to see more of those famous bonnie, bonnie banks, head north west of the city and travel along the shores of  Loch Lomond  before heading over the  Rest and Be Thankful pass  to the charming historic town of  Inveraray  on Loch Fyne. It's a splendid drive which takes 1 hour 30 minutes. Instead of returning the same way, you could travel back via  Tyndrum  and  Crianlarich , and visit attractions along the way such as  Cruachan Power Station  and the crumbling  Kilchurn Castle . Why not find  lochs Near Edinburgh and Glasgow  for a fun-filled day out?

That's just the tip of the iceberg - there are plenty more ideas for brilliant  road trips  in Scotland!

tour from glasgow

Cyclists passing Lion Rock

© Kenny Lam

By Public Transport

Scotland's national and local rail and bus networks connect Glasgow with some wonderful places all across the country. 

From Glasgow, it's easy to visit one of Scotland's six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  New Lanark , a restored 18th century cotton mill village, is easily reached by taking a train to  Lanark  and then jumping on a local bus to this fantastic family friendly attraction.

Did you know you can escape to the coast by train in under an hour, and then 'hop' to an island in the Firth of Clyde? It's just a 45 minute train journey to  Ardrossan , and then a 55 minute  ferry crossing  to the pretty  Isle of Arran , often referred to as 'Scotland in miniature'. Once on Arran, you can explore the port of  Brodick , or catch a local bus round the island.

Largs  has been a popular seaside destination for generations of Scots, and today this coastal town still makes for a jolly day out by the sea. The train from Glasgow takes less than an hour. Once you arrive, stroll along the promenade with an ice cream or jump aboard the ferry and take the short crossing to the  Isle of Cumbrae . Here you might want to hire a bike at  Millport  and discover the island on two wheels, or discover Millport's attractions as you wander round the tiny island town.

Or, take the train from Glasgow Central to  Wemyss Bay  where you can catch the ferry to the  Isle of Bute . The ferry arrives in Rothesay where you can get a local bus to the magnificent  Mount Stuart , Britain's most spectacular Gothic house.

Should you be more excited by the thought of seeing Scotland's capital than its coastline, then jump aboard one of the regular train or bus services to  Edinburgh . Lying just 45 miles east of Glasgow, you'll find that it doesn't take long before you are walking over the ancient cobbles of the  Royal Mile , admiring the stunning city skyline from  Arthur's Seat , or exploring world-class attractions such as  Edinburgh Castle  and the  National Museum of Scotland .

Remember, you can use  Traveline Scotland  to help you plan days out by public transport.

Other things you might like

tour from glasgow

48 hours in Glasgow

tour from glasgow

8 hidden gems in Glasgow

tour from glasgow

What's On - Events in Glasgow

Queen's Park, Glasgow

Accommodation in Glasgow

Join our newsletter clan.

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Deals of the Week   Women’s Day   Up to 50% OFF

Scotland Tours & Trips from Glasgow

Find your perfect adventure! We have 38 tours of Scotland that start in Glasgow, Scotland. The most popular month is June, and tour lengths range between 2 and 16 days.

38 Scotland tour packages from Glasgow with 613 reviews

Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness - from Glasgow Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness - from Glasgow

It was really beautiful! And the guide Shelby was fantastic!
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Majestic Scotland (7 Days) Tour

  • Active Adventure
  • Coach / Bus

Majestic Scotland (7 Days)

Highlights of Scotland Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Highlights of Scotland

This was a tour beyond my groups expectations. Everything was done with excellence.

Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes Tour

Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes

  • €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Highlights of Scotland Tour

  • Train & Rail
  • Sightseeing

Bonnie Scotland Tour

Bonnie Scotland

Rosanne was an amazing tour guide. She was so animated and filled with advanced history knowledge. There was never a dull moment with Rosanne and she made it a wonderful experience. I wished we stopped off in Loch Ness longer.

Scottish Royal Tour

Scottish Royal

The tour was very enjoyable. Diane was very knowledgeable and at times humorous. Great group of Canadians on the tour, I was the only American. Highly recommend this couch tour.

Taste of Scotland Tour

Taste of Scotland

Scottish Highlands & Islands Tour

Scottish Highlands & Islands

Guide Margerie and Driver Allister excellent. The tour occasionally strenuous; bus rides whole day. Bus quite confortable; Wi-Fi appreciated. Expected more meals included. Big Tour group - 44 Pax - a bit too many for my taste. When I inquired I was told max will be 35.....for me more acceptable. Hotel's fine except Isle of Skye: "Dunollie"- I had a claustrophobic room; no idea where to put my suitcase. After all the add. single room supplement is not little. Itinerary very interesting.

Loch Ness, the Jacobite and Skye Guided Rail Tour Tour

Loch Ness, the Jacobite and Skye Guided Rail Tour

Well organised in spite of covid and rail strike restrictions. Tour guide Kieran was was superb with his general chat and information, a mine of information and traditional stories.

Scotland Culinary Tour

  • Food & Culinary

Scotland Culinary

Scottish Escape Tour

Scottish Escape

Bus was great, Hotels were good, Gary, the tour guide, was awesome!

Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & The North West Highlands - from Glasgow Tour

Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & The North West Highlands - from Glasgow

We took the highlands tour in the month of may last year. It was really wonderful . Our guide was Billy. I found him a bit rude and racist . Twice he shushed my family member when she was talking to me on the bus. And at the end of the trip when my father went to say good bye to him and thank him for the wonderful tour, he did not acknowledged him and straight away ignored him. That left a bitter after taste in the mouth after such a wonder trip.

Spirit of Outlander - 16 Day Tour Tour

Spirit of Outlander - 16 Day Tour

Overall our experience with our tour was good. Our guide was very knowledgeable and fun.

Loch Ness, Inverness & the Highlands - from Glasgow Tour

Loch Ness, Inverness & the Highlands - from Glasgow

Tour guide Michelle was exceptional

Reviews of Scotland Tours from Glasgow

Everything was great-guide,tour,nature...Only you can put more stop to see more attractions which are few min.from mean road. Greetings from Croat8a
We thoroughly enjoyed our Bonnie Scotland tour. The location was beautiful and the trip well organized. Our tour guide, Gavin, was simply the best. Loved the experience!!

Tours starting from Glasgow

  • Glasgow to Edinburgh tours (23)
  • Glasgow to Glasgow tours (13)
  • Family from Glasgow (27)
  • Explorer from Glasgow (21)
  • In-depth Cultural from Glasgow (20)
  • Coach / Bus from Glasgow (19)
  • Scotland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Best 7 Day Scotland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Schottland Rundreisen ab Glasgow
  • Français: Circuits Écosse au départ de Glasgow
  • Español: Circuitos por Escocia desde Glasgow
  • Nederlands: Schotland Rondreizen die starten in Glasgow

Tour Scotland with Scottish Tours

Scotland Tours From Glasgow

Outstanding scotland tours from glasgow.

As Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow is bursting with exciting activities and interesting historical visits. One of Scotland’s top destinations, the city can also be a convenient base to explore more of Scotland.

Head out of the city, and there is so much of Scotland to see. The picturesque Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park is just a short drive away. It’s easy to reach Loch Ness, Glen Coe and the scenic Western Highlands too - all these destinations are covered in our tours from Glasgow. 

Book Tour Now

undefined

Loch Ness and the Highlands

undefined

Loch Lomond, The Trossachs and Stirling Castle

undefined

Oban, Glen Coe, West Highland Lochs and Castles

undefined

Glimpse of Scotland

undefined

Isle of Skye Explorer

undefined

Road to the Isles

undefined

Scottish Dream

undefined

Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides

undefined

Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides

Day tours from glasgow.

Glasgow is surprisingly close to some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery. This makes the city the perfect hub to discover this beautiful region’s historic attractions, breathtaking landscapes and mesmerising folklore.

Loch Ness Tour

Glen Coe

Experience dramatic scenery on the Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands day tour from Glasgow. There’s even the chance to go in search of “Nessie”, the elusive Loch Ness Monster ! 

Explore all things Outlander on a day tour to see the filming locations used in the hit TV series, including the real Castle Leoch, Cranesmuir village and Black Jack Randall’s Headquarters. 

Scenic Glasgow Day Tours

Panoramic view of Loch Lomond

Take a full-day tour to Oban to experience picture-perfect west coast seascapes combined with fairy-tale castles and picturesque towns.

Close to Glasgow lies the glorious Trossachs region, often described as the “Highlands in Miniature.” Visit this picturesque area on the Loch Lomond tour from Glasgow .

Also included is the chance for a gentle cruise to see the “Bonnie, Bonnie Banks” and a visit ancient Stirling Castle . 

Our day trips from Glasgow are the ideal complement to your city break.

Scottish Highland Tours from Glasgow

Experience epic and unspoilt landscapes as you discover the great outdoors, then enjoy cultural pit stops at prehistoric sites and ancient castles. Take a walk on iconic battlefields to learn how Scotland’s history was shaped by bloody conflict.

Whether you choose one of our short breaks in the Highlands or an extended island adventure, we’ve got you covered.

Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness

Short Breaks from Glasgow

For a real taste of Scotland, take the relaxing Glimpse of Scotland tour . This two-day showcase package includes the bleak wilderness of Rannoch Moor and the striking mountains of Glen Coe.

Enjoy a night by the banks of Loch Ness, then search for the elusive Nessie before visiting evocative Culloden Moor.

Scottish Island Vacations

Tobermory Bay, Isle of Mull

If you fancy escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, a bit of island-hopping comes highly recommended. Our Scottish island holidays can take you to the stunning Inner Hebridean islands of Islay, Mull and Iona.

Enjoy a tour to the beautiful Isle of Arran , known as "Scotland in Miniature". Famous for it's mountain peaks and gentle island scenery, it makes the perfect short break. 

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, Isle of Lewis

Explore the northerly Orkney islands, where the rich prehistoric history has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

Outer Hebrides tours from Glasgow will let you explore this chain of magical islands that sit 30 miles from Scotland’s northwest coast. Inhabited by Neolithic settlers and, later, Viking invaders these islands have a unique history and culture just waiting to be discovered.

Highland Tours from Glasgow  

Trotternish Peninsula, Isle of Skye

Skye tour from Glasgow

Saddle up for an incredible 3 days to explore the enchanting Isle of Skye .

Tour through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands and discover island highlights like the Cuillin Mountains, Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr. 

Blair Castle in the heart of Highland Perthshire

Best Scottish Vacations

Explore Scotland’s famous lochs, mountains and castles on a luxury escorted tour from Glasgow.

With luxury hotel accommodation, many meals and all admission fees included, the 8-day Scottish Dream tour offers the ultimate Scottish adventure. 

Caledonian MacBrayne Ferry

Highlands and Islands Coach Tours

Scotland’s islands are waiting to be experienced. Why not include one or more in your Scotland Tour to discover their unique character and culture. 

Explore the stunning Inner Hebridean islands of Mull and Iona or head to Islay, famed for its distinctive whisky. 

Venture further afield to discover the stunning Outer Hebrides or the beautiful Orkney Islands

tour from glasgow

The 8 best day trips from Glasgow for lochs, islands, and highlands

Feb 6, 2022 • 5 min read

Two friends rowing in a boat - Scotland

From nearby beauty spots to scenic coastal escapes, here are the best day trips from Glasgow © Digital Vision / Getty Images

With  Glasgow’s renowned nightlife and music scene, its ever-growing culinary reputation, expansive parks and revered museums, you can have a ball without ever venturing outside the city limits. But thanks to its geographical position, Glasgow is the perfect base from which to enjoy Scotland’s raw nature and dramatic scenery.

To the north, south, east or west, here are eight of the best day-trip destinations from Glasgow.

See renowned L och Lomond and the charming village of Luss

One of the country’s most treasured spots, Loch Lomond and its surrounds offer beauty by the beach, on the water, and way up high. Whether you choose to go for a stroll on the shore at charming Luss village, paddle a kayak to one of the loch’s many islands from lush Balmaha , or conquer your first Munro in 974m (3195ft)   Ben Lomond , this national park offers postcard-perfect sights from almost every angle.

How to get to there from Glasgow  

It's best to take the car; it’s a 35-minute drive from Glasgow. Public transport is available, with a train station at Balloch on the loch’s southern edge.

Mother carrying baby on her shoulders glances at misty Loch Lomond in the Trossachs National Park, Scotland, UK

Get a dose of Scottish history at Stirling Castle

Often overlooked for its more widely-known neighbor in Scotland’s capital, Stirling Castle is just as grand, if not more so, than its Edinburgh counterpart. Perched atop a volcanic rock, the castle is as dramatic as it is historic. Overlooking the famous battlegrounds of Bannockburn and Stirling Bridge, Stirling Castle has played vital roles in the stories of William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and Robert the Bruce.

How to get to there from Glasgow

Stirling is just a 31-minute train ride from Queen Street station, or a 40-minute drive from Glasgow city center.

Enjoy the best of Scotland's raw nature in the Perthshire Highlands

There are few better places to witness Scotland’s spectacular countryside than in Pitlochry and the surrounding Perthshire Highlands . Queen’s View offers the perfect platform from which to make the most of the area’s raw nature, with the Schiehallion mountain a beautiful backdrop to the awesome sight of Loch Tummel below. The similarly stunning Faskally Wood breeds an atmosphere of adventure, while Blair Athol and Edradour distilleries  — the latter of which is the smallest in Scotland — is where visitors warm up with a wee dram of Scotland’s national drink.

Pitlochry and the surrounding countryside is best explored by car, with the town a 1 hour 40 minute drive from Glasgow.

Taste spectacular seafood in Oban

The gateway to the idyllic Hebridean Islands , this quaint harbor town offers picturesque views across the bay to Kerrera and Mull from the excellent vantage point at McCaig’s Tower , the intriguing and unmissable structure modeled on Rome’s Colosseum. For fans of lobster, mussels, and scallops, the call of award-winning seafood would be worth the trip alone. On your drive from Glasgow, consider stops by Castle Stalker (as featured in the 1975 film  Monty Python and the Holy Grail ) and the similarly impressive Kilchurn Castle on the often unheralded Loch Awe.

While there are trains from Glasgow to Oban, taking a car is quicker (2.5 hours) and allows you to visit many of fantastic sights on the way.

A hiker stands on a mountain summit looking out over a valley

Spend a day on the scenic Isle of Arran

Lovingly described as "Scotland in miniature", for years Arran has proved a west coast sanctuary for Glaswegians keen to escape the city. For the adventurous, a climb up Goat Fell (the origin of the name still remains unclear) is a must, while a more relaxing outing may have you wind down at the excellent whisky distillery . A trip to King’s Cave  (of Robert the Bruce fame) and Brodick Castle will give a great insight into the island’s vast history.

Take the train from Glasgow Central station to Ardrossan Harbour (approx 45 minutes), from where ferries to Brodick (55 minutes) run at least five times daily.

Tour the sights of Edinburgh, Glasgow's fierce rival

Although Glaswegians steadfastly refute suggestions Edinburgh is the better city, they won’t begrudge visitors taking a trip to the capital to admire its awe-inspiring sights. The contrasts between these two neighbors are stark in terms of looks, feel and the locals. A day in Edinburgh would be best enjoyed exploring the castle , trekking up to Arthur’s Seat , and ambling down the Royal Mile in the Old Town . You’ll love it: just don’t harp on about it too much when you return to Glasgow.

Trains runs as often as every 15 minutes from Queen Street Station to Edinburgh Waverley and Haymarket, taking between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes.

A solo figure walking away from the camera is dwarfed by the giant stone archway over the path. A castle is framed by the arch

Learn about Scotland's great poet, Robert Burns, on the Ayrshire coast

The birthplace of Auld Lang Syne, the Scots song sung around the world every New Year’s Eve, Ayrshire is the home of its creator and Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Immerse yourself in the words and stories of the bard at the Burns Birthplace Museum and Burns Cottage . Drive a little further down the coast and stop by regal Culzean Castle and take in nearby views of iconic island Ailsa Craig.

The Burns Museum can be reached by car in 45 minutes from Glasgow. Public transport options are available, involving taking the train and a local bus.

Cycle around the island of Great Cumbrae

Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Largs, the population of this small west coast island balloons when summer arrives, as families descend upon Great Cumbrae to experience its old-world holiday feel. A leisurely 10-mile trip on two wheels around the "island of 1000 bicycles" is almost mandatory, as is a stroll along the promenade with a classic Scottish fish supper. Great Cumbrae is also the home of Britain’s smallest cathedral .

Largs, where the ferry departs from the mainland, is easily accessible by train (1 hour) from Glasgow Central station. Ferries run approximately every half-hour, more frequently in summertime. 

You might also like: The 15 best things to do in Glasgow for fun (no kilt required)    27 things you should know before visiting Edinburgh: Why does it smell? Can I use English money? And more    The best things to do in Scotland from festivals to puffins and peaks   

This article was first published November 2019 and updated February 2022

Explore related stories

tour from glasgow

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Wondering where to go in Scotland? Here are 14 of the best places to visit, from cities and grand castles to wild glens and Britain’s best driving route.

Portobello beach just after the tide has gone out

Sep 15, 2021 • 6 min read

tour from glasgow

Feb 26, 2024 • 8 min read

tour from glasgow

Jan 30, 2024 • 19 min read

tour from glasgow

Dec 28, 2023 • 9 min read

tour from glasgow

Dec 5, 2023 • 7 min read

tour from glasgow

Nov 22, 2023 • 7 min read

Where-Locals-Go-England-hero-image.png

Aug 16, 2023 • 6 min read

Hiking the Isle of Skye

Aug 3, 2023 • 4 min read

collscotland.jpg

Jun 3, 2023 • 4 min read

tour from glasgow

First Class Touring

tour from glasgow

River Cruising

tour from glasgow

Vacation Packages

Change your country

Scottish Outland Adventure ( 9070 )

7 Day Tour from Glasgow to Glasgow

tour from glasgow

Scottish Outland Adventure

Starting at $1,499

 Add to My Favorite Tours  In My Favorite Tours   Remove

View My Favorite Tours »

2024 Tour Details

  •  Overview

 Photo Highlights

  •  Itinerary and Meals

 Tour Director

 accommodations,  optional excursions,  private touring.

Have a group already?

Save $150 per couple on select Cosmos 2024 Europe and North America Tours*

*Book and deposit a select 2024 Cosmos Tour to save an additional $75 off per person on the land price. Booking must be made and under deposit between January 4, 2024- April 30, 2024, for select travel dates in 2024. Offer applies to select tours only. Does not apply to Custom Tours. Offer combinable with valid Welcome Back Credits and select partner promotions. Applies to new bookings only. The applicable promotional discount will apply to Groups of 8 or more who provide their Group Block Deposit within the promotion's booking dates and will apply to all individual members of the Group until the due date of the passenger names/non-refundable individual deposits. Offer reliant on space availability. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply. May be withdrawn any time. Available from participating GFOB offices only. Promotional offer is in USD. PRMX0815

Scottish Outland Adventure map

The following UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be seen or visited on this vacation:

 Meals

 meals & itinerary.

Full Scottish breakfast daily; 3 dinners with choice of menus

 Itinerary

Day 1 arrive in glasgow, scotland.

Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or discover Scotland’s great cultural city. This evening, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 GLASGOW–STIRLING–CULROSS–EDINBURGH

Start your day with an orientation drive taking in the fine 12th-century cathedral, imposing university buildings, and elegant Georgian squares. Continue on to Stirling where you will have time to admire the castle, a great symbol of Scottish independence and preferred residence of Scotland’s kings and queens. Pause in Culross featured in the popular TV series “Outlander.” After arrival in Edinburgh, why not join an optional excursion: a traditional Scottish night out with Highland dancers, bagpipers, and of course, the Ceremony of the Haggis? Today’s Distance: 69 mi/ 111 km

Day 3 EDINBURGH

A full day to enjoy the Scottish capital. Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town,” home to famous scientists, inventors, and novelists. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. Afternoon at leisure. Later, join an optional tour with dinner. For departure August 11 tickets are included for tonight’s performance of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a vast spectacle of massed Scottish pipe bands that takes place in an arena on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle.

Day 4 EDINBURGH–ST. ANDREWS–PITLOCHRY–CULLODEN MOOR–STRATHPEFFER

A day of memorable sightseeing. Take the elegant Forth Road Bridge to St. Andrews, whose Royal and Ancient Golf Club has given us the rules of golfing, then cross the Firth of Tay and head into the Highlands, with a stop in the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Cross the battlefield of Culloden Moor with its memories of Bonnie Prince Charlie, then proceed to your Highland destination. Today’s Distance: 225 mi/ 362 km

Day 5 STRATHPEFFER. WEST COAST EXCURSION

More spectacular Scottish scenery: Dornoch Firth, the Kyle of Sutherland, the Mountains of Assynt, and Knockan Crag. Then, follow Strath Oykel for a visit to Ullapool, a remote fishing harbor on Loch Broom, before returning along Loch Glascarnoch. Our recommendation for this afternoon: join the optional Loch Ness Experience, which includes a lake cruise, followed by supper. Today’s Distance: 123 mi/ 198 km

Day 6 STRATHPEFFER–ISLE OF SKYE–GLENFINNAN–FORT WILLIAM–GLASGOW

More heather-clad moors as you drive through the western Highlands to Lochalsh and the Inner Hebridean Isle of Skye. The route back to the mainland is by ferry across the Sound of Sleat to Mallaig. Pause at Glenfinnan to see the monument to fallen Jacobite clansmen and the famous viaduct well known to “Harry Potter” fans before reaching Fort William beneath Ben Nevis. Glen Coe, where the MacDonald Clan was massacred in 1692, and a drive along the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond are scenic highlights on the way back to Glasgow. Today’s Distance: 234 mi/ 377 km

Day 7 GLASGOW

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

With COSMOS, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of a Tour Director. We’d like you to meet one of our Tour Directors, who average over a decade of experience and are representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

MATTHEW BELL

Escorting tours for more than 20 years

“ I always tell people that I want them to go home having learned all about our beautiful and historic countries , but also having enjoyed themselves. You're among friends here , and I will look after you from arrival to departure! ”

Tour Director - MATTHEW BELL

No matter what you’re into: food, wine, history, art, music or anything else, we give you the freedom to personalize your vacation with optional excursions that speak to your interests.

When you book your excursions with us, you can be assured that every optional excursion that we offer coordinates with the free time that you'll have in your destination, so you'll never have conflicts between included and optional activities. Our team of travel experts carefully selects each optional excursion that we offer to ensure that you receive the highest quality at a great value. Our tried-and-true partners have a finger on the pulse of the city in which they operate so they deliver the very best experiences. We offer experiences you cannot create on your own and because you’re booking with us, we coordinate all your transportation and timing needs.

The following optional excursions are examples only for this vacation. These may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased). Optional excursions are available for purchase on our MyCosmos site 90 days prior to the tour start date.

Scottish Evening

Scottish Evening

No trip to Scotland is complete without an authentic Scottish evening filled with traditional food, drinks, singers, dancers, bagpipes, and, of course, the unforgettable Ceremony of the Haggis!

Price Range: $$$

Royal Yacht Britannia and Dinner

Royal Yacht Britannia and Dinner

Discover what life was like on board Her Majesty's floating residence during an exciting visit of the Royal Yacht Britannia, followed by dinner with wine at an excellent local restaurant!

Strathpeffer

Loch Ness Experience and Supper

Loch Ness Experience and Supper

The history, legends, and utter majesty of Scotland's most famous lake are revealed on this discovery featuring Loch Ness Centre, a scenic cruise, and dinner!

Private Touring: Cosmos European Private Touring enables you to experience all of the attractions, sights and highlights of your selected Cosmos tour as a private experience - delivered just for you and your traveling party. With Private Touring, you'll have your own dedicated Tour Director, your own private transportation and driver, and your own professional local guides. All with greater flexibility in pace and your experience. For your selected tour, there will be additional per-person cost for the size of your party - from 1 to 24. This additional supplement is reduced with each traveler you add to your party. Here's a sample of the additional cost:

Contact Cosmos or your preferred travel agent for pricing for your specific party size as well as any other information on Cosmos Private Touring.

Want help finding a vacation?

tour from glasgow

Schedule a "Roam From Home" Appointment »

Access eBrochure s  |  Sign Up for Travel Deals

Bored Panda

“The Cursed Wonka Tour”: The Best Reactions To The Failed “Chocolate Factory” Experience In Glasgow

M ost of us have probably been in a slump lately and in need of some good, uplifting news. So Glasgow said: “Hold my jelly beans.” The immersive Willy Wonka Experience that went viral last week has been an excellent source of entertainment for people across all social media platforms. And while it wasn’t so fun for the actors involved or the people who bought tickets for $40, the level of absurdity kind of does make one chuckle nonetheless.

For those unaware, we’re talking about the Willy Wonka “immersive experience” (the event even has its own Wikipedia page !). It’s the scam that involved an AI-generated script, a partially decorated warehouse, half cups of lemonade and two jelly beans for the kids, the sad Oompa Loompa , and the unforgettable character “The Unknown,” who supposedly even has its own horror movie coming out in 2024.

Image credits: brutamerica

This is how the organizers advertised the event

Image credits: momentsmediauk

Image credits: willyschocolateexperience

But what should have been a magical experience turned out to be a sad, partially decorated warehouse

This tiktok sums up the fiasco pretty well, one of the parents who attended the now-infamous event, stuart sinclair, shared some pictures on facebook.

Image credits: Stuart Sinclair

Here are some more pictures from the ‘magical experience’

Image credits: CultureCrave

Two parents have shared their experiences of attending the event

Image credits: Good Morning Britain

In short, the whole story goes like this: tickets for an immersive “Willy’s Chocolate Experience” went online, and people rushed to buy them. The ads promised “an adventure brimming with magical creations,” but when people arrived, what they saw was a huge disappointment.

You can see from the pictures that the whole event was a low-budget and low-effort scam. One of the parents who bought tickets and attended it, Stuart Sinclair , wrote on Facebook: “What an absolute shambles of an event.” He detailed how his kids got two jelly beans each and half a cup of lemonade. “Never seen anything like it, was [definitely] an ‘experience,'” the man wrote.

Another parent, Alana Lockens, shared with The New York Times how she had some doubts before the event. Apparently, after she bought the tickets, the organizers updated the website with a legal warning that claimed the event was in no way related to the Wonka franchise owned by Warner Bros.

When she arrived at the event, she was somewhat relieved that there was actually ‘an experience’ taking place. However, that relief was short-lived. “I can laugh about it now, but initially, I just thought it looked ridiculous. It was so poorly done, considering how much the tickets had cost us.” Some parents even called the police, but they left shortly after.

The cherry on top: announcing the cancellation of the event with a piece of cardboard

Image credits: jadikosaur

Both the organizers and the owners of the space where the ‘Willy Experience’ took place spoke out

The company that organized the event, House of Illuminati (the jokes write themselves at this point), issued an official apology . They wrote how sorry they were for the disappointment and promised to issue refunds to those who purchased tickets.

Box Hub, the event space in Glasgow where the “magical experience” took place, issued a statement too. “All comedy aside, we understand that many children and families were left disappointed after traveling from across the country for this event.” They also put the now-infamous “Event Cancelled” cardboard sign up for auction on eBay and promised to donate the profits to the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.

Nobody was expecting Hugh Grant or Timothée Chalamet to show up, but the Walmart versions of the characters still left people disappointed

The actors for “the unknown” and an oompa loompa spoke out on tiktok, the actors have spoken out about the disastrous experience as well.

The people playing the characters were victims of poor planning and a low budget and had to make do with what they had. Two of the actresses who played Oompa Loompas, Kirsty Paterson and Jenny Fogarty, went on to Good Morning Britain to tell their side of the story.

Kirsty said that the organizers gave the actors the script the night before. When they inquired about makeup (Oompa Loompas are orange, after all), the organizers told the actors to “improvise.” The women spoke about how all the actors knew on the day of the event that nothing was going right, but they didn’t want to disappoint the children.

One of the three Willy Wonkas broke his silence as well. 19-year-old Michael Archibald has spoken to Sky News and on his personal TikTok account about his experience as an actor for the event. “I thought it was where dreams went to die,” the actor said. He claims the actors didn’t have any motivation as everything was “incredibly last minute,” and the script was clearly not written by a person.

The AI-generated script is available to read online. And oh, excuse me, Willy Wonka’s name here is actually Willy McDuff, and the Oompa Loompas are, in fact, Wonkidoodles. My mistake! Michael also told Sky News that the organizers scrapped the script on the day of the event and told the actors to “make things up.”

Despite the many mishaps, Archibald tried to find the positive. “The kids were absolute wonders. They were just so lovely. They were wanting photos and were getting really excited. And I just wanted to make sure that I did my role as best as I could and make their day just that little bit better.”

Who is this mysterious “The Unknown?”

Perhaps the character that has garnered the most interest from people on social media is The Unknown. The video where Wonka’s actor introduces it with the words “What is that? It’s The Unknown!” has gone viral and sparked countless memes and speculations about who was behind the mask. And no, it’s not the “missing” Kate Middleton . The actor behind the character is 16-year-old Felicia. She made a few TikToks about her experience, answering frequently asked questions from people.

Felicia said that, according to the script, the character is a chocolate maker that “lives in the walls” (!?). Apparently, it’s canon that this character is a lifelong nemesis of Willy’s. There was even supposed to be a fight between them at the end, but the actor behind The Unknown said that this ending got scrapped.

The production didn’t have a “giant hoover” that The Unknown could get sucked into after losing to the protagonist. Felicia said that this kind of ending just wasn’t possible under the circumstances, even if it was in the script. “One of the organizers just told us: ‘Just improv it. Just do what you want.’ And me and the Willy Wonka were like: ‘How can we do whatever we want for that?'” Felicia also said that this was her first-ever paid acting job.

There has been news that there’s a horror movie in the works about The Unknown. I’d recommend taking the announcement with a grain of salt, as the production company that is supposedly distributing it doesn’t seem entirely legitimate. However, even if it’s not real, kudos to those who came up with it for their commitment to take the memery of this whole disaster to a whole new level.

Naturally, the Internet had a field day with this DashCon and Fyre Fest-level disaster

Image credits: putasinghonit

Image credits: jami0mckay

Image credits: ramonochrome

Image credits: harrisonjbrock

Image credits: SianThymes

Image credits: HalfNorthern

Image credits: emzsunny

Image credits: MarkAlanThomson

Image credits: knmccc

Image credits: dylan6roberts

“The Cursed Wonka Tour”: The Best Reactions To The Failed “Chocolate Factory” Experience In Glasgow

'Fiasco': Willy Wonka experience in Scotland creates sour taste for ticket buyers

When willy wonka fans bought tickets to the willy's chocolate experience in scotland, they expected to get to eat their way through a re-creation of the chocolate factory. the reality fell far short..

tour from glasgow

A Willy Wonka-themed event in Scotland marketed as a place "where dreams come to life" turned sour last weekend, with police arriving and attendees wanting refunds.

At least those who ventured to Willy's Chocolate Experience in the Scottish city of Glasgow on Saturday are apparently getting their money back.

A U.K. event company called House of Illuminati promised attendees chocolate fountains, performances by Oompa Loompas and "a celebration of chocolate in all its delightful forms," the company promised on its website about the event based on Roald Dahl's "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory."

Instead, when the venue opened on Saturday, Feb. 24, ticket-buyers found a sparsely decorated warehouse with a pair of women with green wigs – apparently the Oompa Loompas – and an actor portraying Willy Wonka, who looked more like an Oompa Loompa than Wonka.

Spring break: US issues Mexico 'increased caution' warning for travelers

Willy Wonka actor calls Glasgow, Scotland event a 'fiasco'

"I feel for anyone who bought tickets to this event, people who were expecting a magical chocolate experience and got me in a top hat in a dirty warehouse in Glasgow," said Paul Connell, an actor and comic who posted videos about the experience on TikTok and spoke to BBC Radio about the "fiasco," as he called it.

Connell said he and the other actors "were furious."

"We’d been conned, as well, and it did turn quite scary at one point because people were angry," he said.

Still, the actors tried to do as best they could for children in attendance, he told the BBC.

But, "there was lots of shouting and groups of people getting very, very irate," he said.

Children were crying with disappointment, Eva Stewart, 19, of East Kilbride, Scotland told the BBC . Instead of "this big massive Willy Wonka experience with optical illusions and big chocolate fountains and sweets … it was practically an abandoned, empty warehouse, with hardly anything in it," she said.

Father: Wonka experience 'an absolute con'

It took two minutes to see all the sights and then Stuart Sinclair came across "a queue of people surrounding the guy running it complaining," he said in a Facebook post with pictures showing the venue.

Calling the event "an absolute con," he added: "The kids received two jelly babies and a quarter of a can of bars limeade."Sinclair told The New York Times that he drove two hours and paid about $44 per ticket to bring his three children. “There was maybe 20 chairs, a couple of tables and a half-inflated bouncy castle,” he told the Times.

Police responded to the Box Hub Warehouse mid-day Saturday to find angry attendees wanting refunds, the BBC reported . It was not clear who called the police, the Times reported.The event was shut down and the organizers refunded tickets and apologized for the “very stressful and frustrating day,” The Guardian reported .

Company responds to 'fiasco'

The company organizing the event, the House of Illuminati, released a statement.

"Unfortunately, last minute we were let down in many areas of our event and tried our best to continue on and push through and now realize we probably should have cancelled first thing this morning instead," the company statement said.

A Facebook group continues to discuss refunds and how promotional imagery was likely generated by artificial intelligence.

"The event organizers apparently used artificial intelligence to generate promotional images that suggested a very high-quality attraction, which looked just like the immersive and trippy Wonka-esque world that the ad copy promised," The Hollywood Reporter reported . "Ticket buyers needed pure imagination to think it looked anything like a fantastical chocolate factory."

Connell said he thought his Wonka script was "AI-generated gibberish."

House of Illuminati promises refunds for its Willy Wonka-themed event

"I am truly sorry for any upset and disappointment caused at the weekend. Refunds have been issued and will continue to do so," the House of Illuminati company said on its Facebook page . "This was an event gone wrong, the house of illuminati will NOT be holding any event in the foreseeable future."

So much for the most wonderful place in the whole world.

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

What's everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day

  • International edition
  • Australia edition
  • Europe edition

On the left, the marketing for the experience with brightly coloured giant mushrooms, huge candy canes and chocolate fountains. On the right, the actual experience in an industrial warehouse with fake grass, candy canes and giant sweets as props.

Glasgow Willy Wonka experience called a ‘farce’ as tickets refunded

Event billed as immersive ‘celebration of chocolate’ cancelled after children left in tears at sparsely decorated warehouse

It was billed as a “celebration of chocolate in all its delightful forms” but ended up a tragic tale worthy of an Oompa-Loompa song.

Police were called to a venue in Glasgow last weekend after furious families who had spent hundreds of pounds on the Willy’s Chocolate Experience complained about the “awful” event that left children in tears and was abruptly cancelled midway through.

The event organiser, House of Illuminati, which charged up to £35 for tickets, promised an “immersive experince” based on the Warner Bros film Wonka, which stars Timothée Chalamet as the young chocolate entrepreneur and was an instant hit with children and grownups over the festive period.

The event publicity promised giant mushrooms, candy canes and chocolate fountains, along with special audio and visual effects, all narrated by dancing Oompa-Loompas – the tiny, orange men who power Wonka’s chocolate factory in the Roald Dahl book which inspired the prequel film.

But instead, when eager families turned up to the address in Whiteinch, an industrial area of Glasgow, they discovered a sparsely decorated warehouse with a scattering of plastic props, a small bouncy castle and some backdrops pinned against the walls.

After an immediate and angry response from early arrivals who demanded their money back, organisers called a halt to the event only hours after opening, but failed to inform later attenders, some of whom had travelled substantial distances and are now demanding their train costs be refunded too.

A Facebook group has been set up by furious families, who described their children crying with disappointment at the event which was scheduled to run on Saturday and Sunday and lambasted the event as a “farce” and the organisers as “cowboys”.

Police Scotland confirmed that officers had been called to the venue after complaints.

Paul Connell, an actor who had been hired by the company to perform at the event, told STV News of his shock when he arrived at the warehouse and realised that the rubric he had been given was impossible to fulfil because none of the promised props or special effects were there.

“My heart sank looking around … I just felt sad because I was aware of how many kids were going to be coming through.

“We were told to hand the kids a couple of jelly beans and a quarter cup of lemonade at the end.”

Connell said that when he asked the organisers what he should do with the script he was told to improvise.

In a statement, House of Illuminati apologised to customers for the “very stressful and frustrating day”.

“Unfortunately, last minute we were let down in many areas of our event and tried our best to continue on and push through and now realise we probably should have cancelled first thing this morning instead,” it said.

The organisers confirmed that full refunds would be given to customers, which could take up to 10 days.

Most viewed

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

A Few Jelly Beans and a World of Disappointment at Willy Wonka Event

Families traveled to Glasgow for an event that claimed to channel the magic of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” They got a couple of jelly beans.

An event space has a few fake candy canes and mushrooms, but no people.

By Amanda Holpuch

Families in Scotland were expecting to taste chocolate treats and observe “optical marvels” at a Willy Wonka-themed event in Glasgow this past weekend. Instead, they got a couple of jelly beans, a short walk around a nearly empty warehouse and a visit from police officers.

The event, Willy’s Chocolate Experience, scheduled for Feb. 24 and 25, promised on event listing websites to include chocolate fountains, performances by Oompa Loompas and interactive experiences inspired by scenes from Roald Dahl’s book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

One father, Stuart Sinclair, drove two hours from Dundee to take his three children to the event. “There was maybe 20 chairs, a couple of tables and a half-inflated bouncy castle,” he said.

Mr. Sinclair said that he paid 35 pounds, or about $44, per ticket for his two sons, aged 10 and 11, and his daughter, 4, who was dressed in a Willy Wonka costume and had told her preschool teachers how excited she was to go to the event.

“The children got two jelly beans each,” Mr. Sinclair said. “And then they got a half a cup of lemonade.”

Families had booked time slots to enter the venue every 15 minutes and were greeted by rows of unadorned tables and walls of black fabric separating one sparsely decorated space from another.

“As soon as they walked in the door, they were like, ‘wow,’ just shaking their heads and totally in disbelief of how bad it was,” Mr. Sinclair said.

Alana Lockens, of Hamilton, said that after she had bought tickets, she noticed the event website had been updated with a legal warning to say that it was not related to the Wonka franchise, which is owned by Warner Bros. She grew concerned it was a scam and was initially relieved to arrive and see an actual event taking place.

“I can laugh about it now, but initially I just thought it looked ridiculous,” said Ms. Lockens, who went with her ex-husband, a friend and her two children. “It was so poorly done considering how much the tickets had cost us.”

Facing crowds of disappointed families, event organizers abruptly canceled the event Saturday afternoon.

Police Scotland said that officers were called after the event was canceled, but that the police determined they were not needed. It was not clear who called the police.

The event organizer, the House of Illuminati, addressed the complaints on Saturday, saying in a statement that it recognized the event was a disappointment and that it should have canceled it earlier. “We fully apologize for what has happened and will be giving full refunds to each and every person that purchased tickets,” the company said in a statement on its Facebook page, which has since been removed.

The House of Illuminati did not respond to requests for comment.

The event took place at Box Hub, an event space in Glasgow.

Matt Waterfield, the operations manager for Box Hub, said in an email that the House of Illuminati approached him in early January and that the company was entirely responsible for the marketing, promotion and operation of the event. “They dressed the venue on Friday,” he said. “The result was incredibly underwhelming.”

“We are fully on side with the many outraged customers and truly hope that House of Illuminati refunds these families as promised,” he said.

Families who attended the experience and people hired to work at it gathered in a Facebook group to complain about what had happened and to discuss how it would be set right.

Jenny Fogarty, who was hired to play an Oompa Loompa, told The Scotsman that she was given a 15-page script to read the night before the event began and that she received her costume an hour before families arrived.

“The wigs were very cheap,” Ms. Fogarty said. “We were just handed an Amazon box that probably arrived that morning.”

Ms. Fogarty said that she was told she would be paid £16.66 an hour, but that she had not been paid yet.

The event was marketed like immersive experiences that have appeared in cities across the world in the last two decades, such as the Museum of Ice Cream in New York and “ Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience .”

The event’s website built on that suggestion but also hinted that the experience might be of questionable quality.

It promised “a journey filled with delicious treats, enchanting adventures, and moments worth capturing,” and it included elaborate, candy-colored illustrations. Those illustrations were marred by unusual misspellings and phrases, including: “a pasadise of sweet teats” and “exarserdray lollipops.”

Mr. Sinclair said that although his family was disappointed by Willy’s Chocolate Experience, he and his children still made the most of their day in Glasgow, taking his daughter to make her first teddy bear at a Build-a-Bear workshop.

“ The worst part of all,” Mr. Sinclair said, “there was no chocolate.”

Amanda Holpuch is a general assignment reporter. More about Amanda Holpuch

  • Skip to navigation
  • Skip to content

Call Us

  • Tours from Glasgow
  • Tours from Edinburgh
  • Shore Excursions
  • Isle of Iona
  • Isle of Mull
  • Stirling Castle
  • Loch Lomond
  • Jacobite Steam Train
  • Private Tours
  • Testimonials
  • Covid-19 Safety Procedures
  • Sustainability & Green Tourism
  • Info & FAQs
  • Our Driver-Guides
  • Our Mini Coaches
  • Gift Certificates
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions

3 Day Tours from Glasgow

Our 3 day tour from Glasgow takes you to the romantic Isle of Skye, the Highlands and mysterious Loch Ness. Your small group will visit the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and haunting Glencoe,

Day two provides the opportunity to see the best Skye has to offer. From hiking at the Fairy Pools, taking in the sparkling azure waters to strolling through the harbour town of Portree, there’s lots to see and do on this stunning island..

You’ll have the opportunity to visit Eilean Donan Castle and on our visit to Fort Augustus there is the option of taking a Loch Ness monster-hunting boat trip. We continue through ‘Monarch of the Glen’ countryside and the Victorian spa town of Pitlochry, returning to Glasgow via Edinburgh.

Isle of Skye Tour from Glasgow

Isle of Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness

An island of faerie folklore, single track mountain passes, secret glens, craggy rock formations, crystal clear pools and waterfalls. Rich in history with a vast array of wildlife and spectacular scenery, it’s little wonder the Isle of Skye is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland.

Steph S Avatar

Private & Exclusive tours for families & friends

In the current climate of social distancing and bubbles, now more than ever may be the time to consider a private tour of Scotland for your family and friends.

Our Reviews

We're proud of our reputation. But we won't rest on our laurels. If you've enjoyed a tour with us please share your experience

trip advisor travellers choice 2023

Back to top

Outlander Adventure 1 day tour

Culross Outlander Filming Location

Admire three castles and a well-preserved village on this adventure through the sights and stories of Outlander.

Tour Highlights

Doune Castle - In Outlander , it’s the fictional Castle Leoch. And in reality, it’s a stunning castle with a tall gatehouse, an impressive great hall, and lovely views of the River Teith.

Culross - This 16th-century village poses as Cranesmuir in Outlander . It also starred in the movies: Captain America: First Avenger and The 39 Steps .

Falkland - This quaint town in the Kingdom of Fife boasts a beautiful palace and was the location of the 1940’s Inverness scenes.

Midhope Castle* - Jamie’s family home, Lallybroch, is as lovely as it looks in the show.

Blackness Castle - The tough-looking castle looks like it could fend off an entire empire. And in Outlander , it impersonates Fort William.

Your journey

There are moments that make your heart pound, scenes that leave you on the edge of your seat, and kisses that cause you to blush.

But no matter how thrilling Outlander is, we think the real-life sites are even more emotive.

This is because visiting the locations lets you step back in time and wander through unchanged, ancient villages. It gives you the chance to gaze up in awe at the mighty walls of a 600-year-old castle. And it allows you to venture through the real battlefields of the Jacobite uprising.

On this tour, your guide takes you through a fantastic array of Outlander sights while telling you all about the history that inspired the famous show.

So, take this time-travelling adventure and discover that the real locations and history are as exciting as the show itself.

Tour Details

Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old).

  • Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
  • Some attraction tickets can be purchased in advance when you book your tour. You’ll have the option to add at check-out. Other attractions will not be available to book beforehand, instead you can purchase those while on tour. 
  • Transportation by a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
  • Air conditioning as standard
  • The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
  • Attraction entry tickets

We leave Glasgow and begin to follow the trail of the best-known film locations featured in the Outlander TV Series.

The journey takes you past Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument to Doune Castle, or as it’s called in Outlander , Castle Leoch. This formidable building gives you an insight into the living conditions of a Scottish earl in the 14th century. You can also listen to an excellent audio guide about how this castle was used as a filming location for Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Heading north, we stop for lunch at the small town of Falkland to relive the first scenes of the show, where Falkland represents 1940’s Inverness. See if you can recognise the familiar sights such as Mrs Baird’s Guesthouses and the Bruce Fountain.

Midhope Castle* is your next highlight. The cosy interior of the house has been re-created in the film studios. In reality, visitors can’t explore the ruins of the castle, instead, you can sit on the iconic steps of Lallybroch and wait for Jamie or Claire to walk through the beautiful archway in the courtyard. 

We then travel the short distance to Blackness Castle. It’s an impressive castle that’s known as the ‘ship that never sailed’ because it resembles a giant stone boat. You have time to walk along the ramparts and explore the fictional headquarters of Jack Randall.

Then, travel back in time once more as your driver-guide takes you to charming Culross. In  Outlander , Culross posed as the fictional village of Cranesmuir and the home of Geillis Duncan and her ill-fated husband, Arthur. Look carefully while exploring the town's cobbled streets and you may find Claire’s herb garden behind the impressive historic Culross Palace.

After a glimpse into landscapes and stories that inspired Outlander , we return to Glasgow in the early evening.

*Please note that Midhope Castle is closed for approximately 12 weeks from Friday 22nd December 2023 at 3pm.

Attractions

Tour Attractions

You are able to pre-purchase entrance tickets to the following attractions at the time of booking:

  • Blackness Castle
  • Doune Castle 

Other attractions may be booked and paid locally during the tour.

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

We have a cancellation period of 48 hours for our one day tours, 15 days for two to nine day tours, and 21 days for 10+ day tours. If cancelled outside this period, we'll give you a full refund minus a 10% admin charge. If you cancel inside this period, refunds are at our discretion. Click here to view full terms and conditions.

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email [email protected] , or check out our full FAQs .

Customer reviews

Please enable JavaScript to book your tour

Prices from £51.00

Child age information

IMAGES

  1. City Sightseeing Glasgow

    tour from glasgow

  2. Isles of Mull, Iona & Skye 6 Day Island Hopping Tour from Glasgow

    tour from glasgow

  3. The Isle of Skye

    tour from glasgow

  4. 57 Fun Things to Do in Glasgow

    tour from glasgow

  5. Glasgow Walking Tour

    tour from glasgow

  6. 2 Day Glasgow Tours

    tour from glasgow

VIDEO

  1. Top places to visit in Glasgow, Scotland, UK

  2. Glasgow- Scotland

  3. Travelling to Glasgow

  4. Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour

  5. 6 June 2023

  6. Walking in Glasgow During Nightlife Hours

COMMENTS

  1. Scotland Tours from Glasgow

    Reach Tour the iconic Loch Ness by passing through mesmerising Glencoe. Explore castles with both royal connections and pop-culture significance. Hop on a ferry and explore some of Scotland's best islands. Our Glasgow small-group tours range from 1-3 days, giving you plenty to choose from.

  2. Scotland Tours

    Award-Winning Tours of Scotland. When you visit Scotland, you're guaranteed a warm welcome when you come on board award-winning Discover Scotland Tours. A Family owned company, we operate small group tours to the Scottish Highlands and Islands from Glasgow and Edinburgh. Our friendly driver-guides can't wait to share their passion for ...

  3. Day Trips & Day Tours from Glasgow

    Find a day tour from Glasgow. Tour operators who offer one-day trips from Glasgow include Timberbush Tours , Rabbies Tours , Discover Scotland Tours, Haggis Adventures and Highland Experience. For many, it can take the stress out of travel as you don't have to worry about navigation - instead, soak up the views from the window and listen to ...

  4. 10 Best Scotland Tours & Trips from Glasgow

    Spirit of Outlander - 16 Day Tour. From Glasgow to Edinburgh. 4.5 (2 reviews) The Spirit of Outlander tour was great! This tour is geared for Outlander fans but you don't have to be a fan to enjoy all the locations visited. Our tour guide, Paul, was fantastic! His knowledge, enthusiasm, and professionalism was 5-star!

  5. Scotland Tours From Glasgow

    Short Breaks from Glasgow. For a real taste of Scotland, take the relaxing Glimpse of Scotland tour. This two-day showcase package includes the bleak wilderness of Rannoch Moor and the striking mountains of Glen Coe. Enjoy a night by the banks of Loch Ness, then search for the elusive Nessie before visiting evocative Culloden Moor.

  6. Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, and Loch Ness Tour from Glasgow 2024

    Experience rugged and mythical Scotland on this full-day trip from Glasgow. In a small group, explore the Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms National Park and the famous Loch Ness—fabled home of the elusive water monster, Nessie. Visit historic battle sites like Glencoe, Fort Augustus, and Stirling Castle, where legendary hero William Wallace commanded an infamous fight against the British.

  7. Isle of Skye Tour From Glasgow

    Eilean Donan Castle* An iconic and gorgeous 13th-century castle that once warded off Viking invasions. Glencoe Be moved by the sheer beauty and tragic tales of one of Scotland's most famous landscapes. Quiraing Mountain Pass Skye's outstanding geological stunner. These strange formations gave Skye its nickname, the 'Winged Isle'.

  8. Glencoe, Waterfalls Walk & Highlands of Scotland Tour from Glasgow

    BOOK A TOUR. Visit Glencoe and the Highlands of Scotland on a fully guided, group, day tour. Discover stories of the MacDonald Clan of Glencoe & where they lived. Travel through the Highlands landscape, visit Rannoch Moor, enjoy 2 walks in the Highlands of Scotland and visit waterfalls on a 1 day guided group tour departing daily from Glasgow.

  9. Loch Lomond National Park Tour: Explore on a Day Trip From Glasgow

    Live Chat. Visit Loch Lomond & Trossachs National park on our one day group tour departing from Glasgow. Experience the breath taking landscape as you go for hikes along the banks of Loch Lomond and in the Trossachs. See beautiful highland waterfalls, Trossachs mountains, feed Highland Cows and feel the warmth of the Scottish people as you ...

  10. The 8 best day trips from Glasgow

    Tour the sights of Edinburgh, Glasgow's fierce rival. Although Glaswegians steadfastly refute suggestions Edinburgh is the better city, they won't begrudge visitors taking a trip to the capital to admire its awe-inspiring sights. The contrasts between these two neighbors are stark in terms of looks, feel and the locals.

  11. Scottish Outland Adventure

    2024 Tour Details. Take a journey into the fabled land of adventure on this affordable vacation in Scotland. From the elegant Georgian squares and 12th-century cathedral in Glasgow, you'll travel to legendary Edinburgh, stop in Stirling to admire the prized castle of Scottish kings and symbol of the country's independence.

  12. Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow

    Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Tour with Scenic Walk starting Glasgow. 12 hours. Stirling Castle & Loch Day Tour. 8 hours. A Wee Walk and a Whisky: Unique Glasgow Walking Tour (5pm) 2 hours. Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour from Glasgow Including Admissions. 8 hours. Glasgow (Greenock) Shore Excursion: Stirling, Loch Lomond & The Highlands.

  13. Orkney Islands & North Coast 500, 5 Day Tour from Glasgow

    An adventurous 5-Day group tour departing from Glasgow, where you'll enjoy short hikes in the stunning Highlands of Scotland and explore the ancient 5000-year-old site of Skara Brae. Traverse the scenic North Coast 500 route, pay a visit to Dunrobin Castle owned by the Sutherland Clan, witness the charming Puffins, and explore Viking heritage ...

  14. "The Cursed Wonka Tour": The Best Reactions To The Failed ...

    Most of us have probably been in a slump lately and in need of some good, uplifting news. So Glasgow said: "Hold my jelly beans." The post "The Cursed Wonka Tour": The Best Reactions To The ...

  15. Willy Wonka-themed experience in Glasgow, Scotland was a 'fiasco'

    Spring break:US issues Mexico 'increased caution' warning for travelers Willy Wonka actor calls Glasgow, Scotland event a 'fiasco' "I feel for anyone who bought tickets to this event, people who ...

  16. Tours from Glasgow

    Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig & Glencoe Tour 1 Day Tour. A stunning day tour from Glasgow that takes you to locations from movies such as Skyfall, Highlander and Harry Potter. We'll travel to Glencoe and the 'Road to the Isles', from Fort William to Mallaig, one of Scotland's most scenic routes. Capture the Jacobite Steam Train crossing ...

  17. Glasgow Willy Wonka experience called a 'farce' as tickets refunded

    Police were called to a venue in Glasgow last weekend after furious families who had spent hundreds of pounds on the Willy's Chocolate Experience complained about the "awful" event that left ...

  18. Journey 2024 UK tour: How to get tickets for Journey in Glasgow

    Journey UK Tour 2024: American rock band to celebrate 50th anniversary with Glasgow show Fans of Journey will soon be able to join the band's 50th anniversary celebrations during their 2024 UK and ...

  19. Isle of Skye Tour from Glasgow

    On this stunning 3-day Isle of Skye tour from Glasgow we'll visit Loch Lomond, Glencoe and Glenfinnan before travelling over the bridge to the Isle of Skye. An Island of fairy folklore, single track mountain passes, secret glens, craggy rock formations and crystal-clear pools and waterfalls. With its rich history and vast array of wildlife it ...

  20. Isle of Lewis & Harris 5-Day Adventure Tour from Glasgow

    This Tour Stars and Ends in Glasgow. Isles of Lewis & Harris 5 Day Adventure Group Tour departing and arriving in Glasgow. Please Note: This Tour Starts in Glasgow and Ends in Edinburgh. Start Location from Glasgow. Buchanan Bus Station - Taxi Rank 70 Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, G4 0BA. End Location in Edinburgh. Starbucks at Haymarket Railway ...

  21. Sword of Damocles Fest 2024 Glasgow Line-up, Tickets & Dates ...

    Sword of Damocles Fest 2024 line-up, tickets and dates. Find out who is playing live at Sword of Damocles Fest 2024 in Glasgow in Oct 2024. Check out the lineup, dates, and tickets for Sword of Damocles Fest 2024 in Glasgow. Track your favorite artists on Songkick and never miss another concert.

  22. 1 Day Scotland Tours From Glasgow

    Prices from£51.00. Learn More. Discover beautiful Scotland on a 1 day tour from Glasgow. Travelling by a luxury small coach, you can see the sights & hear the tales. Book a space now.

  23. Willy Wonka experience: How did the viral sensation go so wrong?

    A Glasgow-based author called Billy Coull has self-published several novels. Since the furore over the Wonka event, some of the actors employed by Mr Coull have told how they were offered £500 ...

  24. The Scenic South West of Scotland

    Island Hopping Extravaganza - 17 day tour; Tours from Glasgow. View all; 1 day tours from Glasgow. View all; Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands - 1 day tour; Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles - 1 day tour; Culzean Castle, Burns Country & the Ayrshire Coast - 1 day tour; Outlander Adventure - 1 day tour; Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond ...

  25. At Willy Wonka Event in Glasgow, Police Called and Families Outraged

    The event took place at Box Hub, an event space in Glasgow. Matt Waterfield, the operations manager for Box Hub, said in an email that the House of Illuminati approached him in early January and ...

  26. 1 Day Culzean Castle, Burns Country & Ayrshire Tour

    On this tour, you get to contrast these two sides of Scotland. You venture to Culzean Castle, a palatial country manor that hosts mazes, awesome architecture, fine coastal views, and tales of smugglers, presidents, and ghosts. And you explore the landscapes that inspired Robert Burns, a poet whose rags to riches story is full of romance and ...

  27. 1 Day Tours from Glasgow

    Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig & Glencoe. 1 Day Tour from Glasgow. A stunning day tour from Glasgow that takes you to locations from movies such as Skyfall, Highlander and Harry Potter. We'll travel to Glencoe and the 'Road to the Isles', from Fort William to Mallaig, one of Scotland's most scenic routes. Capture the Jacobite Steam Train ...

  28. 3 Day Tours from Glasgow

    3 Day Tours from Glasgow. Our 3 day tour from Glasgow takes you to the romantic Isle of Skye, the Highlands and mysterious Loch Ness. Your small group will visit the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and haunting Glencoe, Day two provides the opportunity to see the best Skye has to offer. From hiking at the Fairy Pools, taking in the sparkling azure ...

  29. Loch Ness & Glencoe Day Tour from Glasgow

    Check-in closes at 07:45 (tour departs at 08:00) - Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station Pick Up, Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station (Stance between 23 to 32), Killermont Street, Glasgow, G2 3NW *Please note that if your tour departs from 1st April 2024, your tour will depart at 0745. Finishes (approx.) ...

  30. 1 Day Outlander Tours from Glasgow

    Tour Highlights. Doune Castle In Outlander, it's the fictional Castle Leoch. And in reality, it's a stunning castle with a tall gatehouse, an impressive great hall, and lovely views of the River Teith. Culross This 16th-century village poses as Cranesmuir in Outlander. It also starred in the movies: Captain America: First Avenger and The 39 ...