Private Perthshire & Drummond Castle Day Tour

Explore Scotland’s Stunning Landmarks on a Private Day Tour from Edinburgh

The Private Perthshire & Drummond Castle Day Tour offers a personalized way to experience some of Scotland’s most iconic sights in a single day. Priced at $997.79 per group (up to 4 people), this 9-hour journey combines cultural history, breathtaking gardens, and impressive engineering marvels. The tour departs from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, with door-to-door pick-up and a luxury Mercedes Vito or British LEVC TXE vehicle, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the day.

This tour stands out for its private, customizable experience led by a professional guide. It has received top marks — a perfect 5 out of 5 from two reviews — largely thanks to the friendly, knowledgeable hosting and well-paced itinerary. Perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day out, this tour suits mainly travelers above age 5 who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and Scottish culture, without the need for extensive walking or strenuous activity.

Key Points

• Private, fully customizable day trip from Edinburgh for up to 4 guests
• Visits to Drummond Gardens, Doune Castle, The Kelpies, and Falkirk Wheel
• Duration of around 9 hours, with flexible start and end points
• Luxury transport with live commentary and guest photography included
• Admission tickets are not included for the stops, so plan for additional entry fees if desired
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Departure from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile at the Adam Smith Statue

The tour begins with a door-to-door pick-up from 192 Royal Mile, Edinburgh. The starting point at the Adam Smith Statue makes it easy to access centrally located accommodations and transport hubs. The private nature of the tour means that only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized experience. The flexible scheduling and the option to customize the itinerary further appeal to travelers who prefer a tailored day out.

Visiting Drummond Gardens: One of Europe’s Finest Formal Gardens

The day’s first stop is Drummond Gardens, near Crieff in Perthshire. Known for being one of Europe’s most exquisite formal gardens, the site features a history dating back to the early 17th century. Established by John Drummond, 2nd Earl of Perth, the gardens were transformed in the 19th century under Lewis Kennedy, blending French and Italian styles. This redesign was further celebrated when Queen Victoria visited in 1842, planting two copper beech trees that remain today.

While admission is not included, the two-hour visit allows plenty of time to admire the intricate landscape, sculptures, and historic features. The cinematic look of the gardens makes them especially appealing for photography and those interested in garden design. Visitors should note that additional entry fees may apply if they wish to explore the interior areas or specific attractions.

Discovering Doune Castle: The Fictional ‘Castle Leoch’

Next, the tour makes a 45-minute stop at Doune Castle. Famously used as Castle Leoch in the TV adaptation of the Outlander series, this medieval fortress captures Scotland’s architectural heritage. Its stone walls and towers offer excellent photo opportunities and a tangible sense of history. The castle’s admission ticket is not included, so visitors who want to explore further can plan for extra expenses.

This stop offers a compact but meaningful glimpse into Scotland’s castle architecture, with enough time to walk around and take in the views of the surrounding landscape. The guide provides context about the castle’s role in Scottish history and its cinematic fame.

The Kelpies & The Helix: Scotland’s Iconic Horse Sculptures

An eye-catching highlight of the tour is The Kelpies, the largest horse sculptures in the world. These towering metal sculptures stand 30 meters tall, representing the mythical horses from Scottish folklore. Located at The Helix park, the sculptures symbolize Scotland’s industrial heritage and the strength of its horses.

The 35-minute stop allows visitors to marvel at these engineering feats and capture photos from multiple angles. Free guest phone photography encourages visitors to document this striking landmark. The Kelpies attract both art lovers and those interested in Scottish legends, making it a memorable photo stop.

The Falkirk Wheel: A Modern Marvel Connecting Canals

Following The Kelpies, the tour visits the Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. This unique piece of engineering is a fascinating sight, demonstrating innovation and Scottish ingenuity. The 45-minute stop includes seeing the wheel in action, with opportunities for photos and learning about its construction and operation.

While admission is not included, the live commentary from the guide helps you understand the significance of this world’s only rotating boat lift. Visitors can watch boats being lifted or lowered, making this a highlight for those curious about modern engineering.

Comfort and Convenience: Transport and Amenities

Throughout the day, travelers travel in luxury private transport, with fully heater and air conditioning to ensure comfort regardless of the weather. The tour includes complimentary water and iconic Scottish sweet treats, adding a touch of local flavor. For families, infants seats are available upon request, and the vehicle is stroller/pram accessible.

The live commentary enhances the experience, with the professional guide sharing insights about each location. The guest phone photography service ensures that visitors can easily capture memories without worry.

Tour Inclusivity and Flexibility

This private tour guarantees that only your group participates, allowing for greater flexibility and the chance to customize the itinerary according to your preferences. The tour is not recommended for children under 5 years old, mainly due to the pace and length.

Although lunch and drinks are not included, the stops are timed to allow for independent meals or snacks, giving visitors a chance to explore local cafes or bring their own food. The tour is designed with most travelers in mind, offering accessible options and the ability to modify the experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations are usually made 66 days in advance, reflecting high demand for this popular private day trip. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, providing peace of mind for those adjusting plans. If the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or alternative date.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This 9-hour private tour is ideal for those who value comfort and personalized service. It caters well to history and architecture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and fans of Scottish folklore. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase Scotland’s natural beauty, historical castles, and innovative engineering.

The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for small groups seeking a relaxed pace without the crowds. It may not be the best fit for very young children or travelers with mobility issues, but overall, it offers a comprehensive and enjoyable way to see some of Scotland’s most recognizable sights in a single day.

Final Thoughts on the Private Perthshire & Drummond Castle Day Tour

This tour delivers a balanced mix of cultural highlights, scenic beauty, and engineering marvels, all within a luxury, private setting. The high ratings reflect excellent guide service, comfortable transport, and a well-structured itinerary. While admission costs are extra for some stops, the overall experience offers good value for those seeking a personalized, hassle-free way to explore Scotland’s landmarks.

Ideal for small groups or couples, this tour provides an enriching day without feeling rushed. Travelers with an interest in Scottish history, folklore, and impressive landscapes will find this tour particularly satisfying. It’s a practical choice for those wanting a curated experience, with the added benefit of flexibility and expert guiding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are meals included in this tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, allowing visitors to choose their own dining options at stops or bring snacks.

What is the group size?
The tour is private for up to 4 guests, ensuring a personalized experience with fewer crowds.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the tour can be tailored to suit your preferences, offering flexibility in the stops and timing.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring appropriate clothing, camera gear, and any personal essentials. Infants seats are available if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for travelers under 5 years old due to the length and nature of the stops.

How do cancellations work?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund, providing peace of mind for planning.