The Braveheart Tour – Private Tour with driver.

Discover the Private Braveheart Tour Focused on William Wallace

For those captivated by William Wallace’s story, the Braveheart Tour offers an engaging and personalized experience. Priced at $685.33 per group (up to 8 people), this private journey spans approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving your party the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The tour departs from Glasgow’s Carlton George Hotel and offers pickup and a mobile ticket, making it convenient for visitors staying in the city.

This tour stands out because it is exclusively for your group, ensuring a tailored experience that focuses entirely on Scottish history, Wallace’s legacy, and key landmarks. While admission tickets are not included, the tour includes bottled water and a DVD player for added comfort and entertainment. The guided commentary delivered by knowledgeable guides provides a deep dive into William Wallace’s role in Scottish history.

Though the tour is popular well in advance—booked on average 77 days ahead—it appeals most to those with a moderate physical fitness level, as some stops involve climbing stairs or walking around historical sites. This private experience is ideal for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the legend of Wallace in an intimate, unrushed setting.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience for up to 8 guests at a fixed price
• Focus on William Wallace, Stirling Castle, Bannockburn, and Wallace Monument
• Duration ranges from 6 to 8 hours, offering flexibility
• Tour starts at the Carlton George Hotel in Glasgow with pickup included
• Admission tickets are not included, so plan for extra costs
• Learn Scottish history firsthand from expert guides

Starting Point at Glasgow’s Carlton George Hotel

The tour begins at the Carlton George Hotel located at 44-46 W George St, Glasgow. This central location is near public transportation, making it easy to access. The pickup service adds convenience, especially after a long journey or if you prefer not to navigate Glasgow’s streets on your own.

The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour ends right back at the same location, allowing for easy planning afterward. The operating hours from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM ensure flexibility for morning or afternoon start times.

Exploring Stirling Castle: A Fortified Landmark

Stirling Castle is the first major stop, offering spectacular views from its historic walls. The castle is renowned for its fascinating history and architectural grandeur. Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the grounds and enjoying the photos.

While the admission ticket is not included, the tour guides provide insightful commentary about the castle’s significance in Scottish history. The visit typically lasts around 2 hours, giving enough time to walk through the castle and absorb the atmosphere. Be aware that if you want to climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views, it’s best to allow extra time, especially since the tour advises arriving early if you wish to maximize your visit.

The Wallace Monument and Its Stories

Next, the National Wallace Monument offers a chance to connect physically with William Wallace’s legacy. This landmark is among Scotland’s most recognizable structures, standing tall and proud. Visitors can touch and feel the history as guides recount Wallace’s story and his role in Scotland’s fight for independence.

Climbing the stairs to the top of the tower rewards visitors with breathtaking views across the surrounding landscape. The stop here lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time for exploration, storytelling, and photos. Since admission tickets are not included, plan to purchase tickets separately if you want to ascend the tower.

The Battle of Bannockburn Experience with Medieval Reenactments

The Battle of Bannockburn Experience employs cutting-edge 3D technology and interactive medieval warriors to bring this pivotal Scottish battle to life. Visitors learn about the conflict through immersive displays and reenactments that reveal how Wallace’s forces fought for independence.

This stop lasts approximately 1 hour and offers an engaging, visual way to understand the significance of Bannockburn in Scottish history. The use of advanced technology makes this a standout feature of the tour, especially for those interested in military history and interactive exhibits. Again, admission tickets are not included in the package.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour comes with bottled water to keep everyone refreshed during the day. It also features a DVD player, adding an element of entertainment, perhaps to view historical footage or keep the group engaged during transit.

However, since admission tickets are not included, visitors need to budget extra for entrance fees at each site. The tour’s flexibility allows you to choose how much time to spend at each stop, which is a major strength, but it requires some planning ahead for ticket purchases.

The Driver and Guide: Knowledgeable and Personable

Multiple reviews highlight the driver and guide, Kenny, as amazing and personable. He is praised for his knowledge, friendly manner, and ability to keep the group engaged. Guests appreciate the flexibility he offers, such as allowing extra time at Stirling Castle and providing personalized commentary.

Kenny’s driving skills and witty personality make the day comfortable and memorable. The tour’s private nature ensures that your group receives dedicated attention, making for a more relaxed and tailored experience compared to larger group tours.

Timing and Pacing: Balancing Sightseeing and Flexibility

With a total duration of 6 to 8 hours, the tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and leisure. The itinerary is flexible, allowing for more time at preferred stops if desired.

It’s important to note that some sites, like the William Wallace memorial, close early at 4 PM, so planning to arrive early is crucial to avoid missing key sights. The tour’s pacing is generally well-received, but travelers should be prepared for some walking and stair climbing at certain locations.

Physical Fitness and Accessibility Considerations

Visitors should have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour involves walking around castles and monuments with some stair climbing, especially at the Wallace Monument. While wheelchair access is not explicitly mentioned, the physical demands are typical for historical site visits.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in William Wallace and Scottish independence. Its personalized approach appeals to travelers who prefer a relaxed pace with dedicated attention from guides.

The flexibility and intimate setting make it suitable for small groups or families, providing a more private experience compared to standard bus tours. The focus on Wallace’s story and key landmarks makes it a compelling choice for those wanting to connect deeply with Scotland’s past.

Final Thoughts on the Braveheart Private Tour

The Braveheart Tour from Glasgow offers a personalized, flexible journey through some of Scotland’s most historic sites related to William Wallace. Its private nature, knowledgeable guides, and focus on Wallace’s legacy make it stand out among Scottish excursions.

While admission costs are additional, the value of having a dedicated driver and guide, along with customizable pacing, makes this tour a strong choice for those eager to explore at their own pace and dive into Scotland’s storied past. It is especially suited for history buffs and visitors who appreciate personal attention and tailored itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires a moderate physical fitness level due to walking and stairs at some sites.

Are admission tickets included?
No, admission tickets are not included, so you should purchase them separately for sites like Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 guests per group for the flat fee of $685.33.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and allows some flexibility in pacing, but specific stops are fixed based on the described itinerary.

Does the tour operate year-round?
Yes, the tour runs from August 8, 2024, to June 16, 2026, every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

What is included in the tour?
The package includes pickup, bottled water, and a DVD player for entertainment.

Are there any reviews about the guide?
Yes, reviews praise Kenny for his knowledge, friendly demeanor, and witty commentary.

What are some key sites visited?
Stirling Castle, Wallace Monument, and Bannockburn Battle Experience are the main highlights.

What is the booking process?
Bookings are typically made 77 days in advance and are non-refundable.

Would this tour be good for a family?
Yes, it suits small groups and families interested in Scottish history and Wallace’s legacy.