Sunday 8th Sept

We leave Devon and head to our overnight hotel in the Ribble Valley, arriving in time for dinner.

Monday 9th Sept

After breakfast we continue our journey, crossing the border into Scotland and visit Annandale Distillery for a guided tour. This historic distillery has been through 3 whisky making eras and a period when it was used in farming. It was formerly a Johnnie Walker distillery which closed in 1918. Following an extensive restoration project, Annandale Distillery was reborn in 2014 with production starting on 3rd November. Once again Single Malt scotch whisky is being produced in Dumfries and Galloway after almost a 100-year absence. A soup and sandwich lunch is also included at the distillery restaurant. We then travel to our hotel in Peebles.

Tuesday 10th Sept

Today we enjoy on a scenic cruise & train adventure. All aboard for a cruise of Scotland's sixth UNESCO World Heritage site, taking in spectacular views of the Edinburgh skyline and the islands of Inchcolm, Inchgarvie, Inchkeith and Inchmickery. Soak up the fresh sea breeze and keep an eye out for the marvellous marine life, including seabirds, seals, and the elusive porpoise. Rumbling in romantic nostalgia, the sights, sounds and smells of yesteryear await as you journey 10 miles aboard golden age Bo'ness & Kinneil steam railway, along the scenic Forth Estuary, through woodlands, past waterfalls and over the dramatic Avon Viaduct.

Wednesday 11th Sept

After a hearty Scottish breakfast, you have time to relax and explore this lovely town. Peebles town is just a short walk from the hotels front door and the High Street is the heart of this thriving market town. With lots of independent businesses offering a welcoming service and unique gifts.

Thursday 12th Sept

Today we walk in the footsteps of royalty in a tour of the 'floating palace' (The Royal Yacht Britannia) launched from Clydebank on 16 April 1953. Serving the Royal Family for 44 years & travelling more than a million nautical miles, Britannia is one of the most famous ship in the world. The ship has been boarded by some of the world's most influential people including Sir Winston Churchill, Boris Yeltsin, Rajiv Gandhi & Nelson Mandela. Now a 5 star visitor attraction, your audio tour will walk you through the state apartments, crew quarters, the gleaming engine room, the state dining room and the sun lounge. After this royal visit there's plenty of time afterwards to explore Edinburgh at leisure.

Friday 13th Sept

After a full Scottish breakfast we depart from our hotel, and visit Traquair House, Scotland's oldest inhabited house, for a guided tour by Lady Catherine Maxwell Stuart. Hear first- hand the stories of Mary Queen of Scots' two visits and the diplomatic intrigue sparked in this imposing home. Afterwards we have the chance to sample some of the hearty ales brewed onsite or try to find your way to the centre of the largest labyrinth hedge maze in Scotland. We then travel on to our overnight hotel in the Ribble Valley.

Saturday 14th Sept

After breakfast we return home to Devon.

D=Dinner, FE=Full English Breakfast