In the Footsteps of Sir Walter Scott
Discover the inspirational landscapes and landmarks that inspired a literary legend.
Tour Description
“This is my own, my native land.” - Sir Walter Scott, the Lay of the Last Minstrel, 1805. Discover the landscapes that inspired Sir Walter Scott - poet, novelist, and guardian of Scotland’s romantic soul. This one day tour traces his life from city to countryside, weaving together history, heritage, and the beauty of his beloved countryside that inspired his writings. Sir Walter was born in Edinburgh - and if your tour starts in the Capital we will pass by the street of his birth in 1771. His ancestral home was the to the South of the city where he spent a significant time at a young age. The journey continues into the heart of the Scottish Borders, where Sir Walter would build his beloved and magnificent Abbotsford House, near the beautiful town of Melrose. Surrounded by rolling hills, ancient ruins, and the River Tweed, this was the place he called home - and where he penned the stories that shaped Scotland’s national identity. Typical Itinerary: AM: 08.30 - Pick up at your chosen location. (Timing based on an Edinburgh departure). Embark on a scenic drive to the Scottish Borders and visit some beautiful viewpoints and historic spots, including one of Sir Walter's favourite places on earth. Visit Abbotsford House, Scott’s extraordinary dream home. Explore the house, wander the gardens, browse the visitor centre, and enjoy lunch. Alternatively, we can take a short drive into Melrose for lunch and a chance to experience a classic Borders “toon.” PM: Continue through the Borders countryside to discover more of Scott’s favourite places, including Scott's View, Smailholm Tower, Kelso and the serene and atmospheric Dryburgh Abbey, where he was laid to rest. 18:00 - Drop off at your chosen location. (Timing based on an Edinburgh return.) Why not combine your day tour into a longer adventure? Stay overnight in one of the region's fantastic hotels and pair this experience with another of our Scottish Borders tours. Just get in touch - we'll be happy to craft a bespoke Borders itinerary for you. Please note, accommodation is not included on our multi-day tours, giving you the flexibility to choose lodgings that suit your style and budget. Our experienced team are happy to provide recommendations. Please also note, additional excursions or optional activities may be offered during your tour. Participation in extra excursions is entirely optional and may incur additional costs, which will be clearly communicated at the start of your tour.
Deposit, Payments, Cancellation, Refunds, Special Requests & Optional Excursions
Deposit and Payment Deposit is paid at the time of booking. The remaining balance will be invoiced immediately and is due 30 days before the tour. Tours booked within 30 days require deposit and full payment immediately. Cancellations & Refunds By you: Cancellations made more than 30 days before the tour date will receive a full refund. Cancellations made 15–30 days before the tour date will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made less than 15 days before the tour date are non‑refundable. If a guest chooses or is required to cut their trip short once a tour has begun, no refunds or partial refunds will be issued. We will, however, do our best to assist with onward travel arrangements or provide local guidance to help you continue your journey smoothly. Please contact info@drummondscottishtours.com to make a cancellation or request to change the tour date. By us: In the unlikely event that we must cancel a tour (e.g. due to severe weather or unforeseen circumstances), you will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule. Please inform us of any special requests at the time of booking so we can do our best to accommodate them. While we will make every reasonable effort to meet your needs, we cannot guarantee that all requests can be fulfilled. Please note: Drummond Scottish Tours is not a specialised provider of tours for disabled travellers. While we will always do our best to accommodate individual needs and provide assistance where reasonably possible, we cannot guarantee that all tours, vehicles, or locations will be fully accessible. If you are travelling with an infant or young child, please note that you must bring your own appropriate ISOFIX child or baby seat. We do not provide child seats. Any additional costs incurred in meeting special requests will be communicated clearly before confirmation. Please note: Drummond Scottish Tours does not arrange accommodation for guests for our multi-day tours. However, we are happy to provide suggestions for trusted local options if required. From time to time, additional excursions or optional activities may be offered during your tour. Participation in extra excursions is entirely optional and may incur additional costs, which will be clearly communicated before booking. Extra excursions are subject to availability and may depend on factors such as weather or seasonal access. Please visit www.drummondscottishtours.com/termsandconditions to view our full Terms and Conditions.