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 the 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: 09.00 - 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 is paid at the time of booking, which secures your tour date with us. 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. Please note, if the balance is not paid by the 30‑day deadline, the booking will be cancelled and the deposit retained. Cancellations & Refunds - by you: - Cancellations made more than 30 days before the tour date will receive a full refund, excluding the deposit. - Cancellations made 15–30 days before the tour date will receive a 50% refund, excluding the deposit. - Cancellations made less than 15 days before the tour date are non‑refundable, including the deposit. If a guest chooses or is required to end their trip early once a tour has begun, no full or partial refunds will be issued. We will, however, assist with onward travel or local guidance where possible. To cancel or request a date change, please contact info@drummondscottishtours.com. Cancellations - by us: In the unlikely event that we must cancel a tour (e.g. severe weather or unforeseen circumstances), you will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule. Special Requests & Accessibility Please inform us of any special requests at the time of booking. We will make every reasonable effort to accommodate them, though we cannot guarantee all requests can be fulfilled. Drummond Scottish Tours is not a specialised provider for disabled travellers. While we will always try to assist, we cannot guarantee full accessibility across all tours, vehicles, or locations. Travelling with Children Guests travelling with infants or young children must bring their own appropriate ISOFIX child or baby seat, as we do not provide child seats. Accommodation We do not arrange accommodation for multi‑day tours, but we are happy to suggest trusted local options if needed. Optional Extras Additional excursions or optional activities may be offered during your tour. These are entirely optional, may incur extra costs, and are subject to availability, weather, and seasonal access. All costs will be clearly communicated before booking. Please visit www.drummondscottishtours.com/termsandconditions to view our full Terms and Conditions.