Royal Deeside... Castles and Crags

Scenic Royal Deeside has captivated many with its characteristic Scottish blend of moody mountains, tumbling rivers, moors and forests. Based on the outskirts of 'The Granite City' of Aberdeen, this tour features a selection of highlights of eastern Scotland. Tours are based on Thursday departures and overnight stops can be arranged, if required.

Peterhead Prison • Pitmedden Garden • Crathes Castle • Aberdeen • Royal Deeside railway

Day 1 Travel to your hotel in Aberdeen with a stop in Perth, Dundee or St Andrews en-route if time allows.

Day 2 Venture north today. Step back in time at Peterhead Prison Museum, 'Scotland's Toughest Jail'. Located within a six acre site, the museum highlights what prison life was like between 1888 and 2013 when the prison finally closed. On then to Pitmedden Garden. Learn how the garden was transformed during the World Wars into a kitchen garden supplying the area with fresh produce. The Garden now combines its 17th-century origins and recent agricultural past into the Museum of Farming Life.

Day 3 With a backdrop of lush rolling hills, Crathes Castle and Gardens is this morning's destination. Discover the history of the turrets, towers, oak panels and painted ceilings of this magnificent Disney-esque designed 16th century tower house and its lovely gardens. Time at leisure in the Victorian resort village of Ballater. On then to Banchory and a short, but delightful journey on the scenic Royal Deeside Railway running along the River Dee.

Day 4 A morning tour of Aberdeen centre by coach and on foot followed by time to explore at your own pace. There's plenty to discover from fascinating museums and galleries, to the historic merchant quarter, or relax in one of the many parks and award winning gardens.

Day 5 Homeward bound.

All tours are tailored to your requirements and can be adapted for travel by coach and/or air as you prefer. Occasionally itineraries change. Please see our current brochure or contact us for the latest version.

Aberdeen Altens Hotel

Located just 3 miles south of Aberdeen, the hotel is well located for touring the East of Scotland. Offering contemporary accommodation and stylish public areas, the hotel extends a warm welcome to groups.

• 4 star • 216 bedrooms • Lift

• Leisure facilities

• Indoor swimming pool

• Coach parking

Your tour includes:

• 4 nights half board near Aberdeen with:
Tea/coffee and shortbread on arrival
Porter service
Full Scottish breakfast
3 course dinners with choice and tea/coffee

• Guided tour of Peterhead Prison

• Admission to Pitmedden Garden and Museum of Farming Life

• Admission to Crathes Castle and Gardens

• Guided tour of Aberdeen

• Return journey on Royal Deeside Railway

For a quotation, or to enquire about this tour, fill in our online form, send us an email or call us on 01432 277666.