Private Tour
In the Footsteps of Sir Walter Scott One Day Tour
Overview
Available languages
9 hours
Mobile ticket
“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.
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Abbotsford
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.”
Scott's View
Continue through the Borders countryside to discover more of Scott’s favourite places, including Scott's View.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
hand sanitiser and paper towels
Attraction entry fees.
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
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In the Footsteps of Sir Walter Scott - One Day Tour
Pickup included
Reviews
1 review
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great tour, delightful tour guide.
Jane-Frances O,May 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a terrific one day tour with Drummond Scottish Tours. We wanted to see Balmoral Castle’s grounds and gardens. William Drummond picked the six of us up from our hotel in Aberdeen and we had a delightful drive to Balmoral Castle. William’s commentary on the way was interesting, informative and often humorous. Basically he was a delight. We enjoyed our time at Balmoral Castle, just slowly walking around the grounds admiring the gardens. William had recommended lunch at Rothesay Rooms at Ballater. It was in the old railway station and we enjoyed a delicious lunch. After a brief walk around the town centre we drove to Crathes Castle, a completely different castle to Balmoral with again an interesting history and a fantastic formal garden. William’s van comfortably accommodated all six of us. All in all a great day and I would highly recommend William and his tours.
Related Experiences
Operated by Drummond Scottish Tours