Description
Lying at the foot of the Grampians, Blairgowrie ('Plain of Gowrie' in Scottish Gaelic) has been occupied continuously since the Neolithic period: numerous flint and bronze artefacts have been found in the immediate area. The town's centrepiece is the Wellmeadow, a grassy triangle on which regular markets and shows are held. Blairgowrie Golf Club, founded in 1889, has two 18 hole courses and a 9 hole course. Highland Games are held annually on Bogles Field and are noted for the mass tug o'war between the entire populations of Blairgowrie and Rattray.
Itinerary
TOUR OPERATES SATURDAY TO FRIDAY
EXCURSIONS INCLUDED
Half Day Excursion to Glamis Castle
We make the short journey via Kirriemuir to nearby Glamis Castle, family seat of the Queen Mother and setting for Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ (entrance included in the tour cost).
Half Day Excursion to Balmoral Castle
We travel west to Balmoral Castle, pausing at Crathie Church (entrance to Balmoral included in the tour cost when the castle is open, which is April-July only).
Full Day Excursion to Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery and Pitlochry
We visit the award-winning Dewar's World of Whisky at Aberfeldy Distillery, where we take a guided tour of the mash and distillation rooms, dramatic stave-tunnel and hand-blown glass installations (distillery visit included in tour cost). Then on to Pitlochry, a bustling highland town set in spectacular scenery along the River Tummel, which boasts a wealth of interesting restaurants, shops and cafés as well as the Explorers Garden and Hydro-electric visitor centre.
Full Day Excursion to Arbroath and Montrose
We spend the morning in the thriving port of Montrose with its elegant architecture and magnificent tidal basin. In the afternoon we visit Arbroath renowned for its delicious smoked haddock know as ‘smokies’ and also for its smoked salmon.
Note: This tour operates via Burtonwood Interchange, therefore clients travelling from towns north of Preston may wish to join direct at Forton Services.
Venue Information
This excellent family owned hotel overlooks the square in the centre of Blairgowrie. The restaurant serves a traditional Scottish breakfast and 3 course dinner (with choice) and there is a large bar area, lounge, patio area and leisure club with indoor pool. All 81 bedrooms are comfortably furnished, most with shower over the bath. All have television with Freeview channels, direct dial telephone, radio and tea/coffee making facilities. Free WiFi throughout the hotel. Lift serves all floors (some graded steps between levels) and some rooms have level access from lift for disabled guests. Tel:01250 872455