Visit intriguing Rosslyn Chapel, explore the town of Melrose, journey to the Scottish Borders, and see Hadrian’s Wall on this full-day tour from Edinburgh. Rosslyn Chapel has always been mysterious, and has achieved worldwide fame since the publication of The Da Vinci Code. This beautiful and highly ornate 15th-century chapel has long been the subject of speculation about its origins and the meanings of its famous stone carvings. Visit the charming town of Melrose for lunch, then cross the ancient Scotland/England border at Carter Bar. Follow in the footsteps of feuding clans and families, known as Border Reivers, who fought a series of violent raids here until the end of the 16th century. Then visit one of the world's most important Roman monuments: Hadrian’s Wall. Travel to Housesteads Fort (National Trust) in Northumberland National Park, the best preserved Roman fort along Hadrian’s Wall. Enjoy a free nature walk along one of the most dramatic and photographed stretches of the wall. Upon returning to Edinburgh, stop in the Border market town of Jedburgh to stretch your legs and take photos of the famous abbey.

On this 9.5-hour excursion from Edinburgh you’ll visit the picturesque town of Coldsream and the inspiring Bamburgh Castle. But it’s Alnwick Castle that’s the main destination of the day. It’s been a key filming location for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey and is a historic location in its own right. You will leave Edinburgh in the morning and head east to the Scottish Borders. Enjoy the views of gently rolling hills and dramatic coastlines along the way.  The first stop is the beautiful coastal town of Bamburgh. Take a stroll to the stunning beach and view the picturesque 5th-century Bamburgh Castle sitting on a natural throne of volcanic dolerite. In the afternoon you’ll visit Alnwick Castle. Admire the large stately rooms and the stunning architecture or learn a little about all the popular films and TV shows filmed at the site, including Harry Potter. After spending time in Alnwick, you will return over the border and into Scotland.  The final stop is Coldstream's border town, which lies on the north side of the River Tweed. Hear about the turbulent past of this charming town before your journey ends in Edinburgh in the early evening.

*Until 1st April 2023 this tour visits NB Gin Distillery (entrance not included in tour price). From 1st April 2023 you visit Buck and Birch Distillery (entrance and tastings included in tour price). Entrance to Glenkinchie Distillery included from April 2023. Before April 2023 visit is optional and tickets can be purchased on tour. Depart from Edinburgh in the morning and travel to NB Distillery*. This gin producer launched in 2013 with a mission to develop the perfect gin. Taste it yourself and find out whether they have accomplished their goal. From April 2023 this visit changes to Buck & Birch Distillery*, a family owned gin and spirit producer focused on creating the best tasting drinks possible using locally sourced botanical ingredients. The tour continues up the east coast to North Berwick, one of the most beautiful seaside villages of East Lothian. Browse the artisan shops in the village and enjoy lunch in one of the local restaurants. Leave the coastline and arrive at Glenkinchie Distillery*, nestled in a peaceful glen. Founded in 1825, the distillery languished in obscurity for over 150 years before becoming an international brand at the end of the 1980s. Find out how the distillery became such a success and sample their Malt Whiskies. From here, it's a short drive back to Edinburgh, through golden wheat and barley fields.

Visit the rolling, beautiful hills of the Scottish Borders and hear tales from your guide about the infamous Border Reivers who raided villages and settlements in this part of the country for centuries. You’ll see for yourself why Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s greatest cultural figures, loved this landscape. Learn all about Scotland’s Outlaw King, whose heart is said to be interred in Melrose Abbey. Then, cross the English border and head to the magical Alnwick Castle. See where Harry Potter learned to fly and play Quidditch and take part in the famous broomstick training sessions with the resident Wizarding Professor. There is something for everyone in this historic fortress which has links to the Norman Conquests, wars of independence, War of the Roses and Oliver Cromwell. In the late afternoon, depart Alnwick and travel North along the rugged Viking Coast towards the Scottish border.