Bloody Borders

Castles may appear frequently in Scotland’s dramatic history and scenery, but the existence of such imposing buildings was mainly for comfort, not confrontation. 

Known as one of the ‘Greatest Houses of Scotland’, Thirlestane Castle seems to be out of a fairytale – it is one of the oldest inhabited castles in this life and the next – complete with visits from the ghost of its heirless Duke. 

Playing host to royalty for the hunting season, and sanctuary for Catholic priests in times of dread, Traquair House retains its air of hospitality as a unique piece of living history, despite the Bear Gates being closed until a Stuart King is crowned in London. 

Shrouded with intrigue – surviving the Reformation where others crumbled and with deep-seated links back to the Holy Grail, the stunning Rosslyn Chapel has stood the test of time and lived to tell the tale. 

Barony Castle Hotel, Peebles ***

The hotel is set in 25-acre estate, near Peebles, this striking hotel certainly makes you feel you're in Scotland.  All bedrooms have TV, tea/coffee facilities, hair dryer, there are no ground floor rooms available, but the hotel has a lift. 

PRICE INCLUDES

Door to door pick up service

Elite coach travel

4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast

Entrance to Thirlestane Castle

Entrance to Traquair House

Entrance to Rosslyn Chapel

Barony Castle Hotel, Peebles ***

The hotel is set in 25-acre estate, near Peebles, this striking hotel certainly makes you feel you're in Scotland.  All bedrooms have TV, tea/coffee facilities, hair dryer, there are no ground floor rooms available, but the hotel has a lift.