Stirling Castle, Kelpies and Loch Lomond Tour
FromÂŁ52
8 hours
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
About this activity
Discover Scotland's rich history and stunning landscapes on this full-day tour from Edinburgh, featuring Stirling Castle, the Kelpies sculptures, and Loch Lomond.
Highlights
- Explore historic Stirling Castle
- Marvel at the Kelpies sculptures
- Enjoy scenic Loch Lomond views
- Learn about Scottish history
- Experience Scotland's natural beauty
Full description
Embark on a captivating journey through Scotland's heritage and natural beauty. Your adventure begins with a guided tour of Stirling Castle, a pivotal site in Scottish history. Next, witness the impressive Kelpies sculptures, monumental horse-head structures that pay homage to Scotland's industrial heritage. Conclude your day with a scenic drive around Loch Lomond, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil waters. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, art, and nature, providing an unforgettable Scottish experience.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Stirling Castle
- Visit to the Kelpies sculptures
- Scenic drive around Loch Lomond
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
1
See the spectacular Kelpies – 30 foot high metal equine sculptures, built at the entrance to Forth and Clyde Canals as a tribute to Central Scotland’s industrial past. You’ll see why the Kelpies are fast becoming one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and the perfect spot for photographs.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Heading West we make our way towards the town of Balloch, situated at the southern of Loch Lomond’s Bonnie Banks where you will have a chance to explore and also take an optional hour-long boat cruise on the loch. Whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery from the boat you can also hear the expert onboard commentary from Neil Oliver, who is amongst other things a renowned Scottish historian and archaeologist.
Duration: 1h 30mAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Pass by: After leaving the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond we then head towards the quaint village of Aberfoyle before exploring a picturesque Highland road named the Dukes Pass, the old stomping ground of the legendary folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4
Pass by: Known as “The Gateway to the Highlands” Callander is situated on the boundary of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National park, an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
We make our way to the historic Stirling Castle where you will have the option of either taking leisurely stroll around the city centre or going inside and hearing how important this stronghold was over the centuries. From the Wars of Independence, think William Wallace and Robert the Bruce to Mary Queen of Scots who was crowned at the castle in 1543 aged just 9 months old this fortress has played a major part in our history. If you don't fancy the castle you will have free time to explore the ancient city of Stirling.
Duration: 1h 30mAdmission: NO
6
After visiting Stirling we make our way back to Edinburgh, stopping at South Queensferry for an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the 3 bridges that span the River Forth including the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, a World Heritage Site granted by UNESCO in 2015.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
We will drop you off in the city centre, our estimated arrival time is 6:30 PM. Please note that this can be impacted by traffic and other factors outwith our control. We recommend leaving 2 hours between the expected arrival time and any onward travel or reservations, as we are not able to offer individual drop-offs.
Duration: 5 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Meeting point
Start Location
1759 Regent Rd, 1759 Regent Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8DR, UK
Important information
Know before you book
- Confirm your booking at least 24 hours in advance.
- Be aware that the tour operates rain or shine.
- Ensure you have a valid ID for age verification if required.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the castle tour.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
- Minimum age to travel is 7 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (8-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
- This tour in an air-conditioned coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
- There are regular stops on tour to purchase food and refreshments that cater for most dietary requirements
- There are regular stops on tour for comfort breaks
- No animals allowed on tour
- For insurance purposes, passengers must not be unaccompanied on our buses during tour stops. Drivers take legally required breaks and cannot stay with the vehicle.
Traveler reviews
4.8299 reviews
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You've looked at the rest now choose the best!
I really cant say enough about this company. Our driver, Tony G, was AWESOME! We did the tour to Stirling and Loch Lomond and it was a great experience. There are a lot of tour company's in Edinburgh but the Hairy Coo lives up to its reputation as one of the best. Also, if you can get a tour with Tony G, you will not be disappointed! Im just going to throw this out there...you need to do a tour called "Coos and Castles" and hit multiple castles in one run. If you use it you have to fly me back for the inaugural run though. :)
joshfT4120TMMay 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Entertaining and creative guide.
Our guide, Coleman (I believe that was his name — sometimes the Scottish accent was a little difficult for us to catch), was very friendly and personable. The tour absolutely met our expectations. He shared interesting stories throughout the trip, played music that matched the atmosphere and history he was describing, and overall did a fantastic job making the experience enjoyable and memorable.
Jay_SMay 20, 2026VIATOR
Ross was brilliant!
A wonderful experience! Our driver, Ross, was brilliant, so funny and very knowledgeable, and he was perfect behind the wheel, even when it got a bit bumpy! Great taste in music, too.
Chace_MMay 17, 2026VIATOR
Good trip. Our...
Good trip. Our driver/guide was Ian. He was very informative and great fun. Very polite and helpful.
Dawn_pMay 15, 2026VIATOR
Great tour
Loved the hairy coo tour. Ian was a great tour guide đź‘Ť filled with lots of history, stories and humor
Annette_DMay 15, 2026VIATOR
Additional information
There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
Minimum age to travel is 7 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (8-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
This tour in an air-conditioned coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
There are regular stops on tour to purchase food and refreshments that cater for most dietary requirements
There are regular stops on tour for comfort breaks
No animals allowed on tour
For insurance purposes, passengers must not be unaccompanied on our buses during tour stops. Drivers take legally required breaks and cannot stay with the vehicle.