Highlands
Small-group
Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands
Edinburgh to the shores of Loch Ness by way of Glencoe's glacier-carved peaks, with time on the water and a whisky stop in the Trossachs.
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland Coast & The Scottish Borders: 1 Day from Edinburgh
Step into the real Hogwarts castle, walk Kelso’s market square and drive the Northumberland coast on a day across the Scotland–England border with Drive Me Wild Scotland.
Borders & Northumberland
1 day
Small-group
Duration
1 day
Group size
16
Minimum age
4
Availability
All year round
Some people dream of kings and queens, others of wizards and dragons. Alnwick Castle gives you both. It is a genuine ducal home with centuries of history, and it also stood in for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. This day tour takes you south from Edinburgh through the rolling Scottish Borders, across the frontier into Northumberland and along its beautiful coast. We keep vehicles small and the pace relaxed, so there is time to wander towns and enjoy the views rather than rushing between stops. Your driver-guide tells the stories of the border country, a land of abbeys, skirmishes and castles.
Itinerary
Day 1
Take flight from Edinburgh on your way to Hogwarts
Morning: Edinburgh to the Scottish Borders and Kelso
We leave Edinburgh and head south into the Scottish Borders, a region of rolling hills, ancient abbeys and pretty villages. It looks peaceful today, but it has seen many centuries of conflict and border raids.
Mid-morning: Kelso and into Northumberland
In Kelso we stop to explore a handsome town with what is believed to be Scotland’s largest market square. You can also see the ruins of Kelso Abbey, a reminder of the many old conflicts between Scotland and England. We then cross the border into Northumberland, a county known for dramatic coastline, historic towns, green countryside and castles.
Afternoon: Alnwick and the Northumberland Coast
In Alnwick you have free time for lunch and to explore. Wander the cobbled streets, try local specialities, or browse the UK’s largest second-hand bookshop. You can also visit Alnwick Castle, the home of the Duke of Northumberland, where lavish interiors are filled with antiques and art. Its courtyard and library will be familiar to Harry Potter fans. We then continue along the Northumberland coast with photo stops on the way.
Evening: Back through the Borders to Edinburgh
We cross back into Scotland through the Borders and into East Lothian, stopping in Dunbar, the birthplace of naturalist John Muir, for a short break. We then return to Edinburgh at approximately 6:15pm.
Tour Route Map
Click to expand
Tour Highlight
Alnwick Castle
home of the Duke of Northumberland and a film set for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey
The Poison Garden
about 100 toxic plants, visited on a guided tour
Kelso Abbey
the ruins of a 12th-century monastery
Northumberland Coast
beaches, dunes, hidden bays and castles in a protected landscape
River Tweed
winds past abbeys and mills, famous for salmon fishing
The Scottish Borders
a scenic journey through rolling countryside
Good to know
- Pickup point: 8.45am
- Small-group departure, maximum 16 seats
- Comfortable walking shoes and weatherproof layers recommended year-round
- This tour crosses into England, so bring photo ID (and passport if you are a non-UK visitor)
- Free time in Alnwick for lunch, so bring money for food and any castle entry
Includes
Expert local driver-guide (licensed & DBS-checked)
Executive mini-coach (max 16 passengers)
Live commentary and storytelling along the route
Scenic photo stops at viewpoints and hidden gems
One small bag allowance
Optional Extras
Entry to Alnwick Castle & Garden (the Broomstick Training experience may be available on the day)
Poison Garden guided tour
Excludes
Meals, food and drinks
Driver-guide gratuities (optional)
Personal travel insurance
Flights, transfers and accommodation
What Other Explorers Say
Our driver-guide was exceptional! Travelling in a small executive group meant we could pull in at secluded Highland viewpoints the big 50-seater coaches couldn't reach. The local folklore through Glencoe made Scotland truly come alive.
A truly five-star experience from start to finish. The pace was relaxed and unhurried with ample time for photographs, lochside walks, and an authentic village lunch. Drive Me Wild Scotland exceeded every expectation!
First time exploring Scotland, and this tour made the whole trip unforgettable. Having an authentic Scottish driver-guide sharing personal stories and deep clan history made every mile fascinating. Spotless Mercedes mini-coach!
The scenery was breathtaking, and the small group atmosphere felt so welcoming. Our driver knew exactly where to stop for panoramic photos away from the crowds and gave great recommendations for the rest of our holiday.
From the prompt city departure to the scenic evening return, everything was seamlessly managed. Warm Scottish hospitality, executive seating with massive panoramic windows, and brilliant storytelling. Outstanding tour!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do tours depart from?
This tour departs from central Edinburgh. Your exact meeting point and time are confirmed on your booking voucher.
What should I bring with me on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, warm layers, a camera, photo ID, and money for lunch and optional castle entry.
Do we leave Scotland on this tour?
Yes. The tour crosses the border into Northumberland, England, and returns to Scotland the same day.
Is Alnwick Castle entry included?
No, it is an optional extra. You can also spend your free time exploring Alnwick town.
What happens if the Scottish weather is bad?
The tour runs in all weather. Your guide adjusts stops to make the most of conditions, and castles and coastlines look dramatic in any light.
Is accommodation included in the price?
No. This is a day tour and you return to Edinburgh the same evening.
How much luggage can I bring?
One small bag or day-pack per person.
Can children travel on this tour?
children aged 4 and over are welcome when accompanied by an adult.
Can I cancel or change my booking?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before departure and receive a full refund. If you cancel within 24 hours of departure, unfortunately we cannot offer a refund. To cancel, please email us at hello@drivemewildscotland.co.uk as soon as possible. Your cancellation takes effect on the date we receive your written request.
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