Scotland’s East Coast, Royal Balmoral and the Granite City

Day 1 Early morning departure for the long journey north to Scotland and to Montrose on the Angus Coast for a four night stay.

Days 2 to 4 We have included the following excursions:

• You will visit stunning Balmoral Estate, the Scottish home of the Royal Family. You will discover the castle’s fascinating history, famous residents and visitors exploring the largest room in the castle - the Ballroom as well as the exhibitions, grounds and gardens. Covering three acres, the beautiful formal gardens feature a large kitchen garden, a range of Victorian glasshouses full of flowing pot plants and a water garden. NB: Admittance to Balmoral is subject to members of the Royal Family not being in residence. Please also be aware that the visit includes the Ballroom only and no other rooms and no guided tour.

• Travel the short distance to the 18th century House of Dun, an elegant Georgian country house designed with baroque extravagance. You will enjoy a guided tour as costumed guides reveal the history of the grand house and the people who have lived there. Admire the breath-taking plasterwork in the saloon, fine family furnishings, masterful embroidery and wool work along with sounds and smells of a Georgian kitchen. Outside you can wander through the beautiful formal gardens and explore the courtyard buildings, home to the Angus Folk Collection. In the afternoon, you will visit Newton Farm, a family-run working farm in rural Angus, where you will meet the farmer and enjoy a guided tour. Discover what daily life is like on a Scottish farm and have the opportunity for petting and feeding the animals. Round off your visit with some home baked treats and tea/coffee.

• A visit to Aberdeen, the ‘Granite City’ to visit the Gordon Highlanders Museum, which celebrates the 200 year old history of this famous regiment through a collection of historical artefacts, memorabilia, weapons, regimental silverware and a replica WW1 trench. You will have time for lunch before returning to Montrose for free time to explore the town with an ancient history and with one of the widest High Streets in Scotland. Take a walk to the Scurdie Ness Lighthouse which has been protecting shipping along the coastline for almost 150 years and still does to this day or the Basin Visitor Centre and Air Station Heritage Centre. Plenty to enjoy before returning to the hotel.

Day 5 After breakfast, depart the hotel and commence the homeward journey.