Our base is Gretna, famed for its green and the runaway couples, it truly is the best way into Scotland. This tour brings together an eclectic mix of historic sites and experiences, from the Great Tapestry, charting the country’s history, to pretty in pink Drumlanrig Castle. Also included is a visit to the UNESCO Heritage Site of New Lanark and of course an afternoon at Gretna’s famous Blacksmiths.
New Lanark World Heritage site © VisitScotland Kenny Lam
Drumlanrig Castle
© The Great Tapestry of Scotland
The Famous Blacksmiths, Gretna Green
Traquair House © VisitScotland Paul Tomkins
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 The Great Tapestry of Scotland & Traquair House
This morning, we head north to Galashiels to see the Great Tapestry of Scotland, which is housed in a visitor centre with a café. Created and handstitched by 1,000 people from across Scotland, each of the Great Tapestry of Scotland’s 160 panels tells a compelling account of Scotland’s history and culture. In the afternoon we visit Traquair House for a welcome by the family of the house, followed by a guided tour. Scotland’s oldest inhabited house, it has been lived in for over 900 years and they say that during that time, it has been visited by 27 Scottish kings and queens.
Day 3 Drumlanrig Castle & Gretna Blacksmiths
This morning, we visit Drumlanrig Castle for a guided tour. One of Britain’s grandest castles and often referred to as the ‘pink palace’, this majestic building is a treasure trove of delights. It offers glorious views across the Nith Valley and we have time to explore the impressive gardens at leisure. In the afternoon we return to Gretna and visit the Famous Blacksmiths Gretna Green Experience and see a wedding re-enactment and discover the history of the runaway romance in the museum.
Day 4 New Lanark World Heritage Site
We spend today at the New Lanark World Heritage Site. One of Scotland’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we discover the fascinating 200-year social history of this beautifully restored cotton mill village. Listen to the story of a mill girl from 1820 during the Annie McLeod Experience, see working textile machinery, enjoy the views from the imaginatively designed roof garden and explore the Millworkers’ House, The Village Store and Robert Owen’s House and School. The Mill Shop offers a selection of delightful gifts and Scottish produce including wool which is spun on site.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
Gretna Hall Hotel
Gretna Green
Built in 1710 and steeped in history, the Gretna Hall Hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the Gretna Retail Outlet and Gretna town centre, and only 500 yards from the famous Blacksmiths visitor attraction. The hotel offers a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary. All 97 bedrooms are equipped with a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The modern restaurant is bright and stylish, and there is a comfortable bar with cosy seating and an outside seating area.
BarGround Floor RoomsLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing
Gretna Hall Hotel
Gretna
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £438pp
Single Supplement from £151
Based on Sunday arrivals
Inclusions
• Entrance to the Great Tapestry of Scotland
• Guided tour of Traquair House
• Guided tour of Drumlanrig Castle and entrance to gardens
• Entrance to Gretna Blacksmiths Exhibition & Wedding re-enactment
• Entrance to New Lanark World Heritage Site
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
