Quick Details
We take you behind the headlines of Dan Brown’s ‘Da Vinci Code’, explaining the background to one of the world’s most enduring mysteries. Visit some of Scotland’s most beautiful buildings and piece together the country’s turbulent history.
Head north to Fife…
This tour brings Scotland’s medieval history to life, but we start with a more modern marvel, the Forth Railway Bridge. This bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was also voted Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder in 2016. Here you’ll have the opportunity to take photos of this beautiful bridge and learn more about this incredible feat of engineering, which took almost 4000 men 3.5 years to complete.
Discover the history of the Kingdom…
As we cross into Fife, delve into the history of this remarkable place. Be inspired by stories about the heroes of Scotland’s past who battled in this ancient kingdom, and marvel in the picturesque countryside that surrounds you.
Visit Dunfermline Abbey…
Your first stop is the town of Dunfermline, the former capital of Scotland and birthplace to many famous figures and monarchs including Charles I, James I and Andrew Carnegie. Explore the beautiful Dunfermline Abbey and Palace*, and visit the Abbey Church. Dunfermline Abbey is home to a wealth of history; for example, it was the birthplace of the last monarch to be born in Scotland – Charles I. Take in the breathtaking views of the glen and admire the beautiful Romanesque architecture. Be sure to not miss the monks’ refectory, a symbol of Robert the Bruce’s confidence in his kingdom. The nave is the final resting place of Robert the Bruce, who battled for Scotland’s right to be a nation.
Explore Stirling Castle and the city…
Next, we travel into Stirlingshire and we stop just outside the beautiful Stirling Castle. This castle is one of the largest and most historically important castles in Scotland. From here you can catch a view of the monument of Scottish hero William Wallace. Enjoy tales from your experienced guides who will bring this famous Scot’s story to life. This monument is situated among the beautiful Ochil Hills, which serve as the perfect backdrop for this incredible tale. If you prefer something a little different, why not visit the new gin distillery or take a stroll through the beautiful and ancient streets that make up the medieval old town? As you discover this ancient town, learn why it is known proverbially as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’.
Visit the site of Scotland’s greatest victory…
From Stirling, we head to Bannockburn, the battlefield where Robert the Bruce routed the English in 1314, resulting in the de-facto independence for Scotland. Discover the history of the site and the circumstances that led up to this resounding Scottish victory, and the impact it has had on the Scotland of today. Time permitting, we will stop to view the statue of Robert the Bruce on his horse.
Discover the village of Roslin and the historic Rosslyn Chapel…
On our way to Rosslyn Chapel, we’ll pass the Roslin Institute where Dolly the sheep was cloned, an immense scientific feat. While we will not be stopping here, be sure to visit the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh to find out more. Our next stop is the 15th century Rosslyn Chapel, owned by the same family since its construction. Despite its origin being contested, it’s a beautiful example of Scottish architecture. Don’t miss the stunning stained-glass windows, its beautiful carvings and the explore the crypt below the chapel, shrouded in mystery. This chapel is in this state today partly due to Queen Victoria, who visited the chapel in a state of disarray and ordered its restoration in the 19th century.
Decode the mystery of the Holy Grail…
Discover the historical mystery of Rosslyn Chapel*, made famous in Dan Brown’s novel ‘The Da Vinci Code’. Is this the resting place of the Holy Grail? Join us for a tour of the chapel and see what you believe. There is also a beautiful walk you can take through Roslin Glen and the nearby ruins of Rosslyn Castle.
