Royal history at Stirling Castle, lochside walks at Balmaha and the chance of a Highland dram, in a group of no more than 16.
Royal history at Stirling Castle, lochside walks at Balmaha and the chance of a Highland dram, in a group of no more than 16.
You can reach a royal stronghold and the Bonnie Banks without spending the whole day on the road. This Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond day tour from Glasgow combines Scotland’s history, scenery and whisky traditions, beginning among the palace rooms and fortifications of Stirling Castle.
Then it’s west to Balmaha, where you can walk beside Loch Lomond or take the steeper path towards Craigie Fort for views over the water and islands. Finish at Glengoyne, with the option of a distillery visit and tasting, before returning to Glasgow. Your expert guide shares the stories connecting the places, while time outside gives you a proper feel for the landscape. Stirling Castle admission and whisky experiences are paid separately, with distillery options depending on availability.
At a glance
- Duration: 1 day (approx. 7 hours)
- Departs: Glasgow, 9:00am (back approx. 4:10pm)
- Group size: Max 16 (small scheduled group)
- Ages: 12+ (younger? ask about a private tour)
- Walking: Lochside walk (45–60 min, optional uphill)
- Guide: Expert local guide (royal history & whisky stories)
Itinerary
Stirling Castle — Royal Palace · Great Hall · Historic stronghold
Leave Glasgow for Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most important royal strongholds, high above the historic city.
Explore the Royal Palace, Great Hall and exhibitions while discovering the kings, queens and conflicts that shaped the nation. There’s time to buy lunch at the castle café.
Stirling Castle admission is not included and is paid separately.
Balmaha & Loch Lomond — Bonnie Banks · Loch shore · Optional Craigie Fort walk
Travel into Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and stop at Balmaha on the loch’s eastern shore.
Walk along the Bonnie Banks, or take the steeper route towards Craigie Fort for views across Loch Lomond and its islands. Expect about 45–60 minutes of outdoor walking; the Craigie Fort option includes a short uphill section.
Glengoyne Distillery — Working distillery · Scotch whisky · Optional tasting
Continue to Glengoyne and discover how Scotch whisky is made, from its ingredients and maturation to the traditions behind Scotland’s national drink. Depending on what’s available for your departure, you can join a distillery visit and tasting.
Distillery admission and whisky tasting are not included and are bought separately. Back in Glasgow at approximately 4:10pm, depending on traffic and conditions.
The itinerary is a guide and individual stops or timings may change because of weather, road conditions, attraction availability or other circumstances.
Included
- Expert Scotland's Wild driver-guide and storyteller for the day
- Transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned touring vehicle
- Visit to Stirling Castle
- Guided walk at Balmaha on Loch Lomond
- Visit to Glengoyne Distillery
- Small group — maximum 16 travellers
Not included
- Entry to Stirling Castle
- Glengoyne Distillery admission or tasting
- Lunch and snacks
- Additional drinks
Departure
17 Killermont Street, Glasgow, G2 3NX
Please arrive by 8:45am so your guide can check everyone in before the 9:00am departure — scheduled tours can't wait for late guests. Buchanan Galleries car park is about a five-minute walk away; parking charges apply.
Check-in: 8:45am · Departs: 9:00am · Back: approx. 4:10pm
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