Scotland: In the Footsteps of the Picts 531

Scotland: In the Footsteps of the Picts 531

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4 Days From

$1185

Scotland: In the Footsteps of the Picts 531

4 Days Starting in Edinburgh, UK and ending in Scotland, United Kingdom

Visiting: Edinburgh, Aberlemno, Dundee, St Andrews

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BPIC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 25

Physical rating:

Light

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1185

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Scotland with the "In the Footsteps of the Picts" tour, a cultural exploration of the ancient Pictish civilization. Begin your adventure in Edinburgh, delving into the exquisite Pictish jewellery and sculpture at the National Museum of Scotland. Marvel at the magnificent Pictish stones in Aberlemno and witness a live stone carving demonstration by a professional artisan. Discover the rich history of St Vigeans Museum, home to one of Western Europe's most significant collections of early medieval sculpture. Continue your exploration with visits to Perth and Dundee, where Pictish art and history come alive. Conclude your journey with a specially-arranged tour of the East Lomond Hillfort, guided by an expert archaeologist. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, professional tour management, and coach travel throughout this immersive archaeological experience. Please note that international travel and gratuities are not included.

Highlights

  • Pictish jewellery and sculpture at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.

  • Explore the magnificent Pictish stones at Aberlemno, including a famous cross-slab.

  • Experience a Pictish stone carving demonstration by a professional stone-carver.

  • Visit the St Vigeans Museum of Pictish Sculpture, home to a significant collection of early medieval sculptures.

  • Discover the symbol-inscribed cross-slab at Eassie and the Pictish displays at Perth Museum.

  • Meet a digital reconstruction of a Pictish woman at Dundee's McManus Museum.

  • Tour the East Lomond Hillfort with insights from current archaeological investigations.

  • See the decorated stone sarcophagus of a Pictish king in St Andrews.

Places You'll See

Scotland: In The Footsteps Of The Picts 531

Scotland: In The Footsteps Of The Picts 531

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Links Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart from our pick-up points in Glasgow and Edinburgh and transfer to our first visit, the National Museum of Scotland in Chambers Street, Edinburgh (where you may also join the tour). Here we we enjoy a visit to their collection of the Pictish jewellery and sculpture held here, which includes the St Ninian’s Isle Treasure, which was discovered in Shetland in 1958 and is the only Scottish hoard of fine metalwork of this date to survive in its entirety.

Day 2

Location: Aberlemno

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Links Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast we enjoy a visit to nearby Aberlemno, with its four magnificent Pictish stones. Arranged along the roadside are two pre-Christian pillar stones inscribed with mysterious Pictish symbols, along with a magnificent cross-slab carved with a hunting scene and book-wielding angels. In the churchyard is one of the finest of all Pictish cross-slabs with its famous depiction of a battle, thought by some to depict the Pictish defeat of the mighty Anglo-Saxon army at Nechtanesmere in 685 AD. We then visit a professional stone-carver, David McGovern who will give us an exclusive Pictish Stone carving demonstration.
From here we travel the short distance to St Vigeans Museum of Pictish Sculpture, which houses one of the most important collections of early medieval sculpture in Western Europe, comprising 26 stone sculptures of the 8th-10th centuries, including cross slabs, recumbent gravestones, a ‘hogback’ stone and rare architectural fragments. We then go next door to visit the old parish church, on the site of a royal Pictish monastery – a close examination of the church walls will reward us with the discovery of fragments of other stones still held fast within the medieval mortar.

Day 3

Location: Dundee

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Links Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today begins with a visit to the symbol-inscribed cross-slab depicting angels and a striding cloaked figure at Eassie.  From here we continue to Perth Museum with its fine display of Pictish sculpture, and Dundee’s McManus Museum to meet a digital reconstruction of a Pictish woman.

Day 4

Location: St Andrews

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following breakfast we check out of the hotel and drive to St Andrews, where we see the decorated stone sarcophagus of a great Pictish king, featuring biblical royal imagery along with artistic influences showing their European connections.
Our final visit is the East Lomond Hillfort, for a specially-arranged tour led by the leader of the current archaeological investigations. We return to our original departure points.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    The services of a professional tour manager are included to guide you throughout the tour.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.

  • Meals - as per the itinerary

    Meals are included as per the itinerary.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits outlined in the itinerary are included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • International Travel

    International travel to and from the tour starting point is not included.

Mode of Transport

Enjoy comfortable coach travel throughout the tour, providing seamless transfers between the fascinating historical sites and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Accommodation

Stay at The Links Hotel, offering comfortable accommodations throughout your journey in Scotland, ensuring a relaxing and pleasant experience after each day's exploration.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experience is included in the tour related to Pictish stone carving?

    The tour includes an exclusive Pictish stone carving demonstration by professional stone-carver David McGovern.

  • What significant artifact can be seen at the National Museum of Scotland during the tour?

    At the National Museum of Scotland, you can see the St Ninian’s Isle Treasure, which is the only Scottish hoard of fine metalwork from its date to survive in its entirety.

  • What is special about the Pictish stones at Aberlemno?

    The Pictish stones at Aberlemno include two pre-Christian pillar stones with mysterious symbols, a cross-slab with a hunting scene and angels, and a cross-slab in the churchyard depicting a battle, possibly the Pictish defeat of the Anglo-Saxon army at Nechtanesmere in 685 AD.

  • What can visitors expect to see at the St Vigeans Museum of Pictish Sculpture?

    Visitors to the St Vigeans Museum of Pictish Sculpture can see one of the most important collections of early medieval sculpture in Western Europe, including 26 stone sculptures from the 8th-10th centuries.

  • What is the significance of the East Lomond Hillfort visit on the tour?

    The visit to East Lomond Hillfort includes a specially-arranged tour led by the leader of the current archaeological investigations, providing unique insights into the site.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

John G R (Google Reviewer)  

Now, this is a wee...

08-Nov-2024

Now, this is a wee family run holiday that is run from a bedroom. Outrageous prices for a holiday in scotland.👍

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

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Friday - Monday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 04, 2025
$1185
Prices last published on 21-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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