Traditional Highland Games with caber tossing, Highland dance, piping competitions, and more.
1 Day
Free Audio Guides
A stunning day tour of the Highlands, a land of forests, mountains, rivers and glens. Visit a local whisky distillery and sample a warming dram of single malt whisky. The day concludes with our return to Edinburgh in time for an evening at the world-famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a feast for the senses. The annual events welcome musicians and dancers from around the world to perform on the iconic Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. A powerful and unforgettable experience which honours Scottish tradition.
Whisky Distillery
Our national drink is enjoyed around the world, but there’s nowhere better to try whisky than in Scotland itself. Learn about whisky production, and sample the ‘water of life’ straight from the source at a whisky distillery.
Dunkeld Cathedral
Dunkeld Cathedral is a beautiful, partly ruined structure, which sits in a peaceful location overlooking the River Tay. Look out for the cursed effigy of the ‘Wolf of Badenoch’ inside, and read about the cathedral’s history spanning hundreds of years.
The Hermitage Forest
The Hermitage is a magical woodland, created by the 3rd Duke of Atholl, who helped with the tree planting by firing seeds out of a canon! Wander through the forest to admire a thundering waterfall and some of Scotland’s tallest trees.
Kelpies
The Kelpies are steel sculptures of two horses’ heads; 30 meters high and weighing 300 tonnes. Kelpies are mythological creatures in Scottish folklore, and this modern attraction is the largest equine landmark in the world, designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott.
Inclusions
Passionate Local Guide
Ticket for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Whisky Distillery Tour
Hermitage Forest Walk
Foreign Language Audio Guides Available
What Other Explorers Say
Where does the tour depart from?
Your Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo tour departs from Edinburgh city centre. For departure details and pick-up location, visit our Departure Info page.
How long is the tour?
With plenty of comfort breaks and photo stops along the way, your tour is approximately 9 and a half hours long*. You’ll enjoy a jam-packed day in the Scottish Highlands before getting dropped off in Edinburgh city centre in the evening. Then it’s time to grab a bite for dinner and prepare for the evening performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in the evening.
*Length of tour may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Are the Royal Edinburgh Edinburgh Military Tattoo tickets included in the price?
Yes, tickets to the evening show of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included in the tour.
What is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a world-famous event held annually against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. It brings together hundreds of performers, from massed military bands to international cultural troops and precision drill teams. The show is a fascinating blend of music, dance, and military tradition, complete with an impressive fireworks finale.
When is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2025?
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place every year throughout the month of August.
Are there toilet facilities on the coach?
While our coaches don't offer onboard toilets, rest assured that our itineraries include regular comfort stops, allowing frequent access to restroom facilities.
Are your tours accessible?
Our guides are unable to assist with wheelchairs or provide physical assistance during boarding or disembarking from the coach. Passengers should be capable of boarding and disembarking independently using the access stairs or with the help of a traveling companion. Foldable wheelchairs can be stored in our onboard luggage storage during travel.
Please note that some stops on our tours may involve rough terrain or only be accessible by steps.
It's important to be aware that your accommodation may have limited accessibility for wheelchair users. More info can be found on our Accessibility page.
Can I purchase snacks or souvenirs at the stops along the way?
Yes! Our routes include stops where you can grab a snack or recharge with a drink. Occasionally, we pause at shops offering local souvenirs as well. For precise details about timing and stops, don't hesitate to inquire with your guide.
Where can I get a more detailed itinerary?
Although our tours follow a structured plan with key stops, part of the excitement comes from unexpected surprises! We refrain from providing additional details beyond what's outlined here, as factors like weather, traffic, and the preferences of our driver guides may lead to slight deviations. Trust that your journey through Scotland will be unlike any other!
What if I need to cancel my tour?
If you need to cancel your tour, you will need to inform us in writing by sending an email to info@highlandexplorertours.com. You can find our cancellation and refunds policy in section 3 in our Terms and Conditions.
I have more questions. How can you help?
Feel free to visit our general Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common queries, or reach out to us directly via our Contact Us page.
Video provided by The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
