Royal Deeside, Castles and Crags

Itinerary:

Sunday
Depart Leyland at 08.00hrs for our journey to Aberdeenshire and the Aberdeen Altens Hotel with a suitable lunch stop en-route, arrive at the hotel to a warm Scottish welcome with tea/coffee and shortbread while your case is taken to your room.

Monday - Wednesday

With a backdrop of lush rolling hills, Crathes Castle and Gardens is this morning's destination. Discover the history of the turrets, towers, oak panels and painted ceilings of this magnificent Disney-esque designed 16th century tower house. Spend time in the lovely gardens before making your way for time at leisure in the resort village of Ballater. On then to Banchory and a short, but delightful journey on the Royal Deeside Railway. This heritage railway is in a beautiful setting and runs along the River Dee.
Time at leisure today follows a morning tour of Aberdeen centre by coach and on foot. Spend time in the historic merchant quarter, or relax in one of the many parks and award-winning gardens before returning to the hotel mid-afternoon.
Today we visit Scotland's most notorious prison for a guided tour at Peterhead Prison Museum, step into the gripping and fascinating prison history led by an expert guide you'll delve into the real-life stories of life inside Scotland's toughest jail. For a total contrast we also visit Pitmidden Garden and Museum of Farming Life, wander gardens of wonderful 17th century design giving the garden a unique charm with almost 6-miles of clipped box hedging, over 200 fruit trees, colourful parterres, and sweet scents of seasonal blooms, a real treat for the senses complete with a visit to the adjacent Museum of Farming Life where you can view an extensive collection of domestic and agricultural artefacts.
Thursday
Check out of our hotel following breakfast for the return journey