Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel, Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery

Edinburgh’s allure extends beyond its historic center, inviting visitors to uncover the lesser-known gems that dot the Scottish Lowlands. This captivating tour promises an immersive experience, from the intricate Gothic splendor of Rosslyn Chapel to the hallowed grounds of Melrose Abbey. But the journey doesn’t end there – a whisky tasting at the esteemed Glenkinchie Distillery provides a fitting finale, where the art of distillation unfolds, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for Scotland’s liquid gold. Embark on this enchanting exploration, and unlock the captivating tales that lie beyond Edinburgh’s city limits.

Key Points

• This 8-hour tour from Edinburgh covers visits to Rosslyn Chapel, Melrose Abbey, and Glenkinchie Distillery, providing an immersive experience in Scottish history and culture.
• Pricing starts at $58.91 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.
• Highlights include learning about the mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel, exploring the Gothic architecture of Melrose Abbey, and tasting award-winning Scotch whiskies at Glenkinchie Distillery.
• Transportation is provided via a modern bus with live commentary, and the tour is suitable for adults, children, seniors, and students.
• Tour has a 4.8/5 rating based on 169 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and seamless organization.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour includes visits to Rosslyn Chapel, Melrose Abbey, and Glenkinchie Distillery, and lasts approximately 8 hours.

Priced from $58.91 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option.

The tour departs from The Ensign Ewart pub in Edinburgh, allowing plenty of time for arrival due to potential taxi shortages in the area.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing from The Ensign Ewart in Edinburgh, the tour first takes visitors to Rosslyn Chapel, famous for its connection to the novel The Da Vinci Code. After exploring the chapel’s intricate carvings, the group moves on to Melrose Abbey, the burial site of Robert the Bruce’s heart. Here, travelers have free time to enjoy lunch and wander the historic ruins. The final stop is the Glenkinchie Distillery, where guests can partake in a whisky tasting. Throughout the journey, the live commentary from the guide provides engaging stories and insights into the local history and culture.

Itinerary Highlights
Visit Rosslyn Chapel	Explore Melrose Abbey	Whisky Tasting at Glenkinchie	Lunch and Free Time in Melrose	Return to The Ensign Ewart

Transportation and Meeting Point

Visitors depart for the tour from outside the Ensign Ewart pub, located at 521-523 Lawnmarket in Edinburgh’s city center.

The tour includes transportation via a modern bus with live commentary throughout the journey. Guests are advised to allow extra time for arrival due to potential taxi shortages, and public transport options are recommended as an alternative.

The tour covers a range of locations, including Rosslyn Chapel, Melrose Abbey, and Glenkinchie Distillery, providing a comprehensive exploration of Scotland’s history and culture.

Participant Information

For this tour, participants can include adults aged 17 to 59, children aged 4 to 16, seniors aged 60 to 99, and students with valid ID.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 or wheelchair users.

During the whisky tasting at Glenkinchie Distillery, participants must be at least 18 years old, and ID may be required.

The tour aims to accommodate a diverse range of visitors, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.

Participants should plan accordingly and communicate any special needs or requirements to the tour operators in advance.

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Customer Reviews and Experience

The tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from past participants, earning an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 169 reviews.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, comfortable transportation, and seamless organization of the day.

Highlights include the captivating stories about Rosslyn Chapel and the serene beauty of Melrose Abbey. Reviewers also recommend trying the local Scotch pie during the free time in Melrose.

Exploring Rosslyn Chapel

With its intricate carvings and enigmatic symbols, Rosslyn Chapel captivates visitors from around the world.

Originally built in the 15th century, it’s renowned for its ornate Gothic architecture and the mysterious symbolism that adorns its interior.

From the famous Apprentice Pillar to the symbolic depictions of plants and animals, the chapel’s rich history and mystique have fueled endless speculation and fascination.

As part of the tour, guests have the opportunity to explore this architectural gem, learning about its intriguing past and the theories that surround its construction.

Whether you’re a fan of the Da Vinci Code or simply appreciate fine craftsmanship, Rosslyn Chapel promises an unforgettable experience.

Discovering Melrose Abbey

Nestled in the Scottish Borders, Melrose Abbey stands as a testament to the region’s rich ecclesiastical history. Founded in the 12th century, the abbey was once the seat of the Cistercian order and the burial place of the heart of Robert the Bruce, the famous Scottish king.

Visitors can explore the abbey’s striking Gothic architecture, intricate stone carvings, and serene cloisters. The site’s tranquil atmosphere and picturesque setting make it a beloved destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Whether wandering through the abbey’s ruins or admiring the surrounding rolling hills, travelers are sure to be captivated by the beauty and significance of this historic Scottish landmark.

Whisky Tasting at Glenkinchie

At the renowned Glenkinchie Distillery, visitors embark on a captivating whisky tasting journey that delves into the rich heritage and time-honored craft of Scotland’s national drink.

The tasting experience showcases the distillery’s signature expressions, allowing guests to savor the nuanced flavors and aromas that have made Glenkinchie a beloved Lowland malt.

Highlights of the tasting include:

• Exploring the distillery’s state-of-the-art facilities and learning about the intricate distillation process
• Sampling a range of Glenkinchie’s award-winning single malt whiskies, each with its own distinctive character
• Discovering the influence of the local terroir and microclimate on the whiskies’ distinctive profiles
• Gaining insights from knowledgeable guides who share the distillery’s rich history and production techniques
• Enjoying the opportunity to purchase limited-edition or exclusive bottlings as souvenirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour information, guests are not explicitly permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provides lunch in Melrose, and whisky tasting at Glenkinchie Distillery is included.

Are There Any Restrictions on Taking Photos During the Tour?

The tour generally allows participants to take photos, but some restrictions may apply at certain sites like Rosslyn Chapel. Visitors should check with the tour guide for any specific photography policies during the tour.

How Often Do the Tours Run Throughout the Day?

The tours run once daily, departing in the morning from the Ensign Ewart pub in Edinburgh. Participants should plan to arrive early as the company notes taxi shortages may impact arrival time.

Can I Extend My Stay at Any of the Tour Locations?

The tour allows travelers to extend their stay at Melrose Abbey and Glenkinchie Distillery. However, there’s no option to extend the visit at Rosslyn Chapel beyond the time allotted on the tour itinerary.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as a Group?

Yes, there is a group discount available. Groups of 4 or more receive 10% off the total tour price when booked together. This discounted rate is applied automatically during checkout.

Recap

This captivating 8-hour tour from Edinburgh offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and fine whisky. Explore the enchanting Rosslyn Chapel, discover the historic Melrose Abbey, and conclude with a whisky tasting at Glenkinchie Distillery. With a mix of architectural marvels, picturesque surroundings, and award-winning single malts, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Scotland’s rich heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: