Scottish Tour Guide
We're proud to recommend:
Margot McMurdo Blue Badge Scottish Tour Guide. Email: margot@ctem.co.uk
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Splendour of Scott Country
A full Day Tour with an optional overnight stop in a 16th century Scott residence.
Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832)
This great writer, through his books and poems, re-invented the lost Scotland of the Stuarts, clans, and wild romance. Some of his best known works are Ivanhoe, Rob Roy and Red Gauntlet.
This day Tour takes you through the countryside that inspired Scott throughout his life.
Firstly to Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom where he was Sheriff of the county from 1799 until 1832; "the man himself" reminisces about his life and work. Travelling on to Abbotsford, the Border home of Sir Walter Scott and still lived in today by his descendants. He was a great collector and the house contains many beautiful paintings, armour, weaponry and historical artifacts. The house is in a beautiful location on the banks of the River Tweed.
Left; The Jensens at Abbotsford.
Tea/coffee and comfort stop!
We journey to the nearby town of Melrose, a delightful place, ideal for a stroll or to shop. The little town has much to offer - the ruined Abbey dates from 1136; Priorwood Garden specialises in dried flowers; the Trimontium Exhibition gives an insight into the Roman occupation of the Borders.
Lunch and comfort stop!
Onwards to Smailholm Tower which Scott described in "Marmion":
"then rise those crags that maintain'd tower which charmed my fancy's waking hour". He spent some of his childhood at the adjacent Sandyknowe farm and in later years admitted his imagination had been fired by the Ballards and stories he heard as a child at Sandyknowe and by the sight of Smailholm Tower. Within the restored tower there is a permanent exhibition of costume figures and tapestries of extraordinary charm which illustrate Scott's "minstrelsy of the Scottish Border."
We then travel to Scotts' View, a spectacular view over the countryside to the Eildon Hills which was a favourite spot of Sir Walter. Finally, to Dryburgh Abbey where Scott was laid to rest on a dark cold day in September 1832. It was said that "when the the coffin was taken from the hearse and again laid on the shoulders of the afflicted serving men, one deep sob burst from a thousand lips"
Tea/coffee and comfort stop!
Return to Edinburgh or:
- stay overnight in Lessudden House which was the home of the Scotts of Raeburn in the 17th century, and still very much a delightful family home today.
The original house was rebuilt in the late 16th century after being destroyed by the invading armies of Henry VIII. The house was acquired by the Scotts of Raeburn in the 17th century and it was visitied by the young Sir Walter Scott.
The present owners Angela and Alasdair Douglas-Hamilton are very welcoming hosts and Angela is a superb cook, producing delicious meals enjoyed in the atmospheric dining room surrounded by portraits of the present family and the Scotts. The bedrooms have all modern conveniences but are steeped in history and make for a very enjoyable stay, one night or longer.
Experiencing living Scottish History at Lessudden House is a wonderful addition to your vacation and the Splendour of Scott Country.
Options: (based on an Edinburgh pick-up point)
1. Guiding only
You supply the vehicle (coach, minibus or car) and driver.
2. Driver/Guide
I drive you in a luxury, air-conditioned 4x4 which is fully insured (maximum 3-4 people).
3. People Carrier/coach/mini-bus/Driver and Guide (for groups over 3 in number)
I will arrange a suitable vehicle for your group. My business colleague, with many years driving/touring experience, will be your driver and I will be your guide.
Prices for the above options on application.
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To enquire or book:
Email margot@ctem.co.uk or call/fax +44 (0)1899 880207
Please see: Terms and conditions
- In order to avoid disappointment, please try to book at least 4 weeks in advance. If that's impossible contact me anyway, and I'll do my best!
Prices do not include entry fees to places of interest:
- Admission to Abbotsford. Prices range from £3.5-£7.00
- Admission to Melrose Abbey. Prices range from £2.60-£3.20
- Admissionto Dryburgh Abbey. Prices range from £2.35-£4.70
- Admission to Smailholm Tower. Prices range from £1.85 to £3.70
Concessions may sometimes be available for senior citizens; families; groups and children.
Events in the Scottish Borders in 2010
You may like to incorporate these events into your visit.
- 10th April Melrose Rugby Sevens
- 18th June Selkirk Common Riding
- 21st August Melrose Pipe Band Championships
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