Extending the average tourist itinerary all the way to the edge, this tour is a rare opportunity to really experience the rich cultures of the 'Borderers' in  Southern Scotland and their proud Northern English neighbours. Sit back and relax as we tour through the dramatic and historic Border Region, noted for its beautiful rolling hills, moorlands and valleys which are a spectacle any time of year. Travelling past the famous Roman Hadrian's Wall, we take a further exploration into the picturesque Lake District, which has inspired many writers and painters over the centuries, including Turner and Wordsworth. A magnificent tour of history, culture and landscapes as only Back-Roads know how.

Tour Inclusions
• 3 nights in unique & traditional accommodation
• Driver/Guide companion
• All mini-coach transportation
• Full cooked breakfast daily
• Three-course evening meal x 2

Entrance fees as listed:

• Culzean Castle
• Brantwood House & Garden
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Rosslyn Chapel

Mon 19-Apr, 2010 - Thurs 22-Apr, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 3-May, 2010 - Thurs 6-May, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 17-May, 2010 - Thurs 20-May, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 31-May, 2010 - Thurs 3-Jun, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 14-Jun, 2010 - Thurs 17-Jun, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 28-Jun, 2010 - Thurs 1-Jul, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 28-Jun, 2010 - Thurs 1-Jul, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 12-Jul, 2010 - Thurs 15-Jul, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 26-Jul, 2010 - Thurs 29-Jul, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 9-Aug, 2010 - Thurs 12-Aug, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 23-Aug, 2010 - Thurs 26-Aug, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 6-Sep, 2010 - Thurs -9 Sep, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 20-Sep, 2010 - Thurs -23-Sep, 2010 (3 nights)Mon 4-Oct, 2010 - Thurs -7-Oct, 2010 (3 nights)

Itinerary:

Day 1 Scottish Borders
We leave Edinburgh past Glasgow and then drive across the Fenwick Moor into the lands o' Rabbie Burns, Scotland's favourite poet and lyricist. We visit the grand Culzean Castle, where we explore its opulent stately rooms and view its impressive armoury display. Passing Turnberry Golf course and the birthplace of King Robert the Bruce we head southeast through the rugged landscape from Galloway to Dumfries. Learn more of Bruce's fateful quest to become King of Scotland as we visit his castle at Lochmaben. We then head for Gretna, the Scottish village renowned as the destination of eloping couples from England. Tonight we stay in traditional Scottish accommodation where we enjoy a delicious home cooked meal.
(D)

Day 2 The Lake District
The lawlessness in this English region was notorious during Roman times, forcing the Roman Governor Hadrian to build a 70 mile long wall from coast to coast to control the population in the area. Our day sees us following this 2nd century marvel, its forts, nearby settlements and local country towns. We relax in the quaint medieval town of Hexham overlooking the beautiful Tyne Valley before continuing our exploration through the great moorland expanses of the North Pennines. This is part of England is known as ‘the backbone of England' and is truly stunning. Amongst today's highlights will be a visit to England's highest market town, Alston, as well as the prehistoric stone circle of ‘Long Meg and her Daughters.' We enter the scenic Lake District region this afternoon and head to the popular and awe-inspiring Windermere for tonight's accommodation.
(B)

Day 3 The Lake District
Be thrilled by a day touring the arresting Lake District. We travel the full extent of Lake Windermere before visiting the lakeside Coniston Water with the 'Old Man of Coniston' rising above us. We visit the former home of Victorian philosopher John Ruskin at Brantwood, the house, gardens and estate reflect the wealth of cultural associations associated with Ruskin's legacy. We continue to the charming village of Grasmere, where it will be possible for you to visit Wordsworth's Dove Cottage or simply enjoy a gentle walk. We take the gorgeous country route to Keswick and will enjoy stunning panoramic views across the lakes and valleys from roadside hill-top vantage points. Arriving in the popular town of Keswick, we have time to explore its shops before returning to our lakeside accommodation.
(B/D)

Day 4 Edinburgh
Our day commences with a stunning drive to the pleasant town of Kendal, famous for its Kendal Mint Cake. More dramatic scenery unfolds as we take a breathtaking drive up Liddlesdale to one of the most important border towns, the Royal Burgh of Jedburgh. Discover its wealth of historical and architectural jewels - including the 900 year old Jedburgh Abbey, one of Britain's most important ancient monuments. We continue north towards Edinburgh. Before enter this city, we visit a ‘must-see,' the attractive Rosslyn Chapel, featured in Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code. As we arrive in Edinburgh we marvel at its spectacular panorama before we complete our tour.
(B)

Price

Pick-up/Drop-off Information:
Tour departs at 08.30am and returns (approx) at 5.30pm from:

Edinburgh Hotel TBA