Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour

Outty Ranking 82 4.7 · 1,477 traveler reviews9.5 hoursFrom $66
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Outty Ranking

82/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.7/5

Based on 1,477 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour worth booking?

Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour is a 9.5-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $66 per person. It scores 82 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 1,477 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
82 / 100
Rating
4.7/5 (1,477)
Duration
9.5 hours
From
$66 per person

This one-day tour from Edinburgh takes you sightseeing at the impressive Kelpies, to beautiful Loch Lomond, the magnificent Trossachs National Park and the land of Scottish legends William Wallace and Rob Roy. Before a fascinating stop at Stirling Castle to experience the history and stories of Scottish royalty. Please note: from 3rd December 2024 our Edinburgh tours will depart from NCP Castle Terrace, EH1 2EW.

What you get

    About this experience

    This one-day tour from Edinburgh takes you sightseeing at the impressive Kelpies, to beautiful Loch Lomond, the magnificent Trossachs National Park and the land of Scottish legends William Wallace and Rob Roy. Before a fascinating stop at Stirling Castle to experience the history and stories of Scottish royalty. Please note: from 3rd December 2024 our Edinburgh tours will depart from NCP Castle Terrace, EH1 2EW.

    What's included

    Included

    • Driver/guide
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Live commentary on board

    Not included

    • Food and drinks
    • Gratuities
    • Attraction Tickets
    • On-board restrooms
    • On-board WiFi

    What you'll see and do

    1. The Kelpies & The Helix

      Departing Edinburgh, we head towards our first stop of the day; the Kelpies. At 30m high, they are the largest equine sculptures in the world and depict mythical creatures from Scottish folklore.

      15 minutes here

    2. Balloch

      We stop at Balloch at Loch Lomond to give our customers the option of taking a cruise across Loch Lomond. Admission for the cruise is not included.

      60 minutes here

    3. Loch Lomond Shores

      For those who are not interested in taking the cruise, we stop at Loch Lomond Shores, for customers to take a leisurely walk.

      60 minutes here

    4. Aberfoyle VisitScotland iCentre

      We continue through the Trossachs National Park, also known as 'the Highlands in Miniature' for it's abundance of lochs, mountains and forests. It's also famous for the legendary outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor. We will spend time exploring the area before stopping for lunch in a small village immersed in its beautiful surroundings.

      60 minutes here

    5. Stirling Castle

      After lunch, we make our way through the town of Callander, past the medieval Doune Castle before we make our final stop of the day at Stirling Castle (optional extra). The site is one of Scotland's most historically significant fortresses, sitting high on volcanic rock and offering wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. You will have time to visit the castle and learn of the exploits of key historical figures including William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots. With lots of interesting things to see and do here, the Stirling Castle experience is a must for any visitor to Scotland. We then begin our journey homebound to Edinburgh.

      90 minutes here · Admission not included

    6. South Queensferry

      We stop at South Queensferry for views of the Forth Bridges

      10 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Edinburgh

    Our Edinburgh tours depart from Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EW, outside the NCP Car Park. What3Words Address: ///casino.cove.works

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Our Edinburgh tours depart from Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EW, outside the NCP Car Park. What3Words Address: ///casino.cove.works

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Timberbush Tours

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Minimum age is 4 years old.
    • Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund.
    • Digital translations in English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian & Mandarin available on request.
    • Please arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.
    • Entrance tickets for Stirling Castle are not included in the price of your tour but can be purchased on the day from your driver-guide.
    • Please note: from 3rd December 2024 our Edinburgh tours will depart from NCP Castle Terrace, EH1 2EW.

    Photos

    Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour, photo 2Stirling Castle, Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day TourStirling Castle and a Highland Cow, Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day TourLoch Lomond Cruise, Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day TourLuss, Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day TourStirling Castle, Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,473 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    10 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    1,473 verified traveler reviews for Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    1,191
    4 star
    177
    3 star
    45
    2 star
    28
    1 star
    32
    Sort
    MackenzieC748 · October 2026

    Stranded on Highway, Mechanical Bus Failure, & Racist Comments from Driver

    My mother and I took Timberbush's Loch Lomond day tour on October 7, 2026, and it was one of the worst tour experiences we've had. Our bus broke down twice when the horn got stuck on. The second time, we were stranded on the side of the highway for about half an hour, and the bus swayed every time a large truck went past. While we were stuck there, the door stopped working, so passengers couldn't get out in an emergency. I had to help the driver from the inside to get it open again (see photo). The driver asked for a replacement bus, but none was sent. A mechanic disconnected the horn and we carried on in the same vehicle - but no horn (which was needed later on the drive). The microphone and air conditioning didn't work for the whole day, and at least three passengers got sick. The driver told us this was his third breakdown in three days, each on a different bus, and that management wasn't listening to drivers about problems with the new buses. The driver's behavior was also unacceptable. We overheard him say on the phone that he had the flu, and he asked me to call the cruise company for him while he drove. He told the bus, "thank goodness we weren't a whole bus of Chinese people because all of them always get sick," said that if he ran the country he would "start with executions," and told the women to "prepare for an orgasmic experience" as we arrived to see the Highland cows. He also joked that Alexander Graham Bell "had a kink" for deaf people. Before we even boarded, staff at check-in were mocking another guest's luggage within earshot of the line. I contacted Timberbush that evening. Despite their promise of a reply within 5 working days and four follow-ups from me, their Customer Experience team still hasn't responded almost two weeks later. On the same trip, we took a three-day Isle of Skye tour with Rabbie's, and it was one of the best travel experiences of our lives. There are excellent tour companies in Scotland. I'd book with one of them instead.

    via Tripadvisor

    Manuel_E · October 2026

    Great time tour!

    It was a great tour! The driver Brian was amazing, lots of fun and great landscapes, places to visit and cool for good photos! Highly recommend it!

    via Viator

    femkev753 · October 2026

    Brian, the best guide ever

    It was a really nice tour. The times between the stops aren’t to long and you get a nice view of scotland. Brian (our tour guide) was the best. He had the best (historical) stories and he told them in a very lively and fun way. He made the tour extra enjoyable and fun. We had the best time (and a good laugh) because of him. He also had good recommendations and there was a really good vibe because of him.

    via Tripadvisor

    nickhM1268TQ · October 2026

    Our guide Brian made my day

    Our guide Brian was so funny and he was telling so much about the history of Scotland and the culture!

    via Tripadvisor

    Angelica_S · October 2026

    Best day of the week!

    Absolutely epic tour! Our guide Brian was so entertaining, knowledgeable and a fantastic driver. Would recommend 100% to anyone.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    9.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $66 to $71
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    517
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Timberbush Tours, who run 32 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 74.1 and 1 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything Timberbush Tours runs

    Why this scores 82

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)79
    Review evidence (18% weight)91
    Booking momentum (14% weight)90
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)69
    Local standing (8% weight)36
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.

    How much does Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $66 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 9.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.

    Is Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 82 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 1,477 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour?

    +

    Around 517 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 9.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh, The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour?

    +

    Included: Driver/guide; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Live commentary on board. Not included: Food and drinks; Gratuities; Attraction Tickets; and On-board restrooms. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour?

    +

    Our Edinburgh tours depart from Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EW, outside the NCP Car Park. What3Words Address: ///casino.cove.works Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour?

    +

    Across 1,477 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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