Highland Cows Glasgow Cathedral Kelpies Tour from Edinburgh

Planning a day trip that hits some of Scotland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving? This private tour from Edinburgh promises an engaging mix of wildlife, history, and striking sculptures, all wrapped into about five hours. It’s a great way to see the countryside and some major attractions with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

What really grabs us about this experience are the personalized attention you get—it’s exclusively for your group—and the chance to meet the famous Highland Cows, which are genuinely adorable. Plus, visiting the Kelpies—the largest horse statues in the world—is something that makes for fantastic photos. The tour also offers a deep dive into Glasgow’s historic sites, including the 12th-century cathedral, making it a well-rounded glimpse into both city and rural Scotland.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that Midhope Castle is only viewable from the outside during certain months (December to March). If you’re a fan of Outlander, this might be a small disappointment depending on your timing. The overall experience is best suited to those who enjoy a flexible, curated day out that combines scenic views with cultural highlights. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to see a broad slice of Scottish life, from its historic architecture to its beloved farm animals.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience tailored for your group.
• Includes key highlights such as Glasgow Cathedral, Highland Cows, the Kelpies, and Outlander’s Lallybroch.
• Accessible for various languages including English, Punjabi, Urdu, Portuguese, French, and Spanish.
• Duration of around 5 hours makes it a compact but fulfilling trip.
• Price reflects the exclusivity and personalized guide service for up to four people.
• Some attractions like Midhope Castle may have seasonal restrictions, but you’ll still get great scenic views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Scottish Day Trip

This tour offers a mix of portraits in Scotland’s rural and urban landscapes, focusing on some of the most photogenic and culturally significant spots. It’s a private tour, meaning your guide will focus solely on your group, providing a more relaxed and flexible experience compared to larger coach trips.

Starting from your Edinburgh accommodation, you’ll be picked up and whisked away to a farm just outside the city, where you’ll meet and feed Highland Cows. These hairy, gentle creatures are a highlight for many visitors. We loved the way the guide shared interesting facts about these iconic animals, making the experience both fun and educational. Feeding them snacks is a simple but memorable way to connect with Scotland’s countryside.

After the farm, the journey takes you to Glasgow—an easy drive with plenty of scenic views along the way. Your first stop is the Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning 12th-century structure that’s survived the turbulence of religious reformation and urban change. Expect to explore its impressive architecture and learn about its significance, especially if you’ve got an interest in history or architecture.

From there, you’ll stroll through the Glasgow Necropolis, a hilltop cemetery with beautiful views over the city. This spot offers a quiet moment amid historic monuments, which adds a contemplative layer to the trip. The tour also includes visits to the museum of religious art and the oldest surviving house from the 15th century—these highlights give a tangible sense of Glasgow’s long and layered past.

The vibrant city also features a tour of Glasgow Murals, where you’ll find huge, colorful paintings tucked around the city center. It’s a fun way to see Glasgow’s street art scene and learn about its creative spirit.

Leaving the city behind, the next major stop is the Kelpies—massive horse-head sculptures that dominate the landscape and are among the largest in the world. They’re an engineering marvel and photographically striking. You’ll appreciate the scale and intricate craftsmanship, which make for fun photo opportunities.

Finally, the highlight for Outlander fans: the Midhope Castle, often called “Lallybroch” from the series. Depending on the season, it may be viewable only from outside, but even that is worth a quick stop to get a sense of the show’s Scottish setting.

In-Depth Look at Each Stop

Highland Cows and the Farm

This part of the tour is simple but charming. Meeting the hairy coos on a farm outskirts of Edinburgh offers a rare glimpse into Scottish rural life. The guide will likely share stories about the cows’ history and what makes them so beloved. Feeding them snacks is a straightforward delight, especially for animal lovers or families.

Glasgow Cathedral

Stepping into Glasgow Cathedral feels like stepping back in time. Its construction dates back to the 12th century, and remarkably, it has survived many upheavals, including the Reformation. The guide’s insights about the building’s history enrich the visit, making it more than just admiring stonework—it’s about understanding its resilience and significance.

More Great Tours Nearby

Glasgow Necropolis

Perched above the city, the Necropolis is a peaceful spot with impressive tombstones and statues, many dating from the 19th century. The views over Glasgow are fantastic, and walking among the monuments offers a reflective pause in the day. It’s a good break from the busier city streets.

Glasgow Murals

This tour of murals is a fun addition, revealing Glasgow’s creative side. The murals are large, vivid, and some quite intricate, tucked away in alleyways and side streets. Your guide will point out notable pieces and perhaps share stories about the artists behind them.

The Kelpies

Arguably the most visually stunning part of the trip, the Kelpies are towering sculptures of horse heads, each over 100 feet tall. Located in a canal basin, they symbolize Scottish heritage and the importance of horses in Scotland’s industry. The scale and detail make them a must-see, and they’re particularly impressive in photos against the sky.

Midhope Castle (“Lallybroch”)

For Outlander fans, this is a real treat. The castle’s exterior is what many recognize as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s family home. While the castle is only open from the outside during winter months, seeing it from afar still sparks the magic of the series. During the warmer months, you might get a closer look inside for a small fee.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing at $565 per group up to 4 people might seem steep at first glance, but considering the private experience, it’s a good deal for a tailored day out. The tour includes hotel pickup, bottled water, snacks, and entry to several attractions, which adds to the overall value. The only extra cost is the £7 entry fee for Midhope Castle, if you choose to go inside when it’s open.

The duration of about five hours means you’ll cover a lot without feeling rushed. The flexibility of pickup and drop-off locations—Edinburgh, Queensferry, or Stirling—makes it convenient no matter where you’re staying nearby.

The guide’s expertise was highlighted in reviews, with visitors praising their knowledge and friendliness. The ability to choose from multiple languages also helps make the experience accessible for international visitors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want an engaging, private experience without the hassle of self-driving. It suits those interested in Scottish history, architecture, and countryside without spending the entire day on a coach. If you’re a family, a couple, or a small group of friends looking for a personalized day out, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and informative.

It’s also good for Outlander fans, animal lovers, or anyone wanting to see iconic Scottish symbols and scenery in one compact trip. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with plenty of photo stops and interesting stories, this will fit well.

Final Thoughts

This Highland Cows, Glasgow Cathedral, and Kelpies tour from Edinburgh strikes a nice balance between city sights, countryside charm, and cultural symbols. The private nature of the tour, coupled with a knowledgeable guide, makes it a memorable way to see Scotland without the stress of navigating on your own.

While it isn’t a full-day exploration, it packs enough highlights to give you a good taste of what Scotland has to offer. The combination of adorable Highland Cows, historic architecture, and jaw-dropping sculptures makes it a good pick for anyone wanting a diverse, personalized experience.

If you’re after a flexible, well-organized day that’s packed with iconic sights and engaging stories, this tour is worth considering—especially for small groups who value tailored attention and local insight.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, ensuring a personalized experience with a dedicated guide.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour can be conducted in English, Punjabi, Urdu, Portuguese, French, or Spanish, offering options for international travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 5 hours, making it a half-day adventure that covers multiple highlights.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. The tour offers snacks and bottled water, but you’ll need to plan for lunch separately.

Is Midhope Castle open to visit inside?
During December to March, Midhope Castle is closed, though you can still see it from the outside. In other months, you can pay a small fee (£7) for entry.

What is the price per group?
It costs $565 for up to 4 people, which includes all the listed attractions and services.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While children who enjoy animals and history will likely have fun, the tour is designed for small groups and isn’t specifically targeted as a family tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning.

In the end, if you’re after a relaxed, intimate way to see some of Scotland’s most photogenic and meaningful sights, this tour checks many boxes. It balances scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and fun animal encounters, all led by an experienced guide who makes the journey both informative and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: