Drum Castle

followed by Afternoon Tea at the Fife Arms Hotel

Drum Castle is part of the National Trust for Scotland. The Royal Forest and Tower of Drum were given to the Irvine family by Robert the Bruce in 1323. Later a Jacobean mansion house was added, and in the Victorian era, the lower hall was converted to a library, now containing a mighty 4,000 books. The beautiful Garden of Historic Roses is divided into quadrants that show how roses have been cultivated from the 17th to the 20th century.

The recently-refurbished Fife Arms Hotel is in the heart of Braemar, in the magnificent Cairngorms National Park. The five-star, award-winning hotel brings together Scottish heritage, craftsmanship and culture with world-class contemporary art and a strong sense of community. A visit to the luxurious hotel offers a range of unique experiences right on its doorstep, whether you want to tour the hotel’s exceptional art collection or walk up into the dramatic mountains surrounding it. You will enjoy a splendid afternoon tea and some free time in Braemar before heading back to Aberdeen.

Walking Tour of Aberdeen

On our walking tour of Aberdeen, we will discover some of Aberdeen’s hidden medieval past, admire the murals and urban art created with Aberdeen’s Nuart Festival, explore some of Aberdeen’s local delicacies and experience Aberdonian culture. The walk is city centre based and can be tailored to the group’s interests.

You will enjoy a light lunch at the popular Craftsman Coffee & Ale house, with a charcuterie and mezze platter and glass of wine before the group has some free time. The guide will be available to offer advice on places to visit or shops to explore.

We will have you back at your hotel in plenty of time to get ready for the Gala Dinner later that evening.