Masinter Scotland & York Explorations - V2 - Final Information Document

Sunday 14th July – Monday 22nd July 2024

Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Overview

We are delighted to share the Final Information details for your clients trip below, and are very much looking forward to welcoming them here!

While we hope things run smoothly for the duration of their stay, we know that unforeseen circumstances do happen and there are times when the clients may need to contact us for assistance. Please see below for ways to get in touch while on the trip;

Email: If you have a general question please feel free to email your Sales Consultant or Agent.
Note – Emails are monitored during office hours only.

Call us directly: Office number +44 (0) 1479 420 020
Please note: Office hours are Mon- Fri 9:00 – 5:30

Out of Office Number: +44 (0)7766 794 640 for use after 5:30pm and at the weekends.
Note: If you require immediate assistance for an issue, problem or emergency, please call or Whatsapp our Out of Office Hours Number

 

Get under the skin of the real Scotland and York exploring historic cities and Highland mountains. Feel the stories of the past come alive as you travel through this vibrant and unique landscape. Discover the wild beauty of the remote glens and enjoy the contrast of the sociable culture in our welcoming towns. Your expert private guides will not just take care of  logistics, but will add their expertise and local knowledge to share their favourite insiders secrets with you, creating memories to cherish for years to come.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Sunday 14th July | Welcome to Scotland! | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Monday 15th July | Discovering Historic Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Tuesday 16th July | Explore St Andrews, Exclusive Distillery Tour & Transfer to Gleneagles | Overnight: Auchterarder

Day 4 | Wednesday 17th July | Hiking Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park & Storyteller Experience | Overnight: Auchterarder

Day 5 | Thursday 18th July | Paul Transfers To Glasgow | Overnight: Auchterarder

Day 6 | Friday 19th July | Free Day At Gleneagles for Renee | Overnight: Auchterarder

Day 7 | Saturday 20th July | Reunited Paul & Renee Head South by Train | Overnight: Ripon

Day 8 | Sunday 21st July | Highlights & History of York | Overnight: Ripon

Day 9 | Monday 22nd July | Train South to London

Highlights

  • Experience the highlights of Scottish culture enjoy trying them out for yourselves
  • Immerse yourself in some of the best Scottish scenery hiking with your qualified and knowledgeable guide
  • Discover flavour depths and history as you savour a dram of the famous Scottish 'Uisge Beatha'
  • Relax and get pampered in your luxurious 5* accommodation

Day by Day

Day 1 - Sunday 14th July - Welcome to Scotland!

Arrive into Edinburgh Airport where you will be met by a private chauffeur and transferred to your iconic city centre hotel. Depending on your arrival time you may wish to head out and explore the city a little or you can choose to relax in your welcoming hotel.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Castle View Double & 1 x Classic Twin
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Austrain Air (Operated by Lufthansa) | Flight Number: 7303 (LH 962)
Departure Airport: Frankfurt | Departure Time: 11:05
Arrival Airport: Edinburgh | Arrival Time: 12:05

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2706276
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport Arrivals | Pick Up Time: 12:05 | Approx Duration: 0.75 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private Driver will have a sign with your name on.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Witchery | Location: Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NF
Reservation Time: 18:45 | Booking Reference: BJ4CGMKJ
Phone: +44 (0) 131 225 0974 | Website: http://www.thewitchery.com/

Please note that this is only a table reservation. Please pay directly.

Day 2 - Monday 15th July - Discovering Historic Edinburgh

Spend the morning exploring the tales of the cobbled streets and alleyways of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town with an expert local city guide. You will visit some of the famous sights as well as discovering some lesser known gems as you stroll the winding cobbled streets. At lunchtime, meet your driver guide who will be with you for the rest of your trip.

Your driver guide will be able to take you to hike up to the top of Arthur’s Seat to enjoy the sweeping views out over the city from the top of this extinct volcano. Late afternoon you will discover yet another side of Edinburgh as you adventure down underneath the city on a private underground tour of a warren of tiny fascinating streets dating from the 17th century.  Head back to your luxurious hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening before continuing your explorations tomorrow.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Castle View Double & 1 x Classic Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Private Walking Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour
Expert Local City Guide: Jane Roy
Start Location: Balmoral Hotel Reception | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 7966 447 737

Day 2 - Guide Details - Alan Wright Read More +

Name: Alan Wright
Contact Number: +44 (0)7976 520 990
Meeting Place: Lunch Location | Meeting Time: 13:00

Day 2 - Private Underground Streets Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Underground Streets Tour
| Start Time: 17:15 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Scran & Scallie | Location: 1 Comely Bank Road, Stockbridge, Edinburgh, EH4 1DT
Reservation Time: 18:45 | Booking Reference: BNAL2L6C - M. Masinter
Phone: +44 (0) 131 332 6281 | Website: https://scranandscallie.com/

Please note that this is only a table reservation. Please pay directly.

Day 3 - Tuesday 16th July - Explore St Andrews, Exclusive Distillery Tour & Transfer to Gleneagles

This morning you head into the Kingdom of Fife to explore the historic university town of St Andrews. Spend your morning on a fascinating walking tour with an expert local guide hearing the stories of this beautiful coastal town. More recently the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge famously met during their studies here but St Andrews is much better known for being the home of golf and the hallowed ‘Old Course’.

Finish your afternoon with a tour of the oldest working whisky distillery in Scotland, ending with a tasting flight of special drams. Toast your adventures with the traditional Scottish ‘Slainte Mhath’, meaning good health before your guide takes you onwards. Settle into your luxurious hotel, home for the next few nights.  

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

NOTE – Departure transfer has not been included for Sarah.
If this is required please advise as soon as possible.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Main House Estate Double & 1 x Country Double (for solo occ)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Private Walking Tour of St Andrews Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour of St Andrews
| Start Time: 10:30

Day 3 - Lunch Details Read More +

Restaurant: Tom Morris Bar and Grill, St Andrews Links
Reservation Time: 13:00

Your private guide will join you for this lunch.
If you would prefer that they did not please let us know, they will not be offended.

Day 3 - Private Glenturret Distillery Tour & Tasting Read More +

Activity: Private Glenturret Distillery Tour & Tasting
| Start Time: 15:30 | Approx Duration: 1.5 hrs

Private Tour & Lalique Whisky Flight Tasting

Day 4 - Wednesday 17th July - Hiking Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park & Storyteller Experience

You have the full day to explore some of the beautiful mountains and glens of the National Park on foot today and you will be spoilt for choice with all the possible routes. Together with your guide you will decide on an option which suits your preferred level of challenge (and energy!), and the weather. Maybe conquer a local summit for fabulous views, or enjoy a gentle atmospheric exploration to discover a waterfall or forest walk. No matter what you pick, your guide will make the landscape come alive with stories and local insights.

After your hike settle down with a celebratory beverage to relax together and listen to a local storyteller sharing stories of the past and Scottish legends that have been handed down through families over hundreds of years. Maybe share your own stories of your trip and laugh about your new family memories.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Main House Estate Double & 1 x Country Double (for solo occ)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Private Storyteller Experience Read More +

Activity: Private Storyteller Experience
| Start Time: 17:00 | Approx Duration: 1.5 hrs

Please note that is will take place in a public space, but your storyteller is exclusive to you.

Day 5 - Thursday 18th July - Paul Transfers To Glasgow

A private transfer will collect Paul from Gleneagles and take you to Glasgow to start your Open adventures. Waving farewell to Highland Perthshire for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations together.

Meanwhile Renee stays at Gleneagles to enjoy the luxurious facilities until the 20th.

NOTE – Departure transfer has not been included for Eleanor.
If this is required please advise as soon as possible.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Main House Estate Double for Solo Occ
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2706277
Pick Up Location: Gleneagles Reception | Pick Up Time: 11:00
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

For 1 Pax

Finish Location = Western House Hotel, 66 Craigie Rd, Ayr, KA8 0HA

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 6 - Friday 19th July - Free Day At Gleneagles for Renee

Renee can enjoy today relaxing in this charming country estate. Perhaps recharge in the spa or take in the beautiful scenery with a walk amongst the fresh country air.

Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Main House Estate Double for Solo Occ
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Saturday 20th July - Reunited Paul & Renee Head South by Train

A private transfer will collect Paul from Glasgow, taking you to be reunited with Renee at Gleneagles, before taking you both to catch your train in Edinburgh. Waving farewell to Scotland for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

A relaxing train journey south will give you time to enjoy the scenery you travel through. Upon your arrival into York you will be met by a private chauffeur and transferred to your hotel where you’ll settle into your lovely accommodation and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Overnight: Ripon | Grantley Hall
Room Type: Executive Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2706278
Pick Up Location: Western House Hotel & Gleneagles | Pick Up Time: 09:00 | Approx Duration: 3 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Picking up Paul to start & then collecting Renee from Gleneagles, before heading to Edinburgh Waverley Train Station.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 7 - Train Details Read More +

Travel Date: July 20, 2024 | Rail Operator: LNER - London North Eastern Railway
Departure Train Station: Edinburgh Waverley Train Station | Departure Time: 13:00
Arrival Train Station: York | Arrival Time: 15:30

Journey Details – Direct, Zero Changes

Tickets – First Class Coach L, seats 11 & 12

Booking Reference – CBE7YSDRCL9

Notes – Your E-Tickets can be found in the ‘Important Additional Information’ section at the end of this itinerary. Please ensure that you have your tickets ready for checking at the Train Station and on board.

Day 7 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Your Hotel - Grantley Hall
Booking Reference: 270402421
Pick Up Location: York Train Station | Pick Up Time: 15:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 1765 620 070

This transfer is operated by Sovereign Chauffeurs, arranged by your hotel.

You driver will be Terry, contact number +44 (0) 7843 079 354

Day 8 - Sunday 21st July - Highlights & History of York

After a relaxed breakfast, your private transfer will take you to meet your expert city guide to enjoy a day exploring York, one of England’s most beautiful historic cities. Ribbon your way through the snickelways on your private walking tour, admiring the stunning medieval architecture and magnificent Georgian townhouses.

Hear fascinating tales about the past inhabitants from your guide as you stroll down Shambles Street, considered one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets, and admire the breathtaking stained glass windows of York Minster Cathedral. Walk England’s longest city walls, where medieval stone tops earthen ramparts that mark much earlier defences. Sample some local cuisine in this foodie haven and follow your curiosity with advice from your expert guide. Later on, a private chauffeur will take you back to Grantley Hall.

Overnight: Ripon | Grantley Hall
Room Type: Executive Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Your Hotel - Grantley Hall
Booking Reference: 270402421
Pick Up Location: Hotel Reception | Pick Up Time: 08:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 1765 620 070

Finish Destination = York

This transfer is operated by Sovereign Chauffeurs, arranged by your hotel.

You driver will be Terry, contact number +44 (0) 7843 079 354

Day 8 - Private Walking Tour of York Read More +

Activity: Private Walking Tour of York
Local Expert City Guide: Sarah Cowling
Start Location: Main Entranceway of the York Art Gallery | Start Time: 09:30 | Approx Duration: 7 hrs
End Location: Clifford's Tower | End Time: 5:00 pm
Phone: +44 (0) 7956 636 980

This includes entry to York Minster & 2 other entry fees as per interest if required.

Today is very flexible and your guide will personalise the day to your interests and energy levels.

Day 8 - Lunch Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Ivy | Location: 2 St Helen's Square, York, YO1 8QP
Reservation Time: 13:00

This meal is included and will be settled by your guide up to a budget of £45 pp.

Day 8 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Your Hotel - Grantley Hall
Booking Reference: 270402421
Pick Up Location: York - Clifford's Tower | Pick Up Time: 17:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 1765 620 070

Finish Destination = Your Hotel

This transfer is operated by Sovereign Chauffeurs, arranged by your hotel.

You driver will be Terry, contact number +44 (0) 7843 079 354

Day 9 - Monday 22nd July - Train South to London

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to York train station for your onward connection. Enjoy your first class seats as you get closer to London, anticipating your city explorations ahead.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Your Hotel - Grantley Hall
Booking Reference: 270402421
Pick Up Location: Hotel Reception | Pick Up Time: 08:30 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Phone: +44 (0) 1765 620 070

Finish Location = York Train Station

This transfer is operated by Sovereign Chauffeurs, arranged by your hotel.

You driver will be Terry, contact number +44 (0) 7843 079 354

Day 9 - Train Details Read More +

Travel Date: July 22, 2024 | Rail Operator: LNER - London North Eastern Railway
Departure Train Station: York Train Station | Departure Time: 09:57
Arrival Train Station: London King's Cross | Arrival Time: 11:48

Journey Details – Direct, Zero Changes

Tickets – First Class coach M, Seats 13 & 14

Booking Reference – 24SKVVK2Z7

Notes – Your E-Tickets can be found in the ‘Important Additional Information’ section at the end of this itinerary. Please ensure that you have your tickets ready for checking at the Train Station and on board.

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 8 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
    • 4 Pax for first 2 nights in Edinburgh (2 Rooms)
    • 3 pax for 2 nights at Gleneagles (2 Rooms)
    • 1 pax for 2 nights at Gleneagles
    • 2 pax for 2 nights near York
  • Some meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide in Scotland from the afternoon of Day 2 to the end of Day 4
  • Transfers & Transport as below;
    • Airport Arrival Transfer on day 1, including Meet & Greet
    • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days in Scotland
    • Private Transfer for Paul from Gleneagles to Western House Hotel in Ayr
    • Private Transfer from Western House Hotel to Edinburgh Waverley Train Station on 20th
      • This goes via Gleneagles to pick up Renee on route
    • First Class Train Tickets for 2 pax from Edinburgh to York
    • Private Transfer from York Train Station to Grantley Hall on 20th
    • Private Transfer To York from Grantley Hall & Back on 21st
    • Private Transfer from Grantley Hall to York Train Station on 22nd
    • First Class Train Tickets for 2 pax from York to London
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Half Day Walking Tour with Expert Local Guide in Edinburgh
      • Includes entry to Edinburgh Castle & one other attraction as per interest
    • Private Tour of Underground Streets Experience
    • Private Half Day Walking Tour with Expert Local Guide in St Andrews
      • Includes entry to 2 attractions as per interest
    • Private Tour & Tasting Flight at Glenturret Distillery
    • Private Storyteller Experience
    • Private Walking Tour of York with Expert Local City guide
      • Includes entry to York Minster & 2 other entry fees as per interest
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather in Scotland can be very changeable. Suitable clothing and footwear is essential, as well as a flexible attitude. Plans may have to be changed to accommodate Mother Nature, and your guide will have back-up plans that they will discuss with you if required.

 

Essential Packing List

  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof over-pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes are not suitable for any hiking in Scotland)
  • Day pack 20-30 litre for carrying water and extra layers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Warm layers
  • Warm hat, gloves and a neck gaiter
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Smart casual attire for dinners

Note: If you would like us to provide trekking poles for your use then please just let us know and we will ensure these are available for you.

 

Luggage Notes

Please note that we expect travellers to bring an average of One Large Holdall or Suitcase and up to Two smaller day-bags or hand-luggage sized pieces. If you expect to bring more than this then please let us know well in advance of arrival so that we can ensure there is capacity for this (additional charges will apply if separate luggage transfers are required).

 

Useful Contacts

24 hour in-country support (Wilderness Scotland):  +44 (0)1479 420 020, or out with regular office hours +44 (0)7766 794 640 (urgent calls only)
Emergency services:  999 or 112NHS 24 (24 hour free medical advice):  111

 

Tipping Guidelines

For tipping our guides – We don’t generally recommend a set amount as tipping is not expected in the same way that it is in North America. However, similar North American travel companies generally suggest something along the lines of £10-30 per person per day for your guide, which is a wide range to choose from. Generally, we would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide, and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations and choose an amount you are comfortable with.

For local services such as restaurants again tipping is not expected but if you receive great service then 10-15% of the bill is normal.

Important Additional Information Read More
  • General Info - Scotland General Info - PDF: View Now
  • General Info - England General Info - PDF: View Now
  • Train Ticket From Edinburgh to York - L11 - First Class - PDF: View Now
  • Train Ticket From Edinburgh to York - L12 - First Class - PDF: View Now
  • Train Ticket From York to London Kings Cross - M13 - First Class - PDF: View Now
  • Train Ticket From York to London Kings Cross - M14 - First Class - PDF: View Now
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

The Balmoral Hotel

1 Princes Street | Edinburgh |
EH2 2EQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)131 556 2414
Web: roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel

Gleneagles Hotel

Auchterarder, Perthshire | Auchterarder |
PH3 1NF | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1764 290 020
Web: gleneagles.com

Grantley Hall

Ripon | Yorkshire |
HG4 3ET | England
Phone: +44 (0) 1765 620 070
Web: grantleyhall.co.uk

Meet Your Guide

Alan Wright

Contact Number: +44 (0)7976 520 990

Caring | Adaptable | Entertaining

I fell in love with the outdoors over 25 years ago following a week’s solo excursion walking the West Highland Way, which introduced me to the stunning scenery and landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

Since then, I have used every opportunity to visit and walk Scotland’s hills, mountains, glens & islands, thus building upon my experience and knowledge, which eventually led me to the dream job as a walking guide – as I aimed to break free from my career in finance.

My walking experiences have taken me to the French & Austrian Alps, The Pyrenees and the wilds of the bush & rainforest in Queensland, Australia, but I would never swap any of them for what can be found in Scotland’s countryside.

There are so many things that make me passionate about what the outdoors in Scotland has to offer. The hills & mountains, particularly in winter, are always memorable no matter what the weather brings but equally, combining a walk by witnessing the wildlife, learning or revisiting the history of the area is something that I look to take home with me from every walk that I undertake.

I am deeply passionate and fascinated with my country’s varied, enthralling & enchanting history.

Its landmark and defining moments and, of course, its distinctive and memorable characters that have defined and shaped this wonderful country.

There is one pleasure which outweighs everything else, and that is sharing and spreading the joy of these wonderful experiences with others.

Places to Play

Living just north of Stirling, I am extremely fortunate to be based so close to fantastic areas such as the Loch Lomond National Park and Highland Perthshire, but in terms of scenery, wilderness, remoteness, and wonderful landscapes, the wilds of North West Highlands are my “Jewel in the Crown” – each visit just draws me in more and more.

Not a lot of people know this

My main ambition in life is to witness the extremely rare Scottish Wildcat in its natural habitat. This is something that very few people have ever been fortunate to have witnessed. Hopefully, one day it will be me!

Virtuoso

Masinter Scotland & York Explorations – V2 – Final Information Document

Sunday 14th July – Monday 22nd July 2024