4-day central Scotland archaeological tour

Day 1 (Glasgow – Ben Lomond)

• AM The Ardess Hidden History Trail. Guided Ranger walk, set above the shores of beautiful Loch Lomond. Although this location appears wild and untouched, there are many reminders of an active community of farmers who lived by the banks of the Loch several hundred years ago. PM Complete the day with a cruise on the Loch.

Day 2 (Glasgow – Rockcliffe, Dumfries & Galloway)

• AM Mote of Mark. Ranger led guided walk which takes you to this Dark Age fort, built on top of a rocky knoll, overlooking the Rough Firth at Rockcliffe. Occupied from the 5th-7th centuries, this formed part of a busy market place for trade with the Continent. This is also a National Scenic area with beautiful views and abundant wildlife.
• PM Lunch and visit to Threave Garden, where the highest point used to form part of the largest horse fair in Europe. Threave has an excellent restaurant and Visitor facilities. Threave Castle, owned by Historic Scotland, is nearby.

Day 3 (Edinburgh – Falkirk - Lanark)

• AM Rough Castle Roman Fort & Black Hill. Rough Castle is the best surviving of the 16 forts built along the Antonine Wall, constructed for the Emperor Antoninus Pius as the northwest frontier of his Roman Empire. The wall and fort are very clear features, giving a good impression of what the site might have looked like in Roman times. Travel south to Black Hill (near Lanark), a rich archaeological complex with spectacular views over the Clyde valley.
• PM Spend the afternoon at the excellent New Lanark World Heritage Site, built in the early 1800s.

Day 4 (Edinburgh - Musselburgh)

• AM Newhailes House & Estate. The recently opened Newhailes House, near Edinburgh has caused great interest and excitement. A fine late 17th- century house set in a fascinating 18th- century landscape, it has given rise to many interesting discoveries as archaeological work continues to reveal more about this intriguing location. Enjoy a guided tour of the Estate followed by coffee and scones before joining a guided tour of the House .to complete your visit.
• PM Visit to Gladstone’s Land in the famous Royal Mile with leisure time in the capital city.

Stout walking shoes recommended for all visits