Harry Potter Tour and the borders

We travel out of bustling Edinburgh and make our way through the rolling Moorfoot Hills to the charming town of Melrose where we will enjoy a photo-stop at the ancient Abbey. Dating from the 12th Century the Abbey was attacked and ransacked by the English troops on many occasions. Our famous King, Robert the Bruce, had the Abbey rebuilt and it is said that he loved it so much his heart was buried here. During our time here look out for the gargoyle of a pig playing the bagpipes!!

Kelso

At the confluence of the Rivers Tweed and Teviot lies the pleasant market town of Kelso. Kelso is an ideal place to use as a base for exploring the Borders, the Berwickshire Coast and North Northumberland. The centre of the town is an impressive cobbled square surrounded by Georgian buildings. Shortly we will cross from Scotland into England and enter the ancient Kingdom of Northumbria. 

Alnwick Castle

Impressive Alnwick Castle is our next treat. After Windsor Castle it is the second largest inhabited castle in England and has been occupied for over 700 years. Alnwick Castle is considered one of the finest castles in England and proudly known as “The Windsor of the North”. Visitors can step into the unexpected in the spectacular Alnwick Garden, with its wonderful Grand Cascade and the extensive Poison Gardens. Its grounds were also used in the Harry Potter films. If you are a fan of the Harry Potter movies then Alnwick is sure to be familiar to you as it was here that Harry and his classmates had their first flights using broomsticks. 

Bamburgh Castle

The attractive village of Bamburgh is dominated by beautiful Bamburgh Castle, once the seat of the Kings of Northumbria. During our time in the village why not seek out the story of Grace Darling, a famed heroine who rescued five people from a wrecked steamer. She is buried in nearby St Aidan’s Churchyard.

Our journey back to Edinburgh will take us towards the ancient Border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed then back into Scotland once more. There are wonderful coastal views to savour as we make our way towards Dunbar and journey's end in Edinburgh.