Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour - Pricing and Value

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour

If you’re trying to squeeze the most out of a day in Scotland, this private tour offers a perfect balance of scenic beauty, history, and iconic sights. For $672 per group (up to four people), you’ll spend around eight hours exploring some of the most photogenic locations in the Scottish Highlands, from a boat cruise on Loch Lomond to the striking Kelpies sculptures, and the historic charm of Stirling. What really makes this experience shine is the personalized attention from your guide, which means you get tailored insights and flexible stops — ideal if you want to go beyond the typical bus tour.

Two things we especially appreciate are the intimate nature of a private tour—you won’t be stuck with a big crowd—and the opportunity to feed Highland cattle, which adds a fun, authentic touch. Plus, the scenic boat ride on Loch Lomond promises unforgettable views. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that some attractions, like Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument, have an extra admission fee that’s not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who love a blend of stunning landscapes, Scottish history, and unique local experiences, especially those who prefer a more personal, flexible approach rather than a crowded bus. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a comprehensive day-trip with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic moments.

Key Points

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour - Key Points

  • Private & Personalized: Tailored experience with a knowledgeable guide.
  • Scenic Highlights: Loch Lomond boat cruise and iconic Scottish statues.
  • Historic Sites: Explore Stirling and Doune Castle featured in popular shows.
  • Authentic Encounters: Hand-feed Highland cattle and enjoy Scottish snacks.
  • Flexible Options: Choose to include or skip certain attractions based on your interests.
  • Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and private vehicle transport.
You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour - A Detailed Look at the Experience

When you opt for this private tour, you’re investing in a day packed with visual splendor and engaging stories. From start to finish, the experience is designed to maximize your time and enjoyment of Scotland’s most compelling sights.

Pickup and Initial Stops

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel, holiday accommodation, or cruise ship terminal in Greenock or Glasgow, depending on your preference. This private arrangement means no waiting around for others or rushing to catch a bus. Your guide, who is typically multilingual in English, Punjabi, Urdu, Spanish, or French, will be waiting to greet you, ready to share their love of Scotland.

The first stop is Pollok Park, located just outside Glasgow. Here, you get the chance to hand-feed Highland cattle — a genuine highlight for many visitors. Feeding these gentle, shaggy animals immediately puts you in the Scottish countryside mood and makes for some lively photos. As one reviewer noted, “Feeding the Highland cows was a great icebreaker and set a fun tone for the rest of the day.”

The Kelpies: Scotland’s Horse Power

Next, your journey takes you to see the Kelpies, the world’s largest equine statues, standing nearly 100 feet tall. These massive sculptures are truly striking and make for fantastic photo opportunities. We love how the guide often shares interesting stories about their design and symbolism — representing the horse-powered heritage of Scotland’s canal history.

Photographers especially will appreciate the views from different angles, and some reviews mention how these sculptures are even more impressive in person than in pictures. The Kelpies are a perfect example of modern Scottish creativity merging with cultural roots, and you’ll likely find yourself captivated by their scale and detail.

A Stroll Through Stirling

From the Kelpies, a comfortable private vehicle takes you to Stirling, often called the “Gateway to the Highlands”. This historic city is packed with independent shops, cozy cafes, and landmarks with stories behind them. You’ll have time to explore the town at your own pace, absorbing its lively atmosphere.

If you prefer a dose of history, you can opt to visit Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument—both require an admission fee outside the tour price. Your guide can help pre-arrange tickets, ensuring you avoid long lines. Alternatively, you might choose to simply enjoy the panoramic views from the city’s vantage points, which are often highlighted in reviews as breathtaking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Doune Castle: Filming Location Extraordinaire

The tour includes a visit to Doune Castle, a site that has appeared in many popular TV and film productions. It famously starred as Winterfell in Game of Thrones, and was featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. This gives the castle a playful, almost surreal charm.

Reviews mention that Doune Castle’s well-preserved medieval architecture makes it a “must see,” especially for fans of TV shows or classic British comedy. You’ll have time to wander the grounds and imagine scenes from your favorite series — a real treat for enthusiasts of storytelling and history alike.

Loch Lomond: Scenic Cruise or Charming Village

The final major highlight is Loch Lomond, where you have a choice: hop aboard a boat cruise that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and water or visit the picturesque village of Luss instead.

The boat ride is a soothing way to enjoy Scotland’s lakescape, with some reviews describing it as a “highlight of the trip,” especially given the chance to see the landscape from a different perspective. The cruise costs around £15.50 per adult, which is extra, but many travelers find it worthwhile for the panoramic vistas.

If you prefer something more relaxed, your guide can take you to Luss, a charming village with colorful cottages, historic charm, and a rare Viking gravestone. This option is perfect for those wanting a quieter, more scenic stroll.

Pricing and Value

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour - Pricing and Value

At $672 for the entire group, this tour offers a personalized experience that many large group tours can’t match. The private guide, comfortable vehicle, bottled water, and Scottish snacks add to the value, especially considering the flexibility and insider knowledge you gain.

Keep in mind that optional attractions like Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument require extra payments—around £17.50 and £11.30, respectively. These costs are not included in the base price, but pre-booking can streamline your visit. The cruise is also optional, but many reviews rave about the scenic beauty it offers.

Overall, for travelers seeking an intimate, well-paced day with authentic moments and stunning scenery, this tour is a solid investment. It’s especially suitable for those who want the comfort of a private guide rather than a crowded bus, and who appreciate local stories and personalized stops.

What Travelers Are Saying

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour - What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews highlight the expertise of the guides as a major plus — “Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, making the day both fun and informative.” Others appreciate the relaxed pace: “It felt like we had Scotland to ourselves for the day, with plenty of time at each stop to soak in the views and explore.”

The boat cruise on Loch Lomond is often described as the crowning moment, with visitors remarking on the stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Feeding Highland cattle is another favorite, adding a playful, down-to-earth touch that makes the trip memorable.

The Sum Up

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour - The Sum Up

This private Scottish Highlands tour offers an excellent combination of breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and authentic experiences. It’s a flexible, intimate way to explore some of Scotland’s most iconic sights, tailored to your interests and pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a memorable day with beautiful photo opportunities, this tour delivers.

Its value lies in the personalized guidance and flexible itinerary, making it a worthwhile option for small groups or couples who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy Scotland at their own pace. The scenic boat cruise, Highland cattle feeding, and visits to Doune Castle and Stirling give you a well-rounded taste of what makes Scotland special.

For travelers seeking a comfortable, engaging, and customizable sightseeing day, this tour hits all the right notes — with the bonus of stunning landscapes and authentic Scottish culture along the way.

FAQ

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour - FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, especially with activities like feeding Highland cattle and enjoying the scenic views. However, check with the provider for specific age restrictions or recommendations.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers the private guide, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and Scottish snacks. Attractions like Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument, and the Loch Lomond cruise, have extra admission fees.

Can I choose to skip certain stops?
Yes, as a private tour, your guide can tailor the schedule slightly based on your interests, including skipping optional visits if you prefer.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, appropriate clothing for the weather, and a camera for those scenic shots. A small snack or extra water might also be handy.

How long is the boat cruise on Loch Lomond?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the cruise is a highlight of the day, offering scenic views and a relaxing experience — around 1 hour is typical.

Are there any restrictions during winter?
Yes, sailing times on Loch Lomond are restricted in the winter months, which could affect the cruise option.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, accommodation, or cruise ship terminal, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What languages are guided tours available in?
Guides speak English, Punjabi, Urdu, Spanish, and French, providing options for a diverse range of travelers.

Whether you’re after iconic sights, scenic tranquility, or a bit of both, this private tour offers a well-rounded and personalized taste of Scotland’s highlights, with enough flexibility to make it truly your own.

You can check availability for your dates here: