Discover your roots among Scotland’s monuments, memorials, castles, cathedrals, and more with Edinburgh as your base. As the country’s capital and seat of government since the 15th century, Edinburgh brims with history amid its stunning neoclassical architecture, cozy cobbled streets, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Explore beyond the city’s sweeping views and storied past with side trips to Glasgow and other signature sites.
As part of its Heritage Tours program, the NYG&B is offering an exclusive guided tour of Scotland, October 1–7, 2023. This small group tour includes an experienced guide, hotel accommodations and daily breakfast, transport to attractions, and museum tickets. You’ll also have time to explore on your own.
Aided by onsite experts and anchored in Edinburgh, follow in the pathways of the past as we explore and learn through a week of private tours, educational events, and sightseeing. Highlights include Edinburgh Castle, the National Library of Scotland, Glasgow Cathedral, and much more.
Register online or contact Jen Davis, Vice President, Advancement and Membership, at 212-755-8532 x208 or jdavis@nygbs.org for additional details and questions. The deadline for registration is June 15, 2023. We hope you will join us for this exciting adventure!
Schedule (Subject to change)
Sunday, October 1
- Arrive in Edinburgh anytime.
- Check in at hotel.
- Enjoy welcome cocktails and introductions.
Monday, October 2
- Explore Edinburgh, including
- The Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Hill—one of the oldest fortified places in Europe, stretching back to prehistory.
- The National Library of Scotland, with its world-class collections of rare historical documents and other materials specializing in Scotland's history and culture.
- The National Museum of Scotland, where you can explore collections of artifacts and treasures from both Scotland and around the world.
Tuesday, October 3
- Visit the Scottish Genealogy Society, the medieval Gothic St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Royal Mile, the iconic main thoroughfare that runs through the heart of Edinburgh.
- After lunch, explore the stately Palace of Holyroodhouse, the principal royal residence in Scotland since the 16th century.
Wednesday, October 4
- Travel to Glasgow to see Glasgow Cathedral, the city’s oldest building and the most complete medieval cathedral on the Scottish mainland.
- Enjoy lunch at the opulent Kelvingrove Gallery and Museum, and then explore its 22 galleries that include works by the Old Masters, decorative arts, and one of the finest collections of arms and armor in the world.
- Return to Edinburgh
Thursday, October 5
- Visit the National Records of Scotland, located in the historic neoclassical General Register House building, and explore its extensive archival records spanning centuries.
- Enjoy lunch in the bustling port town of Leith and see the Royal Yacht Britannia, launched by Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and a beloved former floating residence of the monarchy.
Friday, October 6
- Visit the ornate and intricately carved Rosslyn Chapel, which played a starring role in Dan Brown’s fictional The Da Vinci Code.
- Enjoy lunch at and explore Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited home and lived in by the Stuart family since 1491.
- Stop in the charming market town of Peebles by the River Tweed for some shopping or people-watching at a local café.
- Group farewell dinner at the Spirit of Scotland for a rousing evening of traditional Scottish song and dance.
Saturday, October 7
- Have an optional group breakfast and depart Edinburgh anytime.
Hotel and Pricing
Trip pricing begins at $5,950 per person, based on double occupancy, with a 50% deposit required on registration. The single supplement is $1,400. There are supplemental packages available that include research and a customized itinerary with a NYG&B genealogist during the tour. Note: airfare and airport transportation are not included in this package.