On arrival at Edinburgh Airport, collect your hire car before heading into the historic city centre.

Few travellers realise this, but Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, was born in Edinburgh in 1859. The whole city fuelled his imagination.

Start your tour on the Royal Mile, before heading to Victoria Street, Grassmarket, Greyfriars Kirkyard and then the elegant streets of the New Town.

The Brightside Signature Experience

Take part in a major immersive treasure hunt inspired by Sherlock Holmes. Working as a team, solve a series of puzzles, decipher clues and explore the streets of Edinburgh to unravel a mysterious case worthy of the famous detective.

Restaurant recommendations

• The Conan Doyle Pub
• The Witchery
• Howies

Overnight in Edinburgh.

Start your day by exploring the places associated with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s youth, including the University of Edinburgh, where he studied medicine under the renowned Dr Joseph Bell, whose remarkable powers of observation directly inspired the character of Sherlock Holmes.

Next, continue your exploration in Dean Village, before heading to the Pentland Hills, which offer a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the Scottish countryside.

In the late afternoon, visit the National Museum of Scotland, which, amongst other things, traces the history of the Victorian era in which Sherlock Holmes lived.

Restaurant recommendations

• The Sheep Heid Inn
• The Scran & Scallie

Overnight in Edinburgh.

Set off for the Highlands along one of Scotland’s most scenic routes.

Discover Pitlochry, the spectacular Queen’s View, House of Bruar, the Cairngorms National Park and the magnificent Loch Morlich.

The scenery gradually becomes wilder as you approach Inverness, the cultural capital of the Highlands.

Why not round off the day with a stroll along the River Ness?.

Restaurant recommendations

• Rocpool Restaurant
• The Mustard Seed

Overnight in Inverness.

Today, set off to discover Scotland’s great legends.

Set off on a cruise on Loch Ness before visiting the impressive ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Next, carry on to Fort Augustus, then explore the Culloden battlefield and the mysterious stone circles at Clava Cairns.

Combining history, archaeology and legends, this day out is sure to appeal to all lovers of mystery.

Restaurant recommendations

• Fiddler’s Highland Restaurant
• The Lock Inn

Overnight in Inverness.

Travel through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Highlands.

Discover the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, the Glenfinnan Monument, the magnificent Loch Shiel and Neptune’s Staircase, Britain’s longest staircase of locks.

You can then enjoy a pleasant walk at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak.

Restaurant recommendations

• Ben Nevis Inn
• Crannog Seafood Restaurant

Overnight in Fort William.

Travel through the legendary Glencoe Valley, renowned for its spectacular mountains and rich history.

Stop off at the famous Three Sisters, the Glencoe Visitor Centre, Glencoe Lochan and the vast landscapes of Rannoch Moor.

At the end of the day, head to Loch Lomond. Explore the charming village of Luss or enjoy a cruise on Britain’s largest lake.

Restaurant recommendations

• Kingshouse Hotel
• Clachaig Inn
• Loch Lomond Arms

Overnight stay at Loch Lomond.

Before heading to Edinburgh, discover Glasgow, famous for its Victorian architecture and rich cultural life.

Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, the University of Glasgow, Buchanan Street and George Square.

At the end of the day, head to Edinburgh and enjoy your last evening in the Scottish capital.

Restaurant recommendations

• Ubiquitous Chip
• The Gannet
• Ox and Finch

Overnight in Edinburgh.

Make the most of your final hours in Edinburgh by strolling along the Royal Mile one last time, popping into a few souvenir shops or enjoying a coffee in a historic café.

You should then return your hire car before heading to the airport.

We hope that this Sherlock Holmes tour of Scotland has given you the chance to discover a fascinating country, where the wild landscapes, legends and heritage inspired one of the greatest detectives of all time.