easy
8–10 hours
While mostly walking, participants should be comfortable on varying terrains and walking for extended periods.
Discover the rich history of Robert Burns on a private full-day tour through Alloway, visiting his birthplace, iconic bridges, and the scenic coast. An engaging experience for literature fans and history enthusiasts alike.
Private Tour | £550
Embark on a full-day private tour exploring the life and legacy of Robert Burns in picturesque Alloway. Visit his birthplace, the iconic Brig O’ Doon, and the haunting Auld Kirk. Discover the beauty of Dunure and enjoy the Burns museum, where poetry and history come alive in a captivating journey.
Private Tour: (1-8 people) £550
Suitable from +5 years old
Full day
Come with us and enjoy this unique encounter with Scotland’s favourite son, Robert Burns. Experience the famous sites in Alloway where Burns lived and was inspired to write his most famous work.
We will set off down towards the beautiful Ayrshire coastline and visit our first location of the day by the tiny fishing village of Dunure. Here we can explore the ancient castle of Dunure and enjoy the views over the Firth of Clyde towards the Isle of Arran.
We will then continue the road to Alloway where Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns was born. Here we will visit many places mentioned in his poems like the Brig o’ Doon and the Alloway Old Kirk. The Burns museum will tell you everything you need to know about this great man, with many of the poet’s manuscripts on display. We will then take a walk through the famous Burns gardens where you will find a 70-foot high Grecian-style temple, designed by Sir Thomas Hamilton, complete with nine pillars representing muses from Greek mythology built in memory of Burns less than 20 years after his death.
We will then have lunch at the Brig o' Doon House Hotel before visiting the 15th century Bridge where Burns was influenced to write one of his most famous poems, Tam o’ Shanter. It’s the bridge which Tam o’ Shanter crossed on horseback, fleeing from the witches and warlocks on his tail who were unable to follow him across water.
Just a short walk and across the way and we will be inside the grounds of the Auld Kirk where we will visit the graves of Burns’ father and sister. This 16th century church was already a ruin during Burns’ lifetime and used for the spot where Tam spies on the witches and warlocks who gave him chase.
We will then visit the famous Burns cottage where he and his family lived. The walls of the cottage have been artfully painted with fragments of his verse and a braw selection of Scots words, such as ‘hawkie’ and ‘crambo-jingle.’
From here, we will finish our Burns experience and take you back to your ship.
If we can assist you with finding accommodation, please give us a call under +44 (0) 7446228213
Expect to walk on uneven surfaces and cobblestone paths during the tour.
Capture scenic views, historical sites, and memorable moments along the route.
Scottish coast weather can be unpredictable; pack a waterproof jacket.
Tours are private and fill quickly, so reserve to secure your preferred date.
The tour visits sites deeply connected to Burns’ early life and some locations that inspired his poetry, dating back to the 18th century.
Alba Experiences emphasizes responsible tourism, encouraging visitors to respect local sites and wildlife, and supports local preservation efforts.
Supportive shoes are key for walking on cobblestone and uneven paths.
Be prepared for rain and wind typical of Scottish coastal weather.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Capture scenic views and historic sites.
Stay hydrated during the outdoor walking portions.