We aim to give you a full day of adventure and enjoyment, making you as comfortable as possible. We hope you will return again and again to visit the Scottish Highlands, as this is all but a taster session, although you will have plenty of time to experience every aspect of the Thistle tour.
Tour vehicle
This tour could be in a 4, 8, 16, 33 or 49 seater vehicle. It is usually in the smaller of these though.
What's included in the price?
Adult £145, Child £110, (includes entry to Dunrobin castle).
The Thistle booking system uses PayPal and may use these emails: MaxineMorleySmith@gmail.com or toast2alady@aol.com. It is secure and is safe but if you'd rather pay direct into Sum Up email us on info@thistleexcursions.co.uk and we will send you a payment link.
Tour timings
Depart at 8.30am, 9am or 10am if your ship docks later. Please meet your guide around 15 minutes prior to tour start time. Tour returns at least 1 hour before ship departure. The tour lasts from 6-8 hours but can be shortened to accommodate ship departure times. It can also leave later if your ship docks after 9. We will have you back in plenty of time for your ship's departure. Please do not be concerned as we will have you back on the ship before it sails.
For our cancellation policy see FAQs https://www.thistleexcursions.co.uk/FAQs
Millionaire’s View
Your adventure starts high above the Dornoch Firth at Struie Hill, where sweeping views known as the “Millionaire’s View” set the scene for an unforgettable day. The perfect photo stop to capture the wild beauty of the Highlands.
Heading down hill through the quaint village of Edderton past Balblair distillery
The scenery is stunning
Discover the Charm of Dornoch
Stroll through the picture-perfect seaside town of Dornoch, with its cobbled streets, artisan shops, and welcoming Highland character. Pop into the Dornoch Bookshop, a treasure trove for readers, brimming with Scottish history and stories to take home.
Heritage: Seat of the Earls of Sutherland, one of Scotland’s oldest clans. The name means “Fort of Robert” (after the 6th Earl in the 14th century).
History:
First recorded as a stronghold in 1401.
Extended over centuries, with the dramatic fairytale towers and spires added in the mid-1800s by Sir Charles Barry (architect of the Houses of Parliament).
Served as a naval hospital in WWI and a boys’ school in the 1960s.
Architecture: Largest house in the Northern Highlands with 189 rooms. A mix of medieval core, 17th-century extensions, and French château style additions.
Step Back in Time at Dornoch Cathedral
Marvel at the 13th-century Dornoch Cathedral, its ancient stone walls and stained glass steeped in legend. A peaceful sanctuary that has stood the test of time, beautifully restored by the Duke of Sutherland.
Highland Hospitality in local cafes and shops
Pause and refresh either in a local cafe or:
Dornoch Castle Hotel and Restaurant
Right in the centre of Dornoch opposite the cathedral, this 15th-century castle has been transformed into a welcoming hotel and restaurant. Visitors can enjoy Highland hospitality, local produce, including fresh salmon and venison with one of the best whisky bars in the north — all within the historic walls of a former bishop’s residence.
Davochfin Farm, Dornoch - HIGHLAND COWS
You cannot miss the gorgeous and cute Highland cows at the farm. Dorothy, Edith, Rhona and Minnie love to be patted and stroked. They're juveniles so our photos were taken at less than a year old, but by summer 2026 they will have sprouted longer horns. Also get a glimpse of the tame Valais rare breed sheep.
A Fairytale Castle - Dunrobin, Golspie
The highlight of the day – the enchanting Dunrobin Castle & Gardens. With its fairy-tale turrets, grand interiors, and spectacular formal gardens inspired by Versailles, this is the Highlands at their most regal. Explore opulent rooms, discover the powerful history of Clan Sutherland, and stroll through manicured grounds overlooking the Moray Firth.
Loch Fleet Nature Reserve
End your journey with a peaceful stop at Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve, a haven for seals basking on sandbanks and rare birds soaring above. A reminder of the untamed natural wonders that make the Highlands so special.
✨ This tour blends majestic castles, smooth whiskies, charming towns, and wild landscapes into a single unforgettable Highland experience.
Book this tour
Prices: Adult - £145, Kids - £110