Tag: day trips

New Edinburgh Walking and Cycling Day Trip Routes launched

John Muir Way launches new routes

If you’re seeking inspiration for outdoor activities this weekend, during the holidays or on your next day off, the John Muir Way may have the answer. A selection of one-day and half-day routes has been created across central Scotland, to be explored on foot or by bike.

They include:

Each is based around a part of the longer John Muir Way coast to coast trail and is designed to offer a micro-adventure in a local area, on a route that will get you back to your starting point.

Using the John Muir Way and local paths, you’ll find everything from big loops to short strolls, taking in castles, beaches and often the option of public transport home for tired legs.

The day trips have all been graded according to difficulty and distances range from a family-friendly 4.5 mile walk up to a 27 mile cycle. You’ll find maps and a wealth of information on recommended places to visit on each route on the John Muir Way website at: www.johnmuirway.org/day-trips

‘Hidden Treasure’ to be Found

To celebrate the launch of the Day Trips and provide a little extra incentive to get out exploring, there will be ‘treasure’ of John Muir Way merchandise – including water bottles, caps, badges and route passports – stashed at a selection of attractions, cafes and other businesses along the route.

Goodies can be claimed by visitors doing any John Muir Way Day Trip or coast-to-coast route section.

To claim a prize, walkers and cyclists just need to take a photo of themselves next to a John Muir Way signpost or waymarker and show it at one of the participating treasure locations. Each location has prizes for the first ten treasure hunters, so there are plenty of chances to claim a souvenir of
your trip. 

For more information on how to take part, visit www.johnmuirway.org/treasure

Support for John Muir Way Day Trips

The development of these day trips was boosted by funding from several sources, including VisitScotland and the ‘Scotland Loves Local’ Fund administered by Scotland’s Towns Partnership.

Scotland’s Town’s Partnership Chief Officer Phil Prentice said: “These day trips along the John Muir Way sound brilliant – with something for everyone. I am delighted that we have been able to support them through the Scotland Loves Local Fund.

“They are a great example of ways in which people are being encouraged to embrace and enjoy our brilliant countryside, supporting all kinds of businesses and attractions as they do. It’s a boost for our health, local communities and the economy.”

Neil Christison, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “With so many people staying in the UK this year there has never been a better time to appreciate all the wonderful locations and attractions we have on our doorstep.

“Whether it’s discovering somewhere new or experiencing an old favourite in a completely new way, now is your time to enjoy the unique experiences that a holiday in Scotland offers.

“These new one day and half day routes on the John Muir Way provide a great option for making the most out of holidays at (or close to) home in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

There are John Muir Way prizes to be claimed at locations across the route.

The John Muir Way Day Trips launch has been funded by the Scottish Government ‘Scotland Loves Local’ Fund administered by Scotland’s Towns Partnership; by the Scottish Government and the European Community through the LEADER 2014–2020 Programme; and by the VisitScotland Sector and Destination Operational and Market Readiness Fund.

Make up for lost time with the perfect day out

With the next stages of lockdown easing and diaries filling back up from 26 April in Scotland and 17 May in England, now’s the time to start reuniting with loved ones and making memories beyond your back garden.

Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com) offers safe, small group tours across the UK, including day trips perfect for that first adventure out of lockdown.

From Edinburgh … Explore the enchanting world of Harry Potter’s Hogwarts and discover the historic and beautiful borders.

With its fascinating history, both in the real world and make-believe, Alnwick Castle – which doubled as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry – is the perfect place to let yourself, and your mind, run free.

On this day tour, passengers can look forward to taking in captivating coastlines, graceful rivers, gentle valleys and rolling hills of the Scottish Borders. Rabbie’s’ Alnwick Castle, the Northumberland Coast & the Borders one-day tour departs from Edinburgh and costs from £44 per person.

From Manchester… Discover the mountains, marvels, and myths of North Wales and Chester.

Cameras at the ready for Conwy, one of the most picture-perfect harbour towns in the world, and home to a castle fit for a king (King Edward, to be exact), perched by the sea.

Fuel up with an iconic fish and chips lunch before heading into Snowdonia National Park for scenic roads and sweeping views before a visit to the historic town of Chester. Rabbie’s’ Snowdonia, North Wales & Chester one-day tour departs from Manchester and costs from £42 per person.

From London … Mix in a slice of history with your Gin and Tonic. Escape the big smoke to amble along the lanes and paths of the ancient city of Winchester.

Take in the awe-inspiring cathedral, ancient mill and cute cafes before heading to Laverstoke Mill, home to one of the world’s most popular gins, Bombay Sapphire.

Learn all about the ethically minded production of the drink, while enjoying a tipple or two before heading back to the city. Rabbie’s’ Bombay Sapphire Gin & Winchester one-day tour departs from London and costs from £56 per person.

With social distancing measures in place, reduced group sizes and increased cleaning measures, Rabbie’s offers worry-free journeys for a sustainable staycation.