rabbie burns tours

Robert Burns

Robert - Rabbie Burns Tour by Tartan Tours Scotland

Tartan Tours Scotland

Robert rabbie burns tour.

Our Robert Burns Tour with Tartan Tours Scotland tour visits the Ayrshire village of Alloway where Robert Burns was born.

This like all our Tours this is a private Tour just for your party with an expert guide for your trip.

Our Robert Burns Tour is fantastic way to see and experience what Burns life was like. The cottage where he was born and raised. From his cottage its a short walk through Poets Path. To places that he saw like Brig O Doon and Auld Alloway Kirk which inspired and are contained in one of his most famous works Tam O Shanter. On the tour we also see the magnificent Burns Monument and explore the Burns museum.  

All set and within walking distance of each other in the beautiful village of Alloway. 

Additional extras can be added to this already great tour like a "Behind the Scenes tour" of the museum where you can see the original first draft of Auld lang Syne and many other objects that are too precious to be on public display.

This is a full day tour with Tartan Tours Scotland, which allows you to take your time have some lunch or a coffee while exploring the life of Robert Burns.

Our Robert Burns Tour  includes collection, and transportation to and from your pick up location with your personal tour guide for the day.

We suggest you allow 6 hours to ensure you make full advantage of this memorable day with Tartan Tours Scotland.  

Maximum tour size - 4 people   contact us now   for details and availability  

Robert Burns Tours By Tartan Tours Scotland

Available for booking now from Tartan Tours Scotland. Private Tour 1-4 people Private Tour Guide

Go back in time and discover

Scotlands and probably the worlds most famous Poet.

Collection/drop off available Glasgow and surrounding area. Contact us now for further details

Tartan tOURS sCOTLAND RABBIE burns tOUR

Robert Burns or better know as Rabbie Burns was born 25th January 1759 in Alloway. Regarded as the National Poet of Scotland, he is celebrated worldwide. Auld Land Syne is the second most sung song in the world after Happy Birthday. Rabbie Burns is the best known poet who has written in the Scots language. He also wrote in English, and many of these writings demonstrated his political, national and civil views very bluntly. Scots Wha Hae is a perfect example of that using both the Scots and English language, the lyrics depict a speech by Robert the Bruce before the battle of Bannockburn. 

He was the eldest of seven children and lived in a house built by his father, which is now the Burns museum which we visit on the Rabbie Burns Tour. At the age of seven the family sold the house and moved to Mount Oliphant Farm. The family lived in poverty and hardship and along with hard labour on the farm , it left Burns with a stoop and a weekend constitution.

In his early years Roberts father pushed his education, learning in Latin, French and Mathematics. By the age of 7 he could read and write. He said his first two books the life of Hannibal and the history of William Wallace gave him more pleasure than any other books he ever read. Burns also stated that the story of Wallace " poured a Scottish prejudice in my veins which will boil along there till the flood gates of life shut in eternal rest"

By the age of 15  Robert Burns had finished all his education and became head labourer on the Oliphant Farm. It was during the harvest of 1774 and possibly due his first love Nelly Kilpatrick that inspired his first attempt of poetry " O Once I lovd a Bonnie Lass"

This was the start of many love affairs, most notably with Elizabeth Paton, Jean Armor and Mary Campbell who was also known as Highland Mary. Many of his works relate to the ladies in his life.

With money worries he took up an offer of work in Jamaica as a book keeper - assistant overseer of slaves. In order to pay for his passage he sent his works to a Kilmarnock printer and were his works were published and became known as the Kilmarnock Volume. The first of many works. In the end he did not go to Jamaica.

Burns then spent time in Edinburgh and Dumfries, where he produced more poems and songs while also preserving old Scottish literature.  

His health deteriorated at an early age and he passed away on the 21st July 1796 in Dumfries . He was laid to rest on the 25th July initially in St Michael's Churchyard, a simple gravestone was erected by Jean Armour, his son Maxwell was also born the same day. His body was eventually moved to the Burns Mausoleum in the same cemetery in 1817. In 1834 the body of his widow Jean Armour was buried alongside his.

In 2019 it was estimated that from his 12 children, that there are over 900 living descendants of Rabbie Burns.

Robert Burns is still celebrated every year in Scotland and around the world on Burns night which is the 25th January,with a traditional Burns Supper. The very first Burns Supper was held by the Mother Club in Greenock on 29th January 1802. In 1803 it was discovered his birthday was actually 25th January. The Burns Supper has changed very little since 1802. It starts with the Selkirk Grace followed by the piping in and cutting of the Haggis. During the cutting stage Burns famous Address to a Haggis is read out with must gusto. After eating a series of toasts are proposed including a Toast to the Lassies and of course The Immortal Memory - which is an overview of Robert Burns life and work. The night closes with the singing of Auld Lang Syne.

To check availability of this Rabbie Burns Tour please   contact Tartan Tours Scotland  using our contact page and we will be only too happy to arrange a fantastic private tour just for you while you holiday in Scotland. 

Or why not look at some of our other tours that are offered by Tartan Tours Scotland,   The Falkirk Wheel ,   The Kelpies ,   Inveraray ,   Loch Lomond ,  Stirling Castle , Jacobite Tour ,   Bannockburn,   Whisky and Wallace,   Culloden,   Outlaw King  ,   Ocean Terminal Greenock, Glasgow,   Mary Queen of Scots Tours   and our new exclusive Robert the Bruce Tour .

The Falkirk Wheel a marvel of engineering, The Kelpies modern day 30ft sculptures, Inveraray with its stunning Castle, Loch Lomond with its Bonnie Bonnie Banks, Stirling Castle dating back to 1400s, Bannockburn with Robert The Bruce and Ocean Terminal Greenock, Glasgow for all cruise ship visitors. All fantastic day trips from Tartan Tours Scotland and remember we can design your very own tour with us, just   contact us   with your requirements and we will do the rest        

AYRSHIRE & RABBIE BURNS COUNTRY EXPLORER PRIVATE TOUR FROM GLASGOW

‘Good To Go’, providing Covid-19 safe tours

Reschedule at any time if your plans change

Fully transferable, secure deposit

• Private Tours from Glasgow /
• Ayrshire & Rabbie Burns Country Explorer Private Tour from Glasgow /

Take a day out of Glasgow and travel to the sleepy agricultural Ayrshire region. Explore Alloway, the Birthplace of Rabbie Burns, Scotland’s National poet and take in the open seascapes across the Firth of Clyde to Ailsa Craig. Visit Culzean Castle estate, with its grand clifftop castle rising above the woods, beaches, secret follies and parks before enjoying the coastal route back to Glasgow with great views of the Clyde coast. Each private tour is conducted in our premium Mercedes minivans , ensuring your comfort as we venture along the narrow roads of Scotland. Your knowledgable kilt-wearing private tour guide will tell you the stories and show you the sights on this tour. We offer flexibility and your time inside and outside the vehicle is up to you.

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Tour duration 1 day (9am – 5pm)

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We pick you up We’ll collect & return you from your Glasgow hotel, Greenock cruise port or Glasgow Airport

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Inclusions:

• All-inclusive private tour
• Door to door service
• Dedicated private tour guide and driver
• All travel costs
• Luxury Mercedes tour van

Exclusions:

• Lunch (we can recommend a place)
• Entrance into attractions & sites
• Gratuities (optional)

KEY SIGHTS ON THIS TOUR…

Alloway & Rabbie Burns Museum

Situated in the village of Alloway just outside Ayr is the place that Robert Burns was born in 1759 into a simple farming life. His parents aspired to more and insisted Rabbie was well educated. He lived a full life with a love for poetry, woman and Scotland and his works lead to international acclaim and him becoming the national bird of Scotland. He is still as culturally significant today as he was in his time and Scotland celebrates Burns Night annually on the 25th of January with a traditional meal of Haggis, Neeps and Tatties!

Learn about Burns’ life and times at this fantastic Robert Burns museum and visit the cottage that his father built and where he was born.

Culzean Castle

Acclaimed Georgian architect Robert Adam’s cliff-top masterpiece sits on the Clyde coast a short distance south of Ayr. Completed in 1792 the palatial house was built for David Kennedy, 10th Earl of Cassillis who wanted a country retreat and playground for him and his guests. Adam didn’t disappoint and today we can visit this jewel in the crown of southwest Scotland.

We’ll visit the palatial mansion house and also explore its extensive grounds complete with follies, country park and walled garden.

Turnberry Castle

Built in the 13th century, Turnberry Castle occupies a rocky spit of land and can be accessed only by crossing the adjacent Golf course. A once  impressive courtyard castle only the inner keep and sea gate remains and at low tide it is possible to walk out onto the rocks to see the walls.

Turnberry was a home of the Earls of Carrick. In 1271, Marjorie, Countess of Carrick married Robert de Bruce of Annandale. Their eldest son was to born here in 1274 and he went onto become King Robert The Bruce. After his coronation and exile in 1306, Bruce returned to Scotland a year later, landing at his former home Turnberry, by then occupied by the English. He didn’t succeed in taking it, but forced the garrison to abandon the castle. The castle does not feature again in official records, so we don’t know its subsequent history other than it had fallen into ruin by the 1700s.

Turnberry Lighthouse

Next door to the castle is Turnberry Lighthouse standing at 24 metres high. Commissioned by the Northern Lighthouse Board in 1877,  The initial plan to erect the lighthouse on the Bristo Rock it serves to warn ships about. The plan was deemed too dangerous so instead Turnberry Point was chosen. The foundations of the lighthouse stand in the moat of Turnberry Castle.

The lighthouse entered service on 30 August 1878 flashing once every 12 seconds. As part of the lighthouse modernisation programme in 1986 Turnberry Lighthouse was automated. Today it serves as a ‘half way house’ for golfers on Turnberry’s iconic King Robert The Bruce course.

The Lighthouse offers fantastic views across the Firth of Clyde as it enters the Irish Sea. On a clear day we can see Ailsa Craig, a volcanic plug that dominates the horizon.

Please note that access to Turnberry Castle & Lighthouse requires a 15 minute walk each way.

Coastal Drive

As we leave Turnberry we’ll travel north along the coastal road towards Gourock. We’ll see the islands of Arran, Milport and Bute as we travel up river. We’ll see the Cloch lighthouse that is the official end of the speed limit for Nuclear Submarines as they leave Faslane submarine base.

From Lyle Point in Gourock you get fantastic panoramic views across the Firth of Clyde towards Argyll. This region is closely connected to shipping and the River Clyde was critical in the building of ships for the British Empire and Allied efforts in both world wars. Today we can still see the legacy of that effort with ship yards and shipping including Greenock Cruise Terminal nearby.

In the distance is the wreck of ‘The Sugar Boat’ which serves as a reminder to the towns strong connection to Tate & Lyle Sugar refiners, founded by Abram Lyle to whom this lookout point is named.

We then drive the short distance back to Glasgow and return to your accommodation.

SUGGESTED TOUR ROUTE…

Each tour we operate is unique and designed to your requirements. Here is an example of this tour’s route

• Distance Instructions
• Distance 149 miles
• Time 4 h 37 min
• Speed 32 mph
• Min altitude 0 ft
• Descent 0 ft

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

These are some of the frequently asked questions about our Ayrshire & Rabbie Burns Country Explorer Private Tour from Glasgow, however if you have a specific question please contact us

Can I customise the tour?

Yes, we can customise any itinerary. We’ll email you shortly after booking to ask if you have any customisation requests and suggest additions you may wish to make.

Can the tour start at the airport / cruise port

Yes, we regularly pick up guests from the airport or cruise port. Read more about shore excursions from cruise ships

Do I need to bring anything with me?

We recommend bringing a jacket (even if the forecast is good!) and comfortable shoes. We’ll provide everything else including umbrellas, binoculars refreshments and a wee treat or two!

Do you provide car seats for children?

Yes, by law children under 135cm (4.4 foot) must travel in a booster seat. We can also provide baby seats. Please advise us if you need this.

How do I pay for the tour

When you book you pay a 20% deposit. The final payment is due on the date of departure and is taken from your card automatically. We don’t accept cash for your tour payment.

I need to change my tour date

No problem, as long as we have availability we can change the tour date. The deposit is transferable to your new date

What about ‘comfort stops’

There are plenty of toilet opportunities! Each of our tours is designed to have regular breaks and tour guide can accommodate most requests for bathroom stops.

What about lunch on tour

Scotland is full of amazing places to eat and we’ll recommend stops that champion the best in Scottish quality and make the most of your time.

What is the maximum number of guests

We have two versions of our minivan; either 6 or 7 passengers. Find out more about our premium minivans

Where do I meet the tour

We pick you up from your hotel or accommodation. In some instances parking in the city centre is restricted so there might be a short walk to your vehicle, but your guide will walk with you to the vehicle.

ALL OF OUR TOURS COME COMPLETE WITH…

Kilt wearing tour guide, we are passionate, professional and full of personality. let us share our knowledge of scotland, hotel / cruise berth pick up, we’ll collect & return you at the start and end of the tour, bottled scottish water, `chilled, premium still and sparkling scottish water is provided, premium mercedes minivan, our minivans offer luxury interiors and excellent legroom for up to 7 guests and their bags, onboard wifi, stay connected to friends and family on tour with unlimited super-fast wifi, recent customer testimonials.

Guide picked us up and dropped us off on time (very important since we were coming from a cruise ship) and was very friendly and knowledgeable. Drove us to all the key points of interest, and the van was very clean and comfortable. Communication from [...]

From the moment Sandy picked us up, we knew we were in for a wonderful day trip experience around Edinburgh. His historical knowledge of the city and surrounding area is top notch! He tailored our day to take in some hidden gems and provided us [...]

Annemarie D

We had so much fun with Andy! He was a pleasure to spend an afternoon with. We visited Rosslyn Chapel and some other places that were in keeping with our interests, like the oldest pub in Scotland (I know, many make the claim, but I'm [...]

Mary Carol S

Fantastic day with Michael! Great views of Loch Lamond. A nice hike and lunch there as well. Michael was really informative about Sterling Castle and all of Glasgow. I would highly recommend this tour and Michael.

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Burns' Night - Everything you need to know!

Every year on January 25th, the people of Scotland celebrate Burns' Night on the night of what would be Robert Burns' birthday. The poet is famous the world over for his contributions to the literary world, but why is he so celebrated here, and how do you throw the perfect Burns' Supper?

Every year in Scotland, on January 25th, we celebrate Burns’ Night. Almost considered a 2nd National Day after St Andrews’ Day in November, this is the night where we Scots celebrate the life and works of Robert Burns, a poet and lyricist, and arguably one of Scotland’s most notable figures. He is much loved here in Scotland, he even beat William Wallace in a TV competition in which the people here voted for the Greatest Scot ever.

Robert Burns, or Rabbie as he is more affectionately known here, was born on the 25th January 1759 in Alloway, just south of Ayr in Ayrshire. The house he was born was built by his father and still stands today, although it now functions as the Burns’ Cottage Museum.

He was a poet and a lyricist, who’s impact can still be seen on Scottish literature and culture to this day, as well as having a lasting influence worldwide in countries like Canada, the USA, and Russia. In fact, the first postage stamp ever made of Robert Burns didn’t come from Scotland or even the United Kingdom, but actually Russia – they put him on a postage stamp in 1956 to commemorate the 160th anniversary of his death. Some of his best known works include “Ae Fond Kiss”, a love song often heard at weddings, and “Tam O Shanter”, a tale of witches set in Ayr, not far from where he was born. Every Hogmanay, people all around the world sing Auld Lang Syne, a song written by Robert Burns himself and one known all over the English-speaking world – showing just how important a figure he remains to this day.

Burns died in 1796, and 5 years after his death, the first Burns’ Supper was held, when a group of his friends and fellow poet threw a dinner part to commemorate his life, on what they believed to be his birthday – January 29th. It wasn’t until records showed that his birthday was actual January 25th that the tradition of Burns Night began to fall on that date.

Whilst he originally hailed from Alloway, throughout his life, he stayed in many places throughout Scotland, meeting many people who influenced his works. From Tarbolton, Kilmarnock, Dumfries, to our capital city, Edinburgh , he often wrote about the places he went, the people he met , and where he would like to visit , planning to leave for Jamaica with one of the women who he was involved with. If you ever wanted to follow in his footsteps, you could do a Robert Burns tour with us by booking a Private Tour with our expert team – starting in Edinburgh, you could visit his portrait in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, before heading towards the west coast, visiting Alloway and his home, and even the Tam O'Shanter bridge. Click here to learn more about our Private Tours service. 

But what happens on Burns Night and how do we celebrate it?

The most common way to spend Burns’ Night is by attending a Burns’ Supper. These vary from town to town and everywhere will have their own traditions for celebrating them. Whether that’s attending a large, formal Burns’ Supper, shared by many throughout your neighbourhood or village, or just hosting your own in your dining room. Whilst they may differ from place to place, there’s a few things that are likely to happen at every Burns’ Supper up and down the country.

To start the evening

To begin with, if it’s a pretty formal event, the guests may be welcomed into the room with bagpipes playing. If you’re just throwing one in your living room, feel free to just play some traditional Scottish music over your phone as your guests arrive. There will then be a reading of the Selkirk Grace, many believe that Burns’ himself wrote this, but it was actually already known in the 17th Century. Once everyone has been welcomed and seated, it’s time for the food.

The Starter

For the first course, it will usually be a traditional Scottish soup like lentil, cock-a-leekie (basically just chicken and leek), or Cullen Skink (a creamy fish soup). There’s no set rules for this, so have whatever you fancy for a starter. A lot of people incorporate haggis into their starters too, for example, haggis bon bons, or just a smaller portion of haggis to start and something different for the main course.

The Main Course

The main course is the star of the show, and more often than not, it will be haggis. At a traditional Burns Supper, the guests will all stand and the haggis will be piped into the room, carried on a silver platter. There will then be someone who performs the “address to the haggis”, as this is done, the haggis will be cut open and then it’s ready to serve – usually with neeps and tatties (turnip and potato). If you’re taking part in Veganuary, trying to cut down on your meat, or just don’t like the sound of what’s actually in haggis (sheep heart, lung, and liver, with other things like suet and oatmeal, all encased within it's stomach and boiled) – vegetarian haggis is a great alternative and just as delicious!

The Dessert

After the mains, it will likely be something like a cranachan for dessert. Cranachan is a traditional Scottish dessert made up of cream, raspberries, oats, and whisky. There might be a wee cheeseboard as well, full of cheese from across Scotland. Of course, this will all have been washed down with a wee dram, or a nice glass of Irn-Bru!

Once everyone’s stomachs have settled, there will often be readings of Burns’ poetry, and more often than not, there’ll be a ceilidh, just like the one you might have on St Andrew’s Day. Think traditional Scottish music, a lot of dancing, and the chance of someone’s auntie flinging you across the dancefloor during a Strip the Willow. As you can tell, it doesn’t take a lot of convincing for us Scots to have a ceilidh.

And that’s how you have the perfect Burns’ night! While there’s usually a more set-in-stone plan of action if you’re going to a larger, more formal Burns’ Supper. If you’re just doing it yourself you have a bit more freedom to do it how you like, just make sure you raise a toast to Rabbie Burns, whether it’s whisky, Irn-Bru, or something else – that’s up to you!

If you’re celebrating it this year, we hope you have a great time!

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Rabbie Burns

© Scottish Classic Tours

Let Scottish Classic Tours chauffeur you around Scotland in the comfort of an award winning classic car or iconic VW campervan. We would love to share Scotland with you. Take home unforgettable memories.

Tour Highlights

• Pick up from location
• Alloway, Rabbie Burns Birthplace and Museum
• Maybole and Turnberry
• Culzean Castle (Summer months only)
• Dunure and Harbour
• Ayr and Troon
• Drop off at location

Who hasn’t sung Auld Lang Syne on Hogmanay (New Year) or heard of Brig O Doon. No trip to Scotland would be complete without seeing the birthplace and home of one of the world’s most famous Scots. From the United States to Russia Rabbie Burns also known as Robert is Scotland’s foremost national poet.

Burns wrote in Scots about the experiences of the common man, love, life and death. As such his works still hold universal appeal today over 200 years since his death. Journey to the town of Alloway and Burns Cottage and Museum. Walk across the Brig O Doon next to the beautiful Burns Memorial Gardens which celebrate this true genius. Burn’s image features on the front of Clydesdale Bank £10 notes.

Maybole was where Rabbie Burn’s mother, Agnes, lived. Turnberry is home to the world famous golf course of the same name.

  A Robert Adam masterpiece is the oval staircase within Culzean Castle which stands on the cliff tops overlooking the Firth Clyde. The castle was given to the newly formed National Trust for Scotland in 1945 with a proviso that General Eisenhower, later President Eisenhower be allowed to stay there at will. The President stayed at Culzean four times and famously said it was the only place where he could relax.

The well preserved 18th Century harbour at Dunure was featured in  Outlander  as was the castle, now a ruin.

Enjoy an ice cream on the beaches of Ayr or Troon where Glaswegians would traditionally holiday during “the Glasgow Fair”. See the Isle of Arran on the horizon. For Outlander fans, the beaches of Troon featured as the departure point for France for Jamie and Claire.

This is a full day tour with lunch at a variety of locations in Alloway or Ayr. Please note that Culzean Castle is closed from November to March.  Contact us  for more information.

Scottish Classic Tours is managed by husband and wife, Duncan and Linda Cullen, both of whom share a love of Scotland, classic cars and history. Tours can be either half or full day dependent upon time spent at each location and where your pick up and drop off points are. Call or email to discuss your tour ideas on 07595 187123 or [email protected].

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Departure days.

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January — December

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Do you like castles, churches or cathedrals? Or maybe wildlife? Is golf your thing? Enjoy a fine malt? Perhaps you have fond memories of a campervan and fancy doing the North Coast 500, Scotland's Route 66, in one? Let Scottish Classic Tours chauffeur you around in the comfort of an award winning classic car or fully restored VW campervan. We are a small family run business and ideally located for pick up at Glasgow or Edinburgh. If a different pick up location is preferred, please contact us as this can be arranged.

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ROBERT BURNS DAY TOUR

Meet & greet service.

We will pick you up in our 8 passenger seat luxury executive mpv and transport you throughout the duration of your tour or excursion.

We Source Hotels

We will source for you, recommended local hotels & guesthouses in the local tour area during your stay.

Local Tour Guide

You get a professional tour guide who wears the traditional Highland dress and plays the bagpipes at request.

"MEET SCOTLAND'S FAMOUS BARD"

Robert burns birthplace museum.

Stop 1 - Eyemouth

Burns and Ainslie arrived here in the May of 1787 to much fanfare. He and Ainslie were made Royal Arch Masons of St Ebbs Lodge. But while Ainslie had to fork out the one guinea admission fee, Burns’s celebrity status insured no such fee was charged of him. Indeed such was his fame even then, that the cutlery and utensils he used at the ‘repast’ have been kept to this day by the Eyemouth Lodge.

Stop 2 - Coldingham Priory

Burns stopped off to visit Coldingham Priory, with its north and east walls of the choir having withstood a siege in the time of Oliver Cromwell. These remaining walls were subsequently incorporated into the present day church. The Luckenbooth is a community owned venture situated near the entrance to the Priory, which houses an ‘interpretation centre’ that has interactive displays to further explain the working of the Priory and history of the village.

Stop 3 - Pease Bridge

While this stop is early in our tour, Burns had done most of his Borders tour with Robert Ainslie by the time the following incident occurred. Indeed Ainslie had returned to his Edinburgh law practice after a fortnight’s holiday travelling with Burns.

In Peasebridge, Burns had been invited to dine with one George Sherriff – a crashing bore, talkative and conceited – who had a sister, Nancy. George was called away during the evening, leaving Burns and Nancy together alone. Nancy had set herself the task of ‘claiming Burns’ for herself. Her brother returned home in time that evening but Nancy merely renewed her efforts the next morning, appearing as Burns was saddling his horse, dressed in her finery and ready to accompany him along the road to Dunbar. Burns recounted his horror to Ainslie in a letter:

“In the words of the Highlandman when he saw the Devil on Shanter (hill in the shape of five swine) – ‘My hair stood and my pintle stood and I swat and trembled’.  Nothing could prevail with her, no distant insinuation, no broad hint would make her give over her purpose (to make a parade of me as a sweetheart of hers among her relations); at last, vexed, disgusted and enraged, I pretended a fire-haste and rode so hard she was almost shaken to pieces on old Jolly, and, to my great joy, she found it convenient to stop at an uncle’s house by the way. I refused to call with her, and so we quarreled and parted.”

Stop 4 - Duns

Duns was the location of Berrywell, family home of Robert Ainslie’s family, used as a base by Burns and Ainslie for their tour. On arrival at Duns, Burns was impressed by the character of Ainslie’s parents and charmed by his sister, Rachel.

Accompanying the family to church on the Sunday Burns sat next to Rachel. During the service she became quite upset at the sermon delivered by the minister on sinners and she could not find the referred text in her Bible. Burns took it from her and on the flyleaf wrote the following:

“Fair maid, you needna take the hint Nor idle texts pursue; ‘Twas guilty sinners that he meant Not angels such as you!”

Word of Burns’s whereabouts in the Borders spread and once on returning to Berrywell, Burns found a selection of original poetry sent to him by Symon Gray, a Londoner, who had retired to Duns. Gray wanted to know Burns’s honest opinion of his verses. Burns duly replied to the first package “ Symon Gray, you’re dull today! “.  Gray was undaunted however and sent a second packet. Burns replied: “ Dullness, wit redoubted sway, has seized the wits of Symon Gray. “

Stop 5 - Coldstream

The Coldstream Bridge over the River Tweed delineates Scotland from England today as it did in Burns’ time.

And it was over this bridge that Burns first set foot on English soil. It did not warrant much mention in his diary of the day comprising of just four words ‘went over into England’. Far better a story is the one Ainslie told James Hogg more than fifty years later in which Burns had knelt down and invoked a blessing on Scotland, quoting his own work!

Duns Castle

Duns Castle is an award-winning, exclusive-use venue, available all year round for weddings, family gatherings, corporate meetings, film shoots and events.

Paxton House

Paxton House is a Georgian mansion overlooking the River Tweed set in 80 acres of grounds on the border of England and Scotland 4 miles from Berwick upon Tweed.

Abbeys and ardour

From fine Abbey ruins to damsels who caught his eye, Burns was busy in the thriving market towns of Kelso and Jedburgh. He remarked upon bridges, visited castle ruins to see where James II accidently died and flirted outrageously with a young lady, much to the dismay of her guardians.

Stop 1 - Kelso

As you gaze upon the fine five-arch bridge finished by Rennie in 1803, you would be forgiven for thinking it looks familiar. It is the first bridge with an elliptic arch and marked a new era in bridge building, serving as the model for Waterloo Bridge in London. But it is the predecessor of Rennie’s triumph that was gazed upon by Robert Burns on his Borders tour.

Following an evening out, he wrote on 9 May 1787 ‘ Breakfast at Kelso; charming situation; fine bridge over the Tweed; enchanting views and prospects on both sides of the river, particularly the Scotch side .’ Indeed it is reported Burns was so taken with the scene he uncovered his head and prayed to God.  Alas that bridge would be carried away in a storm ten years later, making way for the one you see today.

Stop 2 - Roxburghe & Floors Castle

In Roxburgh, Burns visits the ruins of the castle and notes he has seen the bush said to mark the spot where James II of Scotland was accidently killed. From the remains of Roxburgh Castle you have an excellent view of Floors Castle.  Here you can occupy half a day exploring the stunning interiors and learning its fascinating history. And within that history is Burns himself. An unpublished letter and an unpublished draft copy of ‘ On Seeing a Wounded Hare ‘ were discovered in the archives at Floors in 2008 and acknowledged as authentic four years later.

Stop 3 - Jedburgh

In Jedburgh, Burns was to receive the Freedom of the Burgh from the magistrates. But his daily journal recording his thoughts was far more occupied with his annoyance at the wife and sister-in-law of a fellow writer, Mr Fair, whom he had sought out to visit. “ Mrs Fair is a crazy, talkative slattern and her sister (Miss Lookup) an old maid “. Being a young man with a capacity for seeing an attractive girl, Burns’ was rather more taken with a Miss Rutherford, – “ a beautiful girl, but too far gone woman to expose so much of a fine, swelling bosom.… ” who was in the company of the Fair family. The elder women repeatedly manage to interrupt Burns’ flirtations with the younger woman,  much to his annoyance. He perseveres and manages to hold on to Miss Rutherford’s arm; “ my heart thawed into melting pleasure after being so long frozen up in the Greenland Bay of Indifference amid the noise and nonsense of Edinburgh… The Poet is a point and a half of being damnably in love .”

Indeed it would seem Miss Rutherford was equally flattered by his attentions as: “ after some little chit-chat of the tender kind, I presented her with a proof-print of my Nob which she accepted with something more tender than gratitude. She told me many little stories with prolonging pleasure – God bless her .”  However Miss Rutherford’s brush with celebrity would only bring her 15 minutes of fame, and three weeks later she was married to an Adam Armstrong.

Stop 4 - Dryburgh Abbey

Burns gave Dryburgh Abbey a ringing endorsement, commenting in his journal it was “ a fine, old ruined Abbey by the way. . . ”

The abbey is a remarkably complete medieval ruin by the River Tweed, clearly demonstrating the monastic life it once housed. You can still see plaster and paintwork inside the chapter house dating from when it was built. On a fine day, great for a picnic or a tour before lunch at St Boswell’s.

Mary Queen of Scots' Visitor Centre

Mary Queen of Scots’ Visitor Centre is set in the centre of historic Jedburgh and this 16th century tower house tells the story of Scotland’s tragic queen.

Smailholm Tower

Smailholm’s 20m-tall tower house, its walls 2.5m deep, dominates a rocky craig.

Border towns and spurned Burns

Today these Border towns brim with cafés and shops, galleries and places of interest to entice the modern visitor. Burns was not so lucky. Bad weather plagued his visit to Melrose and he was slighted in Selkirk by a man who did not recognise him engulfed in his sodden road-weary clothes. He passed through Galashiels and stayed at Innerleithen, visiting the famous Traquair House, whose Earl was known to be sympathetic to the Jacobite cause.

Stop 1 - Melrose Abbey

Today Melrose in a visitor’s dream with history and culture galore. However as is so often the case, one’s perception of a place can be made, or indeed dampened by the weather. So it was for Burns and Melrose. The weather had taken a turn and was wet and cold for May and his remarks reflected this: “ the whole country hereabout, both on Tweed and Ettrick remarkably Melrose Abbey stony ”

Stop 2 - Galashiels

This popular market town is world renowned for its textile industry which began its flourish in the 19th century. Robert Burns wrote the poems ‘ Sae Fair Her Hair’ and ‘ Braw Lads’ which is sung at the annual Braw Lads Gathering, but the town was but a mere waypoint on the travels of Ainslie and Burns. However today you could stop and see his Phiz, embroidered in his very own panel at the Great Tapestry of Scotland.

Stop 3 - Selkirk

Selkirk is one of the oldest Royal Burghs in Scotland and it is also the setting for one of the more amusing anecdotes of Burns’ Border tour. The poor weather from Melrose clearly followed Burns and Ainslie and they arrived at Veitch’s Forest Inn in Selkirk with rain running off them. The inn was crowded and Ainslie inquired if they could join a table with two spaces available. However the host of the table, Dr Clarkson was decidedly unimpressed at the two muddied, drenched travellers before him. He remarked that “ one sounded nearly like a gentleman’ but the other was ‘a drover-looking chap'”.

It was the next day before he learned that his drover was Burns himself. Mortified, as a genuine admirer of Burns’s work, Dr Clarkson hurried off to make amends at the inn where the pair had eventually found lodgings. But Burns was “ in bed, drying out, feeling jaded to death” . While Burns did not have modern day paparazzi to contend with, it has been suggested that he was perhaps realising his own fears of being on constant display. He refused to see Dr Clarkson, who spent the rest of his life regretting his high-handed attitude and the failure to dine with one of Scotland’s most famous men. Today a plaque on West Port lays claim to the site of the old Veitch inn and of Clarkson’s humiliation, but it is also said the inn could have lain where the newly refurbished Hammermen’s Hall now sits.

Stop 4 - Innerleithen

Innerleithen was no more than a few thatched cottages in Burns’s time, but it is now a small town, thriving on the visits from keen mountain bikers keen to test their abilities at the nearby Glentress Forest. Burns stayed at the single inn, called the Piccadilly during his time here. It is curious that Burns, with his proven and often stated Jacobite sympathies, was not accommodated at the nearby Traquair House, but perhaps it was merely a case of not having the right connections to gain entry. Burns did visit Traquair to see the Bear Gates, padlocked shut in support of Bonnie Prince Charlie. The Bonnie Prince had visited Charles, fifth Earl of Traquair during his March to London in 1745. On his departure, the Jacobite supporting Earl of Traquair closed and locked the Bear Gates at the entrance, swearing they would not be reopened until a Stuart Monarch sat on the Throne. As you will see, they remain locked today.

The Great Tapestry of Scotland

The Great Tapestry of Scotland gallery & visitor centre is where the people's story of Scotland begins. It is home to exhibits, workshops, a shop & a cafe.

Traquair House

Traquair is Scotland's Oldest Continually Inhabited House dating back over 900 years and still lived in as a family home today.

Farmer and exciseman

On more than one occasion Burns passed through Moffat, including on his triumphant return to see Jean Armour following his Borders tour in 1787. Here we enter Dumfries and Galloway, which was Burns’s home county through the later years of his life. He would write some of his most famous works here and this was his base as he travelled through the county in his role as Exciseman – a job he held towards the end of his life.

See where he became the Ploughman Poet and attempted a cure for what ailed him just three days before he died.

Stop 1 - Moffat

We know Burns passed through Moffat, on more than one occasion and he stayed at the Black Bull Inn, where today his favourite area is called The Burns Room or Poets Corner. As was his want, Burns etched a window pane with a verse inspired by a lady love who was passing by the window as he revelled inside with his companions.

Unfortunately the pane of glass is no longer to be seen at the Black Bull, having been presented many years ago to visiting Russian dignitaries. However the words of the poet are not lost, displayed on the exterior wall for all to see.

Stop 2 - Lochmaben

Burns referred to Lochmaben in ‘ The Five Carlins’ where Robert the Bruce’s daughter, Marjorie Bruce once lived in its castle. “ Marjorie of the many Lochs, A Carlin auld and teugh”.

‘The Five Carlins’ refer to the five burghs of Dumfriesshire, the others being Dumfries itself, Kirkcudbright, Annan and Sanquhar. Burns claimed he had been given the freedom of Lochmaben after leaving Dalswinton but there is no trace of this in the official records.

Stop 3 - Brow Well

Brow Well was renowned for the healing properties of its water throughout Dumfriesshire. Burns duly came to visit in 1796 as his health began to deteriorate and he stayed at the long since demolished Brow Inn. Burns’ illness was diagnosed as ‘flying gout’ but was in fact rheumatic fever, and three days after his visit to Brow Well, he died at home.

Stop 4 - Ellisland

Robert Burns and his family lived at Ellisland Farm, just a few miles north of Dumfries, for three years and it was here he wrote ‘ Auld Lang Syne ’. Today’s visitors can see the farmhouse he built and gain insight into what living in the late 1700s would have been like for his family. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the countryside, Burns was inspired while walking along a path on the farm and wrote ‘ Tam o Shanter’ in just one day.

Annandale Distillery

Annandale Distillery. Established 1836 | Reborn 2014

The Devil's Porridge Museum

The Devil’s Porridge Museum is a 5 star rated attraction which regularly tops the list of things to do in Dumfries and Galloway on Trip Advisor.

A poet in Dumfries

Following his time as a farmer, Burns moved his family into Dumfries. You can see where he lived, entertained, drank and then died at the early age of 37.  Originally buried in a modest grave, Burns’ remains were moved to what was deemed a more fitting location in 1815 and you can now visit where he now lies with his widow Jean Armour and five of their family.

Stop 1 - Dumfries

In Dumfries there is an informative town trail map In the Footsteps of Burns with downloadable information giving you insights into the poet’s life in Dumfries. It starts from the Tourist Information point.

Stop 2 - Robert Burns Statue & Robert Burns Centre

The Robert Burns Statue in Burns Statue Square was set up by public subscription in 1882, and carved by ‘Carrara craftsmen’ in Italy. See if you can spot Luath, Burns’ Scots collie dog… we wonder whether the craftsmen had ever seen one before!

Next up you’ll get a great overview of Rabbie Burns’ life in and around Dumfries at the Robert Burns Centre which offers free admission and is an ideal place to explore Burns’ last years. You can see an excellent 3D mock up of what Dumfries would have looked like in his time. There’s a variety of artefacts displayed and you can listen to contemporary recordings of his works in an audio booth. Children will enjoy learning about Scotland’s bard with colouring sheets, a gallery trail and puzzles.

Stop 3 - The Globe Inn

For a bon viveur like Burns a wee dram was essential, and in the centre of Dumfries at the Globe Inn, you can see where Rabbie Burns ate and drank. Affectionately referred to by Burns as his Howff, the Globe Inn still offers food and drink and also private tours into the spaces used by Burns. You can even sit in the great man’s chair – but be sure to have one of his poems lined up to recite or you’ll be obliged to buy the pub a full round of drinks.

But like so many celebrities constantly called upon and expected to be ‘famous’ the continuous drinking took its toll on Burns. “ There are gentlemen here in Dumfries, five bottle a night men, who would not give me their company if I did not drink with them – so I give to each, a slice of my constitution…. “

Stop 4 - Theatre Royal

Burns was heavily involved in the construction of the Theatre Royal while he lived in Dumfries and continued to patronise the theatre during his years in the town. The Bard wrote several pieces for the stage, including ‘ A Scots Prologue ’ which was performed as a fundraiser at the new theatre and ‘ The Rights of Women ’ for Louise Fontanelle when she performed in the newly opened theatre in 1792.

Stop 5 - Robert Burns House & Mausoleum

Robert Burns House is the simple sandstone home Burns occupied with his family from 1791. Just three years later he died here. He is now buried in St Michael’s Kirkyard next door in the Robert Burns Mausoleum. A statue of his wife, Jean Armour, was erected by the Burns Howff Club opposite St Michael’s Kirk, in 2004.

Peter Pan Moat Brae

Moat Brae, Birthplace of Peter Pan and National Centre for Children's Literature and Storytelling

Old Bridge House Museum

Built in 1660 into the sandstone of the fifteenth century Devorgilla Bridge, Dumfries’ oldest house is now a museum of everyday life in the town.

Burns around Wigtownshire

Burns worked as an Exciseman to support his family and in this capacity he journeyed west through the Machars and Rhins peninsulas and many stops were noted in his journals.  On this last day of the tour, we touch on some highlights with notable stories.

Though Burns spent his later life in Dumfries and Galloway, he is strongly linked with Ayrshire. You can continue your exploration of Burns by following the SWC300 route along the coastline and head to Alloway to explore the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, including Burns Cottage where he was born and spent the first seven years of his life.

Stop 1 - Castle Douglas

Burns spent a lonely night in Castle Douglas having been left by Syme, his travelling companion.  Left to his own devices he spent the evening writing a wistful letter to Agnes Maclehose (known as Nancy to her friends and Clarinda to followers of Burns).  “ Clarinda? What a host of Memory’s tenderest offspring crowd on my fancy at that sound!”

The Carlingwark Inn no longer stands but would have once been found at the top of the hill to the South of the town.

Stop 2 - Kirkcudbright

The tidal River Dee at Kirkcudbright provides one of the best natural harbours on the Galloway coast. In Burns time the Earls of Selkirk were a major influence in Kirkcudbright’s affairs. Burns arrived with his travelling companion Syme, who described Burns as being in ‘ a most epigrammatic mood ‘ on the journey to St Mary’s Isle where they were to be the guests of the current Earl of Selkirk.

Burns was suffering from headache and stomachache and his boots had gone missing. Burns’s mood wasn’t much better when they eventually reached Selkirk’s seat that night, but when he was called upon to say words prior to the meal he said:

“Some hae meat and canna eat And some wad eat that want it But we hae meat and we can eat And sae the Lord be thankit.”

These famous lines are now termed the Selkirk Grace but neither Syme nor Burns mention it in their daily journals and it is likely Burns delivered a grace extempore on that occasion as it was his custom to do so when a guest. And he might also have done so next evening at the Old Heid Inn, now called the Selkirk Arms, where a plaque on the wall boasts the fact that he did. Burns was definitely a lodger at the inn so it is quite possible it was delivered here at some point.

Stop 3 - Gatehouse of Fleet

Gatehouse, once the tollbooth for Stage coaches, has entrepreneur James Murray to thank for its relative growth in the late 18th century. In 1763 he built his summer home, Cally House, here leading to the town becoming a thriving industrial centre with cotton mills, shipbuilding, a brewery and its own port.

Robert Burns paid two well documented visits to Gatehouse of Fleet. During the first in 1793 he and his travelling companion Syme got drunk during an evening at The Murray Arms where Burns penned the first draft of ‘ Scots Wha Hae ’, otherwise known as Bruce’s Address to his Army at Bannockburn.

During his second visit he would pen the Heron Ballads , including ‘ John Bushby’s Lamentation’ – John Bushby was the Sheriff’s clerk in Dumfries.

Stop 4 - Wigtown

As you journey towards Wigtown you’ll travel past the turning to the former Kirroughtree Hotel. Here Burns met Jean Lorimer and her family to “drink tea”.  Although there is nothing to mark their meeting, Jean Lorimer was a friend of the poet and his wife and was the inspiration for over 20 songs.  Jean, referred to as the “ Lassie we’ the lint-white locks ” or “Chloris”, was a neighbour and frequent visitor to Jean Amour and Burns when they lived at Ellisland Farm.

Today Wigtown is known for being Scotland’s National Book Town. In the late 1700s, it was an important, busy, market town. In his time as Exciseman Burns would surely have passed through Wigtown on more than one occasion and quite possibly stayed the night. With no journal notes it is pure speculation where this might have been, but the buildings surrounding the current Galloway Inn had been constructed as a private house in the mid-1700s and became a public house known as the King’s Arms at a later date. It is known the property was considerably larger than the present day inn and it is quite likely the adjacent Southfield House was part of the original inn.

Today’s Wigtown would surely have fascinated Burns, with its status as Scotland’s National Book Town and more than a dozen bookshops plying their trade and his works.

Broughton House and Garden

House and Garden - The home of ‘Glasgow Boy’ Hornel sits in a Japanese-inspired garden and hosts an impressive collection of art.

Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere

Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere is internationally recognised as a world class environment for people and nature.

Where to Stay

The Cairndale Hotel and Leisure Club

Privately owned Spa hotel in Dumfries town centre

Dryburgh Abbey Hotel

A magnificent Scottish Country House Hotel and Bistro by the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders.

The Selkirk Arms Hotel

Quality 4* Hotel & Restaurant in the heart of Kirkcudbright

Coldstream Holiday Park

A new holiday destination within the historic Borders town of Coldstream, Private Holiday Homes, Self Catering Breaks, Touring, Camping & Glamping.

Robert Burns’ Dumfries: A self-guided walking tour

Posted on Last updated: May 5, 2022

Discover Robert Burns’ Dumfries by following the footsteps of Scotland’s national poet in the town he lived and died in, on this self-guided walking tour of Dumfries’ Robbie Burns sights.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

From Auld Lang Syne on New Years’ Eve to ‘my love is like a red, red rose’ and ‘the best laid schemes o’ mice and men’, even if you don’t think you know the works of Scottish poet Robbie Burns, you probably do. He’s been named Scotland’s National Poet and voted one of the greatest ever Scots. And on 25th January each year, Scots, Scotland -lovers and anyone with a fondness for whisky, haggis, neeps and tatties celebrate his birthday.

Robert Burns was born in Ayrshire in 1759 but spent the end of his life living in the town of Dumfries. So while I studying there I set out to discover the story of Robert Burns in Dumfries, with a self-guided walk of the town’s Burns history for you to follow.

Robert Burns in Dumfries

Burns was born in Alloway, Ayrshire, in 1759 and started life as a farm labourer – a ‘ploughman poet’ writing in his spare time. After a stint in Edinburgh he moved to Ellisland Farm (now a museum) in Dumfries and Galloway in 1788 before working as an excise officer in Dumfries. And the town is where he spent the last eight years of his life.

He was only 37 when he died but produced a huge range of poems and songs, many written in the Scots dialect, which is a bit of a challenge to get your head (and tongue) around. Robbie Burns left his mark on both Scottish culture and on Dumfries. And the first Burns Supper was held by a group of his friends to mark the fifth anniversary of his death.

Since then Burns Night has expanded into a global celebration of his life and work, as well as everything Scottish. Dumfries puts on an annual festival for the occasion – the Big Burns Supper is a celebration of Scottish music, culture and heritage spread over 10 days. But you can also explore Robert Burns’ Dumfries at any time of year.

A Robert Burns walking tour of Dumfries

This Dumfries walking tour of the town’s Robert Burns history is fairly short at only around 1.5 miles, but I would allow at least a couple of hours to complete it to give you time to look around the museums on the way (and to call into the pub for a drink!).

Robert Burns Statue

Start your tour of Robert Burns Dumfries at Burns’ Statue, found opposite the Burgh Church of Dumfries (aka Greyfriars Kirk). The statue was commissioned in 1877 by the town to celebrate its most illustrious resident. It was carved by Italian craftsmen to a design by sculptor Amelia Robertson Hill and uses marble from Carrara in Northen Italy.

The statue was unveiled in 1882, though it wasn’t in this exact spot originally – changes to the road layout over the years mean that it has been shifted several times since.

Dumfries Robert Burns Centre

Walk down Friars Vennel towards the River Nith and cross the river on the Devorgilla Bridge (take this one rather than the newer Buccleuch Street Bridge shown on the map, which wouldn’t accept the Devorgilla Bridge). The bridge was built in the 15th century and is one of the oldest in Scotland, so Burns would’ve used it while he lived in Dumfries.

Turn left at the end of the bridge past the Old Bridge House Museum, formerly an inn where Burns liked to drink. Along the banks of the river you’ll find the Robert Burns Centre in a converted 18th century watermill. The Centre tells the story of Burns’ time in Dumfries – though not a lot about his life before so you might want to swot up a bit first.

Entry is free with objects and artifacts on display. There’s also a scale model of the town in the 1790s to show you what life was like in Dumfries in Burns’ day. And the building is home to Scotland’s smallest film theatre, which holds regular screenings.

The Globe Inn

Carry on along the waterfront then cross the river on the iron suspension bridge. Turn left at the end of the bridge and right into Shakespeare Street, where a narrow passageway (known as a wynd) lined with murals depicting Burns’ poems leads you to the Globe Inn (not to be confused with another Globe Inn located across the river).

The Globe was established in 1610, making it one of the oldest pubs in Scotland, and it feels like it with its dark timber-panelled walls. It was also one of Burns’ favourite watering holes – “the Globe Tavern here which for many years has been my Howff” (howff being an old Scots word which means favourite meeting spot or haunt).

The inn has Burns memorabilia like handwritten letters and plaster busts on show, and lines of his poems are etched into the window panes of the bedroom he used to stay in upstairs. They offer prebooked tours of the rooms he used in the inn (available Wednesday to Saturday at 4pm and Friday and Saturday at 11am, £5 per person).

The tour includes Burns’ bedchamber and the ‘snug’ dining room where he’d entertain his friends. You can even sit in Burns’ favourite chair by the fire – though anyone who does has to recite one of his verses or pay a forfeit of buying a round for the whole pub.

Robert Burns House

Backtrack along Shakespeare Street and turn left down Burns Street where you’ll find the Robert Burns House and a memorial garden outside. Burns and his family moved into this 18th-century sandstone house in May 1793, when the street was known as Mill Street.

With its two bedrooms, parlour and study, this house was a step up from the two-room flat the family had been living in in Dumfries before then. And it’s here that Robert Burns spent the last three years of his life living and working.

You can see the study he wrote in and the bedroom where he died at the age of 37 on 21 July 1796. There’s some debate over what killed him, but it was though to be endocarditis – inflammation of the heart – caused by rheumatism when he was young.

The house is furnished with beds, chairs and tables from the period – though not the bed Burns died in because that was made into slightly macabre keepsakes for his fans. There’s a snuffbox carved out of wood from the bed on display as well as paintings, family belongings like his wife’s Bible, Burns’ personal seal and original letters and manuscripts.

Jean Armour statue

Carry on along Burns Street and you’ll see a statue on your left of Jean Armour, Robert Burns’ wife. If you saw the rather stern paintings of her in the Burns’ House you might spot that she looks a lot more glam here – it was designed so she looked like she would’ve done when Burns was alive whereas all the paintings of her are from much later.

She met Burns when she was 19 and they ended up having nine children together, the last one born on the day of his funeral. It was a turbulent relationship though – her parents disapproved, six of their children died, Burns fathered at least four more illegitimate children (including one with the barmaid at the Globe!) and had a habit of disappearing.

But she stayed with him until he died, and spent the rest of her life in their house in Dumfries until she died in 1834 at the age of 69, 38 years after Burns’ death.

Burns Mausoleum

Cross the road to St Michael’s and South Parish Church – Robert Burns’ final resting place. If you walk around the right side of the church, you’ll find his mausoleum at the back of the graveyard. You can’t miss its bright white dome in among the more sombre red sandstone graves. But this lavish neoclassical structure wasn’t Burns’ original resting place.

When Burns died in 1796 he was buried in a simple grave with a stone slab on the other side of the churchyard. But his growing number of fans decided it didn’t befit a Scottish icon. And after poet William Wordsworth and his wife came to pay their respects and couldn’t find Burns’ grave, a fundraiser was held to raise money for a better memorial.

Donors from around the world, including famous fans like the Prince Regent, pledged money for a local stonemason to built the memorial. And in 1817 Burns’ remains were moved there along with those of two of his sons, and his wife’s body was added later.

The mausoleum was originally made of red sandstone but was later painted white with a turquoise dome to protect it from pollution. Inside there’s a sculpture of Burns with a plough and his muse Coila hovering over him. There’s a sign to show where the original grave was as well as plaques on the graves of Burns’ friends and contemporaries.

And if you go inside the church you can see the Burns family pew and stained-glass windows which feature Robert Burns and Jean Armour.

Visiting Dumfries

Where to stay in dumfries.

The Holiday Inn Dumfries * is a bit out of town, but its beautiful setting in 85 acres of parkland makes up for the 30-minute walk (or 15-minute bus ride). It’s part of the Crichton estate, with former Victorian hospital buildings now home to universities and businesses surrounded by gardens. The hotel has a bar and restaurant, and is a couple of minutes’ walk to Neuros leisure centre, which has a swimming pool, steam room and café.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Dumfries?*

Where to eat and drink in Dumfries

Drink a toast to Burns with a dram or two in The Globe – the pub’s owners also run the nearby Annadale Distillery so it would be rude not to. Dumfries is good for traditional pub grub. Try the Cavens Arms for real ales – it’s won multiple CAMRA awards – and big portions. Or if you’re staying at the Crichton, the Swan in Kingholm Quay is just a short walk away, and from there it’s a lovely 30-minute walk along the river to Dock Park.

Save for later

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CHRISTINE WATERSON

Saturday 26th of September 2020

Hi Lucy, stumbled on your blog while looking for old photos of St Michael's Street and St Michael's church Dumfries. Had no idea Robert Burns was buried there. Thank you so much for your travel information. I am researching my family history, they started off at St Michaels Street, Dumfries and a son moved to St Bees Whitehaven married his landlords daughter, then they moved to Wallsend on Tyne and had my grandmother. I have always loved Scotland, now I know why - its in my blood! Christine W

Lucy Dodsworth

Monday 28th of September 2020

Hi Christine, so glad the post was useful – and can definitely see why you love Scotland!

Saturday 22nd of February 2020

Your article has prompted me to revisit all these Burns related venues when I visit Dumfries for a few days next month along with my wife. We've done it before but many years ago and it'll be nice to refresh the memories. I look forward to a lunchtime visit to The Globe and we'll fit in Annandale Distillery too. Your article was successful in rekindling my interest in Burns in Dumfries. Thank you.

Tuesday 25th of February 2020

Thanks so much, glad to bring back some good memories and hope you enjoy the trip!

David Cameron

Wednesday 4th of September 2019

Thanks for giving us an amazing article, Lucy! Your words added fabulous spirit to the historical scenes. Such lovely!

Darlene Foster

Saturday 22nd of June 2019

This is a place I would love to visit. Thanks for the great tour!

Monday 24th of June 2019

Thanks Darlene, I didn't know much about Dumfries until I went up there to study but it's got some really interesting history.

Dylan Jones

Friday 31st of May 2019

A really interesting article. I had no idea there was so much to see in Dumfries related to Robert Burns. It also looks like a beautiful place to visit, and I'd be sure pop into The Globe Inn for a drink or two.

Monday 3rd of June 2019

The Globe was great (though probably a good thing I didn't discover it earlier as it might not have helped the studying!).

• GETTING HERE
• DAVID & TERESA
• THE HOSPITALITY TEAM
• DEGUSTATION

MRS HYSLOP’S KITCHEN

• GRAND DINING
• BURNS’ DINING ROOM
• TECHNICAL NOTES
• ABOUT ROBERT BURNS
• ACCESSIBILITY GUIDE
• VISIT SCOTLAND
• PLAN YOUR VISIT

56 High St, Dumfries DG1 2JA +44 (0) 1387 323 010 [email protected]

Burns Tours

Delve into the globe’s rich and colourful past and find out why this historic inn was robert burns’ favourite howff..

This is The Poet’s chair! Sit in it and you’re obliged to recite or sing Burns, otherwise it’s ‘drinks all round’ on you!

Burns had a passionate affair with Anna Park, niece of Mrs Hyslop. This is where, in Burns’ own words, “… the gowden locks of Anna…, lay on this breast o’ mine”.

In this kitchen, Mrs Hyslop, landlady of The Globe, prepared traditional fayre for Burns and his companions.

BOOK A TOUR OF THE GLOBE’S BURNS ROOM

CLICK HERE TO BOOK THE TOUR

BURNS’ DINING ROOM

See the very spot where Burns ate, drank and entertained his companions with verse and song. In Burns’ time this was known as his Snug. Sit in his chair if you dare, but if you do you are obliged to recite his poetry or buy the entire inn a drink.

BURNS’ BEDCHAMBER

It is in this room that Burns often slept and shared intimate exchanges with Anna Park, a serving maid at The Globe Inn. Perhaps he composed his favourite song ‘The Gowden Locks of Anna’ whilst lying with her in this room.

Explore THE HISTORY

St Andrews & The Fife Coast from Glasgow

Fancy a tour to one of the most enchanting and utterly beautiful places in Scotland?

Then let Scotty Tours whisk you away to bonny St Andrews in the majestic Kingdom Of Fife if the answer is yes!

Scotty Tours starts by picking you up at your designated location before we commence our breath taking drive to the home of golf , but remember, there’s FAR more to St Andrews than just golf as you’ll find out later…

We start however at the world famous Old Course for some fantastic photo opportunities including the iconic Swilcan Bridge. Stand where Nicklaus, Watson and Palmer have stood as you say cheese for the camera.

A Scotty Tours tour isn’t complete without a beauteous castle in the mix, so it’s on to St Andrews Castle next for a look at this picturesque ruin. The castle sits on a rocky promontory overlooking Castle Sands and the adjoining North Sea. Home to many Kings, the castle was also used as a prison!

Castles? Cathedrals? St Andrews truly has it all. Our next port of call, St Andrews Cathedral was built in 1158 and is currently a monument in the custody of Historic Scotland. Jaw dropping views lay before you as you stand atop St Rule’s tower in the Cathedral grounds. Bliss…

A wee pit stop for refreshments before we head to the stunning St Andrews University. This was the place where second in line to the British throne, Prince William, met his future bride Kate Middleton. Princes and Princesses? Told you Scotland was the most romantic country in the world didn’t we! The University, the oldest in Scotland, with international renown for research and education, is situated in the picture postcard town.

There aren’t many prettier and historically interesting places to stroll around than St Andrews, so let’s go. Packed with great outdoor places to explore and enjoy and full of attractions, festivals and events, we did tell you that there was far more to St Andrews than golf. Wander at your leisure and discover all the nooks and crannies in this unique wee place.

Steeped in history, you’ll learn as you explore that our patron Saint St Andrew was first recognised as patron Saint of Scotland in 1320. Andrew is also the patron saint of Greece, Romania, Russia and Barbados, but we don’t have time to visit those places this time round. The presence of St Andrew’s relics in Scotland – a tooth, a kneecap, an arm and finger bones! – meant that St Andrew’s became a popular medieval pilgrimage site although they were destroyed in the 16th Century during the Scottish Reformation.

As we wend our way toward home, passing through delightful little fishing villages, we have an absolute treat in store for you. We stop off at the world famous Anstruther Fish Bar And Restaurant for a bite to eat. Once tasted, never forgotten, this multi award winning, family owned business is located on the pretty harbour front. Take in the sounds of the sea and watch the local fishermen bring home their catch as you taste the best fish and chips in the world. It doesn’t get any better than this…

Safely home and tucked up in your comfy bed, St Andrews will inhabit your blissful dreams for years to come.

Please book early for this popular tour to void disappointment.

8 Seater VIP Mini Coach & 16 Seater Executive Mini Coaches Available

• 8 seater – maximim 8 passengers, 8 cases.
• 16 seater – maximim 16 passengers, 16 cases.

Tour Prices

• 8 Seater VIP Mini Coach – £995.
• 16 Seater Executive Mini Coach – £1095.

Scotty Tours, 59 Southcroft Rd, Rutherglen, Glasgow G73 1SP | Terms & Conditions

Tours from Inverness

Tours from inverness - the highlands on your doorstep.

Take a tour from Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, and experience the air of mystery that lurks here. The city is the place you go to start your adventure around Scotland , before venturing to the likes of the Isle of Skye , Loch Ness , and some of the wildest spots in the country. But you may be here for the Highlands themselves. Often shrouded in mist and rain, it’s the kind of place where history, fables, stories, and the promise of adventure lure you in. Captivated? So are we. And our tours from Inverness showcase the best this landscape has to offer.

Planning Your Tour from Inverness

Och, Scotland. She’s a bonnie lass, with her heather-brushed valleys and hazy mountains. This is why you’ve come for a tour from Inverness. The further into the wild you go, the more you realise just how easy it is to lose your heart to a place like Scotland. And with 1-3 day tours from Inverness , the best we have to offer is right at your feet.

Travel Responsibly from Inverness

There’s a wealth of beautiful locations outside of Inverness we want to show you and protect for future generations to enjoy. Through our responsible travel initiative , we take ownership of our actions by donating, volunteering and travelling by small mini-coaches to help preserve the land for many generations to come.

Did You Know?

- Cheese lovers might be interested to know there was once a war fought in Inverness… over cheese. - Everybody knows about Nessie, but Inverness is shrouded in a myriad of other legends, including the Ghosts of Culloden and the Mermaid of Kessock. - Inverness is named after the river goddess Nessa, whose ghost supposedly visits each year to lament her sad story.

Don’t Miss Out

- Many have heard of the Battle of Culloden. It was a turning point in Scottish history. The battlefield may be harrowing but it’s well worth a visit. - Macbeth murdered King Duncan at Inverness Castle . We know it’s just a play, but personally we’d love to see the crime scene for ourselves!

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Skye & Eilean Donan Castle - 1 day tour

Experience your own slice of heaven on Scotland's most famous island.

Prices from £68.00

DEPARTING FROM: Inverness

The Complete Loch Ness Experience - 1 day tour

Your ultimate Loch Ness adventure, from frothy waterfalls to cosy villages and maybe a monster or two.

Prices from £40.00

Glen Affric, Culloden & Clava Cairns - 1 day tour

A true Highland adventure exploring 'Scotland's most beautiful glen' and learning about Culloden.

Prices from £44.00

Orkney Explorer - 3 day tour

Unearth ancient Neolithic mysteries and explore gorgeous coastlines as you discover vibrant Orkney.

Prices from £225.00

Torridon, Applecross & Eilean Donan Castle - 1 day tour

Do mountains make your heart swoon? Does Eilean Donan Castle satisfy your soul? Your adventure calls.

Prices from £53.00

Cairngorms National Park & Whisky - 1 day tour

Time to mix mountain magic with mouthwatering whisky as you journey through the Cairngorms and Speyside.

Prices from £41.00

A Whisky Journey: Drams & Distilleries - 1 day tour

The perfect day for whisky lover's as you explore the best Speyside distilleries.

Lewis, Harris & the Outer Hebrides - 3 day tour

Fine woven materials, white sandy beaches, and mystifying monuments: welcome to Lewis and Harris.

Prices from £239.00

The North Coast 500 - 3 day tour

Scotland's 'Route 66' is a roller-coaster of ruined castles, pristine beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

Prices from £179.00

Dunrobin Castle & the Hidden Gems of Easter Ross - 1 day tour

Savour the elegance of Dunrobin Castle and impeccable views as you discover the famous North Coast 500.

Prices from £51.00

Remote & Rugged: Scottish Highlands Adventure -1 day tour

Pies, mermaids, beaches, and castles; truly experience the remote and rugged Highlands of Scotland on this adventurous day from Inverness.

Prices from £52.00

Private Tours - Inverness

Embark on a journey tailored just for you. We can help you craft your own bespoke itinerary.

Prices from TBC