This very relaxed day trip on the ‘back’ roads of Mid and East Lothian allows ample time to see five castles (visiting two), have a leisurely lunch in North Berwick and visit the ever-friendly (and generous!) Glenkinchie Distillery.

As we leave Edinburgh we soon pass Craigmillar Castle, just 3 miles from Edinburgh city centre. It was here the plot to kill Mary Queen of Scots’ second husband (Lord Darnley) was hatched.

Very soon we're at Borthwick Castle which, like so many Scottish castles has strong links with Mary Queen of Scots. She fled here from Edinburgh and sought refuge with her third husband the Earl of Bothwell. Shortly after she was forced to abdicate and imprisoned in Loch Leven Castle. Meanwhile her husband escaped across the North Sea to Denmark. The building is in excellent condition and is one of the best preserved 15th century castles in Scotland.

As we travel into Midlothian we stop for a stunning view and photograph of Crichton Castle. Our fourth fortress is Hailes Castle, overlooking the River Tyne and thought to contain some of the oldest stonework in Scotland (admission free.). You will have time to explore this hidden corner of East Lothian before we travel to the coast.We have lunch in the pretty seaside town of North Berwick. You will have time to explore the harbour area and admire the spectacular views over the Bass Rock and the Firth of Forth.

Glenkinchie Distillery

In the mid 14th century English invaders necessitated the construction of Tantallon Castle and we will visit this amazing clifftop fortress, one of the most dramatically located castles in Scotland (£4.70 adults/£3.80 concession). Tantallon Castle is a ‘must see’ historical attraction on the east coast of Scotland with spectacular views across the Firth of Forth to the ancient Kingdom of Fife.

Our final stop is the Glenkinchie Distillery in the rolling farmland of East Lothian. Fine malt whisky has been produced here since 1840. You will have time for a guided tour of the distillery, to visit the museum and, of course, savour a dram of Scotland ’s spirit itself. (Entrance fee £4.50/£4.00 concession).

Our journey back to Edinburgh takes us through the (extinct!) volcanic heart of the city - Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park - to Scotland 's spectacular new Parliament building. A good way to link the past and present as Scotland 's story goes on...