Excursion Scotland's alcatraz & slains castle tour at Aberdeen
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Leaving the hustle and bustle of the Silver City behind to visit two key historic sites of Scotland. Drive one scenic hour to Peterhead, or what is often refereed to locally as the "Bloo Toon." Found in the depths of the powerful Aberdeenshire coast, Peterhead is a name synonymous with seafood, thanks to its bustling fishing port. It is also home to one of the region's most favorite attractions.
Step back in time and visit the former H.M. Convict Prison which officially opened in 1888 for the "inside story" of those brave personnel that staffed the first convict prison in Scotland from August 1888 to December 2013. Interact with guides in period costumes and see the cells and other key components of this complex that is known worldwide. A visit here will both enthral and teach you what life was really like behind bars.
Adding to the spectacle and grandeur of the area, next travel the short distance to Cruden Bay, where you can find the dramatic cliff edge ruin of Slains Castle. It is here that Bram Stoker is said to have been so inspired by the castle that he created Dracula.
Overlooking the?North Sea, the core of the castle is a 16th-century?tower house, built by the?9th Earl of Erroll. Significant reconstruction of the castle has been carried out several times, lastly in 1837 when it was rebuilt as a?Scots Baronial?mansion. At one time it had three extensive gardens but is now a roofless ruin. The cliff scenery here is spectacular and seabirds of many species such as Puffins, Kittiwakes, Guillemots and Razorbills can often be seen.
Return to the "Granite City" and your awaiting ship.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Peterhead, Peterhead Prison, Slains Castle
Note
Please note: This tour is generally not wheelchair accessible, but some accommodations may be made if tour operator is notified in advance. At Peterhead Prison Museum there is no electric wheelchair access, however if notified in advance, there may be other access available throughout the prison tour. Slains Castle is not wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair guests must be accompanied by a travel companion as the guide cannot undertake responsibility for them during the tour. Warm layered clothing recommended as it can be quite cold inside these sites, and comfortable, suitable footwear are required (no heels please).