Dear Members and Friends of Royal Oak,

        From the architectural splendors of Edinburgh, known as “the Athens of the North,” to the majestic peaks of the Highlands, Scotland is a beautiful and exciting destination. This exceptional program features a four-day “country house party” aboard the exclusively chartered Royal Scotsman train.

        We are pleased to be accompanied by author, lecturer and preservationist Dwight Young, as well as a faculty member from Harvard University. Local experts will further enrich our program with their knowledge of Scottish history and culture.

        Our program begins in Edinburgh, with its magnificent castle, picturesque neighborhoods and fine museums. Accommodations are at the Scotsman Hotel, a restored and converted newspaper building whose original period features blend with contemporary art and furniture. Travel to the Borders countryside to see some of the most important Scottish country houses. Enjoy a private reception at Mellerstain, a Robert Adam house, and an architect-led tour of Abbotsford, once the home of Sir Walter Scott.

        At Waverley Station we will be “piped” aboard The Royal Scotsman, a vintage Edwardian-style train, for a luxurious journey full of magic and charm. Experience Scotland’s ever-changing landscape as we ride the rails along the east coast up to Keith, then head across the Highlands. From Inverness, we will continue south to Perth. Our private motorcoach will travel with us for visits to sights such as Glamis Castle, childhood home of the Late HM Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother.

        As the train weaves past lochs and firths, and along virgin stretches of coast, we will see rugged castles on misty hills outside, but within The Royal Scotsman we will be cocooned in warmth and hospitality. The level of service is reminiscent of an earlier and pampered era. Gourmet food expertly paired with fine wines is produced for every meal, and nightly entertainment is arranged in the observation car. An optional golf prelude is planned in St. Andrews.

        We will be joined on this program by members of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Harvard Alumni Association. Because The Royal Scotsman accommodates a maximum of thirty-six guests, may I suggest that you reserve today?

Sincerely yours,


John Oddy
Executive Director