Touring News: Winter Olympics – Origins of Curling in Scotland

18th February 2026

Good afternoon from Backpacker Tours and with our sister-site Best Value Tours – where we are delighted to to continue our ‘Interesting Information’ and ‘Touring News’ Series and today we feature: Origins of the Sport of Curling in Scotland

A typical traditional Curling Match in a beautiful Scottish Village around 1550

Origins of the Sport of Curling and Village life in Scotland around 1550

Wander into a scenic and charming, misty loch side village in 1550s Scotland, you’ll hear laughter long before you see the ice. Winter turns the ponds into glassy playgrounds where curling was born. Long before Winter Olympics, folks in wool cloaks were sliding hefty stones across frozen water just to see who could get closest to a mark scratched into the ice. No refs, no fancy lanes, just cold fingers, loud bragging, and the simple joy of a game that felt like magic on a winter morning.

The earliest whispers of curling come from places like Stirling, where frozen lochs were common gathering spots. Farmers, millers, and blacksmiths would finish their chores and drift toward the ice, stones tucked under arms like prized loaves of bread. Someone would bring a jug of ale. Someone else would bring a fiddle.

Village life wrapped itself around these icy meetups. Curling days doubled as gossip exchanges, match-making opportunities, and excuses to stand shoulder to shoulder against the cold. Kids learned to walk on slippery ground by chasing runaway stones. Elders judged technique from the bank, offering “helpful” advice nobody asked for. When the sun dipped low, everyone trudged back to smoky cottages, cheeks red, spirits high.

So curling didn’t start as a polished sport, it started as a winter excuse to gather, to compete a little, and to feel alive in a harsh season. Even now, that old village energy still hums beneath every sliding stone.

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Stunning Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, Scotland

Here are a few of our great Tours, found in our Fabulous Scotland Collection

Edinburgh Day Trip from London by Train

The Edinburgh Day Trip from London by Train offers an effortless and unforgettable way to experience Scotland’s majestic capital in just one day. Departing from London King’s Cross Station, you’ll embark on a scenic rail journey that reveals the natural beauty and character of the British countryside.

Edinburgh Whisky Experience Rail Tour from London

Once in the city, head to the famous Scotch Whisky Experience, located beside Edinburgh Castle. Learn the art of crafting single-malt whiskies and sample four distinctive regional varieties. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and the bustling Royal Mile. Browse shops, stop at traditional pubs, and admire centuries-old architecture.

Edinburgh Overnight Rail Trip from London

Experience the magic of Scotland on the Edinburgh Overnight Rail Trip from London. A relaxing and immersive way to explore the Scottish capital. Depart from London King’s Cross and travel north by train. Passing rolling hills, quaint villages, and scenic landscapes. Arrive in Edinburgh ready to uncover centuries of history, culture, and charm.

3 Day Edinburgh & Outlander Rail Tour from London

The 3 Day Edinburgh & Outlander Rail Tour from London is a perfect short escape for fans of the hit TV series Outlander. First, travel by train from London to Scotland’s atmospheric capital, where you will enjoy two nights’ accommodation in a centrally located 3-star hotel. With your stay sorted, you can then focus on exploring Edinburgh’s rich heritage at your own pace.

Highland Games Day Tour

Immerse yourself in the thrill of the Highland Games Day Tour from Edinburgh. A celebration of Scottish heritage, athleticism, and pageantry. From caber tossing and hammer throwing to Highland dancing and piping competitions. This tour offers a full day of excitement and culture against the breath taking backdrop of Scotland’s iconic landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to see the Games’ legendary pageantry, this is a perfect opportunity to witness the athletic prowess and festive spirit of the Highlands.

Day Trip Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands

Experience the magic of Scotland on a full day adventure with our Day Trip Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands. Departing from Edinburgh, this unforgettable journey takes you through some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes. Including rugged mountains, sweeping moorlands, and the iconic glens of the Highlands.

Harry Potter Highlands & Hogwarts Express Day Tour

The Harry Potter Highlands & Hogwarts Express Day Tour is a magical adventure from Edinburgh. It combines breath taking scenery with iconic filming locations from the Harry Potter series. On this full-day trip, you’ll travel through the Scottish Highlands and ride a legendary steam train. All whilst exploring dramatic landscapes that have inspired generations of fans. Perfect for Harry Potter enthusiasts and anyone who loves unforgettable experiences. This tour brings Scotland’s natural beauty and cinematic history to life.

Fife Coastal Trail & St Andrews Day Tour

The Fife Coastal Trail & St Andrews Day Tour is a full-day adventure from Edinburgh along Scotland’s scenic Fife coastline. You’ll explore charming fishing villages, historic landmarks, and breath taking coastal scenery. This tour is perfect for travellers who love history, culture, and dramatic views. Offering a mix of sightseeing, stories, and relaxed exploration.

3 Day Highlands and Isle of Skye Tour from Edinburgh

The 3 Day Isle of Skye Tour from Edinburgh is ideal for travellers who want to experience Scotland quickly and fully. Departing from Edinburgh, the journey takes you into the Highlands, passing castles, lochs, and majestic mountains. First, you explore famous landscapes such as Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe, each steeped in history and legend. Along the way, your local guide shares stories that make the scenery even more memorable. Then, you head west toward the dramatic coastline and cross to the Isle of Skye. A mystical island renowned for its rugged peaks, ancient clans, and captivating folklore.

5 Day Winter Scotland Adventure

Set out on an unforgettable winter journey through Scotland, where dramatic Highland landscapes are heightened by crisp air, quiet roads, and a sense of timeless wonder. Travelling from Edinburgh into the heart of the Highlands, this immersive adventure showcases legendary scenery, ancient history, and warm local hospitality. From snow-dusted mountains and shimmering lochs to castles steeped in myth, Scotland reveals a quieter, more magical side during the winter months.

11 Day – England and Scotland Tour

Discover the best of Britain on the 11 Day – England and Scotland Tour. Blending iconic cities, dramatic landscapes and rich heritage across two incredible countries. From historic London through medieval towns, the rolling hills of the Lake District to Scotland’s rugged Highlands and vibrant cities. This journey offers a full-scale British adventure packed with variety and charm. Expect comfortable accommodation, expert guides, transport throughout and unforgettable experiences. All delivered in one seamless package.

19 Day UK and Ireland Tour – Peaks & Pubs

The 19 Day UK and Ireland Tour – Peaks & Pubs, is the ultimate multi-country journey for backpackers who want variety, culture, and freedom. Over 19 unforgettable days, you’ll travel through England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Ireland, and Wales. This trip blends iconic sights with relaxed free time, giving you space to explore at your own pace. You’ll move between cities using trains, coaches, ferries, and local transport, guided by an experienced Trip Leader throughout.

More from Backpacker Tours – Stonehenge, UK/Ireland, Festivals and Events, European, Worldwide and much more Contact Details below and do shout, we are happy to help with any questions Call, WhatsApp or Email  Contact Us. 

Magnificent Eilean Dornie Castle in winter

please see below for more previous ‘Helpful Posts’

from Backpacker Tours and our sister-site Best Value Tours

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Please see below for more previous ‘Helpful Posts’

from Backpacker Tours and our sister-site Best Value Tours

Helpful Information to Enjoy Stonehenge Inner Circle Tours/Calendar

For a truly magical, unforgettable experience, the Inner Circle Tour at Stonehenge is an absolute must-do; an invitation to unlock the magic of this mystical ancient monument. With thousands of years of rich, varied history, from the Druids to the Romans and beyond, Stonehenge is layered with stories that continue to captivate the world today. This exclusive Inner Circle (also know as private access) visit offers the rare chance to step inside the world’s most famous prehistoric monument, an experience only a privileged few enjoy each year.

On our Inner Circle tours, you are accompanied by an informative and entertaining expert Stonehenge guide who brings the stones vividly to life. Discover the astonishing mathematical precision behind their construction and how ancient builders aligned the massive sarsen stones and smaller bluestones with remarkable accuracy – fascinating! These alignments track key moments in the astronomical calendar, following the rising and setting of the sun and moon.

Amazingly this precisely aligned monument was achieved with the limited resources of around 2,000 years ago. Just one chapter in a 5,000-year story of monuments and celebration on this magical, sacred landscape. Step inside the circle, feel the presence of the past, and experience the magic for yourself, its truly real.

Stonehenge Inner Circle Calendar

The main Inner Circle season at Stonehenge, when most options are available, typically runs from March through September, when most access tours take place and generally the weather is kinder. To protect the fragile ground within the circle, access visits are currently paused in October and November each year. There is ongoing discussion about whether modern conservation techniques might allow these months to reopen in the future and if that happens, we will be the first to share the news. Please do look out for our ‘Stonehenge News’ updates.

Inner Circle experiences are offered most f the year in the morning and at times of year when daylight permits, in the evening. dates are limited when guests are permitted to stand within the stones, sometimes for the actual sunrise or sunset. If that is high on your wish list, get in touch with us (details below) and we will gladly help you plan it, free of charge. Time slots most guests prefer are just after sunrise or just before sunset – truly spectacular. As the light shifts across the stones, the ancient alignments with the sun and moon suddenly make perfect sense, brought vividly to life by your entertaining and deeply knowledgeable Stonehenge expert guide.

Because of shorter daylight hours, evening and sunset Inner Circle tours operate from March to September only. Morning access, however, is still available during the winter months of December to February. Please note there is no access on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve, or New Year’s Day.

One of the most wondrous times of the year is the Summer Solstice. Each year, on 20th June at sunset and 21st June at sunrise, the site returns to its ancient purpose as a place of celebration, ritual, music, drumming, pipes, and joyful gathering. We offer two exceptional Solstice tours with options for both sunrise and sunset, along with additional experiences. For full details see below and we highly recommend this uplifting experience.

In preparation for and following the Summer Solstice celebrations, access to the stones is unavailable from 16th–19th June and 22nd–30th June each year. As you will imagine, this is peak season and the dates immediately before and after this period are the most sought-after of the entire year and these popular slots tend to sell out quickly. If you would like guidance on choosing the best dates or securing a place(s), please feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help with any questions, completely free of charge – ‘We are here to help’.

Weather at Stonehenge

The weather at Stonehenge considerably varies by season and can change quickly, so it is best to come prepared year-round. March to May brings cool mornings, milder afternoons, and frequent spring showers, with occasional brisk winds across the open plain. June to August is generally warmer and brighter, but don’t be fooled, sunshine can turn to rain in minutes and breezes often make it feel cooler than expected. September remains pleasant yet increasingly changeable, with cooler evenings and a higher chance of mist or drizzle. Winter mornings from December to February are cold, sometimes frosty, and can be damp, though crisp, clear days are not uncommon. Whatever the season, wear sturdy footwear for grassy ground, dress in warm layers, and always bring a waterproof jacket. A hat, sunscreen, and gloves can all be useful, sometimes on the same day!

2026/7 Stonehenge Inner Circle Tours / Dates

Evening Sunset Tour

2026

3rd, 7th, 10th, 14th, 17th and 24th March 2026

4th or 7th April 2026

2nd, 5th, 9th, 12th, 16th, 19th 23rd, 26th or 30th May 2026

2nd, 6th or 9th June 2026

4th, 7th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 21st or 28th July 2026

1st, 4th, 8th, 11th, 18th, 22nd, 25th or 29th August 2026

1st, 5th, 8th, 15th or 19th September 2026

Some of our tours including the Cotswolds

Small Group Day Tour – Stratford, Warwick Castle, Oxford and the Cotswolds

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s venues are in Stratford, a picturesque market town in rural England, where William Shakespeare was born. A lovely river flows through town, past Shakespeare’s grave at Holy Trinity Church. Shakespeare’s Birthplace is one of many amazing half-wooden buildings from his time.

Stonehenge Inner Circle, Lacock and Bath Morning or Evening

Experience Stonehenge like never before with exclusive private access to the Inner Circle. Step among the mighty Sarsen stones while your expert guide reveals the monument’s origins, significance, and ancient astronomical alignments. Learn about iconic features such as the Altar Stone, Slaughter Stone, and Heel Stone, gaining a rare, intimate perspective of this world-famous site.

Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath & Oxford 2 Day Tour

Embark on the Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath & Oxford 2 Day Tour, a perfect short break through England’s most iconic destinations. This tour combines history, culture, and stunning scenery with the ease of a small-group adventure. Travel in a comfortable mini-coach with an expert local guide, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. With a maximum of 16 people, you’ll experience a personalised trip that  explores both famous landmarks and hidden gems, from bustling towns to tranquil countryside.

Oxford, Cotswolds & Country Pub Lunch

Join our small-group tour from London and discover two of England’s most beautiful places: Oxford and the Cotswolds. This trip is perfect for history lovers and those who enjoy stunning scenery. We keep our groups small, with a maximum of 16 people. This means a more personal experience for you. Plus, we use vehicles that can reach charming, narrow country lanes. Big coaches can’t go there!

Stonehenge, Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon and Cotswolds

Stonehenge, the world’s most famous prehistoric monument, is our first stop. Come see the 40-ton Sarsens and volcanic blue stones from Preseli highlands 280 miles away. Discover the slaughter stone’s mysteries and visit the beaker people’s earth barrows before heading to Bath across Salisbury plains. Bath, a world heritage site, has lovely crescents, terraces, and architecture. There will be time to shop and explore before our Cotswolds trip. Driving north to Stratford via the Cotswolds, we see vast landscape crisscrossed by dry stone walls and vibrant market towns with majestic perpendicular churches.

Cotswolds and Stonehenge Day Tour from Bath

Embark on a captivating exploration of England’s rich heritage. This day tour from Bath uncovers prehistoric mysteries and charming villages. Journey through legendary sites, revealing the compelling stories of Stonehenge and the delightful Cotswolds. Immerse yourself in landscapes deeply steeped in history.

In Depth Tour of The Stunning Cotswolds with Lunch in Bibury

Your full-day journey into the heart of the Cotswolds begins in Burford, a picturesque market town often referred to as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds.” Its magnificent High Street, lined with honey-coloured stone buildings, showcases every shade of classic Cotswold stone. Enjoy time at leisure to browse the charming tea rooms, antique shops, and local boutiques that give Burford its timeless character.

Cotswolds and Oxford Day Tour from Bath

Embark on an enriching tour from Bath, unveiling the alluring character of the English countryside. This immersive tour extends beyond familiar routes, uncovering concealed treasures and celebrated landmarks. Explore the enchanting Cotswolds and the historic city of Oxford, a journey that masterfully combines scholarly legacy with rustic appeal.

More from Backpacker Tours – Stonehenge, UK/Ireland, Festivals and Events, European, Worldwide and much more Contact Details below and do shout, we are happy to help with any questions Call, WhatsApp or Email  Contact Us. 

Hever Castle and Leeds Castle, Kent

Escape the bustle of London and discover the timeless beauty of Kent, famously known as the Garden of England, on a carefully curated day tour that blends history, countryside, and classic English elegance. This memorable experience carries you from the capital into rolling landscapes, charming villages, and two of the county’s most celebrated landmarks, Leeds Castle and Hever Castle, offering a rich and rewarding glimpse into England’s royal past.

Set amid a tranquil lake and sweeping parkland, Leeds Castle is often regarded as one of the most beautiful castles in the world. With admission included, you are free to explore its remarkable interiors, where more than 900 years of history unfold through grand state rooms, medieval chambers, and refined Tudor spaces once occupied by kings, queens, and aristocrats. Outside, the gardens invite peaceful wandering, from colourful formal displays to lakeside paths and the famously playful maze, creating a perfectly balanced and relaxing atmosphere.

The journey continues to the enchanting Hever Castle, childhood home of Anne Boleyn and a place steeped in Tudor drama and romance. Inside the moated castle, richly furnished rooms and compelling exhibitions bring the Boleyn story vividly to life. Beyond the walls, beautifully designed gardens, Italian sculptures, rose-filled paths, and serene waters complete an inspiring countryside escape.

Traveling in comfort with all arrangements taken care of, this Kent tour from London offers a seamless way to experience two remarkable castles, leaving you with lasting memories of England’s heritage, beauty, and enduring charm.

More Discounted Winter Day Tours of/from London

Discounts – Stonehenge Morning Inner Circle, Lacock and Bath with Roman Baths

Experience Stonehenge with rare private access to the Inner Circle, standing among the towering Sarsen stones as an expert guide explains their origins, purpose, and ancient astronomical alignments. Discover features such as the Heel Stone and Altar Stone up close. Continue to the charming village of Lacock, known for its Saxon history, stone cottages, and film locations, with time for an optional meal at a historic pub. Finish in elegant Bath, famed for Georgian architecture and Roman Baths, traveling in comfort with a professional guide.

Discounts – In Depth Tour of The Stunning Cotswolds with Lunch in Bibury

Begin a full-day journey into the Cotswolds in Burford, the charming “Gateway to the Cotswolds,” famed for its sloping High Street and honey-coloured stone buildings. Enjoy free time to explore tea rooms, antique shops, and boutiques. Continue to idyllic Bibury, described by William Morris as the prettiest village in England, set beside the River Coln. Enjoy a two-course lunch at the historic Swan Hotel, if selected. In the afternoon, travel through rolling countryside to Stow-on-the-Wold for a guided walk, before a relaxing return to London at day’s end.

Discounts – London Tour with Harrods Cream Tea & Private River Cruise

Enjoy an unforgettable London sightseeing day with early access to St Paul’s Cathedral, exploring Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece before the crowds and discovering the tombs of Nelson and Wellington. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, subject to availability, then enjoy free time for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Tower of London and admire the Crown Jewels and historic landmarks. Cruise the Thames on a private boat, passing Tower Bridge and Parliament, before finishing with a luxurious Cream Tea at Harrods with Prosecco and live music.

Discounts – Stonehenge and Full Afternoon in Bath

Journey through England’s ancient wonders and Georgian elegance on a full-day guided tour to Stonehenge and Bath. Begin at UNESCO-listed Stonehenge, walking among the mysterious 5,000-year-old stones while learning the leading theories behind their purpose. Continue to the beautiful city of Bath, arriving in time for lunch and free exploration. Admire graceful crescents, Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and Pulteney Bridge, or visit the Jane Austen Centre. With ample free time, shopping, sightseeing, or afternoon tea, this relaxed tour perfectly blends history, culture, and charm in one memorable day.

Small Group Day Tours

Regional UK Departures 

Train Tours

Harry Potter – Behind the Scenes Studio Tour 

Discounted in February and March

Step into the enchanting world of Harry Potter with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, a magical experience that invites fans to journey behind the scenes of one of the most beloved film series ever created. Your adventure begins with captivating insights from expert guides who share fascinating stories about the production, from early concept ideas to the intricate craftsmanship that shaped the wizarding world.

Epic ABBA Voyage Concert at the ABBA Voyage Arena  

ABBA Voyage is the long-awaited concert from one of the biggest pop acts of all time, presenting a dazzling setlist of ABBA’s most loved and iconic songs, each handpicked with care by the band themselves. Performed in ABBA’s breathtaking purpose-built Arena, this show redefines live entertainment and delivers a music experience unlike anything you have seen before, blending cutting-edge technology with timeless pop magic.

More Train Tours

Explore Anfield Iconic Liverpool Football Club by Train 

Welcome to Liverpool, a city that blends sporting legend, maritime heritage, and creative energy into an unforgettable escape. Just a short and comfortable train journey from London’s Euston Station to Liverpool Lime Street, this experience offers an easy gateway to one of Britain’s most charismatic destinations. Football lovers will feel instantly at home as the story of Liverpool Football Club comes alive at Anfield Stadium, a global icon where passion, history, and atmosphere are unmatched. Behind the scenes, the stadium reveals its most celebrated spaces, allowing you to connect with the legacy of the club in an immersive and memorable way.

Visit Historic Maritime Portsmouth from London by Train 

Historic dockyards showcase mighty ships from Tudor times through the age of Nelson, while museums across the city continue the nautical story with exhibitions dedicated to the Royal Marines, D-Day, and marine life. Follow in Admiral Nelson’s footsteps with a visit to HMS Victory at Portsmouth’s Historic Naval Dockyard, the world’s oldest commissioned warship, where decks, cannons, and cabins reveal daily life aboard the flagship that led Britain to triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Explore Vibrant Historic Bristol by train from London

Welcome to Bristol, a city where history, art, and adventure collide in endlessly engaging ways. Set in southwest England, Bristol is a lively, independent-minded destination celebrated for its world-famous street art, including early works by the elusive Banksy, and for striking landmarks such as the awe-inspiring Clifton Suspension Bridge soaring above the Avon Gorge. The city’s character is shaped by centuries of maritime heritage, creative rebellion, and innovation, giving it an energy that feels both historic and refreshingly modern.

Visit Beautiful Lake District on a Scenic Train Journey from London 

Begin your journey at London’s Euston Station, where the anticipation builds as you board a train bound for Oxenholme. As the city slips away, watch the landscape soften into rolling hills, stone walls, and pockets of timeless English countryside, setting a calm and reflective tone for the day ahead.

More Helpful Links

Stonehenge Depart from London Day Tours – Stonehenge Morning Inner Circle, Lacock and Bath, Stonehenge Morning Inner Circle, Windsor and Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Windsor and Bath, Stonehenge, Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon and Cotswolds, Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath with Lunch in Lacock Cotswolds, Stonehenge and Windsor Castle, Stonehenge Half Day, Stonehenge and all afternoon in Bath

More Depart from London Day Tours – Harry Potter Behind the Scenes Studio Tour, Windsor Castle Half Day, Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich, Cardiff Day Trip, In Depth Cotswolds with Lunch in Bilbury, Day Trip to the Isle of Wight with Osborne House

London Tours – Full Day Highlights of London Tour, London Royal Highlights: Windsor Castle & Buckingham Palace Tour, London Tour with Harrods Cream Tea & Private River Cruise, Tower of London and Windsor Castle Tour, London Open Top Bus Tour & River Cruise with Optional London Eye or Fish & Chips

London Themed Tours – London Classic Rock and Beatles Tour, Vintage Open Top Bus London Tour with Harrods Cream Tea, Camden Music Walking Tour London, Taylor Swift London Walking Tour, London Music Walking Tour in Soho, James Bond Walking Tour 

Depart Scotland Day Tours – Lochs, Castles and Kelpies, Alnwick Castle and Bamburgh, West Highlands and Loch Lomond, Outlander Trail, Waterfalls, Warriors and Whiskey, Loch Ness and Highlands, Fife and St Andrews Coastal Trail, Harry Potter Highlands and Hogwarts Express

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