The results are in from the survey on the Clan Forbes Society 2020 Ancestral Tour! As of March 19, we’ve received responses from 33 people who have provided us guidance in creating the best ancestral tour in Scotland. The survey included questions on everything from length and accommodations to actual ancestral sites and activities. Respondents could provide multiple answers to each question – and here are the results.
About half (48%) prefer a tour of 6 to 7 days while 36% wouldn’t mind 8 to 10 days. Summer is definitely the preferred season with June (41%) and August (38%) the preferred months. Most respondents plan at least a year in advance (55%.) Overwhelmingly, folks expect the accommodations to be included in the cost. A third prefer mid-range hotels while another 21% wouldn’t mind premium historic inns. Over two-third prefer breakfasts included, lunch on their own, some dinners on their own, and two group dinners included.
Not surprisingly, Castle Forbes is the number one choice (97%) to visit! Other top Forbes ancestral sites include Craigievar Castle (73%), Culloden House and Battlefield (70%), Druminnor Castle (67%), Lonach Highland Games in August (55%), Pitsligo Castle & Kirk (48%) and Tolquhon Castle (45%).
Overwhelmingly, respondents (85%) prefer that the tour guides include Clan Chief, Castle Owners & Forbes Lairds, while 53% would like to hear from outside History and Clan Experts.
Respondents have suggested a wide range of additional activities, with the top choices being Aberdeen Tour (64%), Inverness Tour (54%), Whisky Distillery Tour (49%), Shopping (45%), Concert of Scottish Music (45%), Edinburgh Tour (45%), Meeting Locals (42%), and Food & Drink Tasting (42%.)
In addition, two respondents suggested time and speakers for family research and genealogy.
Based on these results, Clan Forbes Society is now working with a tour management company and our cousins in Scotland to finalize the details of the 2020 Forbes Ancestral Tour.
Stay tuned!