The tour describes the regime in Scotland's only "Convict" prison. The tour describes how it housed Britain's first "state owned" railway and you will see former carriages and fittings, that were used in the railway. The tour describes and shows visitors how the famous SAS were used to end a dramatic 4 day siege in 1987. The tour will walk you through 125 years of turbulent history of Scotland's only high security prison. The tour will tease all your senses, from the visual, to the audio and olfactory leaving you thinking an inmate might just walk round the next corner. The tour is now a multi award winning visitor attraction and graded as a 5* attraction by Visit Scotland.
St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm)
SELLS OUT IN SUMMER - book early to avoid disappointment. Our tour is a must do on a visit to St Andrews. Of course, it's the home of golf in Scotland, but there's much more to see around town. A centre beaming with long-time locals, students from all over the world and even royalty! When walking around, you get a sense of the traditions that have been held for over 800 years, as well as modern Scottish town life all at once. Join us on a 1.5 hour leisurely stroll around the main sights of the town with a local, expert guide. Learn about it’s history as you walk in the footsteps of 8th century witches, university traditions and golfing legends who stepped foot on the same cobbled streets, as well as modern life in the town today. Your local guide will bring St Andrews alive. Key sights: St Andrews' Cathedral St Andrews' Castle The Old Course North St & Market St The University of Saint Andrews St. Salvator's Chapel and many more hidden gems!
Discover Aberdeen through a local's eyes, discovering local history and culture on this 1.5 hour walking tour with your guide every day at 2pm. Discover Aberdeen's rich history from being a small fishing settlement to the centre of oil for Europe. Make your way through some of the oldest streets, explore tunnels and retrace the steps of some of Aberdeen's most important figures in our (sometimes very dark) history. You'll also discover the amazing street art that has overtaken Aberdeen and has become a huge part of the culture. From unassuming corners to major buildings, there’s art around every turn and your guide knows just where to find the best of the best. Key sights: Marischal College St Nicholas' Kirk Netherkirkgate Tunnels and Witch Trials Shiprow Union St Amazing Aberdeen Street Art And other hidden gems!
These are bucket list award-winning tours with professional local guides. Aimed primarily at those with a more in-depth interest in golf, you will learn about the origins and the development of both the game and the Old Course through a timeline spanning the 13th to 20th century, plus Open and Dunhill history, finishing with a photo shoot on the iconic Swilkan Bridge (excludes tournament days). Hear memorable Road Hole moments and gain recommendations for a few more things on the bucket list to do while here, including the Himalayas and the Jigger Inn. Round off your tour by the Old Course Jigger Inn. Sundays - Walk on the Old Course fairway - excludes championship/tournament days) *Check the booking calendar for availability Tours endorsed by famed Golf historian David Joy and RIck Steves.
Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen
Combine the majestic heights of Royal Deeside with the epic cliff-top site of Dunnottar Castle. For almost 150 years, the British royal family have travelled to the River Dee for their holidays. With almost unlimited cash and resources, why do they always come here? We think there’s an easy answer. This area encapsulates everything everyone loves about Scotland. You find grand castles enclosed by pine forests. You look up at the highest plateau in Britain in the Cairngorms National Park. And there’s enough nearby distilleries to satisfy any royal event. So, who wouldn’t want to escape to the fresh air of this location? On this tour, we combine her Majesty’s favourite holiday spot with a trip to Dunnottar Castle, one of the most historically important and visually arresting sights in Scotland. Hop aboard this tour, see an epic castle, and discover whether you have the same taste as the royals.
Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen
The battles, beauty, and whisky: This is your perfect introduction to Scotland. You shed a tear as you hear the tales and tragedies of Scotland’s Jacobite Rising at the Culloden Battlefield. You try to take your best photo as you pass by Scotland’s famous mountains and castles. And you lick your lips as you drink in the spirit of Scottish whisky in Dufftown, ‘the Whisky Capital of the World’. What’s more, you get as close as possible to the legendary Loch Ness Monster on an optional boat trip. So, take this trip and enjoy the best of Scotland in a day.
St Andrews Tours: Town, Golf and Old Course History
For the golfer and non-golfer, there is something for everyone on these award-winning tours. Your guide will give a passionate all-round insight into how the game developed through St Andrews unique history as you explore the University and cathedral with graves of the Tom Morris family and Allan Robertson. Then to the Palace and a leafy stroll to the Old Course learning of the Open and Old Course history, finishing with a photo shoot on the Swilkan Bridge (excludes tournament days).
Starting from Aberdeen we trace the river Dee to Balmoral where you can walk in the footsteps of generations of Royals who have called this estate home. *Balmoral Estate is closed from 9th of August 26 until early October 2026. We visit the village of Braemar and optional Braemar Castle. Take a stroll in the charming Victorian village of Ballater, explore the local heritage, the Victorian train station and the views of the area. Next, we visit the iconic Cambus O'May suspension bridge, before we continue our journey to the Tomnavarie Stone Circle. Finally, on our way back to Aberdeen, we stop at Queen Victoria's favourite views of Aberdeenshire.
Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour
**SELLS OUT IN SUMMER - please book early to avoid disappointment** St Andrews; the home of golf. What better way to discover St Andrews golf legacy and the Old Course than with a local expert! With a local guide, maximise your time in St Andrews on a private tour. Do something different and discover the controversies and quirks of golf, as well as a local insight into the politics of golf in the town. Get the insider scoop to the Royal and Ancient politics from a local outsider - without the bias. From the origins of the sport, and spending time on the 1st, 17th & 18th fairways, finish off with a photo on the famous Swilken Bridge, discover our incredible legacy with your local guide. You'll also see where some of the most famous shots in golf history took place (The Sands of Nakajima, Eisenhower on the Old Course etc.). Discover: Royal and Ancient Club Royal and Ancient Golf Museum 1st Tee & Fairway Putting Green 17th Green 18th Fairway Swilken Bridge …and many more hidden gems!
North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen
Look out for sea creatures, ancient castles, and beautiful beaches on this tour along Scotland’s North East Coast. On this tour, you venture from Aberdeen and travel along Scotland’s North East Coast. You stumble upon strange caves and rock formations, spot dolphins at sea, and admire a grand castle that inspired scenes from Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Your driver-guide keeps you entertained with stories from the past and will even recommend their favourite place to taste traditional Scottish Cullen Skink soup at your lunch stop in Cullen. Join this tour, explore the shores, and discover the wonders of North East Scotland.
Visit the stunning Northeast Coast of Aberdeenshire and it will steal your heart. On this tour we will visit some of the region's most dramatic coastline. Taking time to wander through some of the most beautiful fishing villages including Gardenstown and Crovie, to learn about its maritime past and present. Hear stories about a few influential characters and ‘Local Heroes’ who called this countryside home. From working harbours to abandoned castles and tall cliffs where the seabird colonies cling to nest, this tour will immerse you in the heritage of the northeast and its connection to the sea.
Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide
Explore St Andrews the way you want to, spend quality time with a local and get a real taste for our beautiful town. With flexible meeting and end points, and a dedicated local guide, maximise your time in St Andrews on a private tour. A quaint town beaming with locals, students from all over the world and even royalty, St Andrew’s is charming, whichever way you look! From the international home of golf, to the world’s third oldest university, with one of the most beautiful shorelines on the east coast, there’s something for everyone in this idyllic town. Join us on a 1.5 hour leisurely stroll around the main sights of the town with an expert, local guide and learn things you wouldn't learn visiting yourself. Discover St Andrews as you walk in the footsteps of golfing legends, royals, heretics who were burned at the stake, famous cats and those who live in St Andrews today
Visit the City of Aberdeen Distillery & Gin School - with a double G&T in hand, join us on a Discovery Tour and learn about Aberdeen’s lost distilling heritage, explore the distillery including the restricted production area, find out how you can make your own gin either at the distillery or at home, take part in a Q&A session with the head distiller and finally, enjoy a gin tasting from the range of true Aberdeen gins.
Join us for a scenic day exploring Aberdeenshire's beautiful and diverse landscape and get a real taste of the region. From rural country life to dramatic castles and the stunning coastline. We’ll visit the iconic Dunnottar Castle, perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the North Sea, and the gorgeous village of Stonehaven with it's many temping offers. In the afternoon we head over to Mill of Benholm a real hidden gem in the Mearns and finish at Greyhope Bay, and the mouth of the River Dee to try and spot some wildlife. Along the way, you’ll get to sample some of the local experience with a tasting of regional treats. This relaxed and friendly tour is perfect for travellers who want to discover the natural beauty, rich history, and unique tastes of Aberdeenshire.
Speyside Whisky Trail Day Tour from Aberdeen Including Admissions
Whether you're a whisky lover or a whisky learner, you're bound to get a taste for it in the beautiful region of Speyside. Home to around 50% of all Scottish whisky distilleries, there's almost too much to see and drink. So on this tour, we help you get the most out of the region by taking you to two distinct distilleries. It’s a chance to learn about the incredible history, process, and flavours of Scotland’s national drink.
We take our time to make the very best of your time with us. Little roads and flexible journeys to get you away from the well worn paths with a rolling tale of the tour including some singing and the possibility of meeting local people. A very comfortable and quiet vehicle with excellent access. Guides are experienced, careful drivers who know their home and love to share it with you.
500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
From bodysnatching and beheadings to witchcraft and whippings, we share real life stories of crime and punishment from the last 500 years on this self-guided GPS audio tour. Along the way you’ll see major Aberdeen landmarks, from Marischal College to the Mercat Cross, and learn how they were witness to darkest chapters in the city’s history. Scot Free Tours sheds a light on the baffling and often unjust laws of the last five centuries – and reveals that past is not as far away as we think. Thousands of people have loved our 5-star rated live tours and now you can experience them with freedom of an audio guide! The tour plays audio automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smartphone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline. Start the tour in the app, put your phone in your pocket, and let us guide you around Aberdeen. The total walking distance is 3km and takes about 45 minutes without stopping, but you can pause anytime!
Unique tour to three top distilleries! We pick you up! Let us know where you are. Whiskywheels tours specialise in the wonderful whisky that Scotland has to offer. Whisky Trifecta tour - Glenlivet, Glenallchie and Strathisla. Glenallachie The jewel in the crown of Speyside. Many awards, low volume , independently owned. Glenallachie take their time to produce some of the best single malts in the world. Strathisla A world class distillery that is also one of the oldest working distilleries in the world with over 232 years of producing the water of life. Try out their blending experience and take away your own whisky created by you. Glenlivet The tour and tasting at Glenlivet takes you back in time to how whisky was first made in Speyside. The oldest legal single malt distillery in the world. Glenlivet also produce the most single malt spirit in the world most years. Admissions are subject to availability. If no availability, we replace with like for like experiences.
Balmoral and Royal Deeside Shore Excursion from Aberdeen
Start your day at the Port of Aberdeen, for a journey filled with breathtaking views and captivating stops. Your first destination is the stunning Falls of Feugh, just a short drive away. Stretch your legs and take in the natural beauty of the cascading waters, with a chance to spot salmon swimming upstream, adding to the magical scenery. Next, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Balmoral Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Wander the castle grounds at your own pace, enjoy a delightful lunch at the Balmoral Café, and dive into the royal history of this majestic residence. From the tranquil gardens to the elegant interiors, Balmoral offers a truly royal experience. Then, head to Ballater, a charming Victorian village nestled in the Cairngorms National Park. Explore quaint streets, browse local shops for handmade crafts, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. End your day with a scenic drive back to Aberdeen, reflecting on the beauty and history you’ve experienced
Dundee: coolest city in Scotland or sink of humanity? On this self-guided GPS audio tour, you decide for yourself as I take you beyond Dundee's main tourist attractions. During the tour, you'll encounter a heroic pigeon, James Bond's grandfather and the world's worst poet. You'll learn why Winston Churchill vowed never to return here and how to survive when in the Arctic. The tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Dundee as well as those who want to learn more about their city - such as by finding out how Dundee came to own the largest cut emerald in existence. This audio tour takes you on a 3km walk around the many sights of Dundee, as well as the hidden corners. It takes just over an hour without stopping but you can pause the tour whenever you choose. The audio plays automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smart phone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline.