Private Scottish Highlands, Castles, Glencoe Tour from Edinburgh
Description
A fully private Scottish Highlands day trip from Edinburgh — your group only, never shared, in a new 4x4 with a panoramic sunroof. No coach crowds, no fixed script: your local driver-guide Jimmy has 60 reviews, every one 5 stars. Walk the walls of mighty Stirling Castle. Hand-feed the famous hairy Highland cows at Kilmahog. Stand beneath Glencoe's Three Sisters — filming country for Skyfall, Harry Potter and Outlander. Photograph Linlithgow Palace (Outlander's Wentworth Prison) and the towering Kelpies. And between Killin and Glencoe we pull over at a secret loch the tour buses don't know — we never publish the name, they'd only follow us. Water and snacks are included all day — plus a wee dram for the road home. We pack more into one day than any other driver: castles, coos, waterfalls and Glencoe, all at your pace. Every day is customisable — your day, your Scotland. Rated 5.0 by every single guest — dates sell out fast, book early.
Tour Options
Itinerary
First stop: Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots in 1542 — and Outlander fans will know these walls as Wentworth Prison. We pause for postcard photos across the loch, swans drifting past a 500-year-old royal ruin. Think of it as the opening scene: from here your private day climbs through giant sculptures, a royal castle, hairy Highland cows and the wild glens of Glencoe. The best of Scotland is ahead — and there's no coach queue in sight.
Prepare to be awestruck by The Kelpies, Scotland's towering equine sculptures, as we pause for 20 minutes to marvel at these iconic landmarks. Rising majestically against the Scottish sky, these colossal structures capture the imagination with their mythical presence. Entry is free, so take your time to admire these magnificent creations up close and capture unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Scotland's stunning landscape.
Prepare to be transported back in time as we make a 40-minute stop at the illustrious Stirling Castle. Perched majestically atop a volcanic crag, this historic fortress has witnessed centuries of Scottish history unfold. Stirling Castle, dating back to the early 12th century, has played a pivotal role, serving as a royal residence and military stronghold. Explore its rich history, from William Wallace to the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots. Book online for £17.50, a discount from the walk-up price of £19.50, and step into the footsteps of kings and queens. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into Scotland's royal legacy.
Prepare for an extraordinary encounter as we pause for 20 minutes to meet the captivating Highland cows in Kilmahog. These majestic creatures, with their iconic shaggy coats and impressive horns, epitomize Scotland's rugged charm. During our stop, don't miss the opportunity to visit the local gift shop where entry is free and purchase a bag of feed for just £1. With treats in hand, entice the Highland cows to the fence, where they eagerly await a snack and a chance to strike a pose for your Instagram story. Indulge in this unique wildlife experience and capture memories that will last a lifetime. Don't forget your camera – you won't want to miss this incredible photo opportunity!
Prepare for a captivating break as we stop for 30 minutes at the stunning Falls of Dochart in Killin. These cascading waterfalls, steeped in Scottish folklore, promise a mesmerizing sight amidst the picturesque village. However, if the falls aren't your cup of tea, fear not! Right next to our parking spot lies a charming pub, offering a cozy retreat for those who prefer a different kind of scenery. Whether you're admiring the falls or enjoying a pint at the pub, this stop guarantees a delightful break in our journey.
Prepare for a delightful stop at the Kingshouse Hotel in Glencoe, where you can indulge in a bite to eat, savor a hot drink, or even enjoy a wee dram of whiskey. Nestled amidst Scotland's stunning landscape, this spot offers not only culinary delights but also the chance to witness the local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic deer roaming nearby as you soak in the beauty of the surroundings. The choice is yours – whether you're seeking sustenance, warmth, or a glimpse of Scotland's natural wonders, the Kingshouse Hotel has something for everyone.
Prepare to be spellbound as we pause at the famous Three Sisters in Glencoe. These towering peaks, shrouded in mist and myth, epitomize the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. During our 40-minute stop, immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and capture the moment for eternity. Whether you're snapping Instagram photos or simply taking in the panoramic views, the Three Sisters promise to leave an indelible mark on your soul. Join us as we pause at this iconic landmark, where every moment is infused with the magic of Scotland's untamed beauty.
Get ready for a brief respite at The Woodside Hotel, where we'll pause for 20 minutes. Whether you're craving a hot cup of tea, a quick snack, or just a moment to stretch your legs, this cozy stop offers a perfect opportunity to recharge before continuing our journey. Join us for a refreshing break amidst the tranquil surroundings of The Woodside Hotel.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travel in a Range Rover Vogue with panoramic sunroof, full air conditioning and heated seats for winter - deep comfortable seats no coach can match. One more reason to book private.
Reviews(64)
Our driver/guide, Jimmy, was really great! Just plan the things you want to see ahead of time so that you will have time.
Wow, wow, wow—five stars all around! Jimmy was an absolutely phenomenal tour guide and superb driver. We experienced the adventure of a lifetime in a single day thanks to his incredibly well-curated itinerary. From visiting the former home of Mary, Queen of Scots, to Stirling Castle, the majestic Kelpies, feeding Highland cows, discovering rustic waterfalls and a breathtaking ancient loch, sampling delicious Scottish salmon and cheese, enjoying an unforgettable lunch in a cozy Highland café, and ending the day surrounded by the iconic Three Sisters of Glencoe—it was pure magic from beginning to end. Every moment of the journey was filled with laughter, great conversation, snacks, drinks, stunning scenery, and unforgettable memories. Jimmy is warm, friendly, and genuinely entertaining, but what really sets him apart is his incredible knowledge of Scottish history, folklore, and culture. You can tell he truly loves Scotland, and that passion shines through in every story he tells. He also happens to be an expert photographer (an underrated but very important talent!), always knowing exactly where to capture the perfect shot. He captured me and my son in the heart of the highlands in an unforgettable lifetime photo with a rainbow! That photo will be framed and sit on my mantelpiece forever. What impressed me most however was how intuitive and thoughtful he was. We had just arrived in Scotland and were still very jet-lagged. Without me even saying much, Jimmy sensed when my son and I needed a little quiet time to rest, and he naturally gave us the space to relax. That level of kindness and awareness made the experience even more special. The drive itself was smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable, and I felt completely at ease the entire day. If you're considering booking this tour, don't hesitate. It was one of the highlights of our trip to Scotland, and I would recommend Jimmy to anyone without reservation. You won't regret it!
Hey Maggie, you've made my week with this one. That rainbow was pure luck and I'm going to take the credit for it anyway. I love the thought of that photo up on your mantelpiece — folk walking in, spotting it, and asking where on earth that was. And I'm still laughing about the pink jacket. Half the Highlands retraced, every café between here and Glencoe phoned, me absolutely certain it was under a seat in the car — and there it was, hanging up in your Airbnb the whole time. We should pitch that one to the writers of Shetland. A proper Highland case, cracked. The chat was the best part of the day though. Getting to hear your songs on the road north, and then having one of them playing out in the middle of the Highlands where it belonged — that doesn't happen every trip, and I won't forget it. And to top it all off, the deer. We'd been searching most of the day and I was starting to think it wasn't happening — then there he was, right at the end. I'm so glad you got to see that before we turned for home. You and your son were a joy to spend a day with, jet lag and all. Any time you're back in Scotland you know where I am. And next time I'll book the rainbow in advance. From your wee pal in Scotland, Jimmy
This tour was hands down one of the highlights of our trip to Scotland! Every location was stunning, but what made this experience truly unforgettable was our guide, Jimmy. His knowledge of Scottish history, culture, and local legends brought every stop to life. He shared stories with passion, humor, and genuine pride for his country. He was how genuinely invested he was in making the experience special for each guest. During our tour, he learned that I was an Outlander fan and surprised me by stopping at one of the filming locations. It was such a thoughtful gesture and made an already incredible tour even more memorable. Jimmy also knew the best photo spots and made sure everyone had time to take in the incredible scenery. The private tour experience made all the difference. Traveling in a new, clean, and very comfortable vehicle with panoramic views made the drives enjoyable, and the bottled water and snacks were a thoughtful touch. If you want an engaging, personalized experience with someone who truly loves sharing Scotland, this is the tour to book. Jimmy’s kindness, flexibility, humor, and enthusiasm made this one of the best tours we’ve ever taken. We recommend him without hesitation and would book another tour with him in a heartbeat!
Tracey, this has properly made my week — thank you. I'll let you into a secret: that Outlander stop wasn't on the plan that morning. You mentioned it in the car, I realised we were ten minutes away, and it would have been rude not to. That's the whole point of going four to a car instead of forty to a bus — the day bends around whoever's in it. Glad you enjoyed the blether as well. I'm no historian — some folk want every date and battle, others just want a good chat, a laugh and a decent coffee stop. You tell me which and I'm happy either way. And seeing as you're an Outlander fan — the boss has gone and added a new tour to the books. Three filming locations in the one day, Blackness, Culross and Falkland, then St Andrews to finish, and you can add on a clay pigeon shooting experience on a private Scottish estate if you fancy it. Built with folk like you in mind, so you've partly yourself to blame. Give my best to everyone, and haste ye back. The kettle's on and the snacks are restocked. All the best guys from your wee pal in Scotland, Jimmy.
Jimmy was a five star tour guide! We saw so many sites in the Highlands, Stirling and Linlithgow that we would not have been able to do on our own. He picked us up at our hotel in a very comfortable Range Rover that was loaded with drinks and snacks for our trip. Along the way he gave us history of the area and the sites we were going to see including The Kelpies, Stirling, Linlithgow, a waterfall and the stunning Glencoe. He even surprised the kids with a stop to feed the Highland cows along the way. We never felt rushed and enjoyed the great conversation, laughs and music playlist sharing between the stops. Thanks again so much for the great memories Jimmy! We truly appreciated your sharing the highlands beauty with us.
Thank you so much folks — what a cracking day that was! It was a real pleasure showing you round the Highlands, and I'm chuffed we packed so much in — the Kelpies, Stirling, Linlithgow, the waterfall and of course Glencoe never disappoints. The hairy coos were on their best behaviour too, especially for the kids. And credit where it's due — that playlist was all down to your two daughters! Cracking taste, the pair of them… although it sounded suspiciously like my own, so I'm fairly sure they nicked it off me when I wasn't looking. 😄 Apologies again for the wee bout of heatstroke from the day before — us Scots and the sun aren't exactly the best of pals — but I soldiered on, because Glencoe waits for no man! You were a smashing family to spend the day with. Welcome back any time, and safe travels home. From your wee pal in Scotland, Jimmy.
Private tours are often worth it, but Andy took the experience up a notch. He was personable and knowledgeable about the area and homeland he loves. We were able to experience sites off the beaten path because of Andy’s extensive experience as a regular back country hiker and mountain climber. Because it was a private tour, we could opt to make changes based on weather and personal interest. Another added bonus is how much we laughed hearing and telling stories.
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful and detailed review. Although this tour was with Andy rather than me (Jimmy), reading reviews like yours makes me incredibly proud. Andy is my most trusted guide and only steps in when I manage to take the occasional day off. He's genuinely one of those people who has an incredible passion for Scotland, and his knowledge of the Highlands, history, walking routes, and hidden gems is second to none. It's fantastic to hear that came across so clearly during your day together. I'm especially pleased that you enjoyed getting off the beaten path. That's exactly the kind of experience we always want our guests to have, and Andy's love of hiking and exploring means he knows places that many visitors never get to see. The fact that you were able to tailor the day around the weather and your interests is exactly what private touring is all about. And I'm delighted to hear there were plenty of laughs along the way too—that's just as important as the scenery! The only slight problem is that Andy is also bald... so we regularly get mistaken for each other. We like to think we're Scotland's two most handsome bald tour guides, but we'll let our guests be the judges of that! Thank you again for your incredibly kind words. They mean a great deal to both of us, and I'll make sure Andy sees your review. We'd love to welcome you back to Scotland again someday. All the best from your wee pals in Scotland Andy & JImmy.
Jimmy is knowledgeable and fun to be around. At the end of the tour, we felt like we had made a friend. He was also professional. Impecable communication, personal service, and punctuality. His relationships with security and car park attendants made our trip go smoothly. It’s obvious he enjoys his job and his enthusiasm is infectious. Request Scottish Jimmy as your driver!
Och, Jennifer, this has fair made my day! Thank you so much. Honestly, by the end of a day oot on the road past Glencoe and the castles, it never feels like work — it feels like showin' pals around the place I love. And aye, it pays to keep the security folk and car park attendants sweet… a wee blether and a smile gets you a long way in Scotland! You were a pure joy to have along, and I'm chuffed you felt like you'd made a friend, because you have. Safe travels, and if you're ever back this way you know who tae ask for. From your wee pal in Scotland, Jimmy 🏴
Our driver Jimmy the King was outstanding, very informative,had us laughing the entire trip, very friendly king. When ever we stopped he always pointed out the points of interest. We already saw some sites so he made some interesting additions to our tour which was great. I would highly recommend this tour with Jimmy the King.
Ha! "Jimmy the King" — I'll be needin' a bigger crown for the next tour, Thomas! Thank you kindly, that's a smashing review. If I had you laughin' the whole way roond then my job's done, because a good day oot is half the scenery and half the carry-on. Since you'd already seen a few of the sights, I'm dead pleased the wee extra stops and stories hit the mark — that's the fun of it, no two tours the same. It was a brilliant day with cracking company, and I'd have you back on the bus any time. Lang may yer lum reek! From your wee pal in Scotland, Jimmy.
Our original tour guide, Jimmy, had a family emergency. Even going through that he arranged for another tour guide, Andy, and contacted me to alert me to the situation. Incredible service during a stressful time for him that was greatly appreciated. We had an absolutely fabulous and memorable experience for our final day in Scotland. Definitely worth it!
Thank you so much for your kind words — it really means a lot, especially given the circumstances that day. I’m genuinely glad everything still ran smoothly and that you had such a great final day in Scotland. Andy’s a top guy — honestly, he’s basically my twin, so it’s like you had my double with you… just twice as bald, so you got extra value there! Really appreciate you taking the time to leave the review, and I’m delighted the tour lived up to it. Wishing you all the best and hopefully see you back in Scotland again someday! From your wee pal in Scotland, Jimmy.
I wish I could give Jimmy more than five stars—this was truly one of the best experiences of our trip. The day was long, but so incredibly worth it. We booked the tour last minute the night before, and Jimmy still drove all the way to Edinburgh to pick us up at our hotel with almost no notice. From start to finish, everything was seamless. We were able to see so much, yet never felt rushed and had plenty of time to explore at each stop. The drive itself flew by because Jimmy shared so much fascinating history about Scotland and was more than happy to answer every question we had about Scottish culture and the places we visited. His knowledge and storytelling made the entire experience even more special. What really set Jimmy apart was how much he went above and beyond for us. We mentioned we’d be renting a car the next day, and he took the time to teach us the rules of the road and give us incredibly helpful driving tips. He also made sure we were comfortable all day—stopping for bathrooms whenever needed, taking us to a great pub, and even surprising us with snacks, drinks, and a whiskey tasting while we explored The Three Sisters. Jimmy took such great care of us, and it honestly felt like we were traveling with a friend. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Highly, highly recommend!
Hey guys! Wow, that’s some review — you’ve made my day reading that! Delighted you had such a brilliant time, especially for a last-minute booking — turned out a cracking day for it. Glad all the stories, stops (and the wee whisky 😄) hit the mark. Hopefully the driving tips kept you right on the roads the next day — no drifting onto the wrong side! If you’re ever back in Scotland, give me a shout — plenty more to see and I’ll keep the snacks stocked. Cheers again, really appreciate you taking the time to write this! Your wee pal in Scotland, Jimmy.
I wish I could give Jimmy more than five stars—this was truly one of the best experiences of our trip. The day was long, but so incredibly worth it. We booked the tour last minute the night before, and Jimmy still drove all the way to Edinburgh to pick us up at our hotel with almost no notice. From start to finish, everything was seamless. We were able to see so much, yet never felt rushed and had plenty of time to explore at each stop. The drive itself flew by because Jimmy shared so much fascinating history about Scotland and was more than happy to answer every question we had about Scottish culture and the places we visited. His knowledge and storytelling made the entire experience even more special. What really set Jimmy apart was how much he went above and beyond for us. We mentioned we’d be renting a car the next day, and he took the time to teach us the rules of the road and give us incredibly helpful driving tips. He also made sure we were comfortable all day—stopping for bathrooms whenever needed, taking us to a great pub, and even surprising us with snacks, drinks, and a whiskey tasting while we explored The Three Sisters. Jimmy took such great care of us, and it honestly felt like we were traveling with a friend. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Highly, highly recommend!
Hey guys! Wow, that’s some review — you’ve made my day reading that! Delighted you had such a brilliant time, especially for a last-minute booking — turned out a cracking day for it. Glad all the stories, stops (and the wee whisky 😄) hit the mark. Hopefully the driving tips kept you right on the roads the next day — no drifting onto the wrong side! If you’re ever back in Scotland, give me a shout — plenty more to see and I’ll keep the snacks stocked. Cheers again, really appreciate you taking the time to write this! Your wee pal in Scotland, Jimmy.
