MEET THE TEAM

Tour Guide

WATCH VIDEOS OF JIM IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

It’s the unique combination of the people, the scenery and the history for me!

What do you like most about being a tour guide?

I love showing my guests our rugged and wild landscapes. There truly is not better feeling in the world than when on tour and you hear a chorus of “WOW’s” from the guests in the van.

What makes a great trip in your opinion?

A great trip is all about passing on my passion for our landscape, culture and history. For me, creating an informal, friendly atmosphere is key where everyone has a laugh and great banter.

You can find Jim on tours like:

Isle of Skye 3 Day Tour, 5-day Tour & 7-Day Tour

Tour Guide

WATCH VIDEOS OF ANDREW IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

I love the people - some hard exteriors and can be a bit rough around the edges but they will always try and help out out and a friend from Scotland is a friend for life.

Why did you become a tour guide?

I’m passionate about Scotland and love showing off my beautiful country to others so when the opportunity arose to join Experience Scotland’s Wild, I jumped at it.

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

Well, I’d say like baking a cake you need a few ingredients. Great locations, great people and great BANTER!

You can find Andrew leading tours like:

Isle of Skye 3-day tour

Tour Guide

What’s the most breathtaking spot you’ve visited in Scotland?

I love anywhere where the mountains meet the sea so I have a massive soft spot for the western isles, particularly Skye and the Isle of Arran.

What’s a piece of Scottish history or folklore that you can’t wait to share with visitors?

I am obsessed with Scottish folklore and I can’t wait to share stories of the different creatures roaming our seas and lochs and maybe even about an elusive dwarf said to hoard some precious treasure amongst the peaks of Glencoe!

What’s your favourite season to experience Scotland in, and why?

I actually love Scotland in the winter because the rugged terrain takes on a whole new level of atmosphere and feeling in the snow. I find stories are also best told when everyone is huddled around a fire trying to escape the cold, maybe even with a dram or two in hand.

You can find Rachel leading tours like:

Ancient History & West Highland Castles - 1 day tour

Tour Guide

What do you love most about Scotland?

I love the variety of scenery throughout the land. In different parts of the country you’ve got stunning mountains and in other areas there are beautiful beaches & lochs - there’s always something to see!

How would you describe Scotland to an alien?

I’d describe Scotland as bonnie but cold! I’d talk about the beauty of the landscape but ultimately tell them they would have to see it for themselves to get the full impact of the country!

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

I think it’s a good combination of landscapes, Scottish history, and its friendly natives. If you’ve got a positive memory at the end of it all then you know you’ve had a great trip!

You can find Catriona leading tours like:

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk, Whisky Distillery & Kelpies Tour

Tour Guide

WATCH VIDEOS OF KAREN IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

It’s rugged, stunning scenery which compliments its rich history. Both convey the sense of resilience and unique beauty of Scotland.

What’s your favourite fact about Scotland?

That I live here! Also that the unicorn is the official animal and that there are approx. 790 islands in Scotland. I’ve been to 25 and counting, so I have many more to explore!

What makes a trip great in your opinion?

An adventurous spirit and openness to what a place has to show you. Scotland has endless experiences and stories to share - new and wondrous every time. No two days or places are ever the same. And, there’s a whisky for every mood!

You can find Karen leading tours like:

Orkney Island 5-day Tour

Tour Guide

What do you love most about Scotland?

The lochs, the mountains, beaches and, of course, the people!

Why did you want to become a tour guide?

Seeing peoples faces light up when you show them what Scotland has to offer… it’s priceless. My favourite thing in the world!

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

Lots of story-telling, laughter and a cracking sunset at some point - if the weather allows, of course!

You can find Lauren leading tours like:

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk, Whisky Distillery & Kelpies Tour

Isle of Skye & Highlands of Scotland 3-Day Tour

Outlander’s Castle Leoch (Doune Castle), Loch Lomond & Historic Village Day Tour

Tour Guide

WATCH VIDEOS OF DEREK IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

It’s mountain peaks and its wild Western Isles including the Outer Hebrides.

Why did you become a tour guide?

It gave me that chance to explore my home and share those experiences with incredible people.

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

The remoteness of the Highlands and the people you share those experiences with.

You can find Derek leading tours like:

Glencoe, Waterfalls Walk & Highlands of Scotland Tour

Bespoke Scotland Private Tours

Tour Guide

WATCH VIDEOS OF AILSA IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

It’s hard to narrow it down to just one thing. I love everything about Scotland. Our people, our history, but especially our Highlands. There is truly no better feeling than being surrounded by our beautiful scenery!

What do you love most about being a tour guide?

I love showing off my country and sharing our stories with those who are fascinated by them.

What makes a great trip in your opinion?

Getting out of the city and right into nature - that alongside a passionate guide!

You can find Ailsa leading tours like:

3-day Isle of Skye Tour

Tour Guide

WATCH VIDEOS OF JAMES IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

I love the friendliness of the people and the banter.

How would you describe Scotland to an alien?

Lots of sheep, hills, lochs and whisky!

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

What makes a great trip is just letting go. Getting out of the hustle and bustle of the cities and being at one with nature regardless of the weather.

You can find James leading tours like:

Orkney Island 5-day Tour

Isle of Skye, Standing Stones & Glencoe 5-Day Tour

Tour Guide

Why did you become a Scottish tour guide?

I became a tour guide for the chance to work in a unique job as well as the opportunity to help others enjoy some of the amazing sights and experiences that our beautiful country has to offer!

If you had to recommend one must-visit place in Scotland, where would it be?

My recommendation would have to be The Isle of Arran on the West coast. For a relatively small island it has a lot to experience such as castles, sandy beaches, amazing mountains, standing stones, great food and whisky distilleries! It really has it all and is known as Scotland in miniature!

What’s your favourite Scottish myth or legend?

It would have to be The Blue Men of the Minch, said to inhabit the waters between the Outer Hebrides and mainland Scotland, known for their ability to stir up storms and wreck ships.

Tour Guide

What do you love most about Scotland?

What I love most about Scotland is the unique energy that surrounds you, drawing you in and inspiring you to explore more of the country.

What do you like most about being a tour guide?

I love the opportunity to take people on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of a country I hold dear. It's not just about showing them the beautiful places, it's also about sharing stories and creating unforgettable experiences while making connections with people from all corners of the world!

What makes a trip great in your opinion?

It's the blend of learning new things and discovering places that stir deep emotions in you. It's about more than just the sights, it's about forming a connection with the land and the stories it holds while also building meaningful bonds with the people you meet along the way.

You can find Aila leading tours like:

St Andrews - Scenic Walk & Dunfermline Abbey Day Tour

Tour Guide

What do you love most about Scotland?

Our breathtaking, unrivalled scenery… truly, in Scotland, we have it all.

Why did you want to become a tour guide?

To give guess and clients that WOW moment that had in the Grand Canyon. I love guiding people to just let the experience speak for itself.

What makes a great trip, in your opinion?

A combination of things; the well told history, the weather (whether moody or sun shining) and the scenery - it doesn’t get better than the Highland of Scotland!

You can find Richie leading tours like:

Lewis & Harris 5-day Tour

Isle of Skye, Hebrides & Inverness 7-Day Tour

Tour Guide

What’s a place in Scotland you’re most excited to guide people through?

Glencoe! A magical place where nature and history combine to take your breath away.

What’s one Scottish historical event or story that fascinates you?

If one person alone sums up the drama, the romance and the tragedy of Scotlands history, it surely must be Mary Queen of Scots.

What’s an underrated Scottish location that you think more people should visit?

Dunfermline Abbey which played such a big part in Scotlands history between from the early 11 hundreds through to the Scottish Reformation in 1560.

Scotland Travel Expert

WATCH VIDEOS OF KIRSTIE IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

I love the people (most of them) I think we are some of the most friendliest people in the world.

Why would you bring someone to Scotland?

I would bring someone to Scotland to show them the hidden gems - The Highlands, the beaches and the beautiful villages.

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

Scenic drives, quirky accommodation, water activities, hikes and of course the company!

Marketing Manager

WATCH VIDEOS OF JORDAN IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

The wild rugged beauty of the place, of course! Scotland is just endlessly surprising, too. There’s always somewhere new and incredible to explore.

Why would you bring someone to Scotland?

So that they could also fall in love with the place!

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

The people you are with, 100%, and there are no better people than the Scots! I may be a wee bit biased there though…

Founder

WATCH VIDEOS OF JOHN IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

I love the people of our great country! We’re so welcoming, friendly & just want everyone to have a great time!

Why did you become a tour guide?

I wanted visitors to Scotland to have the best experience possible as they explore. I thought I’d be able to create a better experience than the generic tours which were being provided.

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

It’s a mix of the people you share it with, the experiences you create, the landscape, the laughs and … the haggis.

Tour Guide

What’s one Scottish site or landmark you can’t wait to show to visitors?

Skara Brae in Orkney! It's older than the pyramids and the best preserved Neolithic settlement in the world. Walking through this 5000 year old village makes history feel real, and I know everyone will be absolutely blown away.

Why did you become a tour guide?

To bring stories to life and share Scotland's incredible places - best job in the world!

What’s a Scottish tradition or festival you think everyone should experience?

A cèilidh! Traditional Scottish dancing, music, and laughter - what's not to love?

Tour Guide

What’s the Scottish landscape or view you’re most excited to show people?

My knee jerk answer has got to be Glencoe, I can't wait to see the look on folks faces in on the Loch Ness tour - it's a big big show stopper. I do have to say though, Culross is a stunning wee village on the Outlander and Film Location tour - It might not be on many people's radar so very much looking forward to sharing that wee gem!

What’s one thing about Scotland you learned in training that surprised you?

The major thing I learned while training is just how much I didn't know! For such a small country there's such a vast and vibrant history packed with incredible characters all with their own tales to tell. Pair that with the wild, weird and wonderful folk lore and you've got an absolute goldmine!

If you had to pick just one Scottish food or drink to recommend to visitors, what would it be?

Haggis. Got to do it. Even if you are Vegan or you can't do dairy get the veggie/dairy free version down you - a creamy mash potato, neeps steeped in butter and parsley and a velvety whisky Sauce on top. You can't come all the way here and not try it! Canny beat it.

Tour Coordinator

What do you love most about Scotland?

The various incredible locations around the country and, of course, the people!

Why would you bring someone to Scotland?

To show them the breathtaking landscapes that Scotland has to offer.

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

Having an open mind, enjoying the company you’re with and stopping to fully take in the incredible place you find yourself.

Tour Coordinator

What do you love most about Scotland?

I love that Scotland is steeped in incredible history and legend. Our past makes the Scots an incredibly fierce and noble people and that is something to be proud of.

Why would you bring someone to Scotland?

I’d bring someone to Scotland because there’s beauty everywhere. You’re always only a few minutes drive from some breaktaking scenes. Great castles, rolling glens, hidden walks, beautiful beaches. We have it all!

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

Seeing something new. Anything new. A man-made piece of art like the Kelpies, an ancient fort that you didn’t know existed, a traditional bakery selling all kinds of unique treats. Life is too short when you don’t aim to see something new every time you venture from home.

Content Creator

WATCH VIDEOS OF KIRSTEEN IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

I love the people and the humour here, and the scenery is pretty spectacular, too!

How would you describe Scotland to an alien?

I would say they'd probably find it quite familiar because Scotland is out of this world!

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

Good company, good food and great craic!

Tour Guide

WATCH VIDEOS OF CAL IN ACTION

What do you love most about Scotland?

I love the variation in the landscape, you can go coast to coast in a matter of hours, taking in all sorts of different scenery. Other than that the whisky is pretty exceptional, and the hospitality too.

Why did you become a tour guide?

I’ve spent my whole life being blown away by what Scotland has to offer. I now want to share that experience with people from all over the world and see their jaws drop as much as mind does still!

What makes a trip great, in your opinion?

A great trip is lots of laughs, beautiful views, great whisky, meeting new people and telling stories.

You can find Cal leading tours like:

Standing Stones & Castles Day Tour

Tour Guide

What’s a place in Scotland you’re most excited to take visitors to, and why?

I am excited about taking visitors to the 3 sisters of Glencoe. Not only is the area steeped in history, but the views are breathtaking no matter how many times you see them. The land is so huge it makes all the daily pressures of life seem insignificant. It's a happy place.

Why did you become a Scottish tour guide?

I became a tour guide because it will enable me to create happy memories for all our visitors. To be a part of a visitors experience to Scotland is a privilege.

If you had to describe Scotland in three words, what would they be?

Scotland in 3 words: Historic, Beautiful & Magical

Tour Guide

What’s one Scottish location you can’t wait to guide people around?

I can’t wait to guide people around is the Isle of Skye it’s one of my favourite locations in the world and I believe its summed up by two words ‘geology and mythology’.

Why did you become a Scotland tour guide?

I became a Scottish tour guide to showcase the best country in the world to all our wonderful clients.

What’s your favourite Scottish saying or phrase, and what does it mean?

My favourite Scottish phrase is ‘ if it’s for you it won’t go by you’ that’s our way in Scotland of saying if it’s meant to be it’s meant to be - and if not something better will come your way - a phrase I truly believe in.

Tour Guide

What’s the one Scottish landmark or location you’re most excited to guide visitors around?

That moment when the soft rolling hills of the lowlands melt away and we approach the epic, glacier-cut immense mountains of the highlands of the Cairngorm National Park. It’s another world…

Why did you become a Scottish tour guide?

Having had the rare privilege of teaching yoga and fitness in some of the most beautiful places on the planet, this is right in line as an soulful , visceral experience sharing Scotland’s stunning landscapes and beautiful spirit with the rest of the world.

If you had to plan a perfect day in Scotland, what would it include?

A forest glen walk, then around the feet of the Cairngorm mountains and then finally ending by the sea on an Hebridean island shore having a deep conversation with a pot of hot mussels in white wine sauce.

Tour Guide

What’s one Scottish destination that you’re most looking forward to guiding people through?

⁠Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye are uniquely beautiful and showcase the Scots landscape at its best.

What’s the most fascinating piece of Scottish history or folklore you’ve learned?

The history surrounding Dunfermline Abbey is astonishing, it has been integral to Scots history for over a thousand years. it has played a role in the wars of independence and the reformation and continues to serve the community to this day.

Why did you become a Scottish tour guide?

⁠Following a brilliant ten years in commercial film production I had a sudden compulsion to connect with my heritage. I left the city to commune with nature in the highlands and now I wish to share what I've learned.