Inverness Day Tours
Inverness Day Tours
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Cultural ToursDistillery ToursHistorical & Heritage ToursSightseeing ToursPrivate Tours
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About
Exclusive guided tours in 7-passenger vans throughout Scotland. Relaxed itineraries by entertaining guides crafting wonderful memories as you experience some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Pick-ups from Glasgow/Edinburgh/Aberdeen/Inverness airports or cities & elsewhere. We have travelled with authors Diana Gabaldon (Outlander), Sara Gruen (Water for Elephants) and Jodie Picoult (My Sisters Keeper). We tell you the stories behind the Outlander books and series - tales of rebellions, Jacobites, the Clans and our traditions. From a historic stroll in Inverness or Edinburgh, right up to a 10-day island odyssey – we offer it all. We can take you to iconic destinations like the Isle of Skye or lesser known treasures like the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail. Come on a scenic journey, discover the dynamic history and rich culture hidden beneath the surface, and delve into our unique folklore, legends and tales. Book on our website.
Inverness, Scotland
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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5.0
804 reviews
Excellent
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Carolyn H
Los Angeles, CA19 contributions
Nov 2019
We had the week of Thanksgiving to take a trip because of our daughter's college vacation schedule, and even though we knew that the weather would not be ideal, we chose Scotland because my daughter had 2 friends from babyhood who were studying at the University of Edinburgh, and we had never been there. Hugh at Inverness Tours was so kind to respond to my email inquiries and to take the time to help plan the perfect itinerary which involved mostly staying in and near Edinburgh, but taking day trips to see important historical sites as well as Outlander filming locations.
Our guide was the wonderful Scott Guthrie, who arrived in a kilt, and had that Glasgow accent that we adore. He drove the 3 of us around in a really comfortable mini-van, all the while regaling us with tales from Scottish history, and famous Scottish tunes on cd. He taught us some Gaelic phrases, and took us to an ancient tavern for haggis nachos, which were (surprisingly) delicious. He laughed when we squealed as Lallybroch (aka Midhope House) came into view. Scott exudes such a positive energy, and is so kind, that just being in his presence always kept our spirits up, even when we were tired. It was somewhat rainy during our tours, but our week ended with a few sunny, beautiful days, so we were very fortunate.
We travel a lot, and almost always hire local guides. We can honestly say that Scott is the best guide we have ever had. As we are now obsessed with this magical land, as evidenced by our frequent desire to wear tartans back home in Los Angeles, we definitely intend to return as soon as possible, and stay for at least 2 weeks. We will be signing up for more days with Scott and Inverness Tours -- they have our highest recommendation!
Our guide was the wonderful Scott Guthrie, who arrived in a kilt, and had that Glasgow accent that we adore. He drove the 3 of us around in a really comfortable mini-van, all the while regaling us with tales from Scottish history, and famous Scottish tunes on cd. He taught us some Gaelic phrases, and took us to an ancient tavern for haggis nachos, which were (surprisingly) delicious. He laughed when we squealed as Lallybroch (aka Midhope House) came into view. Scott exudes such a positive energy, and is so kind, that just being in his presence always kept our spirits up, even when we were tired. It was somewhat rainy during our tours, but our week ended with a few sunny, beautiful days, so we were very fortunate.
We travel a lot, and almost always hire local guides. We can honestly say that Scott is the best guide we have ever had. As we are now obsessed with this magical land, as evidenced by our frequent desire to wear tartans back home in Los Angeles, we definitely intend to return as soon as possible, and stay for at least 2 weeks. We will be signing up for more days with Scott and Inverness Tours -- they have our highest recommendation!
Written 11 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a delightful review!
Thank you so much for letting us know about your visit with us.
You were treated to the mix of weather we enjoy in Scotland, so you will know what to expect on your next tour with us.
Looking forward to welcoming you again.
Written 12 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tawnya
Cambridge, MN1 contribution
Mar 2020
I did a multi-day tour with Mark Addison last year. I've been missing travel so was looking through my photos which reminded me of that trip. With lots of time on my hands I thought I should write a review to share my experience. Our adventure took us to Orkney, Harris, Lewis and Skye. We could have done the tour on our own but having Mark along took the trip to an entirely different level. He knew the history of the areas we visited, his wit, sense of humor and general camaraderie were fun and he is an amazing driver which took any worries about navigating off our plate. Something I really appreciated with all of the single track roads and multiple ferry crossings! I will never forget seeing him in a Viking hat at Skara Brae! With his beard it suited him well! Thanks for the great memories Mark!
Written 29 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking time to let us know about your great tour and the great memories too.
It was a very special tour and we were delighted Mark was available for you.
Hope we will see you back in the Highlands soon.
Written 26 January 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Deb H
2 contributions
May 2022
The best adventures never really end and we left Scotland with wonderful memories and a longing to return, thanks to Inverness Tours and two of their remarkable guides Hugh and Dave. The passion and knowledge both have of their country is only matched by their kindness and good humor. They are prepared and ready with contingencies should the need arise, ensuring we experienced the bountiful wonders of the land and people we encountered in our travels. Our 5-day tour with Hugh was a combined Outlander/Clan tour. It didn't matter that 2 of us were fans and 1 did not know about the show. Hugh's itinerary was enjoyed by all, especially his stories and sharing his favorite music and bands. We loved the mini-adventures, veering off the path! Then we continued our travels with Dave, who showed us the beautiful sites of the Isle of Skye and regaled us with stories about the fairies and other folklore. Like Hugh, he is a gifted storyteller. Hugh and Dave are true gentlemen. We are so grateful to them for such a fabulous Adventure!
Written 19 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so grateful to you for your fabulous review too.
We are all about the stories and creating memories, so glad you enjoyed the whole adventure with us.
Written 14 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
spicegrrl
California124 contributions
Sept 2022
Dave Fyfe of Inverness Tours was absolutely the #1 best thing about our 3 week trip to the UK. My group of seven friends (three couples and a single) spent six full days with Dave touring Scottish historical sites, mostly Outlander filming locations but not entirely. He customized our tour based on our interests, eagerly getting to know us so as to make exactly the right choices. We loved all the sites and the fascinating information he shared - he is great storyteller. But honestly it was Dave himself that really made us happy. He is an absolute treasure of a man. Deep knowledge, warm personality, a passion for learning, genuine interest in others, and above all, a huge, huge heart. Accomplished, yet humble. Articulate, yet knows when to be quiet so we could rest. Dave went above and beyond to give us the trip of our dreams - including assisting with initial preparations MONTHS before our arrival. He provided logistical support as well. For example, he helped us grocery shop for our self-catered stay in a remote Highlands house, he helped us celebrate a 60th birthday by procuring a custom cake and delivering it to the restaurant, and he even arranged our ground transpo to Inverness airport. Anything that was easier for him to do than for us, he was happy to do. Dave was just way beyond what we expected and we will never forget him. If there is an award for Scottish tour guides, he should be nominated because he really puts a great face on Scotland!
Written 10 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your kind words about Dave Fyfe! We're so glad he was able to give you the trip of your dreams and help make your time in Scotland so special. We'll be sure to pass along your compliments.
Written 3 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kristian S
4 contributions
May 2023 • Friends
Planning and booking a trip for our best friends and us for our wedding renewal after 20 years of marriage allowed me to build an enormous amount of excitement prior to even arriving in Inverness. However, being fortunate enough to have booked Hugh for 2 one-day tours (Whisky for the men and Outlander and Jamie Fraser for the girls) blew my expectations out of the water. To get a tour guide with a great attitude is good. To get one who knows so so much of thr culture, history, geography, and the Scotch is great. But, to get one with all of that plus so much passion and Scotish Highland pride, like Hugh, is wonderful. My group and I were sad that there wasn't a 3rd day with Hugh. I learned so much that I will not ever forget purely because of Hugh's story telling ability. Truely an experience I will not soon forget. I don't mean to make Hugh feel old, but, as a group of 30 and 40 year olds, we felt like we spent precious time with a father who was eager to teach his children everything he knew about the Highlands. I was also amazed to see folks who were visiting some of the historic sites on there own gravitate toward our group to catch what Hugh was saying. Only after Hugh would ask if we were ok with the new additions to the group would we warmly accept themonly hope we make it back soon to experience more with Hugh. A+++
Written 28 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael S
2 contributions
May 2022 • Couples
We had the pleasure of having Dave as our tour guide for two days while on holiday in Scotland recently. In all honesty, it felt like being with an old friend driving around for two days! Dave is deeply knowledgeable on Scotland’s history and lore. He’s affable, funny, personable, well-read and well traveled. When he wasn’t educating us on the land and history, we were swapping jokes and telling stories about ourselves (his were much more interesting than ours). He pointed out the great photo spots and even took a few selfies with us!
One of the sites Dave took us to was Clava Cairns. He explained the history of the site and its ties to the Outlander stories. He brought his divining rods out and had us feel for ourselves the magical energy of the location. Deep stuff that you don’t commonly find in a travel book.
For the latter part of our Scotland adventure, we had rented a car. We never drove in the UK before and asked Dave for some advice. He gave us information beyond what you’d find in driving books, such as understanding the road numbering system and the unspoken courtesy of driving on the really narrow roads. With his help, we had no problems driving around Scotland.
For anyone that plans to visit The Highlands, booking with Inverness Tours is a no-brainer. It’s a great, high-quality service. Dave is a wonderful tour guide that we would gladly recommend to anyone!
One of the sites Dave took us to was Clava Cairns. He explained the history of the site and its ties to the Outlander stories. He brought his divining rods out and had us feel for ourselves the magical energy of the location. Deep stuff that you don’t commonly find in a travel book.
For the latter part of our Scotland adventure, we had rented a car. We never drove in the UK before and asked Dave for some advice. He gave us information beyond what you’d find in driving books, such as understanding the road numbering system and the unspoken courtesy of driving on the really narrow roads. With his help, we had no problems driving around Scotland.
For anyone that plans to visit The Highlands, booking with Inverness Tours is a no-brainer. It’s a great, high-quality service. Dave is a wonderful tour guide that we would gladly recommend to anyone!
Written 1 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for letting us know how much your time with Dave was enjoyed.
Thank you for your recommendation too.
Written 14 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ross F
2 contributions
May 2022
Hugh Allison put together an exceptional personalized day trip package for us, based on ancestry records information we provided, that explored our McIntosh heritage in Inverness-shire.
Our meander through the Highlands was a priceless experience and we are grateful for the memorable experience that our guide Raymond Finlayson provided.
The day was very well planned out. For our first day ever in Scotland Raymond presented a perfect historical foundation from which we were able to evolve our understanding of the Highlands and its earlier people (including Clan McIntosh/Mackintosh and others).
Our first stop at Rait Castle was an enormous rush! To envision some far reaching link to our heritage associated with that 15th century location and to imagine the dinner scenario involving the planned McIntosh slaughter of which I’d read was unbelievable. Raymond provided a vivid account of what life might have been like in the castle at the height of its occupancy.
The castle, Culloden Battlefield, Petty Kirk, Moy Hall, Dunlichity Kirk, Drumnadrochit, Glen Urquhart and every other destination throughout the rest of the day surpassed any expectations we may have arrived with. Raymond's extensive knowledge of the history and lore combined with a commanding ability to easily and pleasantly relate that knowledge created the perfect day for us. The day was as much fun as it was instructive and enlightening.
We can’t thank Raymond and Inverness Tours enough or offer enough praise for creating this intimate window into our ancestors' birth, death and living areas and having discussions on what some of the prevailing lifestyles and life pressures may have been in the late 18th and early 19th century.
Our meander through the Highlands was a priceless experience and we are grateful for the memorable experience that our guide Raymond Finlayson provided.
The day was very well planned out. For our first day ever in Scotland Raymond presented a perfect historical foundation from which we were able to evolve our understanding of the Highlands and its earlier people (including Clan McIntosh/Mackintosh and others).
Our first stop at Rait Castle was an enormous rush! To envision some far reaching link to our heritage associated with that 15th century location and to imagine the dinner scenario involving the planned McIntosh slaughter of which I’d read was unbelievable. Raymond provided a vivid account of what life might have been like in the castle at the height of its occupancy.
The castle, Culloden Battlefield, Petty Kirk, Moy Hall, Dunlichity Kirk, Drumnadrochit, Glen Urquhart and every other destination throughout the rest of the day surpassed any expectations we may have arrived with. Raymond's extensive knowledge of the history and lore combined with a commanding ability to easily and pleasantly relate that knowledge created the perfect day for us. The day was as much fun as it was instructive and enlightening.
We can’t thank Raymond and Inverness Tours enough or offer enough praise for creating this intimate window into our ancestors' birth, death and living areas and having discussions on what some of the prevailing lifestyles and life pressures may have been in the late 18th and early 19th century.
Written 20 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking time to post this great review.
It was our pleasure to craft and give you a special tour.
Written 14 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sarah M
2 contributions
Sept 2021
We just completed an Outlander Immersion tour with Scott and he was absolutely fantastic! I generally like to plan out vacations myself, but this trip really changed my mind about guided tours. Scott was full of knowledge regarding Scottish history. The tour had a full itinerary, but we never felt rushed at any of the sites and truly enjoyed ourselves. I will definitely be looking into other tours offered for future visits!
Written 16 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are very pleased that you enjoyed your time with us so much. It's a two-way process - we always enjoy the prospect of getting out and enjoying a tour too. The beauty of private touring is that the days can be adjusted, on the go, to best accommodate your individual enthusiasms. It puts you in control of the timings and itinerary (within the strictures of time and distance of course!)
Thank you for taking the time to put in your lovely review, and we look forward to seeing you again.
Written 19 September 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nicole R
1 contribution
Jun 2023 • Family
My mom, SIL, and I booked a day long Outlander Tour with Inverness Tours. Dave Fyfe picked us up and took us on one of our favorite days of our two-week trip! I cannot say enough great things about Dave — he was funny, easy to chat and get along with, and full of great stories and facts. He went above and beyond to make sure we saw and did everything we wanted in our limited time and also recommended things to do and see ant other stopping points along our trip! If you book a trip with Dave, you will not be disappointed!
Written 23 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
joeo450
fincastle3 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Our family of 11 had an absolutely fabulous day with Ian in the Inverness and Loch Ness area in November. With a wide range of ages, including grandparents, adult children, teenagers and little boys, we all had a very memorable experience. Ian was so personable and tremendously well informed about the history and natural environments that we visited. He had stepped in at the last moment due to another guides health issue and yet handled the day superbly. I would recommend Inverness Tours and its guides to any group able to spend a day or more in the Inverness area. Our family all agree to the sentiments expressed at the end of our tour by my 5 year old grandson, Essex, "I love Ian."
Written 19 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My wife and I are interested in doing a tour in and around Inverness. We have been enjoying Outlander and would like a secondary focus to be to this end but our primary interest is to visit sites pertinent to Cromarty and Urquhart as I believe this to be my genealogical roots. Also, pursuing this interest, should we also plan on visiting the Orkney Islands?
We are tentatively planning a spring of 2020 trip and are wondering about the advisability of this timing due to weather and other conditions. Our dates are entirely flexible at this time. We will also be visiting Italy and Switzerland while in Europe.
Warren & Linda Cromarty
Written 23 August 2019
We would love to tour with you and can put together a great itinerary. Spring in Scotland is our best weather often.
You can email us through the website. The website is called invernesstours, not Inverness Day Tours
We do have guide availability around that date.
Written 24 August 2019
I am from India and would be visiting scotland in July.Can I have email id Of Hugh or contact number?
Written 26 May 2018
Hello,
Tripadvisor do not permit me telling you my email address directly - even if you have asked for it.
So I will tell you this - +44 7743 473081
Written 26 May 2018
My husband, son, and I would like to spend a day touring a few Speyside distilleries. What are your recommendations for the best ones? What's the optimal amount for one day? What tour can you recommend for us? May I book a tour now? Finally, where should I book a hotel/B&B that would be most convenient and lovely?
I hope I haven't killed you with too many questions!
Oh, and we're looking at around 11 July.
Thanks!
Written 11 April 2018
Glenfiddich, Glen Grant, Cardhu and maybe the Cooperage if there is time. You could stay in Inverness or Nairn. We do have a Speyside distillery tour. Its on our website. You can also email me
through the website. The website is called invernesstours, not Inverness Day Tours
We do have guide availability around that date.
Written 12 April 2018
Hi
I'll be in Inverness October 25&26 and would like to go to Loch Ness and Culloden. I understand the day trip to John O'Groats doesn't run at that time.
Can you make any recommendations?
Thanks
Written 29 July 2017
We could take you on the tour of your choice (from our website) on 25th October.
On 26th October all we have available are 3 seats on an Outlander tour. £105 per seat.
Written 30 July 2017
My husband and I will be in Inverness this July 4th and 5th. Would love a day tour of the area - Culloden Battlefield, distillery......anything Outlander or historical.....
Written 3 May 2017
Hello, Thank you for contacting us.
We would love to tour with you.
We have a guide with availability on 4th July, and our one day Outlander Tour certainly includes Culloden Battlefield, a distillery, Beauly, and Clava Stone Circles along with more.
The website has a link on the Tripadvisor page - why not have a look.
Written 3 May 2017
Yes you can. We usually do it as a four day - so that the pace is a bit more relaxed, and there is time to make many photostops and visits each day. The average miles covered each day is about 129. On a three day there would still be time to see things and enjoy visits. There would just be an obvious increase in pace, as the average miles covered each day would be about 172. Have a look on our website - link on tripadvisor - and email us - the price would of course be approx 75% of the price of the four-day.
Written 2 April 2017
lisaadams678
Lucasville, Ohio
How much do your tours cost for 2 people we will becoming to Scotland in october
Written 26 January 2017
Hugely variable. Our most economical tour is our shortest at £150.
Our longest has so far been 10 days. That was around £3300.
Using our share-a-tour plan would drop costs yet more - to the point where a tour could be free of charge. If you want to discuss this further then email us.
We wait to hear more about your position and we will be able to give you all the info you need.
I know this sounds weird - but TripAdvisor does not permit the use of a website link in this answer - although we have a website link on our tripadvisor page.
Written 26 January 2017
My daughter and I are interested in a 4-5 day tour of all Outlander film sites for May 2017 from Edinburgh. Do you have anything that fits the bill?
Thanks,
Janet Hinckley
Written 28 August 2016
Hello Janet,
I am delighted to say that yes we do.
The detail is all on the website, but Tripadvisor have posting guidelines which do not allow me to tell you my email, or my website.
A 4-day film sites tour would be approximately £1400 total plus guide lodgings allowance.
Would you also want to see some related places like Culloden Battlefield, while you were here?
You will get our contact details on the website.
You will get the website on Inverness Day Tours Tripadvisor page.
Best Regards
Hugh Allison
Written 29 August 2016
We went on one, guided by George Munro last year and it was absolutely wonderful. Top rated all around.
Written 27 March 2017
Is the setting for crag na dun (outlander) part of your tour if so what areas do you cover we are staying in aviemore and Lochgoilhead what are the duration of such tours?
Written 11 June 2016
Hello, Craigh na Dun film location is sufficiently remote that it is not included in either of our one-day Outlander Tours out of Inverness. It is, however, included in the 7-day Outlander Immersion Tour which we lead.
Written 12 June 2016
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