Guide #54518
I have a passion for my native country and love to tell stories, especially ones that bring alive our amazing history and landscape. Putting your trip into context, linking the places we visit with those you are familiar with, and taking you back in time to experience the atmosphere in days of yore. I am a more than fully qualified Scottish Tourist Guide Association Blue Badge Guide - having grown up on a farm in the Scottish Borders tending livestock and driving tractors from a young age, I have a countryman's eye for detail and knowledge of the landscapes and an in-depth understanding of the seasonal farming processes across Scotland. As a former naval aviator in the Royal Navy, I have a professional understanding of military history and enthusiasm for explaining the historical impact and significance of key battles and political events in Scotland. As an international corporate executive and Freeman of the City of London, I have been fortunate to see much of the world and experience multiple cultures. I use my knowledge gained outside Scotland to interpret the sights, sounds and history of this ancient land to those coming to Scotland from overseas. Between professional roles, I led an international overland expedition from Perthshire to Persia in a classic Range Rover. These days I offer guests the chance to tour in the comfort of a fully air-conditioned Land Rover Discovery 5 which combines luxury with the capability to explore areas off-limits and go further than other tours, travelling closer to sights of interest and often hidden parts of Scotland. My personal philosophy is "for better understanding" and my tours are designed to ensure you leave Scotland with happy memories and a better understanding and love of this beautiful country! Scottish Tourist Guides Association - Blue Badge Tourist Guide qualified to guide throughout Scotland Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS) None
Edinburgh

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21 reviews
Ian is the absolutely BEST Scotish tour guide! So energetic, knowlegeable & fun. What a special treat that he involved his son, James! It was such a perfect day! Thanks, Ian!

Replied from Ian A.
Thank you for your feedback, which delighted both James and me :-) Yours always keen to be energetic, knowledgeable and fun ;-)
My brothers, their wives and my husband and I were blessed with 3 days of Ian's hospitality, skillful driving & vast knowledge of natural and civil history. Ian customized our tour, picking us up from the ferry terminal in Stranraer and guiding from there to Edinburgh through Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders. I wanted to learn about the history of the area from which...

Replied from Ian A.
Thank you for your kind comments and I am so pleased you all enjoyed your time in the South of Scotland. :-)
Book this tour!

Replied from Ian A.
Many thanks for your endorsement - delighted you enjoyed the tour. :-)

Ian is an absolute gem! My family and I had an unforgettable experience with him as our guide in Scotland. His knowledge covers everything from geology and history to architecture and culture, and he effortlessly shared it all in engaging and fascinating ways. Ian’s warm and personable nature made us feel like we were exploring with a friend. He didn’t just show us the...

Replied from Ian A.
Thank you for your exceptionally kind words. I am really delighted I was able to help make your visit to Scotland truly memorable :-)