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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Ian was a fabulous guide and his walking tour of Edinburgh was terrific. Ian contacted us in advance to find out our interests and to let us know of the option to visit Queen Elizabeth II's private apartments at Holyroodhouse, which was a highlight of the tour. Ian was very personable and knowledgeable, and he was also very considerate of our walking abilities and pace....
Replied from the guide, Ian A.
September 2026Hi Jay, Many thanks for your kind words. I am delighted you had a great day! Yours having much enjoyed our time together, H
Ian was a terrific guide. We planned our itinerary well in advance of our one day cruise ship visit. Everything worked out well starting with him meeting us at our ship!!! Very knowledgeable and personable. Highly recommend.
Replied from the guide, Ian A.
September 2026Thanks for your thanks. I trust the rest of your cruise was as good ;-)
Ian is an excellent tourist guide and a superb human being, we had a a fantastic day with him, he learn a lot od Scottish History and enjoy a lot with his stories. He really cares about his job, excellent recommendations ang great experience!!! We were late on arriving point and he was understanding and supportive which we all appreciated a lot.
Replied from the guide, Ian A.
June 2026Evening Jose, It was a truly pleasure to guide you and your family. Yours much appreciating your kind feedback, H
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 the guide, Ian A.
February 2026Thank you for your feedback, which delighted both James and me :-) Yours always keen to be energetic, knowledgeable and fun ;-)