Amy S.United States
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Private tour in Edinburgh Ian A
Day Trip from Edinburgh to Scottish Borders
5.0
(5) reviews
-
8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Ian A.
5.0
Guide rating
22
Reviews
Tours delivered
30 hrs
Avg. response time
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
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Ian A.
Luxury Land Rover Adventure Where History Comes Alive!
Overview of your Edinburgh tour
Discover why the Scottish Borders is among 30 global destinations in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel Guide for 2023, and where England crashed into Scotland (and America) 400 million years ago. Uncover why King David made his capital between the Teviot and Tweed Rivers, and how his twelfth-century reforms creating burghs based on economics, politics and religion changed Scotland forever. Hunt for Scotland's lost medieval capital of Roxburgh (Rex or King's Burgh). Marvel at the greatest concentration of abbeys in Scotland, once the nation's most powerful and greatest buildings, now in ruins, majestic reminders of skilled artisans after assault by English armies in the 1540s. Peace came to this battle-scarred land when the kingdoms united in 1603 and prosperity reigned. Feast on the landscape where arable agriculture producing world-record wheat yields and globally renowned livestock breeders is sustained in harmony with nature in the beautiful Tweed Valley. Lunch will be produced locally or caught wild.
Recent Reviews
Geoffrey S.United States
As a life-long Scotsman, Ian brings alive the fascinating history and culture of Scotland and the Highlands. His worldly perspective and enthusiasm draws the visitor in and makes you feel like you have spent the day with your long-time Scottish chum. Ian goes out of his way to bring you into the Scottish experience and to make you feel comfortable. The water and Scottish Shortbread were particularly appreciated. His restaurant choices were excellent and enhance the overall experience.
Delores N.United States
We had a delightful tour with Ian. He did his homework ahead of time, and was very helpful in finding places that my ancestors had been. We enjoyed his company and the scenery of places we had looked forward to visiting. It was a dream. Come, true! Thank you.
Michael R.United States
Ian was absolutely wonderful knowledgeable friendly could not have asked for a better went above and beyond
Todd S.United States
Ian led us on a wonderful tour of the Borders region of Scotland. The tour included the remnants of abbeys, ancient keeps and the Floors Castle as well as visits to a couple charming villages. Ian is extremely knowledgeable and we were entertained and educated about the history of Scotland and the Borders region. I highly recommend Ian and this tour.
Your Edinburgh tour itinerary
Leaving Edinburgh we cross the rich farmland of East Lothian, to ascend the Lammermuir Hills, following King James IV enroute to Scotland's greatest defeat at Flodden in 1513. Descending, the expanse of the Tweed valley unfolds before us and the choice of which delights to visit is yours: •ruined relics at Cessford, Hume, Roxburgh, Trimontium •medieval might of Firniehirst Castle, Smailholm Tower •captivating castles of Floors - home of the Dukes of Roxburghe, Thirlestane •architectural amazement of Abbotsford - home of Sir Walter Scott, Mellerstain •religious revelation at Dryburgh, Jedburgh, Kelso, Melrose •retail relaxation in the beautiful townscapes of Kelso, Melrose, Peebles. A native farmer's son and global traveller, I interpret the undulating unfolding landscape giving context so you can appreciate and fully enjoy. Returning to Edinburgh we cross the same southern upland geological divide as the Romans did in the first century and English King Edward II enroute his defeat at Bannockburn.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Suv
A top-spec Land Rover Discovery 5 HSE Luxury complete with in-car wifi and full a/c. This vehicle can seat six passengers in comfort, although the middle seat in the second row has less legroom. As this tour is bespoke, having a 4x4 vehicle allows me to reach sites where others fear to tread.
What's included
Other: Complementary:
- Scottish snacks + seasonal fruit selection
- still and sparking water
- tea/coffee as preferred
Private Guide
Private Transportation
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Tickets to any charging venues will be purchased in advance if required and I'll create a customized tour for your group
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
Airport: ,Cruise: ,Station: Waverley or Berwick-Upon-Tweed Railway Stations,ByGuide: As this tour is in my own vehicle, I can meet you almost anywhere - although there will be an extra charge for collection outside Edinburgh/Scottish Borders
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Day Trip
City Highlights
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
Layover
History
Tour reference number
1027952
Languages
EnglishActivity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Edinburgh best suited for?
This private tour is perfect for travellers who want to explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Scottish Borders with a knowledgeable local guide. It's ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and nature, as well as anyone looking to enjoy a luxurious and personalized travel experience. With Ian A. as your guide, you'll gain deeper insights into the region's past and present.
Can this private tour in Edinburgh be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
Is this private tour in Edinburgh suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.