McKinlay Kidd began in Scotland and our local team based in the nation’s largest city still curate personalised itineraries that are at the heart of our ethos of seeing Scotland differently.

Our 20+ years of experience mean that however you choose to see this ancient and beautiful land, be it on an independent rail tour, self-drive adventure or as part of a small group of like-minded travellers with one of our tour leaders, you will be in the best possible hands. Our accommodation is hand-picked by our local team and in most cases, we have been working with our portfolio of mostly small hotels, family-owned guest houses and B&Bs for many years and supporting each other through the ups and downs.

Rail Holidays and Train Tours

Experience Scotland from the comfort of its iconic railways, where every journey is part of the adventure. Glide past lochs, mountains, and dramatic coastlines as you connect historic cities with breathtaking Highland landscapes. Rail holidays in Scotland offer a relaxed, scenic, and sustainable way to explore the country’s rich culture and natural beauty with jaw-dropping sights such as Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Glenfinnan Viaduct all visible from the train. or perhaps  on a slightly shorter, week-long circular rail tour.

Self-guided Scottish Rail Holiday Ideas

Road Trips

Hit the open road and discover Scotland at your own pace on a self-drive road trip holiday. From winding coastal routes and mountain passes to hidden glens and historic villages, every turn reveals a new story waiting to be explored. Enjoy the freedom to stop where you like, linger longer, and uncover places beyond the guidebooks. Choose an iconic routes such as the North Coast 500 or the lesser-known West Coast 500. If you have a specific route in mine, let us plan you a bespoke itinerary, taking in some of our favourite touring routes. Start your Scottish road trip today and let the journey be just as memorable as the destination.

Self-guided Scottish Road Trip Ideas

Scottish Island Hopping

Discover the magic of island-hopping holidays in Scotland, where rugged coastlines, turquoise waters, and warm island hospitality await at every stop. From the Hebrides to Orkney and Shetland, each island offers its own blend of wild beauty, rich history, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Slow down, breathe in the sea air, and experience Scotland at its most authentic—one island at a time. Whether you prefer a self-drive getaway or a car-free adventure, we will plan your island holiday and let the journey shape your story.

Scottish Island Hopping Ideas

Small Group Escorted Tours

Explore Scotland in good company on a small group escorted rail or island tour, where our expert guides bring landscapes, history, and local stories vividly to life. Travel together through dramatic Highlands, charming villages, and iconic landmarks, enjoying a relaxed pace and the ease of having every detail taken care of. With fewer people and more personal experiences, these tours offer a deeper connection to Scotland and its culture. Join a small group of like-minded travellers and discover Scotland with insight, comfort, and camaraderie.

Scottish Escorted Tours Ideas

Where can you go in Scotland?

– Highlands & Skye

Venture into the heart of Scotland with a journey through the Highlands and the Isle of Skye, where dramatic mountains, misty lochs, and windswept coastlines create a landscape like no other. Hike ancient trails, encounter native wildlife, and soak in breathtaking views at every turn, from the jagged peaks of the Cuillin to the serene waters of Loch Ness. Rich in history, legend, and local culture, this region invites you to slow down, explore, and let the wild beauty of Scotland leave a lasting impression.

– Orkney & Shetland

Step into the far north and discover the unique charm of Orkney and Shetland, where wild, windswept coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and rich history meet a vibrant Nordic local culture quite different from elsewhere in Scotland. Explore ancient Neolithic sites, traditional crofting communities, and thriving wildlife—from puffins to seals—across these remote island groups. With their striking landscapes and stories shaped by the sea, Orkney and Shetland offer an unforgettable journey into Scotland’s wild and captivating Northern Isles.

– Outer Hebrides

Discover the serene beauty of the Outer Hebrides, where white sandy beaches meet turquoise seas and ancient landscapes tell stories of a timeless way of life. From the rugged cliffs of Lewis to the peaceful machair of Barra, each island offers unique wildlife, rich Gaelic culture, and a sense of tranquillity that feels worlds away. Perfect for walking, wildlife watching, or simply unwinding, the Outer Hebrides invite you to experience Scotland’s wild, windswept charm at its most unforgettable.

– Inner Hebrides

Explore the enchanting Inner Hebrides, where hidden coves, charming villages, and rugged landscapes create a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Islands like Mull, Iona, and Islay offer dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich history—from ancient monasteries to world-famous whisky distilleries. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply soaking in the tranquil island atmosphere, the Inner Hebrides promise an unforgettable escape into Scotland’s natural and cultural treasures.

– The Lowlands

Experience the charm and diversity of the Scottish Lowlands, where rolling hills, historic towns, and scenic rivers create a landscape full of discovery. Wander through vibrant cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, explore quaint villages, ancient castles or enjoy outdoor adventures in the Borders and Dumfries & Galloway. Rich in culture, history, and local flavours, the Lowlands offer a perfect mix of history, relaxation and exploration for every type of traveller.

When’s the best time to visit Scotland?

Each season in Scotland brings its own character, colour and charm. The weather can be very unpredictable throughout the year, it’s not uncommon to experience bright sunshine, showers of rain and fierce gusts of winds all within the same day. With that being said, the below is a general guide of what to expect for each season.

– Spring (March – May):

Scotland comes alive in spring with fresh colour, longer days and daytime temperatures that typically range from 7-15°C (45–59°F). These months bring cool, crisp mornings and mild afternoons with a lively mix of sunshine and short showers. Attractions and places of interest begin to open in April, ready for the for the tourism season ahead.

– Summer (June – August):

From June to August, daylight stretches late into the evening, offering long, lingering hours to explore everything from rugged coastlines to lively city streets. Temperatures typically sit between 15-22°C (59–71.6°F), creating a warm yet pleasant temperature that’s perfect for being outdoors. The UK’s vibrant events calendar is in full swing, iconic Scottish events such as the Highland Games, Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo and the Edinburgh fringe bring a distinctive buzz across the country.

– Autumn (September – October):

– Winter (November – February):

Winter reveals a completely different kind of beauty – dramatic, atmospheric, and quietly enchanting. Daytime temperatures generally range from 0-7°C (32-45°F). Frosty mornings fade into clear, crisp days and quite often, spectacular sunsets. Cities glow with festive lights and cosy pubs become the perfect refuge after a day of exploring

What’s the best way to travel to Scotland?

We can help with booking or recommending inbound travel routes from other parts of the UK.

– Major Scottish airports:

• Edinburgh (Scotland’s main airport), Glasgow (a major hub with frequent flights from London, Belfast and Dublin) Aberdeen (strong links with northern England, and London) and Inverness Airport (connections from London, Manchester, and Dublin).

– Main Ferry routes:

• Ireland: Belfast to Cairnryan
• Northern Ireland: Larne to Cairnryan

– Key Train Routes:

• London to Edinburgh/Glasgow
• Manchester/Birmingham to Glasgow/Edinburgh
• Newcastle to Edinburgh