History

No other country celebrates New Year quite like Scotland. Hogmanay, the Scottish term for New Year’s Eve, is a time of spectacular festivities, ancient traditions, and a sense of camaraderie that stretches across the land. Whether you’re keen to join in the street parties, marvel at the fire festivals, or cosy up in a Highland…

Scotland, a land rich in history and legend, is often seen as a gateway to the past. Its mist-covered glens and towering castles hold not just stories of battles and kings, but also chilling tales of restless spirits. From eerie ruins to ghostly battlefields, Scotland is home to some of the most haunted places in…

As the vibrant greens of summer fade into warm, golden hues, autumn in Scotland offers a stunning backdrop for adventure. Whether you’re chasing misty mountains, wandering through ancient castles, or savouring whisky by a crackling fire, this season brings out the magic in every corner of the country. Here are the five best places to…

Scotland is home to over 1,500 castles, from ancient ruins to beautifully restored landmarks, offering glimpses into its rich past. Whether perched on dramatic cliffs, nestled in rolling hills, or guarding bustling cities, these fortresses tell tales of power, intrigue, and romance. We’ve handpicked our top 10 favourite Scottish castles to inspire your next adventure….

Nestled in the heart of Scotland, Loch Lomond is a breathtaking destination that captivates travellers worldwide. This stunning freshwater lake, surrounded by the majestic Scottish Highlands, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an thrilling adventure, Loch Lomond has something for everyone. Here, we’ll explore the rich history,…

Scotland is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Among its many attractions, seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites stand out as must-visit destinations. These sites offer a glimpse into Scotland’s rich past and its stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiration, exploring these remarkable sites…

If you’re a fan of the beloved Outlander series, you’ve likely been fascinated by the stunning landscapes, historical sites, and charming villages that serve as the backdrop for this epic tale. From the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands to the picturesque streets of Edinburgh, the world of Outlander has come to life in a…

While guides to the Isle of Skye often highlight the Quiraing, Fairy Pools, and Old Man of Storr, something you might not know is that you can see massive dinosaur footprints on Skye. This little island off the west coast of Scotland has one of the most significant collections of dinosaur tracks in the world….

Scotland is a magical destination for families, offering a variety of attractions and activities that cater to all ages. From exploring ancient castles and engaging in outdoor adventures to learning about history and enjoying local wildlife, there is something for everyone. If you are planning a family trip, here are the best 30 things to…

Inverness is the Gateway to the Highlands, a city on Scotland’s northeast coast where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth. As the largest city and cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a hub of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a…

Introduction to the Jacobite Steam Train route The Jacobite Steam Train route is a historic railway line that traverses through the stunning Scottish Highlands. This iconic route has gained worldwide fame, thanks to its appearances in the Harry Potter movies as the Hogwarts Express. The train itself is a vintage steam locomotive, which adds to…

History of Stirling Castle To truly appreciate the significance of Stirling Castle, we must first understand its remarkable history. Dating back to at least the 12th century, the castle has played a pivotal role in Scotland’s turbulent past. It was a favoured residence of the Stewart monarchs and witnessed numerous conflicts, including the Wars of…

Uncover the Hidden Gems of Lewis & Harris Lewis & Harris, a land of enchanting landscapes and rich heritage, holds many captivating secrets waiting to be discovered. Here are 20 surprising facts that will ignite your wanderlust and inspire you to explore this breath-taking destination. Scottish Gaelic Speakers: Approximately 52% of the population in Lewis…

Are you ready to embark on a captivating journey through history, enchantment, and natural splendour? Join Highland Experience Tours and let us transport you to the mesmerising world of Alnwick Castle, Howick Hall Gardens, and Barter Books. From captivating tales of Scottish and English heritage to the spellbinding allure of medieval market towns, your Scottish…

Lights, Camera, Scotland! Scotland’s breath-taking landscapes have set the stage for some of the most iconic films and TV series. With Highland Experience Tours, you can step into the cinematic world and explore the very locations that have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Discover Iconic Filming Spots Join us on a journey to the…

As the days lengthen and spring flowers begin to bloom, Scotland is gearing up for summer. However, here at Highland Experience, we bid a fond farewell to winter with a touch of sadness.  The winter months in Scotland offer much to appreciate, often overlooked by many. The stunning landscape, though different, retains its stunning allure…

As we commemorate Women’s History Month in March 2024, we take the opportunity to honour the remarkable contributions and legacies of Scottish queens and famous women who have significantly impacted history. At Highland Experience Tours, our itineraries are intricately woven with the rich tapestry of Scotland’s historical landmarks, many of which are connected to influential…

Scotland is a land steeped in history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Among the most fascinating pre-historic sites in Scotland are the Callanish Standing Stones and the Carloway Broch, both located on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. These sites are a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient…

Scotland is known for its breath-taking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. But did you know that it is also home to some of the most enchanting love stories in the world? From epic romances to tragic tales, Scotland has captured the hearts of many with its romantic escapades.   The Love Story of Robert…

Dunfermline Abbey, or Abbot House, as it is also known, is a fascinating historical site located in Dunfermline, Scotland. Steeped in rich history and architectural beauty, this abbey holds immense significance in Scottish history and is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.   History of Dunfermline Abbey The history of Dunfermline Abbey dates back to…

Introduction to The Vaults in Edinburgh Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is renowned for its rich history and captivating architecture. Nestled beneath the bustling streets are the historic Vaults of Edinburgh. These chambers were once full of life, but over time, they fell into disrepair and were forgotten. Today, they stand as a testament…

When booking our Orkney Tours in 2024 our trips will now include entrance into Skara Brae, Maes Howe, Ring O’Brodgar at no extra cost! Discover the history behind these attractions before booking your next adventure with us.   Skara Brae Nestled along the rugged coastline of Scotland’s Orkney Islands, Skara Brae stands as a testament…

A Traveller’s Guide to Unexplored Delights St Andrews, located on the east coast of Scotland, is a charming town renowned for its rich golfing history, prestigious university, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Steeped in tradition and dating back to medieval times, St Andrews offers a range of attractions for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in its…

‍Introduction to Culloden Battlefield Culloden Battlefield, situated near Inverness in Scotland, holds great historical significance as the site of the infamous Battle of Culloden. This vast expanse of moorland witnessed a clash that forever altered the course of Scottish history. Today, Culloden Battlefield stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and lives…

Outlander. Love it or not, the boost it has given the Scottish tour industry is immense, and the number of people coming here on holiday with some knowledge of Scotland’s history has risen accordingly. It was with the greatest pleasure, therefore, I headed out on my first Outlander tour of the 2022 season. 14 lovely…

The Myth Glen Coe is probably the busiest wilderness in the world with thousands of tourists driving through. Very few people actually stop and even less take the hike up to Ossian’s Cave, mostly due to the restricted number of trails, but it is well worth the effort. Ossian’s Cave is high up on the…

Scotland is becoming more and more popular as a location in the TV and film industry due to its stunning landscapes, quaint little villages and diverse city centres. You’ll see a little bit of Scotland in the likes of James Bond’s Skyfall, Harry Potter, Mary Queen of Scots, Outlaw King, Outlander and many more! Edinburgh…

It has always been a special place for me ‘the Bonnie, Bonnie banks of Loch Lomond’ as the song goes. A good version to check out, by the way, is a version by Runrig. (A Celtic rock band from the Isle of Skye). As a small child one of our regular summer trips was to…

It is very well known that Scotland is full of dramatic natural beauty and man-made wonders which would truly take a lifetime to explore. Castles, in particular, tell their own story of Scottish History. There have been more than 2,000 castles in Scotland throughout history, so it’s been hard but we’ve chosen our top 10…

Loch Ness – the mysteries of Scotland’s most famous loch When you visit Scotland, you will have the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. From our mountain ranges to our vast lochs, there really is so much to take in. Loch vs. Lake The word Loch comes from the…

Scottish history is captured by myths and legends, tales that have inspired writers and artists for centuries. In old times, people struggled to explain the mysteries of life, so they believed very deeply in stories transmitted by word of mouth. These tales also taught moral values, lessons on how to live our lives consciously and…

We love whisky, we love it a lot. So, my aim is to spread the love and try to walk amateur whisky drinkers through everything they need to know before falling for our beloved drink. Whisky is the world’s leading alcoholic drink; it outsells every other noble spirit in the world. Scotland is the whisky…

As a proud Scot and also ex-military I am inspired by great leadership in the face of overwhelming odds, our history is long and bloodied and full of examples of heroism, and patriotism beyond question. Leadership is something taught in most establishments around the globe, but true leadership is a quality that few possess or…

There is a debate in Scotland of what our true national flower is, some would have you believe that it’s the Scottish bluebell whilst others stand firm that it’s the thistle. For me, I always go with the thistle, not just something that grows but is symbolised all over this land, looking at a thistle…

(The story so far!) During our tour of Lewis and Harris, the outermost island of the Hebrides chain, lying off the west of Scotland two and a half hours by ferry from Ullapool, we have the chance to visit a local weaver by the name of Norman MacKenzie and perhaps get a demonstration of his…