Top Scotland Archaeology Tours

If you’re pushed for time but still want to make the most of your trip to Orkney, then book this tour to discover its major highlights. Learn about Orkney’s neolithic history, and visit the ruins of Skara Brae, the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Yesnaby Cliffs, and much more. With round-trip transit from the Stromness Ferry Terminal—and just a guide and small group for company—you’re ensured a personal and hassle-free experience.

Discover the nature and neolithic history of the West Mainland of Orkney with this guided tour. Setting off in a group of up to eight travellers, this experience takes guests to a selection of the Scottish island’s hotspots. Ideal for those exploring the highlands for the first time and want to get a real flavor of the area.

Step off the beaten path and into the soul of Orkney. With this bespoke tours, you’re not just following an itinerary—you’re shaping an experience that reflects your passions and pace. Guided by local insight and enriched with island stories, you’ll discover breathtaking scenery, deep heritage, and unforgettable moments. Book your adventure today and let Orkney unfold through the journey you create.

A private tour that is tailored to your wants needs and wishes. To see our magnificent views of the scenery, bird and sea life as well as our iconic neolithic and bronze age monuments. If there are specific sites you wish to see that has not been mentioned please let me know so I can adjust the itinerary. If you require a lunch stop please give me plenty notice to book in advance Collection and drop offs can altered to your choice

Explore the rich heritage of Orkney on this immersive discovery tour, showcasing iconic sites such as the prehistoric village of Skara Brae and the historical Skaill House. Witness the ancient wonders of the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, then delve into the significant history of Scapa Flow. Marvel at the artistry of the Italian Chapel and the grandeur of St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, making this tour a comprehensive journey through Orkney's cultural tapestry. - Visit Skara Brae, a UNESCO World Heritage site - Discover the ancient Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness - Learn about Scapa Flow's historical significance - Explore the stunning Italian Chapel and St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall

All our tours are led by professional archaeologists who give you an insight into the past that is different from regular history tours. With a maximum of 6 participants and 2 tour guides, Your tours are intimate and engaging, allowing you to ask questions and delve deeper. We take you through the archaeological skills used to identify & record heritage sites, giving you the opportunity to ‘have a go’. With ancient maps, photos of excavations & gems of information, your tours offer something different & guarantee that you will be leaving with a lot more than you started with. By taking part you will directly support local Heritage Societies & Trusts whose sites will be front & centre of your experience, taking you further than a traditional tour ever could. As a not-for-profit organisation your support will also feed back into HARP's community outreach & educational programmes, helping more people to learn new skills & engage with archeological sites & their local heritage.

Delve into Orkney's rich history and stunning landscapes on a private guided tour of the West Mainland. This 4.5-hour adventure takes you through iconic sites like the ancient Neolithic village of Skara Brae and the breathtaking Cliffs of Yesnaby. Enjoy personalized insights from your local guide as you explore fascinating sites ranging from wartime history at Scapa Flow to the prehistoric Ring of Brodgar. Families and small groups will find this tour perfect for a customized experience that matches their pace and interests. - Private transportation in a comfortable Ford Tourneo Custom minibus - Visit highlights like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar - Flexible 4.5-hour tour with an options to extend to 6 hours - Pick-up available from anywhere in Orkney, including accommodations and ferry ports

Scotland's far-flung Orkney Islands are home to dramatic scenery, an abundance of wildlife, and fascinating historic sites—but they can feel a world away from city life. Save yourself the hassle of planning a route or wrapping your head around an itinerary with this comprehensive, 3-day tour from Inverness. Journey across the Pentland Firth to visit villages steeped in Viking mystery and landmarks such as the Lamb Holm Italian Chapel and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Standing Stones of Stenness.

With some of the richest archaeological sites in the British Isles, Shetland is a history lovers' paradise. From prehistoric settlements to tales of the Viking-era and the dowry that gifted Shetland from Norway to Scotland, our Shetland history tour will take you on a journey through millennia as we travel the length and breadth of the Shetland Mainland.

See the best of Orkney in just half a day—and have the chance to explore with an Orkney-born guide—on this private tour. Ideal for those on a shore excursion, this tour visits major historic sights, scenic landscapes, and other island attractions. This flexible tour allows you to explore at Orkney at your own pace, all while learning about the island’s culture and history.

We offer small bespoke tours. Tell us what you want to do in Shetland - eg: knitwear, golf, wildlife, Jimmy Perez, fishing, etc - and we will produce a bespoke experience that will exceed your expectations. Discover the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Shetland with a local guide tailored to your interests. Whether you’re arriving via cruise ship or by ferry, enjoy personalised half or full day tours. Experience the best of Shetland, including its unique wildlife, historical sites, and local traditions. Each tour is designed to ensure you get the most out of your visit, with convenient pick-up from your arrival point and drop-off at your accommodation or your cruise ship. - Choose from half-day or full-day tours based on your schedule - Knowledgable local experts provide insider knowledge and personalised experiences - Convenient pick-up from cruise ships, airports, or accommodations - Suitable for all interests, ensuring a memorable exploration of Shetland

My tours, including sites like the Skara Brae, Italian Chapel, Scapa Flow, Yesnaby Cliffs, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, and many more are unique for several reasons: Skara Brae is Europe's best-preserved prehistoric village, dating back over 5,000 years. Italian Chapel was built by Italian POWs during World War II, making it a symbol of hope and resilience. Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness are both part of a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Yesnaby Cliffs and Marwick Head are known for their dramatic sea cliffs, offering breath taking coastal views. Overall, these tours are unique because they offer a fascinating blend of ancient history, dramatic natural beauty, and wartime significance, all while experiencing Orkney’s exceptional landscape and wildlife.

The Southern Sights Experience offers an enriching 7-hour journey through the Scottish Highlands, exploring significant historical landmarks such as Culloden Battlefield and the ancient Clava Cairns. This excursion also includes a visit to the iconic Loch Ness, where you can enjoy the serene waters. In Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, enjoy free time to visit attractions like Inverness Castle or indulge in local hospitality. Travel is in luxury small coaches, ensuring a personal and comfortable experience, perfect for cruise passengers and history enthusiasts. - Duration: 7 hours, with a maximum of 29 guests per coach - Visit historic sites including Clava Cairns and Culloden Battlefield - Enjoy free time in Inverness for sightseeing and shopping - Cruise-friendly with flexible pick-up times based on ship arrivals

What could be more quintessentially Scottish than lochs and castles? Travel through the photo-worthy West Highlands, visit the haunting glen of Glencoe and stop at Loch Lomond on this day trip from Glasgow by Mercedes minivan. Numbers are limited to 16 passengers to ensure a more personalized experience with an informative guide, who offers insightful commentary at Kilchurn Castle, Inveraray town, Castle Stalker and more.

Edinburgh is known for its dark past, and this evening walking tour is the original one to showcase the city's historically sinister and spooky side. Discover the hidden ‘wynds’ (alleys) and closes of the Old Town as you learn their mysteries and horrors; visit the ghost-ridden Greyfriars Kirkyard; and explore the city’s underground vaults to uncover their spirits and secrets. Your tour is led by a creepily costumed guide to get everyone into the spooky spirit of things.

Journey to the frontier of ancient Rome on this full-day tour of Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish borders from Edinburgh. First up is a tour of the 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel, famously featured in ‘The Da Vinci Code’ and renowned for its mysterious stone carvings and unique architecture. After lunch (not included), stop at Melrose Abbey, the burial site of King Robert the Bruce’s heart, and look out over the English border from Cheviot Hills, before walking along the UNESCO-listed Hadrian’s Wall.

Discover top Highlands attractions, including Loch Ness and sites featured in the Outlander series, with this private guided tour from Inverness. Travel around in comfort in a Merceded V250 with stops at Loch Ness, Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and Fort George, along with several sites from Outlander.

See the best of medieval Edinburgh—without the hassle of putting together your own sightseeing itinerary—on this walking tour, which includes skip-the-line access to Edinburgh Castle. As you walk, listen as your guide shares the history of this formidable city with ancient Roman roots and UNESCO-listed historical attractions. Explore atmospheric cobbled walkways along the Royal Mile, then breeze into Edinburgh Castle to witness royal opulence.

Discovering Orkney without your own vehicle can be tricky, but this private car tour makes exploring easy. After a convenient pickup, travel with a local driver who was born and bred in Orkney. Along the way, gain insight into local history and visit key landmarks, including St Magnus Cathedral, Skara Brae, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, and the Standing Stones of Stenness.

Get more out of your time in Edinburgh with a private walking tour with a local guide. Explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town, gaze at Edinburgh Castle on its rocky perch, and ascend to the summit of Calton Hill for panoramic city views. The itinerary can be tailored to your interests. Receive personalized attention while gaining unique insights into the Scottish capital.

Explore Orkney at relaxed pace with a private tour which will leave you with lasting memories. Spend 5 and a half hours delving into the rich tapestry of Orkney's past, from Neolithic wonders like burial chambers and standing stones to the dramatic coastal vistas and Viking history that shape the islands. Uncover the tales of wartime significance that resonate throughout the islands. This eco-friendly tour in a fully electric vehicle promises a unique experience with expert guidance and a commitment to sustainability. - Private, flexible tour tailored to your interests and pace - Explore Neolithic sites, Viking heritage, and wartime history - Door-to-door pick-up in a comfortable, eco-friendly vehicle

Get out of the city and explore Scotland without the hassle of navigating public transport or unfamiliar roads. This small-group tour from Edinburgh takes you to the charming university town of St. Andrews and to one of Scotland’s oldest distilling locations, Lindores Abbey for a whisky tasting. There's also time for stops in the historic town of Falkland and at Lochleven Castle.

Listen to Edinburgh’s grisliest tales on a haunted evening or night-time walking tour. Experience the ghastly histories of monsters, madness, and murder that cast a dark shadow on Scotland’s capital. See where witch trials, pagan rituals, and executions took place, then visit the chilling Old Calton Burial Ground or Canongate Kirkyard cemetery to learn about body-snatching and some of the infamous individuals interred here.