All Northeast Scotland Tours & Excursions in 2026

Explore the historic port city of Aberdeen and discover its hidden gems among the towering granite buildings and neo-gothic architecture. Find modern street art around unassuming corners, and find the city’s tunnels that form a maze underneath the streets. Learn about the witch trials that went on here in the 1500s-1600s, and see the old town where the city began as a tiny fishing village.

Explore the murkier corners of Aberdeen at your own pace with this highly acclaimed self guided audio walking tour of Aberdeen.  Beginning from the Mercat Cross, you'll weave your way through hundreds of years of history while discovering the stories of piracy, slavery, and insurrection that the city hides in plain sight.  Hear about "Indian Pete" and his efforts to banish child slavery.  The tour is ready whenever you feel like taking a stroll. It plays audio automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smart phone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline. It does not need a network connection to work. If you've got an hour and want to see some of the grisly and gloomy corners that Aberdeen has to offer – this is the tour for you!

This small-group tour offers a unique opportunity to gain in-depth insights into the world of golf, all centered around the iconic Old Course. Hear captivating stories about The Open, learn about Nike’s marketing campaigns, and enjoy fun anecdotes about celebrities, such as Sean Connery. With a professional caddie guide who worked at the Old Course in the 1980s, you can uncover fascinating facts and insider stories you wouldn’t hear otherwise.

This guided tour is a great introduction to Scotland and ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time. You'll pass by some of Scotland's most famous castles and mountains, see the ancient Clava Cairns, learn about the doomed Jacobite Rising at the Culloden Battlefield. You'll also visit the mysterious Loch Ness where you can take an optional boat trip.

Soak up Scottish history and some of the country's most stunning scenery, without the hassle of driving, on this day tour from Aberdeen. After visiting the cliff top fortress of Dunnottar Castle, head for Royal Deeside to see ancient forest and magnificent waterfalls, and discover why the area is a longtime favorite vacation destination for the British royal family.

Check out some incredible coastline as you and your small-group make your way through some coastal villages in Aberdeenshire. Visit Gardenstown and Crovie, and learn about their fishing and maritime heritage. Your guide takes care of the navigation while you just relax and enjoy the day out.

Learn more about St. Andrews than is possible wandering around alone by booking this guided walking tour. In a small group, your guide will bring the town to life as you take a leisurely stroll to such attractions as St Andrews' Cathedral, St Andrews' Castle, the Old Course, the University of St. Andrews and hidden gems that most visitors miss.

This isn’t just a whisky tour — it’s an exclusive journey into the heart of Eden Mill’s craftsmanship. From convenient pick-up in St Andrews to a warm welcome at state-of-the-art distillery, every detail is designed to make your experience seamless and memorable. You’ll gain rare access to Distiller’s Lab, explore behind the scenes with expert team, and taste whisky at every stage of its journey — from vibrant new make spirit to limited-edition single malts you won’t find anywhere else. The highlight? Sampling straight from the cask in warehouse, a truly special moment reserved for Cask Mastery guests. Your experience concludes in style at Lookout Bar, where a handcrafted cocktail and artisan cheeseboard are served against panoramic views of the Eden Estuary and St Andrews skyline. For whisky lovers seeking something beyond the ordinary, this is a one-of-a-kind celebration of flavour, innovation, and place.

Famed across the globe as the Home of Golf, St Andrews has more than just links to offer. Discover its history and lesser-known aspects of the beautiful game when you join these golf-oriented heritage tours. Visit the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, the last resting place of over 124 noted golfers, as well as the castle and Scotland’s oldest university. Learn about the evolution of golf at the Old Course and have your photo taken on the famous Swilkan Bridge.

Step into Aberdeen with a friendly local discovery guide and uncover the Granite City’s character at your pace—choose a focused 1 to 2-hour intro or a rich 6-hour deep dive through elegant squares, cobbled lanes, sea-kissed streets, and story-filled kirkyards. Along the way, enjoy striking granite architecture, lively street scenes, hidden wynds, riverside or harbour viewpoints, and peaceful green spaces—stopping for photos, local tales, and insider tips that bring the city’s history and culture to life. This entirely walkable experience keeps to open-air highlights and public spaces, weaving in street art, centuries-old courtyards, and classic vistas, with time for spontaneous detours that match your interests. Expect a relaxed rhythm, plenty of anecdotes, and a genuinely local welcome—perfect for first-time visitors and curious explorers who want an engaging taste of Aberdeen.

Head off on a Scottish seaside adventure with your very own kilted Scotsman guide. Travel up the North East coast from Aberdeen, and find hidden gems all along the coastline, including caves, historic castles and ruins, and even places to find puffins and dolphins. Stop at the village of Cullen for a light lunch, then continue your journey, enjoying scenic views as you travel.

**SELLS OUT IN SUMMER - please book early to avoid disappointment** St Andrews; the home of golf. What better way to discover St Andrews golf legacy and the Old Course than with a local expert! With a local guide, maximise your time in St Andrews on a private tour. Do something different and discover the controversies and quirks of golf, as well as a local insight into the politics of golf in the town. Get the insider scoop to the Royal and Ancient politics from a local outsider - without the bias. From the origins of the sport, and spending time on the 1st, 17th & 18th fairways, finish off with a photo on the famous Swilken Bridge, discover our incredible legacy with your local guide. You'll also see where some of the most famous shots in golf history took place (The Sands of Nakajima, Eisenhower on the Old Course etc.). Discover: Royal and Ancient Club Royal and Ancient Golf Museum 1st Tee & Fairway Putting Green 17th Green 18th Fairway Swilken Bridge …and many more hidden gems!

Start your day at the Port of Aberdeen, for a journey filled with breathtaking views and captivating stops. Your first destination is the stunning Falls of Feugh, just a short drive away. Stretch your legs and take in the natural beauty of the cascading waters, with a chance to spot salmon swimming upstream, adding to the magical scenery. Next, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Balmoral Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Wander the castle grounds at your own pace, enjoy a delightful lunch at the Balmoral Café, and dive into the royal history of this majestic residence. From the tranquil gardens to the elegant interiors, Balmoral offers a truly royal experience. Then, head to Ballater, a charming Victorian village nestled in the Cairngorms National Park. Explore quaint streets, browse local shops for handmade crafts, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. End your day with a scenic drive back to Aberdeen, reflecting on the beauty and history you’ve experienced

Discover the beauty and royal heritage of the Royal Deeside on this small-group tour from Aberdeen. Head first for Balmoral Castle where you can walk in the footsteps of the royals who have called the castle home. Afterward, head through the east Cairngorms to Ballater, a charming Victorian village of Ballater with royal connections. On the way back to Aberdeen, you'll visit the Cambus O'May suspension bridge, the Tomnavarie Stone Circle, and the Queen's View, one of Queen Victoria's favorite Aberdeenshire views.

Learn all about the ancient city of St Andrews along with golf history with a historian guide. As well as being the birthplace of golf, St Andrews has a world-famous university and cathedral, visited by monarchs and royalty for hundreds of years. Hear about the Pictish kings and clans who once lived here, and the Scottish royals who called this place their home. See gothic architecture side by side with humble fisherman’s cottages, and explore side streets and hidden closes you wouldn’t find on your own.

Having to wait in long lines puts a damper on trip activities, but pre-booking your ticket means you can skip the line to enter the Dundee Botanic Garden. Once inside, you are free to explore the garden and temperate arboretum housing botanical wonders collected from all over the world.

Aberdeen is an often-overlooked Scottish city but this small-group walking tour shows you why it should not be missed. Your guide brings the history of "the Granite City" to vivid life as you stroll between the university's 15th-century buildings, the 12th-century cathedral with a dark secret, Scotland's oldest bridge, and a secret graveyard that even many locals don't know about.

Aberdeenshire is known for its density of castles and historic buildings but, without your own transportation, getting around can be tricky. Skip the hassle of navigating public transit with this private tour. In the company of just your group and a guide, explore the history-rich region and enjoy the flexibility of adapting the itinerary to your specific interests.

Explore the rich golfing heritage of golf and Old Course development on this engaging private and exclusive walking tour. Delve into the history and anecdotes of the Old Course, including a visit to the iconic Swilkan Bridge and the legendary 1st and 18th fairways. This tour is perfect for golf enthusiasts and history lovers alike, offering insights into the origins of golf and its evolution. With a local expert guide leading the way, every step you take is filled with fascinating stories and notable landmarks. Join over 90,000 explorers who've made this tour a highlight of their Scottish adventure. - Duration: 90 minutes of captivating storytelling - This is an exclusive private tour option. Public tour is also available. - Tours available 7 days a week from March to October - Meeting point: Outside the Jigger Inn, Old Course Hotel, finish by the 18th Green

Discover Aberdeen through its striking granite streets and rich history on a guided walking tour led by a guide. From the medieval charm of the Kirk of St. Nicholas to the grandeur of Marischal College and the stories behind Provost Skene’s House, you’ll uncover how the “Granite City” evolved through centuries of trade, academia, and maritime power. Along the way, you’ll hear engaging stories, local legends, and hidden details that most visitors miss, bringing the city’s past and present to life. This is a relaxed, informative experience perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Aberdeen beyond the surface.

Get a fresh perspective on Dundee with a thrilling trip on a high-powered speedboat. Look out for native wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins and grey seals, and admire bridges, lighthouses, oil rigs, and spectacular modern architecture such as the new Victoria and Albert Museum. This is a small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 12 people, with live commentary from your driver/guide.

Explore four full decks of a remarkably preserved 1824 warship, where original cabins, gun decks and crew spaces reveal the real lives of sailors. See how over 300 men lived and worked aboard, from sleeping in hammocks to operating heavy guns, bringing the human stories of naval life to life. Unlike most historic ships, HMS Unicorn remains largely unchanged, thanks to its sheltered early history, making it one of the most authentic vessels in the world. Its unique design also captures a turning point in naval history, combining traditional wooden shipbuilding with early industrial innovation.

Get out of the city for a more-rounded experience of Aberdeenshire's diverse landscapes. This small-group tour from Aberdeen takes you along the stunning coastline to Dunnottar Castle, perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the North Sea; to the charming village of Stonehaven; to Mill of Benholm, a real gem hidden in the Mearns; and Greyhope Bay for the chance to spot dolphins and seabirds. Along the way, sample a selection of local treats.