All Northeast Scotland Tours & Excursions in 2026

Explore over 2,000 years of history on this guided walking tour through St Andrews, the birthplace of golf. Led by a professional local guide, visit all the major sites like the Cathedral ruins and the Old Course. This tour not only reveals the rich heritage of St Andrews but also its significant role in the evolution of golf itself. With something for everyone, this tour is Ideal for both the golfer and non-golfer but the tour is not suitable for under 5s. A public variation of this tour is also available on Viator: St Andrews Tours: Town, Golf and Old Course History - Enjoy a private exclusive guided tour with a professional local guide - Discover all the major St Andrews' landmarks, including the Cathedral and the Old Course - Capture memorable photos en route to having bucket list photos on the Swilkan Bridge! - Tours run daily from March to October with a duration of 2 hours

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.

Enjoy a wee walk followed by a premium cocktail in the luxurious setting of Dune cocktail bar. The perfect 2 hours spent; discovering St Andrews on foot and then a drink with your local guide. You'll spend the first part of the tour on a walking tour with your small group and guide, discovering the history and culture of St Andrews. Throughout the tour, discover St Andrews as you walk in the footsteps of golfing legends, royals, heretics who were burned at the stake, famous cats and those who live in St Andrews today! Your local guide will bring St Andrews to life. After your walk, unwind in the luxurious ambiance of Dune cocktail bar. Sip on a handcrafted cocktail from their signature menu, whether bespoke or a timeless classic, while enjoying relaxed conversation with your guide in this stylish setting. A delightful mix of exploration and indulgence, this tour is the perfect way to experience St Andrews like a local. Everything is included in the price, just show up and enjoy!

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.

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 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

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.

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.

Visit “Scotland’s Alcatraz,” long the country’s only high-security prison, without the hassle of waiting in line at the ticket office. Head straight inside and follow the audio tour to learn about the 125-year history of the former HM Convict Prison, including the infamous 1987 siege and Britain’s first state-owned railway. Walk through the galleries and halls as you listen to the stories of prison officers for a fully immersive experience.

Join Stuart's Bicycle Tours to discover the rich history and natural beauty of St Andrews. Think St Andrews is just about golf? Discover ancient history, dramatic ruins, breathtaking panoramic views and stories spanning over 1000 years in the best way possible...by bicycle! We’ll visit the iconic landmarks like St Andrews Castle, the Cathedral ruins, The Old Course and The University but also reach places that few visitors ever do and learn about the deep and rich place St Andrews holds in Scottish history. All with an experienced, enthusiastic and local guide from right here in Fife. With standard and E-bikes available, the tour is suitable for all abilities. Perfect for history lovers, nature seekers, and anyone looking for a fun, meaningful way to explore this iconic Scottish town.

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

From First Pixels to a Gaming Legacy. Discover the remarkable story of how a city helped shape the world of video games. From the earliest days of computing to the games played by millions today, unexpected connections are hidden all around you. Follow the story through the streets, solving puzzles, cracking codes and playing games inspired by the evolution of gaming. Along the way, uncover unlikely beginnings, ingenious ideas and pivotal moments that reached far beyond the city. Each location reveals another piece of a story filled with innovation, creativity and surprises. With our innovative outdoor escape games your surroundings become the game. Guided by your phone, your team explores real landmarks, uncovering virtual clues and solving puzzles that connect directly to the world around you. It’s part treasure hunt, part walking tour, and part mystery thriller. An immersive experience where history, legend, and imagination collide right in the streets beneath your feet.

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.

**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!

Combine the convenience of a guided tour with the flexibility of independent exploration. This audio tour lets you explore St. Andrews, and learn about its unique history, at your own pace, starting and stopping whenever you choose.

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.

This half-day tour is an excellent choice for travelers keen to see the magnificent castles of Scotland. Benefit from the luxury of a private tour that’s just for your personal group, which means a flexible itinerary and timings to suit your preferred schedule. Sample stops along the way include the 13th-century Drum Castle, the 16th-century Crathes Castle, and the magnificent fortified Dunnottar Castle.

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.

We take our time to make the very best of your time with us. Little roads and flexible journeys to get you away from the well worn paths with a rolling tale of the tour including some singing and the possibility of meeting local people. A very comfortable and quiet vehicle with excellent access. Guides are experienced, careful drivers who know their home and love to share it with you.

Welcome to A Path Less Known Tours! I'm Jamie, your qualified STGA Green Badge tourist guide, and I'd love to show you Scotland's spectacular Buchan Coast. Join me on a private 8.5-hour tour from Aberdeen, exploring dramatic cliffs, beaches and historic fishing villages. Discover Gardenstown, Crovie and Pennan, where generations of fishing families shaped coastal life. We'll also explore the maritime heritage of Fraserburgh and Peterhead. I'll share local stories and history that bring this coastline to life. Depending on your interests and available time, we can visit Slains Castle and Troup Head, with opportunities for wildlife watching, photography and lunch. Puffins may be seen during their breeding season, but sightings aren't guaranteed. With a maximum of seven guests, enjoy a relaxed, private experience with your own qualified local guide. I look forward to showing you a path less known!

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.

Explore St Andrews the way you want to, spend quality time with a local and get a real taste for our beautiful town. With flexible meeting and end points, and a dedicated local guide, maximise your time in St Andrews on a private tour. A quaint town beaming with locals, students from all over the world and even royalty, St Andrew’s is charming, whichever way you look! From the international home of golf, to the world’s third oldest university, with one of the most beautiful shorelines on the east coast, there’s something for everyone in this idyllic town. Join us on a 1.5 hour leisurely stroll around the main sights of the town with an expert, local guide and learn things you wouldn't learn visiting yourself. Discover St Andrews as you walk in the footsteps of golfing legends, royals, heretics who were burned at the stake, famous cats and those who live in St Andrews today

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.