Unique things to do in Glasgow City Region

Explore the uniquely beautiful Old Town of Edinburgh with your very own personal photographer! We start by meeting in the historic Grassmarket, a central and easy to find location. Places we visit include Victoria Street, The Vennel, Greyfriars Bobby, Royal Mile, St Giles Cathedral plus more! During the shoot, we will explore the many hidden, cobbled streets and alleys of the beautifully preserved Gothic Old Town that to me are quintessntially Edinburgh. Along the way, I will give you posing tips to capture stunning photos of your time in this memorable city! Most my guests have never had photos taken before and it's normal to feel a bit nervous or shy at first. I promise that within 15 minutes, you will feel natural and confident! Within 2 to 3 days, I will send you 30 beautifully retouched photos to your email! I run this experience in all weather conditions, so please dress accordingly. Feel free to bring any extra accessories or garments to change up your look during the shoot if you wish. Please select the exact number of guests attending. Babies under 2 are free.

This is a 3.5 hour tour from Edinburgh city centre to the sea and back in one superb loop through many different areas of this interesting and eclectic capital city. The main advantage of cycling is we can leave the city and visit the outer reaches, experiencing country landscapes and the gorgeous coastline. We pass through city attractions, history, breathtaking views, natural wonders and have a lot of fun along the way. (This tour is conducted with E Bikes, these are bicycles with assistance from an electric motor to make it easier but they must be pedalled, as with any bicycle) 

Our guided bicycle city tour starts at the West End of Princes Street, below the towering Edinburgh Castle. By travelling the cities superb network of bike paths and quiet side roads we will discover the hidden gems seldom seen by the average visitor. From the canals, volcanos, hidden tunnels, secret gardens and beautiful beaches to industrial history, old railways and all the interesting facts and tales therein. 

 The experience also includes an optional stop in a cosy cafe for refreshments around the midway point, should you wish. Sometimes the tour will be conducted by our experienced and excellent guide,Stuart! 
 We apologise but Under 14s cannot use E Bikes. Helmets are mandatory. Please come prepared for all weather eventualities. We are famous for rain after all :)

This private tour is a storytelling journey that moves from the edge of the new town, into the old town of Edinburgh. I'll share with you histories, legends, and mythical folktales of Scotland and Edinburgh as we make our way through this spectacular city. We'll begin in Princes Street Gardens and St Cuthbert's Kirkyard where I'll introduce some of the more sinister tales of the city. Then, as we walk through the gardens you'll hear stories of some of the monuments including the true story of Wojtek, the bear who became a soldier. From there we'll follow the winding streets up to the castle esplanade to admire the view, pausing for some traditional Scottish tales and legends along the way. From the castle we'll follow the steps down to the Grassmarket, once a famous site of execution. Then we'll walk up the cobbled streets to the haunted Greyfriar's kirkyard. You'll hear histories of families living in cramped conditions, tales of disease and suffering, stories of great fires and the birth of the celebrated Hogmanay gatherings in Edinburgh. And I will share stories from the world of myth and folktale, including tales of the faery folk and stories of hungry dragons. Hearing the stories of the city adds a richness to your experience of Edinburgh, as they are the tales which have shaped the city and its people for centuries.

May/June/July nearly full. Spaces on Sheepy Sleepover Naughty Sheep Retreats - 3 nights fun and wellness, half board,including afternoon tea Feed and stroke gorgeous Herdwick sheep. Fun for groups, gorgeous for couples. Adults only. Romantic trips, aniversaries, birthdays, animal lovers or adventurers in search of the unique and exclusive. Happy sheep and intimate teas means limited places. Private hen parties and Baaad boy brunch by request. NY Times, Vogue, Forbes Enjoy a traditional tea in the meadow looking at our panoramic views. Hilarious pet sheep will join you for cuddles and a bit of naughtiness and trying to eat all the wrong things.. After your outdoor home-made afternoon tea, you can photograph your new friends in the meadow or barn with a special bond of trust . If we have lambs there may be the chance to give them a bottle of milk too. You will enter the secret world of sheep- a wholesome joy Animals and hens are unpredictable and untrained Please don't film and feed at the same time- they like your full attention and I will ask for some phone-free periods to experience the Mindfulness of your new flock. The sheep are free to choose to walk away to graze too I recommend walking from the village to the location, 25 mins but you may drive the rough stone farm track of 1k. This is an outdoor experience in the Loch Lomond National Park- dress wisely

We'll embark upon a journey whereby we get you to a mystical place, where we'll delve deep into forrest, enjoying the song of the birds and the gushing sound of the gorge underneath us, walk along the gorge, looking down at the amazing waterfalls and taking pictures of it. Then we will get to an ancient "staircase", where we need to climb down, using the ropes alongside the "stairs" and once we get to the bottom, we'll gaze upon an amazing gorge between the rocks covered with moss, crystal clear water, cold as ice, but a place looking like a haunted scenery out a fairy tale. This is Finnich Glen, that locals thought of being a place of the devils, an isolated and remote looking area, that gives you the chills and excitement in the same time. No wonder this place has been used as a scenery for the Outlander movie. For those brave ones, who want to get further into the glen, you can roll up your pants and get into the water (warning: extremely cold) and walk along and see an amazingly mesmerising world in front of you. Other things to note A good head for heights is necessary as it involves climbing down some slippery stairs, holding onto some ropes and rocks

This tour includes a little of The Royal Mile and a lot of The Castle. Set aside time after your tour to explore. The price advertised does not include the entrance price to the castle, this is because some people book their own tickets in advance. You can purchase castle tickets directly from us at the start of the tour for your convenience. We meet on the Royal Mile and start by giving a little background history to Edinburgh and the Castle to help put everything into context. Moving up to the castle esplanade where you will learn about the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and two of the most famous figures from Scottish history; Robert the Bruce and William Wallace. Entering the Castle we stop by the Argyle Battery where you will learn about the 1 o'clock gun. Moving on we head down to the Hospital Square where we get impressive views from the Western Panorama before heading up towards the castle barracks and prisoner of war camp, all these areas have enthralling stories that only a guide can bring to life. We then climb to the top of Castle Rock entering the medieval section of Edinburgh Castle. Here we see the oldest building in Edinburgh, St Margaret’s Chapel and Mons Meg, a monstrous canon! The tour finishes in the Crown Square which is the heart of Edinburgh Castle and I will tell you all about the daring attacks against this iconic fortification.

Embark on an immersive and interactive Edinburgh Harry Potter Walking Tour that seamlessly weaves together local history, magic, and enchanting castle viewpoints. This engaging 5-star tour brings together our biggest passions in dark history and Harry Potter, all the while making you laugh. Our walking tour kicks off outside the National Library of Scotland, where we delve into the origins of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter saga and explore the potential inspiration behind Diagon Alley. Moving into the heart of the old town, we unravel the chilling history of public executions, marvel at a breathtaking Edinburgh Castle viewpoint, and uncover the secrets of Greyfriars Kirkyard, renowned as one of the most haunted graveyards in the UK. Immerse yourself in J.K. Rowling's creative world as we visit the cafes where she penned her iconic books. Hear the captivating tale of Greyfriars Bobby, whose story unfolds in the same graveyard that inspired four of Rowling's beloved characters. For those concluding the tour after midday, indulge in the optional delight of a deep-fried Mars bar and haggis (recommended but not included). Don't miss the chance to partake in the ultimate Edinburgh Harry Potter and dark history walking tour. All witches, wizards, muggles, and magical creatures are welcome. Secure your spot for this unforgettable adventure now. Happy traveling! Insta - @robcarrtours

Explore the uniquely beautiful Old Town of Edinburgh with your very own personal photographer! We start by meeting in the historic Grassmarket, a central and easy to find location. Places we visit include Victoria Street, The Vennel, Greyfriars Bobby, Royal Mile, St Giles Cathedral plus more! During the shoot, we will explore the many hidden, cobbled streets and alleys of the beautifully preserved Gothic Old Town that to me are quintessntially Edinburgh. Along the way, I will give you posing tips to capture stunning photos of your time in this memorable city! Most my guests have never had photos taken before and it's normal to feel a bit nervous or shy at first. I promise that within 15 minutes, you will feel natural and confident! Within 2 to 3 days, I will send you 30 beautifully retouched photos to your email! I run this experience in all weather conditions, so please dress accordingly. Feel free to bring any extra accessories or garments to change up your look during the shoot if you wish. Please select the exact number of guests attending. Babies under 2 are free.

From the top of Arthur’s Seat, enjoy unparalleled views of the city of Edinburgh and the entire surrounding landscape; the county of Fife, the Forth Bridges, the coastal plain of East Lothian and the Pentland Hills.....oh, and the North Sea! On this tour of Holyrood Park your friendly, knowledgeable and professional guide will lead you up the hill (along the safest and least strenuous route) and talk you through the very distinctive geological, natural and historical sites you will encounter. Holyrood Park is home to an extinct volcano, medieval religious sites, 3 lochs and a former hill fort. Following your climb up (and many photographs at the top) you will venture back down and conclude the tour back where we start. This tour is a great way for a visitor to literally get a bird’s eye view of Edinburgh and take in this very beautiful city and surrounding landscape....and sea views. While you don’t have to be in perfect physical shape to climb Arthur’s Seat it does take some physical exertion and those who join us should be confident in their physical fitness. This tour is great for those who love a good hike but want to learn more about Edinburgh and hear some interesting stories along the way.

You will be welcomed at the Sanctuary by a myriad of barking, happy , tail-wagging special needs dogs. Having gone into the "airlock" [a double safety gate to prevent escapees] before climbing up to the office, the dogs will surround you with wags, wiggles and woofs Once the excitement has settled down a bit you will be able to sit at the picnic tables on the covered decking and have adorable Chihuahuas clambering on your knee, Labradors vying for attention and Gandalf our large Golden Doodledor [ mongrel ] watching the activities from his vantage point on another picnic table. The dogs love all the attention and whilst you are giving them hugs and cuddles I will tell all their stories of how they came to be at the Sanctuary and their special needs and treatments if any. If wanted a short tour of the other animals at the Sanctuary can be included or you can stay on the decking with the dogs and give them a brush or just snuggle with a Chihuahua in your jumper and a Rottie round your neck . Other things to note Warm, waterproof clothing and footwear; if doing more than the Dog Cuddle Experience suggest wellies as the fields may be muddy. Please don't have goodies for the animals as you WILL be mugged for them. They can be left at reception for later treats thanks

This is a 3.5 hour tour from Edinburgh city centre to the sea and back in one superb loop through many different areas of this interesting and eclectic capital city. The main advantage of cycling is we can leave the city and visit the outer reaches, experiencing country landscapes and the gorgeous coastline. We pass through city attractions, history, breathtaking views, natural wonders and have a lot of fun along the way. (This tour is conducted with E Bikes, these are bicycles with assistance from an electric motor to make it easier but they must be pedalled, as with any bicycle) 

Our guided bicycle city tour starts at the West End of Princes Street, below the towering Edinburgh Castle. By travelling the cities superb network of bike paths and quiet side roads we will discover the hidden gems seldom seen by the average visitor. From the canals, volcanos, hidden tunnels, secret gardens and beautiful beaches to industrial history, old railways and all the interesting facts and tales therein. 

 The experience also includes an optional stop in a cosy cafe for refreshments around the midway point, should you wish. Sometimes the tour will be conducted by our experienced and excellent guide,Stuart! 
 We apologise but Under 14s cannot use E Bikes. Helmets are mandatory. Please come prepared for all weather eventualities. We are famous for rain after all :)

I will guide you in the fascinating Oriental art of Reiki, an incredibly effective method to quickly and easily clear the body’s blocked energy lines. It will restore your natural equilibrium, alleviate aches and pains, energise you both mentally and physically and generally elevate your mood. Following your Reiki treatment, you will leave me having not only learned about Reiki, but also feeling deeply relaxed, physically refreshed and emotionally energised. Your Reiki Experience is followed by a Traditional Scottish Afternoon Tea, served on fine vintage china. You will enjoy a range of mouth watering delights, including a variety of tasty, freshly made sandwiches, delicious, piping hot scones served with Ayrshire butter and local Scottish strawberry jam, all topped with luscious clotted cream! Your Traditional Scottish Afternoon Tea is completed with scrumptious cakes and an endless pot of the finest Indian Assam tea - pure luxury and decadent indulgence! This unique and fascinating afternoon begins at 1.00pm and a typical duration is approximately three hours. The Reiki Retreat and Traditional Scottish Afternoon Tea is ideally suited for one to six adults. The afternoon is very informal, relaxing and personally very rewarding. This is also available from 7.00pm as an Evening Retreat, when it is served with a delicious supper.

This walk starts in George Square, the very centre of Glasgow’s Georgian New Town, an area known today as The Merchant City, then onto Queen Street, along Ingram Street and down Candleriggs towards the Trongate and Glasgow Cross, then onto High Street, the main thoroughfare of Medieval Glasgow the original heart of Glasgow. Bruce Downie is an author, historian, tour guide and storyteller. He started Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow in 2021 with one clear vision, to share stories about Glasgow’s long and colourful history, stretching back over 1500 years, including some of its famous characters and its magnificent architecture. Visitors to the city and even local residents, are often encouraged to ‘look up’, to see more of the historic buildings that surround them, particularly from the Victorian and Edwardian era, but there’s so much more to Glasgow than just the architecture. Join Bruce for a few hours during your visit to discover some fascinating, dramatic and occasionally hilarious stories about Scotland’s biggest city.

This private tour is a storytelling journey that moves from the edge of the new town, into the old town of Edinburgh. I'll share with you histories, legends, and mythical folktales of Scotland and Edinburgh as we make our way through this spectacular city. We'll begin in Princes Street Gardens and St Cuthbert's Kirkyard where I'll introduce some of the more sinister tales of the city. Then, as we walk through the gardens you'll hear stories of some of the monuments including the true story of Wojtek, the bear who became a soldier. From there we'll follow the winding streets up to the castle esplanade to admire the view, pausing for some traditional Scottish tales and legends along the way. From the castle we'll follow the steps down to the Grassmarket, once a famous site of execution. Then we'll walk up the cobbled streets to the haunted Greyfriar's kirkyard. You'll hear histories of families living in cramped conditions, tales of disease and suffering, stories of great fires and the birth of the celebrated Hogmanay gatherings in Edinburgh. And I will share stories from the world of myth and folktale, including tales of the faery folk and stories of hungry dragons. Hearing the stories of the city adds a richness to your experience of Edinburgh, as they are the tales which have shaped the city and its people for centuries.

ATTENTION: THIS IS A PRIVATE SESSION During our tour we will walk along the most iconic locations of the old town and have photo shoot. The tour can be tailored upon your choice and style. No need to pose as I will guide you so the photos can look natural and spontaneous Send me a message for any requests you may have about the time and dates. This photo tour offers the chance to visitors having stylish edited photos from the most iconic locations in Edinburgh old town. You can check my IG account : Alt_in.portraits for more samples of my job.

May/June/July nearly full. Spaces on Sheepy Sleepover Naughty Sheep Retreats - 3 nights fun and wellness, half board,including afternoon tea Feed and stroke gorgeous Herdwick sheep. Fun for groups, gorgeous for couples. Adults only. Romantic trips, aniversaries, birthdays, animal lovers or adventurers in search of the unique and exclusive. Happy sheep and intimate teas means limited places. Private hen parties and Baaad boy brunch by request. NY Times, Vogue, Forbes Enjoy a traditional tea in the meadow looking at our panoramic views. Hilarious pet sheep will join you for cuddles and a bit of naughtiness and trying to eat all the wrong things.. After your outdoor home-made afternoon tea, you can photograph your new friends in the meadow or barn with a special bond of trust . If we have lambs there may be the chance to give them a bottle of milk too. You will enter the secret world of sheep- a wholesome joy Animals and hens are unpredictable and untrained Please don't film and feed at the same time- they like your full attention and I will ask for some phone-free periods to experience the Mindfulness of your new flock. The sheep are free to choose to walk away to graze too I recommend walking from the village to the location, 25 mins but you may drive the rough stone farm track of 1k. This is an outdoor experience in the Loch Lomond National Park- dress wisely

We'll embark upon a journey whereby we get you to a mystical place, where we'll delve deep into forrest, enjoying the song of the birds and the gushing sound of the gorge underneath us, walk along the gorge, looking down at the amazing waterfalls and taking pictures of it. Then we will get to an ancient "staircase", where we need to climb down, using the ropes alongside the "stairs" and once we get to the bottom, we'll gaze upon an amazing gorge between the rocks covered with moss, crystal clear water, cold as ice, but a place looking like a haunted scenery out a fairy tale. This is Finnich Glen, that locals thought of being a place of the devils, an isolated and remote looking area, that gives you the chills and excitement in the same time. No wonder this place has been used as a scenery for the Outlander movie. For those brave ones, who want to get further into the glen, you can roll up your pants and get into the water (warning: extremely cold) and walk along and see an amazingly mesmerising world in front of you. Other things to note A good head for heights is necessary as it involves climbing down some slippery stairs, holding onto some ropes and rocks

We will take a drive to Ben Nevis and the historic and ancient town of Fort William, here the site of two major battles that shaped the Scottish Lanscape. The first in 1431 where King James himself led an army well in excess of a 1000 fell to the sword or axe with the second battle of Inverlochy in 1645, known as the battle of the three kingdoms. We will be passing through the amazing Cairngorm Mountain range, to the north of Loch Lomond, in your own time and agenda with options for stops along the way. We will meet at 10am, travel to Loch Lomond stopping at Luss by around 12 pm where you can have lunch. Journeying on around 1pm following the west aspect of Loch Lomond with breath-taking views on our way up to the glacial and awe-inspiring Glencoe Mountain range. We should reach Fort William circa 3:30pm. Along the way we can stop at the Falls of Falloch a waterfall secluded pool to enjoy a peaceful rest. Then we can journey home, with the option of visiting a fully equipped farm shop I found along a previous tour. They stock a wide variety of quality local fair, from red meat, foul and fish to beers, wines, cheeses and chutneys. We should be home for around 7pm.

Do you want to meet and create with the Master himself, Vincent Van Gogh? I can offer 3 opportunities depending on my schedule. Mornings Afternoons Evenings. Spend a delightful hour with Vincent as he draws your portraits. Art supplies will be provided. While you draw each other Vincent will reveal the secrets behind the iconic paintings. Meet at The Pavilion Cafe in the beautiful Meadows. A700, Edinburgh EH9 1JZ Have a coffee while we create ART. When Vincent finishes his story, (1 hour depending on group size and portraits), we'll walk to the Scottish National Gallery and see some of the Impressionism and Post-Impressionism paintings that changed the world. And if you want the evening option we can see and hear local Foke Music. NOTE: Recently the Artist in Residence at Maison Van Gogh Colfontaine and performing in multiple countries and the Fringe Festival circuit, I've gained a deeper knowledge of Vincent's Journey, performing, art, and the creative process. "Walter DeForest’s magical Van Gogh Find Yourself is one of the most surprising, engrossing and delighting experiences I have ever had on the Fringe, If performance ever lives again, do try to see it". Kate Copstick -the Scotsman. *Inaugural Spirit of The Fringe @CincyFringe 2018 *Marketing Award @OrlandoFringe 2018 *Creative Carbon Scotland, Shortlisted - Sustainability Award at #EdFringe 2017.

Old Town Royal Mile is a MUST DO tour as this was the original Edinburgh during the ancient times and it is part of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come and discover Real Edinburgh with a local expert & Tour Guide. This is the Best Tour in Edinburgh. We will discover unknown, hidden spots and well-known historic places , including some HARRY POTTER sites, we will explore how the medieval Edinburgh looked like & how the city walls enclosed ancient Edinburgh and many more. Join me on this exciting, fun, mysterious and Historical walk through one of the oldest cities in the world, High Street and Beyond. I guarantee I will give you the Best History Tour in Edinburgh ! We will explore in detail the entire Old Town-Royal Mile. You will learn how old Edinburgh was, how people lived, what was real life during the medieval times and many many more things, facts & histories about Auld Reekie (Old Smokey the ancient name of Edinburgh). We will pass under and over different levels of streets connected with narrow alley ways. We are going to explore Edinburgh from her very heart to the outer most beauty. - Please book a private tour with kids under 5 years of age. This is a walking tour, so you have to be able to walk to enjoy this tour. Walking distance is around 1.5 miles. Other note: Rain jacket (just in case) and comfortable shoes to walk. Please ask me if you have questions.