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Ayrshire Tours

Ayrshire, in the southwest of Scotland, successfully combines ease of access with a wide range of quality hotels, excellent cuisine, first class visitor attractions for all ages, diaries full of cultural and sporting events and above all a friendly Scottish welcome. From north to south, east to west, Ayrshire has something for everyone including accommodation to suit your budget. World renowned for its championship golf, Ayrshire is also blessed with affordable and accessible courses throughout its length and breadth. The coast line provides some of the finest sailing waters around the UK and Ayrshire’s hidden secrets include the availability of country pursuits ranging from wonderful walks and equestrian activities to shooting and fishing. For the spectator there’s always a day out at Ayr Racecourse or take in some professional football or Championship Golf events. Ayrshire’s visitor attractions are as diverse as its landscape. From the splendour of its castles to working farm parks, museums and heritage sites to award winning interpretation centres, you can be assured of a great day out regardless of your age. Plenty to see and do, easy and affordable to get to, loads of excellent hotels at great value. So if you’re looking for a reason to visit Ayrshire its simple… It’s because you can.

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Highland Tours

The Highlands is a historical region of Scotland, comprising the Northernmost mountain ranges on the island of Great Britain, divided by the Great Glen between the Grampian Mountains to the southeast and the Northwest Highlands, divided from the islands of the Hebrides by the Minch. The term is also used for the area north and west of the Highland Boundary Fault, although the exact boundaries are not clearly defined, particularly to the east. Glencoe, known for its stunning landscapes, is steeped in a rich history marked by ancient clan rivalries, the infamous Massacre of Glencoe in 1692, and its cultural significance in the Scottish Highlands. Early History and Clan Influence Glencoe's history is intertwined with Celtic mythology, notably linked to Fingal, a legendary hero of Gaelic folklore. The area was historically inhabited by the MacDonald clan, who were granted the land by Robert the Bruce in the early 14th century. Over the centuries, the MacDonalds established a stronghold in Glencoe, where they engaged in farming and cattle herding, contributing to the region's cultural heritage of Glencoe Scotland The Massacre of Glencoe One of the most tragic events in Glencoe's history is the Massacre of Glencoe, which occurred on February 13, 1692. This event saw the betrayal of the MacDonald clan by government forces who had been welcomed into their homes. Following the Jacobite uprising, the MacDonalds were targeted for failing to pledge allegiance to the new monarchs, William III and Mary II. The massacre resulted in the deaths of 38 clan members, and it has left a lasting impact on Scottish history and identity, symbolizing the treachery and violence of the era. Cultural Significance Glencoe is not only a site of historical events but also a centre of Highland culture. The area has been a refuge for Jacobite supporters during uprisings, and its rugged terrain has fostered a rich tradition of Gaelic music and storytelling. The valley continues to attract visitors who come to pay their respects and learn about its storied past. Modern Glencoe Today, Glencoe is recognized for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities, including hiking and mountaineering. The village of Glencoe serves as a gateway for tourists exploring the natural beauty and historical significance of the region. The legacy of the MacDonald clan and the events of the Massacre remain central to the identity of Glencoe, making it a poignant symbol of Scotland's turbulent history. In summary, Glencoe's history is a tapestry of myth, tragedy, and cultural richness, making it a significant location in Scotland's historical narrative.

Stirling Tours

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland's most significant historical sites, known for its strategic location, royal connections, and key events throughout Scottish history & Strategic Importance. Stirling Castle is situated on a volcanic crag overlooking the River Forth, making it a formidable stronghold and a key defensive site. Its location allowed control over major routes between the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands, earning it the title of the "brooch" that joins the two halves of Scotland. This strategic position has made it a focal point in many historical conflicts, particularly during the Wars of Scottish Independence. Early History The castle's history dates back to at least the 12th century, with the first recorded mention around 1110 when King Alexander I endowed a chapel there. However, it is believed that the site has been fortified since prehistoric times. Throughout the medieval period, Stirling Castle served as a royal residence for many Scottish monarchs, who lived, were crowned, or died there. Key Events and Royal Connections Stirling Castle has witnessed numerous significant events, including Coronations: Mary, Queen of Scots, was crowned here in 1542, and her son, James VI, was baptized in the Chapel Royal in 1566. Battles and Sieges: The castle was the site of many battles, including the famous Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, where Robert the Bruce's forces defeated the English. It changed hands multiple times during the Wars of Independence, with at least 16 recorded sieges throughout its history. Royal Intrigues: The castle was also the scene of political machinations, such as the assassination of the 8th Earl of Douglas in 1452, which highlighted the turbulent nature of Scottish nobility at the time. Architectural Development Most of the current structures at Stirling Castle date from the 15th and 16th centuries, reflecting the architectural styles of the Renaissance. Notable features include the Great Hall, built by James IV around 1500, and the royal palace constructed for James V in the 1540s. The castle's design has evolved over the centuries, incorporating various styles and functions, from a military fortress to a royal residence. Modern Significance Today, Stirling Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a popular tourist attraction, managed by Historic Environment Scotland. It stands as a symbol of Scotland's rich history and heritage, drawing visitors interested in its architectural beauty and historical significance. Stirling Castle is not only a remarkable architectural feat but also a vital part of Scotland's national identity, representing the struggles and triumphs of its people throughout history.

Glasgow Tours

Glasgow was probably founded in the 6th century when St Mungo built a church at a place called Glas Gu. (It means green place). A fishing settlement at the green place eventually grew into a small town. and was given a bishop in 1115, indicating it was a fairly important settlement by that time. The church in Glasgow was replaced by a cathedral in 1136. The cathedral burned in 1172, but it was rebuilt. Then in the years 1175-78 (the exact date is not known), the king gave Glasgow a charter. (A charter was a document granting the townspeople certain rights). n In the Middle Ages Glasgow had a weekly market. From 1190 it also had a fair, which was held each July. In the Middle Ages, a fair was like a market, but it was held only once a year and people would come from a wide area to buy and sell at one Yet Dominican friars (known as black friars because of the colour of their costumes) came to Glasgow in 1260. The friars were like monks and took vows of chastity and poverty but instead of withdrawing from society, they went out to preach. There were also hospitals in Glasgow run by the Church. In them, monks would care for the sick as best they could. A hospital for lepers was founded south of the Clyde in 1350. In the late Middle Ages Glasgow slowly grew more important. In 1410 the wooden bridge across the Clyde was replaced with a stone one. Glasgow did not have stone walls, but it did have stone gates. As a sign of its growing importance, Glasgow in 1451 Glasgow was allowed to have a university. The Papal document that founded the university described Glasgow as a ‘place of renown, where the air is mild and victuals are plentiful’. A grammar school was founded in Glasgow in 1460. Meanwhile, in 1454, Glasgow was made a royal burgh. Then in 1492, Glasgow was given an archbishop. In 1674 the first cargo of tobacco arrived in Glasgow. It soon became one of Glasgow’s most important imports. Once colonies were founded in North America and the West Indies Glasgow benefited from its position on the west of Scotland. However, Glasgow, like all towns at that time, was dirty and unsanitary. Some attempt was made to improve things in 1685 when the authorities forbade people to leave piles of dung outside their houses. (There was, of course, a great deal of horse dung as well as dung from animals on their way to the market or the slaughterhouse). By the beginning of the 18th century, Glasgow probably had a population of about 12,000 and it grew rapidly. By the end of the century, the population of Glasgow had reached 84,000. By the standards of the time, it was a large town. In the 1720’s Daniel Defoe described Glasgow: ‘Glasgow is, indeed, a very fine city, the four principal streets are the fairest for breadth, and the finest built that I have ever seen in one city together. The houses are all of stone and generally equal and uniform in height’. He also said ‘It is the cleanest and most beautiful, and best city in Britain, London excepted’. Many more buildings were erected in Glasgow in the 19th century. The Stock Exchange was built on Buchanan Street in 1875. Also in 1875, the Fish Market was built. Mitchell Library was built in 1877. The City Chambers were built in 1888. Queens Cross Church was built in 1897 by Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868-1928). The same man also built the Glasgow School of Art Building in 1909. Transport also improved in Glasgow in the 19th century. In 1845 the first horse-drawn buses began running in Glasgow. From 1872 they were replaced by horse-drawn trams. After 1898 the trams changed to electricity. (The first electricity-generating station in Glasgow was built in 1893). Queen Street station was built in 1842. Buchanan Street station was built in 1849. The central station followed in 1879. Glasgow gained an underground railway in 1896. In the mid-19th century, Glasgow was described as ‘possibly the filthiest and unhealthiest of all the British towns. There were outbreaks of cholera in Glasgow in 1849 and 1854. The first time 3,777 people died. The second time 3,885 died. However, conditions in Glasgow improved in the later 19th century. In 1859 Glasgow gained a piped water supply. In 1893 the first electric streetlights were switched on in Glasgow, but they only slowly replaced gas. Also in the late 19th century, a network of sewers was built in Glasgow. n Furthermore the Albert Bridge was built in 1871. A pedestrian tunnel under the Clyde was built in 1895. In 1898 the Peoples Palace opened on Glasgow Green. Major industries in Glasgow in the 19th century included shipbuilding, Cotton, engineering, carpet making, pottery, and glass. In the late 19th century, the port’s facilities were greatly improved by building docks and new quays. The tonnage of ships built in the city rose from 20,000 in the year 1850 to 5000,000 in 1900. In 1888 an International Exhibition of Science and Art were held in Glasgow. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery opened in 1901.

Whisky Regions & Distillery Tours

There are nearly 150 active whisky distilleries spread across Scotland, which are split into five whisky-producing regions: Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside. Where a whisky is made can have a huge bearing on its flavour; everything from the source of the water to the presence of peat in the local area can influence the taste. Browse the listings in our Scotland's Whisky Distillery Map to learn more or find a behind-the-scenes whisky tour near you. Where is Speyside Trail? Sometimes referred to as a sub-region of the Highlands, Speyside sits between Aberdeen and Inverness. Home to dramatic moorlands, lush green fertile glens, woodland, and of course, the River Spey, it’s a whisky region that sees tourists from all over the globe, visiting all year round. Speyside is one of Scotland’s five official whisky-producing regions (many consider The Islands as another region, though they’re not officially recognised by the Scotch Whisky Association as an official whisky region). It is often referred to as ‘malt whisky country’ due to its high concentration of whisky distilleries. In fact, more than half of Scotland’s whisky distilleries are located in Speyside. Even though I say this regardless of which whisky region I visit, I can’t help but get nostalgic whenever I’m in the region, be it through work, or pleasure. I love the landscapes, I love the food here, the locals are so friendly, and the air just smells fresher, cleaner, and crisper than ever. Oh, and the whisky isn’t half bad either. As you embark upon this epic journey, you’ll venture through the heart of whisky country and will learn more about Scotland’s national beverage and the incredibly talented men and women responsible for producing it, all while sampling more than enough amazing whisky along the way. You’ll encounter woodland trails, forests, coastal cafes, riverside paths, country roads, quaint villages, and much more besides. Also, be sure to have your camera ready because the amount of wildlife you’ll encounter is ridiculous! See, you can understand why the trail has me so excited can’t you? Glenfiddich This is perhaps the most famous distillery on the trail itself. Considering its home to most highly awarded single malt in the world, that’s really not all that surprising. Situated in the heart of Dufftown, it was founded all the way back in 1886 by William Grant. What I love about this distillery is the fact that it is still in the Grant family and is currently being run by the fifth generation of the family. I love that because there are few family-owned distilleries in Scotland nowadays. Grant put a lot of money, time, and effort into the distillery and 18 months later, he was rewarded as the first drops of whisky were first produced on Christmas Day 1887. You’ve probably noticed that stags and deer are quite common in the world of whisky, which is hardly surprising considering they’re so common around much of Speyside. Grant named his distillery ‘Glenfiddich’ which in Scots Gaelic meant ‘Valley of the Deer’. The Glen Grant Heading into Rothes we have the Glen Grant distillery. Founded back in 1840 by James and John Grant, who were brothers, the distillery today produces some of the world’s most popular whisky. It’s also one of my personal favs. The distillery has got to be one of the most aesthetically pleasing on the trail. The Victorian Garden alone, which recently underwent an extensive restoration process, is worth the visit, especially on a nice day. Master distiller Dennis Malcolm oversees the whisky side of things here, producing some truly exceptional drams. Considering he has more than half a century’s experience in working at the distillery, you know the whisky is in the safest possible hands. With guided tours, a fully stocked visitor centre, and a refurbished tasting room, there’s plenty to keep you occupied here. You’ll also get to enjoy the odd dram here and there or take away a driver’s dram to enjoy at your accommodation if you do happen to be the designated driver. The Glenlivet For me, this particular distillery is quintessentially Scottish. When I picture a distillery in the rugged, weathered Highland landscape of Speyside, this is the type of distillery I think of. The Glenlivet Distillery is situated in a secluded, wild glen in the countryside. It’s a distillery with a history as deep and rich as the whisky it produces here. No trip to Speyside would be complete without a visit to this distillery, even if you don’t happen to be following the trail.

Golf Transfers

Golf originated in Scotland during the late Middle Ages and has evolved into a globally popular sport, with significant historical milestones and cultural importance. Early Origins of Golf's history in Scotland dates back to the 15th century, with the earliest known mention of the game occurring in 1457 when King James II banned it, fearing it distracted men from military training. Despite this ban, golf continued to be played, indicating its popularity among the Scottish people. The term "golf" itself is believed to have derived from the Old Scots word "gouf," and the game likely evolved from earlier stick-and-ball games played on the eastern coast of Scotland. Royal Endorsement and Growth The sport gained royal Favor in 1502 when King James IV became the first monarch known to play golf, which helped to legitimize and popularize the game. By the 16th century, golf was firmly established in Scotland, with notable figures like Mary, Queen of Scots, introducing the game to France. The term "caddie," referring to someone who carries a golfer's clubs, originates from the French word "cadet," used for her military aides. Establishment of Golf Clubs and Rules The first formal rules of golf were documented in 1744 by the Company of Gentlemen Golfers at Leith Links, marking a significant step in the sport's organization. The Old Course at St Andrews, established in 1764, is recognized as the oldest golf course in the world and has become known as the "home of golf". The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, founded in 1754, played a crucial role in governing the sport and establishing its rules. Cultural Significance Golf in Scotland is not just a sport; it is a significant part of the national identity. The country boasts numerous historic courses, including Musselburgh Links, which claims to be the oldest golf course still in play, with evidence of golf being played there as early as 1672. The sport has remained accessible to all social classes, contrasting with its perception as an elitist activity in other parts of the world. Conclusion Today, Scotland is celebrated as the birthplace of golf, with a rich history that continues to influence the game globally. The sport's evolution from informal play to a structured and widely recognized activity reflects its deep roots in Scottish culture and society. Golf remains a cherished pastime, drawing enthusiasts from around the world to its historic courses.

Edinburgh Tours

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, has a rich and complex history that spans over 2,000 years, evolving from a small settlement to a major cultural and political centre Early Beginnings Prehistoric Settlement: The earliest known human habitation in the Edinburgh area dates back to around 8500 BC, with evidence of Mesolithic sites found at Cramond. By approximately 900 BC, Iron Age tribes, including the Celtic Brythonic tribe known as the Votadini, inhabited the region. Roman Influence: The Romans arrived in the 1st century AD, establishing a fort at Cramond. They encountered the Votadini and later the Gododdin, who built a hillfort known as Din Eidyn, likely on Castle Rock. Medieval Development Formation of the City: By the 7th century, Edinburgh became a significant royal centre for the kingdom of Northumbria. The name "Edinburgh" is derived from the Old English "Eiden's burgh," meaning Eiden's fort, after the Angles captured the area. Royal Capital: In the 15th century, Edinburgh was declared the royal capital of Scotland. The construction of Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock solidified its status as a military stronghold. The Palace of Holyrood was built in the 17th century for King Charles II. Cultural and Economic Growth Trade and Commerce: During the medieval period, Edinburgh became known for its wool trade, with exports from the nearby port of Leith. The city developed a vibrant market economy, with goods such as leather and cattle being traded. Intellectual Hub: By the 18th and 19th centuries, Edinburgh emerged as a centre of intellectual activity, often referred to as the "Athens of the North." It was home to notable figures in literature, science, and philosophy, contributing to the Scottish Enlightenment. Modern Era Industrial Changes: Although Edinburgh did not become a major industrial centre like Glasgow, it experienced significant population growth in the 19th century, reaching over 170,000 by 1851. The city saw improvements in infrastructure, including the introduction of railways and electric street lighting. Political Significance: Following Scottish devolution in the late 20th century, Edinburgh became the seat of the Scottish Parliament, reaffirming its role as a political centre. Today, Edinburgh is celebrated for its historical architecture, cultural festivals, and as a UNESCO World Heritage site, encompassing both the medieval Old Town and the neoclassical New Town. Its rich history continues to shape its identity as a vibrant capital city in Scotland.

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Private Jet Aviation & FBO Transfers

We invite you to experience the luxury, sophistication, and comfort of Excel VIP Chauffeur Ltd.'s exclusive chauffeur service. We specialize in airport, private jet, and FBO transfers in Scotland Whether you are touching down at Glasgow (EGPF) FBO, Edinburgh (EGPH) FBO, or Prestwick (EGPK) FBO, our Excel VIP chauffeurs provide punctual door-to-tarmac service in premium Mercedes vehicles. We tailor our private jet and FBO transfer services in all of Scotland's FBO to meet and exceed the expectations of our valued clients & executives, VIPs, and high-end travellers, diplomats.

Airport Transfers

Excel VIP Chauffeur Airport Transfers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for both arrivals and departures. We use the latest flight tracking systems and a state-of-the-art booking and dispatch system with GPS tracking. This allows us to provide SMS and email updates at your preference, notifying you when your vehicle is on route, has arrived, the passenger is on board, and the ride is finished. Our luxurious Mercedes vehicles feature a full leather interior, ample legroom, Privacy Glass and dual climate control for your comfort. For your indulgence, we provide complimentary still or sparkling water and onboard Wi-Fi, allowing you to relax with sophistication. We offer a true door-to-door service to and from your locations. We are also available to assist with all luggage and passenger needs, Meet & Greet services can be arranged upon request. Child seats can be supplied in the vehicle if advised at the time of booking and prior to the commencement of the journey.

Luxurious & Sophisticated Chauffeur Transportation

We are delighted to present our bespoke luxury chauffeur services throughout Scotland, offering unparalleled travel experiences in cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Turnberry Gleneagles and the historic Home of Golf in St Andrews, as well as picturesque countryside and coastal routes. Whether you wish to explore Scotland’s historic landmarks, attend exclusive events, or simply enjoy a scenic drive, our Excel VIP chauffeurs ensure every journey is smooth, safe, and stylish. Allow us to craft a tailored itinerary that reflects ON your preferences, making your visit to Scotland truly extraordinary.