McKinlay Kidd

Scotland by Railway is an eight day tailor-made trip for those who want to experience Scotland independently, while following a route that has been designed by local experts who have spent years exploring the Scottish Highlands. All travel, food and accommodation has been personally tried and tested to ensure you have an authentic and truly memorable trip. On this car-free holiday, as well as travelling between some of the country’s most stunning destinations by train, we will also organise taxi transfers when necessary. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. The itinerary starts in Edinburgh, then follows a wonderful Caledonian circuit through the likes of Pitlochry in the ...Read more >

A leisurely self-guided fortnight touring Highlands and islands, featuring spectacular rail journeys & authentic experiences beyond the train line. This comprehensive and sustainable 14-night rail holiday is carefully designed to allow plenty of two night stopovers. Take in the dramatic beauty of the West Highlands including spiritual Iona, the rugged charm of Skye, the delights of Inverness, the prehistory of Orkney and the magnificent scenery of the Cairngorm mountains. Enjoy the nostalgia and romance of the Jacobite steam train as well as trips by boat and ferry – after all, even we can’t arrange a railway journey over the sea! You’ll spend time in the company of expert local guides ...Read more >

The West Highland Railway is not only one of Scotland’s finest and oldest routes, with landscapes and lookouts that change every few minutes, it is also considered by many to be one of the most magnificent railway journeys in the world. This Scotland short break, of just three days, starts in Spean Bridge in the Highlands, where you will spend two nights in a hotel with a superb location, with strolls directly out of the hotel that boast views out across Ben Nevis, Loch Lochy and the Great Glen. Enjoy your first day in Spean Bridge absorbing the landscapes but also the fine hospitality on offer at this small, family-run hotel, where wonderful organic food is par for the course, open ...Read more >

One of the most luxurious and laid back ways to see Scotland, train holidays that are tailor made to suit your needs take you into the heart of the highlands and islands. For eight days, you will not only be embarking on spectacular train journeys, but also staying at some of the country’s finest hotels, such as the 5* Inverlochy Castle Hotel in Fort William, the terminus of your first train journey – the historic and mesmeric West Highland Line from Glasgow to Fort William. Sit back and relax as you rumble your way through the wild swathes of Rannoch Moor or past Loch Lomond. Your second day combines rail and sail, taking a Jacobite steam train, through dramatic highland scenery to the ...Read more >

Embark on a journey to the far reaches of the Atlantic and Scotland's northernmost point, venturing beyond the Blue Men of Minch to the birthplace of Gaelic culture. Immerse yourself in the era of the Vikings, a time that can be inferred from artifacts and landmarks that have endured for millennia. Delve into the legend of a fugitive prince and the origins of mythology. Join a group of fellow explorers for a week-long adventure, as you discover the abundance of captivating landmarks and narratives that span the entire expanse of the Outer Hebrides. Your adventure begins with a warm meet-and-greet from your friendly local guide and fellow explorers, followed by a welcome meal. Next, you'll ...Read more >

This five day tailor made holiday to see Isle of Mull wildlife in all its glory starts in Oban, where you will take the ferry over to the island. An island with fecund fauna, you will have the services of naturalist guides, expert in Hebrides wildlife. With two full days of guided wildlife safaris, one will focus on land, with bird watching treats that include golden eagles sweeping over the island’s tranquil valleys and sea eagles dipping in and out of the island’s rocky and sandy bays. The island’s marshlands are perfect habitats for hen harriers and walks on quiet, rural lanes are great times to spot cuckoos, mistle thrush or skylarks. The highlight of your day may be stealthily watching ...Read more >

Commencing in the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, this six day holiday follows a flexible, but well crafted itinerary that enables you to take in the world renowned Causeway Coast and all its natural and cultural highlights, without using a car. Belfast Stay for your first two nights in a locally owned bed and breakfast just ten minutes’ walk from the centre of Northern Ireland’s capital. A welcoming and easily accessible city to wander around, highlights that we recommend include the historic Cathedral Quarter, with St Anne's Cathedral at its heart. This was, traditionally, the wealthy merchants’ hub of the city. In contrast, we also recommend the Titanic Quarter, so called ...Read more >

The West Highland line is considered by many train aficionados to be one of the finest rail journeys anywhere in the world. It is that wild and wonderful mix of the likes of Rannoch Moor and Glencoe, passing lochs and waterfalls, streams and striking uplands, all changing by the minute depending on that ever varying Scottish light. In addition, our tailor made West Highland railway holidays take you not only from the Glasgow starting point up to Fort William, at the foot of Ben Nevis, but also over the sea to the Isle of Skye. Spend the first two nights of this tailor made Scottish trip in a remote highland village called Spean Bridge, where your small, locally run hotel overlooks Ben ...Read more >

Escape the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads and embrace a stress-free and eco-friendly journey through the breathtaking Channel Islands. With a local guide by your side, you'll discover the hidden gems of Guernsey using only public transport, where you'll have the chance to admire the island's natural beauty and rich history without the distractions of driving. Spend a day on Herm marvelling in the views over to Sark and the Normandy Coast. Venture to the rugged and remote island of Sark, where you can wander its clifftop paths and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding sea. And finally, visit the charming and picturesque island of Alderney, known for its cobbled streets, ...Read more >

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Channel Islands and uncover the stunning beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of Guernsey, Sark, and Jersey. With a local guide by your side, you'll delve deep into the heart of these idyllic islands, discovering their secrets and experiencing their many charms first-hand. During your six-night guided tour, you'll explore the winding streets of historic St. Peter Port in Guernsey, wander the rugged cliffs of Sark, and marvel at the vibrant gardens of Jersey. You'll also have the opportunity to sample local cuisine, admire traditional architecture, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of these stunning islands. From your ...Read more >

Explore the astounding beauty and welcoming culture of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way in the company of an expert guide on this small group tour by train. This fully-escorted tour will allow you to delve deeper into the culture and history of each location along the Wild Atlantic Way, from the grand sights of the Cliffs of Moher to the Ring of Kerry. With a maximum of 15 passengers per group, you can be assured of a highly personal service from your knowledgeable tour leader. Pricing The price includes: Seven nights in hand-picked accommodation on a B&B basis. A welcome dinner in Dublin. Two lunches. Rail travel from Dublin to Galway, return ferry travel to Inis Mhor, rail travel from ...Read more >

It’s easy to see the Scottish Highlands by rail – this guided rail tour organises everything for you, so you can sit back and admire the scenery. Throughout this trip you’ll stay in wonderful family-run accommodation, enjoying local produce and charming historic rooms. Meet your group over a welcome dinner in the Edinburgh, before venturing into the country. The Kyle Line cuts a scenic route across the Highlands, and you’ll ride it to Loch Carron, where you can enjoy the splendid Attadale Gardens on a private tour with the owner. Next, depart the mainland for the Isle of Skye, where an expert local guide will show you around the island’s landmarks, telling you tales from its long and ...Read more >

For wildlife holidays in Scotland, looking west to the Isle of Mull is a good way to point your compass. The second largest island in the Inner Hebrides, wildlife is prolific, not least because of whale watching opportunities, with these Scottish waters home to minke whales and sometimes even an orca or two. This independent week-long holiday includes three full day guided wildlife experiences plus plenty of time to explore as you wish. We pre-arrange a trip on the water in the company of expert local guides not only in search of whales, but also dolphins, basking sharks, porpoises and seals swimming off the shores of Mull. Another trip brings you to the nearby Treshnish Isles: from late ...Read more >

This tour of England uses the country’s reliable rail network to get between some of its best cities. The scenic route includes Hadrian’s Wall in wild Northumberland, the beautiful shores of the Lake District, historical sites in Bath and the coastal splendour of Penzance This is a wonderful way to see England’s most beloved regional sites. Sit back as your train rumbles through green, pleasant countryside in the day. There are no overnight trains – instead, you can get comfy staying in historic hotels and guest houses. You’ll spend your days exploring the wonderful historic cities of York, Chester and Bath – whose historic streets contain Roman ruins, medieval buildings, cathedrals and ...Read more >

Scottish island holidays can take a bit of planning, working out ferry logistics, how big each island is to navigate and so on, which is why we crafted an itinerary that takes in the three very different islands of Iona, Skye and Mull. Also, these islands are wonderfully remote and so many people don’t want to take a car, so holiday is all about leaving the car at home, travelling up on the stunning West Highland Line and travelling as a foot passenger after that. This holiday starts in Glasgow where you will travel on the West Highland Line, one of the UK’s most spectacular rail journeys, through highlands to the islands and passing Loch Lomond en route to Oban ferry port. Mull and ...Read more >

An eight day Ireland holiday, by train plus one ferry journey, following our carefully crafted itinerary, that enables you to sit back, relax and enjoy three of Ireland’s finest cities as well as its world famous Aran Islands. Train travel in Ireland is very straightforward, and this holiday starts in Dublin, where you will stay in the heart of the fine Georgian city. Enjoy a guided walk around Dublin, taking in some of its most famous sites including Trinity College University, which is also home to the ancient Book of Kells. The Guinness Storehouse is one of the city’s most popular sites where not only will you get fantastic views of the city, but also sample Ireland’s most popular ...Read more >

Few people think of exploring England’s West Country by rail, but this trip has been carefully designed to be car-free all the way – especially in the Scilly Isles, where you’re more likely to encounter bikes and golf buggies than BMWs. Set off on your first day with a train journey from London Paddington to Penzance. The scenery along the line is truly mesmerising, passing landmarks such as Windsor Castle before hitting Somerset, the South Devon Coast and Dartmoor. Once you’re in West Cornwall you’re free to explore the beaches and seaside towns at leisure. Try arty St Ives, a town long associated with artists – one look at the scenery will show you why. Penzance is full of great ...Read more >

It’s easy and convenient to see Britain by rail – the world’s oldest railway network still works like a charm, and connects together some amazingly historic cities. Go clockwise from London, ending up round at York, taking in a mixture of cities and countryside on the way – and tailor your route to your requirements. It’s an environmentally-friendly way to soak up the environment! Your route whisks you from London to Bath. After a day enjoying the town’s unspoilt Georgian good looks, you’ll head through the Cotswolds to the famous university city of Oxford. Continue up the west of England to Roman-built Chester and the gorgeous shores of the Lake District, staying above a charming ...Read more >

A guided rail journey is a great way to soak up the beauty of the Scottish Highlands and appreciate their sweeping scale. This trip takes you along the famous West Highland Line, before using ferries to take you beyond the train track and onto the islands of Mull and Iona. All accommodation has been hand-picked by local experts, to ensure your absolute enjoyment. Your trip starts in Glasgow with a welcome dinner – fuel up, because tomorrow you’ll be going north. The next day, you’ll plunge straight up the West Highland Line to Oban. Here, you’ll discover the standing stones and strange stories surrounding Kilmartin Glen and spend a morning with the head gardener of Arduaine Gardens. A ...Read more >

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime rail journey through the stunning landscapes of Bath, Devon, and Cornwall. With this fully-guided tour, you can sit back, relax, and savour every moment as you discover the region's rich history and beauty. Your adventure begins with a warm welcome and a delicious dinner amongst your travel companions and your expert guide in Bath. From there, you'll journey to Salisbury Plain to marvel at the ancient majesty of Stonehenge. Then, climb aboard a historic steam train and take in the rolling countryside as you travel to Devon. In Plymouth, explore the vibrant ocean city's artistic and cultural heritage, before continuing by rail to the rugged coastline of ...Read more >