Scrabster 2026 Calendar of Events

Lovely day out from Inverness tour was run by timberbush tours our driver Paul did a great job pointing things out to us and giving clear instructions on times to be at places

We went on several day trips with “Highland Guided Tours” and although every trip was fantastic this one was my personal favourite. Gorgeous views all the way to the northernmost point of mainland Scotland.John was our guide for this tour. John is from the North of Scotland, so his connection with the area made this very special and lovely. It’s a great pleasure to experience a place under the guidance of someone who lives there, who knows and loves it, and who can tell you a lot about anything from nature and history to facts about day-to-day life and interesting stories.Also, shout out and many thanks to Tony, who helped us to make all the plans for this and other day trips with them. His attention to detail and care made our experience seamless and enjoyable.Having travelled around the world quite a lot, I have been on many private/small group tours, but our time with “Highland Guided Tours” is definitely among my best experiences. Comfortable car, attention to detail, flexibility and experiences tailored to your preferences.

Yesterday our ship docked in Scrabster, Scotland, in the heart of the Highlands. We were fortunate to have booked a private Top of the Highlands tour with Johnny of Highland Guided Tours.Instead of simply heading straight to John O’Groats, Johnny led us on a seven-hour journey through the Highlands, uncovering hidden gems and breathtaking scenery. We saw the Whaligoe Steps, marveled at the dramatic Duncansby Stacks, explored the town of Wick, and stood at Dunnet Head, the true northernmost point of mainland Scotland, where the sweeping views were unforgettable.Along the way, Johnny brought the Highlands to life with his wonderful stories, weaving history, folklore, and local insights into every stop. We also visited the small church where the Queen Mother worshipped faithfully until the age of 101 and drove past her beloved Castle of Mey.It was an incredible day — rich with history, scenery, and those unforgettable experiences you only find when you wander off the beaten path. If you’re ever in Scotland, I can’t recommend Highland Guided Tours enough. This wonderful family-run business with Tony and Johnny will make your day in the Highlands truly unforgettable.

The tour was outstanding and worthy of 6 stars if that rating were available. My companion and I were looking for a day tour that would take us from Inverness to the top of the Scottish mainland, and cover all the places we wanted to visit. This tour delivered all that and more! Our experienced guide, Johnny, was born and raised in Wick, and was extremely knowledgeable of the area as well as engaging and personable. We toured in an immaculate and comfortable Land Rover. Our visit to Dunrobin Castle was special because Johnny accompanied us throughout the castle and explained in expert detail what we were seeing and the historical context. He made sure we had whatever photo opportunities we wanted in the castle and grounds. In Wick, Johnny provided personal insights from his childhood and explained the sights ranging from the harbor area to the swimming area fed by the North Sea tides, and the Guinness Book of Records “shortest street in the world.” Our other goals included visiting John O’Groat’s, Dunnet Head, the Stacks of Duncansby Head, and if possible, seeing puffins that might be nesting on the coastal cliffs. All our goals, including seeing the puffins, were met and exceeded. Johnny was very accommodating with whatever we wanted to do or however long we wanted to stay, but also took us to many great places of which we were unaware, such as the little Canisbay church where the Queen Mother attended worship services. We were able to see the outside of the Castle of Mey as well. Johnny provided interesting insights and background information at each stop. The weather was fairly challenging with wind, rain and fog when we were in the John O’Groat’s / Dunnet Head area, but we were undeterred and Johnny’s guidance made for a memorable adventure. While we were returning to Inverness, Johnny continued to point out sights of interest and we stopped occasionally for photos or have a closer look whenever we wanted. As always, Johnny was engaged and engaging, and fully committed to making sure we had the personalized experience of the northern Highlands that we wanted. We were never rushed or hurried. Anyone looking for a bespoke tour of this area should book this immediately in our opinion.

Tony was incredible. Very helpful very knowledgeable and the tour itself was a lot of fun. Nice to escape the big cities

Well, the welcome to Scotland at Inverness airport at the Herz hire company was very rude to say the least, thanks Rob. However, the rest of our travels were great. We stayed at Beinn Mohr Lodge with Mary Ann, gorgeous house with parking and walking distance into town. We read an advert in the EasyJet magazine a small bar The Walrus a corkscrew. Worth a visit. We walked the island by the river and the old town ( not much there) We spent a day on the Black Isle dolphin watching and a trip to Cromerty, quaint. Next stop Dunrobin castle on our way up to John o Groats.. 2 nights is enough.

Excellent full day private tour with an experienced and passionate local guide. Tony provided a well planned tour that was then customized to our interests and preferences. The vehicle was comfortable and we were well looked after throughout the tour.We have been to Scotland before and we're looking for experiences and perspectives off the normal tourist track. The North and Northeast coast tour provided ample points of interest and incredible experiences. Given the distance to be traveled in a day to see so much, the clean and comfortable vehicle and professional driving made the travel time fly by.Tony is a local and provided commentary and knowledge throughout the tour. His passion and pride in the region were evident and provided a perspective that couldn't be replicated any other way. In summary, I was very happy with the quality, professional, and memorable experience.