happy tours scotland

Happy Tours Scotland

Fun, friendly, expertly guided Private Tours leaving daily from Inverness .

We prefer to use 8-seater vehicles, or executive 5 seater Land Rover,  so that our guests can have a chance to get to know our guides and ask questions, creating a much more personal tour. Our Private tours cover : Isle of Skye Tour, Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Tour , Dunrobin Castle and Glenmorangie Distillery Tour , Glenfinnan and Great Glen Tour , Speyside Whisky,  Cairngorm Mountains, Loch Ness 360 and Personalised Private Tours on request. Tours are also available from the Port of Invergordon.

Based in Inverness our friendly, experienced and fully-trained Happy Tours Scotland guides are incredibly passionate about this beautiful location , and have a wealth of knowledge spanning from history, to folklore, to how to dress as an 18th century kilted Highlander!

One of our guests Theo said “Such a memorable day out, I wish I could relive it. We had such an amazing tour guide and I learned so much. It’s hard to pick a highlight but feeding the Hairy coos (who clearly know when its feeding time lol) is certainly up there. The highlands are exceptionally beautiful and filled with such a great deal of history as well as mystery. I can’t speak higher about the guide or this amazing tour. Thank you for an unforgettable experience.”

We look forward to giving you a “Happy” Tour."

‘‘ From first point of contact, I was impressed with the service and ability to accomodate my requests, nothing was a problem. I could not have asked for more from the tour. Our guide on the day, Bill was also exceptional. Full of information, full of life and passion for his country and history. Had a great day and one that I will never forget. Thankyou! - Just one of our many great reviews! ’’

Happy Tours Scotland Front of Columba Hotel

7 Ness Walk

07828154683

[email protected]

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Happy Tours

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Isle of Skye Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

Speyside Whisky Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Great Glen Private Tour from Inverness

Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Private Tour from Inverness

Dunrobin Castle and Glenmorangie Distillery - Local Private Tour

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

HAPPY TOURS (Inverness) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Happy Tours

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Isle of Skye Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

Speyside Whisky Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Great Glen Private Tour from Inverness

Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Private Tour from Inverness

Dunrobin Castle and Glenmorangie Distillery - Local Private Tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Happy Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Discover the Spirit of Scotland: Authentic Small-Group Tours

Embrace the thrill with scotland adventure tours.

Scotland’s wild heart beats strong in its towering fortresses, untamed landscapes, and the echoes of Gaelic spoken by ancient settlers. Our Scotland adventure tours delve into this storied past, offering you a chance to walk in the footsteps of clans and kings. Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Scottish Highlands, where every glen and loch tells a story. Discover more about our curated expeditions, or perhaps, weave your own narrative by combining your journey with our enriching Tours of Ireland to experience the best of both Celtic destinations. 

Authentic Experiences with Our Guided Tours of Scotland

With Wild N Happy, small-group travel in Scotland transcends the ordinary. Our expertly led excursions not only cover the grandeur of renowned Scottish icons but also usher you into the hidden nooks that escape the typical tourist routes. Whether it’s uncovering the mysteries of the Orkney Isles or tracing the rugged trails of the West Highland Way, we’re here to guide your adventure. If the allure of Scotland calls to you as a siren song to visit the land of your ancestors, let us craft a vacation in Scotland that’s as unique as your own clan tartan. We encourage you to reach out if you’d like to find out if our Scotland tours go to specific spots that help you reconnect with your Scottish heritage. 

Top Scotland Tours

Discover Scotland – 6 Day Tour

Ireland & Scotland’s Land of Giants – 13 Day Tour

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Ireland’s Wild North & Scotland – 14 Day Tour

Authentic Scotland & Ireland – 17 Day Tour

Ireland’s Wild Grande + Scotland – 20 Day Tour

The wild n happy foundation, make a difference when you travel with us as with each booking you make directly with us we give back 3% through the wild n happy foundation to carefully selected initiatives that promote a better planet..

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Scotland Vacation FAQs

Do i need a passport or a visa to travel to scotland.

UK and EU citizens are required to have a valid passport or a national identity card to enter Scotland. Citizens of all other countries must have a valid passport.

Citizens of the EEA member states as well as other countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA are not required to apply for a visa to travel to Scotland.

Prior to travelling to Scotland, citizens of all other countries should contact their local Scottish Embassy or visit the Department of Foreign Affairs website for more information.

What currency is accepted in Scotland?

Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, so its official currency is the British Pound.

Is tipping customary in Scotland?

Tips are not included in our tour price and tipping is entirely at your discretion. A guided price to tipping in Scotland is generally between 10-15% of cost value. In taxies, it’s usually nice to round up to the nearest five, but it’s not expected.

What is internet access like in Scotland? 

Internet access is quite good in Scotland.  Most B&Bs, hotels, cafés, pubs, and tourist attractions across the country offer Wi-Fi access to their customers or visitors. As you venture into the highlands and islands, you will struggle to access reliable mobile internet signal.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Scotland?

Mobile phone coverage is good in most parts of Scotland. However, ensure your global roaming is fully activated before travelling to Scotland, so you can enjoy the benefits of your phone plan away from home. 

What are toilets like in Scotland?

Toilets in Scotland are modern and flushable. In addition to the public restrooms you can find in most towns and villages, some are also available in service stations and pubs.

Is smoking legal in Scotland? 

In 2006, Scotland banned smoking in public buildings. While smoking is prohibited in work and public places, it is however permitted in the street and in private accommodation.

Can I drink the water in Scotland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in most parts of Scotland — especially in large cities and towns like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Sterling. However, it is recommended not to drink from the bathroom sink.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Scotland?

In Scotland, most stores will accept credit and debit cards, and it’s illegal in the UK to charge you to use them. Some small stores won’t have card machines, though, so it’s good to have some spare cash — just in case.

What is ATM access like in Scotland?

ATMs are common in Scotland, they can generally be found outside banks, in grocery stores and in transit centers.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Scotland?

Our tours do not include travel insurance but we highly recommend travel insurance for all Wild N Happy tours. We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, medical expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money and public liability before travelling. We accept no responsibility for the theft, loss or damage to personal belongings or liability for personal injury/death at any time during the duration of your tour. 

What public holidays are celebrated in Scotland?

• 1–2 January / New Year’s Day
• 15 April / Good Friday 
• 18 April / Easter Monday
• 3 June / Platinum Jubilee bank holiday
• 1 August / Summer Bank Holiday
• 30 November / St Andrew’s Day
• 25 December / Christmas Day
• 26 December / Boxing Day

What is the weather like in Scotland? 

If you don’t like the weather in Scotland, just wait a minute and it’s likely to change. Expect to have four seasons in one day and pack accordingly.

Travel Guides of Ireland and Scotland

Killarney: All You Need To Know About Muckross Abbey

Kerry: The Best Day Trips You Need To Do

Ireland: What You Need To Know About The Most Exciting Views

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This booking system and any information appearing on this page relating to the availability of any accommodation is provided by third parties and not by VisitScotland. It is intended to provide real time availability information relating to accommodation which is also provided by third parties. You may use this booking system to place direct bookings with third party accommodation providers. Any booking you make will not be placed with VisitScotland and we will have no liability to you in respect of any booking. If you proceed to make a booking you will leave our Website and visit a website owned and operated by a third party. VisitScotland does not have any control over the content or availability of any external website. This booking system and any information appearing on this page is provided for your information and convenience only and is not intended to be an endorsement by VisitScotland of the content of such linked websites, the quality of any accommodation listed, or of the services of any third party.

Happy Tours Scotland Limited

We are a fun, long established, 5 star independent company offering Private day Tours from Inverness, the stunning capital city of the Highlands of Scotland. Happy Tours Scotland operates 7 days a week, 365 days a year and provided fantastic private day trips on a pre-arranged itinerery or a personalised basis

Our friendly, experienced and fully-trained Happy Tours Scotland family of guides are incredibly passionate about this beautiful location, and have a wealth of knowledge spanning from history, to folklore, to how to dress as an 18th century Highlander! We prefer to use 8-seater vehicles, or a luxury Land Rover  so that our guests can have a chance to get to know our guides and ask questions, creating a first class personal tour. This also allows for flexibility so that our tours can be adapted to suit the needs of the group, and so that there is less limitation when accessing some of the places and sites around the Highlands! Our team of guides are there to help create memories of the stunningly beautiful, mysterious and romantic Highlands of Scotland, so steeped in culture and legend. Let one of our dedicated guides ensure that you see the very best that time will allow, and all whilst having fun, on one of our fantastic Happy Tours. The tours we provide are all private full days tours and are listed here: Isle of Skye from Inverness Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield from Inverness Dunrobin Castle and the Glenmorangie Distillery from Inverness Glenfinnan and The Great Glen from Inverness Cairngorm Mountains from Inverness Speyside Whisky Tour from Inverness Loch Ness 360 Tours from Invermess Ship tours from Invergordon Port Personalised Bespoke Private Tours

Pick-up from:- Front of the Columba Hotel, 7 Ness Walk , Inverness, IV3 5NF or f rom a guests accommodation if on the tour route

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Happy Tours

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Isle of Skye Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

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Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Great Glen Private Tour from Inverness

Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Private Tour from Inverness

Dunrobin Castle and Glenmorangie Distillery - Local Private Tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Happy Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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Scottish highlands tours.

With a selection of tours that range from 1-5 days in length, we are confident that there is a Hairy Coo trip ready to fit in perfectly with your travel plans. Timeframes are no obstacle for us and you’re going to leave Scotland with extensive knowledge of its history, culture and beauty, no matter which of our tours you choose…

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Happy Tours Scotland

Based in Inverness our kilted, friendly, experienced and fully-trained Happy Tours guides are passionate about the Scottish Highlands and promoting it's history and folklore! We use 8-seater luxury minibuses or executive Land Rovers. All tours leave from Inverness and visit destinations like Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield, Dunrobin Castle and the Glenmorangie Distillery, Glenfinnan and The Great Glen, Cairngorm Mountains, Loch Ness 360 and Speyside Whisky Tours. Personalised tours are our speciality for your clients.

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Historical Landmarks and the Ancient People of Scotland

Ever wanted to learn more about your Scottish ancestral connections? Here at Happy Tours, we regularly help visitors learn more about the country and its rich history. People often come looking for the specific places which hold meaning in their lives, others simply wish to learn more about our beautiful country. With so many fascinating historical landmarks in Scotland and so many of you keen to learn their histories, this blog is the perfect primer for a bespoke tour with us.

In this blog, we guide you through some of the most significant historic sites in the Scottish Highlands. We’ll unravel the fascinating stories behind these Scottish landscapes and explore the ancient people of Scotland whom we must thank for them.

Who were the ancient people of Scotland?

When we refer to the ‘ancient’ people of Scotland, we encompass some of the most distant civilisations. This covers the period from the origins of humankind approximately 2.5 million years ago to the end of the Classical Era in the fourth century CE. Furthermore, when referring to ancient people, we encompass civilisations which belong to both the prehistoric (before recorded histories) and ancient historic (from the first recorded histories) eras. This includes civilisations belonging to the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages.

Ancient people of Scotland in the pre-historic era

We know that Scotland has been inhabited by humans since approximately 10,000 BCE, yet little is known of Scotland’s earliest inhabitants before 3000 BCE. Aside from the remains of stone tools and the like, historians have little else to form theories around. By the late Stone Age, it is thought that farmers arrived from elsewhere in Europe intent on cultivating Scottish soil. During this time, known as the Neolithic period or New Stone Age, some of the richest insights into the lives of Scotland’s ancient people were formed. Some of those, the Calanais Stones , are found on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. The Calanais Stones indicate the kind of ceremonious and ritualistic behaviours of the ancient people of Scotland during the Neolithic period. Another of those rich insights which remain today is Skara Brae , formed circa 3000 BCE on the present-day Scottish island of Orkney. The Neolithic village at Skara Brae was constructed of stone but embedded in the existing mounds of the surrounding landscape. This helped to shelter inhabitants from the elements beneath the ground. It is estimated that Skara Brae was inhabited for approximately 600 years before being abandoned…

Pre-historic landmarks in Scotland: Skara Brae

Despite Skara Brae being so well preserved for its age, mystery still surrounds this Neolithic village. After hundreds of years, it appears that the people of Skara Brae abandoned their home, leaving it buried beneath the ground until re-discovery in 1850 CE. The reason for abandonment is speculated by some to have been a devastating storm threatening to bury the village in sand. Historians back up this theory with evidence of personal possessions left behind in haste and preserved ever since. However, others reason that the village was not buried underground by one catastrophic storm but rather by gradual deposition processes. This would indicate that some other threat or perhaps personal preference was behind the village’s abandonment. If you can make it to the island of Orkney after exploring Inverness and the Highland mainland with Happy Tours, we recommend this historic settlement to the keen historians among you.

Historic Bronze Age landmarks in Scotland: Clava Cairns

A short distance from the Highland capital of Inverness, you can find some of Scotland’s most substantial and ancient standing stones and cairns. Clava Cairns , The Bronze Age burial ground, comprises ancient standing stones and tomb complexes nestled in scenic woodland. The site was first used as a graveyard circa 2000 BCE, around the middle of the Bronze Age and remains remarkably complete today. The word Cairn, from Scottish Gaelic, denotes the process of piling up stones as a marker, typically for burials. Prior to the Bronze Age, burial sites would usually house whole communities, however around the time that Clava Cairns was formed, such sites were erected on a more individual level. Therefore, it is possible that the Clava Cairns were used for a few notable individuals rather than their whole community. If you’re interested in seeing Clava Cairns during your visit to Scotland, come along with Happy Tours on a Culloden Battlefield and Loch Ness Tour . Alternatively, feature Clava Cairns as part of your bespoke Private Tour .

Ancient people of Scotland: the Picts

It is believed that early forms of writing were established by the Picts who inhabited the northern and eastern parts of modern-day Scotland throughout Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages. The Pictish people are said to have taken influence from writing systems exposed to them by Roman invaders around 1700 years ago. While the Romans never successfully conquered the North of Scotland, historians and archaeologists believe that Roman influence contributed to the development of Pictish symbols. The series of Pictish symbols can be seen carved into great slabs of stone; one significant example being the Hilton of Cadboll Stone . This stone, currently on display in the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, was originally uncovered north of Inverness at the stone’s eponym, Hilton of Cadboll. A replica of the Pictish stone was erected near the original discovery site which helps us visualise the creation in context. For those interested in the ancient people of Scotland, this location would make a great stop on a private tour .

Other Historical Landmarks in Scotland

Flashing forward to 1746 CE and the Early Modern period, we see revolutionary events of the 1745 Jacobite rebellion end at the Battle of Culloden. This battle between the Jacobites and British Government forces resulted in defeat for the Scottish Jacobites. They had fought and lost defending Charles Edward Stuart, or the Bonnie Prince Charlie’s, claim to the throne. The Culloden Battlefield is a poignant historical landmark in Scotland which features various stones engraved to commemorate the Scottish clans who fought in the Jacobite army. The battlefield is popular with visitors wishing to pay their respects to ancestors with whom they share a surname. If this is something you’ve been considering, Happy Tours visit the battlefield on Culloden Battlefield and Loch Ness Tours as well as on Private Tours .

Private Tours of Historical Landmarks in Scotland

If you’re looking to explore ancestral connections to Scotland, Happy Tours can help you find the historical landmarks that interest you most. Our private tours are incredible opportunities for creating bespoke itineraries and focussing on personal connections. On a private tour, you will also have a choice of vehicle: our minibus or Land Rover. The Happy Tours minibus is ideal for larger groups of up to eight people and facilitates great views over the Scottish landscape for everyone throughout the journey. The Happy Tours Land Rover is a relatively new addition to the family and is exclusively available to private tour customers. The quintessentially British Land Rover accommodates smaller tour groups and offers a touch of luxury.

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Culloden Battlefield & Loch Ness Private Tour From Inverness

Isle of Skye Private Tour from Inverness

Glenfinnan Viaduct and Great Glen Private Tour

Dunrobin Castle & Glenmorangie Distillery Private Tour​

Private Tours from Invergordon Port

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Loch Ness 360 Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

Private Tour of the Cairngorm Mountains

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Happy Tours

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Isle of Skye Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

Speyside Whisky Full Day Private Tour from Inverness

Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Great Glen Private Tour from Inverness

Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Private Tour from Inverness

Dunrobin Castle and Glenmorangie Distillery - Local Private Tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Happy Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)