McKinlay Kidd

McKinlay Kidd Holidays made differently in Scotland, Ireland, England, Wales & The Channel Islands. That’s what we mean by holidays made differently.
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McKinlay Kidd, launched in 2003 by husband and wife team Robert Kidd and Heather McKinlay, is dedicated to helping independently-minded visitors get the most out of their holiday. We started out in true small-business style in the dining room of our (then) Edinburgh home, and now employ a team of more than a dozen, mainly based at our office in central Glasgow. From day one, our principle has been

that we won’t send you anywhere we haven’t been ourselves. Initially we focussed on helping our customers to see Scotland differently, with a range of creative holiday suggestions that could be tailored to specific requirements. We added Ireland in 2010, England in 2016, Wales in 2018 and most recently the Channel Islands on 2022. Heather is half-Scottish, half-English, while Robert is Irish, and between the two of us we have lived for at least 20 years in each country. We started the company because we wanted to help visitors see beyond the landscapes and tourist hotspots of these lands, whether of our birth (England and Ireland) or our present-day home (Scotland).

This week is National Heritage Week in Ireland ☘️This annual nationwide celebration is the perfect time to learn more ab...
20/08/2024

This week is National Heritage Week in Ireland ☘️

This annual nationwide celebration is the perfect time to learn more about Irish cultures and traditions with this year's theme being 'Connections, Routes and Networks'.

Many national and local community organisations come together to organise events throughout the country and the heritage open-door event invites individuals to enter buildings rarely open to the public.

We wanted to share a few of our favourite Irish gems to experience:

📍 Enjoy lively jigs and bittersweet folk tunes in the company of world-class traditional musicians in Ennis - Ireland's famous city of traditional music.

📍 Travel to the spiritual Aran Islands and explore over 50 different monuments of Christian, pre-Christian and Celtic heritage.

📍 Visit St George's Market, one of Belfast's oldest attractions built between 1890 and 1896 and sample the delights of the Friday, Saturday or Sunday markets.

📷 Tourism Ireland

Leave the car behind and experience a carefree holiday that will enable you to get right under the skin of our destinati...
16/08/2024

Leave the car behind and experience a carefree holiday that will enable you to get right under the skin of our destinations ✈️🚆🌊

Being car-free doesn't mean giving up your independence: we can ensure your McKinlay Kidd getaway is the trip of a lifetime.

Let us use our local knowledge to match up ferry, flight and train timetables so that you can sit back, relax and focus on making memories to cherish.

Hop aboard Scotland's famous West Highland Line and take in the breathtaking views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct from the comfort of your train carriage.

Or perhaps experience the very best of the Channel Islands, travelling by rail, ferry and air, soaking in the unique culture and history and meeting friendly locals along the way.

The secret is in the planning and that's where we come in - check out our full range of car-free holidays by visiting this link: https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/car-free-holidays/

If you can't find what you're looking for, let us tailor-make your trip to suit your exact requirements 👀

📷 MKK & Norman Mcnab

With over 600 castles, three national parks and four UNESCO Heritage Sites, wonderful Wales is waiting to be discovered....
14/08/2024

With over 600 castles, three national parks and four UNESCO Heritage Sites, wonderful Wales is waiting to be discovered.. 🏰🌼🌿

Crossing the border into Welsh territory, you can expect to uncover turbulent history, explore endless empty beaches and visit the most charming towns and villages.

Wander around the UK's only coastal National Park at Pembrokeshire, set around stunning St Bride's Bay.

Travel to the historic seaside town of Tenby, with its 13th-century walls and eerie stories of smuggling and piracy.

Maybe even visit the village with the longest place name in the UK on the way to Isle of Anglesey, swipe to see if you can pronounce it 👉

Contact us for full details on our range of McKinlay Kidd holidays in Wales 💻: https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/wales/

📷Visit Wales

Overflowing with jaw-dropping scenery from giant mountain ranges to wild, windswept beaches, to deep lochs and magnifice...
12/08/2024

Overflowing with jaw-dropping scenery from giant mountain ranges to wild, windswept beaches, to deep lochs and magnificent castles 🏰🏝🌊

Can you guess where we are describing? 👀

The Scottish Highlands are one of the most sparsely populated areas in Europe.

You can drive for miles along spectacular roads in the West highlands or gaze from your train window over the isolated beauty of Sutherland's Flow Country and not see a soul.

You might like to explore lovely Perthshire with its rushing rivers and misty glens, perhaps visiting nearby Blair Castle for an impressive insight into Scottish social history.

Or why not head for Applecross to take in the stunning views across to Skye and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at the inn?🦪🍤

With so much to discover in the Scottish Highlands, your perfect holiday is out there. Visit the link below to browse our full range or contact us to tailor-make your own unique adventure.

💻 - https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/scotland/scottish-highlands/

📷 Visit Scotland

Explore the best of Scotland's North Coast and Orkney on a guided small-group tour that combines breathtaking vistas wit...
09/08/2024

Explore the best of Scotland's North Coast and Orkney on a guided small-group tour that combines breathtaking vistas with great rail trips 🚂🌅

From Britain's oldest human imprints to Scotland's geographical extremities, uncover fascinating history, culture and local stories in the company of your expert guide.

Begin your McKinlay Kidd rail adventure on the world-renowned Far North Line before travelling to Orkney and finishing with a night in the small historic town of Dornoch.

We have limited places on our September departure. Or if you're thinking about a holiday for next year - reserve your place on a 2025 departure today.

Visit our website for more details 💻: https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/scotland-tours/north-highlands-orkney-guided-rail-tour/

Have you ever heard of Scotland's West Coast 500? 🚗🌅🌊While the North Coast has achieved incredible popularity as a kind ...
08/08/2024

Have you ever heard of Scotland's West Coast 500? 🚗🌅🌊

While the North Coast has achieved incredible popularity as a kind of Caledonian Route 66, Scotland boats so many other wonderfully scenic meandering roads

Unique to McKinlay Kidd, head west away from the crowds and embark on an unforgettable odyssey through Argyll and the West Highlands.

You can expect awesome asphalt, coastal curves and agreeable accommodation - all you need to do is pack your sense of adventure and set off!

Your McKinlay Kidd holiday can be personalised to your requirements. Do you want to make a detour or a pitstop on the way? Just let us know and we can work this into your holiday 📍

P.S We love this road trip in October, the autumn colours don't disappoint🍂🍁

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/scotland-holidays/scotland-west-coast-500-road-trip/

Named after one of McKinlay Kidd's founders, Robert's Recommendations empower you to get under the skin of the destinati...
07/08/2024

Named after one of McKinlay Kidd's founders, Robert's Recommendations empower you to get under the skin of the destination you are visiting 🍽🗺

Over the last 21 years our team have spent days and weeks out and about identifying the best hidden gems to visit all across Scotland, Ireland England, Wales & the Channel Islands.

Whether you're on a quest for social history, seeking a scenic walk with unparalleled views or looking for somewhere to sample the freshest local cuisine, browse through our top tips and team favourites.

Discover the best local places to eat, shop, hike, engage with the culture and explore at your leisure 👣🛍️

Book a tailor-made trip with McKinlay Kidd and we’ll share Robert’s Recommendations with you a few weeks before you set off so you can make the most of your holiday time.

Interested in learning more about the benefits of booking a McKinlay Kidd holiday? Get in touch by visiting our website.

02/08/2024

Let us know what's on your dream list and we'll use our local knowledge to tailor-make a trip just for you across the UK, Ireland & the Channel Islands ✈️👋

We love unique holiday suggestions at McKinlay Kidd, tell us what inspires you and leave the rest up to us.

Whether you want to trace back your family history and visit a fabled ancestral home, visit your favourite film location or sample a dram of whisky at the distillery where it's crafted - let us design a trip that caters to your interests.

With 21 years of tailor-made travel experience, we use our local on-the-ground expertise to plan to bring your ideal McKinlay Kidd trip to life 🥃🏰👑

Get in touch today and start the holiday planning for 2024 or 2025: https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/tailor-made-enquiry/ 💻

Experience the very best of the West Country and seductive southwest England 🌊🚂Interested in uncovering some of the UK's...
01/08/2024

Experience the very best of the West Country and seductive southwest England 🌊🚂

Interested in uncovering some of the UK's most evocative locations with a small group of like-minded travellers? 🧳👣

Starting in historic Bath, immerse yourself in the city's 2000-year-wonder of the Roman Baths, before a day of discovery exploring mystical Stonehenge and magnificent Salisbury Cathedral.

Visit the historic Ocean city of Plymouth on your way to captivating St Ives, where some of Cornwall's most bewitching landmarks await you.

Explore England's westernmost point at Land's End, visit the incredible cliffside Minack Theatre and wander through the classic Cornish village of Mousehole.

This guided small group tour is perfect for a cosy autumn getaway, with limited places departing 1st of September and 6th of October 🍂🍁

If you're looking to book further ahead, secure your preferred 2025 date today.

Reserve your place here 💻👇 https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/england-tours/bath-devon-and-cornwall-small-group-rail-tour/

📷 Visit Britain

After an almost 40-year campaign, Scotland's Flow Country has been awarded World Heritage Status 🌱🌏Stretching across Cai...
30/07/2024

After an almost 40-year campaign, Scotland's Flow Country has been awarded World Heritage Status 🌱🌏

Stretching across Caithness and Sutherland in the far north of Scotland, The Flow Country is renowned as Europe's largest expanse of blanket bog.

🌱 Found in only a few parts of the world, blanket bogs are wetland ecosystems created when peat - a soil made up of partially decayed matter, accumulates in drenched conditions.

🌱 The 4,000 sq km area is home to a host of insects and rare birds as well as an array of unusual plants, acting as an important defence against climate change.

🌱 It has been estimated that the entire ecosystem could contain as much as 400m tonnes of carbon.

Have you experienced the magnificent Flow Country yet? Plan it within a drive around Scotland's North Coast 500 or enjoy as part of a rail tour 🚗🚆

Have you ever experienced a journey on Britain's most northerly railway? 🗺🚂On the 28th of July, the Far North Line will ...
25/07/2024

Have you ever experienced a journey on Britain's most northerly railway? 🗺🚂

On the 28th of July, the Far North Line will be celebrating the 150th anniversary of the opening of the final stretch of track, from Helmsdale to Thurso and Wick.

Largely financed by the Earl of Caithness and the Duke of Sutherland - the Far North Line was built in stages from 1862 and finally opened all the way from Inverness to Wick in 1874.

The Far North line even welcomed the Prince and Princess of Wales onboard in 1876 when they made their first visit to the north - journeying to Thurso, the most northerly town on the British mainland.

If you hop aboard the Far North Line today, you can expect spectacular coastal scenery and stop-offs at the most unlikely remote stations 🛤️🌊

24/07/2024

Traditional Irish music in a breathtakingly beautiful spot along the Wild Atlantic Way, what more could you ask for ☘️💚

Scotland's dramatic wilderness is teeming with hundreds of magnificent creatures - you just need to know where to look 👀...
22/07/2024

Scotland's dramatic wilderness is teeming with hundreds of magnificent creatures - you just need to know where to look 👀🌿

Boasting one of the most diverse ecosystems in Britain, Scotland's wildlife ranges from puffins and eagles, to otters, red deer, dolphins and minke whales.

Whether you're exploring Mull's rugged coastline or prefer to stay on the mainland with a visit to the unspoiled landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park, keep your eyes peeled and get ready to snap a picture.

Here are a few of our favourite wildlife pictures that have been taken by the McKinlay Kidd team 📷

What animals would you like to spot in Scotland? 🐾

Have you ever visited the enchanted Isles of Scilly? 🏝️🌊England's enthralling archipelago lies just off the coast of Cor...
19/07/2024

Have you ever visited the enchanted Isles of Scilly? 🏝️🌊

England's enthralling archipelago lies just off the coast of Cornwall on the UK mainland. Scilly is made up of five inhabited islands St Martin's, Tresco, Bryher, St Mary's and St Agnes plus countless uninhabited isles to discover.

Explore the secluded sandy bay of St Martin's and enjoy the feeling of sand between your toes as you gaze out to the crystal-clear waters.

Climb the hill to the Elizabethan Garrison of Star Castle on St Mary's - built in 1593 during the reign of Queen Elizabeth.

Wander through the captivating sub-tropical Abbey Gardens on Tresco, a sanctuary for some 2,000 plants from Brazil to New Zealand; Myanmar to South Africa.

Find out about our full range of McKinlay Kidd holidays on the alluring Atlantic archipelago of Scilly by visiting the link below 👇

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/england/isles-of-scilly/

Discover some of the most dazzling details of Ireland in the company of an expert guide 🚆☘️✨Explore Dublin, one of the g...
17/07/2024

Discover some of the most dazzling details of Ireland in the company of an expert guide 🚆☘️✨

Explore Dublin, one of the great European capitals, followed by ebullient Belfast and finishing off in the vibrant city of Derry-Londonderry.

Join like-minded travellers as you discover the UNESCO World Heritage site the Giant's Causeway before sampling the finest local cuisine on a guided food tour in Belfast.

Set off on a private guided walking tour of Derry-Londonderry where you will visit the 16th-century city walls, the largest monument in state care in Northern Ireland.

There is no better way to experience Ireland's rich history and friendly culture than with the help of a local guide.

This tour has sold out for 2024 but our 2025 departure dates are now on sale, visit the link below to secure your place for next year 👇

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/ireland-tours/dublin-belfast-causeway-coast-small-group-tour/

📷Tourism Ireland & McKinlay Kidd

Scotland's breathtaking scenery and rugged landscapes create the perfect backdrop for the camera 🎥🏰⛰️Can you name any fa...
16/07/2024

Scotland's breathtaking scenery and rugged landscapes create the perfect backdrop for the camera 🎥🏰⛰️

Can you name any famous Scottish film locations? Here are a few of the most well-known films and TV series shot in Scotland.

🟣 James Bond's 'Skyfall' was filmed in spectacular Glen Coe, which saw Bond returning to his Scottish roots. Fun fact is the family of Ian Fleming, James Bond's creator actually owned a lodge in Glen Etive, located next to Glen Coe.

🟣 The popular BBC crime drama 'Shetland' was unsurprisingly mainly filmed in Shetland, particularly in its capital 'Lerwick'. But did you know that many interior scenes were shot in Glasgow?

🟣 Marvel's blockbuster superhero franchise visited Edinburgh in 2018 to film 'Avengers: Infinity War'. Edinburgh's familiar cobbled streets were transformed into a superhero frenzy, featuring locations such as Waverley Station and The Royal Mile.

🟣 Bill Forsyth's 1983 film 'Local Hero' was set in a fictional town supposedly on Scotland's West Coast. Although the beach scenes were filmed in Camusdarach on the West Coast, the town scenes were actually shot in the Aberdeenshire village of Pennan.

Interested in visiting these iconic Scottish filming locations? Contact us today and start planning your Scottish adventure, maybe even tailor-making a holiday to suit your unique requirements.

📷Visit Scotland & McKinlay Kidd

Tour Scotland's other worlds on a week-long journey of northern discovery 🗺️👣Get up close and personal with the contrast...
12/07/2024

Tour Scotland's other worlds on a week-long journey of northern discovery 🗺️👣

Get up close and personal with the contrasting islands of Orkney and Shetland, accompanied by your knowledgeable McKinlay Kidd guide on this 2024 sell-out small group tour.

Hear tales of mystery, battles and intrigue as you learn about the history of these two archipelagos, from Neolithic man through the Bronze Age to the Vikings.

Visit the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe and Skara Brae and explore the Italian Chapel, constructed during WW2.

Encounter the natural beauty of Eshaness in Shetland, gaze over one of Scotland’s finest views, taking in the drama of the cliffs and sea.

This tour has sold out completely for this year so book early to secure your place on 2025 departure dates now on sale. Visit the link below for more details 👇

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/scotland-tours/orkney-shetland-guided-small-group-tour/

We'll help you see Ireland differently because we know Ireland intimately 💚☘️Have you ever considered visiting the spect...
11/07/2024

We'll help you see Ireland differently because we know Ireland intimately 💚☘️

Have you ever considered visiting the spectacular Emerald Isle? We know where to find the special places to see, stay and visit in Ireland.. and the most enjoyable ways of getting there.

Pack your sense of adventure and head North on a road trip along the Antrim Coast, stopping off at the atmospheric Dunluce Castle and the fascinating Mussenden Temple, not forgetting the legendary Giant's Causeway.

If driving isn't for you, discover Ireland by rail. We have teamed up with local driver-guides to provide a choice of itineraries which help link-up between the train lines. Perhaps travel along some of Ireland's famous coastal touring route, The Wild Atlantic Way on a McKinlay Kidd car-free holiday.

Maybe you want to visit some of the lesser-known Irish Islands? Achill Island, Clare Island, the Aran Islands and Rathlin Island tick all of these boxes and more.

There has never been a better time to plan your next Irish exploration, click the link below to find out more 💻👇

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/ireland/

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is coming to Oban for the first time ever..🌊⛵Clipper Round the World Yacht Race  ...
09/07/2024

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is coming to Oban for the first time ever..🌊⛵

Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is known as the toughest endurance challenge on the planet, sailors spend eleven months circumnavigating across the world's oceans on board a 70ft race yacht.

For the first time in its 27-year history, The Clipper Race will dock in Scotland, scheduled to arrive at North Pier Pontoons in Oban on Friday 12 July.

Oban will be the last stop before the finish line and will mark the end of the North Atlantic crossing, with the sailors having crossed six oceans and sailed almost 40,000 nautical miles.

Will you be in Oban from the 12th-16th of July on a McKinlay Kidd holiday? Come and visit the world's largest matched fleet of ocean racing yachts and their extraordinary crews as they arrive at the docks marking the end of their penultimate race across the North Atlantic.

Check out 's full programme of events for ideas on how to spend your time in Oban during this exciting period.

We'll see you there 👋

📷The Clipper Race

Dazzling white cliffs, postcard-perfect villages and the wildest collection of Moorland 🌊🌅Devon and Cornwall are two of ...
07/07/2024

Dazzling white cliffs, postcard-perfect villages and the wildest collection of Moorland 🌊🌅

Devon and Cornwall are two of England's most beloved coastal gems. With verdant countryside and secluded coves, its no surprise that artists and writers have been attracted to this area for hundreds of years.

Visit Land's End the most westerly point of England and capture the beauty of the 200-foot-high granite cliffs that rise out of the Atlantic Ocean.

Take a journey across North Devon on the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway - the highest and steepest fully water-powered cliff railway, with some of the most spectacular coastal views.

Perhaps spend a day at the world-renowned Eden Project in Cornwall, discovering the wild landscapes that house Europe's largest collection of useful plants - from food crops to medicines.

We have carefully curated a range of self-drive and train holidays to help you explore the best of scenic Devon and Cornwall.

Looking for a small-group guided tour? Reserve your place on the Bath, Devon & Cornwall Small Group Rail Tour now by visiting our website

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/england/devon-cornwall/👆💻

📷 Visit Britain

If you're looking for fresh air, fresh food and perhaps even a fresh perspective on life, our 'Wee Scottish island' holi...
05/07/2024

If you're looking for fresh air, fresh food and perhaps even a fresh perspective on life, our 'Wee Scottish island' holidays may be for you 🏝️👣

Scottish Islands are famous all around the world, from the magical string of the Outer Hebrides to the ancient history of Orkney and Shetland. But among the hundreds of islands scattered off the jagged coastline lie some that are less renowned, that we like to call 'wee isles'.

Perhaps climb to the top of Ben Hogh on the Isle of Coll, only 106 metres high but offering spectacular panoramic views of the neighbouring Scottish islands.

Looking for some down time? Pack a picnic to Kiloran Bay on Colonsay, known as one of the loveliest beaches in the Hebrides.

Plan a visit to the glorious Achamore Gardens and explore the 54 acres of beautiful landscapes, featuring unusual plants from around the world.

With lots to explore, you can decide how to spend you time on the wee Scottish isles. If you can't find what you are looking for, get in contact and we can tailor-make your perfect getaway 📞💻

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/scotland/wee-scottish-islands/

Experience the Channel Islands' greatest hits accompanied by an expert McKinlay Kidd guide 🌊👣Learn about the three disti...
03/07/2024

Experience the Channel Islands' greatest hits accompanied by an expert McKinlay Kidd guide 🌊👣

Learn about the three distinctively different islands of Guernsey, Sark and Jersey by soaking in the rich history and learning about their unique culture.

With so much to explore on this Gallic-influenced archipelago, your journey begins in Guernsey with fascinating visits to a medieval castle and A WW2 German-occupied Underground Hospital.

Setting sail to Sark where life moves at a slower pace, with no paved roads or street lighting you can enjoy a coastal stroll off the beaten path to Sarkhenge.

Your time in Jersey will include exploring the 800-year-old fortress of Mount Orgueil Castle and the wonderfully atmospheric Jersey War Tunnels.

With limited places left in 2024 departures in September and October, secure your place on this popular small group tour now.

Looking to book ahead? Reserve your place today for our 2025 departures 📞💻

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/channel-islands-tours/the-channel-islands-small-group-tour/

A scenic rail journey exploring the Capital of the Highlands and historic Pitlochry 🚆📍Check out our newest blog by Marke...
01/07/2024

A scenic rail journey exploring the Capital of the Highlands and historic Pitlochry 🚆📍

Check out our newest blog by Marketing & Content Executive Joanna on her short action-packed adventure through Inverness and Pitlochry.

Featuring ancient castles rich with history, fascinating local landmarks and a visit to a book lovers paradise.

Read the full blog below, it might even give you some inspiration for your next trip 🏰👣

https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/blog/a-rail-journey-exploring-the-capital-of-the-highlands-historic-pitlochry-in/

Creating memories that last a lifetime is what a McKinlay Kidd holiday is all about ✈️✨Our team work hard behind the sce...
27/06/2024

Creating memories that last a lifetime is what a McKinlay Kidd holiday is all about ✈️✨

Our team work hard behind the scenes to bring your ideal holiday to life. We love hearing about the highlights of your trip and your unique experiences throughout.

Read some recent reviews below accompanied by fantastic images from some of our customers.

Are you going on a McKinlay Kidd holiday this year? Don't forget to tag us in your posts McKinlay Kidd 📷

Travel to the edge of the Atlantic to the cradle of Gaelic life accompanied by your expert McKinlay Kidd guide 📍🗺️ Uncov...
25/06/2024

Travel to the edge of the Atlantic to the cradle of Gaelic life accompanied by your expert McKinlay Kidd guide 📍🗺️

Uncover the wealth of sights and stories along the length and breadth of the Outer Hebrides on this week-long exclusive guided tour.

Learn about Stornoway's fascinating island culture and history, from crofting and wool working to locally renowned poets and artists as well as the role the islands played in the two world wars.

Take in the rugged views and thriving local wildlife, well-known for sea otters, seals and wild birds. Visit the 5000-year-old Callanish standing stones, older than the pyramids.

Explore the white sand and turquoise waters of Luskentyre Beach in Harris, finishing the day with a glass in hand at Harris Distillery.

Contact us to reserve your place today for departure in July 2024. And 2025 departures are now on sale if you are looking to plan ahead for next year 📆📞

📷 McKinlay Kidd & Visit Scotland

Food and drink are high on our list of what makes a good holiday at McKinlay Kidd 🍽🥃We've combined some of our favourite...
21/06/2024

Food and drink are high on our list of what makes a good holiday at McKinlay Kidd 🍽🥃

We've combined some of our favourite foodie experiences with stunning scenic routes to create the perfect getaway.

What better way to try Scotland's coastal cuisine than on a McKinlay Kidd Scottish Seafood Trail? 🦪

Expect a hands-on seafood demo led by a hugely experienced chef - followed by a boat trip with a Creel fisherman, watching as he hauls in langoustines and brown crabs.

Maybe you've been waiting to try Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way? ☘️

With fabulous food and one of the world's greatest touring routes, the Wild Atlantic Way Food Trail could be the perfect adventure for you. Enjoy unique escorted experiences, such as a guided seaweed trail, a private tour around Co Cork's own buffalo farm and much more.

It is officially the first day of summer! 🌞🌻☀️Although the days have been getting lighter earlier, summer doesn't actual...
20/06/2024

It is officially the first day of summer! 🌞🌻☀️

Although the days have been getting lighter earlier, summer doesn't actually begin in the Northern Hemisphere until the summer solstice, which is also known as the longest day of the year.

The solstice is the exact time of the day that the Earth is closest to the sun, many people celebrate with festivals and traditions and often a visit to the mystical Stonehenge to watch the sunrise above the stones.

We hope you can enjoy the extra hours of daylight from wherever you are, maybe even catching the sunrise or sunset.

We love watching the sun set at McKinlay Kidd, swipe to see a few of our favourite shots from across the UK and Ireland 🌅

See Scotland's most distinctive lochs and mountains as you journey along the world-renowned West Highland Line 🚂⛰️Take i...
17/06/2024

See Scotland's most distinctive lochs and mountains as you journey along the world-renowned West Highland Line 🚂⛰️

Take in the 'Best of Scotland' as you set off on your travels escorted by your expert McKinlay Kidd guide, experiencing the scenic tranquillity of Rannoch Moor as you go.

Visit the dramatic Urquhart Castle, encountering stunning views over Loch Ness and the hills of the Great Glen, before stepping aboard the award-winning Jacobite Express steam train.

Experience the peaks and peninsulas of Skye as you complete your adventure on the West Highland Line, discovering the Inner Hebrides and learning about Skye's fascinating history and culture.

Enjoy one final stopover in Inverness, the 'Capital of the Highlands' as your tour concludes with another grand train journey, finishing in Edinburgh. 🏙️📍

Reserve your place now for departures in 2024 - last places remaining. If you're looking to book for next year - check out 2025 dates now on sale. https://www.mckinlaykidd.com/scotland-tours/loch-ness-jacobite-skye-guided-rail-tour/

📷 VisitScotland & McKinlay Kidd

There is no better way to traverse Ireland's renowned Wild Atlantic Way than on a guided rail tour. ☘️🚂🌊See the grand si...
15/06/2024

There is no better way to traverse Ireland's renowned Wild Atlantic Way than on a guided rail tour. ☘️🚂🌊

See the grand sights of the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry, delving into each location as you travel part of the 2,500 km-long coastal route escorted by your expert McKinlay Kidd guide.

Enjoy a short ferry ride to the ancient Aran Islands, taking in the jigsaw pieces of grey rock that rise out of the ocean in Inis Mor and visiting the early ruins of Christianity as you explore piles of shale and rebuilt chapels.

Experience Ennis, Ireland's famous city of traditional music and spend time with local musicians as you are transported through the times and lands of Ireland with lovely jigs and bittersweet folk tunes.

Make the most of your time on the Emerald Isle on a guided rail tour, surrounded by like-minded travellers. With limited availability for departures in August - reserve your space now.

Don't forget that we also have 2025 departures on sale if you're looking to plan ahead for next year.. 📞📅

Address

144 St Vincent Street
Glasgow
G25LQ

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 6pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 6pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 6pm
Thursday 8:30am - 6pm
Friday 8:30am - 6pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+441412609260

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McKinlay Kidd, launched in 2003 by husband and wife team Robert Kidd and Heather McKinlay, is dedicated to helping independently-minded visitors get the most out of their holiday. We started out in true small-business style in the dining room of our (then) Edinburgh home, and now employ a team of more than a dozen, mainly based at our office in central Glasgow. From day one, our principle has been that we won’t send you anywhere we haven’t been ourselves. Initially we focussed on helping our customers to see Scotland differently, with a range of creative holiday suggestions that could be tailored to specific requirements. We added Ireland in 2010 before adding England to our programme, and most recently, we have started offering holidays in Wales. Heather is half-Scottish, half-English, while Robert is Irish, and between the two of us we have lived for at least 20 years in each country. We started the company because we wanted to help visitors see beyond the landscapes and tourist hotspots of these lands, whether of our birth (England and Ireland) or our present-day home (Scotland). That’s what we mean by holidays made differently.

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