Private Driver Tours in Scotland
The Highlands, lochs and distilleries without single-track driving or a dram at the wheel.
Get Free Trip QuotesPrivate driver tours in Scotland open up the Highlands, the lochs and the islands without anyone having to tackle single-track roads, left-hand driving or a dram at the wheel. Here is how to plan them.
Why Scotland Suits a Private Driver
- Single-track roads. In the Highlands and on islands such as Skye, many roads are one lane wide with passing places. A local driver knows the etiquette and the timing.
- Long distances. The places on most wish lists, from Glen Coe to Loch Ness and the far north, are hours apart and thinly served by public transport.
- Whisky. Scotland’s drink-drive limit is lower than the one in England and Wales. With a driver, the whole group can enjoy distillery tastings.
- Weather. Mist, rain and short winter days make an experienced driver worth having.
Popular Routes for Private Driver Tours in Scotland
Day trips from Edinburgh or Glasgow often head for Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, Stirling Castle, or the fishing villages of Fife. Longer private driver tours in Scotland usually go north through Glen Coe to Fort William and on to Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye or the Cairngorms. The North Coast 500, a signed touring route around the northern Highlands, is another favorite; it is long, remote and much easier with someone else at the wheel.
Speyside, with its cluster of distilleries along the River Spey, and the islands of Islay and Orkney appeal to whisky and history lovers, though islands mean ferries, so ask your driver how crossings are booked and who pays the fare for the vehicle.
Licensing in Scotland
Scotland does not have a single national licence for chauffeurs. Under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, each council acts as the licensing authority for taxis and private hire cars in its own area, sets its own conditions and checks that vehicles are fit for use. When you book, ask which council licensed the driver and the car, and check that the driver holds the commercial insurance needed to carry paying passengers. If you are joining a cruise in Scotland or arriving by ship, see our worldwide and cruise page for port-day planning.
Planning Tips
- Summer days are long in the north, so you can see a lot; winter days are short, so plan fewer stops.
- Midges can be fierce in summer in the west Highlands; pack repellent for walks.
- Book castles, distilleries and island ferries in advance in peak season.
- Agree what happens if the weather closes a road or cancels a ferry.
Comparing Scotland with Ireland? Many travelers combine them. See our Ireland page, then ask a specialist to plan both.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a single-track road?
A road one vehicle wide, with passing places where you pull in to let oncoming traffic or faster vehicles by. They are common in the Highlands and on the islands and take patience and local know-how to drive well.
Who licenses private hire drivers in Scotland?
Each local council runs its own licensing for taxis and private hire cars under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982. A licensed driver and vehicle should carry the badge and plate issued by that council.
Can a private driver take us to whisky distilleries?
Yes, and it is one of the most popular reasons to hire one. Book distillery tours ahead, as many limit numbers, and tell your driver the times.
Plan Private Driver Tours in Scotland
Tell us where in Scotland you want to go, your dates and your interests, from castles to whisky. A travel specialist will plan your driver days and send free quotes.
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