Grand Tour of Scotland by Train Traveller Reviews

We took M-K’s Grand Tour of Scotland by Rail in July 2025. At first, we balked because of the price. But, as I tried to piece things together myself, it quickly became clear that there could well be some value in the McKinley-Kidd package. There was more than “some!” They listened to our priorities, our concerns, and our wants in a vacation. They worked within our maximum limits to provide us options we’d never considered. Our lodging at every stop was comfortable, clean and homey. Our hosts were delightful - whether a luxury hotel, or a country inn. Our excursions were fascinating! M-K arranged for our guides, who adapted the experiences to ensure we got to do what we prioritized! At one point, one of them said, “I know you didn’t put this on your list of priorities. But, we’re going right by, and it would be tragic to get home and tell people you missed it. Let’s pop by…and see what you think. We topped a short walking trail to encounter one of the most beautiful sights we saw the entire trip! When we show people that one photograph…everyone exclaims at the beauty of the place. He was right! We would regretted that. Every guide was like that: informative, helpful, and watched out for our best interest in their area. At one point, we missed a train connection. One phone call and M-K was on it! In 5 mins, they’d arranged a taxi ride for us to our next spot! And THAT guy was a hoot!! Anytime we needed them, M-K was there. We’ve now had four weeks to recover and reflect. We both agree. We’re going back, and we’ll likely use McKinley-Kidd again, and see what other customizations we can do to our tour! (They’ll work out any that you want to make!)

I can’t imagine having anyone better, or more caring.

Train travel was an easy way to see Scotland. It took the stress out of 2 weeks on the road! Planned excursions meant we didn’t miss having a car.

Well organised and timing was right for the trips we made. Perfect weather did help. McKK seemed to have the right contacts.

We had a wonderful time, touring Scotland by train, all organized by McKinley Kidd.

Proficient and organized

Everything was meticulously planned and executed by McKinlay Kidd for this tour. All we needed to do was show up and follow the itinerary. It was one of the easiest trips ever and allowed us to travel all around Scotland. Many of the locals we met were jealous of how much of the country we were seeing. The hotels are all first rate and everyone was so friendly and helpful. We had no problems on our holiday, but were confident in McKinlay Kidd's ability to address them should the need arise.

McKinlay Kidd is a definitely a top-notch tour operator. Everyone who dealt with them had only praise for their thoroughness and planning. We would 100 percent use them again.

Loved staying in the guest houses. Vamoose was a valuable tool.

They did a great job setting up our reservations.

The Grand Train Tour of Scotland gave me a well thought out, well organized tour of Scotland using mainly trains and Ferries for transportation. Each accommodation was unique and provided excellent service, gorgeous rooms and amenities, excellent food, and top of the line comfort. The side trips were fascinating and full of information presented by excellent guides. I can't imagine a better way to see Scotland!

McKinlay Kidd was quite to answer any questions I had and went out of their way to ensure that all of my needs were met. Their professional staff is friendly and always made me feel welcome!

An astonishing visit and stay in ten Scottish locations (Glasgow, Oban, Fort William, Portree, Plockton, Inverness, Thurso, Carrbridge, Pitlochry, and Edinburgh) with special tours of Mull/Staffa/Iona, Skye, and the Orkneys.

A remarkable 16 days with EVERY detail of transportation, lodging, and excursions handled with precision, care, and detail. They also included wonderful recommendations and resources for each of the stops. LOVED every minute!

We visited Scotland, using the Grand Tour Of Scotland by Rail option of McKinley Kidd. First visit to that part of the world and thoroughly enjoyed it. Well organized. Excellent small tour operatives. Truly felt welcome and at home in all the accommodations. Train trips were wonderful.

Everything well organized. All glitches addressed. We felt spoiled and well cared for, even when we never met the operators in person.

Best ever.

MKK secured beautiful accommodations, sorted out all the rail & ferry travel & arranged three wonderful day tours for us.

We spent an amazing two weeks traveling by train around the entire country of Scotland. McKinlay Kidd provided a fantastic trip itinerary that included options we personally chose (castle stay, fly-fishing trip). It was a trip of a lifetime.

Outstanding backside support during our vacation-when trains were delayed or cancelled, they handled everything. Well worth the money for the trip!