Scotland is a land steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Imagine immersing yourself in the breathtaking Highlands, exploring stunning Lochs, ancient Castles, and discovering hidden gems off the beaten path.

Our private day tours cater for groups and families with children of all ages. We understand the importance of creating a fun and engaging experience for everyone, from toddlers to teenagers. Our experienced guides will ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all, we've compiled essential tips to help you prepare for your Scottish journey:

Tour Protocol and Timing

To make the most of your tour we advise you to begin promptly at the scheduled time and adhere to break period set by your guide. Delays may impact the itinerary, potentially requiring amendments or cancellations of planned stops.

Weather and Clothing

Scotland's weather is renowned for its unpredictability, with sudden downpours and changeable conditions. To adapt seamlessly, we recommend to pack: 

• For wintertime; layers of clothing to adapt to changing conditions 
• Waterproof jackets and sweaters are essential for staying warm and dry, especially in the Highlands
• Comfortable walking shoes are also a must for exploring trails and attractions.

Road Conditions

Scottish roads, particularly in the Highlands, are known for their winding routes and narrow lanes. Therefore, we will provide frequent breaks to stretch and minimise motion sickness concerns.

Kids Safety and Child Car Seats

The law in Scotland takes kid safety seriously, especially when it comes to car rides. Here's a summary of the key points:

• Required: Children must use a car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first.
• Exceptions: There are a few limited exceptions to the car seat requirement, such as if the child has a medical condition that prevents them from using one.

Seat Belts

• Required: Children who are over 12 years old or over 135cm tall must wear an adult seat belt.
• Booster Seats: Although not legally required, it's recommended for children to use a booster seat until they are 150cm tall, as it provides better positioning of the seat belt.

General Responsibilities:

• Driver's Duty: Our drivers have a duty of care to ensure all passengers, including children, are safely restrained and transported.
• Parents' Duty: As a parent and guardian, you are responsible for ensuring your children are transported safely, which includes choosing the correct car seat and ensuring it's properly installed and used.

We offer one free baby seat and one child seat for your convenience. Please let us know in advance to guarantee availability. Our friendly guide is happy to help install car seats and answer any questions you might have.

Motion Sickness and Spare Clothes

Address Motion Sickness Proactively: 

• For passengers who normally suffers from motion sickness, bring medication that works for you
• Pack spare clothes for younger ones as it will come in handy

Planned Meal Breaks

Our carefully planned itinerary includes designated snack breaks at local cafes and restaurants, ensuring everyone is well-nourished and energised throughout the day. However, we suggest packing snacks, and sandwiches to Keep energy levels up and prevent hunger pangs. This is especially important for young children who may tire more easily.

Avoid Table Service – Sit-down meals takes a lot of time in busy locations, opting for quick takeaway is recommended. This choice allows you to optimise exploration time instead of waiting for lengthy meal service, ensuring you make the most of every moment amidst Scotland's beauty.

Additional Tips for Families

1. Bring Entertainment for Kids: Keep young children entertained during the drive and between stops with activities and games. Colouring books, puzzles, or portable games can provide hours of fun.
2. Involve Children in the Planning: Engage your children in the planning process, asking for their input on the tour itinerary and activities. This will make them feel more invested in the trip, enhancing their enjoyment.
3. Recharge and Reconnect: Embrace the Breaks! We've carefully woven frequent breaks into your itinerary, not just for pit stops, but for you to truly immerse yourselves in the Scottish experience. These breaks are your chance to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh air, and soak in the scenery. Take a walk along a loch, climb a hill for panoramic views, or simply relax and chat with your family. These moments of respite will refresh your minds and bodies, and add unexpected moments of joy to your Scottish adventure.

Engage and Enjoy

With our private day tours, you can create unforgettable memories that will be cherished for years to come. We'll take care of the details, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for your family.

Contact Us Today

Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Scotland? Contact us today to discuss your group’s interests and tailor a private day tour that will create lasting memories. We look forward to welcoming you to Scotland and showcasing the beauty, culture, and history of this country.

Prepared by:

Waseem Abuaglain

Linktours Scotland manager