Scotland's Best Tours

Margot McMurdo Margot McMurdo Tourist Guide

Margot McMurdo, Blue Badge Scottish Tourist Guide.
Email: margot@ctem.co.uk

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Testimonials

Testimonials

All you hoped for and more - including Fish & Chips.

I surprised my wife with a trip to Scotland last Christmas. She had the opportunity to plan the trip to see the Highlands and try to experience Scotland first hand. This was her chance to be Claire Frazier, but I'm no Jamie! Soon after she started planning everything we both quickly discovered that we were out of our league. She knew what she wanted to see, but the timing and the locations and where we needed to stay were all new to both of us. She had heard of Margot and soon they were in touch with one another. She told Margot what she was looking for and before she knew it Margot had a sample itinerary and they began to make the trip of a lifetime come into play. Not very long afterwards I was sent a schedule of everything that had been planned. It included everything my wife wanted and also included so much more! Margot said that since we were passing by why not take in more of the beauty Scotland offers?! When the time came to leave for the trip we were anxious, but ready. We met Margo and her husband Ian even came along to drive. We immediately made friends for life and our trip couldn't have been better! Margo had interesting facts at almost every turn. She introduced us to true Scotland beyond the magazines and the brochures. Margot and Ian introduced us to Scotland! She even arranged for us to have a special hand-fasting ceremony to celebrate and exchange vows after 33 years of marriage in a small garden overshadowed by Falkland Palace. Of course you couldn't hold a hand-fasting ceremony without the proper attire, music and a clan chief! Everything was included - even a surprise parade down main street! The whole town was there to cheer us on and wish us well!

What more could we do to beat this? The countryside and castles... could I say more? We were introduced to some of the most beautiful countryside I have ever seen. There were some places when I got back in the van and just couldn't speak. I couldn't have asked for a better tour guide for me or my wife. Margot made certain that may wife saw everything she wanted to see and even got those extra places in that hadn't been on the list, but Margot knew that she would love them! She even introduced us to a little known beach with sugar-white sand that looks out over the Isle of Skye. Margot even made sure that we got in some of the best little bed and breakfast places across the countryside. One afternoon they were considering a place to have lunch and I remarked that I haven't had fish and chips the entire trip! They quickly found a place in Ft William and off we went. That was the best fish and chips I have ever tasted!

All in all this had to have been the most fun we had ever had on a vacation without our kids! Thanks to Margot and Ian we had no worries. Margot planned it all and all we had to do was load up and ride. We can't wait to make the next trip with her to see more of Scotland!

Robin and Victor Paschal, Alabama, USA. April 2019


My husband wanted to find his 'roots' in Scotland.

Margot was right on the ball researching his family name and guided us along. We visited the Isles of Harris, Skye and Lewis. Words cannot express the beauty that we saw. It was far more than what we expected. Margot was spot on in her recommendations as to where to stay. We have a special place in our hearts for Katie from the Ardhasaig House.

Margot and her husband Ian, are very courteous and prompt. Ian was an exceptional driver and we felt safe on the narrow roads of Scotland. Margot's many years’ experience show, as her knowledge seemed bottomless.

It was a memorable, once in a lifetime experience.

Joyce and Allan Sharp, Vancouver, Canada


My husband and I spent a wonderful full day with Margot and Ian. We started the day in Edinburgh where we were picked up in a wheelchair accessible van suitable for about 5 to 6 passengers. I did need a little assistance up the ramp into the vehicle, but once there, the tie down process was quite quick and easy. I felt very secure traveling in my wheelchair and was able to see out from every window.

Our tour took us to the Trossachs with fabulous views of the countryside. Margot and Ian have a wealth of knowledge; pointing out sites, attractions, and area history as we drove along. We visited several sites including Linlithgow Palace, Doune Castle, the Balquidder area, and a quaint church where Rob Roy is buried. We stopped for lunch at the beautifully scenic Monachyle Mhor country house which had spacious wheelchair accessible facilities. Margot has taken great care to seek out the most accessible sites and facilities. We are looking forward to another, longer tour in the highlands in the near future!

Wendy and Bob Weiler, Wisconsin, USA


Margot's skills as a guide went beyond our expectations. We celebrated our 30th anniversary exploring her magical Scotland. Margot personalized our trip, taking in consideration or disabilities. We felt safe. We had flexibility in the schedule and were shown accessible sites, including bathrooms!! We hold her work and friendship in high regard.

Sincerely,

Ray and Denise Hansen, New Mexico, USA


We booked a family history tour with Margot and got so much more! She found family connections we hadn't found in our genealogy search. She recommended absolutely wonderful accommodations and some great restaurants. Drove us all over in a very comfortable van. Made side trips when we requested them and took us to other sites on the way that we thoroughly enjoyed. Her knowledge of Scottish history was amazing!

On the spur of the moment if she thought of something we would enjoy she would call one of her many friends around the country and arrange it for us. She made our trip very memorable and always went the extra mile. We recommend Margot to everyone for a tour in Scotland!

Amy Clawson and Family, Oregon, USA


Our vacation couldn't have been more perfect! Mobility friendly at it's best.

Margot is an amazing tour guide! With some direction from us, she planned, executed, and arranged lodging accommodations for our "once in a lifetime" trip to Scotland. She was so very knowledgeable about the history of each place we stopped. We were able to see the many landscapes around the mainland and the Isle of Skye. While all was memorable, the highlight was visiting the ancestral home of my clan and related sites.

Each morning she picked us up at our hotel for a day of tremendous experiences. We felt totally at ease in her capable hands. Her services were supreme. As I use a walker, she easily planned mobility friendly.

Deby and Stephen, Duzan from Missouri, USA


We toured Edinburgh, the Highlands, and the Isle of Skye for 10 days with Margot and her husband, Ian, who did the driving. Margot is an extraordinary guide. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of almost everything Scottish, and shared her wisdom and love of Scotland with enthusiasm. She was totally dedicated to our welfare, comfort and enjoyment. She is a specialist in disabled tours, which she has been conducting for 20 years, and she knew all the ins and outs that we needed (my husband uses a wheelchair). She quietly took note of what interested us, and then made sure we got more of it. Once I told her that I wanted to visit a particular art gallery, she made sure that we visited several galleries in tiny towns on our route. When we walked down the Royal Mile, she gave us a copy of her wonderful book, "Edinburgh City Walks", which told fascinating stories of many places along the way.

She knew every turn in the road and every spot that was good for taking photos, which she knew I was interested in. She developed a fabulous itinerary with breathtaking sights and wonderful hotels. She is a lovely, kind and gentle person, with a good sense of humor and a twinkle in her eyes. She taught us some colorful Scottish words ("dreech" for grey, wet weather, "fantooshy" and "fandoobydazzy" for flashy). She recited poetry and songs. She is completely professional and possesses great integrity. Scotland is a magical place, but traveling with Margot made it even more special. She made us feel like we were treasured guests, and we feel that we've made a real friend.

Judy and David Day, Sacramento, California


When my best friend and I decided to journey to Scotland, she recommended we use a private guide. She and her husband visited Scotland a couple of years ago and had the pleasure of working with Margot McMurdo. So when my friend suggested we acquire Margot's services again I was in favour of it.

What a wonderful experience we had due to Margot's expertise/knowledge/driving capabilities. She always had bottled water for us in the vehicle, as well as keeping up with whether we were 'peckish' and might need some refreshments. Our mobility issues were a priority for Margot so neither of us had to worry whether we could manoeuvre around a castles or museums. Often she would make suggestions of things to visit that were not on the itinerary we had planned. These added ideas were often historical or just local places of interest.

Let me also mention that Margot had a wealth of knowledge about the country, its industry and some little known facts. Do you know where the expression "armed to the teeth" originated? I was totally surprised at how it came about.

Margot even suggested some smaller attractions for me when I mentioned I had a friend who collected rocks and fossils. She located a tiny fossil museum on the Isle of Skye. What fun that was! Margot also helped me to attempt to do some family research which didn't lead to anything, but stimulated me to continue searching after I returned home.

As for meals, Margot always had wonderful ideas of where to dine. Whether it was a small cafe with tasty local food or a fie dining restaurant, Margot could pick the right location.

Please give serious consideration to using Margot''s guide service when you visit Scotland. You will not regret it.

Patty Yeast, Kentucky, USA


WOW! What a trip! Margot McMurdo planned an exception Scotland tour that started in Edinburgh, brought through the islands and back to the mainland through Inverness. Her promptness and flexibility to our needs was appreciated, as our initial plans needed to change due to work schedules.

Her recommendations on lodging were excellent! We stayed in a castle where we kept company with others who drove Aston Martin, Porsche, McLaren, and Ferrari. Quite a fantasy. Margot suggested we visit the different islands, which turned out to be my favorite part of the trip. The Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis could not have been more different but amazing in their own unique way. The main road, being one line with Passing Places, took us where beauty has no words. There is no such color green where I'm from. It's is just breathtaking. Harris Gin became a quick favorite along with the stunning colors of Harris Tweed.

Also, her recommendations for eateries were spot on! The local seafood could not be any fresher. Margot also made arrangements for my special dietary needs, which was very much appreciated. The Chefs were very accommodating and every meal was fresh and delicious. Margot was beyond knowledgeable and accommodating, from passing on Scottish History, idioms, and Gaelic words and meaning, to explaining vegetation and plant life and culture and lifestyles, with stopping for photo opportunities, which there were many, and coffee breaks. She introduced us to personal friends and new acquaintances, all of whom were extremely welcoming and delightful!

Margot, Thank you again! I can't wait to return to Scotland!

Claudia Dorman, Ohio, USA.

Our party of four had the great luck to travel from Edinburgh to Inverness and the Highlands with Margot and her partner Ian for 5 days. We wanted to combine genealogy with highlights of Scotland, and we couldn't had found better people to take us on our journey. They are exceptionally nice and personable people! As Ian drove us along the way, Margot was a wonderful source of information about Scotland and its history. We had some specific goals related to our family history that Margot addressed, and we were taken to places that we would have never known about.

Scotland is a beautiful country with a rich history, and Margot is a person who is an expert guide to help one experience and learn about this country. One of the highlights, of which there were many, was in Balquidder when we had a "visit" that Margot booked from "Rob Roy" who spun yarns and sang ballads from the 18th century. It was a wonderful trip, and we would recommend her services to anyone who wants to truly experience the beauty, culture, and history of Scotland.

Tim and Jackie Bennett,Laurie Meza and James Cutler, Colorado, USA.


This was the trip of a lifetime!

Margot McMurdo's expertise of Bonnie Scotland led us into an exciting "off-the beaten-path" adventure of indescribable beauty and history. From the Isles of Skye and Harris, through pristine lochs to the majestic mountains shrouded in mist, the scenery was breathtaking. Through her we made gracious acquaintance of notable local artisans, musicians, craftsmen and farmers who generously shared their trades of the highlands. Margot's incisive knowledge of the courageous and proud Scots who fought with their hearts at Culloden as well as the mysteries of ancient stones and the ancestors who inhabited these sacred sites awed us! Last but not least, the cultural hotspots of Edinburgh and Glasgow and finally… the magnificent golf courses at Gleneagles … there was nothing spared! All along the way, much to our delight, Margot and Ian shared the local folklore in Gaelic and English …. Slainte!!

Indeed, traveling with Margot and Ian was like visiting with "long-time friends who we had never met". We sang, we laughed and at the end of our time together we felt sad to say good-bye but came home with a full heart and wonderful memories.

Five stars to Margot and Ian! Laurie and Alan Paul Friedler, Madison, Connecticut, USA.


"I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the services of Margot McMurdo. Margot is a warm passionate Scot, who I found not only patient and professional but a warm and friendly travel companion / tour guide. Her knowledge and expertise of Scotland was most impressive.

She has great management and communication skills which saw her easily manage to herd our group of 6 with humour and grace whilst keeping us on a tight 10 day tour of Some breath taking parts of Scotland. A part of me would love to keep her services a secret but I know that would be very selfish of me... so here goes I will press the testimonial button." Lola Cashman, London


Merida in action "My family and I were looking for a guide for a customized day trip from Edinburgh. We asked for a recommendation from our B&B host in Edinburgh and he suggested Margot McMurdo. From my first contact with Margot, I liked her. She was very eager to customize the day to exactly what I was looking for. I asked her to combine a visit to St Andrew's for my husband with a "Brave " Castle experience for my daughter niece and nephew as a surprise. Margot communicated with me via many emails to make sure that she was capturing my vision for the day.

When the day came, Margot and her partner Ian, who was our driver, arrived right on time and were both very nice and easy to talk to. Margot did a great job of explaining different sites as we passed by while still holding an amicable conversation with us as well.

Our first stop was Balgonie Castle, where Margot and the Laird and Lady of the Castle had a great experience planned for us. We had a tour of the castle guided by the Laird himself. The castle, which is being meticulously restored, was fascinating. Then, we were all dressed in period costumes with my daughter being dressed as Princess, Merida. Jock, who works with Margot, taught us the basics of archery so we could have our own contest with prizes for the winners, (and losers) of the day. This was followed by tea and cakes in the newly refurbished barrel vaulted ceiling room. What a wonderful experience in a real working castle. Everyone in my family really enjoyed it.

From there we had a lovely drive over to St Andrew's where Margot had a reservation for us at The Jigger Inn on the old course. The location was perfect and the food was great. Margot and Ian were very patient while my husband shopped in the St Andrew's Pro Shop. They then took us for a quick picture on the stone bridge on the Old Course, a tour of the town, which was lovely, and then for a quick run on the beach where the movie, Chariots of Fire, was filled. The perfect end to a perfect day.

We would love to return to Scotland, and if we do, we will definitely contact Margot to set up another of her lovely tours for us. Thank-you Margot!" The Heil Family, Ohio, USA.


" We had a fabulous time with Margot and her partner Ian on our dream Outlander tour in Edinburgh! Margot is very knowledgeable about everything in the area, and she went to an incredible amount of effort to make our tour truly spectacular! We were able to eat at Mrs Baird's Bed and Breakfast, walk the streets of the town where Claire and Frank honeymooned, stand in the church where Claire and Jamie got married, and explore Castle Leoch as well as Blackness Castle which was used for Jamie's prison scenes. We also had an amazing presentation by Jock Ferguson, an actor who gave us a private performance as he played a period Highlander.

We had a wonderful time visiting with Wee Hamish and Honey the Highland cattle, and we had a lovely lunch at a local restaurant. I even tried haggis, and I liked it! We were also able to talk to several people who were involved in the making of Outlander, including some who had met the cast and crew. As an added bonus while we were in the town that filled in for 1940's Inverness they were filming Tommy's Honour and we were lucky enough to meet the Prop Master for that movie who also happened to be the Prop Master for Outlander! All in all the two days we spent with her gave us memories which will last a lifetime. Thank you so much Margot and Ian! We will never forget you, and we hope to be friends for many years to come!" Kristine and Ken Clark, Florida, United States.


"For a week of May this year, my husband Bill and I were transported through a long list of Scotland's 'must see' natural and man-made sites, sounds and tastes, fulfilling a twenty year dream of returning to the surprisingly small country of incredibly green hills, friendly people and an uncanny way of wrapping around an unsuspecting average tourists' heart.

After deciding against driving ourselves, I ended up looking at small group tours and it didn't take long to find one who specialised in up to 6 travellers. We liked the idea of travelling in comfort, choosing what we wanted to see, and having someone else make it happen. I might also add that I have mobility issues and walk more slowly than most and sometimes need to opt out of another stone spiral staircase or slick marble floor. Enter Margot McMurdo, a take charge lady who clearly loves her country and loves to show it off. How long has it been since any of us can make up a wish list and have it all come true? It happened to us the minute Margot met us at the airport and said, 'Where shall we go first?'

We saw castles, Outlander related sites....yes, I wanted to see as much about the series as I could because I enjoy it so much... and Margot didn't hesitate a minute. Better yet, she didn't make fun of me wanting to see the general area where the wonderful series was filmed.

Also historic battlefields, quaint bed and breakfast accommodations, restaurants, shops and even a whole afternoon at Loch Ness so we could try our luck at spotting Nessie, who wasn't home that afternoon , but shares a great attraction by Urquhart Castle that tells its history and legend.Don't miss the Tain Pottery if you like thistle cups and saucers in a gorgeous shade of blue.

What I didn't count on was wishing I could have extended our time right on the spot when she dropped us back at the airport, but someone else had found out about Margot and her talents for leading 'you are there 'trips and I was happy someone else would be having the same experience. I can't wait to go back and look for her shiny red hair in the crowd, with our last name on her sign!

What surprised me the most is that I had no idea I would end up homesick for Scotland when I returned home." Betty and Bill Fulgham, Kentucky, USA


"Margot is a wonderful guide! This was our second tour with her. My husband and I met Margot in 2012 and had such a lovely time with her and Ian, we were eager to set up an extended tour when we returned in 2014 with Jeff's parents. Margot set up a fantastic tour which included many castles,falkirk wheel, Roslyn chapel and a trip to Inverness in the highlands. We were with her for a week and she was able to cover all our wishes. Because of mobility issues with our parents, she was able to suggest other alternatives if needed. I would highly recommend Margot to anyone wanting an informative and Fun tour of Scotland. We have made a wonderful friend in Margot and will treasure our time with her! " Ty, Jeff, Barbara and Al Pierce Eugene Oregon USA


"Every time you set foot on an airplane, you hope this will be the holiday you've always dreamed of. Because you were waiting for us at the other end of our flight, that dream came true for us. Our two weeks with you in Scotland were magical.

Your meticulous attention to detail ensured that we saw everything we wanted to see and many other things that we hadn't even known were there to be seen. From magnificent castles, moving historical sites, and beautiful gardens to charming little extras such as a Beatrix Potter exhibition and Shakespeare's Birnam Wood, you filled our days with the sites and sounds of Scotland.

You chose wonderful B&Bs for us to stay in, each one different and all delightful. Because most were centrally located, we had time to walk around after our touring day ended and explore on our own. Your long acquaintance with the lovely people who run these establishments gave us unique opportunities to visit with locals and learn more about the culture and politics wherever we were. You also also took us to visit with artists, craftsmen, and local historians who showed us their work and talked with us about how they've been influenced by their surroundings. The souvenirs we brought home with us will always be more than just souvenirs because we met so many of the gifted people who made them and were given intimate looks into their creation.

And then there was the food! As a vegetarian, I'm perhaps not the easiest client to travel with, but you called ahead and made sure there would be meat-free dishes available everywhere we went. I didn't have a single meal in Scotland that wasn't drop-dead delicious. And in some instances your choices were absolutely inspired. If dining on vegetarian haggis lasagna less than an hour after witnessing a beautiful double rainbow over Loch Sunart in the Highlands isn't magical, then nothing is.

But the biggest single treasure of we found on our trip was you yourself. You're bright, personable, funny, and knowledgeable about the history and culture of your country. You kept us well supplied with maps, guides, and even newspapers and made sure we got to sample local treats and goodies that we might otherwise have missed. And if we took a random notion to see something that wasn't on the day's itinerary, you re-adjusted on the fly and made sure we saw it.

Your pride in being a Scot and your passion for your country are contagious. We came away with a new appreciation of the wonder that is Scotland. And isn't that, after all, what we travel for?

We came together as guide and clients. We parted as friends. There's no higher compliment we can pay you. Except, of course, to promise you that we'll be back!" Kathie Rankin and Katie Carlson, Virginia, USA


"We were delighted with Ms McMurdo's guidance during our recent visit to Edinburgh and environs. Her superior knowledge of her country, her understanding of our special needs, and her brilliant sense of humor made our trip not only memorable but also one of the travel highlights of our life. She individualized our tours with skill, and she never "read from a tour script" because she knew it. We are eager to return to Scotland and her. She made the difference from seeing something in another country to getting to know the flavor and beauty of a remarkble astounding land. We highly recommend her for any of the Scotland tour packages that she offers; she is a Scottish treasure." Christine Reichert and Nancy Brown, Salem, Massachusetts,USA


"You're the BEST! To let you know what a fantastic time we had with you in Scotland. We all agreed that traveling around the country with you was the best way to see Scotland. You took us to so many neat places that gave us insight into your country's history, its people, the 'lovely food', and the beautiful countryside. All of your wonderful suggestions during the trip's pre-planning were so helpful, too. We're so lucky that we were able to explore Scotland with you. Your knowledge and personality truly made this trip incredible for all of us. " Linda and Rob Hudson, Texas and Pauline and Jerry Chesley, Connecticut, USA


"Max and I would like to thank you for such a fantastic vacation. We loved your itinerary! We had always wanted to see the Scottish Islands and northern Scotland and you made it a superb journey. I loved seeing all the 'off the beat' and non touristy things but you also included the must see historical sites. You were so flexible in adjusting your plans if we even commented that we were interested in something. You listened to our comments during the trip and added so many extra places to see. It was really wonderful having Ian drive all those one lane roads where only the local people go. Scotland has such diverse scenery! We never could have seen such wonderful countrysides on a bus tour. Again, thank you for such a wonderful vacation. It was the trip of a lifetime! " Max and Nikki McLaughlin, Mobile, Alabama, USA


"Thank you so much for all you and Ian did for me and my family! I had an incredible and well informed time. To see so much of your beautiful country with a superb guide (that's you Margot!) and driver (thank you Ian!) was truly the trip of a lifetime. You opened doors for us we wouldn't even have known to try, and I feel like we got so much more out of touring with you than we would have, guide book in hand, on our own. And should I have chosen to drive I likely would have wrecked the car! Most important, you were so kind and helpful with my mobility-limited Dad, so his experience was just as good as mine." Victor McLaughlin, New York, USA


"We recently spent the better part of 4 days with Margot and her husband Ian. Leading up to our vacation, Margot and I had exchanged emails about what our interests were and her response was always "anything is possible". She lived up to that motto and we experienced a delightful 4 days, touring vibrant Edinburgh, beautiful Rosslyn Chapel, and several Castles, each fascinating in its own way. As 'Braveheart' fans, a true highlight for us was viewing (and climbing to the top!) the William Wallace Monument. Margot was knowledgable, entertaining and very kind to us throughout our visit. And thank goodness for Ian who not only can drive on the left hand side of the road, but can drive safely through a torrential downpour while travelling through northern England one evening, can fit suitcases into the back of the vehicle like a master jigsaw puzzle champion, and is an especially nice fellow!
They took us to fascinating sites along Hadrian's wall after we spent a great day at Lindisfarne, the Holy Island. Everywhere we went, Margot was informative, willing and able to answer our questions and just made things absolutely great!
I think I can sum up our whole experience with Margot and Ian by saying that – after our four days together – we do not just consider Margot our tour guide (and Ian our chaffeur) but we know we made two friends! We have already referred four of our best friends to Margot for touring later this year and are confident they will feel the same way as we do!" Tim, Dianne,Matthew and Patrick Finan, North Carolina and California, USA


"In planning our first trip to Scotland it became apparent to us that a local guide would be invaluable in making our vacation a success. We were fortunate to find Margot online through the web and that was the beginning of a wonderful experience. We engaged Margot to personally guide us in Edinburgh which made our day a huge success. In addition Margot was very helpful in suggesting places to visit throughout Scotland. She is a wonderful and knowledgeable person that enhanced our visit. We can truly say that without Margot our Scotland experience would not have been as successful." Steve and Marsha Funk – Palm Beach Gardens, Florida


"Margot gave us the inside tour of everything Scottish! Having visited the country several times before, I didn't realize what I had missed. She was able to give all 12 of us suggestions to suit our interests, and that was very much appreciated. Two of our group are Charles Rennie MacKintosh fans, and Margot gave us many suggestions on seeing his work while we were in Glasgow (I am an architect). She was also enthusiastic about our Scottish family hIstory and helped us delve into that. Margot will be an incredible resource for all of us, as she is now a dear friend as well. I will be using her as a tour guide whenever I return to Scotland. There is so much more to see!" Kelly Thompson-Frater, Madison, Wisconsin, USA


"Our vacation in Scotland was via a cruise ship. Margot was extremely helpful even before we hired her as a tour guide in answering questions about how long it took to get from the port to where we would like to go, if it was even possible to see those sites and various other typical tourist questions. Once we did retain her as our tour guide she went the extra mile in helping us have the most awesome shore excursion on our whole trip around the British Isles. Not only were we able to fit in the places we wanted to see (clan sites), she also arranged for a surprise visit from 'Rob Roy' which capped off the day. It was a wonderful way to leave the shores of Scotland and continue on the cruise.

We would wholeheartedly recommend anyone considering a private tour to get in touch with Margot. It was dumb luck that we found her on the internet and we're so very happy we did. We had a wonderful time and can't wait to get back to Scotland at some point!"
Jeanne & Tom Booth, USA


Falconry experience Falconry experience Falconry experience

Photographs sent by the Lawson family

Falconry experience

"Margot, you made our trip to Scotland. Without you we would have been wandering aimlessly through the countryside. I appreciate all the time and effort you put into helping us arrange for the riding at Lunga, far from the normal tourist attractions, and the falconry which was just fabulous. Having our own comfortable private coach and driver Billy was truly travelling in style. Your love of Scotland, your knowledge and stories, were the icing on the cake. Thank you for making our trip extra special."
Deborah and Howard Lawson, family and friends, Florida, USA


"My husband and I and my parents were in Edinburgh for my father's 70th birthday, and I wanted to plan a special day out to celebrate. I did an internet search and had the great fortune of finding Margot McMurdo a certified Blue Badge Scottish Tourist Guide. Margot and I conversed by e-mail to design the itinerary for a day tour that included Edinburgh sights, the beautiful Scottish countryside, a lovely birthday lunch at a country manor house (complete with a specially prepared birhday cake), and a distillery tour.
Margot was extremely helpful with the planning, asking about our particular interests and recommending potential lunch locations. Our day with Margot (and driver David) was fabulous. No detail was overlooked, and Margot's knowledge and obvious love of Scotland was infectious."
Kelle Jacobs, Albany, CA, USA


"We want to express our appreciation for the friendly, professional service you provided when we were in Scotland.
Your willingness to drive to Stirling (for more touring) two days after you had shown us around Edinburgh was typical of the personal service you provide.
Thanks for showing us the real Scotland (small towns and neighborhood pubs) along with the history of the different regions. Loved the Scotch, you can keep the Haggis.
See you in two years. You're the best." Ed Hume, USA


"Greg and I want to thankyou for the most amazing vacation we have ever had. Your knowledge of Scottish history, the castles and the countryside is astounding. We asked you to take us to a few speciality shops and you found the best. We asked for places tostay with good food - and were taken to the finest. I tried to find out where my father had grown up, and through you and Ian I was able to walk through the old homestead and his footsteps.
Our trip was magical, personal, emotional and full of a deep sense of camaraderie with you. We left with a tremendous sense of having experienced Scotland and her wonders. Each island we went to, each place we visited has become part of our wonderful memories.
Margot, you are the best and we consider you a fabulous guide and alsoa very good friend. Thank you for all you have done to enrich our lives
We will not hesitate to recommend you to our friends." Greg and Ginny Palmer, Los Osos, USA.


"My wife and I as well as our grandson and his parents travelled about Scotland for about 2 weeks.The trip itself was well organised by Margot and was one of the nicest and most memorable that we have made. Margot has a firm grasp of the history of Scotland and a warm and personable way of conveying the information. The trip can be summarised as a magical moment, it was truly that nice being together as a family and with Margot as our guide. If I appear to be too effusive, I can only say that it was deserved." Monroe Richman, Hawaii, USA


"We have been to other countries - Scotland is a favourite! Thanks for great memories!" Fletcher Thorne-Thomsen, LA, USA.


"What a charming, lovely, funny woman you are - we are so glad we found you! Thank you for a wonderful day - and days to come!" Kim and Betty McBride, USA.


"What a wonderful time I had with you! Your love and affection for Scotland shine through loud and clear." Nancy Niland, Austin, Texas, USA.


"Just to let you now how much the Davies family enjoyed the tour of Edinburgh's attractions. It was a great relief for me not to have to figure out how to drive somewhere and once we had arrived - where to park! The children felt right at home and can only imagne what they are telling all their friends about our 'private tour guide'. Thanks again for helping make our day special." The Davies Family, Large & Small!


"Thank you for making Scotland so enjoyable for us. You helped us see the beauty that was around us. We enjoyed the history that is so rich in this country. Again thank you for making our trip so memorable." The Waddells, USA.


Members of the Pre-destination Church

Above: Pre-destination Church Group on the Isle of Barra

"You are a lovely girl and a true Scot. Enjoyed the trip because of you!" Christine Carlberg, USA.


"We enjoyed our visit to Scotland very much - you made it more special with your wisdom, lore and delightful songs! Thank you so much." Arthur and Kathryn Mattison, USA.

"Many thanks for being such a wonderful guide and hostess." Larry and Del Gloyd, USA.


Margot McMurdo Blue Badge Scottish Tourist Guide. Email: margot@ctem.co.uk

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