McKinlay Kidd Brochure 2013

diff

eren

tlyScotland

&Ireland

Real holiday stories

Scotland and IReland on fIlm

Photography and story competitions

To find out more about our holidays visit:

www.SeeScotlandDifferently.co.uk

www.SeeIrelandDifferently.co.uk

Call 0844 873 6110 (+44 844 873 6110 from overseas)

From USA/Canada call toll free 1-866 922 8538

Isle of Ulva, by Jeff Ashbrook

Pipe Bank Championships, by Mark Harris

Woodstock Gardens, Co Kilkenny, by Anna Brennan

View from Sleat peninsula, Isle of Skye, by Chai Beh

Best smalltour operator

Winner

We were delighted at the response when we asked to see your photographs of Scotland and Ireland – and found it hard to pick a winner!

If you have pictures from your holiday that show either Ireland or Scotland with a difference, we’d love to see them. And if we choose your picture, you’ll win a £200 McKinlay Kidd voucher.

To enter, simply post your photograph on our Facebook fan page or email it to [email protected] (see website for terms and conditions). Competition closes 31st October 2013.

Good luck! Do you have a way with words? You can also win a £200 McKinlay Kidd voucher by telling us your travel story. See page 19 for our latest winner and for details of how to enter.

WINNER: Jackie Boyce.Jackie says: “The place is Lochan, in between Ballachulish and Glencoe. A chap had built a large house there for him and his Canadian wife and imported the trees from Canada to make her feel at home – but she never stayed and seemingly he was heartbroken. The house lay empty for some time and was eventually turned into a nursing home. It’s now empty again, but it’s a lovely walk up to the house. And where the trees are, you can look over the water. A lot of the locals sit and have a quiet time fishing and chatting and go for walks round the grounds of the house. A wee sad story really for such a lovely place.”

A different view

It’s always exciting to discover what our customers have

thought about the holidays that we’ve arranged for them

in Scotland and Ireland – and to be able to share their

experiences with you.

Once again, this has been an exciting year, with another win

in the Guardian/Observer Travel Awards. For the second year

running, we received the Best Small Tour Operator award.

We’re particularly delighted by this, as it’s voted for by

people who have actually been on a McKinlay Kidd holiday –

which makes it even more special to us. It’s a reminder that

it’s what we do for our customers that counts.

We design our holidays to get you closer to the real Scotland

and Ireland – as you’ll see from the stories in this issue.

From touring Scotland with a personal driver-guide, to

seeing wildlife up-close and personal, you’ll find it here

in See Scotland & Ireland Differently.

Many of the photographs featured were taken by our customers,

and I love the way they capture our holidays. On the back

page you can also see the winning entry in our photography

competition, and find out how you could enter. And don’t

miss our Travellers’ Tales winning entry on page 19. Both of

these competitions offer you a prize of £200!

If you’d like to get in touch about anything at all, we’d

be delighted to hear from you. Please email me at

[email protected]. Happy reading!

Robert Kidd

Registered in Scotland: 250017. Registered office: 7-11 Melville Street, Edinburgh EH3 7PE

Visit: www.mckinlaykidd.co.uk Call: 0844 873 6110

Photography: McKinlay Kidd customers, Jackie Boyce, Chai Beh, Anna Brennan, Mark Harris, Jeff Ashbrook, Channel 4, VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint, Visit Orkney, Northlink Ferries, Tourism Ireland, Sealife Surveys/ Splashdowndirect, Northern Ireland Tourist Board, All Shore Productions, Paul Davies, Niall Kidd, Dr Sam Jones, Ardanaiseig Hotel, McKinlay Kidd

From the editorWhat makes a holiday memorable? For some it’s spectacular scenery. For others it’s history or wildlife. Or it could be meeting and getting to know the locals. One of the best things about being in the editor’s chair of See Scotland & Ireland Differently is hearing the things that really stood out for people.

“at mcKinlay Kidd, we want to make sure you have a holiday experience to remember. So if you want to really get to know

Scotland or Ireland, why not visit our website or give us a call?”

Robert Kidd

McKinlay Kidd: Unique Scottish and Irish holidays, created by the award-winning specialists

McKinlay Kidd is a company that’s dedicated to helping independently-minded visitors get the best out Scotland and Ireland.

Celebrating its 10th year in 2013, the company offers a range of holidays including self-drive touring, holidays using public transport and both privately guided and small group tours. However, their fully flexible approach means you can add your own personal touches to any holiday – or have McKinlay Kidd create a custom-designed holiday experience that’s completely unique.

The company’s directors, Robert Kidd and Heather McKinlay, both love exploring Scotland and Ireland. They, and other members of the team, are always discovering new holiday experiences and places to stay, and they insist that any recommendation is personally tried and tested.

It’s this personal approach that means every holiday is uniquely memorable. It’s an approach that has won both awards and the hearts of customers.

Customer Protection

McKinlay Kidd is a fully-bonded tour operator, complying with the strict Package Travel Regulations. This means customers’ advance payments are fully guaranteed in the unlikely event of the company’s financial failure. Furthermore all air holidays including flights McKinlay Kidd arrange are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 9481. ATOL protection extends primarily to customers who book and pay in the United Kingdom. In addition, McKinlay Kidd offers its own guarantee to refund its service charge if customers are not completely satisfied.

McKinlay Kidd is also a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. McKinlay Kidd abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.com. Visit the website to find out more about the Association or call 020 8744 9280.

For the second year running, we were delighted to be awarded Best Small Tour Operator in the prestigious Guardian/Observer Travel Awards. We would like to thank all our customers who voted for us.

As the judges said: “ McKinlay Kidd scored a perfect 100% ... enticing holidays that take in the best of Scotland from its wildlife to its whisky. They continue to grow, adding new experiences that make us want to drop what we’re doing and hotfoot it up to Scotland.”

And, of course, Ireland too!



Email [email protected]



Directors: Robert Kidd & Heather McKinlay

McKinlay Kidd Ltd Suite 240 Baltic Chambers 50 Wellington St Glasgow G2 6HJ

Best smalltour operator

Winner

Best Small Tour Operator

Winner

Front cover: Bow Fiddle Rock, Portknockie, Morayshire, Scotland.

www.facebook.com/mckinlaykidd

@mckinlaykidd

IN THIS ISSUE

Orkney and Shetland 4 – 5

Trains and boats and planes 6

Scotland on film 7

Mull wildlife 8

Private guided journey 9 – 10

West Highland Line to Skye 11 – 12

Island hopping 12 – 13

New for 2013 14 – 15

Touring Ireland 16 – 17

Ireland on film 18

Travel writing competition 19

Tailormade touring 21

Ten years of McKinlay Kidd 22 – 23

Photography competition 24

3

When Fay and John Stenhouse booked a 3-week holiday touring Scotland’s islands, they headed due north – starting in Shetland, followed by Orkney. Coming from the other side of the world in Australia, it was a journey they sum up in one word: magical.

“Gosh! How many years had we been thinking of going to Scotland

to see the islands?” laughs Fay. “We simply had to see it

for ourselves.”The other side of the worldFrom the Southern hemisphere to Orkney and Shetland

The real islands For Fay & John, the northerly islands offered a combination of archaeology, history, wildlife and places to wander. “As Australians of Scottish origin,” says Fay, “Scotland was a must-see destination. The islands of Orkney and Shetland have always fascinated us.”

But there was one attraction that was top of her list. “It was quite a simple thing,” smiles Fay. “I wanted to see puffins – and I saw them in abundance!”

For the Stenhouses, what finally made them visit was the news that a friend would be visiting Lerwick on her round the world cruise. “I envied her,” says Fay,

“but realised she’d spend only 6 hours in Shetland! I decided to see the islands for real, and we went off to the internet and found McKinlay Kidd.”

Freedom and friendliness The thing that most impressed John and Fay was “the openness and friendliness of the people of the islands. Everyone seemed to have time for you.”

In fact, Fay recalls many memorable chats, including talking to the postmistress at Balta Sound, about knitting in the dark and the hard work of sheep shearing.

While on Shetland, they wanted to visit Jarlshof, probably the island’s best-known archaeological site.

“I wasn’t prepared for the variety of excavations on the site,” recalls Fay, “and the freedom you have to explore it.”

Treasured rings Fay’s favourite memory is a very special one indeed. “My husband surprised me by taking me to Shetland Jewellery and suggesting we buy new wedding rings.”

The couple bought two rings in matching St Ninian’s treasure patterns, adapted from a brooch found hidden in a ruined chapel on St Ninian’s Isle. “Later, we visited the chapel,” she recalls. “It was very touching and unexpectedly romantic!”

John and Fay found the place they stayed in Shetland was beautiful, as well as steeped in history and significance. Fay points out that for geologists, it’s part of the Great Glen fault and links the Shetlands to Scotland. “For the tourists,” she adds, “this means the scenery is rugged and varied!”

Looking back on their hotel, they say: “it was more than charming – it was enchanting. The service was always cheerful and the meals were great, particularly the breakfasts.”

Island wildlife On Orkney, they found their hotel very luxurious – with a four-poster bed and

view over to the sea. “The food’s fresh and delicious, and the menus are innovative. The whisky room is the best I’ve seen.”

“We loved the boat trip to the Noup of Noss,” adds Fay. On their trip to this spectacular headland, “the commentary was excellent. There was fabulous scenery, millions of birds – terns, gannets, fulmars, skuas and puffins – as well as seals and dolphins. I liked being shown the underwater life in the cave.”

John and Fay’s tour of Scotland continued to Harris, North Uist, Barra, Mull and Iona as well as many other places.

For them, booking through McKinlay Kidd gave them confidence. As Fay says, they appreciated the company’s willingness to hear what we wanted and just make it happen. They seemed to know their destinations like locals.”

Robert recommends

We offer a range of holiday options

in both Orkney & Shetland, by ferry

and as fly-drive.

Our other island-hopping holidays

include An Island Odyssey, touring

from Arran to Skye, via Islay & Mull;

Scottish Island Escape, combining

Islay with the smaller islands of Gigha

& Colonsay, and numerous options in

the Outer Hebrides (see page 12.)

Want to design your own combination?

You can trust us to sort out tricky

ferry timetables.


“I wanted to see puffins –

and I saw them in

abundance!”

54

Trains and boats and planesIt’s not just about the destination. How you travel can make a holiday truly memorable.

on location Scotland

As you’ll see, Scotland has provided the setting for an incredible variety of films. This rich heritage has inspired our new Local Hero and James Bond style breaks (see page 14) and of course, we can always create a tailomade holiday around any of these locations.

On a McKinlay Kidd holiday you choose the way you want to see Scotland or Ireland. Want to be in the driving seat? We offer touring holidays in your own car, a hire car or even a classic car. With spectacularly beautiful scenery and great driving roads, it’s easy to see the appeal.

Take it easyAlternatively, we’ve put together holidays based on public transport, for those who’d prefer to leave the car behind instead.

As you’ll see on page 11 for instance, taking the West Highland Line to Skye must rank as one of the world’s great journeys. And our Explore Ireland by train holiday takes you from North to South, East to West and by ferry to the “lost in time” Aran Islands. If public transport doesn’t appeal, you can also put yourself in the expert hands of your own driver-guide.

Right on timeBut ensuring you have a smooth journey is where the expertise of McKinlay Kidd comes in. We carefully plan itineraries to make sure train and ferry timetables connect seamlessly – filling the gaps with pre-booked taxi transfers.

Over the years, we’ve developed an in-depth knowledge of timetables, so you don’t have to. And there are some surprises. On flights to the Hebridean island of Barra, the timetable varies with the tides. Perhaps not surprising, as you land on the sand!

Ferry fascinationAs luck would have it, Robert Kidd is fascinated by ferries. For him, there’s a romantic appeal of arriving somewhere by boat – and ferries have been important in Scotland and Ireland for centuries.

As a result, there are many place-names with “ferry” in various forms, even where routes have now been replaced by bridges. In one case, this has led to a road sign that always raises eyebrows, reading “Stromeferry (no ferry)”.

Another oddity is that ferries across Lough Foyle, going from Northern Ireland to Southern Ireland, do something rather surprising: they actually travel from south to north!

For Robert, a personal highlight of the year was a Sunday afternoon cruise to Sanda Island on the SS Waverley. This is the world’s last sea-going paddle steamer, which still does day excursions around the Clyde – complex (and quirky) schedule permitting.


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7

9

10

4

4

3

2

Local Hero

2013 marks the film’s

30th anniversary.

Village scenes were

filmed at Pennan in

the east, and beach

scenes near Arisaig

in the west.

Whisky Galore

The true story of

a ship laden with

whisky running

aground off

Eriskay inspired

Compton McKenzie’s

tale, filmed on

neighbouring Barra.

The Wickerman

Although much of

the filming took

place in the south of

Scotland, the harbour

and seafront scenes

were set in Plockton

in the north west.

I know where

I’m going

This Powell and

Pressburger classic

mainly features

the Isle of Mull.

However, while

filming Corryvreckan

whirlpool, the film

crew took their lives

in their hands!

Angel’s Share

Released last year, this gritty

but endearing tale of whisky

discovery features Glasgow

and Balblair distillery.

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2

3

4

5

Skyfall

The latest Bond film

builds to its dramatic

finale amidst the

eerie scenery of

Glencoe – though

the mansion itself

was a studio set!

Chariots of Fire

The memorable

beach scene in

this Oscar-winning

story of 1924

Olympians was

filmed at St Andrews.

Harry Potter

You can experience a real-life trip

on the Hogwarts Express by

taking the Jacobite steam train

across the Glenfinnan viaduct.

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7

8

39 Steps

Hitchcock’s 1935

epic includes

dramatic scenes

filmed around the

Forth Bridge and

Edinburgh.

Brave

Disney Pixar’s animated

movie features a Scottish

backdrop, inspired especially

by the standing stones and

castles throughout Argyll.

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76

Joan and John Oglesby, and their friends Wendy and Mike, enjoyed a McKinlay Kidd Mull Wildlife Experience holiday. “This holiday was to celebrate my birthday,” explains Joan. “It was up to me to choose, and the McKinlay Kidd holiday sounded like just what I was looking for.”

As Joan explains, “I’m interested in wildlife and hoped to see eagles, puffins and perhaps an otter or whale – we saw them all and loads more!”

The friends took a McKinlay Kidd arranged trip with knowledgeable local guide, Arthur. “It really set us up for the rest of the holiday – I can’t count the number of conversations that started with the words ‘According to Arthur…’! We learnt how to tell the difference between a golden and white tailed eagle and a seal from an otter, and got a real overview of Mull.”

They felt the wildlife trips really increased their understanding of the area: “We learnt where to look and what to look for,” says Joan. “It also meant we could identify what we saw!”

FriendlyThe friends stayed at the Bellachroy Hotel in Dervaig. “Every aspect worked perfectly,” remembers Joan. “We really liked the inn, the staff were all helpful and friendly and seemed a happy team. Nothing was too much trouble.”

Joan continues, “we used to take holidays in the West Highlands, and we were amazed how much we enjoyed our return to Scotland. It was so unspoilt and stunningly beautiful, everyone we met was friendly and welcoming – and the food had improved beyond recognition!”

Local knowledgeScenes from a private guided journey round Scotland.

Tranquillity“Every day was different and had something special in it. Eating our picnic on the Cairns of Coll, watching the seals a few metres offshore – watching us – was amazing. It was like a tropical island without the sun, heat and palm trees.

It’s hard to express how tranquil it was, and how privileged I felt just to be there.”

Remembering her birthday itself, Joan says “the cake that Mckinlay Kidd organised for my birthday was such a surprise, I was really touched. It left me feeling if this is being 60 it’s really not so bad!”

On their tailormade guided private journey, Catherine Boudreau and her party from New York discovered that having their own personal driver-guide made for a holiday to remember.

Catherine and her partner Michael Herts, along with their friends Barbara and Arthur, toured Scotland, including the capital, the west coast and Mull. As well as wanting to see the country Catherine says, her husband “wanted to see the fishing industry in Scotland. He does some commercial fishing in Long Island, New York State.”

Continued…

“watching the seals a few

metres offshore – watching us – was amazing”

Call of the wild

Joan Oglesby on getting to know Mull with an expert guide

Robert recommendsWildlife holidays on Mull have always been our most popular holidays, and we offer a range of options from three to six nights. The island offers a unique diversity of species, in easy reach by land and sea.

We also offer wildlife experiences in: the Outer Hebrides – great for otters; Perthshire – for photo deer-stalking; Shetland – for otters and seabirds – and the Cairngorm National Park, where you can see some very rare species, like capercaillie and crested tits, as well as evening badger watching, and the thrilling ospreys. You might even see pine martens! In Ireland we offer whale and dolphin watching trips in West Cork.



Robert recommends

Our personal service lets you customise

your own tour, based on your specific

interests, whether that’s history, whisky,

golf, food, walking or wildlife.

We work with a small number of

driver-guides. Carefully chosen for

their knowledge and passion for

Ireland or Scotland, they’re dedicated

to making sure you have the best

possible holiday experience.

We can arrange guides for your

whole holiday or just 1 or 2 days.

You can also join one of our new

Escorted Journeys for small groups.

See page 14 or our website for details.

Their holiday began with a few days in Edinburgh, enjoying the many attractions of the capital while staying in a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of the city. As Catherine says, “the hotel in Edinburgh had the best service – we were so well taken care of, whatever our needs were.”

Spirit of ScotlandIt was from here that they were picked up by their driver Ricki, who also acted as a guide throughout the holiday.

“Once I got to Scotland, I put my brain on holiday mode and let myself be taken care of,” remembers Catherine. “We had Mr. Kidd provide a driver and car for our holiday. What a great way to travel.”

Having never been to the country before, Catherine and her party wanted to get a flavour of Scotland. Catherine feels the country “has without a doubt the nicest, kindest, most friendly people I have ever met. It’s above and beyond anything I have ever encountered while travelling.”

Touring to the west coast, they stayed at the Pierhouse in Port Appin. “The hotel on the water had a breathtaking view, fabulous food and,” recalls Catherine, “a great waiter named Rommy!”

Here they had a morning’s pony trek. “Standing on a hill in the highlands,” says Catherine, “with brilliant sunshine on our pony trek, was unforgettable. It made me very impressed – and respectful of the Scottish spirit.”

Seeing sealifeFrom here they crossed to the green and beautiful Isle of Mull, where they took a boat trip to see the bountiful sea life around the island. The trip, which was part of their holiday, was of particular interest to Catherine’s husband, a professional fisherman.

After a night’s stay on Mull, Ricki drove them back to the mainland, from where they toured north into Torridon.

They had a boat trip on Loch Ness, then before going back to Edinburgh, stayed in Kingussie.

It was, says Catherine, “like being a favourite guest in someone’s lovely home. Cosy, comfortable, excellent meals and wonderful staff.” Of the hotels they visited, she remembers this one particularly fondly, but as she says, “they were all places we would for sure not have found on our own.”

Thoroughly recommendedWhen she was first thinking of coming to Scotland, Catherine had read guide books and some history about the country – and then exchanged emails with Robert Kidd, as he developed the trip.

As she recalls, “I really let him pick the specifics, after discussing the general

things we wanted to do and see. He was patient, well versed in planning trips, and made very good suggestions during the planning stage.”

One of the things that make booking with McKinlay Kidd

different is ‘Robert’s Recommendations’, all suggestions that are personally tried by someone from McKinlay Kidd.

As Catherine says, “I took all of his suggestions as to the specifics of our trip. He got to know us, I think – and designed a tour for us that we loved. The hotels he chose were wonderful, each in its own way.”

It was, Catherine remembers, “a stress free, lovely holiday.”

“McKinlay Kidd leaves nothing to chance. It was so thoroughly delightful. The accommodation was first rate, the food excellent – and the service was beyond friendly.”

To Ian and Sabine, this journey meant getting a unique view of the scenery and staggering beauty of this area of Scotland.

As Sabine recalls, “we had driven around Rannoch Moor, but wanted to see more of this wild and beautiful place – and could only do this by train.” In fact, the line crossing the moor is a testament to the vision of Victorian engineers, built on marshy terrain that’s often impassable in any other way.

“We also wanted to visit Skye and the surrounding area,” she adds. “And we knew we could safely follow McKinlay Kidd’s advice.

In good handsHaving holidayed in Scotland with McKinlay Kidd previously, Ian and Sabine knew what to expect when they booked their holiday through the company. While both have issues with mobility,

they felt they could be sure they’d be in good hands.

They initially decided on their holiday by looking in McKinlay Kidd’s brochure, and followed this with “a couple of phone calls to clarify our lack of mobility and our plans. The company came up with what turned out to be our ideal holiday.”

Sabine continues, “having always organised our own holidays, we were initially wary of letting a travel company do things for us. McKinlay Kidd have changed that, and they will be taking charge of our future holidays.”

continued…

Over the rails to Skye“above and beyond anything

I have ever encountered while

travelling”

Is there any finer journey than by steam train on the world-famous West Highland Line? For Ian and Sabine Burdeyron-Dyster, this was the only way to travel to the Isle of Skye.

A classic ra i lway journey to the misty is le

Robert recommends

Our selection of holidays using train and

public transport is continually growing.

In Scotland, as well as the West Highland

Line to Skye holiday featured here, you

can also enjoy a two night break on the

West Highland Line.

We offer island hopping holidays on

the west coast and a selection of week

long holidays touring Scotland using

the train network. In Ireland we now

offer several short breaks and week

long holidays designed specifically for

those who’d prefer a car-free holiday.

11

Rugged sceneryAs Sabine says, “we hadn’t been to Skye but had been on the Jacobite Steam Train – this was a welcome repeat.”

One of the holiday extras McKinlay Kidd organised for the couple’s stay on Skye was a hire car. The car, which was waiting for them as they disembarked, was ideal for handling the island’s inclines.

Thinking back to some of the strikingly rugged but beautiful landscape of the island, Sabine recalls, “we were astounded at the drive to and from the crossing of the Glenelg ferry – eat your heart out, Mars!”

The road to Kylerhea, where the ferry lands on Skye, certainly does pass through a stark, imposing landscape. The Glenelg ferry itself is the last traditional hand-operated turntable ferry in Scotland, with a short but uniquely memorable crossing through a powerful tide-race.

Helpful peopleThe pair look back on the holiday fondly. What stands out, in addition to the wonderful scenery and the romantic train journeys is how everyone was so helpful.

This included everyone from the people at their hotel “who met us on Spean Bridge station and greeted us as old friends” to “the lady taxi driver in Mallaig, who reprimanded us for walking up from the ferry, when she could have driven down to collect us.”

Did they bring back souvenirs? “Full tummies and wonderful memories,” smiles Sabine. “Oh, and the determination to return!”

“It was like staying with friends – warm, welcoming and nothing was too much trouble.”


Island adventures with everything from whale-watching to photography“My grandfather came from the Isle of Lewis,” says Dan McIver. “And it’s always been my dream to go to Scotland and see where he grew up.”

In fact, on their holiday, he and his wife actually got to spend time with relatives in Inverness that they never knew they had!

Hebridean heartlands

On their tailormade holiday, Dan Maciver

and his wife Marianne, from Canada,

spent three weeks taking in Mull, Barra,

North Uist, Harris and Lewis – as well

as Skye and Glasgow.

Their holiday included a whale-watching

boat trip and a photography course

on Mull. This was something that Dan,

a photographer who has enjoyed

landscape photography for over

30 years, got a lot out of – “it was a

great way to find those out-of-the-way

locations that most travellers would

never see.”

Beautiful beaches“We had never been to Scotland

before,” says Dan. “We’d always

been told that the people were

friendly but we had no idea how

friendly and accommodating they

were. The landscape was amazing.

We saw beaches that were as

beautiful as those of the Caribbean –

if not more so.”

As the pair recall of their time in the

islands, “we had no idea we would

experience such wonderful food in

such a remote area. No matter what

we ate, it was always fresh, always

beautifully prepared and served.”

Family connections The holiday also gave Dan the

opportunity to explore his Scottish

heritage. As he says, “I was aware

that my grandfather was born on

the Isle of Lewis and lived in a

small town called Upper Carloway –

but that was really all I knew.”

During their time on Lewis, Dan

was able to locate his family history

dating back to the 1700s. Through

a member of the village historical

society, he not only found the

locations where his grandfather

and great-grandmother were born –

they were able to meet up with a

second cousin living in Inverness.

As Dan says, “we saw a lot of beautiful

landscape, ate wonderful food and met

a lot of wonderful people – but finding

family we never knew existed was the

highlight for me.”

12

Robert recommendsWe offer many island-hopping options covering Barra, the Uists, Harris, Lewis & Skye. These include a week long Outer Hebrides Hopscotch, and a 10 day Journey through the Western Isles, as well as holidays including day trips to the poignant St Kilda archipelago or landing on the Sand on Barra.

If you have any particular family connections in Scotland or Ireland you would like to investigate, do let us know and we will take this into account when planning your holiday.

13

Holiday ideas with a differenceA preview of what’s new this year

Local Hero Coast to CoastThe perfect way to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the film classic Local Hero. One of Robert’s favourites, he’s watched it more times than he can remember!

The self-drive route of this holiday is carefully planned to cover all the main filming locations – and that includes more places than you might realise. This holiday takes you from “Furness” (or Pennan in real life), in the East, to the expansive white sandy beaches near Arisaig in the West.

Stand where Fulton Mackay, as beach owner Ben, took on the might of a US oil company. Make a call from the iconic red telephone box. Our step-by-step guide also pinpoints less obvious locations, including the pub in Banff, which was used for the interior bar scenes, and still displays photos of the stars on location.

Scottish Seafood TrailOver the past decade, this has proved to be one of our most popular holidays, and now there’s even more to enjoy for those who love seafood and shellfish.

In addition to a delicious seafood cookery demonstration, and a boat trip with a creel fisherman to catch langoustines, this holiday now includes a visit to an oyster farm.

Situated on the edge of a sea loch, the farm gives you an opportunity to find out more about the fascinating way these delicacies are cultivated. Here, you’ll learn how to “shuck” oysters, and even sample a few straight from the sea – you’ll never taste anything fresher or more delicious!

Aston Martin 007 WeekendThe appeal of Bond is timeless. This holiday captures the style and glamour of the films, and lets you enjoy the thrills of driving a stylish Aston Martin around some key locations associated with them.

You’ll pass Faslane Naval Base, featured in The Spy who Loved Me, and the loch by Crinan, scene of a boat chase through the Bosphorus in From Russia with Love. And what could be more Bond than staying on a private island? Here you’ll learn how to make the ultimate Martini! Take a speedboat trip to Duart Castle, family seat of the real-life inspiration for 007. And who could resist powering through Glencoe, setting for the dramatic finale of Skyfall?

At McKinlay Kidd, we’re always seeking out holiday ideas that create uniquely memorable experiences. And to mark our 10th anniversary, we’ve come up with some exciting new ways to see Scotland and Ireland differently. There are a small selection featured on this page, and many more on our website. For the latest information sign up for our e-newsletter or give us a call.

Of course, as with any McKinlay Kidd holiday, in addition to the ideas featured here, we can tailormake you a holiday around any of these suggestions. Just tell us what you’d like to do, and we’ll design a unique experience for you.

Irish Culinary ExperienceWe’ve joined forces with Good Food Ireland to design a new and unique self-drive tour of the far west of Ireland. All the accommodation is chosen for its excellent “foodie” reputation and variety – highlighting the quality of the very finest Irish produce.

The carefully-planned route starts on the wild coast of Connemara, and a visit to the Smokehouse. Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy delicious fresh fish and seafood, and sample the best of Ireland – from ice cream parlours to bakeries, as well as great Irish pubs, of course!

Uniquely tempting accommodation We’re very excited about some superb new accommodation – including a luxuriously-refitted boatshed on the edge of a loch, one of the most romantic places we’ve come across. There’s also a unique castle hotel in Connemara in its own wooded grounds, and an atmospheric baronial pile on the Isle of Skye. Or perhaps you’d like to stay in a lovingly-restored Georgian house on the outskirts of a Scottish fishing village? We are constantly seeking out the best off-the-beaten track options to include in our holidays.

This is a great year to enjoy Scotland’s natural beauty. McKinlay Kidd’s wildlife holidays range from whale-watching to eagle-spotting, from photo deer-stalking to otter-tracking.

Ireland is having a party in 2013! Let McKinlay Kidd help you enjoy the best cultural and musical events of this year-long celebration of all things Irish.


Travelling togetherThis year, we’re launching Escorted Journeys – a new way to see Scotland differently.

We’re already experienced at planning tours for groups – whether for families, friends or colleagues. Combining an expert guide, off-the-beaten-track accommodation and unique experiences, they’ve proved very popular, which is why we’re now offering escorted journeys as a holiday option.

Designed for just 6 to 16 passengers at a time, these tours start either in Glasgow or Edinburgh. You can book on a tour individually, as a couple or as your own mini group. See website for full details of itineraries, prices and departure dates.

Our Whisky Explorer Journey is a week-long grand tour of Scotland. Includes Edinburgh, Speyside, Oban and Islay, with tours and tastings at six distilleries, plus dinner at the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, where you will have the chance to view the world’s most expensive private whisky collection.

West Coast Whisky Journey includes a visit to Campbeltown’s Springbank distillery and a tour of Islay’s varied distilleries, from the famous to a local farm. Return via Oban and Glengoyne, where you can blend your very own whisky. Over six days, you’ll also visit the renowned Mull of Kintyre and atmospheric Kilmartin Glen.

McKinlay Kidd’s Wildlife Journey offers the opportunity to see golden eagles, white-tailed sea eagles, otters and more on the Isle of Mull. Also includes boat trips to spot whales, basking sharks and dolphins, and see a large colony of puffins.

There are also escorted journey options for the Local Hero and Scottish Seafood holidays featured on this page.

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As Heather says, “we wanted to enjoy the scenery, take life at a slow pace and to experience the legendary Irish hospitality. We had no specific ideas about where to go, where to eat and what to see, so we left it entirely to Robert Kidd.”

Heather and Brian were delighted by the suggestion of a tailormade self-drive tour of Ireland. McKinlay Kidd’s proposed itinerary covered Wexford, Kinsale, Kerry, Clare and Athlone.

The Medhursts travelled by ferry from South Wales. And Brian recalls that they particularly enjoyed the Stena Plus lounge that McKinlay Kidd had arranged for them. With thoughtful touches like a choice of complimentary refreshments and daily newspapers and magazines, the trip set the tone for their visit.

“Our pleasure began when we boarded the ferry,” says Brian, “and continued throughout the holiday.”

Welcoming waysWas Ireland as friendly as they’d hoped? “The warmth of the welcome we received at each of the hotels Robert had chosen matched the best we’d experienced anywhere else in the world – from grand country house to harbour-side B&B”, says Heather. “We would never have found such delightful places if left to our own devices.”

In fact, Heather adds, “the welcomes were bettered only by the quality of the food that was prepared for us!”

Best of IrelandThis was a holiday that took in so many of Ireland’s beautiful spots – from the well-known to more out-of-the way locations. Which had made the biggest impression?

“The Cliffs of Moher were a real highlight,” says Brian. “Walking along the cliff-top paths in glorious sunshine was fantastic.”

These spectacular cliffs stretch along the coast for 5 miles – and, towering over the sea at a height of over 200 metres, as you might imagine, the views can be breathtaking.

“We were delighted with the quality of accommodation we enjoyed at all the stops,” adds Heather. “But the place in Athlone was exceptional.”

With a wonderful setting on the quiet, shores of picturesque Lough Ree, the cedar clad, log-cabin-style exterior of the hotel where they stayed is striking. Inside, there’s an interior that’s tasteful and modern – and there’s a warm, relaxed atmosphere throughout, with stunning lakeside grounds.

Helpful suggestions Heather and Brian found the suggestions from McKinlay Kidd exceptionally useful. “We followed Robert’s suggestions almost to the letter at every venue and benefitted from the advice,” says Heather. “There was a variety of coastal and inland places – giving us a good taste of Irish hospitality and scenery.”

In the end, they say, “having the itinerary prepared for us saved us an immense amount of time – and allowed us to enjoy holidaying, rather than planning each day.”

“The holiday exceeded our expectations in so many ways. McKinlay Kidd’s guide

for the places to see and where to eat certainly enhanced our enjoyment. They must have had a great time researching these establishments and areas!”

In fact, when it came to following their holiday recommendations, Brian says “we only digressed once, to see Avoca, because Heather is a big Ballykissangel fan.”

While they enjoyed looking round the village itself, Brian continues, “unfortunately, the quality of food served in the pub that featured in the TV series didn’t live up to expectations. Heather laughs. “We should have asked Robert about it first!”

“The cliff-top paths in glorious sunshine…

fantastic.”

Join the Medhursts on a round-Ireland road trip to remember

Emerald explorers

Heather and Brian Medhurst had heard so many good reports from friends, saying how welcoming Ireland was. Having not visited since 1963, on a one-day university trip from Bangor, they were keen to see more. Their relaxing self-drive tour gave them the freedom to really get to know the country.

Robert recommendsIn Ireland, our holidays cover the whole

island – from North to South, East to

West, and points in between! We offer

a host of experiences, like whiskey tours, wildlife, golf and foodie tours.

We can arrange self-drive tours, or private guides, and feature a selection

of public transport options. Our local

knowledge, along with our preference

for small independent hotels and guesthouses, mean you can enjoy the

authentic Ireland.

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on location Ireland

Stunning scenery, coupled with favourable tax breaks, have made Ireland a popular location for filming, including Hollywood blockbusters. In fact, Braveheart wasn’t actually filmed in Scotland at all! We can put together a tailormade tour of Ireland based on film locations, including recommendations on where to visit.


travellers’ talesIn the last issue of See Scotland and Ireland Differently, we invited readers to send us their stories from a McKinlay Kidd holiday. We were delighted with the response, and thoroughly enjoyed reading a range of different tales – but for us, there was one clear winner.

We felt the story below, entitled ‘Snapshots from a Flash Journey’ by Robert and Francesca Boyle captures the exhilaration of the world’s shortest scheduled flight between Westray and Papa Westray.

Twominutesandfifteenseconds. Welcome to Papa Westray.

August weather, huffy, fine rain spray hovering midair, a

shy sunshine. The prefab that cannot be called a terminal,

a strip of tarmac, a couple of trucks smeared by country

muck. Aberdeen cattle watching on, slightly bemused,

uninterested, twelve big eyes oozing boredom peeking

over the drystone dyke. Fair Isle patterns, dungarees,

heavy waterproofs. Yellow wellies and a shock of red curls.

Smiles. A weathered tweed cap over salty wrinkles.

An old man, a wifey with two bags of shopping, she’s

been for her prescriptions. A blether about the children.

They have grown up now, nods the pilot. Yesterday’s rain,

a new ewe up at Stuart’s. Giggles, laughters, sweet puffs

of lilting voices. See you on Tuesday. Our diligent rucksack,

a new film, a windproof jacket, neatly-folded maps that will

remain tucked in our pockets. The Islander throbs upwards

in a short breath of flight. It’s like watching a film that we

love. We soar up, foretasting, a high steady heart rate.

Pull the handle in case of an emergency landing. A small

window on the immensity of the seas. Flashes of blue,

white, green, and land, land? As Robert and I clutch

hands. With threads of clouds still tied round our necks

we heave and get perched on the edge of the world.

What’s your story? tell us and you could win £200What memories did you bring back from your McKinlay Kidd holiday? Perhaps it’s the story of someone you met, an unforgettable place you stayed, or something special that you saw.

From enchanted castles to soaring eagles, from friendly locals to breathtaking views, the things we treasure from our holidays are personal to us. But if you can make the story of your holiday come to life, you could win a £200 McKinlay Kidd holiday voucher.

We’re not looking for long epic stories – just a short tale, well told. One that captures what made your McKinlay Kidd holiday special. And all in around 300 words. So if you have a great story, why not send It to us? In addition to the prize, we’ll feature our favourite ones on our website and in our brochure. And of course, your holiday moment might be yet to happen – so you can write about 2013 holidays too.

Congratulations, Robert & Francesca Boyle We hope you enjoy your £200 McKinlay Kidd voucher.

Hear my Song

Based loosely on

the life of Irish tenor,

Joseph Locke, this

film features the

awe-inspiring Cliffs of

Moher, County Clare.

The Shore

Won the 2012

“Short Film” Oscar,

set in Killough,

Northern Ireland,

the home of director

Terry George.

Educating Rita

Although the story

is set in Liverpool,

much of the filming

took place at Trinity

College, Dublin.

Michael Collins

Some historic scenes

were filmed in their

actual locations,

such as the GPO in

Dublin, plus outside

the city in the

Wicklow mountains.

Ondine

Neil Jordan’s

whimsical love

story of a fisherman

and a mermaid

(or is she?) was

filmed around Beara,

County Cork.

Far and Away

This romantic

epic starring

Tom Cruise and

Nicole Kidman

was filmed in

the Dingle

Peninsula.

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Braveheart

The famous scene of kilted rears flying

into battle actually took place around the

Curragh in Kildare, with other scenes in

the Wicklows and Trim Castle.

Saving Private Ryan

The memorable opening scenes of this

powerful film, depicting the D-Day landings,

were actually staged in County Wexford.

The Quiet Man

John Ford’s 1950s classic

starring John Wayne was

filmed in Cong in County

Mayo on the west coast.7

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Titanic!

The Titanic Visitor Experience in Belfast

includes a section on the cinematic history

of the tragedy. Amazingly, the now lost film,

‘Saved from the Titanic’ was released just

29 days after the sinking! It was co-written by

and starred Titanic survivor Dorothy Gibson.

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10

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5

8

6

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9

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4

3

2

1918

Holiday highlights“We’d been to Dublin in the past and explored the surrounding area,” says Susan, “and in the seventies, Robert had been on business trips to Belfast, Cork and Dublin.”

In trying to sum up their holiday, the pair found there were almost too many highlights to name just one! But some of their favourites included visiting Drumbeg Stone Circle, Dunbrody Famine Ship and Doagh Famine Village.

The village is a uniquely ambitious attempt to tell the whole story of Ireland, and ranges from prehistory through the famine, up to the Troubles and even to the current financial crisis. It’s a visitor attraction that certainly stays in the memory.

Seeing evidence of the Troubles in Belfast and Londonderry made a strong impression, as did walking the Garnish Loop on the Ring of Beara, and “hiking along stretches of the magnificent Antrim coast, and climbing Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park.”

Quirky and charmingAnd, remembers Robert, “we were impressed by the high standard of cuisine with an emphasis on fresh local food.” This was especially true of a meal they enjoyed to celebrate Susan’s birthday, at a hotel recommended by McKinlay Kidd.

They found all the places they stayed had a warm welcome, as well as high standard of rooms and food. But one place really stood out as special – with its waterside location in County Galway, and quirky and charming collection of antiques and original art.

Tried and tested “Booking with McKinlay Kidd,” says Robert, “meant we were able to visit all of the places we wanted to see, knowing the accommodation, and the travel times had been tried and tested – and therefore we were going to have a stress-free holiday.”

Recalling both this holiday and their previous experience, as he puts it, “we have definitely seen Scotland and Ireland differently thanks to McKinlay Kidd.”

It wasn’t their first holiday with Mckinlay Kidd. As Robert explains, “In 2010 we had a fantastic month driving our own car and exploring the Trossachs, the Islands of Harris, Lewis, Orkney, Shetland, Skye and Uist and also the northernmost part of mainland Scotland.”

So, when the Bushells decided they wanted to tour Ireland, they knew who to talk to. They simply called and said what they were looking for, and were delighted to receive suggested holiday itineraries within days of enquiring.

After poring over guidebooks, Susan and Robert discussed their plans with McKinlay Kidd who worked out the itinerary they wanted.

Incredible varietyOver three weeks, their completely tailormade holiday in Ireland covered Cork, Kerry, Clare, Connemara, Mayo and Donegal, as well as the Antrim Coast, Belfast and County Louth.

“We wanted to explore Ireland at our own pace,” says Robert. ”We wanted to enjoy the natural beauty of the country, its history and to sample the local hospitality.”

They were struck by the incredible variety of different scenery, ranging from the sheer Cliffs of Moher to the limestone plateau of The Burren – a very other-worldly landscape. Another highlight was cruising to Inishmore, one of the Aran Islands.

A journey that began with a blank sheet of paper

Around Ireland our wayFor Robert and Susan Bushell, their tailormade tour of both the North and South of Ireland was all about exploring the beauty of the country in a leisurely way.

“We wanted to explore Ireland at our own pace”


Robert recommendsOur personalised tailormade service is particularly popular for anyone interested in touring Ireland. Why not browse through the holidays on our website to get some initial ideas, then tell us what interests you?

We’ll use our knowledge and experience to design your unique Irish holiday. The more you tell us, the more we can make sure the proposal is just right for you. Do let us know if you are celebrating a special occasion, or if you have any specific requirements.20 21


In 2003, Robert Kidd and Heather McKinlay launched a new travel company, aimed at helping independent-minded people get the most out of their holiday. Initially their focus was on Scotland, and later they would take the same approach to Ireland. Since that day almost ten years ago, they have helped their customers to see Scotland and Ireland differently.

The McKinlay Kidd team visiting the truly impressive Titanic Belfast Visitor Experience in December 2012.

Ten years of seeing things differently

Robert and Heather started their business from home, initially working out of the dining room in their Edinburgh terraced house.

Between them, the pair had many years’ experience of working in the travel industry – and believed they could offer people a more authentic holiday. This would be based on real local knowledge, and a policy of only recommending something they’d experienced and enjoyed themselves.

Working from home“I remember we just had an iMac, our home printer and the help of a part-time assistant,” says Robert. “We started out by taking small classified ads in The Sunday Times. It certainly worked for us – and soon we had our first customers, British people who were living in Holland.”

And were their first customers happy with their holiday? “Well,” says Heather, “they’ve since travelled with us again, which speaks volumes.” Since then customers have often chosen to book several holidays through McKinlay Kidd – with an increasing number visiting first Scotland, then Ireland.

Read all about itSince those early days, McKinlay Kidd have been featured in an ever-wider range of titles – in press as diverse as the Financial Times and the Yorkshire Post, as well as publications such as Sainsbury’s Magazine and the Oldie, and even the back of some breakfast cereal packets!

In addition to the interest in the UK, they have appeared in titles like the Sydney Morning Telegraph and the New York Times – perhaps not surprising, when you consider that many of their customers are visiting from overseas.

And the winner is…Over the years, McKinlay Kidd have won a number of prestigious travel industry awards. As Robert says, “it’s always great to win – don’t believe anyone who tells you otherwise!”

As he and Heather explain, their 2007 Thistle Award win meant a great deal to them, as it – and their other Thistle nominations – reflect the respect and recognition of their peers in the travel industry. In fact, they were delighted to do well once again last year, when McKinlay Kidd was chosen as a Regional Winner.

Customer accolades“But,” says Heather, “for us, the two Guardian/Observer Awards we’ve won mean so much more.” There’s a simple reason for this: the awards are voted for by customers themselves, and reflect the holiday experiences of real people.

So, when last year they won the Best Small Tour Operator Award for the second year in a row, everyone at McKinlay Kidd was delighted. It seemed a great way to celebrate their first decade in business.

“The past ten years have certainly been exciting,” reflects Robert. “We’ve got some great plans to offer even more holidays in future – and I can’t wait to find out what the next ten years bring!”

Team Highlights The McKinlay Kidd team is made up of a small group of people who are dedicated to making sure customers have a holiday to remember. Because everything the company recommends has to be experienced by one of the team, over the years they’ve carried out lots of recce visits. Here they talk about their favourite moments,

Heather, Director “Going out on a whale-watching trip off the Isle of Mull in September 2005 hoping to see some minke whales, then being stunned and delighted to see two killer whales – we watched them up close for over half an hour, and felt very lucky and privileged to see them.”

Robert, Director “As an Irishman, I like to think I know a thing or two about good pubs that do brilliant live traditional music. So it was real delight when I came across the perfect Irish music bar in Donegal in 2010. It’s never been bettered…, yet!”

Jennette, PR 2004-2009 “My best memory? It has to be picking up McKinlay Kidd’s first ever award in Edinburgh in 2007. What a great night!”

Michael, Carol’s 3-year-old son “I went on the pirate ship to Balamory.” (It was actually the ferry to Mull, where the kids’ TV programme is filmed in Tobermory – but we won’t let that spoil a good story!)

Julie, Operations “Orkney encapsulates a bit of everything. Particular highlights were Skara Brae, Maeshowe and the Ring of Brodgar – but I was surprised to discover Kirkwall had a very vibrant ‘cosmopolitan’ feel. The wide open spaces, ‘big sky’ and dramatic coastline of the islands allow you to feel you’re standing on the edge of the Earth at times.”

Robert’s round-up

In ten years, it’s remarkable how

the numbers mount up!

• 60,000 miles driven

• 135 ferry journeys

• 2,000 hotel rooms viewed

• 71 Scottish beaches

• 38 Irish beaches

And 112 bowls of porridge!

I always say, you can tell

a lot about a hotel kitchen

from their porridge.

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To find out more about our holidays visit:





Isle of Ulva, by Jeff Ashbrook

Pipe Bank Championships, by Mark Harris

Woodstock Gardens, Co Kilkenny, by Anna Brennan

View from Sleat peninsula, Isle of Skye, by Chai Beh

We were delighted at the response when we asked to see your photographs of Scotland and Ireland – and found it hard to pick a winner!

If you have pictures from your holiday that show either Ireland or Scotland with a difference, we’d love to see them. And if we choose your picture, you’ll win a £200 McKinlay Kidd voucher.

To enter, simply post your photograph on our Facebook fan page or email it to [email protected] (see website for terms and conditions). Competition closes 31st October 2013.

Good luck! Do you have a way with words? You can also win a £200 McKinlay Kidd voucher by telling us your travel story. See page 19 for our latest winner and for details of how to enter.

WINNER: Jackie Boyce.Jackie says: “The place is Lochan, in between Ballachulish and Glencoe. A chap had built a large house there for him and his Canadian wife and imported the trees from Canada to make her feel at home – but she never stayed and seemingly he was heartbroken. The house lay empty for some time and was eventually turned into a nursing home. It’s now empty again, but it’s a lovely walk up to the house. And where the trees are, you can look over the water. A lot of the locals sit and have a quiet time fishing and chatting and go for walks round the grounds of the house. A wee sad story really for such a lovely place.”

A different view

McKinlay Kidd Brochure 2013

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Transcript of McKinlay Kidd Brochure 2013