Alan
Me in 3 words – Hilarious | Humble | Handsome!
My favourite place in Scotland – I love all of Scotland, how can you not? But there is no place like home. My favourite place has to be my home in my hometown Skelmorie.
My Scottish hero – James Watt. He was a Scottish inventor, mechanical engineer, and chemist who improved on Thomas Newcomen's 1712 Newcomen steam engine with his Watt steam engine in 1776.
What is your passion? I have two passions, one being that I love to share my country with friends, family and visitors, but I also have a great love for furniture. Big or small, old or new, every piece is beautiful in its own way.
Tell us about you and where you live? I grew up in Greenock, went to school in Glasgow and now live in Skelmorie, North Ayrshire. I have worked as a supporting actor in a series some of you may have heard of - Outlander…I played one of the informants to Lord John in episode 5, season 6. I have also 'starred' in Shetland, Still Game, Two Doors Down, Irvin Welsh's Crime and River City! Along side acting, I was a retailer of fine furniture, running my own business for several years. Now I get to tour Scotland with great people, showing them the beauty the country has to offer!
Do you have a favourite tour? Without a doubt, it’s the Outer Hebrides, Orkney and Highlands tour. Absolutely stunning! Full of history, scenic landscapes, and coastal landscapes, it takes your breath away every time you visit.
What's your favourite drink amongst friends? I do love a good tipple so it must be a fine whisky and good wine – not together I might add! There is nothing better than sitting with friends, having a good chat with a nice drink in hand.
When you’re not on tour? I’m a lover of 2 wheels, so when I’m not on tour you’ll find me in my leathers and helmet ready for a ride on the open road. The dog always wants a walk, with so many lovely places to go, if I’m not on 2 wheels I’m stretching my legs on a dog walk. I like to think I’m green fingered, so I do enjoy getting my hands dirty spending time in the garden.
What do you love about Scotland? So many things, the list could go on and on! I would have to say it’s history, culture and sense of humour!
What people say...
'We would give Alan the highest rating imaginable! From the moment he greeted us at our hotel we knew that we were in for a fantastic tour. Our family of four had the time of our lives exploring the highlands with Alan - his sense of humour, attention to details, storytelling, concern and vast expanse of knowledge made this the most memorable week. And the little treats he left on our seats in the van were much appreciated and enjoyed. We started with a tour guide and left with a friend.'Lisa C, New York
'Our awesome driver, Alan, guided our small group (4 of us) all over Scotland, pointing out highlights, history, and "we go where the big busses don't go" spots. Alan was extremely personable and accommodating, making several adjustments for us along the trip. He always made sure we had what we needed, and double-checked the accommodations before we arrived.'Andy A, Florida