About Me
Born and raised near Fort William, I grew up at the foot of Ben Nevis, highest peak in the UK. I learned folklore and history from my Gaelic-speaking mother; understanding of flora and fauna from my father; and a hands-on knowledge of the secret geography of the country from both of them. There’s nothing I like better than unveiling the “off the beaten track” treasures for your pleasure.
|
I studied Geography, Geology and Scottish History at Glasgow University, the better to understand my country. My work, up until the turn of the millennium, involved developing and promoting heritage and tourism for various Scottish tourist boards and the Highland Council.
From the year 2000 I took employment with “The National Trust for Scotland”. This came with responsibility for managing both Brodie Castle and Culloden Battlefield. It was during this period that I realised the long-held dream of becoming a fully-fledged author, having now written four acclaimed books. |
Since 2007 I have delighted in showing visitors around my beloved country as a tour guide, and these tours show the best of the magnificent scenery and tales of the people of long ago. I joined the Highlands of Scotland Tour Guide Association (HOSTGA) and ran the business Inverness Tours, from 2013 until 2023.
Another fun aspect of touring can be sharing book and film locations, like the Harry Potter movies. I enjoy leading book tours tailored to Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher and the Outlander books by Diana Gabaldon. I also enjoyed guiding Diana Gabaldon in person. |
I know the prettiest glens, the best views, the most inspiring waterfalls, and the ruined castles and towers with the blackest of legends. My authentic Jacobite gear and weapons showings help bring historical journeys to life. I am ready and waiting to share my culture with you.
My Ford Tourneo Custom easily accommodates up to seven passengers in its roomy and air-conditioned interior. The reclining leather seats and tinted windows ensure touring in comfort and style. |
Reviews from previous guests
Hugh Allison made our trip more than memorable - it was EPIC!
Oct 2022
Most of the reviews here already use the words "trip of a lifetime" and "best part of our trip" so I will refrain from being redundant but I COULD NOT AGREE MORE!
Due to Covid, our "trip of a lifetime" took almost 3 years to actually happen. We had traveled a week in Ireland and was on our week in Scotland, when Hugh collected us for an Outlander Tour from Culloden House, where we were staying.
Honestly, it was love at first site. He walked in the front door in his kilt and was immediately gracious, easy going and happy to give us the best day of our trip.
We fully enjoyed our day with him (it was just my husband and I - which was amazing!) He is a true historian and while he did bring the Outlander thread into the whole tour, we found we were more enthralled by his ability to bring the true history of all the places we visited to life for us.
As we were only with him for the one day, he took the time to give us advice on what to see and do based on the rest of our Scotland adventure. He was RIGHT on all counts and we were so happy we took his advice!
One day, if we can swing it, we would LOVE to revisit Hugh and Inverness Tours with our family, perhaps for a longer trip!
Superb Guided Tour--Dark Deeds, Monks, Castles
Hugh A., the owner, is simply a wonderful guide and human being. We spent a Sunday with him, 8 of us in his van, exploring the countryside east of Inverness.
He is SO knowledgeable about the history, but animated to bring it all to life, not just a history lesson. He treated us like family, even made a special trip back to town to bring a rain jacket that was left in his van. We did many guided tours during our three weeks in Scotland and all my friends said Hugh was their favorite.
I'm sure there are other wonderful guides in Inverness, but I can't imagine any of them could be better.
It is clear that Hugh does not need another 5 star review but here is one anyway.
Nov 2022
He is an experienced guide and passionate about Highlands History. He took us on a day trip from Inverness to the Isle of Skye return. It seemed like he had every detail of the road trip memorized - a total pro.
He's a great conversationalist and time goes by quickly with him. Seems like the go to guy if you are an Outlander fan. He's also an author, which gives you a feel for what an interesting bloke he is.
Inverness Tours with Hugh Allison
Jun 2022
Six of us did a Four Day Outlander Tour with Hugh Allison, Inverness Tours, in June 2022. It was fabulous. Hugh is an expert on many topics including Scottish history, all things Outlander, "trad" Scottish music, whiskey, where to stop on the tour route including good restrooms, and is a really witty guy. He knows the author personally which added a few more interesting tidbits,
He brings experience which can only be gained by being an old school highlander, a historian, and a former manager of the Culloden Battlegrounds. He has written a few books on the topic.
Not only did we see amazing sights and meet interesting people along the way, I came away with a great appreciation of what it means to be a Highlander. PS I have only read 2 Outlander books so you don't need to be a fan to enjoy the stories, the sites, the music, the food, and the jokes!