Stories from the road
On Set in the Highlands: The Film Stories I Tell My Guests
I've been driving people around the Highlands since 2017, and one thing never changes. The minute I mention a film, every head in the vehicle turns. So here are a few of the stories I share on tour. Some you'll find in guidebooks. Most you won't.
The day I drove past The Traitors
I was guiding a group staying at Wyvis Estate, taking them out from the Main House and the Pink House to distilleries all over Scotland. One morning there were coffins floating in the water on the estate. I had no idea why. My son, a big fan of the show, knew straight away: The Traitors was filming. The castle you see on screen is Ardross Castle, just up the road. I'll be honest, I've still not watched it. But my guests love hearing that I saw the coffins first.
Harry Potter's hidden woods
On the way to Wyvis there's a gorge at Black Rock, near Evanton. It's not signposted, and most visitors drive straight past. Locals will tell you it was used for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Whether or not you're a fan, it's one of the most dramatic little walks in Ross-shire: a deep, mossy slot of a gorge with the river roaring below. Harry Potter fans in particular go very quiet when we get there.
The prop builder who wouldn't say a word
I once drove a prop builder working on a big production on the east coast. He would not tell me the film, no matter how I asked. On our last airport run he finally gave in, with a grin: it was called “Charlie's Tale”, top secret, kids only. Months later, Tom Holland turned up in Inverness, and my son put two and two together. Charlie's Tale was The Odyssey. I'm still waiting for my credit.
The classics: Highlander and Eilean Donan
Then there are the ones every film lover knows. Eilean Donan Castle starred in the original Highlander and has appeared in more films than I can count. It's on our Skye route, and I've got the stories to go with it.
Come and see for yourself
Every tour I run is private, so we can build in as many film locations as you like, from Outlander country to the quiet woods nobody else visits. Get in touch and tell me which films you love. I'll fill in the gaps.
Every tour I run is private, so we can build in as many film locations as you like.
Book a private tour with Highland Tony