James Leslie STGA Tour Leader review.

Working with The White Rose Guild, which has brought a specialist focus to a niche area of the market, is a rewarding experience.  The Guild provide bespoke travel experiences for discerning travellers who are looking beyond the everyday experience.  Instead, the Guild has established links with specialist craft workers, artists and storytellers all working in traditional skills, or representing the culture and heritage of Scotland.  

 

As a guide, this is an exciting approach that takes tours well beyond the ordinary.  The Guild work with guides to bring Scotland’s amazing history to life by putting a contemporary twist onto well-known images.  Guests can explore any aspect of Scotland’s culture and traditions.  They can meet the weavers who produce tartan;, view pieces of tartan that belonged to Bonnie Prince Charlie, or hear the history of its development; they can meet modern craftsmen who replicate the weapons used by the clansmen who fought for the Stuart cause; they can meet modern stone carvers who carry on the tradition that led to Pictish symbol stones more than a millennia ago; they can meet silversmiths who work this precious metal into unique pieces imbued with the passion of Scotland. These are all are local people looking to keep alive Scotland’s traditions and heritage through their work.   I love the concept of visitors getting the opportunity to meet personally with national experts in their field, feeling the passion that they have for their chosen crafts and spending time watching them at their work or even being given a hands-on opportunity to experience their work. These are all people who have dedicated their lives to their crafts and acquired knowledge and passion that goes far beyond the routine. They love the opportunity to explore Scotland’s amazing traditions with visitors.

 

There are no standard packages here, but rather a determined effort to match the interests of the guest with his wide range of specialist artisans.  As a guide, this is a refreshing approach, opening doors to new tours and experiences.  Prior to delivery of a recent tour, WRG was in regular personal contact, ensuring that every aspect of the tour was planned to perfection, and always considering how the tour could be made better or more personal. The opportunity to meet with specialists who interpret different aspects of our culture in unique and modern ways; to engage with descendants of people who have shaped Scotland’s history; to view items that belonged to some of our most famous Scots is an exhilarating experience.

 

The White Rose Guild provide hands-on history – experiences that you simply do not get with most other operators.  Their attention to detail, their access to experts in their field, and their focus on ensuring that every single guest has an unforgettable and unique experiment is second to none.