Steam train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by lush green hills

EXCLUSIVE EVENTS

Explore The Private Traveller’s World of Exclusive Use, Private Hire, and Bespoke Celebrations

Discover a curated collection of extraordinary venues and tailor-made experiences — from private castle buyouts and luxury country estates to spa takeovers and residential rail journeys.

With a special focus on Edinburgh and Scotland, I work with clients to plan unforgettable celebrations, milestone birthdays, micro weddings, and immersive retreats — all with elegance, intention, and seamless service.

Whether you're dreaming of a formal banquet in a historic setting or a relaxed weekend gathering in the Highlands, I’ll help you bring it to life — with exclusive access and personalised guidance every step of the way.

Kilchurn Castle reflected in Loch Awe, surrounded by autumnal Scottish Highlands scenery

Plan Your Celebration with Confidence

Based in Edinburgh and having travelled extensively across Scotland and beyond, I’ve experienced many of the country’s finest hotels, castles, restaurants, spas, and distilleries firsthand. Whether you’re looking to host an exclusive event in the Highlands, a private celebration in a historic city venue, or a wellness retreat by the coast, I can help curate the perfect setting and experience.

From meticulous planning and private hire logistics to personal touches like bespoke branding, custom stationery, and hand-picked gifts for your guests — every detail is thoughtfully considered. I can even connect you with my graphic designer for event branding or help you plan whisky tastings, chef-led dinners, and full weekend itineraries for your group.

If you’re thinking about planning something special, I’d love to help.

👉 Submit your event enquiry here and I’ll be in touch to begin curating your bespoke celebration.

For travel inspiration and behind-the-scenes highlights from past journeys, you can also explore my destination itineraries or follow along on Instagram for more photos, ideas, and planning tips.

Sample 5-Day Itinerary:
A Celebration Like No Other

The Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands with a classic steam train crossing — famously known as the route of the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films, surrounded by dramatic green hills.

Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome

  • VIP meet and greet at Edinburgh Airport

  • Private transfer to your chosen luxury accommodation:

    • Fingal Edinburgh – a former Northern Lighthouse Board ship, now a five-star floating hotel

    • Gleneagles Townhouse – contemporary elegance in St Andrew Square

    • Prestonfield House – opulent and theatrical, nestled beside Arthur’s Seat

  • Optional kilt fitting session for a touch of tradition

  • Private Johnnie Walker Experience with whisky tastings

  • Rooftop drinks reception at Lamplighters

  • Private dinner at Number One at The Balmoral, Edinburgh’s Michelin-starred icon

Edinburgh Castle perched on Castle Rock, an iconic historic fortress overlooking the city, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery under a bright blue sky.

Day 2 – Relaxation, Golf & Ghosts

  • Morning options:

    • Spa treatments at a luxury retreat

    • A round of golf at Prestonfield Golf Club, dramatically set beneath Arthur’s Seat

    • Or a curated whisky tasting tour through Edinburgh and the Lothians

  • Personal shopping experience with optional stylist

  • Private tour of Edinburgh Castle and free time on the Royal Mile

  • Evening ghost tour with exclusive vault access

  • Atmospheric dinner at The Witchery by the Castle

Elegant vintage train interior with polished wood paneling, patterned upholstery, and white tablecloths set for dining — capturing the golden age of luxury rail travel.

Day 3 – Signature Experiences on the Rails

Option 1 – The Jacobite Steam Train (Harry Potter Train)

  • Private carriage or full charter of the world-famous steam train from Fort William to Mallaig

  • Champagne service and live traditional music onboard

  • Scenic stops including Glenfinnan Viaduct

  • Return by luxury coach, or optional overnight stay in the Highlands

Option 2 – Belmond Royal Scotsman Private Charter

  • An unforgettable journey aboard the UK’s most luxurious train

  • Gourmet lunch, whisky pairings, and Highland views in total comfort

  • Onboard entertainment options: harpist, storyteller, whisky expert

Evening return to Edinburgh or countryside estate

Historic Scottish castle with round turrets and stone battlements, ideal for luxury private events and exclusive hire in Edinburgh.

Day 4 – The Highland Celebration

  • Transfer by limousine fleet or vintage cars to your exclusive castle venue (e.g. Dundas Castle, Borthwick Castle, Inverlochy Castle)

  • Bagpiper welcome and champagne reception

  • Highland activities: clay pigeon shooting, archery, or traditional Highland games

  • Ceilidh with live band, gourmet gala dinner, and optional fireworks display

  • Extra touches:

    • Private photographer in Highland dress

    • Caricature artist

    • Scottish dancers or fireside storytelling

Secluded Scottish stone bridge over a rocky stream with a cascading woodland waterfall surrounded by lush greenery — a hidden natural gem ideal for scenic walks or elopements.

Day 5 – Wind Down & Depart

  • Optional gentle pursuits: scenic walks, spa morning, or leisurely brunch

  • Private transfers to Edinburgh or Glasgow Airport

  • Full concierge assistance at departure

What Makes It Truly Unique?

  • On-site luxury event management – You’ll have me on the ground throughout, ensuring every moment runs flawlessly

  • Curated local partnerships – From castle butlers to whisky masters and stylists

  • Signature Scottish touches – Branded craft gin or whisky, ishga seaweed skincare, bespoke chocolates and more

  • Unrivalled access – Private train journeys, castle takeovers, iconic restaurants, and legendary venues

This Is Just the Beginning

This itinerary is only a sample. I work with Scotland’s best hotels, private estates, distilleries, chefs, and experience providers to create one-of-a-kind celebrations. From floating hotels and Michelin-starred dinners to private Harry Potter train charters and Highland picnics by helicopter, everything is possible — and entirely personalised to you.

Let’s plan something extraordinary.

Get in touch

If you want to contact me, please either fill in the planning form above, email me at dave.gillan@fora.travel or leave your details here.
I will get back to you as soon as possible.