The Bright Bus Tours open-top sightseeing operation in Edinburgh that is part of McGill’s Bus Group has begun a transition to falling under the Big Bus Tours global brand.
Such collaboration places Edinburgh as the 28th city within the Big Bus Tours portfolio. The change is described as “a significant milestone” for McGill’s as the business takes Bright Bus Tours “into a new chapter.”
The operation was established by First Bus in 2019 to compete with established open-top services in the Scottish capital run by Lothian. If came into McGill’s ownership in 2022 when the independent business bought the First Scotland East undertaking.
A shift to the Big Bus Tours brand is “an incredibly exciting moment for McGill’s,” says CEO Tony Williamson. “Bright Bus Tours has become a much-loved part of the Edinburgh tourism landscape and this new partnership with Big Bus Tours takes that offering to the next level,” he continues.
“We are proud to bring our local expertise to the table, and equally proud to join forces with a global leader in sightseeing. Together, we are ready to create something exceptional for the city.”
Big Bus Tours Executive Chairman Pat Waterman has welcomed the addition of the Scottish capital to its open-top portfolio.
“Edinburgh’s fantastic history, vibrant festivals, rich culture and architectural splendour make is an outstanding addition to our global offerings. Our goal is to give customers a truly immersive experience as they explore this iconic Scottish city,” he says.
The Bright Bus Airport Express brand for a service to Edinburgh Airport that began in 2024 will be retained, a McGill’s spokesperson has confirmed.
