Cory is a highly accomplished outdoor leader with a diverse skill set and an impressive array of qualifications. Recently completing the Wilderness Guide Training Programme to become a Wild Scotland Wilderness Guide.
Founder
A Wilderness Guide and Educator
International Mountain Guide
British Canoeing Endorsed Guide
Founder – Cory Jones FRGS, MSc, PGCE, APIOL
Cory is a highly accomplished outdoor leader with a diverse skill set and an impressive array of qualifications. Recently completing the Wilderness Guide Training Programme to become a Wild Scotland Wilderness Guide.
With his background in education as a qualified teacher (PGCE) and his work in biodiversity, Cory has held leadership roles such as: Centre Manager at Malham Tarn Field Centre
Head of Biodiversity and Lifelong Learning for the Sheffield Wildlife Trust
Manager of the Lake District National Park Education Service
Rainforest Conservation Project Manager in the Philippines.
Cory is also the Director of Outdoor First Aid Limited and co-leads the First Aid Training Co-operative, demonstrating his expertise in safety and outdoor education.
Since 2001, Cory has guided expeditions around the globe for renowned UK-based adventure companies such as KE Adventure, Mountain Kingdoms, and Wilderness Expertise. His travels have taken him to the far corners of the world, leading adventures in destinations such as:
The big mountain ranges of Pakistan, Ladakh, Nepal, and Patagonia
The deserts and wilderness of the Middle East and Africa
Remote regions of Bolivia, India, China, Tibet, Kenya, Namibia, Malawi, Jordan, Uganda, Guyana and Antartica.
One of his most remarkable achievements was leading a three-man team to successfully cross the Southern Patagonian Ice Cap in 2009/10—a place notorious for having some of the world’s harshest weather conditions.
Cory’s passion for adventure extends to his personal explorations with Mandy Elizabeth Rush. Together, they walked 750 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, completed the 390-mile Oregon Coast Trail, kayaked in the San Juan Islands off Vancouver, and paddled the Powell River Canoe Trail. These incredible journeys are documented on their YouTubechannel and in their blog on Wee Wild Adventures.
Cory’s dedication to exploration and education has earned him the prestigious title of Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS), a mark of distinction among explorers and geographers worldwide.
Now based in the Highlands of Scotland, Cory offers guided tours that delve into the history, landscapes, and wildlife of this stunning region. His tours blend his global expertise with a deep love for Scotland, providing visitors with unforgettable, immersive experiences that celebrate the Highlands’ natural and cultural heritage.
Sea Kayak Leader
Mountain Leader
Orienteering Instructor
British Canoeing Endorsed Guide
International Mountain Guide
Ambassador for the Mountain Weather Information Service
Mandy Elizabeth Rush is a passionate and knowledgeable tour guide, author, and creative professional who brings Scotland’s history, culture, and natural beauty to life. Based in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.
Tour Guide
Exercise Professional and Coach
Blogger and Author
Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Author
Mandy draws inspiration from her surroundings for her books, designs, and bespoke tours. Through her business, Highland Experiences, and her travel website, Wee Wild Adventures, Mandy creates unique experiences and stories that connect people to the heart of Scotland..
Scottish-born and bred, Mandy has over 14 years of experience in the tourism industry, specialising in guided tours that showcase Scotland’s rich heritage. As a HOSTGA-certified guide, she offers immersive tours that span iconic sites like Culloden Battlefield, the wild beauty of the Highlands, and bespoke itineraries tailored to her clients’ interests. Mandy’s CertHE in Highland Heritage for Tourism complements her deep-rooted knowledge of Scotland, ensuring each tour is an engaging journey into the past and present.
Mandy is also the author of enchanting books inspired by Scotland’s folklore, history, and landscapes. Her recent works include “The Beastly Bogles Save Bannockburn House”, a delightful children’s story that captures the magic of Scottish culture, and more books in the pipeline to share Scotland’s stories with young readers and families. Mandy’s creative pursuits extend beyond writing, with expertise in design and media production that enhance her ability to share Scotland’s story through multiple platforms.
Mandy’s impressive educational background supports her multifaceted career:
2:1 BSc Honours in Politics and Social Policy
HND in Visual Communications
CertHE in Highland Heritage for Tourism
HNC in Education, History, and Sociology
CELTA English Teacher
Exercise Professional - Exercise to Music, OTAGO, Gym Instructor, Personal Trainer, Coach in Running Fitness, Indoor Cycling Instructor and more.
Her qualifications also include certifications in early childhood education, fitness, and motivational interviewing, demonstrating her holistic approach to learning, wellbeing, and community connection.
Mandy’s travel website, Wee Wild Adventures, serves as a hub for her creative projects, books, and insights into Scotland’s Highlands. Visitors can explore her colourful wall art, browse her blog, and discover her journey of preserving and sharing Scotland’s cultural and natural treasures.
Fluent in German, Mandy offers tours tailored to international visitors, ensuring they feel welcome and included in the Highlands. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences is a cornerstone of her guiding philosophy.
Living by the ocean in the Scottish Highlands, Mandy is deeply inspired by Scotland’s wild beauty, history, and folklore. Her mission is to share this passion with others, whether through guided tours, her creative works, or her travel website. She is a true ambassador for Scotland, combining her expertise, artistry, and storytelling to create unforgettable experiences for all who journey with her.