Choose from 155 Fun Things to Do in Scotland
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Loch Lomond
Straddling both the Scottish Highlands and the Lowlands, this island-studded loch boasts the largest surface area of any of Scotland’s lakes. It’s also one of its most famous, thanks in no small part to a well-known Scottish folk song that speaks of its “bonnie banks.” The lake’s mirror-clear waters reflect the crags and peaks that rear up around it, most notably the 3,195-foot (974-meter) Ben Lomond on its eastern shore, whose summit offers views of both Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
The Basics
Loch Lomond is commonly visited on day tours from Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the cruise port of Greenock, with many tours and day trips also stopping in nearby destinations such as Oban, Inveraray, Loch Ness, Loch Awe, Stirling Castle, and the William Wallace Monument. While you can drive, walk, or cycle around the loch’s shores, it’s most rewarding to go out on the water itself. Rent kayaks or canoes, or book tickets on a cruise from Tarbet to see the wild scenery of the north shores of the loch.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wheelchair- and stroller-friendly trails can be found along the shores of Loch Lomond.
- In winter, the hills and mountains become icy and snowy, and should only be tackled by those with sufficient mountaineering experience.
- Scotland is known for its notoriously changeable weather; bring layers and be prepared for sunshine one minute and rain the next.
- Bring insect repellent to fend off midges (gnats).
How to Get There
With its southern tip just 25 miles (40 kilometers) northwest of Glasgow, Loch Lomond is an easily accessible wilderness. The main access points are Balloch on the south shore and Luss on the west shore. From Glasgow Queen Street, ScotRail runs a direct, 50-minute train service to Balloch and another route to Arrochar and Tarbet, about a 15-minute walk from Tarbet. Driving to Balloch takes just 35 minutes from Glasgow and about 90 minutes from Edinburgh. Tour typically include round-trip transport from Glasgow and Edinburgh.
When to Get There
Loch Lomond has year-round appeal. Spring is wildflower season, autumn brings fantastic fall foliage, and winter promises snow-dusted mountain vistas. Despite seeing the most visitors, summer is probably the best option weather-wise. The vast size of the lake and the national park means the area rarely feels crowded.
Island-Hopping in Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond features more than 30 islands. Among the largest of them is Inchmurrin, home to the ruins of the 14th-century Lennox Castle. North of Inchmurrin is Inchcailloch, an easily accessible island with a 13th-century church and several attractive woodland walking trails.
Address: Highway A82, Luss G83 8PA, Scotland
Hours: Open daily
From $ 47
Lochranza Castle
Lochranza Castle is a medieval castle on the Isle of Arran in southwestern Scotland. It sits on a narrow strip of land that juts out into Loch Ranza, and even though it is in ruins, it is still a fascinating castle to visit. Originally the castle was an old hall house built in the 1200s, but in the late 1500s it was incorporated into a newer tower house. The older castle had its main entrance one level up from the ground level. It was accessed by wooden stairs that could be removed if the castle was under attack. When the castle was rebuilt, the entrance was moved to the ground level.
Lochranza Castle was most likely owned by the MacSween family at one time, though ownership changed around the time of its reconstruction. When the tower house was built, the tower stood five stories tall. Today it is possible to access the ground level at the north and south ends of the castle as well as parts of the upper level.
Practical Info
Lochranza Castle is located on the Isle of Arran about 62 miles from Glasgow.
Address: Isle of Arran, Scotland
From $ 362
Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition
Using projections and special effects, this immersive exhibition focuses on the ecology of Loch Ness and the mysterious monster that supposedly swims its waters. Curious visitors find out about the lake habitat and the likelihood of a monster surviving here, as well as learning about previous monster hunts, research missions, and hoaxes.
The Basics
The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition is spread across seven themed areas, each offering high-tech multimedia presentations focusing on Scotland’s most storied loch. Visitors can review the evidence regarding Nessie’s existence with exhibits that help separate fact from fiction. Organized tours from Inverness often combine a visit to the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition with a cruise on the lake itself, and—on some tours—a trip to the ruins of Urquhart Castle, an atmospheric medieval fortress set on the banks of Loch Ness.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition is a must-see for those who want to delve into the Loch Ness Monster mystery.
- Travel light. The center has no left luggage facilities so avoid bringing anything bigger than a backpack.
- A coffee shop serving drinks and casual meals can be found at the center, as can a gift shop selling Nessie-themed souvenirs.
- The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition is located in Drumnadrochit, 14.5 miles (23 kilometers) south of Inverness. Public transport (bus lines 17,19, 119, and 919) connect Inverness to Drumnadrochit, but departures can be infrequent at times. The easiest way for car-free travelers to go is by organized tour.
When to Get There
The center is open year-round, and is at its quietest first thing in the morning and at last entry. For visitors who want to combine a trip to the center with a cruise on Loch Ness, note that some operators only offer boat cruises between Easter and October.
Key Events in the Nessie Timeline
At the center, visitors can learn all about the important Nessie sightings and research expeditions that have taken place over the years. Among the most famous monster hunt expeditions was that involving the tiny Machan submarine in the 1970s (the submarine is on show here at the center) and Operation Deepscan in 1987, which utilized cutting-edge sonar equipment to trawl the vast loch.
Address: Inverness, Scotland
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Road to the Isles
Dotted with small Scottish towns and with no shortage of scenery, the aptly named “Road to the Isles” is one of Scotland’s most beautiful drives and provides the base for exploring the Small Isles and Skye. Stretching from the base of the UK’s tallest mountain to a port town on the sea, both coastal and mountainous scenery abound. The unspoiled landscapes through the Highlands of Scotland have been the site of many film and television scenes — perhaps most famously in the Harry Potter films.
There are many stops to enjoy along the way, progressing from mountain towns, lochs (or lakes) and glens to isles, inlets, and white sand beaches. Of particular note is Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight lochs with views of the mountain Ben Nevis, and Glenfinnan, home to the historic monument where Bonnie Prince Charlie once raised his Highland army.
Practical Info
The Road to the Isles is located on the western coast of North Scotland, on the A830 road from Fort William to Mallaig. At roughly 46 miles long, it takes just over an hour to drive with no stops (though you will want to stop.) There is also a Jacobite train journey during the summer months that runs to Mallaig. From there you can catch a ferry to the Isle of Skye.
Address: Highland PH33, Scotland, UK, Scotland
From $ 56
St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve
The St. Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve may be the best known destination along the Berwickshire coast of Scotland. Formed by a series of volcanic eruptions, it features dramatic cliffs, a rugged coastline and crystal clear waters. The reserve is especially popular with bird watchers, who flock to see some of the 30,000 guillemots, 3,600 kittiwakes and 1800 razorbills that call the area home. Visitors can also spot seals, dolphins and even whales at times. Traces of an Iron Age settlement have been found within the reserve, as have remnants of a 7th century Christian community founded by a Northumbrian princess.
Three walking trails are available around the reserve and it is fairly easy to cover all three in a day’s visit. The main trail is the Discovery Trail and two loops (the Lighthouse Loop and the Mire Loch Loop) start from the trail. A stroll along all three should take around three hours. Guided walks with park rangers are also available and a nature center showcases the history of the area, nature and wildlife and has leaflets for self-guided tours.
Practical Info
The St. Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve is open daily all year round and the nature center is open April 1 to October 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is only accessible by car. From the A1, take the A1107 to Coldingham, turn right onto Coldingham high street and drive one mile to the entrance.
Address: Northfield, Eyemouth, Scottish Borders, UK TD14 5QF, Scotland
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 14
Iona Abbey
Just off the west coast of Scotland on the Isle of Iona, the Iona Abbey has long been a symbol of Scottish history and religion. It served as a mausoleum for many early Scottish kings, with more than fifty accounted for by the 16th century. It is one of the oldest religious centers in Western Europe. The Irish monk Columba arrived to the island in 563, establishing a monastery that survived for centuries to come. In around the year 1200 the historic Abbey and Nunnery were constructed.
Responsible for the spread of Christianity throughout Scotland, it remains a symbol of Scottish Christianity that many still pilgrimage today. There are four impressive high crosses remaining, all of which can be seen in the abbey museum. The oldest, St. Martin’s Cross, dates back to the 8th century. The isle has a spiritual atmosphere and is today maintained by the Iona Community.
Practical Info
To get to the Isle of Iona, you’ll need first to catch a ferry to the Isle of Mull. The abbey is all year-round, though summer and winter hours vary. Generally it is open to the public daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Entrance is £7.10.
Address: Isle of Iona PA76 6SQ, United Kingdom, Scotland
Hours: Daily 10am-4pm
Admission: £7.10
From $ 357
National Wallace Monument
With its dramatic perch atop Abbey Craig hill, the distinctive 67-meter-tall Gothic tower of the National Wallace Monument casts a striking silhouette, looming on the horizon just north of Stirling. Built in honor of Scottish hero Sir William Wallace, the fearless freedom fighter who led Scotland to victory during the 1297 Battle of Stirling Bridge, the grand monument is a worthy tribute and is now one of Scotland’s most visited monuments.
Designed by architect J. T. Rochead, the monument took eight years to build and was finally inaugurated in 1869. Today, more than 100,000 annual visitors climb the 246 steps to the top of the tower, from where the views span Stirling Castle, Stirling town and the surrounding countryside. Following the spiral stairwell, visitors pass through three floors of exhibitions – the Hall of Arms, focusing on the Battle of Stirling Bridge; the Hall of Heroes, where Wallace’s legendary battle sword takes center stage; and the Royal Chamber, which tells the history of the monument itself. There’s also a gift shop and café housed in the ground floor Keeper’s Lodge.
Practical Info
The National Wallace Monument is located at the top of Abbey Craig hill, around 4km north of Stirling, and is open daily from 10am to 5pm (summer) and 10:30am to 4pm (winter). Admission is £9.50 for adults and £5.90 for children.
Address: Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Rd, Stirling FK9 5LF, Scotland
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm (summer), 10.30am-4pm (winter)
Admission: Adults: £9.50, Children: £5.90
From $ 48
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Set among four hectares of Ayrshire countryside in the village of Alloway, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is a celebration of the life and work of Scotland’s most famous wordsmith.
The extensive museum contains a collection of over 5,000 artifacts relating to the Bard’s life, work and legacy. Visit Burns Cottage, where the poet was born, see the grand monument dedicated to him, and wander the commemorative gardens created in honor of the great “Rabbie” Burns. From the lawn, you can also see the famous Brig o’Doon, a 15th-century bridge immortalized in the Burns’ poem Tam o’ Shanter.
Practical Info
Entry to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum costs £9 for adults and includes entry to all exhibitions and the Burns Cottage. Tickets are valid for three days. The museum is based in Alloway, 40 minutes from Glasgow by car and also reachable by public transit (take the train to Ayr, then a local bus over to Alloway). There’s also a large self-service, on-site restaurant that serves hot breakfast and lunch.
Address: Murdoch's Lone, Alloway, Ayr, United Kingdom KA7 4PQ, Scotland
Admission: £9
From $ 45
Italian Chapel
When 550 Italian soldiers were captured in the scorching North African desert back in 1942, it must have caused them quite a shock to be sent in winter to the Scottish isle of Orkne. The POWs were sent here in order to build the “Churchill Barriers,” a series of causeways that would protect the British Grand Fleet in the Scapa Flow harbor. By 1943, the homesick workers requested a chapel where they could worship. What did they get? Two Nissen huts, which they were told to join end-to-end and labor over outside work hours.
What happened next is a beautiful symbol of peace, faith and the power of human ingenuity even in wartime. Local Orkney artists provided brushes and poster paints to decorate the huts; bully beef tins were converted into makeshift candle holders; wood scavenged from shipwrecks was used to create furniture; a car exhaust was covered in concrete to create a Baptismal font. Slowly but surely, those two steel sheds became the Roman Catholic chapel of the Italians’ dreams.
The main man behind the chapel’s decoration was POW Domenico Chiocchetti, who painted a false frontage so that it really looked like the Roman Catholic churches of home. He was so dedicated to the project that when everyone was sent home in 1944, he stayed on to finish the project.
In 1960, Chiocchetti returned to Orkney from his home in Moena, Italy, to assist with a restoration projection of the chapel. When he left three weeks later, he wrote a letter to the people of Orkney: "The chapel is yours, for you to love and preserve. I take with me to Italy the remembrance of your kindness and wonderful hospitality.”
Practical Info
Cared for by local volunteers, entry to the Italian Chapel is free. From Orkney’s main town of Kirkwall, the church is an eight-mile drive south.
Address: Lamb Holm, Orkney, Scotland
From $ 91
Isle of Skye
Scotland's largest island, the Isle of Skye is a pocket of wilderness jutting off the coast of the West Highlands. The area is a treat for nature lovers, with its dramatic sea cliffs, windswept valleys, and glittering lochs.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is part of the Hebrides Islands off Scotland’s west coast and can be reached by ferry from Mallaig or Glenelg, or by road, crossing the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh. Journey times by road are about five hours from Glasgow, 216 miles (348 km) away, or 2.5 hours from Inverness, 112 miles (180 km) away.
Natural Wonders on the Isle of Skye
The Basics
It's possible to visit the Isle of Skye on a full-day tour from Inverness, stopping at sights such as Fort William, Glencoe, and Eilean Donan Castle along the way. To experience everything the island has to offer, spend a night or two on the island—multi-day tours from Edinburgh or Glasgow are popular options that will give you plenty of time to visit Portree, the island's largest town; take in the views from the Old Man of Storr; and explore top attractions such as the Faerie Glen, Dunvegan castle, and Kilt Rock.
It's possible to visit the Isle of Skye on a full-day tour from Inverness, stopping at sights such as Fort William, Glencoe, and Eilean Donan Castle along the way. To experience everything the island has to offer, spend a night or two on the island—multi-day tours from Edinburgh or Glasgow are popular options that will give you plenty of time to visit Portree, the island's largest town; take in the views from the Old Man of Storr; and explore top attractions such as the Faerie Glen, Dunvegan castle, and Kilt Rock.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Prepare for unpredictable weather—it can get chilly along the coast even in summer and rain is always a possibility.
- Pack some insect repellent—the Scottish Highlands are notorious for their midges, an insect similar to mosquitos.
- Public transport is very limited on the Isle of Skye, so joining a tour is the best option for those without their own transport.
How to Get to the Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is part of the Hebrides Islands off Scotland’s west coast and can be reached by ferry from Mallaig or Glenelg, or by road, crossing the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh. Journey times by road are about five hours from Glasgow, 216 miles (348 km) away, or 2.5 hours from Inverness, 112 miles (180 km) away.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Skye Island is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is most favorable—although the midges are out in full force on warm evenings. The views can be spectacular in winter, especially if it’s been snowing, but access to some of the island's lookout points will be dependent on the weather.
The best time to visit Skye Island is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is most favorable—although the midges are out in full force on warm evenings. The views can be spectacular in winter, especially if it’s been snowing, but access to some of the island's lookout points will be dependent on the weather.
Natural Wonders on the Isle of Skye
The island's natural wonders beg to be photographed, and hikers and road-trippers will find plenty of opportunities to escape the beaten track. Stroll along the sea cliffs at Neist Point, cool off with a swim in the Fairy Pools, hike into the Cuillin Mountains, or explore the rugged landscapes of the Quiraing.
Address: Scotland
Admission: Free
From $ 169
Linlithgow Palace
Many of the Stuart royals, among them James I and Mary, Queen of Scots, did stints in this loch-side 15th-century pleasure palace. Gutted by fire in the 18th century, Linlithgow lies in ruin, though evidence of its grandeur—from the great hall to the intricately carved King’s Fountain—is still plentiful.
The Basics
Not far from Edinburgh, Linlithgow Palace makes for an easy day trip from the city. You can purchase an admission ticket in advance and make your own way to the site. Alternatively go as part of an organized day tour from Edinburgh, which typically passes by Linlithgow Palace en route to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and other destinations in the Scottish Highlands. Outlander-themed day tours usually include free time at the palace—which was used as a filming location for Wentworth Prison in the hit series—so fans can explore the historic building and the surrounding site. The palace is now managed by Historic Scotland and is free to enter for holders of the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The photogenic ruins of Linlithgow Palace are a must-see for royal enthusiasts and history buffs.
- Bring a camera to capture the views of Linlithgow Peel and Linlithgow Loch, both of which are visible from the top of Queen Margaret’s Bower.
- Much of Linlithgow is roofless. Bring rain gear to keep the weather at bay.
- The ticket office, shop, and courtyard (where the King’s Fountain is located), with level though somewhat uneven cobbled surfaces, are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Linlithgow Palace stands about 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Edinburgh city center, about a 35-minute drive. Without a car, you can get there via ScotRail train from Edinburgh Waverley station; trains depart regularly, and the journey takes just 20 minutes. From Linlithgow station, it is just a 5-minute walk to the palace.
When to Get There
The best time to visit is during summer, when milder weather makes it easier to explore Linlithgow Peel, the parkland surrounding the site. One of the best times to come is during the annual Spectacular Jousting event, which takes place in late June or early July, and features a medieval jousting tournament reenactment as well as music and demonstrations.
The King’s Fountain
For many visitors, the highlight of a visit to Linlithgow is the three-tiered King’s Fountain, located in the castle courtyard. Commissioned by James V in 1537, the magnificent fountain is covered in elaborate carvings. It’s said that when Bonnie Prince Charlie came to Linlithgow in 1745, the fountain flowed with wine. Nowadays, it flows—though only with water—on Sundays in July and August.
Address: Grange Knowe, Linlithgow EH49 7AL, Scotland
Hours: Open daily. Summer: 9:30am - 5:30pm, Winter: 10am - 4pm
Admission: Adults: £6
From $ 8
Inveraray Jail
Paying admission to get locked in a barren cell? At Inveraray Jail, it is worth it. The former prison turned museum manages to bridge the gap between tourist attraction and meaningful infotainment and delves into the darker parts of Scottish history. Small as it was, Inveraray was the seat of the Duke of Argyll and thus, the town came to be of central importance. The prison and the courthouse were opened in 1820 and prisoners from all over the area were brought here, not only men, but also women and children. Due to overcrowding, an additional building had to be constructed but the whole jail eventually shut down in 1889, when larger prisons in the bigger cities took over.
A visit to Inveraray Jail includes a tour through the different wings of the prison and even a trial lock-up in the cells and courtyard cage. Visitors can read stories about the inmates who were locked up in those cells, sit in the restored courtroom and listen to trials and meet the warden and prison guards, all dressed up in authentic period costumes. Coincidentally, Inveraray Jail is believed to be one of the most haunted buildings in Scotland and has many ghost sightings to report.
Practical Info
Inverary Jail is located in the small town of Inverary on the banks of Loch Fyne, about 90 kilometers north of Glasgow. The prison is open year round except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Opening hours in the summer months are from 9:30am to 6pm and from November till March from 10am to 5pm.
Address: Main Street, Inveraray, United Kingdom, Scotland
Hours: In the summer months, opening hours are from 9:30am to 6pm and from November till March from 10am to 5pm.
Admission: Adults £9.50, Children 5-16 £5.50, Children Under 5 are free
From $ 15
Jacobite Steam Train
Chugging through the misty lochs and sweeping glens of the Scottish Highlands, the Jacobite Steam Train (or Jacobite Express) is one of Britain's greatest train journeys, taking passengers on a nostalgic train ride between Fort William in the West Highlands and Mallaig on Scotland's west coast. The 84-mile (135-km) round-trip route passes Ben Nevis, Scotland's highest mountain, and the Glenfinnan viaduct, seen in the Harry Potter films when the Jacobite Steam Train was featured as the fictional Hogwarts Express.
The Basics
Most visitors ride the Jacobite Express as part of a full-day or multi-day tour from Edinburgh that also visits other Highlands sites such as Cairngorms National Park, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, and Loch Ness. The final station at Mallaig is also the starting point for ferries to the Isle of Skye, making it a popular add-on to overnight and multi-day island tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can ride the Jacobite Express one way between Fort William and Mallaig, or choose a round-trip ticket that allows for an hour and a half to explore Mallaig before the return journey.
- Advance booking is highly recommended—a very limited number of same-day tickets are available.
- Due to the vintage design of the train’s carriages, the Jacobite trains are not wheelchair accessible; mobility scooters and non-folding wheelchairs cannot be brought onboard.
- Wear layers suitable for changing weather—it can get chilly in the Highlands even in summer, and there is always a chance of rain.
How to Get There
Trains run from Fort William station, which is located in the Scottish Highlands about 134 miles (216 km) northwest of Edinburgh and 109 miles (175 km) north of Glasgow. Visitors without their own transport often visit as part of a tour from one of these cities.
When to Get There
The Jacobite Steam Train runs from May to October, with morning and afternoon departures. There are also limited winter departures around Christmas. If you don’t book your ticket in advance, arrive at least an hour before the departure time (earlier if on a weekend or during school holiday periods) to ensure a spot.
The Jacobite Steam Train for Harry Potter Fans
For fans of the Harry Potter movies, the Jacobite Steam Train will forever be known as the Hogwarts Express—movie buffs will recognize a number of filming locations along the train journey. Fans can book a seat in the Harry Potter compartment, where Harry and his friends sat on their way to Hogwarts, and enjoy spectacular views of the Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel as the train crosses the Glenfinnan viaduct, a memorable landscape from the films.
Address: Fort William, Scotland
Hours: May-October
Admission: Varies
From $ 272
Inveraray Castle
Current seat of the Clan Campbell and the hereditary seat of the dukes of Argyll since the 15th century, Inveraray Castle is considered one of Scotland’s most visually stunning stately homes. Built from 1745 to 1790 on the shores of Loch Fyne, the castle was designed by Roger Morris and boasts turrets and battlements that look right from the pages of a fairytale. The exterior was used to represent the fictional Duneagle Castle in the hit TV series Downton Abbey.
The castle interior has a well-maintained collection of eighteenth century French furnishings, art and a sizable armory hall displaying more than 1,300 weapons — dirks, muskets, pole-arms and axes. Tours through the castle recount the rise of the Clan Campbell. Visitors will also find a tearoom serving scones and other light snacks, as well as a gift shop selling Scottish souvenirs.
Practical Info
The gardens grounds of Inveraray Castle are quite large and offer several beautiful walks, but be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
Address: Inveraray, Argyll PA32 8XF, Scotland
Hours: 10am to 5:45pm
Admission: £9
From $ 52
St Andrews Golf Course
Laying claim to the world’s oldest golf course and boasting a history of the game that dates back to the 15th century, the coastal town of St Andrews has long been renowned as the ‘home of golf’ and it’s still Scotland’s premium destination for international golfers. The St Andrews Links – the local lingo for ‘golf courses’ – include 7 public courses, sited in dramatic settings along the coastal cliffs and preserved by the St Andrews Links Trust.
The most famous destination for golfers has to be the aptly named Old Course, the oldest and arguably most famous golf course in the world, which has hosted an incredible 28 Opens and boasts iconic features like the Swilcan Bridge and the Hell Bunker. It’s possible to play a round if you book in advance, but most visitors opt for a guided walking tour, following in the footsteps of golfing legends like Tiger Woods and Bobby Jones, and celebrity enthusiasts like Michael Douglas and Samuel L. Jackson.
There’s also the equally prestigious New Course, which actually dates back to 1895; the notoriously challenging Jubilee course; the Eden and the beginner-friendly 9-hole Balgove. Finally, the most recent additions include the Strathtyrum and the Castle Course, which opened up back in 2008.
Practical Info
The St Andrews Links are located along the coast of St Andrews in Fife, Scotland and are open to the public via advance booking all year-round. A range of package deals and walking tours are also available.
Address: St. Andrews, Scotland
From $ 69
House of Dun
The House of Dun is a Georgian house built in 18th century that is set among Victorian gardens and woodlands and adjacent to the Montrose Basin Nature Reserve. It is home to the Hutchison and Stirling collections of paintings and furniture, including 30 paintings by prominent Scottish artists. It was originally built for David Erskine, Lord Dun, from 1730 to 1743 and was home to generations of Erskines until 1947. It functioned as a hotel until 1985.
Guided tours of the House of Dun last just over an hour and talk about the construction of the home while pointing out a variety of ornate plasterwork and period equipment, such as a boot bath from the 1800s. The surrounding gardens are a must-see, as part of the landscape has been reconstructed to what it would have looked like in the 1740s.
Practical Info
The garden and estate surrounding the House of Dun are open daily from 9 a.m. to dusk. The house itself is open March 30-June 30 and September 1-30, Mondays to Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.; July 1 to August 31, Saturdays to Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and October 1 to November 29, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 2:30 p.m. Admission is 10.50 pounds.
Strathtay Buses serve the House of Dun and the Montrose train station is three miles away. It is a 45 minute drive from Aberdeen.
Address: Montrose, Angus, United Kingdom DD10 9LQ, Scotland
Hours: Garden & Estate Open Daily 9:30am-Dusk
Admission: Adult £10.50
From $ 14
Inverness Castle
Perched atop a hill by the River Ness, this Victorian-era red sandstone castle—built to replace the medieval fortress blown up by the Jacobites in 1746—is one of Inverness’ most prominent historic structures. Access to the castle, now occupied by government offices and law courts, is restricted but the grounds are open to the public.
The Basics
Inverness Castle has long played an important role in Scotland’s story, and is a must-visit for history buffs. Thanks to its elevated setting at the summit of Castle Hill, it also affords views over the river and Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. Most visitors explore independently, strolling around the grounds to see a Flora MacDonald statue and informational plaques detailing the site’s history. It’s a good place to get a primer on local historical information before venturing to nearby sites with Jacobite connections, such as the Culloden Battlefield or Urquhart Castle. Guided sightseeing tours of the city typically include a glimpse of the castle exterior, while hop-on hop-off bus tours also stop at the castle site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes to explore the castle grounds.
- Bring a camera, as the castle’s viewpoint overlooks the city and makes an excellent backdrop for vacation photos.
- The castle grounds are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Inverness Castle is located on the east side of the River Ness in Inverness city center. The castle is a 15-minute walk from Inverness rail station. Local buses stop at nearby Castle Street and on Castle Road.
When to Get There
The views from Inverness Castle are best on clear, sunny days. The grounds are busiest during warm summer weather, but even then, crowds are rare. The setting is romantic at sunset, when the sun’s soft rays hit the surface of the River Ness.
The History of Inverness Castle
Inverness Castle has long played a prominent role in the lore of Scotland, with a history that stretches all the way back to the 11th century. It features in both fiction and history books, having been the setting for part of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and the Jacobites razed the castle to the ground just weeks before their final defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
Address: 41 Castle St, Inverness IV2 3EG, Scotland
From $ 13
Loch Ness
As huge as Loch Ness is, its vast size is not the reason for its global fame, nor is it the magnificent surrounding scenery. The real reason visitors flock to this Scottish body of water is to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Rumors about Nessie have flown since an Irish monk first caught sight of something unusual swimming around the lake’s inky waters back in the seventh century. Today. travelers still cruise around the loch in hopes of catching sight of the mysterious aquatic monster.
The Basics
Loch Ness is most often visited during day trips from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen that incorporate other Highlands attractions such as Urquhart Castle, Stirling Castle, Caledonian Canal, Glencoe, Rannoch Moor, Cairngorms National Park, and even Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Shorter half-day trips, which typically include boat tours on the lake, typically depart from Inverness, while cruise-ship passengers can take shore excursions from Invergordon. Motorized boat trips are the most common way for visitors to scour Nessie’s lair, though it’s also possible to paddle a canoe or kayak out on the loch, or even take a self-guided cycling trip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- For background on the Nessie phenomenon, visit the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition at Drumnadrochit.
- Wear warm clothes, including a waterproof outer layer, as it can get cold out on the water.
- Day trips from Edinburgh and Glasgow generally last around 12 hours.
- The Loch Ness Centre is wheelchair accessible, however most boat trips are not.
- Bring along a camera so you can document any unusual lake activity!
How to Get There
Loch Ness stretches between Inverness and Fort Augustus, and is one of many such lakes located along the Great Glen. Tours from Inverness, Edinburgh, and Glasgow typically include round-trip transportation to cruise departure points such as Clansman Harbour, Dochgarroch, and Tomnahurich Bridge.
When to Get There
Boat trips around Loch Ness run year-round, though they are weather-dependent. During summer, the main A82 thoroughfare between Fort William and Inverness sees a lot of traffic and sightseeing cruises often sell out, so be sure to buy tickets in advance.
How to Maximize Your Chance of a Monster Sighting
For the best chances of glimpsing the fabled Loch Ness Monster, choose a boat that is fitted with special onboard sonar systems to ensure Nessie doesn’t swim by unnoticed. If you are worried the sound of a motor may disturb Nessie, opt for a canoe or kayak tour instead. And if you’d rather stay away from the water altogether, the high lakeside perch where the ruins of Urquhart Castle lie makes for a great viewing spot, with uninterrupted lake panoramas.
Address: Scotland
From $ 18
Laphroaig Distillery
With a history dating back to the early 1800s and a reputation for producing some of Scotland’s most famous malt whiskies, the Laphroaig distillery is a top choice for whisky lovers and one of several renowned distilleries on the Isle of Islay. Laphroaig’s biggest claim to fame is its distinctive single malt whisky, the only one in Scotland to bear the Royal Warrant of the Prince of Wales, and allegedly His Royal Highness’ favorite whisky.
Today, the Laphroaig distillery is open to visitors for tours and tastings, and whisky enthusiasts can learn about the traditional methods, visit the malting floors, mash house and stills, and sample a dram of whisky. There’s also a visitor center and shop, where visitors can learn the history of Laphroaig and purchase whiskies and souvenirs.
Practical Info
The Laphroaig Distillery is located in Port Ellen on the Isle of Islay in the Scottish Hebrides Islands. The distillery visitor center is open daily (weekdays only in January and February) from 9.45am 5pm and tours and tastings start from £6 at the time of writing.
Address: Port Ellen, Scotland
Hours: Open daily (weekdays only in January and February) from 9.45am 5pm
Admission: Starts at £6
From $ 526
Isle of Arran
The Isle of Arran sits off the western coast of Scotland. Since the line the divides the Scottish Highlands from the Lowlands runs through the island, its landscape reflects this, and the island is often referred to as Scotland in miniature. The northern part of the island is more rugged and mountainous and sparsely populated. The southern part of the island has more rolling hills, and the majority of the island's population reside here.
The island boasts many attractions for visitors. Castles, such as Brodick Castle and Lochranza Castle, are located on the Isle of Arran. There is also a heritage museum where you can learn some of the island's history. Some people come to climb Arran's highest peak, Goatfell, which stands at 2,866 feet, while others choose to hike the more leisurely Coastal Way. Nature lovers will enjoy the beautiful scenery on the island, including waterfalls, rocky coastlines, and wildlife. It's also a popular place for water activities such as sea kayaking.
Practical Info
The Isle of Arran can be reached by a short ferry from the Scottish mainland.
Address: Isle of Arran, Scotland
From $ 362