Perched among volcanic hills, Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is dominated by its iconic castle and a skyline of spires, towers, and domes. The city is an architectural treasure trove, featuring elegant Georgian terraces and late medieval monuments that captivate even the most discerning enthusiasts. Visitors can wander the famed Royal Mile, discover hidden gems like Dunbar’s Close Garden, or explore the playful optical illusions of the Camera Obscura. Whisky lovers will delight in the Scotch Whisky Experience, while theatres, museums, lively pubs, and restaurants bring the city to life. For breathtaking panoramas, Calton Hill offers a sweeping view of historic streets and distant hills. Edinburgh’s blend of history, culture, and vibrant energy makes it a must-visit destination for every traveller.
Idyllically located on the banks of the mighty River Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city is continually in flux. Glasgow has been in the midst of a renaissance with its chic shopping centres, the striking architecture of the new multi-million-pound Riverside Museum of Transport, as well as its beautifully preserved mix of historical Victorian, Georgian, Venetian, and Art Deco architecture. Must-sees include the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the immaculately kept grounds of the Pollok Estate Country Park. Glasgow is well known for its top-notch restaurants, lively nightlife, its popular and diverse live music and comedy scene as well as its many authentic traditional pubs. This flourishing Scottish city features a wonderful cosmopolitan atmosphere yet retains a charming down to earth, genuine feel.
Perth is an attractive city on the banks of the River Tay in east-central Scotland, commonly referred to as ‘the Fair City’, and perfect for exploring on foot. During walking tours of the city you will take in sights such as St. Ninian’s Cathedral; St. John’s Kirk, which dates back to 1159; the Perth Museum and Art Gallery, with its fine collection of ancient Pictish Stones; and the impressive Fergusson Gallery. Located just outside of the city is the magnificent Scone Palace, the historic crowning place of 42 Scottish kings. A visit to the 16th-century Elcho Castle just outside of Perth is also highly recommended. Active types will enjoy the cycling and hiking trails up Kinnoull Hill, whose summit offers fantastic views of the city and its surrounds.
Few countries can boast a traditional culture as distinctive as Scotland. From haggis and whiskey to men in kilts playing the bagpipes, this proud country’s local customs are recognised throughout the world. Scotland is a land of hilltop castles, formidable fortresses, and mist-cloaked glens. With some of Western Europe’s largest areas of wilderness in their backyard, the Scots are blessed with a host of outdoor pursuits including hiking and mountain-biking in the rugged terrain of the Northern Highlands, whale and dolphin watching off the coast of Mull or sea-kayaking among the seal-haunted isles of the Outer Hebrides. With all this wilderness on offer alongside some of Britain’s most fascinating cities, it is no wonder that the Scots are so fiercely passionate about their remarkable country and its impressive heritage.
As previously described
As previously described
As previously described
As previously described
