5 Great Places to Visit in Scotland

With so much to see and do in Scotland, it can be difficult to narrow down the list of places and attractions that you and your family want to visit. This list covers various attractions in Scotland so no matter where you stay, there should be a great day out just a stones throw away.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is the most famous of the castles in Scotland. It dominates the Edinburgh skyline and is built on a dormant volcano, nicknamed Castle Rock. At Edinburgh Castle you can wander through the stunning Great Hall, marvel at St Margaret’s Chapel the oldest building in Scotland, view the many rooms of the Royal Palace and take a guided tour for an in depth history lesson. There are also museums, exhibitions and memorials to visit and activities for all ages to partake in. Edinburgh castle is a fun packed day out and is not to be missed.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is Britain’s largest National Park and spans much of the area between Aberdeen and Inverness. Here there is an unrivalled range of outdoor activities and so much to see and do. Picturesque towns such as Ballater, Aviemore and Glenmore provide many photo opportunities and the wide range of wildlife here makes these places all the more stunning. You can visit reindeer and watch them in their natural habitat, then take a steam train back down through the mountains. There are a wide range of walks for the outdoor adventurers, as well as cosy tea shops, pubs and restaurants for those wanting a more relaxing break.

Loch Ness, Inverness

Loch Ness is one of the most famous locations in Scotland, mainly for the legend of the Loch Ness Monster. This alone makes this day out an exciting one for the kids! Apart from monster-spotting there is much to do at Loch Ness and the Great Glen. There are many walks, from short paths to “The Trail of the Seven Lochs” which is 50 miles of pathways with stunning views and varied terrain. There’s also horse riding, fishing and golfing opportunities to keep the whole family entertained. If the weather were to turn, there are indoor activities too such as the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition Experience and the Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre.

Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is an attraction in itself. The picturesque island is situated off the west coast of mainland Scotland and can be reached easily by ferry or the Skye bridge. Each area of Skye has its own flavour and features. Many families who visit enjoy renting a bicycle and exploring the mountain scenery. Although driving is quicker if you plan to see lots of the island, you may not be able to appreciate the wildlife and many species of birds who inhabit the Isle of Skye this way.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is one of the largest castles in Scotland and is surrounded majestically on three sides by steep cliffs. The castle features fascinating historical displays, a recreation of the 16th century kitchens with interactionary exhibits, Regimental Museum and the restored medieval Great Hall. Stirling Castle is also home to the Royal Palace which has been called the finest Renaissance building in Scotland. Arguably the grandest of all Scotland’s castles and one of the most popular attractions in the country, a visit to Stirling Castle cannot be missed.