Visit Scotland - Where History Hides and Travel Adventures Call
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Travel Notes: Europe - United Kingdom - Scotland Travel Notes.
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Scotland Travel and Tourism on Travel Notes
Calling all nature lovers, history buffs, and whiskey aficionados. Scotland awaits the brave with its dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, and vibrant culture.
About Scotland
Scotland is a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture.
Whether you're interested in exploring historic castles, enjoying outdoor activities, or tasting traditional Scottish cuisine, there's something for everyone in Scotland.
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Mapping Scotland
Map of Scotland
Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom, occupying the northern third of the island of Great Britain.
Scotland comprises approximately 790 islands, including the Northern Isles and the Hebrides.
With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Scotland is a captivating destination that offers something for every traveller.
Whether you're exploring ancient castles, sampling whisky, or hiking in the Highlands, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful country.
Scotland Overview
Scotland shares a border with England to the south and is bounded by the North Sea to the east, the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west, and the North Channel and Irish Sea to the south-west.
Cities
Scotland is home to several vibrant cities, each with its own unique character.
Edinburgh, the capital, is famous for its historic and cultural attractions, including the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Glasgow, the largest city, is known for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural scene.
Culture
Scotland has a distinct cultural identity, with traditions such as Highland games, bagpipe music, and traditional Scottish dancing.
The country is also famous for its contributions to literature, including renowned authors such as Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Economy
Scotland has a diverse economy, with key industries including oil and gas, renewable energy, tourism, finance, and whisky production.
The country is known for its export of Scotch whisky, which is enjoyed worldwide.
Government
Scotland has its own devolved government, known as the Scottish Parliament, which has powers over areas such as education, health, and justice.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) has been the dominant political party in Scotland in recent years, advocating for Scottish independence.
History
Scotland has a rich and complex history dating back thousands of years. It was inhabited by various Celtic tribes, including the Picts and the Gaels.
In the early medieval period, it emerged as a unified kingdom known as Alba, eventually forming alliances with other Celtic nations and engaging in conflicts with the Kingdom of England.
Scenery
Scotland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, which include rugged mountains, rolling hills, verdant valleys, and picturesque lochs (lakes).
Notable natural landmarks include Loch Ness, Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in the British Isles), and the Isle of Skye.
Scottish Independence
Scotland held a referendum on independence from the United Kingdom in 2014, in which voters decided to remain part of the UK by a margin of 55% to 45%.
However, the issue of Scottish independence remains a topic of debate in the country's political landscape.
Visiting Scotland
Scotland is a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and a distinct identity within the United Kingdom.
Visiting Scotland offers a plenty of exciting experiences for travellers, from exploring historic castles and whisky distilleries to hiking in breathtaking landscapes and enjoying vibrant city life.
Scotland Highlights
Edinburgh
Scotland's capital city is a must-visit destination, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and lively cultural scene.
Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the historic Royal Mile, visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views of the city.
Glasgow
Scotland's largest city offers a vibrant arts and music scene, as well as impressive Victorian architecture and world-class museums.
Don't miss the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Glasgow Cathedral, and the bustling Merchant City district.
Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, with rugged mountains, pristine lochs, and vast expanses of wilderness.
Take a road trip along the North Coast 500 route, visit the picturesque Isle of Skye, and explore the Cairngorms National Park for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.
Loch Ness
Visit the legendary Loch Ness and keep an eye out for the elusive Nessie.
Explore the surrounding area, including the ruins of Urquhart Castle, and enjoy boat cruises or kayak trips on the loch.
Outdoor Activities
Scotland offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, golfing, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Whether you're exploring the rugged coastline, climbing Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet), or kayaking on remote lochs, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast in Scotland.
Scottish Islands
Scotland is home to numerous picturesque islands, each with its own unique charm.
Explore the Outer Hebrides for stunning beaches and ancient standing stones, visit Orkney for its Neolithic archaeological sites, or head to the Shetland Islands for birdwatching and coastal walks.
Stirling
Discover the historic city of Stirling, known for its medieval castle and the Battle of Stirling Bridge; where William Wallace famously defeated the English in 1297.
Visit the Wallace Monument for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Whisky Distilleries
Scotland is famous for its whisky, and visiting a distillery is a quintessential Scottish experience.
Explore the Speyside region, home to numerous distilleries including Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, and Macallan, or visit the island of Islay for its peaty single malts such as Laphroaig and Ardbeg.
Scotland Travel and Tourism
Historic Scotland:
Scotland's built heritage is a rich tapestry which illuminates the nation's history from
the earliest times. The thread reaches from prehistoric standing stones to medieval
castles and formal great gardens through to Georgian houses, Victorian factories and
Second World War defences.
Isle of Skye:
The official web site for the communities of the Isle of Skye, Lochalsh, and Raasay in
north west Scotland.
Kids Go Free -
ScotRail:
With a ScotRail Kids Go Free ticket not only can two kids travel free off-peak with each
adult, you also get one free entry to Scotland's best attractions.
Kintyre Peninsula:
Kintyre is on the extreme west coast of Scotland, joined to the mainland by a narrow
isthmus, at Tarbert, with all the characteristics of island living without the hassle and
expense of ferry crossings (although you can cross by ferry as well).
Lang Atholl Experience:
Scotland's luxury destination management
company creating tour packages to take your
breath away.
Scottish Heartlands:
Argyll, the Isles, Loch Lomond, Stirling and Trossachs. Here is the birthplace of
Scotland, the cradle of its Christianity and nationhood and the focal point of much of its
colourful history.
Scottish Highlands:
These pages by the Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board, are intended to give you a taste
of the beauty and tranquillity of The Highlands.
Scottish Web:
Scotland and the Scottish Highlands have many secrets. Little known places, castles,
historical events and famous people are what defines a large part of highland culture and
Scottish Web aims to bring you articles of interest to help you appreciate this.
Scotland Info:
A comprehensive online guide to the land north of Hadrian's Wall, with special features on
Scottish castles, travel tips and travel stories to help you appreciate Scotland more.
Secret Scotland:
Michael Peddie offers detailed tour
itineraries and personal online support for
planning and booking self-drive tours of
Scotland. Customers are given a 10% discount
code for car hire with
Arnold
Clark Rental.
The Isle of Islay:
The Isle of Islay is the most southerly of the Hebridean islands at the west coast of
Scotland. Pictures, information, links and tips from, Armin Grewe, a frequent visitor to
Islay.
The Western Isles
The Western Isles, also known as the Hebrides, are made up of the islands of Lewis, Harris, Scalpay, Berneray, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, Barra, Eriskay, Vatersay, Taransay and St Kilda.
Visit Hebrides:
Standing majestically at the north-west edge of Europe, this 150 mile-long island chain of
beaches, culture, wildlife and adventure is a haven for outdoor activities, and a great
place to unwind.
Visit Scotland:
Provides information on holiday accommodation, outdoor activities and places to visit in
Scotland.
Visit Shetland:
Experience the extraordinary natural beauty and individual identity of the Shetland
Islands.
West Highland Explorer:
An extensive area of mountains, moorland, islands, and sea. From Shetland Islands in the
north to Mull of Kintyre in the south and all points westward, this region is home to
several distinctly different cultures.
Orkney Islands
When visiting the Orkney islands, you can make more of your holiday time and save a bit of money on accommodation by booking an overnight cabin on the Northlink ferry from Stromness to Scrabster.
You can book yourselves a cabin on the Northlink Ferry and board the ferry between 21:30 and 23:30 on the night before you sail.
The ferry leaves Stromness at 06:30 in the morning and you can get breakfast on the ship before arriving in Scrabster at 08:00.
Visit Orkney:
Orkney Tourist Board's official visitors' guide to the Orkney islands -- an archipelago of
some 70 islands, with excellent scheduled air and ferry services between them.
Aberdeen
Aberdeen has 30 golf courses within half an hour's drive from the city centre. Aberdeen is also on the Castles trail and the famous Malt Whiskey trail.
Aberdeen Hotels
Association:
Detailed information on 27 Aberdeenshire hotels; with contact details, location maps and
links to the relevant hotel websites.
Aberdeen and Grampian:
Scotland’s Castle and Whisky Country is more than a little bit special; with miles of
unspoiled coastline, some of the world’s finest malt whisky and more castles than any
other part of the United Kingdom.
The Web Cafe:
Guide to eating, drinking and partying in the Aberdeen area.
Edinburgh
Map of Edinburgh
Edinburgh:
Town and Country: by Dan Bailey
Fill up on orgies of urban entertainment, then cleanse body and spirit with a walk in the
hills or a stiff sea breeze. Just as nothing beats the refreshment of a hot steam bath and
icy plunge pool, harnessing the contrasting forces of nature and culture will leave you
feeling thoroughly recharged.
Edinburgh and Lothians Tourist
Board:
This site will help you get to grips with the wealth of opportunities available both in
the city of Edinburgh and amongst the beautiful coast and countryside that surrounds it.
Edinburgh Castle:
The most famous of Scottish castles. In addition to guided tours provided by the castle
stewards, there is an audio guide tour available in six languages. Parking is restricted
from June to October for the Edinburgh Military
Tattoo.
Edinburgh Festivals:
Official online listings for every Edinburgh festival.
Edinburgh Film Festival:
Edinburgh is the UK’s leading Film Festival and has celebrated cinema in its infinite
variety for over half a century.
Edinburgh Fringe:
Whilst still remaining true to its founding principle of open-access for all performers,
the Fringe has come a long way since its organisational beginnings -- in a disused pub
with a leaky roof, just off the Royal Mile.
Edinburgh Guide:
Coverage of Edinburgh arts and entertainment with extensive coverage of
Edinburgh's festivals.
Edinburgh's Hogmanay:
Includes an extensive archive of broadcast quality video footage of Edinburgh during the
last 15 years.
Edinburgh International Festival:
The Edinburgh International Festival is over fifty years old and has earned its reputation
as one of the world's greatest celebrations of the arts.
Edinburgh Old Town:
Unlike most city High Streets where the same national chains of shops, bars and
restaurants can be seen whichever town you're in, Edinburgh's Old Town is rich in
specialist shops, small restaurants and intimate little bars. Whether it's shopping,
hotels, bars, cafes, restaurants or just memorable sights, you'll find a feast of
attractions on your visit to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Zoo:
Edinburgh Zoo opened in 1913, in leafy hillside parkland just ten minutes from the centre
of Edinburgh. Open every day of the year, including Christmas Day, from 9.00am to 6.00pm
April-September, 5.00pm October and March, and 4.30pm from November to February.
National
Gallery of Scotland:
The National Gallery of Scotland, oldest of the four Galleries, is situated in the heart
of Edinburgh on The Mound, between the ancient Old Town and the Georgian New Town. It is
home to Scotland's greatest collection of European paintings and sculpture from the
Renaissance to Post-Impressionism, and is one of the very finest galleries of its size in
the world.
Our Dynamic Earth:
Situated in the heart of Edinburgh at the foot of Arthur's Seat, adjacent to the Palace of
Holyroodhouse and the site of the new Scottish Parliament.
Scottish
National Gallery of Modern Art:
Set in extensive parkland, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art lies to the west of
Edinburgh's City Centre, on Belford Road. The Gallery first opened in 1960 at Inverleith
House in the Royal Botanic Garden and moved to its present site in 1984.
Scottish
National Portrait Gallery:
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is situated in the heart of the Edinburgh New Town
at the east end of Queen Street. It provides a unique visual history of Scotland, told
through portraits of the figures who shaped it: royals and rebels, poets and philosophers,
heroes and villains.
Scottish
Parliament:
Members of the public can sit in the public galleries of the Chamber and watch sessions of
Parliament. The main debates usually take place on a Wednesday afternoon and on Thursday,
both morning and afternoon. There are a number of seats available to book in advance.
Others are available on a first come, first served basis.
The
Dean Gallery:
Situated opposite the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, the Dean Gallery displays
Edinburgh's world-class holdings of Dada and Surrealist art, and work by Sir Eduardo
Paolozzi.
The Fruitmarket Gallery:
Situated in one of the world's most beautiful cities, Edinburgh's Fruitmarket Gallery is
an acclaimed international art space showing a programme of exciting, thought-provoking
exhibitions of Scottish, British and international contemporary art. The gallery is
complemented by an ambient, street-level glass fronted cafe and innovative bookshop.
The
Palace of Holyroodhouse:
Founded as a monastery in 1128, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is The Queen's official
residence in Scotland. Situated at the end of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse
is closely associated with Scotland's turbulent past; including Mary, Queen of Scots - who
lived here between 1561 and 1567.
Near Edinburgh
North Berwick:
A picturesque town situated on the shores of the Firth of Forth, just 35 minutes by train
from Edinburgh, close to the A1 motorway, and perfectly placed to explore the links golf
courses in East Lothian.
Peebles:
A small country town in the Scottish Borders situated 23 miles south of Edinburgh and
about 40 miles from Glasgow. This quiet south eastern corner of Scotland, with its lower
than average rainfall, clean air and bright sunshine attracts visitors year round.
Inverness
Inverness:
The City in the Highlands.
Scotland Tips
Salmon Season
The salmon season runs from 11th February to 7th October.
When visiting Scotland don't try to do it all in one day. Although it's a small country, the highlands and islands roads are not built for speed and distances can be deceptive. It is better to take your time and be selective in what you wish to see and enjoy it at a more leisurely pace. Your motto should be: 'See less, enjoy more'.
Make sure to visit the Hill House in Helensburgh (near Glasgow). It's one of the best examples of Charles Rennie Mackintosh's work.
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Getting To (and Around) Scotland
Scotland by Air
Eastern Airways:
Connecting Aberdeen, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Humberside, Manchester, Norwich, Teesside
and Wick.
Flies from Luton to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Flights from Edinburgh and
Glasgow also go to Amsterdam and Belfast.
Loganair:
Scotland’s airline provides life-line services to remote island communities and
serves the needs of the business traveller with frequent flights between Scotland’s
cities and towns.
Cheap flights from London Stansted to Glasgow.
Highlands and Islands Airports:
Operates ten airports throughout the Highlands and Islands of Scotland; providing vital
social, business and welfare links to the people who live there.
Scot Airways:
Flights from London City Airport to Edinburgh and Dundee.
Scotland by Rail
ScotRail:
Provides around 95% of all train services within Scotland as well as the Anglo-Scottish
overnight Caledonian Sleepers linking Fort William, Aberdeen, Inverness, Glasgow and
Edinburgh with the heart of London.
Scotland by Road
Scottish Citylink Coaches:
Fast and frequent services to over 200 towns and cities across Scotland.
Scotland by Sea
CalMac Scottish Island Ferries:
Explore the magical islands and peninsulas of Scotland's Atlantic coast; a world away, yet
so easy to get to.
NorthLink Ferries:
Ferry from Aberdeen to the Islands of Orkney and Shetland. Also sails between
Scrabster and Stromness.
Scotland Accommodation
Clava Lodge:
Relax in the splendour of the Highlands of Scotland, 7 miles from Inverness, in one of
Clava Lodge's comfortable apartments, chalets or cottages. Go monster hunting, follow the
whisky trail, visit the Clava Cairns or do a bit of salmon fishing.
Birchbrae Luxury Self
Catering Lodges: (Fort William)
Seven luxury self catering Scandinavian-style lodges set in a peaceful and secluded
woodland in the Highlands of Scotland. Birchbrae is 8 miles south of Fort William and sits
in a woodland clearing up of Forest track; off the A82. The Corran Ferry is some 500
metres away, which crosses Loch Linnhe to the Ardnamurchan peninsula.
Kessock Highland Lodges:
Set amidst lush rolling meadowland in the wild heart of Highland
Scotland. Secluded and yet superbly located for exploring, this
luxurious retreat offers a truly individual flavour of Scotland
surrounded by some of its most spectacular mountain scenery.
Glasgow
Glasgow
International Airport Hotels:
Cosmopolitan Hotels operate two 3 star hotels close to Glasgow's International Airport and
within perfect commuting distance of Scotland's largest city, Glasgow.
Erskine Bridge Hotel & Spa:
Stunning scenery within 18 acres of parkland, with panoramic views of the Kilpatrick
Hills, the River Clyde and the Erskine Bridge.
The
Normandy Hotel:
Set in the heart of Renfrewshire, with extensive conference, events and banqueting
facilities for up to 600 people.
Self Catering
Bonawe House:
An eighteenth century Scottish country house set in its own secluded grounds, surrounded
by mature beech trees and gardens; with views over Loch Etive. Offers six self-catering
holiday cottages in Taynuilt, near Oban.
Reserve Apartments:
Self-catering accommodation in
Edinburgh
and Glasgow with online booking.
Scotland Tours
Adventure in Scotland:
Guide to Scotland's best adventure sports, companies and events.
Ayrshire Golf Tours:
Concentrate on your desire to play golf in
Scotland and leave the minor details like
transportation, accommodation, golf tee
times, and complimentary whisky tastings to
the Scottish golf tour experts.
Romantic Scotland:
The ideal setting for a wedding, honeymoon or getaway.
Scotland Made Easy:
Assists in itinerary planning and booking accommodation for stress-free self-drive tours
of Scotland.
Scottish Dream Tours:
Specialises in small group tours to Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England featuring
castles, gardens, historic sites, tea-rooms and pubs.
Scotland Travel Guides
Scotland Travel Guides - Scotland Maps.
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