Choose from 155 Fun Things to Do in Scotland
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Edinburgh Cruise Port
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and a proudly historic city of kings and queens, kilts and military tattoos (of the musical kind). Rising darkly proud above the city is Edinburgh Castle, perched high on black volcanic rock. The Old Town’s city buildings march down from the castle along the Royal Mile to the royal palace at the other end of the road, Holyroodhouse - still one of the Queen’s official residences and full of history. Nearby is the modern and controversial Scottish Parliament building.
Wrapped around the base of the castle hill is the New Town - actually dating from the 18th century, which shows how old the Old Town must be - including botanic gardens, museums and art galleries, shopping and residential areas and the city’s main railway station, Waverley. Edinburgh is both visually spectacular and culturally dynamic, home of the annual Edinburgh Festival, where many famous entertainers make their start.
How to Get to Edinburgh
Cruise ships dock in Leith, not too far from the city center. You can catch a taxi, shuttle or local bus for a ten minute ride to the Old Town, or walk for about half an hour. In Leith is also permanently moored the now-decommissioned Royal Yacht Britannia, which makes for a fascinating tour.
One Day in Edinburgh
If you only have one day in Edinburgh you must see the castle. It is not huge but it is full of low doorways into small rooms which burst with history. And the views are wonderful. From here wander down Royal Mile, which changes names along the way: Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street and Canongate.
Royal Mile has now become a bit of a tourist strip filled with shops selling tartan, but look beyond this to the wonderful buildings filled with history and the great small museums such as Camera Obscura and the Scottish Storytelling Centre in John Knox House (which dates from 1470).
At the bottom of the road is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the wonderful current royal palace, and nearby Arthurs Seat rises high in the parklands and is a favourite walk for locals and tourists alike. In the New Town the Scottish Portrait Gallery has recently reopened and the Scottish National Gallery has been renovated to put even more of their wide collection on display. The Royal Scottish Academy shows Scotland’s own great artists and designers.
A bit of a must-do in Scotland is to sample the local whiskies of which they are so rightly proud. And if you’re brave, taste some haggis, the national dish. If you are a golfer, head to nearby St Andrews where golf began. And if you’ve seen Edinburgh before, Glasgow is only 45 minutes away by train.
Port Information
The language is English, although it is spoken with a distinctive Scottish lilt and some puzzling Scottish turns of phrase. The currency is the British pound - if you receive any Scottish pounds they are quite legal even though they look different to the English pounds commonly used across Britain. ATMs are easy to find.
Wrapped around the base of the castle hill is the New Town - actually dating from the 18th century, which shows how old the Old Town must be - including botanic gardens, museums and art galleries, shopping and residential areas and the city’s main railway station, Waverley. Edinburgh is both visually spectacular and culturally dynamic, home of the annual Edinburgh Festival, where many famous entertainers make their start.
How to Get to Edinburgh
Cruise ships dock in Leith, not too far from the city center. You can catch a taxi, shuttle or local bus for a ten minute ride to the Old Town, or walk for about half an hour. In Leith is also permanently moored the now-decommissioned Royal Yacht Britannia, which makes for a fascinating tour.
One Day in Edinburgh
If you only have one day in Edinburgh you must see the castle. It is not huge but it is full of low doorways into small rooms which burst with history. And the views are wonderful. From here wander down Royal Mile, which changes names along the way: Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street and Canongate.
Royal Mile has now become a bit of a tourist strip filled with shops selling tartan, but look beyond this to the wonderful buildings filled with history and the great small museums such as Camera Obscura and the Scottish Storytelling Centre in John Knox House (which dates from 1470).
At the bottom of the road is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the wonderful current royal palace, and nearby Arthurs Seat rises high in the parklands and is a favourite walk for locals and tourists alike. In the New Town the Scottish Portrait Gallery has recently reopened and the Scottish National Gallery has been renovated to put even more of their wide collection on display. The Royal Scottish Academy shows Scotland’s own great artists and designers.
A bit of a must-do in Scotland is to sample the local whiskies of which they are so rightly proud. And if you’re brave, taste some haggis, the national dish. If you are a golfer, head to nearby St Andrews where golf began. And if you’ve seen Edinburgh before, Glasgow is only 45 minutes away by train.
Port Information
The language is English, although it is spoken with a distinctive Scottish lilt and some puzzling Scottish turns of phrase. The currency is the British pound - if you receive any Scottish pounds they are quite legal even though they look different to the English pounds commonly used across Britain. ATMs are easy to find.
Address: Imperial House, Albert Dock, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 7DN, Scotland
From $ 68
Crathie Church
With a history dating back to the sixth century and the present building built by Queen Victoria in the late 19th century, Crathie Church has a long history of royal significance. Today, the small parish church retains its claim to fame, with the Queen and Royal Family attending services there while staying at the nearby royal residence, Balmoral Castle.
The royal connection is notable throughout the church – not only did Queen Victoria lay the first stone back in 1893, but her servant John Brown is buried in the churchyard, the white marble communion table is dedicated to Edward VII and a bible decorated with the Royal Coat of Arms is on display.
Practical Info
Crathie Church is located in Crathie Kirk village in the Cairngorms National Park.
Address: Crathie, Scotland
From $ 65
Deanston Distillery
Housed in a converted 18th-century Cotton Mill on the banks of the River Teith, the Deanston Distillery boasts a scenic location for whisky tasting and thanks to its close proximity to Stirling Castle, it’s fast become a popular destination for whisky enthusiasts. Established in 1966, the distillery has earned a reputation for its use of hydro-energy and lays claim to the title of Scotland’s only self-sufficient distillery, with electricity generated on-site.
Visitors can enjoy a range of tours at the Deanston Distillery, learning about the history of the distillery; taking a peek at the copper stills, maturation warehouse and open mash tun; or strolling the 18th-century ‘workers’ village located nearby. All tours include the chance to taste Deanston’s renowned single malt Scotch whisky, but there are also opportunities to indulge in an expert-led whisky or whisky and chocolate tastings in the Deanston Tasting Room.
Practical Info
The Deanston Distillery is located in Doune, approximately 13km (8 miles) northwest of Stirling, and is open daily from 10am-5pm. Tours of the distillery cost £8 and run hourly.
Address: Doune FK16 6AG, Scotland
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Tours: £8
From $ 51
Culross
With its cobbled streets, narrow wynds, and old tollbooth on the shores of the Firth of Forth, Culross (pronounced Koo-ross) is said to be best-preserved 17th-century town in Scotland. Seventeen miles northwest of Edinburgh, Culross once thrived on the trade of coal and salt, but when the coal dried up, so did the prosperity of the town, and so the original merchant’s houses were never demolished or tweaked into Victorian builds.
From the 1930s onwards, the National Trust for Scotland has purchased 20 of the town’s buildings in order to preserve them, and on a visit to the seaside town you can visit Culross Palace, the Study, and the Townhouse through the trust. A walk around the town will take you past whitewashed buildings and stone cottages leading to the abbey, founded by the Cistercians in 1217.
Practical Info
The Palace, Study, and Townhouse buildings are open from April 1 through October 31. Entry costs £10.50 for adults, and one ticket gains access to all areas.
Address: Dunfermline, Fife, United Kingdom, Scotland
Admission: £10.50 for adults
From $ 14
Duncansby Head
Duncansby Head, located in northern Scotland, is the northernmost point on the British mainland. It is a set of dramatic sandstone cliffs that overlook the sea. Some of the cliffs reach up to 200 feet high. Exploring the area along the coastal pathway will give you a great opportunity to see some of the region's unique seabirds and other wildlife. Some of the birds you might see include guillemot, kittiwakes, and puffins, depending on the time of year.
From Duncansby Head, visitors will have a view of the Duncansby Stacks, a group of large jagged sea rocks, and Thirle Door, a rocky arch. Sometimes it is also possible to catch a glimpse of some of the sea life here, including seals, dolphins, minke and killer whales. The nearby village of John O'Groats is the northernmost settlement on the mainland of Britain, and the Duncansby Head Lighthouse marks the northernmost point.
Practical Info
Duncansby Head is located near John O'Groats about 119 miles north of Inverness.
Address: John O'Groats, Scotland
From $ 18
Cardhu Distillery
Tucked into the peaty, water-drenched landscape of Speyside, Scotland’s famous whisky region, Cardhu Distillery opened in 1811 and was the brainchild of whisky smuggler John Cumming and his wife Helen, one of the country’s very few female distillers. They operated illicitly for several years and it is thought the distillery was built on this exposed spot on Mannoch Hill so approaching strangers would be spotted; it is also close to crystal spring waters that feed into the River Spey. One of the highlights of the celebrated self-drive Malt Whisky Trail, the current distillery was built in 1884; nine years later the company was sold to Johnnie Walker and to this day their blended whiskies are produced using Cardhu (the name means ‘black rock’ in Gaelic) malts. Housed in a stone complex with distinctive pagoda-shaped roofs, and updated in the 1970s when more copper stills were introduced, Cardhu is famous for its range of award-winning single malts with a smooth taste attributed to years of maturing in oak casks. A visitor center was added in 1988, with fine views across to Ben Rinnes.
As well as guided tours, Cardhu Distillery is open for tastings of various single malts and Johnnie Walker blended whiskies, all of which can be bought in the gift shop.
Practical Info
Knockando, Aberlour, Banffshire AB38 7RY. Open Jan–Mar,
Oct–Dec Mon–Fri 10am–3pm; Apr Mon–Fri 10am–5pm; May Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; Jun–Sept Mon–Thur, Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 11am–4pm. Tour prices start at £5. Guided tours should be booked in advance; there are none in October due to annual maintenance although the shop remains open. Best accessed by car; the journey takes 1.5 hours from Inverness along the A96 and the A941.
Address: Knockando, Inverness, Banffshire AB38 7RY, Scotland
Hours: Jan–Mar, Oct–Dec Mon–Fri 10am–3pm; Apr Mon–Fri 10am–5pm;
May Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; Jun–Sept Mon–Thur, Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 11am–4pm
Admission: Tour prices start at £5
From $ 48
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Founded in 1835, Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions is one of Edinburgh’s oldest tourist attractions. Located on the top floor, the Camera Obscura provides real-time views of the city, while the five floors below it are crammed with puzzles, optical illusions, and interactive exhibits that fool the eye and the mind.
The Basics
Many tourists taking sightseeing tours along the Royal Mile, a prominent thoroughfare that cuts through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, will see the historic 19th-century Camera Obscura building. To access the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, you’ll have to purchase tickets at the door on the day of your visit. World of Illusions exhibits include the Mirror Maze and the Vortex Tunnel. Tickets also provide access to the 15-minute Camera Obscura show, and the rooftop terrace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets are valid for the whole day so if you can, leave to get lunch or a coffee and return after.
- Bring your phone or camera to capture wacky, perspective-warping images.
- Allow around two hours to explore.
- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is not wheelchair accessible.
- Camera Obscura show times are allocated at the time of ticket purchase.
How to Get There
Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions is situated at the west end of Royal Mile near Edinburgh Castle. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley train station. Local buses stop at the nearby George IV Bridge, which is just a 3-minute walk away, while sightseeing buses stop on the Royal Mile, just a 1-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The best time of the year to come is during summer, when clear skies offer the best rooftop views. Note that Camera Obscura shows only run when there is sufficient light, so it’s important to come early, especially during short winter days. The attraction is also at its quietest in early morning.
History of the Camera Obscura
The 19th-century Camera Obscura, which has been used since 1853, was the height of technology back in Victorian times. Despite the advent of virtual reality, this device still manages to enthrall 21st-century visitors. The pinhole camera uses lenses and mirrors to cast real-time images of Scotland’s capital onto a table in a darkened chamber.
Address: 549 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND, Scotland
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle has loomed over Scotland’s capital city for more than 1,000 years. Steeped in history, the former royal residence is now a museum, featuring detailed exhibits and period artifacts that illuminate the castle’s storied past.
The Basics
Behind the fortress walls you’ll find cobbled promenades, winding stone steps, ancient chapels, dark dungeons, and vast halls. See the room where the macabre 15th-century Black Dinner took place, admire the glittering Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, take a photo with the massive Mons Meg cannon, see the Great Hall, visit the room where Queen Mary gave birth to King James IV, and find mysterious graffiti left behind by 18th- and 19th-century prisoners of war.
Many Edinburgh city tours include a visit to the castle, whether you want to explore by private mini-bus, vintage taxicab, or on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Save time with a skip-the-line walking tour of Edinburgh Castle, or delve into the history of this iconic fortress on a private tour. It’s also possible to visit the castle on a day trip from London.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Edinburgh Castle is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors to the city.
- It’s possible to spend anywhere from two hours to a full day exploring the castle.
- Visitors are subject to bag searches, and storage is not available for large personal items such as backpacks, luggage, and strollers.
- Photographs are not allowed inside the Scottish National War Memorial or the Scottish Crown Jewel exhibit.
- Parts of the castle may not be accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Edinburgh Castle is located atop a hill in the Old Town. Parking is difficult in this part of Edinburgh, so the easiest way to get there is on foot, by public transport, or on a guided tour. If walking, head west on the Royal Mile—a high street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Queen’s present-day residence. The city’s primary train and bus terminal (Edinburgh Waverley) is also within walking distance of the castle.
When to Get There
The castle is open year-round and is busiest in summer. Arrive early to avoid crowds and plan to visit the Crown Jewels first, as lines form quickly and can take over an hour to get through. Afternoon visitors can enjoy the daily firing of the “one-o’clock gun,” while August travelers can sometimes see the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performing just outside the castle walls.
Best Photo Spots in Edinburgh Castle
The castle’s sweeping Old Town city views are no coincidence—its hilltop position was carefully chosen to protect the city. For great views and equally great photographs, head to the windows near the row of cannons along Half Moon Battery, the grated overlooks across from the military prison, or St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving part of the castle.
Address: Castle Hill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, Scotland
Hours: Open daily. Summer: 9:30am - 6pm, Winter: 9:30am - 5pm. Closed Dec 25 & 26
Admission: Adults: £18.50, Children: £11.50
From $ 8
Cawdor Castle
Immortalized at the fictional home of the Thane of Cawdor in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Cawdor Castle is one of Scotland’s most famous castles. Despite its literary notoriety, Cawdor Castle actually has little in common with its fictional counterpart and wasn’t built until the 14th-century - years after both the real and fictional King Macbeth existed. Today, the castle is still home to the descendants of the Clan Campbell of Cawdor and the grade-A listed building remains remarkably preserved, surrounded by immaculate gardens, the Cawdor Big Wood and a 9-hole golf course. Highlights for visitors include the sumptuous Drawing Room, with its fascinating family portraits; the Dining Room, with its grand stone fireplace; the 17th-century-style Tapestry Bedroom; and the Old Kitchen, as well as the fabled Thorn Tree around which the historic castle was built.
Practical Info
Cawdor Castle is located around 20km east of Inverness and is open daily 10am -5.30pm from May to early October. Adult admission at the time of writing is £10.70.
Address: Cawdor, Nairn, Scotland
Hours: Open daily 10am -5.30pm from May to early October
Admission: Adults: £10.70
From $ 16
Calton Hill
Looming over the Royal Mile and Princes Street, Calton Hill is one of Edinburgh’s famous seven hills and part of the capital’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. While locals know it as a picnic spot and recreation area, for visitors the main draw to Calton Hill are the spectacular views – look out over the city from the summit and you’ll enjoy a panoramic view spanning Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, all the way out to Leith and the Firth of Forth.
Calton Hill is also home to a number of prominent Edinburgh landmarks, including the Nelson Monument, the Dugald Stewart Monument, the City Observatory and the National Monument of Scotland, an unfinished tribute to Scottish servicemen inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. The hill is also the center of festivities for the annual Beltane Fire Festival in April, and hosts a number of summer festivals and events.
Practical Info
Calton Hill is located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, just north of Calton Road and the Royal Mile.
Address: Calton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland
From $ 16
Clava Cairns (Stones of Clava)
The Clava Cairns—or the Prehistoric Burial Cairns of Balnuaran of Clava—are all that remains of what was once a much larger Bronze Age burial complex. Dating back 4,000 years, the evocative cemetery site retains original features, including passage graves, standing stones, and ring cairns (stone circles).
The Basics
Two parts of the Clava Cairns complex can be visited: the Balnuaran of Clava, which features two passage graves, a kerb ring cairn, standing stones, and a central ring cairn; and Milton of Clava to the southwest, with its ruins of a medieval chapel and a cairn. Visitors will find information boards at the site explaining the significance and symbolism of the ancient stone mounds.
The cairns make for a common stop on guided day trips from Inverness and Invergordon, most of which include round-trip transport and visits to other famous Highland sites, such as Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, and Culloden Battlefield—the site of a major Jacobite defeat—which is just a 5-minute drive from the Clava Cairns.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Clava Cairns is a must-see for history buffs.
- The area around the cairns can become muddy after rain, so wear sturdy footwear.
- Bring rain gear in case of a downpour, as the open-air site is exposed.
- The surface around the cairns is uneven and may be difficult for wheelchair users to navigate.
How to Get There
The Clava Cairns are located about seven miles (11 kilometers) east of Inverness, and are not served by public transport. From the Culloden Battlefield, the cairns are just a 5-minute drive or 30-minute walk away. Parking is available at the site.
When to Get There
Because of their off-the-beaten-track location, the Clava Cairns do not attract big crowds. If you want to have the site all to yourself, go early in the morning.
The Mystery and Intrigues of the Clava Cairns
As with many prehistoric burial sites, the Clava Cairns remain somewhat of a mystery. Historians can only theorize about their purpose or meaning. The cairns’ alignment suggest midwinter sunset was an important time for those who built it, but it’s not known exactly why it was so significant. With the sheer amount of effort necessary to arrange the stones for each grave, historians also believe the cairns may have housed important members of society.
Address: Scotland
From $ 91
Dunure Castle
Peeking out from the rocky seashore of Ayr Bay, the dramatically situated Dunure Castle was once the seat of the Kennedys of Carrick and the notorious site where the last abbot of Crossraguel was roasted on a spit.
Today, the castle’s bloody legacy is all that remains and the once-mighty stronghold lies in ruins, but it’s none-the-less an enchanting spot, with elements of the stone-brick 13th-century castle still clearly visible. It’s none-the-less an enchanting spot, especially at sunset, with the crumbling guard-tower framed by rugged coastal cliffs and the crashing waves of the Atlantic.
Practical Info
Dunure Castle is located by Ayr Bay on Scotland’s Firth of Clyde coast.
Address: Ayr, South Ayrshire, Scotland
From $ 45
Chanonry Point
Ever wanted to see bottlenose dolphins feed and play in the wild? Chanonry Point is just the spot. A narrow peninsula in Scotland’s Moray Firth, dolphins can be spotted here throughout the year. In summer though, you’ll often see dolphins come right up to the shore as they chase the salmon that come and go in the rivers Ness and Beauly.
The best spot for dolphin spotting at Chanonry Point is on the pebble beach behind the lighthouse, or at the path near the car park entrance. Try to come around incoming tide, which is an hour or two after low tide. Why? This is when the dolphins love to fish and play in the strong currents. While you’re here, keep a look out for porpoises and grey seals too. And between May and October, you may even see Minke whales.
You can also take boat trips out on the water from Cromarty and Avoch, just along the coast. In nearby North Kessock, between June and September, the Dolphin and Seal Centre is another great place to look out for dolphins.
Practical Info
The dolphin center is open seven days a week from June to September, with regular buses to North Kessock from Inverness. To get to Chanonry Point by public transport, take a bus from Inverness to Fortrose. This journey will take about half an hour. From the post office bus stop, it’s just a 2.7-km walk or a six-minute taxi ride.
Address: Chanonry Ness, Fortrose, Scotland
From $ 53
Culzean Castle
Set atop the Ayrshire cliffs, this sprawling neoclassical mansion is one of Scotland’s most famous stately homes—it even appears on the back of the Scottish 5-pound note. Designed by 18th-century architect Robert Adam, Culzean (pronounced Cullane) boasts palatial interiors and grounds that encompass woods, follies, and even beaches.
The Basics
Now run by the National Trust for Scotland, Culzean Castle and Country Park was the former seat of Clan Kennedy. is. Book a ticket to access the castle and the park in advance or pay for admission to the park only. Guided tours along the Ayrshire Coast from Glasgow also include the castle and surrounding park. Once inside, explore independently or take part in one of the twice-daily guided tours (April–October only). Visitors with a keen interest in Scottish history and heritage may opt for a National Trust for Scotland Discover Ticket, which grants access to 90 National Trust for Scotland attractions, including Culzean Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
It’s also possible for visitors to stay overnight in holiday cottages in the park, at the camping and caravan site, or in the top floor of the castle.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Culzean Castle is a must-see for architecture fans, history buffs, and walking enthusiasts.
- Restaurants and cafés are located on-site.
- The castle is wheelchair accessible as are some parts of Culzean Country Park.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring rainproof gear so you can explore the park no matter what the weather.
How to Get There
Culzean Castle is 12 miles (19 kilometers) south of Ayr. Girvan-bound Stagecoach buses (line 60) departs from Ayr and stops at the castle gates, with the journey taking just more than 30 minutes.
When to Get There
The castle opens from April through October, with guided tours taking place twice daily. Arrive early in the day to ensure your spot on a tour. The park is open year-round, but facilities are limited between November and March.
Highlights of the Castle
Among the highlights of the castle’s interior is the grand oval staircase and the opulent round drawing room. The 642-acre (260-hectare) estate also encompasses many delights, including several miles of coastline dotted with beaches, dunes, and caves, as well as walled gardens, an ice house, fruit-planted glasshouses, and a deer park.
Address: Maybole KA19 8LE, Glasgow, Scotland
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Doune Castle
Five miles west of the town of Dunblane, Doune Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval buildings in Scotland. The setting for the movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Doune Castle offers fans of the comedy an audio guide narrated by Monty Python member Terry Jones. The castle has also been used for filming in Game of Thrones and Outlander.
With its 100-foot-high gatehouse walls, Doune Castle is a rather austere, high-walled kind of a place that was originally built for the First Duke of Albany over seven centuries ago. As you wander, imagine the past guests who walked its echoing stairwells, like Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie — he used to imprison government troops here.
Practical Info
Sitting 16 km northwest of Stirling off the A84, Doune Castle is run by Historic Scotland. It’s open daily from April to September from 9:30am to 5:30pm. In October, it’s open daily until 4pm, and between November and March, its hours are 9:30am to 4pm. Entry costs £5.50.
Address: Castle Hill, Doune, Perthshire, United Kingdom, Scotland
Hours: April to September 9:30am to 5:30pm. In October, open daily until 4pm. November to March 9:30am to 4pm.
Admission: £5.50
From $ 47
Canongate
The historic street of Canongate makes up the eastern section of the Royal Mile, leading up to the grounds of Holywood Palace and is home to many of the key attractions of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Taking its name from the canons of the neighboring Holyrood Abbey, modern-day Canongate is one of the most architectural diverse sections of the Old Town, with the strikingly modern Scottish Parliament building standing in contrast to the grand Holyrood Palace and the futuristic, tent-like structure housing the Our Dynamic Earth exhibition.
Canongate is also home to a number of significant 16th and 17th century buildings including the painstakingly preserved Canongate Tolbooth, dating back to 1591 and 17th century townhouses like Russel House and Queensbury house. In between browsing the many souvenir stores and sipping a pint in the legendary World’s End pub, be sure to visit the Museum of Edinburgh, the headquarters of the Edinburgh World Heritage Trust in the Acheson House and the churchyard of the 17th-century Canongate Kirk, where famous Scots like economist Adam Smith and poet Robert Fergusson are buried.
Canongate is also home to a number of significant 16th and 17th century buildings including the painstakingly preserved Canongate Tolbooth, dating back to 1591 and 17th century townhouses like Russel House and Queensbury house. In between browsing the many souvenir stores and sipping a pint in the legendary World’s End pub, be sure to visit the Museum of Edinburgh, the headquarters of the Edinburgh World Heritage Trust in the Acheson House and the churchyard of the 17th-century Canongate Kirk, where famous Scots like economist Adam Smith and poet Robert Fergusson are buried.
Address: Canongate, Edinburgh, Scotland
From $ 16
Caledonian Canal
Pleasure boats float along Caledonian Canal, a scenic 60-mile (97-kilometer) waterway that runs through Scotland's Great Glen, connecting Fort William in the southwest to Inverness in the northeast. The canal, which links Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, Loch Dochfour, and Loch Ness, is popular with walkers and cyclists, who follow towpath trails.
The Basics
Though the long-distance Great Glen Way, which follows the path of the canal, attracts hikers and cyclists to the water’s edge, most visitors to Scotland encounter the Caledonian Canal during sightseeing cruises. The most-visited part of the canal is the area around Loch Ness, a vast and scenic lake, and the supposed home of a mysterious aquatic monster. Organized tours departing from Edinburgh and Inverness often include a visit to the canal, as well as trips to other area Highland highlights, such as Urquhart Castle, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, and Glencoe.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Caledonian Canal is a must-see for scenery-seekers and active travelers.
- Swimming is not allowed in the waterway.
- Wi-Fi hotspots are available (for a fee) at various spots along the canal.
- Some parts of the Great Glen Way are wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
If you’re coming from Fort William, Neptune’s Staircase, 4 miles (6 kilometers) north of the city in the village of Banavie, are the nearest and most spectacular set of lochs on the canal. To get there, ride the Mallaig-bound train from Fort William to Banavie. If you’re based in Inverness, take a stroll along the Canal Road, which connects to the Great Glen Way.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the canal is in summer. At this time, the weather is generally warmer, days are longer, and sightseers can take advantage of cruise vessels’ outdoor decks. The canal is perhaps at its most scenic during sunrise and sunset, when the golden glow reflects off the water’s surface.
The History of the Caledonian Canal
Built in the late 18th and early 19th century, the Caledonian Canal was meant to serve as a safe route for commercial freight who wanted to avoid the hazardous west coast of Scotland. Unfortunately, by the time it actually opened in 1822, larger steam ships were becoming more commonplace, and were too large to use the canal. Nowadays, the canal is largely used for recreational purposes.
Address: Inverness, Scotland
From $ 26
Dalwhinnie Distillery
At a remote spot in the Cairngorms National Park, Dalwhinnie is one of the most famous names in Scotland’s lucrative whisky business. Thanks to the purity of local snow-fed water and its proximity to a former drover’s road crossing the Highlands, Dalwhinnie Distillery has been producing whiskies in its signature white-washed facility with its matching pair of pagodas since 1897. The distillery is best known for its smooth, heathery, 15-year-old malt and its traditional production methods, which include barley harvested in Scotland. The “Uisghe Beatha,” or “water of life” is then mixed in copper stills, condensed in traditional wooden worm tubs and aged in oak casks.
Dalwhinnie Distillery is often visited on whisky tours that include visits and tastings at a number of distilleries in central Scotland and the Scottish Highlands. Travelers may tour the facility to see the distillers at work, learn about Dalwhinnie’s whisky traditions, sample classic single malts and opt for gourmet chocolate pairings.
Practical Info
The distillery is open daily from 9:30am to 4:45pm and is located one hour south of Inverness and two hours north of Edinburgh by car on the A9. The site includes a visitor center and gift shop, and is in close proximity to a number of other distilleries. Advance bookings are recommended, and travelers should be advised that winter weather in the area can be harsh.
Address: Dalwhinnie, Inverness, Inverness-shire PH19 1AB, Scotland
Hours: Daily 9:30am–4:45pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 323
Culloden Battlefield
The Culloden Battlefield was the site of one of the last battles to take place on British soil. On April 16, 1746, Bonnie Prince Charlie and his army of 5,000 Jacobite Highlanders faced off against the Duke of Cumberland and 9,000 Hanoverian government troops. Though the Jacobites fought valiantly, they were ultimately defeated, resulting in the elimination of the Scottish clan system and the suppression of Highland culture. Today, the Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre retells the events of that fateful day through interactive exhibits that put travelers in the thick of the action.
The Basics
The Culloden Battlefield is a must-see site for any history buff hoping to untangle the story of the British Isles. Visitors can purchase entrance tickets to find themselves on the frontlines of one of the most important battles in British history and explore the popular site at their own pace. The battlefield is also often a stop on guided day tours from Inverness and Invergordon, most of which include round-trip transportation and visits to other famous attractions, such as Loch Ness. Entry to Culloden is included in National Trust for Scotland Discover Tickets, 3- or 7-day sightseeing passes that grant visitors entry to a number of Scottish sights, including Culzean Castle, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, and the Preston Mill. Many travelers combine a visit here with a trip to the nearby Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age site located just 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) away.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To ensure entry, it’s best to book tickets in advance.
- The center and the battlefield are both wheelchair accessible.
- Audio guides are available, so visitors can take a self-guided tour of the outdoor battle site.
- It’s best to wear warm clothing to walk around the windswept moor where the battle took place.
How to Get There
Culloden is about five miles (eight kilometers) east of Inverness. Buses travel from Inverness’ city center to the site, though schedules change seasonally. If traveling without a car, the easiest way to get there is via organized day trip tour from Inverness, most of which include pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
The battlefield is open daily, and most visitors go during summer, when mild weather makes for pleasant strolling around the open-air battlefield site. The visitor center is open daily from 10am to 4pm from January 3 to March 31; from 9am to 5:30pm in April, May, September, and October; from 9am to 6pm in June and July; from 9am to 7pm in August; and from 10am to 4pm from November 1 to December 23, with varying seasonal hours in late December. It’s best to visit in early morning to get in before the crowds.
Things to See at the Culloden Battlefield
Visitors can amble around the battlefield in Culloden Moor, where headstones memorialize fallen soldiers and the Memorial Cairn pays homage to those who died for the Jacobite cause. The battlefield is also the setting for Leanach Cottage, a thatched residence that’s one of the few remaining examples of a common building type in the area during the early 18th century.
Address: Culloden Moor, Inverness, Culloden IV2 5EU, Scotland
Hours: Battlefield open daily, visitor center hours vary
Admission: Adult GBP 11, Family GBP 26, Single Adult Family GBP 22
From $ 14
Dallas Dhu Distillery
Sitting beside the clear waters of the Manachy Burn at the heart of Speyside whisky region, Dallas Dhu Distillery (the name means ‘Black Water Valley’ in Gaelic) produced a flavorsome single malt known as Roderick Dhu from 1898 until 1983. As one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, it was then closed down and today it is run as a museum showcasing early whisky production.
As much of the whitewashed distillery was rebuilt after a fire in the 1950s, the equipment on show dates from that time. Tours are by handheld audio guides that take visitors through the process of whisky making, including the barns in which the barley was stored, the still house where the uisge beatha (water of life) was distilled and the bonded warehouse where the finished product was aged for three years.
There’s a visitor center in which to sample a dram or two as you watch documentaries on the art of whisky making; true aficionados will relish the choice of malts in the museum store. Dallas Dhu can be visited along with the 50 distilleries and cooperages found in the Speyside countryside.
Practical Info
The distillery is open April–September daily from 9:30am–5:30pm, October–March Sat–Wed 10am–4pm. Admission for adults is £5.50; while seniors & students are £4.40; children aged 5–15 are £3.30 and they must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is free with the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass. Dallas Dhu Distillery is just south of Forres off the A96 in Speyside; Inverness is 56 miles (90 km) by road and the journey takes about 90 minutes. The area is well served by buses.
Address: Mannachie Road, Forres, Morayshire IV36 2RR, Scotland
Hours: Apr–Sept daily 9:30am–5:30pm; Oct–Mar Sat–Wed 10am–4pm
Admission: Adults £5.50; seniors & students £4.40; children aged 5–15 £3.30
From $ 40