The country of Scotland may not be massive, but there is quite a bit of fun and adventures packed into the space that is available. In fact, families will find that there is so much to do during a vacation there that they may have quite the time figuring out what are the must-see items and which ones can wait until another time.
Now, there are many different ways to go about touring this phenomenal country, which is why everything mentioned is not going to be in any particular order. After all, a few travelers prefer to start in one area and work their way to the north before going east, south, and west, while others will find one central location and simply head in a different direction each day.
Therefore, here are the 8 must-see attractions and sights that everyone must find themselves at during their time in Scotland:
- The Edinburgh Castle
This historic Scottish castle will keep the whole family mesmerized from the second that they walk up to the outside until long after they leave. Families will find themselves seeing so much while at this castle. It is now home to the Stone of Scone, the Prisons of War, the Honours of Scotland, Mons Meg, which is a 15th century gun, the One O’Clock Gun, the National War Museum of Scotland, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, which is the oldest building in the entire city.
https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/
- The Royal Mile
While this itinerary is in no particular order, families will most likely find themselves heading down the Royal Mile after seeing the aforementioned castle, due to the path that leads straight from the castle to the road. This main street is filled with stores, restaurants, and bars, but it is the attractions like the Canongate Kirkyard, the High Kirk of St. Giles, and the Museum of Edinburgh that get the most attention.
- Blair Castle
This castle can be found within the Scottish Highlands and it is the seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. Blair Castle is the most popular castle in all the country. Everyone should be prepared to be amongst many other tourists during one of the fascinating tours. The entire tour encompasses approximately thirty rooms including the China Room, the armory, and the elegant and luxurious ballroom.
- The Culloden Battlefield
At the visitor center of this battlefield, travelers will learn the importance of the 1746 battle that took place in this area. Everyone can take a self-guided tour of the center, as well as the battlefield. The battlefield has been carefully restored, so that it looks exactly as it did when the battles were taking place.
- Loch Ness
No one can possibly visit Scotland and not take the time to visit Loch Ness, which is a massive loch within the Highlands area. Families will want to take a boat ride out on the loch, not only for the breathtaking views, but also a chance to say that they might have seen the elusive loch ness monster, who is affectionately known as Nessie by all the locals.
- Ben Lomond
This three thousand plus foot mountain can be found near the eastern shoreline of Loch Lomond. People have been climbing to its summit since 1756. So many people have climbed this mountain that the paths appear very well worn, although everyone will still need proper hiking shoes and plenty of water if they plan on reaching the top. Those who choose to tackle this adventure will find themselves starting their journey at the Rowardenan car park.
- The Museums and Galleries of Glasgow
There are so many art galleries and museums within this fantastic city. More than twenty at last count. Almost all of them are free so no one has an excuse to not enter them all. A few that are the highly recommended include the Gallery of Modern Art, Scotland’s Museum of Transport and Travel, the Mackintosh House at the Hunterian Art Gallery, and the Riverside Museum. In between adventures, families are encouraged to stop into the Willow Tearooms for a cup of tea and a little snack.
- Burns Cottage
Burns Cottage can ironically enough be found in Ayrshire and Burns Country. It has been an important piece of history since it was constructed back in 1757. families should see this cottage, as well as the nearby Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, as it gives quite the insight into this great poet’s life. Inside the museum, there are a plethora of artifacts, including priceless writings by the poet himself. Those who cannot get enough information about this poet may also want to see the Alloway Auld Kirk, the old Brig o’Doon, and the Memorial Gardens, which are all within walking distance of the cottage and museum.
families will have so much fun creating their itinerary for a vacation in Scotland. There is so much to see in addition to what is listed above. As mentioned before, there is no right or wrong way to see anything in this stunning country. It will make sense however to see certain attractions together when they are close by and to see a few of them after others. However, as long as a families sees everything on their list, they will be able to claim that they had a wonderful time in this part of the world.