Stirling Castle, Scotland
From Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Glasgow’s famous shopping district, Scotland’s top cities have no end of must-visit attractions, but don’t forget the many amazing places to visit elsewhere in Scotland. Whether you want to explore the rugged Scottish Highlands or tour a historic royal castle; be sure to include in your itinerary these 5 must-visit attractions outside of Edinburgh and Glasgow.
1. Loch Ness and the Highlands
The mist-shrouded mountains, dramatic glens and murky lochs of the Scottish Highlands are storybook Scotland at its most enchanting and you simply can’t visit the country without venturing into its northern wilderness. Take in the highlights with a tour of Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands from Edinburgh or Glasgow and discover the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, the idyllic landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park, the historic Fort William, and Glencoe, Scotland’s most famous glen.
2. Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond
Scotland’s grandest and most historically significant castle is an impressive sight, perched on a cliff top and surrounded by towering defense walls. The 16th-century fortress has been home to King Arthur and Mary Queen of Scots, seen numerous battles (most famously the Battle of Bannockburn) and hosted the premiere of Braveheart, but is now better known as a tourist attraction, housing a number of fascinating interactive exhibitions and medieval displays. Combine a tour of Stirling Castle from Edinburgh or Glasgow, with a drive through Scotland’s first National Park and a visit to Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest loch.
3. St Andrews
Proud of its former status as the seat of the Scottish monarchy, the Kingdom of Fife still maintains its royal connections (it was here that Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge first met at university) and the scenic peninsula is dotted with magnificent palaces, historic castles and abbeys. Take in the top attractions on a St Andrews and Fife Day Trip from Edinburgh and discover the famous St Andrews Links – home to the oldest golf course in the world and the birthplace of the sport.
4. Alnwick Castle
Journey to the historic Scottish borders and cross into the English county of Northumberland to visit the majestic Alnwick Castle on a day trip from Edinburgh and learn about the castle’s long history under both English and Scottish rule, as well as its recent on-screen fame – the castle was a filming location for both Downton Abbey and the Harry Potter movies. Visitors can explore the opulent State Rooms and beautiful gardens, admire one of England’s finest private art collections, and visit the numerous exhibitions, as well as dressing up in medieval costumes, checking out Downton Abbey props or learning to ‘fly a broomstick’.
5. Glencoe
From climbing Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, to tackling one of Scotland’s Great Trails, there are some fantastic opportunities for hiking in Scotland, but if you only have time for one hike, make it a trek through the undeniably beautiful glacial valley of Glencoe, framed by towering peaks and shimmering lochs. If you don’t fancy hiking, don’t worry – opt for a West Highlands day trip from Glasgow and couple a view of the glen, with a visit to nearby Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor and Kilchurn Castle.
Must Visit Attractions Outside of Edinburgh and Glasgow from Scotland Things to Do
