Weekend Breaks in Scotland Desktop Header
For a fairly small country, Scotland offers many options for a wonderful weekend break for couples, families, and solo travellers. The country is chock full of rich history, must-visit cultural attractions, beautiful castles, and atmospheric landscapes and vistas. Adding to the stunning scenery is a warm culture with friendly and engaging people. Scotland really does offer a little something for all travel tastes.

Within a few hours, you could be whisked away for a vibrant city break, explore the ruined abbeys that dot the southern border, discover prehistoric chambered cairns, wander around crag top castles that tell the history of the Highlands’ turbulent past, or enjoy a day of beachcombing and woodland strolls. At the end of a full day, you can spend your evening relaxing by a crackling fire in a cosy pub with a dram of your favourite whisky. Is it any wonder Scotland rarely fails to charm its visitors?

Escape for the weekend to discover prehistoric ruins, explore crag-top castles, hike quiet woodlands, and relax by a crackling fire - Scotland has it all! Check out these 17 awesome weekend breaks to plan your getaway. #Scotland #WeekendinScotland
Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Edinburgh (Intro Image)

It can be hard to choose a destination for the best weekend break in Scotland because they are all great, so we’ve asked some fellow travellers to join us with their favourite weekend getaway ideas to give you choices if you’re looking for inspiration. We have included ideas for what to see and do, recommendations for places to stay, and great places to eat, to help you make the most of your well-deserved getaway.

No matter which getaway you choose, you’re sure to have a wonderful weekend away filled with history, delicious food and drink, and the landscapes and scenery that make Scotland so beautiful!

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OBAN

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Oban (The Two That Do)

The charming resort town of Oban on the west coast of Scotland just over an hour south of Fort William has all the ingredients for a perfect weekend break.

Nature lovers will simply revel in the incredible landscapes of the surrounding region. Miles of rugged and romantic coastlines and an abundance of walking and hiking routes through the verdant countryside make Oban ideal for an active couple of days. That’s even without considering the opportunity for a boat or fishing trip out into the Firth.

Fancy going further afield? Then hop on one of the many ferry services for a day trip to one of the nearby islands such as Mull or Iona and enjoy yet more stunning scenery.

Nestled amongst such natural riches it is unsurprising that Oban is also a haven for food lovers. The town boasts an abundance of enticing fish and seafood restaurants perfect to celebrate your day in the Scottish countryside or merely savour as you watch a splendid sunset. For a cheaper, yet just as delicious experience, head to MacGillivray’s Seafood stall located in between the train station and ferry terminal. Their fish supper is likely to be the best you’ll taste anywhere in Scotland.

Talking of taste experiences no one can visit Oban without stepping foot inside the famous distillery in the heart of the town. Their hugely informative tasting experience will leave you with an undeniable warmth and a fresh perspective of Scotland’s most famous product.

Contribution and Photo from Paul of The Two That Do

LOCH TORRIDON

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Loch Torridon

Loch Torridon, and the accompanying Torridon Resort, have completely changed the meaning of an amazing break in Scotland.

Imagine a gorgeous lake with wilderness for miles on end, complete seclusion with nothing but birds chirping and wind whirling past you. A beautiful valley with a lake in the middle with its icy clear water and you’re free to do whatever you want in this paradise.

Located in the Scottish Highlands, Torridon requires careful planning and a car to get to. If you take the A835 from Inverness heading to A896 it will bring you to Upper Torridon. The drive is very scenic and a leisurely activity on its own.

If you want to camp you can do it easily on one of their two campsites or if you want to splurge a bit, head to the Torridon Resort. This hotel is world-renowned and whether you want to stay here for the night or just stop here for a meal or afternoon tea you will not be disappointed. The hotel offers a lot of activities to connect you to nature from kayaking, cycling and ultimately taking the plunge in the icy waters of the lake with the knowledge that a hot bath is waiting for you. Or you can simply connect with yourself with a book by the window with the crackling sound of a fire in the background while savouring a glass of whiskey (which they have an extensive collection of).

The entire experience of Torridon is a little surreal and you are bound to return home with a smile and a sense of satisfaction after your weekend break.

Contribution from Ucman of Brown Boy Travels

ISLE OF SKYE

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Isle of Skye (Winging the World)

For an active getaway showcasing world-class scenery, head to the Isle of Skye in northern Scotland. This island escape has got it all – jaw-dropping landscapes, epic road trips, mouth-watering food, and adventurous hikes.

Portree is the most convenient base on the island and is well connected to all of the best attractions. Bosville Hotel is a good accommodation option as the front-facing rooms overlook the colourful harbour.

The dramatic Cuillin mountain range is only around a 20-minute drive away and offers amazing hillwalking opportunities with some of the best views in the entire country. Only head up into the mountains if the weather and visibility are good though!

The Fairy Pools is located close to the Cuillin gateway and should be a stop for anyone visiting Skye. These beautiful rock pools are filled with incredibly clear water, all cascading down via waterfalls from the mountains. It is easy to see why this area has become so popular, it really is like something from a fairy tale!

Finally, don’t miss the famous Trotternish Loop, a circuit road around the north of the island. This connects some of the most impressive sights on Skye, including the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the Quirkian. The loop takes around two hours to drive but if time allows, it is well worth doing the circular hike around the Quiriang. The views over to the isles of Raasay and Rona are incredible. On a clear day, you’ll also be able to see way out to the mainland. The hike should take between three-four hours.

For dinner, head back to Portree where there are plenty of food and drink options. For a taste of the famous Cullen skink, grab a table at Cuchullin Restaurant in the middle of town.

Contribution and Photo from Sheree of Winging the World

MORAY SPEYSIDE

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Moray Speyside (Food & Drink Destinations)

Sandwiched between Inverness and Aberdeen, the Moray Speyside region of northeastern Scotland offers a great weekend break for nearly every type of traveler.

The region has been made famous for having the highest concentration of whisky distilleries in Scotland. Many of the world’s most famous whisky brands including Chivas and Johnny Walker call Moray Speyside home. Speyside is also home to the only Malt Whisky Trail, allowing visitors, with a designated driver, of course, to experience the perfect Scotland whisky tour. At the distillery, visitors will learn how whisky is made and sample a wee taste of whisky.

For food travelers, Moray Speyside is a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. With access to incredibly fresh ingredients from the sea and the land, cooks around Moray Speyside are serving up vast amounts of mouth-watering traditional and modern Scottish dishes. One place worth checking out is the Copper Dog Pub in the Craigellachie Hotel. Their menu bursts with locally sourced, innovative Scottish fare, including Haggis bon-bons. The Craigellachie is situated in the middle of Moray Speyside, making it the perfect location to explore around from.

To help burn off all that great food there are plenty of outdoor activities to experience in Moray Speyside. The natural beauty of Moray Speyside is unmatched with rolling hills, crystal blue rivers, and a stunning coastline. Hikers will find several trails throughout the region. Most famous is the trail up Ben Rinnes, the highest peak in the region at 2,700 feet.

No visit is complete without a visit to Gordon Castle and its walled garden. Dating back to the 18th Century, Gordon Castle was one of the largest country houses ever built in Scotland. Today, the walled garden is open to the public to explore the many herbs, vegetables, and flowers being grown. There is a cafe in the garden to enjoy a light lunch made with ingredients from the garden or afternoon tea.

Contribution and Photo from Amber and Eric of Food & Drink Destinations

ORKNEY

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Orkney Islands (Meandering Wild)

The Orkney Islands are a collection of small islands just eight miles off the Scottish Mainland from John O’Groats.  They are perfect for a weekend of nature, wildlife, and walking with a lot of history in the mix.  Orkney Mainland is the main island and provides more than enough to see and do without needing to take ferries or fly to the smaller islands.

The islands are quiet and calm and even as you step off the ferry the difference can be felt.  The landscape is not as dramatic as other Scottish Islands, but the lack of trees and high cliffs makes it feel wild and remote.  Year-round there is a breeze blowing which can range from a gentle breeze to a raging gale.  Multiple layers and windproof clothing is essential even for a summer visit.

One of the main attractions on Orkney is the UNESCO world heritage site.  These have been identified because of their historical significance.  Skara Brae is a Neolithic village that was uncovered by a storm in 1850 and today the remains of the buildings with their bed boxes and dressers can be seen.  Nearby is the Ring of Brodgar, a large stone circle.  From the ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness and Maes Howe Burial Chamber can all be seen and are all part of Neolithic life in Orkney.

In Kirkwall, the main city is the beautiful St Magnus Cathedral with the ruins of the Bishops and Earls palaces.  The story of Kirkwall and the islands are told in the nearby museum.

As well as history there are beautiful beaches, high cliffs, and an abundance of wildlife including puffins in the summer months, seals, and otters.  There are a number of nature reserves and if you are lucky you may see a short-eared owl just sitting on the side of the road.

There is a range of places to stay but Heatherlea Bed & Breakfast is a perfect place to start exploring the islands.  For the best restaurants, it has to be the Foveran Restaurant just outside Kirkwall who also has beautiful accommodation.

Contribution and Photo from Suzanne of Meandering Wild

ABERDEEN

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Aberdeen

For a relaxing weekend break, head to the port city of Aberdeen in northeastern Scotland. The town is built where the Dee and Don rivers flow into the North Sea and is known for its stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and rich cultural history. As the country’s third-largest city, you’ll find a wonderful mix of cozy restaurants and bars, great museums, and picturesque scenery.

Aberdeen is known as the ‘Granite City’, a reference to the many grey-stone granite buildings that you can see throughout the town. A great example of this is Marischal College in the center of Aberdeen. Built in 1593, this enormous structure is said to be the second-largest granite building in the world. Other remarkable architectural gems lie in the Old Aberdeen, including St Machar Cathedral, a breathtaking place of worship, as well as King’s College. You’ll find plenty of lovely places to stay and eat in Old Aberdeen. Check out Kilau for some great coffee and brunch. The Alba Guest House is a great stay and only a ten-minute walk to King’s College.

For a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hazlehead Park or go for a stroll through the Johnston Gardens. The gardens feature several exotic Japanese flowers, as well as a rustic bridge, waterfall, and even several calming streams.

Another great way to appreciate the outdoors is to explore the Aberdeen harbor. Several tour companies offer cruises where you can often spot different marine species such as bottlenose and Risso dolphins, as well as minke whales. For a different vantage point, check out Torry Battery, where you can take in the vistas from above.

Contribution from Natasha of Great Ocean Road Collective

GLASGOW

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Glasgow (Where Goes Rose)

Possibly the coolest and most vibrant city in Scotland is Glasgow. For many years, it was overshadowed by Edinburgh and, while it’s fair to say that Edinburgh has a greater number of popular tourist attractions, you shouldn’t miss out on visiting Glasgow during your Scotland trip. Glasgow is full of vibrant nightlife, affordable restaurants, hipster cafes, green parks, art galleries, and culture making it perfect for city lovers.

A weekend in Glasgow is best started by an excellent brunch; top picks are Wilson Street Pantry in the city centre or Gnom (or the breakfast bao buns), Potluck (don’t miss the hotcakes with ice cream and candy floss) or Cafe Strangebrew in Southside. Other things to do include wandering Pollok Park with its highland cow population and checking out notable attractions in the city such as Kelvingrove Art Gallery, the City Chambers, and the Botanical Gardens. The Lighthouse is a fantastic modern art gallery built in the old headquarters of the Glasgow Herald newspaper. Climb the awesome spiral staircase for impressive skyline views from the top balcony.

The Glasgow street art is fantastic so don’t miss this if you’re a fan! Another quirky thing to do in Glasgow is to find tiny coffee shops inside refurbished blue police phone boxes. For fantastic food in Glasgow, check out Hanoi Bike Shop and Bread Meats Bread known for its burgers and fries with toppings from around the world.

Contribution and Photo from Rose of Where Goes Rose

INVERARAY

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Inveraray (The Flashpacker)

Inveraray is quintessential Scotland. Sitting on the shores of Loch Fyne in southwestern Scotland, Argyll’s county town with its streets of distinctive black-and-white terraced buildings framed by mountains is home to one of the best castles in Scotland.

Although it is beloved by day-trippers, spend the weekend in Inveraray to get the most out of the town. It also an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area, perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, or just a relaxing break, punctuated by great meals.

Fans of Downton Abbey will immediately recognise Inveraray Castle but this is no historic set piece. This fairy-tale castle continues to be home to the Duke of Argyll and its Armoury hall provides a whistle-stop tour of Scottish Highland history. Make time to walk on the castle’s grounds. If you’re very lucky you may spot a red squirrel, an increasingly rare sight in the UK.

For visits out of town, head to Luss, the picture-postcard-perfect village on the shores of the mighty Loch Lomond. Alternatively, take a scenic drive along Argyll’s Secret Coast to Tighnabruaich or take a walk in Argyll Forest Park. The view from ‘Rest and Be Thankful’, the mountain pass between Glen Kinglass and Glen Croe, is sensational.

Stay overnight at the Thistle Guest House in St Catherine’s to be treated to typical Scottish hospitality, traditional breakfasts, and Loch Fyne views.

For sublime seafood, eat at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, a ten-minute drive from Inveraray. Not to be confused with the small restaurant chain of the same name, they also have a great deli counter.

Contribution and Photo from Bridge of The Flashpacker

FORT WILLIAM

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Fort William (UK Travel Planning)

Located in the Lochaber area in the western highlands of Scotland, on the edge of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is the perfect base to explore the area which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in Scotland. With Ben Nevis on its doorstep, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Monument, and visitor centre a short drive to the west, and Glencoe to the south you are spoilt for choice for a weekend itinerary.

For lovers of hillwalking and climbing Ben Nevis or one of the many other mountains (or Munros) in the area offers a variety of options. Prefer a road trip? Take a drive to Glencoe for scenery that will be guaranteed to take your breath away. For budding 007’s the Skyfall drive to Glen Etive is a must-do.

If you enjoy a train trip don’t miss the Jacobite Steam Train. The train departs Fort William for Mallaig along the West Highland Line and crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct along the way. The viaduct may seem familiar to Harry Potter fans. The Hogwarts Express steam train carrying Harry Potter and chums features in four of the films!

Not to be missed in Fort William itself is the Granite House which specialises in gifts and souvenirs and is popular with locals and visitors alike. Recommended restaurants in Fort William include Crannog which serves beautiful fresh Scottish seafood, Garrison West a popular Scottish pub with tasty food and drink, and The Wildcat Coffee Shop which serves vegan food.

Contribution and Photo from Tracy of UK Travel Planning

ISLAY

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Islay (It's Sometimes Sunny in Bangor)

Islay, pronounced ‘eye-la’, is the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides and it is a great destination for a weekend getaway and a must for any whisky enthusiast where it is the home of Scotland’s most revered peat smoked Scotch whiskies.

On the island, there are nine active distilleries to explore, each with their own experiences and tours so there is enough to keep busy with whisky exploration alone. A number of these distilleries can also be reached by foot from the arrival ports and Port Ellen marks the beginning of the ‘3 Distillery Pathway’ which connects the three famed distilleries of Laphraiog, Lagulvin, and Ardbeg along a 3-mile Route following the southeast coastline. Laphroaig is also one of the more popular distillery tours for those planning a quick day trip to Islay.

There is also much to explore through longer stays and for those planning to drive or even cycle on the island, there are many coastal drives and somewhat unworldly scenery with empty landscapes and seemingly endless peat bogs. Because the island is focused on whisky and the distilleries it can be hard to find restaurants outside of mealtimes but each distillery will have their own cafes and restaurants to pair with their range of whiskies.

Accommodation is also limited so booking is best in advance and a great hotel within a short walk of the near beach at Port Ellen is the Machrie Hotel & Golf Links. It’s perfect for both those arriving and travelling by car or on foot on the island.

Contribution and Photo from Allan of It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

SHETLAND

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Shetland Isles

Shetland is the perfect weekend break and will feel a world apart from the rest of Scotland. Situated in northern Scotland, just 190 miles from the coast of Norway, there is an undeniable Norwegian lilt to the dialect of the locals. Many of the buildings also have something Scandi about them in their colours and design.

Travel through the 15 inhabited islands (and around a hundred uninhabited ones) and see beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and wildlife everywhere. Take the inter-island ferries to the very top of the UK and the island of Unst where you can walk through Hermaness National Park and see flocks of birds (Gannets, Puffins, and Kittiwakes to name a few), so many it will take your breath away, nestled in the cliffs and swirling through the sky in a cloud of white and grey.

If you are visiting Shetland with kids then don’t miss the chance to steer a replica Viking ship situated on Unst, amongst all the Viking remains, so many of which have been discovered on Shetland. From seal spotting on a boat trip to Noss to watching baby otters play on the beaches, the wildlife on Shetland is everywhere and a real sight to behold.

Don’t miss the foodie revolution in the main town of Lerwick though. Here there are some fantastic restaurants serving both local and international fare which are well worth taking the time to enjoy.

Finally when visiting the islands don’t miss a chance to see the beautiful Shetland ponies in the place where they are really at home. There’s so much to see in Shetland you’ll visit for a weekend and then have to plan a longer trip.

Contribution from Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

CAIRNGORM

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Cairngorms National Park (Travel Addict)

Cairngorms National Park is an incredible destination for a weekend in Scotland with much to offer – from distilleries to woodland hikes, to charming villages and gorgeous castles. The main draw, however, is the absolutely gorgeous scenery and nature throughout the Cairngorms, with incredible hikes for nature lovers. Whisky lovers will also enjoy the several distilleries where you can mix and match the type of travel or come back a second time for something new and different.

The inherent beauty of the landscape within the Cairngorms is what draws nearly two million guests a year. Its stunning landscapes capture the heart and soul of visitors with the dramatic peaks of mountains and the hillsides covered in heather and thistle. Even just the drive through the Cairngorms, either through the western A9 route or the more rural A93 route are worth the visit.

There is much to do, see, and experience throughout the Cairngorms that it is hard to choose favourites but a few highlights would be:

  • Whisky and chocolate tasting at Dalwhinnie Distillery
  • Walk to Burn o’Vat in Muir of Dinnet
  • Visit the residence of the Queen at Balmoral Castle
  • Distillery tour at Royal Lochnagar Distillery
  • Learn about local history at Braemar Castle
  • Spot the castle on an island in Loch en Eilein
  • Experience the grandeur of Blair Castle
  • Climb Ben Macdui, the second-highest peak in the UK

Where to stay? There are a variety of options but to truly experience the highlands (at a reasonable price) you need to stay at the charming Dalmunzie Castle Hotel.

Contribution and Photo from Jamie of Travel Addict

ST. ANDREWS

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - St. Andrews (Beeloved City)

Located only 1h30 from Edinburgh in southeast Scotland, St Andrews is an excellent destination if you are looking for a weekend break in Scotland.

The town was made famous in the past few years because it is the place where Prince William and Kate Middleton met when they were in university. Their university, St Andrews University, is in the town centre and is a beautiful building that you can visit for free! Regardless of this connection with the royal family, St Andrews is a beautiful town, packed with history.

The main attraction is St Andrews Castle found perched on the top of a cliff. The ruins of the castle are a great place to visit if you love history and want to soak up the beautiful ocean views! Another landmark worth seeing is the St Andrews Cathedral.

St Andrews is also a good place for outdoor activities in Scotland. There are a lot of walks in the area, including the stunning Fife coastal path. And, if you are travelling with a dog, you are in for a treat! Or at least your fur baby is! The beaches in St Andrews are stunning. If you go in the morning, when the tide is low, you can enjoy a long, leisurely walk.

The Keys Bar, on Market Street, is an authentic Scottish pub where you can go for lunch or dinner. They serve typical Scottish food and delicious fish and chips. It was also awarded the best whisky bar in Scotland in 2017 so if you fancy giving a go to Scotland’s national drink, that’s the place to do it!

For the full Scottish experience, stay at the Greyfriars Inn. It’s a pub with a few hotel rooms upstairs. The location is ideal and the staff very friendly.

Contribution and Photo from Pauline of Beeloved City

GLENAPP CASTLE

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Glennapp Castle (Advetures with Ensuite)

For a romantic weekend break not much beats staying at a luxurious Scottish castle. And the best place to stay is Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, south of Glasgow.

The hotel has 17 lavish bedrooms, atmospheric common rooms, and well-kept grounds. There are two dining options – a 3 or 6-course tasting menu in the main castle or a la carte within the glasshouse, a chic new addition to the property within the walled garden. You can easily spend a couple of days here never leaving the grounds, but there are a few other sights in southern Scotland that should not be missed.

Ailsa Craig, the half-circle-shaped island, can be seen from many of the rooms at the hotel. It is famous for mining granite used for the best curling stones in the world as well as its rich birdlife. Boat trips can be arranged from the small harbour town of Girvan.

Other attractions are Culzean Castle, a vast and opulent building. In addition to its fabulous interior décor, it has a large garden and deer park. Culzean Castle has a link with President Eisenhower who visited four times. He was given the use of the top floor apartment for his life as a thank you for the American assistance during the Second World War.

Further south lies Portpatrick, Corsewall Lighthouse, and Bladnoch Distillery. Portpatrick is the prettiest village in the area and has several restaurants and cafes. For something a bit more unusual, Corsewall Lighthouse is not just a working lighthouse, it is also a restaurant and hotel.

Surrounded by rolling green hills, what the scenery around the Glenapp lacks compared to the more dramatic scenery further north, it more than makes up for with its luxury and friendly staff.

Contribution and Photo from Kristin of Adventures with Ensuite

KELSO

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Kelso (The Silver Nomad)

For a relaxing weekend getaway in Scotland, Kelso is a great place to visit. A small market town in the Borders in the southeast of Scotland, Kelso is full of interesting independent shops.

Kelso boasts two castles to visit –  Floors Castle, the stunning 18th-century castle, an estate with walled gardens to wander around and the ruins of Roxburgh Castle which sit on a hill opposite overlooking the River Teviot. The ruins of the 12th-century Kelso Abbey are from the same time as Roxburgh Castle and are one of the most spectacular examples of Romanesque architecture in Scotland.

Just outside of Kelso is Smailholm Tower, which gives an insight into life in the 15th-century and offers magnificent views over the surrounding countryside. The old railway line between Kelso and Roxburgh is paved and makes a pleasant walk as well as paths near the Rivers Tweed and Teviot.

All the coffee shops and restaurants in Kelso are independent. Seasons Coffee Shop and Café U in Roxburgh Street are both friendly places for coffee and a spot of lunch. Try Cobbles Restaurant just off the Square for elevated pub food using local produce and across the way try one of Becattelli artisan ice creams including some delicious vegan ice creams.

For a bit of luxury, a stay at the Schloss Roxburghe is recommended with its own championship golf course, spa, fishing, clay pigeon shooting, and beautiful grounds. Or, if you prefer to stay in town, there are a range of place to stay including the Cross Keys Hotel or a selection of self-catering Diverso apartments.

Horse racing is another draw to Kelso with the Kelso Racecourse holding National Hunt races from September through to May. And, on the third Saturday of every month, the Square is taken over for the Farmers’ Market with stalls selling locally raised beef, cheeses, breads, cakes, and plants.

Contribution and Photo from Larch of The Silver Nomad

EDINBURGH

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Edinburgh

A weekend in Edinburgh is simply not enough, but that just means you will have to come back for a second weekend or more to see more of the amazing sights of Scotland’s capital city!

First-time visitors to the city will no doubt find plenty to do on the Royal Mile, a one-mile-long route between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyrood House.

At the top of the Royal Mile, you’ll find Edinburgh Castle which dates from the 11th-century and has been a royal home, a military barracks, and a prison. Visitors can see the Scottish crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny, explore the Royal Palace and National War Museum and see the enormous Mons Meg gun. At 13:00 each day, the one o clock gun is fired which used to be used by ships in the Firth of Forth to set their maritime clocks.

At the bottom of the Royal Mille, you can visit Holyrood Palace which is the official residence of the Queen in Scotland. You can explore staterooms, the chamber of Mary, Queen of Scots, the throne room, and more. The ruins of Holyrood Abbey are well worth a look just next door to the Palace.

Elsewhere along the Royal Mile, visitors will find museums, a camera obscura, churches and you can even explore the history of Edinburgh underground with a tour of the Blair Street Underground Vaults. Visitors in August can enjoy the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, and all year round you can learn about Scotland’s most famous export – whisky – at the Scotch Whisky Experience.

Off the Royal Mile, you can climb 287 steps of the Scott Monument for a great view, have a coffee in the Elephant House, where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter, or hike up to the famous Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park for expansive views of the city. There is just so much to see and do in Edinburgh!

INVERNESS

Weekend Breaks in Scotland - Inverness

A great weekend getaway in Scotland is visiting the city of Inverness located in the Scottish Highlands which is seen as the capital of this region. The city is not that large, but it is really worth visiting. Moreover, Inverness is the northernmost city of the country and is a lovely city with a rich history.

Inverness is the perfect place for a city break and there is so much to see and do. There are many historic landmarks in the city, such as Inverness Castle which features Shakespeare’s play, Macbeth!

Another great thing to do is to go to the covered Victorian Market, in the heart of the city, where you can see stores that sell a variety of products. Also, if you stroll through the streets you can see remarkable architecture. You can also visit one of the art galleries of the city, such as the Castle Gallery or Scottish Flair Art Gallery, both of which get great reviews.

Besides the city itself, you should not miss a visit to Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age circular chamber tomb, or the famous Loch Ness. Both are just outside Inverness and are great places to discover nature surrounding the city.

Because the city is not that large, you can get anywhere from anywhere so anywhere in the city centre is a great place to stay. If you are hungry, check out one of the best restaurants in the city – Cheese & Tomatin. This is an inexpensive pizza place that serves delicious pizzas that taste as if they were made in Italy!

Contribution from Dymphe of Dymabroad

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