Find Book Heaven in Armchair Books

Armchair books is a second hand bookshop based at 72 and 74 West Port, just above the Grassmarket. It has all types of books crammed in from floor to ceiling along little corridors. Lose yourself as you browse through the maze of interesting old books. Look out for a collie names Struan who is the shop mascot.

Edinburgh Walking Tour

Edinburgh Guided Tour gives you a unique insight into the history, architecture and famous historical characters of our beautiful city. Our two main guides are Stuart and Richard Usher who are the direct descendants of Andrew Usher who was ‘The father of the modern Scottish whisky industry’.

Don’t miss the hidden gem of Dean Village

Around a 10 minute walk from Princes Street and the Water of Leith is this most amazing little village with cobbled streets, lovely old and historic buildings and beautiful views along the river. An oasis of calm in the city, it’s a great place to spend some time.  Nearby you can find the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and also Dean Gallery.

Soak up the vibrant bustling atmosphere of the Grassmarket in one of its outdoor bistros

The Grassmarket is an ideal place to eat, drink, shop and take in the atmosphere of the historic part of the Old Town. You will find it behind the Castle not far from the Royal Mile.   There are Scottish, French and Italian bistros and lots of little independent shops selling unique Scottish gifts. After some lunch why not head to the top of Candlemaker Row to see the famous Greyfriers Bobby statue or Victoria Street’s colourful shop fronts that make it one of Edinburgh's most photographed locations.

Investigate the neo-classical architecture of the New Town

The New Town was actually built in the 18th century and incorporates neo-classical style buildings with tall ceilings and decorative finishes. It’s a great area to walk around and admire the neo-classical and Georgian period architecture, you will find St Andrews Square at one end of George Street and Charlotte Square at the other. Edinburgh’s Princes Street is a lovely place to enjoy a day shopping with its beautiful gardens running alongside it and the castle high up overlooking it. There is a wide choice of shops from the luxury historic Jenners to modern day Apple store, boutique shops and high street stores like M & S. There is no shortage of places to stop and eat and of course the gardens are just across the road if you feel like a restful open air lunch beneath the castle. You can even take in a bit more history with a visit to Scott Monument at the east side of Princes Street Gardens.

Shop, eat and enjoy the gardens in Princes Street

Edinburgh’s Princes Street is the start of the New Town and a lovely place to enjoy a day shopping with its beautiful gardens running alongside it and the castle high up overlooking it. There is a wide choice of shops from the luxury historic Jenners to modern day Apple store, boutique shops and high street stores like M & S. There is no shortage of places to stop and eat and of course the gardens are just across the road if you feel like a restful open air lunch beneath the castle. You can even take in a bit more history with a visit to Scott Monument at the east side of Princes Street Gardens.  

Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat

If it’s panoramic and breathtaking views you are after, the summit of Arthur’s Seat offers one of the best vantage points over the city. A prime pick for a walking adventure, you don’t have to venture out of the city, just follow one of the many trails up this 800-foot extinct volcano. Be warned, the route may be short, but it is challenging.

Water of Leith

Many of us look for peace and tranquillity as we walk and if this is the case, look no further than the 12-mile Water of Leith walkway. Leaving the city behind, you can leave or join this walk at any point along its stretch. If you do only a short section of it, opt for the beauty and charm or the route from Stockbridge to Dean Village. The twists and turns of the walkway at this stretch will take through the landmarks of St Bernard’s Well and the impressive Dean Bridge.

Blackford Hill and the Braid Hills

Edinburgh is a city surrounded by hills and like Arthur’s Seat, Blackford Hill is a short walk to the top but offers a different perspective on the city. This walk will see you admire the vista over towards Arthur’s Seat with the mighty Blackford Hills close by if you fancy exploring further. On a clear day, you can see over to Fife, and other famous sights such as the River Forth with its road and rail bridges spanning its width.

Union Canal

Sunshine dazzles on winter, in winter or summer, and a gentle stroll along the Union Canal is an ideal way to spend a day in Edinburgh. With fascinating pockets of industrial heritage to discover along the way, there are also the brightly coloured canal barges and boats to admire. Feed the ducks too!

Dalkeith Country Park

Open from 7 am to 7 pm, a day pass to Dalkeith Country Park costs £1 but offers a range of walks through woodland. Just south of the city, there are many routes to explore and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. For an easy, 20-minute walk, choose the Wildernesse Walk, great for buggies, wheelchairs and bikes. Likewise, the Lugtonhaugh Walk has a surfaced path.

Scald Law

At 19,000 feet (around 579 metres), Scald Law is the highest peak in the Pentlands and presents the walking with a more challenging hike. The route starts at Flotterstone, continues past Turnhouse Hill, Carnethy Hill, and East and West Kip. 

Allermuir Hill

The nearest Pentlands summit to the city, this walk of just under 4 miles will see you ascend 385 metres, giving you yet more fantastic views of Edinburgh. It may sound an easy walk, but the 3 to 4-hour walk can be a little tricky in places, a challenge for inexperienced walkers. Open to the weather, there are parts of the route that are exposed but on a clear day, with good weather forecast, it is worth the effort.

Cramond Island

Fancy something a little different? This walk to and from Cramond Island is just the ticket. One of several islands lying in the Firth of Forth, the island is a third of a mile length, the walk to the island must be timed carefully as it can only be accessed when the tide is out.

North Berwick Law

The pretty town of North Berwick is a joy in itself but it also boasts the North Berwick Law, a hill of volcanic rock that survived the ice age. Relatively clear ground, there are parts of the walkway that can become indistinct so make sure you have a clear idea of where you are heading. Grassy pathways and a steep climb are two other challenges you’ll come across.

Bo’ness Motor Museum

Opened in 2004, the museum houses all kinds of classic cars with interesting stories to tell, from family cars of the 50s, 60s and 70s, as well as a collection of James Bond memorabilia. But for the Harry Potter fan, this is a must-visit as it is here you will find Ron’s Ford Anglia from the Chamber of Secrets. If you visit at the right time, you might be in with a chance of admiring Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang too!

JK Rowling’s Handprints

JK Rowling said of the honour that it was a mark of how much Edinburgh was home, a city where she spent ‘many, many hours writing in its cafes’. With the imprint of her ‘keyboard chipped fingernails’ and her ‘pen-induced friction callous’ commemorated in the city, you will find her this award in the pavement on the north side of the Quadrangle at the City Chambers.    

Potterow Port

Ever wondered how Rowling came up with the name Harry Potter? Although she has never said, die-hard fans suggest that Potterow Port was the inspiration behind Harry’s last name. JK Rowling is thought to have passed through this place many times, maybe it was the inspiration…

Victoria Street

Locals, visitors and Harry Potter fans flock here and no wonder. The beauty of the curving cobbled street doesn’t go unnoticed and the many independent shops are to be celebrated too. Built between 1829 and 1834, this street is, as you would expect, is steeped in a history all of its own, with the Harry Potter mania adding to this rather than detracting from it. The inspiration behind Diagon Alley in the story, spot the similarities between the shops on the street and Aha Ha Ha joke shop and Diagon House.

George Heriot’s School

Hogwarts was the school that Harry Potter and his fellow wizards attended, its towers and turrets synonymous with the story. George Heriot’s School bears an uncanny resemblance. Rowling’s children attended George Heriot’s school, a private co-education school that also has a house system, just like Hogwarts – although the houses at Hogwarts of Ravenclaw, Slytherin, Gryffindor and Hufflepuff are not to be found here! Enjoy its magnificent architecture and for a minute or two, the magic of it too.

The Elephant House

Known as the birthplace of Harry Potter, this is the café where JK Rowling wrote the first books of the popular series. And she wasn’t the only writer to find the backroom of this café that overlooks Edinburgh Castle a place that stirred the imagination. Fellow authors Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall-Smith also found it conducive to their creativity too. Whilst here, you could drop into Spoon, another café where JK Rowling spent time writing and ‘saving money on her home heating bill’. The Elephant House is open from early morning until 10 pm most days.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Start your Harry Potter tour at a place that many consider to be one of the most haunted places in the country, Greyfriars’s Kirkyard. For Harry Potter author JK Rowling, however, it gave her the space and calmness she needed to gather her thoughts as she walked. She also ‘borrowed’ some of the names from the gravestones for her characters, including Thomas Riddell (the name of Lord Voldemort although spelt slightly differently), and Elizabeth Moodie (Mad-Eye Moody) and Minerva McGonagall (Professor William McGonagall).

Gilmerton Cove

Gilmerton Cove is a series of underground passageways and chambers hand-carved from sandstone located beneath the streets of Gilmerton, an ex-mining village, now a southeastern suburb of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Old Calton Cemetery

The Old Calton Burial Ground is a graveyard at Calton Hill, in Edinburgh, Scotland, to the north-east of the city centre. The burial ground was opened in 1718, and is the resting place of several notable Scots, including philosopher David Hume, scientist John Playfair, rival publishers William Blackwood and Archibald Constable, and clergyman Dr Robert Candlish. It is also the site of the Political Martyrs' Monument, an obelisk erected to the memory of a number of political reformers, and Scotland's American Civil War Memorial.

Rosslyn Castle

Roslin Castle (sometimes spelt Rosslyn) is a partially ruined castle near the village of Roslin in Midlothian, Scotland. It is located around 9 miles south of Edinburgh, on the north bank of the North Esk, only a few hundred metres from the famous Rosslyn Chapel.

Craigmillar Castle

Craigmillar Castle is a ruined medieval castle in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is three miles (4.8 km) south-east of the city centre, on a low hill to the south of the modern suburb of Craigmillar. The Preston family of Craigmillar, the local feudal barons, began building the castle in the late 14th century and building works continued through the 15th and 16th centuries. In 1660 the castle was sold to Sir John Gilmour, Lord President of the Court of Session, who made further alterations. The Gilmours left Craigmillar in the 18th century, and the castle fell into ruin. It is now in the care of Historic Environment Scotland as a scheduled monument.^[1]

George Heriot's School

George Heriot's School is a Scottish independent primary and secondary school on Lauriston Place in the Old Town of Edinburgh, Scotland, with over 1600 pupils, 155 teaching staff and 80 non-teaching staff.^[2] It was established in 1628 as George Heriot's Hospital, by bequest of the royal goldsmith George Heriot,^[3] and opened in 1659.

Take a stroll around the Meadows

After the dank of the underground vaults, enjoy the fresh air in the large public park, The Meadows. Enjoy a picnic on the vast open grassland of this beautiful park. Enjoy the tree-lined paths, watch sports on the tennis courts and recreational sports pitches.

Visit Holyrood Palace

The Palace of Holyroodhouse stands at the end of the Royal Mile and is the official Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth. Explore its state apartments, and the elegance of the 12th century Holyrood Abbey. Take the audio tour with you into the gardens too, surely the place of many a hushed conversation between courtiers. Check the latest exhibitions at the gallery too, a must for art lovers.

Drop in at St. Giles’ Cathedral

A third of the way down the Royal Mile, drop into St Giles’ Cathedral. Dedicated to Saint Giles, patron saint of Edinburgh, it is also known as High Kirk of Edinburgh, a title far older than the word cathedral.  

Mary King's Close

Mary King's Close is a historic close located under buildings on the Royal Mile, in the historic Old Town area of Edinburgh, Scotland. It took its name from one Mary King, a merchant burgess who resided on the Close in the 17th century.^[1][2] The close was partially demolished and buried due to the building of the Royal Exchange in the 18th century, and later closed to the public for many years. The area became shrouded in myths and urban legends; tales of hauntings and murders abounded.^[3][4]

Princess Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens is a public park in the centre of Edinburgh, Scotland, in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. The Gardens were created in two phases in the 1770s and 1820s following the long draining of the Nor Loch and building of the New Town, beginning in the 1760s. The loch, situated on the north side of the town, was originally an artificial creation forming part of its medieval defences and made expansion northwards difficult. The water was habitually polluted from sewage draining downhill from the Old Town. In 1846 the railway was built in the valley to connect the Edinburgh-Glasgow line at Haymarketwith the new northern terminus of the North British line from Berwick-upon-Tweed at Waverley Station.^[1]

Scott Monument

The Scott Monument is a Victorian Gothic monument to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. It is the largest monument to a writer in the world.^[1] It stands in Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, opposite the Jenners department store on Princes Street and near to Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station, which is named after Scott's Waverley novels.

Carton Hill

There are a few places to start the ascent but if it’s the best view you are looking for take the one from Waterloo Place. From the top you can see all around Edinburgh old and new, Holyrood Palace, the Firth of Forth and Arthur’s Seat. If you want to see the view without having to climb the hill you can drive to the top and access the view from Royal Terrace. There are a number of historic and interesting buildings on the hill including the Athenian acropolis, Nelson’s Monument and two Observatories. Why not descend the hill on the North side ending up in the grand Georgian street of Blenheim Place.

Grassmarket

The Grassmarket is a historic market place and an event space in the Old Town of Edinburgh, Scotland. In relation to the rest of the city it lies in a hollow, well below surrounding ground levels.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Founded in 1670, the Royal Botanic Garden is the second oldest botanic garden in Britain. It is a physic garden, a blend of herbs and plants for medicinal use. But it hasn’t always been here – the original gardens were moved several times.

Arthur's Seat

Arthur’s Seat is a jagged, grassy hill, rising up from the urban sprawl, a reminder of the now-extinct volcano, its last eruption was 350 million years ago. No one really knows why it is called Arthur’s Seat, although believe it is a connection between Edinburgh and King Arthur.

Journey around our world past, present and future at the National Museum of Scotland

Edinburgh Castle

Start exploring the Royal Mile at Edinburgh Castle. There has been human activity on the rock since the 2nd century with the current royal castle a 12th century addition. Allow two hours to explore the castle and its story, although you could spend much longer here.

Boston & Hawthorne

The first curiosities & oddities style venue that brings a range of food and drinks like no other. A style of eating and drinking for you to explore your taste sensation's, for a memorable experience!

The Kilted Lobster

From Lobsters & Champagne to Scottish Langoustines, Scottish Venison and Lamb, the Kilted Lobster has it all.

Nestled in the heart of Stockbridge, we're first and foremost a Seafood Restaurant serving up delicious seafood dishes but we have a social conscience too. Read all about our 'Cooking Up a Storm' Social Projects where we support through training and cooking lessons right here in the kitchen, helping people in Edinburgh.

Whiski Rooms

WHISKI Rooms restaurant and bar, with a whisky shop and whisky tasting room near Edinburgh castle overlooking the Mound in Edinburgh, famous for whisky, food, haggis, Ardbeg embassy, whisky tastings, Burns' Supper Night.

Urban Angel

Harajuki Kitchen

Harajuku Kitchen fuses traditional family recipes & fresh Asian ingredients with AA rosette level flair to create the best Japanese food in Edinburgh.

The Dogs

The Stockbridge Restaurant

The Stockbridge Restaurant is one of Edinburgh’s favourite neighbourhood dining spots. Situated in the charming area of Stockbridge, the restaurant offers exception Scottish cuisine with personal service in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Chef proprietor Jason Gallagher’s style of cooking is classical with a modern twist, whilst wife Jane runs the dining room with casual efficiency. This is the best of Scottish fine dining, without the pretension. Menus change regularly, with set and a la carte options available, using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. The Stockbridge Restaurant is open Tues – Sunday for dinner, with private dining and lunch bookings available upon arrangement. Learn More

Carlowrie Castle

Voted one of the top three venues in Europe under 200 bedrooms at The 2016 International Hotel Awards.

Spend the night in one of our nine luxurious bedrooms. All rooms are individually styled, spacious and have breathtaking views of the 32 acre castle grounds.

Eastside Byre

Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this cosy cottage in the Pentland Hills is part of a beautifully converted 18th Century farmstead near Edinburgh. The Byre is ideal for holidays but also small parties & family gatherings in the country.  

Eastside Steading

The Steading Cottage is hidden in a peaceful glen of the Pentlands Hills surrounded by rugged heather hills, long walks & spectacular views. Explore the stunning landscapes & nearby Edinburgh - or just curl up by a roaring fire in your hilltop hideaway. Originally an 18th Century hay-shed, The Steading has been lovingly converted with heaps of rural character & charm.  

Westside Woodshed

The Woodshed is a modern, architect-designed gem just 10 miles from central Edinburgh. At the end of a winding farm track, this luxury self-catering hideaway is surrounded by the rugged heather hills & glens of the Pentland Hills Regional Park.  

23 Mayfield

Edinburgh guest houses luxury bed and breakfast accommodation in Edinburgh, formerly Barony Guest House, owners formerly of Aonach Mor, close to Edinburgh shopping, Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh museums, art galleries and visitor attractions.

The Dunstane Houses

Luxurious, relaxed and unlike anywhere you’ve ever stayed before, the Dunstane Houses is a family-run boutique hotel that brings a breath of fresh Orkney air to the heart of Edinburgh.

Radisson Collection Hotel

Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh is set in the heart of the capital and the only five-star hotel on the historic Royal Mile. The hotel is 650 yards from Edinburgh Castle and 1 miles from Holyrood Park, Holyrood Palace and Princes Street. Offerings include 136 bedrooms and suites, iconic design, free Wi-Fi, on-site car parking, a contemporary restaurant, a flagship bar, a spa, a fitness centre and 3 meeting rooms.

Spend a day at Brodick Castle

Give yourself plenty of time to take in the splendour of this island castle and its surrounding gardens and country park. This is a great day out for all. Take in the amazing views over Brodick Bay, enjoy a walk in the landscaped gardens, take the family on a trail through the woodland or to see a waterfall, let the children go wild in the adventure playground, visit the countryside centre and don’t forget to look out for red squirrels and other wildlife.

Enjoy a dram of malt on a tour of the Arran Distillery

Come rain or shine a visit to this distillery is always a pleasure. The visitor centre was opened in 1997 and holds both a restaurant and a café. Both with a good selection of tasty meals and snacks on offer. The distillery is situated at the north of the island and whisky has been distilled here for over 150 years. It is open all year and offers guided tours, shop and whisky tasting. Take a tour and enjoy that free dram at the end.

Pollok House

Pollok House is the ancestral home of the Stirling Maxwell family, located in Pollok Country Park, Glasgow, Scotland. The house – built in 1752 and designed by William Adam – was gifted to the City of Glasgow in 1966 by Dame Anne Maxwell Macdonald, whose family had owned the estate for almost 700 years. It is now managed by the National Trust for Scotland and is open to the public. The house was modernised internally in 1899 by Sir Robert Rowand Anderson

Britannia Panopticon Music Hall

The oldest surviving music hall in the world, the Britannia Panopticon is open for general viewing everyday where you can learn about the buildings history, and maybe even catch a glimpse of one of the many famous music hall ghosts.   View some recent photos from the Panopticon from Instagram.      

St Aloysius Church

This stunning Catholic church was built over 100 years ago and is well worth a visit if you appreciate exceptional religious architecture.

The Necropolis

There's beauty in the oldest graves in the city, sitting in the fascinating Victorian Garden Cemetery that is The Necropolis. There's a massive 37 acres to this cemetery full of sculptures, buildings and incredible stories about the some 50,000 people laid to rest here.

The Mitchell Library

One of the biggest libraries in Glasgow, the Mitchell Library has plenty of information if you want to get stuck into Glasgows history. The building is an overlooked icon of Glasgow and is worth a visit for a better understanding of how it all began for this beautiful city.

Cresswell Lane

Right at the end of Glasgows WestEnd sits this perfect little area full of pubs, restaurants and various shops selling everything from homeware to unique boutique gifts. Vintage lovers should definitely pay a visit to this area for their retro fix.

Ashton Lane

This gorgeous cobbled backstreet in Glasgow is usually a hidden gem you would only hear about from the locals, but we're here to let you in on this incredible secret part of the city. It contains The Grosvenor which has one of the oldest cinemas in the city as well as a huge bar, along with plenty of eclectic restaurants and numerous lovely places to go for a drink.

Finnieston

To experience the coolest part of town, you have to take a trip to Finnieston in Glasgow. Here,  exceptional bars and restaurants meet the arts and only the warmest sense of community. Check out some instagram photo's from here.

Byres Road

You can't visit Glasgow without taking a walk up the most vibrant road in the entire city: Byres Road. With food from every culture, unique bars and shops selling anything you can think of, you'll definitely find something to suit your taste here, as well as plenty more to intrigue and delight the senses.

The Duke of Wellington

This iconic statue features the Duke Of Wellington on a horse and was designed by Carlo Marochetti, erected in 1844. It sits in Royal Exchange Square outside the Gallery of Modern Art and is an important display of the city's history.

Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery

The oldest museum in Scotland, the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, houses interesting items and collections such as roman artifacts, scientific instruments and ethnographic objects. Visitors can also enjoy the largest display in the world of work by James Mcneill Whistler.

Botanic Gardens

It's time to relax with a morning or afternoon in Glasgow's gorgeous Botanical Gardens. Set around the recently refurbished Kibble Palace, the gardens feature several glasshouses, plant collections, woodland areas and riverside walks.

Riverside Museum

Highlighting Glasgows industrial history, the Riverside Museum is an award-winning transport museum with over 3,000 displays, including everything from skateboards to stormtroopers. This is a hands on experience with interactive displays galore, as well as information on the companies and stories behind everything on show.

Pollok Country Park

Nature lovers will revel in the awe-inspiring natural grounds of Pollok Country Park, Glasgow's only country park. The quiet and wildlife rich sanctuary has gorgeous woodlands and intricate gardens that transform through the seasons, providing constantly changing scenery for visitors to enjoy.

Glasgow School of Art

The Glasgow School Of Art is a research centre, an educational facility and a place for true art lovers to come and explore the rich history of the school all the way from 1845. Various exciting and highly esteemed exhibitions and events also run throughout the year.

Clyde Walkway

Glasgow is said to have been built on its river, so what better way to see it from all different angles and viewpoints than by going for a walk along the River Clyde Walkway? The recommended route takes you from from West to East enabling you to see historical parts, modern parts and everything in-between.

The Lighthouse

To see the epicentre of the creative industries of Glasgow you simply have to visit The Lighthouse. As the Centre for Design & Architecture for all of Scotland, the events and exhibitions put on throughout the year showcase the very best of Scotland's creative diversity.

Gallery of Modern Art

Modern and contemporary art lovers can come and enjoy not one, not two, but three exciting showcases of modern art in its many forms. The first building, called Modern One, offers events, residencies and performances, whereas Modern Two holds Dada and Surrealist work by Edward Paolozzi. There is also a beautiful sculpture park throughout the grounds so there's plenty to enjoy whatever the weather.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

This stunning museum first opened in 1901 and is ideal for all ages.  22 phenomenal galleries filled with all sorts of art and history make for a memorable day out. No two visits will ever be the same either, with a continually changing programme of exhibitions, displays and activities on offer throughout the year.

The Gannet

The Gannet is an multi award winning Scottish restaurant in the vibrant destination of Finnieston in Glasgow. Our menus celebrate the best of Scottish produce, dictated by the rhythms of the British seasons in a stripped back and relaxed setting, and always feature seafood, meat and vegetarian options. Opening in October 2013, we have won Best Newcomer Restaurant in the Chefs in Scotland Excellence Awards 2014, Best Newcomer in The List Eating and Drinking Awards 2014 and an AA Rosette Award. We have also received reviews in The Guardian, The Sunday Herald and The Scotsman.

Brutti Compadres

Nestled in a small, secretive courtyard in the historical area of Glasgow’s Merchant City, Brutti Compadres is built on the site of the original tobacco exchange. Our cafe bar serves all day food, continental draught lagers, decent wines and fine italian coffee. We aim to provide our customers with tasty small plates of mediteranean holiday style flavours. The menu changes seasonally and we also offer daily specials from our open plan kitchen. All this served to you by naturally friendly, helpful staff in our soft industrial, mediteranean style cafe bar.

The Finnieston Bar & Restaurant

On the bustling stretch of Glasgow's Argyle Street sits a diminutive blue building, dwarfed by lofty tenements. From humble beginnings as a Drovers' Tavern c.1800, (and said to have been frequented by Rob Roy Macgregor!) a cabinet maker, a hotelier and even a dairy farmer have called its' brick walls home. Today, the building is home to The Finnieston Bar & Restaurant, serving up the very best in Scottish Seafood and Award Winning Cocktails, Champagnes and Beers. We pride ourselves on our commitment to serving only the very best of Seasonal and Sustainable Scottish Seafood, complimented by local Scottish Produce, whilst our award winning Bartenders craft exceptional cocktails featuring our carefully sourced selection of Gin.

Chaakoo Bombay Cafe

Chaakoo Bombay Cafe looks forward to taking guests back in time to experience the incredible flavours, smells and atmosphere of a classic Iranian cafe. The original Bombay Cafes, otherwise known as Irani cafes, were opened by the Persian & Iranian immigrants who came to India in the 19th Century. Irani Cafes were popular for Irani Chai tea and a melting pot menu of Classic Iranian grill dishes and Classic Bombay dishes. They were frequented and endorsed by students, taxi drivers, ladies of the night and lawyers akin, as the world passed by outside. In the 1950s, 350 Irani Cafes existed and now today, only 25. At Chaakoo, we have strived to keep the feel and experience as similar as possible, complete with a little added extra! Enjoy your visit, whether you pop in for a Chai, Bombay Slinger or Chaatinar. THERE ARE NO RULES!" Learn More

A’Challtainn

A’Challtainn (pronounced A Cawl Tain, Gaelic for Calton, meaning “the hazel wood”) is a restaurant and cocktail bar in the heart of BAaD at the Barras. Serving the finest Scottish fish and shellfish, alongside carefully crafted meat and vegetarian dishes. We here at A’Challtainn pride ourselves on our sustainably sourced seafood produce. Our local suppliers utilise and their expert knowledge and sustainable practice to bring you the best offerings of our Scottish Seas. Learn More

Hanoi Bike Shop

At the Hanoi Bike Shop we do things simply, every plate is made from scratch and sourced as locally as possible. From the freshly made dressings and sauces to the hand-pressed organic tofu made in-house every morning. Nestled away in the heart of the West End, the Hanoi Bike Shop brings the spirit of Vietnam to Glasgow. Our vibrant, healthy menu has been designed for you to share throughout the day, from lunch time until late, seven days week. Learn More

Brel

Imagine canopies of fairy lights, a beautiful heated patio for year-round al fresco dining, a cosy conservatory with a roaring stove to coorie up, delicious chocolate fondue to share, over 60 awesome craft beers from around the world, Pimms on tap, a magical private party room overlooking Asthon Lane,  our famous pots of mussels, over 21 amazing Scottish Gins and Glasgow's most beautiful beer garden. And that's just the start.

One Devonshire Gardens

Within a tree-lined Victorian terrace, this 5-star boutique hotel is located in the fashionable West End, only 30 minutes' drive from Loch Lomond. Its oak-panelled bistro serves fresh, Scottish cuisine and over 300 wines.

Blythswood Square

Blythswood Square is in Glasgow city centre, a short walk from Sauchiehall Street. It has been restored to offer luxury rooms with free Wi-Fi and beautiful architecture.

Loch Achtriochtan

This is a stunning lochan just off the A82 with its own car park where you can get some great views and pictures. The car park is at the end of the lochan on the Glencoe side. This is not too far from where the West Highland way crosses over the A82 on its route along the River Etive so look out for it if you decide to make a detour to Glencoe or Ballachoulish.

Beinn Dorain

Beinn Dorain is the unmissable, awesome mountain that you see from the A82 past Tyndrum. It reaches 3530 ft and has steep grassy slopes in the shape of a pyramid. You don’t need to be a climber to take pleasure from and be inspired by Beinn Dorain. Look out for it on your route north or perhaps look up the poem by Duncan Ban MacIntyre who used to work as a gamekeeper in the area.

Aonach Eagach

Only for an experienced hill-walker, scrambler and mountaineer, the narrow Aonach Eagach ridge joins the two Munros of Meall Dearg and Sgor nam Fiannaidh and is one of the most famous ridges in Scotland.  This is a very dangerous climb with steep slopes and cliffs on both sides.

Climb the Pap of Glencoe

A familiar landmark in the area.  Starting point is a forest track on the edge of Glencoe village with parking available. The climb presents a rough, steep, boggy but rewarding hill walk with superb views all the way and a sensational panorama at the top. The final section near the crest is rocky.

Hill walk all around Buachaille Etive Beag

The hill walk route goes all around Buachaille Etive Beag (means Small Herdsman of the Etive).  Starting point is near a car park off the A82.  Route includes stream crossings which may not be possible if the stream is in spate.  Great views along the way, in particular of Buachaille Etive Mor (the great herdsman).

Escape to The Lost Valley

There’s a car park off the A82, facing the three sisters of Beinn Fhada. The walking route goes up Coire Gabhail.  Wonderful scenery throughout. Flowing water and waterfalls.  The place was also one of the escape routes used by the MacDonalds of Glencoe fleeing the infamous massacre in 1692 in which thirty-eight men, women and children perished. The path is mostly straightforward but involves crossing a burn, which is okay except when there’s been heavy rain with the stream is in spate and you can’t see the stepping-stones.  There’s also some scrambling over rocks involved.

Visit the Glencoe Folk Museum at the Village of Glencoe

The village lies at the Loch Leven end of the Glencoe Valley. The place is well known for its spectacular waterfalls and superb walking routes with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.  The Glencoe Folk Museum is situated in the village and has displays of local interest and heritage including the infamous 1692 Glencoe Massacre.

Glencoe Lochan

This is a real find if you are looking for a lovely walk with family or friends. You will find it by going over the River Coe Bridge just after Glencoe village. It has its own car park and there are three well marked trails to choose from – the red one is suitable for all including buggies and wheelchairs and has picnic tables and benches along the route. It’s a beautiful setting with the loch being surrounded by mountains and a forest of conifers.

Drive to Glen Etive on the route featured in ‘Skyfall’

The road that takes you to Glen Etive is a single track road with passing places.  The road is less than 15 miles long ends at a small car park and disused pier at the head of Loch Etive but it leads you to some of the most stunning views you can find including the majestic Buacchaile Etive Mor mountain ridge.  The route featured in a memorable scene from the Bond movie “Skyfall” with Daniel Craig.

Picnic at Rowardennan

Rowardennan is situated in the shadow of Ben Lomond and its tranquillity and magnificent views make it a perfect spot for a loch-side picnic.  It is also a popular location for hill walking, climbing, fishing and water sports. If you prefer more leisurely activities it has a small beach where you can enjoy the views or even a wee paddle in the water. There is a hotel there with a boat slipway and moorings and the village is also on the West Highland Way.  

Inverarnan Canal

This short waterway was completed in 1844 and connected the Coaching Inn at Inverarnan via the River Falloch to the head of Loch Lomond.  The, now disused, canal allowed Loch Lomond steamers to navigate 3.3km beyond the top of the Loch carrying passengers, mail and goods to and from Balloch at the southern end of the Loch.  Stagecoaches would take passengers from the Inn to and from various points in Argyll and the North.

Loch Tulla

Loch Tulla is a small loch at grid reference NN293428 near Bridge of Orchy and Glen Coe in Scotland and in the central highlands. It contains salmon some of which are bred locally.

Buachaille Etive Mòr

Buachaille Etive Mòr generally known to climbers simply as The Buachaille, is a mountain at the head of Glen Etive in the Highlands of Scotland. Its pyramidal form, as seen from the A82 road when travelling towards Glen Coe, makes it one of the most recognisable mountains in Scotland, and one of the most depicted on postcards and calendars.

Conic Hill

Conic Hill sits on the eastern side of Loch Lomond on the Highland Boundary Fault near Balmaha.  The 360m climb is along a well-trodden path which regularly rewards the climber with great views particularly over Loch Lomond and its islands.  

Aonach Eagach

The Aonach Eagach is a rocky ridge lying to the north of Glen Coe in the Scottish Highlands, boasting two Munro summits. In length the full ridge continues for 10 km from the Pap of Glencoe at the west to the eastern end at the Devil's Staircase. The central section, some 2 km in length, is very rocky and the route along it requires scrambling ability. The slopes to each side are extremely dangerous, with steep grass and scree slopes hiding even steeper slopes which end in cliffs on both north and south sides of the ridge.

Buachaille Etive Beag Circular

Buachaille Etive Beag is a mountain located between Glen Coe and Glen Etive, on the edge of Rannoch Moor in the Scottish Highlands. Viewed from the south in Glen Etive it forms a twin with Buachaille Etive Mòr (the 'Great Herdsman of Etive'), from which it is separated by a bealach at a height of about 480 metres.

The Lost Valley

Beinn Fhada is separated from Gearr Aonach by a glen known as Coire Gabhail. This can translate to Glen of Capture, however the glen is more normally known as the Hidden or Lost Valley, as it has a wide flat area concealed from Glen Coe by the landslip which blocked the entrance and allowed a loch to form. The valley was used by Clan Macdonald to hide their livestock from raiders, or hide cattle they themselves had stolen. The steep rough path up from Glen Coe skirts a wooded ravine, and is a popular short walk (around 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) in total), though it involves a river crossing and some rocky sections.

Kings House Hotel

The Kings House Hotel is a remote inn and hotel at the eastern end of Glen Coe at the junction with Glen Etive in the Scottish Highlands. It is sited in an isolated position, about 2 km to the east of the head of the glen towards Rannoch Moor, and faces towards Buachaille Etive Mor which is very popular with rock climbers. It is called the King's House because British troops were billeted here following the Battle of Culloden in 1746.

Glen Etive

Glen Etive is a glen in the Highlands of Scotland. The River Etive rises on the peaks surrounding Rannoch Moor, with several tributary streams coming together at the Kings House Hotel, at the head of Glen Coe. From the Kings House, the Etive flows for about 18 km, reaching the sea loch, Loch Etive. The river and its tributaries are popular with whitewater kayakers and at high water levels it is a test piece of the area and a classic run.

Inveraray Castle 

The castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell and is situated close to Inveraray, the traditional county town of Argyll.  The town sits at the top of Loch Fyne on its western shore and was founded in 1745 by the Duke of Argyll. There are lots to see and do in and around the castle and the town.

Loch Katrine and the SS Sir Walter Scott

Surrounded by magnificent Trossachs’ landscapes, Loch Katrine’s crystal clear waters are home to an abundance of wildlife and there is a 21 km walking and cycle path from Trossachs Pier to Stronalacher.  Bikes can be hired from next to the pier where there is also a bar and restaurant.  The loch is also home to world famous steamship the “Sir Walter Scott” which was built in 1900 by Denny’s in Dumbarton.  The vessel was transported in sections by barge and horse drawn cart and re-assembled at Loch Katrine. The steamship sails daily from Trossachs Pier at the southern end of the Loch to Stronachlachar.  You can also book a place for your bicycle if you wish to enjoy the magnificent views from the vessel on the outward leg and cycle back to Trossachs Pier.

Queen Elizabeth Forest Park

The park stretches from Loch Lomond to the Trossachs and includes loads of places to go and things to do.  Magnificent views at any time of the year, wonderful walks, off-road cycling, fishing, boat trips to name but a few activities which are available in the area.

Dumbarton Castle

One of the oldest castles in Scotland, this historic stronghold sits upon a volcanic plug in the Firth of Clyde and was at the heart of the ancient kingdom of Strathclyde. The castle is steeped in history with notable past residents including the infant Mary Queen of Scots who stayed there for several months before fleeing to France in 1548. Examples of 18th century military artillery batteries can be seen in the castle and, from the top, a spectacular panoramic view of the River Clyde and the mountains including the famous Ben Lomond.

Falls of Dochart

These spectacular falls can be found in Killin at the western end of Loch Tay.  Next to the falls you’ll find the Breadalbane Folklore Centre, where you can learn about the local history, within the adjacent watermill where you can also see a working mill wheel.  

Loch Chon

You’ll find Loch Chon off the B829 road between Kinlochard and Inversnaid and it is a good location for picnics, off-road cycling and walks.  It is also popular with anglers with brown trout, perch and pike fishing allowed from the bank between March and October.  Legend has it that the loch also has a resident kelpie or water spirit together with a large population of faeries!  

Duke's Pass

Many breathtaking views await you as you travel through the Duke’s Pass. This seven mile section of the A821 stretches from Aberfoyle to Kilmahog. The road was built in the 19th Century by the Duke of Montrose and the stunning scenery it offers has been enjoyed over the years by tourists travelling to the Trossachs. The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre at the southern end of the route offers you the chance of viewing wild Ospreys via their live feed nest-cams during the summer.

The Duke’s Pass Scenic Drive

The Duke’s Pass Scenic Drive

The Grog & Gruel

Cattle & Creel Steakhouse and Seafood Bar

Cattle & Creel Steakhouse and Seafood Bar, Restaurant in Helensburgh, showcasing the best of all that's Scotland's natural larder has to offer.

AN CAISTEAL LODGE

The Lodge is situated on the banks of Loch Lomond. The Lodge and a master bedroom with en suite bathroom, two twin rooms plus a family bathroom. There is a spacious open plan living and dining area with a fully fitted kitchen.

Sunart Adventures

We are Sunart Adventures, an independently-run business offering exclusive luxury self-catering accommodation in the Scottish Highlands. Our unique cottages, nestled on the shores of Loch Sunart, have been designed with you in mind; providing all the comfort and privacy of a 5-star retreat, just without the price tag.

Glen Nevis

Our self-catering park has a fantastic location in Glen Nevis. We are right at the foot of Ben Nevis, surrounded by mountains and forest.  You will see from the photos below that we have put a lot of care into ensuring that each of our properties has generous, well maintained grounds and excellent facilities.

Knoydart Hide

Gorgeously grown-up and offering unrivalled privacy, Knoydart Hide is the perfect location for your Highland honeymoon, for lovers, friends and reconnections seeking “very special together time”. Created for those seeking under the radar luxury holiday accommodation, Knoydart Hide offers true “wow” factor.

Knockderry Country House Hotel

Situated on the banks of Loch Long, one of the magnificent sea lochs of Scotland, Knockderry Country House Hotel is a fabulous 4 Star 2 AA Rosette hotel near Loch Lomond and Helensburgh for relaxing, short breaks, weddings and small exclusive events.

Hollytree Hotel

Located at the waters edge in Scotland is the Luxurious Hollytree Hotel, Seafood Restaurant and Swimming pool complete with indoor heated swimming pool and sauna.

Lochside Follies

We have four totally different, totally unique, 4 star self catering properties just for 2 people. All have been either built or renovated by ourselves.

Enjoy the magnificent view from the top of the Devil’s Staircase

The walking route is part of the West Highland Way. Access to the walk is from Altnafeadh on the A82 between Crianlarich and Fort William. Follow the West Highland Way footpath from the parking area to the top of the Devil’s staircase that is marked by two large cairns. Once there have a breather, enjoy the magnificent views, identify a mountain or two, and then head back down to the A82.

Go Mountain Biking at the Nevis Range Mountain Experience

The Nevis Range Mountain Gondola is located on the north face of Aonach Mor near Fort William. It was built to transport skiers up to the slopes but has become a visitor attraction in its own right for skiers and non-skiers alike.  The gondola operates all year round and is used by climbers, hill walkers, mountain bikers, paragliders, hang gliders and tourists who can’t wait to see the breathtaking views and take the clear mountain air or just have a spot of lunch at the restaurant/café at the top  

Try walking one of the stages of the Great Glen Way

The route is 117km long and is divided into six stages running from Fort William to Inverness via Gairlochy, Laggan, Fort Augustus, Invermoriston and Drumnadrochit.  It follows the Great Glen fault line that divides Scotland from coast to coast, passing Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal towpaths and comprises of fairly straightforward and clearly marked paths and tracks.

View the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct

The spectacular twenty-one arch curved viaduct sits near the village of Glenfinnan and earned international fame when it featured in the Harry Potter movies.  It carries the West Highland main train line and overlooks the Glenfinnan Jacobite Monument. In addition to all year round regular trains, the Jacobite Steam Train puffs over the viaduct as it makes its way from Fort William to Glenfinnan and onwards to Mallaig during the summer months.

Take a Harry Potter ride on the Jacobite Steam Train

This popular train journey from Fort William to Mallaig is a must for all Harry Potter fans and steam train enthusiasts alike.  The train travels from the shadow of Ben Nevis and steams through some of the most spectacular views in the world, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter movies and passing Loch Shiel , the Jacobite Monument and the beautiful villages of Lochailort, Arisaig, Morar and Mallaig.  There are stops at Glenfinnan and Mallaig.

Hike to the Steall Waterfall via a wire rope bridge

The fabulous Steall waterfalls are featured in the movie “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” and can be reached via a half hour or so hike from the Nevis Gorge car park.  The hike includes rocky areas and, if you want to get close to the falls you will need to negotiate the single foot wire rope bridge with wire handrails river crossing!  You will be rewarded with beautiful views of the falls and a great place for a picnic. The scenery is breathtaking throughout and you’ll want to come back again.

Experience Ben Nevis from the mountain gondola

Scotland’s tallest mountain, the summit of Ben Nevis is at an elevation of 4,411ft above sea level. For the less experienced hikers there’s a mountain track to guide you to the top. When you get there you will be rewarded with a panorama of magnificent views, weather depending of course!  For the more experienced walkers there is the mountain’s other walking route to the top, the Car Mor Dearg Arête, which is more challenging and should only be attempted by experienced scramblers. Guided walking tours are also available where you can learn more about the mountain and views.  Another attraction at Ben Nevis is the Mountain Gondola where you can relax and drift along the north face of the Aonach Mor taking in the amazing views to an elevation of 650m.

Ardnamurchan Charters

Ardnamurchan Charters was founded in 1985 as a small family business renting out self drive boats. In 1995 we started wildlife tours with our charter boat "laurenca II", a 38' Aquastar.  

Ncn'ean Distillery

Jacobite Steam Train

The Jacobite steam train IS Hogwarts Express! And you too can take in the stunning scenery that surrounds the train as it thunders along what many consider to be the greatest railway journey in the world. Board the train at Fort William and Mallaig in the shadow of Ben Nevis, enjoying the 84-mile journey to Glenfinnan, passing Loch Morar and Loch Nevis, the deepest seawater loch. And of course, enjoy every minute of Glenfinnan Viaduct. Book a ticket here

Loch Morar

This loch in Lochaber is used as close up shots for Hogwarts Lake. Seen in numerous aerial shots, it makes its first appearance in the Prisoner of Azkaban and then is regularly featured in later films. The deepest freshwater loch in Britain, you may spot the monster that lurks beneath as there is a legend that hiding deep in its depths is the legendary monster Morag.

Black Rock Gorge

Black Rock Gorge is an impressive 120-foot-deep gorge that is simply breathtaking. As well as taking on the Hungarian Horntail dragon at Steall falls, Harry hides from it in this gorge. As well as the magic of Harry Potter, it is thought that the gorge is haunted by Lady Balconie, a young woman trained in the black arts by her nanny who was a black witch. The reason why she haunts here is lost in folklore but, as you would expect, there are many stories and myths that attempt to explain why. Find it: Evanton, IV16

Loch Arkaig

Many films employ a technique called CGI or Computer-Generated Imagery and there was certainly plenty of additions and enhancements in the Harry Potter films. Dumbledore’s final resting place on the small island of Eilean na Moine is enhanced in the film by digitally adding Loch Arkraig, a 12 mile stretch of water in Great Glen. You’ll recognise some of the scenery here and frankly, CGI or not, there is a beautiful atmosphere here that makes it incredibly restful stop on your Harry Potter tour.   Find it: Bunarkaig, PH34 4EJ is the nearest spot to this remote loch, the walk to its shores is around 3 miles from the car park

Eilean na Moine and Loch Eilt

Eilean na Moine is a small island that in the Potter films is the final resting place of Dumbledore. It is also the place Lord Voldemort steals the Elder Wand in part 1 of the Deathly Hallows. The loch is also the place where Harry, Hermione and Ron came upon a downcast Hagrid in the Prisoner of Azkaban after learning that Buckbeak was the be put down. Again, a familiar place to avid viewers of the films. But be warned, the loch is busy and crowded at times of the year and safe stopping points on the road are few and far between. Catch the best view from the local train station.

Loch Shiel

A 17-mile long stretch of fresh water, Loch Shiel is nearly 400 feet deep. Its nature changes considerably throughout its length and it is this dramatic loch was perfect as a filming backdrop for Harry Potter. In the books and the films, it was Hogwarts’s Lake, also known as The Black Lake. As well as admiring the scenery, you can take a boat trip, perfect for examining the loch, which is just above sea level, a little closer. The area has also been the backdrop for many other films, including James Bond’s Skyfall.  

Steall Waterfall

The spectacular waterfall known variously as An Steall Bàn, Steall Waterfall or Steall Falls is situated in Glen Nevis near Fort William, Highland, Scotland. It is Scotland's second highest waterfall with a single drop of 120 metres (390 ft). The fall can be viewed from the path that runs through the Nevis Gorge, an area owned by the John Muir Trust which manages the area for its wilderness qualities. An Steall Bàn means "The White Spout" in Gaelic.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a railway viaduct on the West Highland Line in Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire, Scotland. Located at the top of Loch Shiel in the West Highlands of Scotland, the viaduct overlooks the Glenfinnan Monument and the waters of Loch Shiel.

Ben Nevis Distillery

Ben Nevis Distillery is a distillery in Scotland that distills Ben Nevis 10 Years Old and Ben Nevis 21 Years Old whisky. It is located at Lochy Bridge in Fort William and sits just at the base of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, which rises to 4,409 feet above sea level.  A coastal distillery in the Western Highlands, Ben Nevis draws its water from the Allt a’Mhuilinn which originates from two pools, Coire Leis and Coire na’Ciste. Founded in 1825 as an independent enterprise, it has been owned by Nikka Whisky Distilling of Tokyo, Japan, since 1989.

Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way  is a long distance path in Scotland. It follows the Great Glen, running from Fort William in the west to Inverness in the east, covering 79 miles (127 kilometres). It was opened in 2002 and is one of Scotland's four Long Distance Routes. The Great Glen Way is generally walked from west to east to follow the direction of the prevailing wind. It can be walked in 5–6 days, or cycled in 2–3 days.

Nevis Range Mountain Experience

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles, located in Scotland. Standing at 1,345 metres (4,411 ft) above sea level, it is located at the western end of the Grampian Mountains in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands, close to the town of Fort William.

Jacobite Steam Train

The Jacobite is a steam locomotive-hauled tourist train service that operates over part of the West Highland Railway Line in Scotland. It has been operating under various names and with different operators every summer since 1984. It has played an important role in sustaining a scenic route.

Crannog Seafood Restaurant

Here at Crannog, we bring you the best that our local area has to offer, along with a warm Highland welcome.

The Grog & Gruel

Sunart Adventures

We are Sunart Adventures, an independently-run business offering exclusive luxury self-catering accommodation in the Scottish Highlands. Our unique cottages, nestled on the shores of Loch Sunart, have been designed with you in mind; providing all the comfort and privacy of a 5-star retreat, just without the price tag.

Glen Nevis

Our self-catering park has a fantastic location in Glen Nevis. We are right at the foot of Ben Nevis, surrounded by mountains and forest.  You will see from the photos below that we have put a lot of care into ensuring that each of our properties has generous, well maintained grounds and excellent facilities.

Knoydart Hide

Gorgeously grown-up and offering unrivalled privacy, Knoydart Hide is the perfect location for your Highland honeymoon, for lovers, friends and reconnections seeking “very special together time”. Created for those seeking under the radar luxury holiday accommodation, Knoydart Hide offers true “wow” factor.

Hollytree Hotel

Located at the waters edge in Scotland is the Luxurious Hollytree Hotel, Seafood Restaurant and Swimming pool complete with indoor heated swimming pool and sauna.

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan (Scottish Gaelic: Eilean Donnain) is a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, in the western Highlandsof Scotland. A picturesque castle that frequently appears in photographs, film and television dominates the island, which lies about 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) from the village of Dornie. Since the castle's restoration in the early 20th century, a footbridge has connected the island to the mainland.

Fairy Glen

Inverlochy Castle

Inverlochy Castle is a ruined, 13th-century castle near Inverlochy and Fort William, Highland, Scotland. The site of two battles, the castle remains largely unchanged since its construction. It is now in the care of Historic Scotland.

Nevis Range Mountain Experience

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles, located in Scotland. Standing at 1,345 metres (4,411 ft) above sea level, it is located at the western end of the Grampian Mountains in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands, close to the town of Fort William.

Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way  is a long distance path in Scotland. It follows the Great Glen, running from Fort William in the west to Inverness in the east, covering 79 miles (127 kilometres). It was opened in 2002 and is one of Scotland's four Long Distance Routes. The Great Glen Way is generally walked from west to east to follow the direction of the prevailing wind. It can be walked in 5–6 days, or cycled in 2–3 days.

Ben Nevis Distillery

Ben Nevis Distillery is a distillery in Scotland that distills Ben Nevis 10 Years Old and Ben Nevis 21 Years Old whisky. It is located at Lochy Bridge in Fort William and sits just at the base of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, which rises to 4,409 feet above sea level.  A coastal distillery in the Western Highlands, Ben Nevis draws its water from the Allt a’Mhuilinn which originates from two pools, Coire Leis and Coire na’Ciste. Founded in 1825 as an independent enterprise, it has been owned by Nikka Whisky Distilling of Tokyo, Japan, since 1989.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a railway viaduct on the West Highland Line in Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire, Scotland. Located at the top of Loch Shiel in the West Highlands of Scotland, the viaduct overlooks the Glenfinnan Monument and the waters of Loch Shiel.

Steall Waterfall

The spectacular waterfall known variously as An Steall Bàn, Steall Waterfall or Steall Falls is situated in Glen Nevis near Fort William, Highland, Scotland. It is Scotland's second highest waterfall with a single drop of 120 metres (390 ft). The fall can be viewed from the path that runs through the Nevis Gorge, an area owned by the John Muir Trust which manages the area for its wilderness qualities. An Steall Bàn means "The White Spout" in Gaelic.

Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles, located in Scotland. Standing at 1,345 metres (4,411 ft) above sea level, it is located at the western end of the Grampian Mountains in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands, close to the town of Fort William.

Wildlife Croft

Sitting amongst indigenous trees, providing privacy and a haven, whilst still offering fantastic views over to Knoydart, stay at the tranquil Stonechat Bothy in South Skye. This secluded one bedroom, architect designed accommodation is ideal for exploring Skye, or enjoying a peaceful retreat. Wildlife is encouraged on the croft and an impressive number of birds and other wildlife have been recorded. Facilities include wood burning stove, Wifi, Sky TV, king size bed and a selection of DVDs, books and games. Dark skies in the winter are excellent for stargazing  

The Tinhouse

Tinhouse is located on the northwestern tip of the Isle of Skye, on a steeply sloping site overlooking The Minch, the body of water separating the Inner and Outer Hebrides.

An Airigh

An Airigh, a luxury self-catering retreat for two on the Isle of Skye.

The Three Chimneys

Since opening in 1985, we have embraced our remote island location in north west Scotland, to create a breathtaking destination experience for our guests. Our genuine passion for creating and serving the very best of Scottish food with warm and friendly professionalism, has built our international reputation and been recognised with many awards over three decades.

Dunscaith Castle

Unfortunately these are just ruins now but date back to the 14th century when the castle was built by the MacLeod clan. It would have been an impressive sight in its day standing proud on top of a large rock on the Sleat peninsula with a stunning view over Loch Eishort. Although most of the castle is gone the view remains and can be seen just as well on the way up to the castle so no need to take any risks getting close up. It’s a relatively short walk from Tokavaig Bay up to the ruins.

Bottle your own malt at the Old Pulteney Distillery

This is the furthest north distillery on the mainland and its Visitor Centre will delight you with a host of souvenirs and information on the history of the distillery, how the malt is crafted and bottled and even local history. It was built in 1826 and still uses traditional methods to make the Old Pulteney Malt. Try taking the tour, sampling the malt and even filling your very own bottle yourself by hand.

Duntulm Castle

Duntulm Castle stands ruined on the north coast of Trotternish, on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, near the hamlet of Duntulm. During the 17th century it was the seat of the chiefs of Clan MacDonald of Sleat. It is a scheduled monument. 

Caisteal Maol 

Caisteal Maol is a ruined castle located near the harbour of the village of Kyleakin, Isle of Skye, Scotland. It is also known as Castle Moil, Castle Maol, Dun Akyn, Dunakin Castle^[1] Dun Haakon and Castle Dunakin.

Armadale Castle

Armadale Castle is a ruined country house in Armadale, Skye, former home of the MacDonalds. A mansion house was first built here around 1790. In 1815 a Scottish baronial style mock-castle, intended for show rather than defense, designed by James Gillespie Graham, was built next to the house.

Dunscaith Castle

Dunscaith Castle also known as Dun Scaich, Dun Sgathaich Castle and Tokavaig, is a ruined castle on the coast of the Isle of Skye, in the north-west of Scotland. It is located in the Parish of Sleat, in the Highland council area, and in the former county of Inverness-shire, at grid reference NG595120. Also called Fortress of Shadows, it is named after and was the home of the warrior maiden Scáthach. It is protected as a scheduled monument.

Coral Beach

Portree

Portree (Scottish Gaelic: Port Rìgh, pronounced [pʰɔrˠʃt̪ˈtʰɾiː]) is the largest town on Skye in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland.^[2] It is the location for the only secondary school on the island, Portree High School. Public transport services are limited to buses. Portree has a harbour, fringed by cliffs, with a pier designed by Thomas Telford

Loch Coruisk

Loch Coruisk (in Scottish Gaelic, Coire Uisg, the "Cauldron of Waters") is an inland fresh-water loch, lying at the foot of the Black Cuillin in the Isle of Skye, in the Scottish Highlands. Loch Coruisk is reputed to be the home of a water horse.^[1]

Blà Bheinn

Blà Bheinn (also known as Blaven), is a mountain on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. It is usually regarded as an outlier to the Black Cuillin. It is mainly composed of gabbro, a rock with excellent grip for mountaineers and scramblers. The name "Blà Bheinn" is thought to mean "blue mountain", from a combination of Norse and Gaelic. Whereas blå in Modern Norwegian means "blue", the Old Norse word blá could, however, also refer to the colours blue-black and black.

Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools are a natural waterfall phenomenon in Glen Brittle, on the Allt Coir' a' Mhadaidh rivier on the Isle of Skye. The vivid blues and greens of the pools suggest an unnatural origin. They are a popular place for wild swimmers.  The habitat of the Fairy Pools hosts a variety of animals, such as red deer, rabbits, and sheep. The area is also host to a large number of birds. Large flocks of crows, ravens, and gulls are present in the area, as well as such smaller birds as meadow pipits, turnstones, common ringed plovers, grey herons, dunlins, and curlews. The physical landscape is predominately rocky, with some boggy areas here and there. The water in the area is typically cold. The Fairy Pools are a popular location for walkers.  It is about a 20 minute walk to the Fairy Pools from the Glen Brittle car park.

Neist Point

Neist Point  is a viewpoint on the most westerly point of Skye. Neist Point Lighthouse has been located there since 1909.

Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle is located 1 mile (1.6 km) to the north of Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, off the west coast of Scotland. It is the seat of the MacLeod of MacLeod, chief of the Clan MacLeod. Probably a fortified site from the earliest times, the castle was first built in the 13th century and developed piecemeal over the centuries. In the 19th century the whole was remodelled in a mock-medieval style. The castle is built on an elevated rock overlooking an inlet on the eastern shore of Loch Dunvegan, a sea loch.

The Storr

The Storr is a rocky hill on the Trotternish peninsula of the Isle of Skye in Scotland. The hill presents a steep rocky eastern face overlooking the Sound of Raasay, contrasting with gentler grassy slopes to the west.

Rubha nam Brathairean (Brother’s Point)

Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls

The Quiraing

The Quiraing is a landslip on the eastern face of Meall na Suiramach, the northernmost summit of the Trotternish on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. The whole of the Trotternish Ridge escarpment was formed by a great series of landslips; the Quiraing is the only part of the slip still moving—the road at its base, near Flodigarry, requires repairs each year.

The Three Chimneys

Head Chef, Scott Davies and his kitchen brigade create dishes which reflect Skye and Scotland’s wealth of ingredients, as well as our country's culinary heritage and ancient Nordic connections.

Restaurant Manager and Head Sommelier, Petri Pentikainen from Finland, supported by Sommelier and Assistant Restaurant Manager, Charlotte Davies, along with our whole front-of-house team are here to welcome you and guide you through the menus.

We have an excellent wine and bar list and are very happy to suggest wines to match your choice of food. Indeed we have carefully selected Wine Flights to match the Lunch and Diner Tasting Menus.

Aurora Bay

Aurora Bay’s atmosphere is sublime. On still nights the moon sometimes rises over Flodigarry Island opposite the house and is reflected in the dark waters. There is the Milky Way clearly visible on moonless nights and Auroras if you are lucky.

The Bosville

The Bosville Hotel is a contemporary boutique hotel with a re-imagined restaurant & bar. Situated in the heart of Skye’s picturesque Portree harbour, the Bosville has undergone complete refurbishment to bring this special property to its re-defined, intimate best.

The Tinhouse

Tinhouse is located on the northwestern tip of the Isle of Skye, on a steeply sloping site overlooking The Minch, the body of water separating the Inner and Outer Hebrides.

An Airigh

An Airigh, a luxury self-catering retreat for two on the Isle of Skye.

The Three Chimneys

Since opening in 1985, we have embraced our remote island location in north west Scotland, to create a breathtaking destination experience for our guests. Our genuine passion for creating and serving the very best of Scottish food with warm and friendly professionalism, has built our international reputation and been recognised with many awards over three decades.

Wildlife Croft

Sitting amongst indigenous trees, providing privacy and a haven, whilst still offering fantastic views over to Knoydart, stay at the tranquil Stonechat Bothy in South Skye. This secluded one bedroom, architect designed accommodation is ideal for exploring Skye, or enjoying a peaceful retreat. Wildlife is encouraged on the croft and an impressive number of birds and other wildlife have been recorded. Facilities include wood burning stove, Wifi, Sky TV, king size bed and a selection of DVDs, books and games. Dark skies in the winter are excellent for stargazing  

Achnasheen

Achnasheen is a small village in Ross-shire in the Highland council area of Scotland. The village is situated on the River Bran at the junction of two roads built by Thomas Telford.^[1] Despite the size of the village, Achnasheen is also the name of a postal district which covers several much larger communities including Kinlochewe, Poolewe and Laide. This dates from the time when the village railway station, built in 1870,^[1] was an important stop on the Kyle of Lochalsh Line, serving a large area of Wester Ross. The railway still operates but all freight and mail, and most passengers, now travel by road.

Loch Carron

Lochcarron is a village, community and civil parish in the Wester Ross area of Highland, Scotland. It has a population of 923.^[1]

Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve

The Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve is managed by Scottish Natural Heritage. Declared in 1951 by Dr John Berry in his role as Director of Nature Conservancy in Scotland,^[4] it was the first such area in Great Britain.^[5] Scottish Natural Heritage provides a visitor centre two miles north-west of Kinlochewe, extensive marked trails through woodland on the lower slopes of Beinn Eighe, picnic areas and viewpoints. SNH also provides a field station with full laboratory facilities for up to fourteen people.^[6] which is used by scientists and researchers to co-ordinate field data recording and as a base for undergraduate fieldwork.

Loch Maree

Loch Maree is a loch in Wester Ross in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland. At 20 km (12 mi) long and with a maximum width of 4 km (2.5 mi), it is the fourth largest freshwater loch in Scotland; it is the largest north of Loch Ness. Its surface area is 28.6 km² (11.0 sq mi).

Glen Torridon

The Torridon Hills surround Torridon village in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland. The name is usually applied to the mountains to the north of Glen Torridon. They are among the most dramatic and spectacular peaks in the British Isles and made of some of the oldest rocks in the world. Many are over 3000 feet high, so are considered Munros.

Diabaig

Diabaig is a remote coastal fishing and crofting township in Wester Ross, in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland.^[1] Diabaig lies on the north shore of the sea loch of Loch Diabaig, an inlet off the north side of Loch Torridon, and is in the Highland council area.

Torridon

Torridon is a small village in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland. However the name is also applied to the area surrounding the village, particularly the Torridon Hills, mountains to the north of Glen Torridon. It lies on the shore of Loch Torridon.

Bealach na Ba

Bealach na Bà is a winding, single track road through the mountains of the Applecross peninsula, in Wester Ross in the Scottish Highlands. The historic mountain pass was built in 1822 and is engineered similarly to roads through the great mountain passes in the Alps, with very tight hairpin bends that switch back and forth up the hillside and gradients that approach 20%. It boasts the steepest ascent of any road climb in the UK, rising from sea level at Applecross to 626 metres (2,054 ft), and is the third highest road in Scotland.

Plockton

Plockton is a village in the Highlands of Scotland in the county of Ross and Cromarty with a population of 378.^[1] Plockton is a settlement on the shores of Loch Carron. It faces east, away from the prevailing winds, which together with the North Atlantic Drift gives it a mild climate allowing the Cordyline australis palm or cabbage tree to prosper.

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan (Scottish Gaelic: Eilean Donnain) is a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, in the western Highlandsof Scotland. A picturesque castle that frequently appears in photographs, film and television dominates the island, which lies about 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) from the village of Dornie. Since the castle's restoration in the early 20th century, a footbridge has connected the island to the mainland.

The Torridon

Set in 58 acres of parkland at the end of a magnificent sea loch, The Torridon has one of the most spectacular and idyllic locations in the country.

The Stonehouses

Nestled into a hillside above the beautiful North Highland village of Ullapool, sit two stunning five star holiday retreats. Built, or should we say sculpted, from stone, turf and glass, these retreats have been created to provide a truly unique and luxurious holiday experience.  

Take a nature trail at Forsinard Flows Nature Reserve

Fersinard Flows is a vast expanse of a rare type of peatland forming a blanket bog. Depending on what time of year you visit you could see breeding peatland birds, insects, peatland plants and herds of red deer.

Take a break at Durness Village for a bite to eat

Durness is the largest village in this area and is in fact the most north-westerly of villages on the British mainland. Look out for the beautiful golden beaches of Sango Bay and Balnakeil Bay. If you are staying overnight you’ll find that it caters for all types of traveller as it has a campsite, B&B and a hotel. There is also a coffee shop and a restaurant for those just passing through and in need of refreshment. This area is popular with climbers and hillwalkers with its walking trails, cliffs, sandy coves, mountains and moorland.

Walk around the Kyle of Durness and soak in the views

The coastal inlet of Kyle of Durness divides the Cape Wrath peninsula from the mainland. It’s a wild and windy area to visit but you are well rewarded with some lovely coastal walks with amazing views. There are a number of little villages where you can get petrol, accommodation, shops and cafes.

Explore the spectacular Smoo Caves

Set into the limestone cliffs about a mile east of Durness you will find this spectacular sea cave. You can take the car to the car park and then walk along a path for 10 minutes to reach the waterfall/lake chamber. If you are interested in geology you may want to take one of the tours that run from April to September. The cave itself is open at all times however. Be careful though as it can flood if it has been raining.

Watch the surfers in Torrisdale Bay

If your travels take you to Bettyhill then be sure to encompass a visit to the nearby Torrisdale Bay especially if the weather is good. Here you’ll find a mile long stretch of beautiful clean golden sand with amazing dunes. This is especially popular with surfers as the tides in the bay are challenging. The River Naver which runs into the Bay is popular for salmon fishing.

Steep yourself in Scottish history at Bettyhill

This village is of special interest to history lovers as it was formed at the time of the Highland Clearances. This area used to be heavily populated however 15,000 people were cleared from the 1.5 million acre estate in the ten years between 1811 and 1821 during the Highland Clearances. After this however the Countess of Sutherland decided to build a new village near the coast on the mouth of the River Navar and call it after herself.

Enjoy the mountainous views around Loch Eriboll

Bottle your own malt at the Old Pulteney Distillery

This is the furthest north distillery on the mainland and its Visitor Centre will delight you with a host of souvenirs and information on the history of the distillery, how the malt is crafted and bottled and even local history. It was built in 1826 and still uses traditional methods to make the Old Pulteney Malt. Try taking the tour, sampling the malt and even filling your very own bottle yourself by hand.

Turn off the A99 to Sinclair’s Bay and find a little bit of paradise

This is a stunning large white beach known locally as Reiss Beach complete with sand dunes, high cliffs and castles. It’s a peaceful and sheltered spot where you can relax, play in the lovely white sands or look out for seabirds, seals, orchas and the unusual Glovely trees. You can park at the free car park opposite the Golf Course at Reiss and walk to the beach from there.  Not to be missed if you are nearby on a beautiful sunny day.

Imagine living in the Castle Of Old Wick in the 12th Century

This castle known as The Old Man of Wick dates back to the 12th Century when the King of Norway controlled many of the islands along Scotland’s northern and western coasts. It has a very dramatic setting built on a finger of rock with tall cliffs on three sides which makes it an ideal backdrop for an interesting photo.

Find drama at Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

See the most dramatic coastal scenery surrounding this ruined castle sitting on the cliff edge and find out the stories of family feuds, battles and disputed claims of ownership. Learn how the castle went from fortress to Grand Mansion to decline and ruin over the many years since it was first built in the 14th century. Find out about it being listed in the World Monuments Watch in 2002 and how the WMF working with Historic Scotland, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Clan Sinclair Trust, the Highland Council and Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise have funded projects to save the castle.

View the Old Man of Hoy from the Castle of Mey

On a clear day you can see right across the Pentland Firth to Hoy from here and take in some unbelievable scenery as you do. That’s not all though because this castle also offers a delicious tearoom, shop, animal centre and beautiful grounds and gardens to walk through. An interesting fact about this castle is that it used to be an abandoned castle known as Barrogill Castle until the Queen Mother spotted in in 1952 and decided to save it. You can find it between Thurso and John O’Groats.

Experience wilderness in Caithness

Caithness runs from the Pentland Firth to the Moray Firth and together with Sutherland covers the north coast of Scotland. Inland it is mainly made up of the sparsely populated Flow Country which is worth a visit if you are interested in wild bogs and moorland with unusual plants, birds, insects or red deer. The coastal part of Caithness is dramatic with its offshore stacks and high cliffs. Check out Duncansby Head in particular.

Duncansby Head

Although John o’Groats is known as the most north eastern tip of the mainland Duncansby Head actually goes further by about a mile or two. There are some great views of nature at its best and most rugged from both the car park and beyond.

The House at Mackay's

Gloriously grown up, The House at Mackays is a fantastic holiday rental in a fantastic spot. Modern highland decor, muted colours & fabrics make for relaxed, stylish living. Huge beds, baths, private garden, wood stove and views over the wild Atlantic Ocean…Step into your dream holiday.

The Stonehouses

Nestled into a hillside above the beautiful North Highland village of Ullapool, sit two stunning five star holiday retreats. Built, or should we say sculpted, from stone, turf and glass, these retreats have been created to provide a truly unique and luxurious holiday experience.  

Croft 103

luxury self catering accommodation on the shores of Loch Eriboll near Durness in North West Sutherland, Scotland – an area of unparalleled natural beauty. These stunning low impact buildings benefit from the very best in traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge contemporary design.

View the Old Man of Hoy from the Castle of Mey

On a clear day you can see right across the Pentland Firth to Hoy from here and take in some unbelievable scenery as you do. That’s not all though because this castle also offers a delicious tearoom, shop, animal centre and beautiful grounds and gardens to walk through. An interesting fact about this castle is that it used to be an abandoned castle known as Barrogill Castle until the Queen Mother spotted in in 1952 and decided to save it. You can find it between Thurso and John O’Groats.

Experience wilderness in Caithness

Caithness runs from the Pentland Firth to the Moray Firth and together with Sutherland covers the north coast of Scotland. Inland it is mainly made up of the sparsely populated Flow Country which is worth a visit if you are interested in wild bogs and moorland with unusual plants, birds, insects or red deer. The coastal part of Caithness is dramatic with its offshore stacks and high cliffs. Check out Duncansby Head in particular.

Enjoy the falconry display at Dunrobin Castle

This fascinating castle dates back to the 1300s and it’s a must see if you are anywhere nearby, but give yourself plenty of time as there is so much to see and do while you are there. You will find Dunrobin Castle a mile outside Golspie, about 50 miles north of Inverness. It looks like a fairy-tale castle or a French chateau with the most wonderful gardens. Whether you want to watch the Falconry display, tour round the castle itself, enjoy the gardens, have a romantic wedding or learn about the history in its museum you will have a great day out at Dunrobin.

Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle is a stately home in Sutherland, in the Highland area of Scotland, and the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland and the Clan Sutherland. It is located 1 mile (1.6 km) north of Golspie, and approximately 5 miles (8.0 km) south of Brora, overlooking the Dornoch Firth.

Caithness

Caithness is a historic county, registration county and lieutenancy area of Scotland. Caithness has a land boundary with the historic county of Sutherland and is otherwise bounded by sea. The land boundary follows a watershed and is crossed by two roads, the A9 and the A836, and one railway, the Far North Line. Across the Pentland Firth ferries link Caithness with Orkney, and Caithness also has an airport at Wick. The Pentland Firth island of Stroma is within Caithness.

Bressay Lighthouse

If you travel to the Shetland mainland by sea then you will see Bressay Lighthouse as you approach the harbour. Bressay is one of the Shetland Islands with a population of around 360 people. It’s so close to the Shetland mainland that the ferry trip only takes five minutes. The lighthouse was opened in August 1858 and was in operation right up to August 2012. It now belongs to Shetland Amenity Trust and is used to house art exhibitions with the outbuildings being used for self-catering accommodation. So whether you want to just see the view from the lighthouse, visit an art exhibition or have a holiday in one of the cottages its worth a visit to this iconic lighthouse.

Suidhe Viewpoint

This is a viewpoint that tells a story of the past. From here you can see stunning views all around you of Loch Ness and the surrounding area but also of the road itself. This is the B862 from Fort Augustus which is mostly single track with passing places. It is known as General Wade’s Military Road and is part of the Jacobite story.

Go Skiing or Snowboarding on the Cairngorms

The winter season that allows for skiing and snowboarding is generally between December and April but it really is weather dependent so you will need to check the ski reports beforehand.

Fair Isle

Fair Isle is an island in Shetland, in northern Scotland. It lies about halfway between mainland Shetland and Orkney. It is known for its bird observatory and a traditional style of knitting.

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse is a lighthouse on Sumburgh Head at the southern tip of the Mainland of Shetland.

Isle of Noss

Noss is a small, previously inhabited island in Shetland, Scotland. It is a sheep farm and has been a national nature reserve since 1955.

Shetland Museum

The New Shetland Museum and Archives at Hay's Dock, Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland, was officially opened on 31 May 2007 by HM Queen Sonja of Norway and the Duke & Duchess of Rothesay (Charles & Camilla).

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

Hermaness was designated a National Nature Reserve in 1955 and is currently managed by Scottish Natural Heritage, though the land remains in the ownership of the Edmondston family of Baltasound.

Castle Stuart

Castle Stuart is a restored tower house on the banks of the Moray Firth, about 6.5 miles (10 km) northeast of Inverness.        

Cawdor Castle

Cawdor Castle is set amid gardens in the parish of Cawdor in Nairnshire, Scotland. The castle is built around a 15th-century tower house, with substantial additions in later centuries. Originally a property of the Calder family, it passed to the Campbells in the 16th century. It remains in Campbell ownership, and is now home to the Dowager Countess Cawdor, stepmother of Colin Campbell, 7th Earl Cawdor.

Brodie Castle

Brodie Castle is a castle near Forres, in Moray, Scotland.

Fort George

Fort George is a large 18th-century fortress near Ardersier, to the north-east of Inverness in the Highland council area of Scotland. It was built to pacify the Scottish Highlands in the aftermath of the Jacobite rising of 1745, replacing a Fort George in Inverness constructed after the 1715 Jacobite rising to control the area. The current fortress has never been attacked and has remained in continuous use as a garrison.

Ardverikie House

Ardverikie House is a 19th-century Scottish baronial house in Kinloch Laggan, Newtonmore, Inverness-shire, Scottish Highlands. The house was made famous as the fictional Glenbogle estate in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen.^[1]

 

Ballindalloch Castle

Ballindalloch Castle, known as the "pearl of the north", is a Scottish castle located in Banffshire, Scotland. It has been the family home of Macpherson-Grants since 1546.      

Inverness Castle

The red sandstone buildings of Inverness Castle can best be viewed from the opposite bank of the River Ness. It is lit up at night and provides a beautiful backdrop for an evening photo. Its newest attraction is The Castle Viewpoint. Here you can see a full 360 degree panorama of Inverness from the viewing platform. Information of what to look out for is provided along with some historic information on Inverness and the Castle including myths and legends. Most of the castle is in use today and is not open to the public but the Tower with its Viewpoint and the grounds are open in the summer months.

Invermoriston

Invermoriston is a small village 11 kilometres (7 miles) north of Fort Augustus, Highland, Scotland. The village is on the A82 road, at a junction with the A887. The village's most visited attraction is the Thomas Telford bridge, built in 1813, which crosses the spectacular River Moriston falls. This bridge used to form part of the main road between Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus but was replaced in the 1930s with the new bridge used today.

Urquhart Castle

Travel out of Inverness for only 30 minutes by car along the A82 towards Drumnadrocit and you will find Urquhart Castle. The castle has a truly iconic setting high on a promontory overlooking Loch Ness with views both up and down the loch. You can learn of the troubled history, see a good number of relics from the past, get a feel for what it would have been like to live there so many years ago.

The Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition

Ancarraig Lodges

Ancarraig Lodges are a collection of 12 family run, secluded cabins tucked away high in the wooded hillside of Loch Ness. Located directly on the Great Glen Way, and with dogs welcome, Ancarraig is a nature lover’s paradise where deer, pinemartens and birds of prey are regular visitors. Each lodge sleeps 4 guests across 2 bedrooms, one double and one twin, and offers a private bathroom, kitchen, seating area with log burner, TV, and secure, private balcony with outside dining space.

Quarryfield

A modern, private and spacious home created from historic farm buildings to offer the luxurious comfort of a boutique hotel. Sleeps 16

Go Skiing or Snowboarding on the Cairngorms

The winter season that allows for skiing and snowboarding is generally between December and April but it really is weather dependent so you will need to check the ski reports beforehand.

Lairig Ghru

The Lairig Ghru is one of the mountain passes through the Cairngorms of Scotland. The route and mountain pass partially lies on the Mar Lodge Estate.

Ride the Funicular Railway to the top of the Cairngorm Mountain.

This is a rare experience available to all ages and abilities. This small train takes you all the way up to the viewing platform, shop, exhibition and restaurant at the top. From here you can take a guided walk or just enjoy the scenery and facilities. The train runs daily all year round.  

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is Britain's only free-ranging herd of reindeer found in the Cairngorm mountains in Scotland.  

Landmark Forest Adventure Park

If you are looking for a day packed full of fun for all the family then spend the day at Landmark Forest Adventure Park. There is so much to do and see here. Their attractions include Wild Water Coaster, Runaway Timber Train, Butterfly House, Ropeworx, Lost Labyrinth, Bamboozeleum, Skydive, The Ancient Forest, Wonder Wood, Forest Safari Ride, Tarzan Trail, Pinnacle Climbing Wall, Ant City, Shooting Gallery, Wee Monkey Trail, Fire Tower and Mini diggers, Radio Jeeps.

Enjoy the outdoor life at Rothiemurchus

If you are keen to enjoy the outdoor life then why not take a look at this amazing place just outside Aviemore. It has outdoor activities for all ages. Within this estate you can take a leisurely country walk, go quad-biking, try your hand at archery, hire bikes or segways, go pony trekking or fishing, try your hand at river sports like white water tubing, paddle boarding or rafting.

Strathspey Railway

The Strathspey Railway invites you to step aboard our trains this year and help celebrate forty years of the return of steam travel through the Highlands of Scotland.

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is a large estate house in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, near the village of Crathie, 6.2 miles (10 km) west of Ballater and 6.8 miles (11 km) east of Braemar.

Corgarff Castle

Corgarff Castle is located at Corgarff, in Aberdeenshire, north-east Scotland. It stands by the Lecht road, which crosses the pass between Strathdon and Tomintoul. The castle was built in the mid 16th century by the Forbes of Towie. In 1571 it was burned by their enemy, Adam Gordon of Auchindoun, resulting in the deaths of Lady Forbes, her children, and numerous others, and giving rise to the ballad Edom o Gordon. After the Jacobite risings of the 18th century, it was rebuilt as a barracks and a detachment of government troops were stationed there, on the military road from Braemar Castle to Fort George, Inverness. Military use continued as late as 1831, after which the tower served as a distillery and housed local workers. It remained part of the Delnadamph estate belonging to the Stockdale family until they passed the castle into state care in 1961 and gave the ownership of the castle to the Lonach Highland and Friendly Society.

Corgarff Castle

Corgarff Castle is located at Corgarff, in Aberdeenshire, north-east Scotland. It stands by the Lecht road, which crosses the pass between Strathdon and Tomintoul. The castle was built in the mid 16th century by the Forbes of Towie. In 1571 it was burned by their enemy, Adam Gordon of Auchindoun, resulting in the deaths of Lady Forbes, her children, and numerous others, and giving rise to the ballad Edom o Gordon. After the Jacobite risings of the 18th century, it was rebuilt as a barracks and a detachment of government troops were stationed there, on the military road from Braemar Castle to Fort George, Inverness. Military use continued as late as 1831, after which the tower served as a distillery and housed local workers. It remained part of the Delnadamph estate belonging to the Stockdale family until they passed the castle into state care in 1961 and gave the ownership of the castle to the Lonach Highland and Friendly Society.

Braemar Castle

Braemar Castle is situated near the village of Braemar in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It is a possession of the chief of Clan Farquharson and is leased to a local charitable foundation. It is open to the public.

Blair Athol Distillery

Blair Athol Distillery is a distillery in Scotland that distills Blair Athol single malt whisky. It is used in Bell's whisky, and is also normally available in a 12-year-old bottling. The distillery is located near Pitlochry in Perthshire.

Loch Tummel

Loch Tummel is a long, narrow loch, 7 kilometres north west of Pitlochry in Perth and Kinross, Scotland.

The Glen Grant’s distillery

Each year around 16.000 visitors discover the magic of The Glen Grant’s distillery. Connoisseurs and first time imbibers from around the world tour our distillery and often take home bottles and memorabilia of their unique Single Malt experience. Visitors can choose from guided tours and private tastings offered by our friendly distillery staff.

Glenfiddich Distillery

When you visit, you’ll discover tall copper tuns, great wooden washbacks and stone-walled warehouses filled with earthy, aged aromas. We are proud to be one of the last independent distilleries in Scotland, with the freedom to maintain our tradition of innovation with a pioneering spirit.

Glenlivet Distillery

The Glenlivet Distillery sits in a wild and remote glen, its history laced with drama and intrigue. So in every bottle of whisky we make, we capture as much of the spirit of the glen as we can.

The Macallan Distillery

Much like our curiously small stills, our small groups are limited to just 10 people to ensure a luxurious, personal experience. Your friendly and knowledgeable guide will explain how we create The Macallan’s rich spirit in a working still house and introduce you to the ‘Six Pillars’.  You will learn how our unparalleled investment in the finest casks contributes to the natural colours, aromas and flavours that set The Macallan apart. After a thorough immersion into the world of The Macallan, you will experience a nosing and tasting of four The Macallan whiskies as well as their very foundation, our wonderfully rich new make spirit.

Aberlour Distillery

Steeped in centuries of legend and surrounded by the dramatic Highland scenery of Ben Rinnes, the village of Aberlour lies at the very heart of Speyside, where the Lour burn joins the River Spey. The exceptionally pure, soft spring water used for making Aberlour whisky is drawn from nearby natural springs. In this special place, the resources of nature and the founder’s passion for making the best single malt combine to make the generously multi-layered whiskies of Aberlour.

Brodie Castle

Brodie Castle is a castle near Forres, in Moray, Scotland.

 

Balvenie Castle

Balvenie Castle is a ruined castle near Dufftown in the Moray region of Scotland. Originally known as Mortlach, it was built in the 12th century by a branch of the powerful Comyn family (the Black Comyns) and extended and altered in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Ballindalloch castle

Ballindalloch Castle, known as the "pearl of the north", is a Scottish castle located in Banffshire, Scotland. It has been the family home of Macpherson-Grants since 1546.

Findhorn Bay

Findhorn is a village in Moray, Scotland. It is located on the eastern shore of Findhorn Bay and immediately south of the Moray Firth. Findhorn is 3 miles (5 km) northwest of Kinloss, and about 5 miles (9 km) by road from Forres.

Grantown-on-Spey

Grantown-on-Spey is a town in the Highland Council Area, historically within the county of Moray. It was founded in 1765 as a planned settlement on a low plateau at Freuchie beside the river Spey at the northern edge of the Cairngorm mountains, about 20 miles south east of Inverness (35 miles by road).

Aberlour

Aberlour is the name of a town in Moray, Scotland, 12 miles (20 km) south of Elgin on the road to Grantown. A burn (stream), the Lour burn is a tributary of the River Spey, and the surrounding parish, are both named Aberlour, but the name is most commonly used in reference to the village which straddles the stream and flanks the Spey – although the full name of the village is Charlestown of Aberlour.

Donmouth Local Nature Reserve

Donmouth Local Nature Reserve is a beach site in the historic Old Aberdeen part of the City, where the River Don meets the sea.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Aberdeen Maritime Museum is a maritime museum in Aberdeen, Scotland. The museum is situated on the historic Shiprow in the heart of the city, near the harbour. It makes use of a range of buildings including a former church and Provost Ross' House, one of the oldest domestic buildings in the city.

Roseisle Forest

Roseisle is a village near Elgin, Morayshire, in the Strathspey region of Scotland.

Delgatie Castle

Delgatie Castle is a castle near Turriff, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. A castle has stood on the site of Delgatie Castle since the year 1030 AD, although the earliest parts of the castle standing today were built between 1570 and 1579. Additional wings and a chapel were added in 1743.

Corgarff Castle

Corgarff Castle is located at Corgarff, in Aberdeenshire, north-east Scotland. It stands by the Lecht road, which crosses the pass between Strathdon and Tomintoul. The castle was built in the mid 16th century by the Forbes of Towie. In 1571 it was burned by their enemy, Adam Gordon of Auchindoun, resulting in the deaths of Lady Forbes, her children, and numerous others, and giving rise to the ballad Edom o Gordon. After the Jacobite risings of the 18th century, it was rebuilt as a barracks and a detachment of government troops were stationed there, on the military road from Braemar Castle to Fort George, Inverness. Military use continued as late as 1831, after which the tower served as a distillery and housed local workers. It remained part of the Delnadamph estate belonging to the Stockdale family until they passed the castle into state care in 1961 and gave the ownership of the castle to the Lonach Highland and Friendly Society.

Tolquhon Castle

Tolquhon Castle (pronounced: "toh-hon", and sometimes spelt 'Tolquhoun') is located in Aberdeenshire, north-east Scotland. It lies about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north-west of Pitmedden, and 2 miles (3.2 km) south of Tarves. The castle was built by William Forbes, 7th Laird of Tolquhon, between 1584 and 1589 as an extension to the earlier tower house known as Preston's Tower. Although ruined, the castle has been described as "the most characteristic château of the Scots Renaissance".^[1]It is in the care of Historic Scotland and is open to the public.

Braemar Castle

Braemar Castle is situated near the village of Braemar in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It is a possession of the chief of Clan Farquharson and is leased to a local charitable foundation. It is open to the public.

Drum Castle

Drum Castle is a castle near Drumoak in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. For centuries it was the seat of the chief of Clan Irvine.^[1] The place-name Drum is derived from Gaelic druim, 'ridge'.

Crathes Castle

Crathes Castle (pronounced Crath-es) is a 16th-century castle near Banchory in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland. This harled castle was built by the Burnetts of Leys and was held in that family for almost 400 years. The castle and grounds are owned and managed by the National Trust for Scotland and are open to the public.

Slains Castle

Slains Castle, also known as New Slains Castle to distinguish it from nearby Old Slains Castle, is a ruined castle in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It overlooks the North Sea from its cliff-top site 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) east of Cruden Bay. The core of the castle is a 16th-century tower house, built by the 9th Earl of Erroll. Significant reconstruction of the castle has been carried out a number of times, lastly in 1837 when it was rebuilt as a Scots Baronial mansion. At one time it had three extensive gardens, but is now a roofless ruin. Plans to restore the castle have been on hold since 2009.

Huntly Castle

Huntly Castle is a ruined castle in Huntly in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It was the ancestral home of the chief of Clan Gordon, Earl of Huntly.

Haddo House

Haddo House is a Scottish stately home located near Tarves in Aberdeenshire, approximately 20 miles (32 km) north of Aberdeen (grid reference NJ868347). It has been owned by the National Trust for Scotland since 1979.

Castle Fraser

Castle Fraser is the most elaborate Z-plan castle in Scotland and one of the grandest 'Castles of Mar'. It is located near Kemnay in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland. The castle stands in over 300 acres (1.2 km²) of landscaped grounds, woodland and farmland which includes a walled kitchen garden of the 19th century. There is archaeological evidence of an older square tower dating from around 1400 or 1500 within the current construction.

Fyvie Castle

The earliest parts of Fyvie Castle date from the 13th century – some sources claim it was built in 1211 by William the Lion. Fyvie was the site of an open-air court held by Robert the Bruce, and Charles I lived there as a child. Following the Battle of Otterburn in 1390, it ceased to be a royal stronghold and instead fell into the possession of five successive families – Preston, Meldrum, Seton, Gordon and Leith – each of whom added a new tower to the castle. The oldest of these, the Preston tower (located on the far right as one faces the main facade of Fyvie), dates to between 1390 and 1433. The impressive Seton tower forms the entrance, and was erected in 1599 by Alexander Seton; Seton also commissioned the great processional staircase several years later. The Gordon tower followed in 1778 , and the Leith in 1890.

Craigievar Castle

Craigievar Castle is a pinkish harled castle 6 miles (9.7 km) south of Alford, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It was the seat of Clan Sempill and the Forbes family resided here for 350 years until 1963, when the property was given to the National Trust for Scotland. The setting is among scenic rolling foothills of the Grampian Mountains. The contrast of its massive lower storey structure to the finely sculpted multiple turrets, gargoyles and high corbelling work create a classic fairytale appearance.

Aberdeen Beach

Aberdeen Beach and Queens Links is located in Aberdeen, Scotland. The beach itself is famous for its golden sand and its long curved length between the harbour and the River Don's mouth. The beach suffers from significant erosion of the sand so there are distinctive groyne or walls, to help keep the sand in place. The beach is popular with walkers, surfers and windsurfers.

Footdee

Footdee is an area of Aberdeen, Scotland known locally as "Fittie". It is an old fishing village at the east end of the harbour. The name is actually folk etymology. Far from being "Foot of the Dee/Fit o the Dee", it is actually a corruption of a former dedication to a "St Fothan"^{[citation needed]}. The area has had a settlement as far back as the Medieval times and the first recorded reference to the area of Fittie was in the year 1398. This village was slightly further North than where Footdee is now located. It would have been near to where the St Clement's Church is located.^[1] The following is taken from Historic Scotland's Information Supplementary to the Statutory List:^[2]

Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval fortress located upon a rocky headland on the north-east coast of Scotland, about 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) south of Stonehaven. The surviving buildings are largely of the 15th and 16th centuries, but the site is believed to have been fortified in the Early Middle Ages. Dunnottar has played a prominent role in the history of Scotland through to the 18th-century Jacobite risings because of its strategic location and defensive strength. Dunnottar is best known as the place where the Honours of Scotland, the Scottish crown jewels, were hidden from Oliver Cromwell's invading army in the 17th century. The property of the Keiths from the 14th century, and the seat of the Earl Marischal, Dunnottar declined after the last Earl forfeited his titles by taking part in the Jacobite rebellion of 1715. The castle was restored in the 20th century and is now open to the public.

Stonehaven

Stonehaven is a town in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It lies on Scotland's northeast coast and had a population of 11,602 (Scotland's Census 2011).^[1] After the demise of the town of Kincardine, which was gradually abandoned after the destruction of its royal castle in the Wars of Independence, the Scottish Parliament made Stonehaven the successor county town of Kincardineshire.

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is a large estate house in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, near the village of Crathie, 6.2 miles (10 km) west of Ballater and 6.8 miles (11 km) east of Braemar.

Marks @ the Manor

MARKS @ THE MANOR is a self-catering accommodation located in Aberdeen. FreeWi-Fi access is available. Accommodation will provide you with a tv and a seating area. There is a full kitchen with a microwave and oven. Featuring a bath or shower, private bathrooms also come with towels.

Douneside House

Douneside House offers a truly luxurious hotel stay within the grounds of the MacRobert Estate in Aberdeenshire and the Scottish Highlands.

Be a King or a Queen for the day at Scone Palace

This Georgian mansion of extreme elegance and luxury dates back to 1580. The self-guided tour will take you through a series of extravagant rooms filled with fine French furnishings and noble photographs.

Rannoch Moor

If it is undiluted wilderness that the makers of Harry Potter were after, they certainly found it at Rannoch Moor, also known as Great Moor of Rannoch. It is in many of the films, mainly in scenes that contain Hogwarts express. It is also the place that the Death eaters stop and board the train in Deathly Hallows part 1. A boggy, unforgiving landscape at certain times of the year.

Dunino Den

Believed by many to be haunted by fairies and other creatures of Celtic legend, the Dunino Den and its surrounding features definitely create a supernatural atmosphere.

St Cyrus National Nature Reserve

St Cyrus National Nature Reserve (NNR) is situated between the village of St Cyrus and the North Sea. The Reserve comprises 92 hectares (230 acres) of coastal habitat in the northern third of Montrose Bay and is managed by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). The cliffs and dunes provide a nationally important habitat for flowering plants and insects,^[2] many of which grow at their northern limit in Britain. The reserve is one of the most important botanical sites on the north-east coast of Scotland, supporting over 300 plant species.

Broughty Castle

Broughty Castle is a historic castle on the banks of the river Tay in Broughty Ferry, Dundee, Scotland. It was completed around 1495, although the site was earlier fortified in 1454 when George Douglas, 4th Earl of Angus received permission to build on the site. His son Archibald Douglas, 5th Earl of Angus was coerced into ceding the castle to the crown. The main tower house forming the centre of the castle with four floors was built by Andrew, 2nd Lord Gray who was granted the castle in 1490.

V&A Dundee

V&A Museum of Design Dundee brings a new perspective. An international centre of design, it’s where we present the brilliance of Scottish creativity and the best of design from around the world. It’s a place where people from every walk of life can find enjoyment and inspiration.

Dundee’s McManus Galleries

McManus Galleries is a Gothic Revival-style building, located in the centre of Dundee, Scotland. The building houses a museum and art gallery with a collection of fine and decorative art as well as a natural history collection.

Scotland’s Jute Museum at Verdant Works

Jute is a rough fibre that was used in many applications. It is rawest form, it is a rough, strong fibre that held cotton bales together and yet, with a little more refinement it was used in soft furnishings. As a port city, you would expect much of its history to be about the sea and the trade that it brought. The Jute Museum charts this long history, with interactive displays including how the working class were the backbone of this industry. Fascinating for all ages, a ticket for Scotland’s Jute Museum can also mean a discount when visiting the RRS Discovery too.  

Get aboard the RRS Discovery

RRS Discovery was the last British ship to be built with three masts but there is something else of which this ship can boast – it was the boat built for adventure. It was the vessel on which Captain Scott and Ernest Shackleton made their first visit to the Antarctic. Docked at the aptly named Discovery Point, you can learn of her past with a tour of the museum whilst also taking in the splendour of Dundee’s waterfront.

Explore St Salvator’s Chapel

St Salvator's Chapel is one of two collegiate chapels belonging to the University of St Andrews, the other being St Leonard's Chapel. It was founded in 1450, by Bishop James Kennedy, built in the Late Gothic architectural style, and refurbished in the 1680s, 1860s and throughout the 20th century. It is currently the chapel of the United college as well as being the major university chapel. Check on Map

Old Course at St Andrews

The Old Course at St Andrews is considered the oldest golf course in the world, a public course over common land in St Andrews, Fife, Scotland. It is held in trust by The St Andrews Links Trust under an act of Parliament. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews club house sits adjacent to the first tee, although it is but one of many clubs that have playing privileges on the course, along with the general public.

Take on the Himalayas

Right beside the world-famous Old Course sits “The Himalayas” putting green where anyone and everyone can enjoy the experience of St Andrews golf, with absolutely no experience needed!

West Sands St Andrews

West Sands Beach in St Andrews, Scotland, served as the set for the opening scene in the movie Chariots of Fire. This scene was reenacted during the 2012 Olympics torch relay.  The beach was also featured in the 2012 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony  The 2-mile-long (3 km) beach is adjacent to the famous St Andrews Links golf course.  Sand dunes on the beach, which have long protected the golf course, are themselves in danger of eroding away, and are the subject of a restoration project. 

Climb St Rule’s Tower

St Rule's tower is located in the Cathedral grounds but predates it, having served as the church of the priory up to the early 12th century. The building was retained to allow worship to continue uninterrupted during the building of its much larger successor. Originally, the tower and adjoining choir were part of the church built in the 11th century to house the relics of St Andrew. The nave, with twin western turrets, and the apse of the church no longer stand.  

Forter Castle

Eastside Byre

Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this cosy cottage in the Pentland Hills is part of a beautifully converted 18th Century farmstead near Edinburgh. The Byre is ideal for holidays but also small parties & family gatherings in the country.  

Eastside Steading

The Steading Cottage is hidden in a peaceful glen of the Pentlands Hills surrounded by rugged heather hills, long walks & spectacular views. Explore the stunning landscapes & nearby Edinburgh - or just curl up by a roaring fire in your hilltop hideaway. Originally an 18th Century hay-shed, The Steading has been lovingly converted with heaps of rural character & charm.  

Westside Woodshed

The Woodshed is a modern, architect-designed gem just 10 miles from central Edinburgh. At the end of a winding farm track, this luxury self-catering hideaway is surrounded by the rugged heather hills & glens of the Pentland Hills Regional Park.  

The Old Manse of Blair

A five-star exclusive-use country house in the heart of Highland Perthshire, The Old Manse of Blair built in 1828, combines traditional elegance with modern luxury. Only available on an exclusive-use basis so you’ll only be surrounded by your guests enjoying the privacy of this beautiful listed mansion and it’s spectacular setting.