Loch Ness
Loch Ness is located in the North of Scotland and is one of
a series of interlinked lochs that run along the Great Glen. A few
miles west of Inverness, the dark, mysterious expanse of Loch Ness
is revealed. At over 750 feet deep and 23 miles long, it is one of
the world's most famous attractions. Why? Because for many years it
has been supposed that there is a large dinosaur-like "monster"
resident in Loch Ness!! The Original Loch Ness Monster Exhibition
Centre presents the facts and documented evidence from photographs,
descriptions and film footage of sightings. It also highlights
various search expeditions over the years by respected institutions
and individuals such as Operation Deepscan. There is also a
40-minute audio-visual display in eight different languages that
tells you about the history of the monster and all the main
sightings of it.
Website: http://www.lochness.co.uk
Edinburgh Castle
Perched high on an extinct volcanic outcrop, Edinburgh Castle is
an evocative landmark with a fascinating history spanning 3000 years
and was the residence of many Scottish Kings and Queens. It offers
splendid panoramic views of the city and is home to the Scottish
Crown Jewels. You can see the room where Mary Queen of Scots gave
birth to James VI and I, the first ruler of both Scotland and
England. If you see one thing in Scotland, make it this fascinating
beautiful castle.
Website: http://www.geo.ed.ac.uk/home/tour/castle.html
Highland Mysteryworld
Highland Mysteryworld energises the ancient mysteries of the
Highlands right before your eyes. It brings to life the myths,
legends and folklore that rest so richly within Scottish history.
Here you will you embark upon a journey back in time to the world of
bogles, kelpies and fachns. Experience the Highlands of yesteryear.
Enter the mysterious stone circle and meet visitors from long ago
who will tell you amazing tales of Scotland's legendary past.
Experience the riddles of the serpents' cavern where the Blue Man of
the Minch and other legends come alive just for you. Feel for
yourself the sensations, sights, sounds, and smells of ancient
Scotland.
Website: http://www.farmer.co.uk/gallery/mysteryworld.html
Glencoe
Glencoe is one of Scotland's most historic and scenic glens and
continues to rank among the most frequented areas in Scotland The
ruggedness of the mountains, with spectacular spires, cliffs and
gullies is awe inspiring. You will be amazed by the sheer scale and
grandeur of Glencoes surrounding mountains and fascinated by its
intriguing, turbulent past. To enjoy and appreciate fully the
attractions of Glencoe, it is important to understand something of
its natural history, and the circumstances which led up to and
during the infamous massacre of 1692. Signal Rock and NTS Visitor
Centre at the foot of the glen near Clachaig Inn will provide you
with detailed information and history of the glen.
Melrose Abbey
Melrose Abbey is probably the most famous ruin in Scotland. It
was founded by David I around 1136 as a Cistercian abbey but was
largely destroyed by Richard IIs English army in 1385. The
surviving remains of the church date largely from the early 15th
century and are of an elegance unsurpassed in Scotland. The charm of
this celebrated structure is breathtaking and it well deserves its
reputation. Its noble columns, windows and arches are of exquisite
beauty. Many of the monarchs of Scotland are buried here and
recently the heart of Robert Bruce was reburied in the grounds after
it was discovered in its original lead container.
Stirling Castle
Stirling is one of Scotland's oldest towns. Its original
inhabitants lived at the foot of what is now the castle rock, living
off oysters and seafood. Later, the Romans occupied the strategic
castle hill. The town was granted a Royal Charter in the 12th
century and became one of the most important towns of medieval
Scotland. A visit to Stirling Castle is an essential part of any
visit to Scotland. Its location alone rivals even Edinburgh Castle
for sheer magnificence as it sits on its high volcanic rock, visible
for many miles in every direction. The castle overlooks some of the
most important battlefields in Scotland's history including where
William Wallace defeated the English in 1297 and Robert the Bruce's
defeat of the same foe in 1314. Rooms on view include the Great
Hall, which is the largest of its type ever built in Scotland. It
was intended for great celebrations and occasions of state and is
heated by five fireplaces.
Website: http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/stirling/stirlingcastle
Burns National Heritage Park
If you wish to embrace and explore the life and genius of one of
Scotlands greatest literary figures then the Burns National
Heritage Park is the place for you. Start at Burns Cottage and visit
the Burns Museum, a veritable treasure trove of manuscripts, books,
paintings and artifacts. The Tam OShanter experience brings Burns
most famous poem to life.
Website: http://www.robertburns.org
Culzean Castle & Country Park
Culzean is a romantic 18th century castle and one of the
most impressive stately homes in Scotland. It is perched high on
the cliff edge above the Firth of Clyde with ever-changing views
of Arran and the Ailsa Craig. It was designed by master
architect Robert Adam to replace the original 16th Century castle. The
present structure was completed in 1777 - 1792. The Oval Staircase, one
of his greatest achievements, is particularly striking. Every room
in the house is palatially decorated using the finest materials.
One bedroom is said to be haunted by a lady in green. Set in a
country park of over 500 acres with wooded walks, a swan pond, a new
adventure playground, walled gardens, visitor centre, shops and
restaurants - there is literally something for everyone.
Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/culzean.html
Scottish Mining Museum, Newtongrange, Midlothian
The Scottish Mining Museum allows the visitor to experience the
life and times of a coal miner. The museum is a wonderful day out
for all the family. The guides are former miners and they will give
you a true insight into life "down the pit." A typical day in the
life of a nineteenth century miner is portrayed in a series of award
winning scenes with life size figures and all the sights, sounds and
smells of the colliery. The museum's audio-visual show gives a
moving insight into the terrible conditions endured by men, women
and children working underground.
Website: http://www.scottishminingmuseum.com
Edinburgh
Check out our guide to the top ten attractions in
Edinburgh.
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