Places to Visit in Scotland
Vacation Ideas

A tour of the central part of the city is a great way to enjoy the wonderful historical architecture. Glasgow is a city of parks. They are everywhere and summer music concerts and show productions are a great way to enjoy the parks.

If you enjoy shopping and haggling for bargains, spend some time at the Barras. This is Scotland’s largest indoor market and it’s been the place to go for bargain hunters for over 100 years. Glasgow is famous for its excellent pubs, cafes, tearooms and eateries. Spend some time enjoying the wide variety of food and drink in downtown Glasgow.

The hilltop castle was built in the 11th century as a military fort and a royal residence. Take a guided tour of Scotland’s most famous church, St. Giles’ Cathedral. The oldest part was built in 1120 and much of the cathedral and its furnishings are from the 14th and 15th century. The National Museum of Scotland houses a huge collection of historical artifacts from Scotland’s long and interesting past.

Balloch Castle Country Park is the site of Balloch Castle, which was built in 1808. Here in the summer you can watch the Balloch Highland games, catch a musical concert or just enjoy the scenic Scottish countryside. The picturesque loch is dotted with small islands. Sweeny’s Cruises offers boat tours that take you around the islands. Visit the Hill House, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Many consider this to be his best. The house and gardens have commanding views of the countryside.

Many visitors enjoy water sports on the loch such as canoeing, water skiing, sailing, windsurfing and small boat cruising. A company called Can You Experience Loch Lomond offers guided canoe tours and boat & equipment rentals.

The Coastal Way is a track that allows you to circumvent the island giving you great views and passing through the coastal villages. Mountain biking trails cross overland and there are numerous spots for off-road biking for all skill levels.

A popular spot on the island is the Brodick Castle and Country Park. The castle dates from the Viking times and the park features a quiet setting of woods, trails, ponds. In spring the blossoming rhododendrons draw visitors to the park.

A great way to see the wildlife is with a tour company. One company, Western Isles Wildlife Tours offers guided wildlife tours that are tailored to the season and the specific wildlife that flourishes at that time of year.

The Outer Herbrides are also known for having the beast beaches in the country. In fact, the beach at Luskentyre, in South Harris is considered by many to be among the best beaches in Europe. The village of Callinish is the site of an important British monument, the 4,500 year old Standing Stone of Callinis.

Return from Places to Visit in Scotland to Best Places to Visit in Europe

Return from Places to Visit in Scotland to 1001 Vacation Ideas Home