towns to visit in scotland

The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour:  The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.

Planning tip:  Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.

Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.

Local tip:  Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland  (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.

Planning tip:  It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of  St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney  with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.

Planning tip:  Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.

Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip:  Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated November 2023

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19 Best Cities and Towns in Scotland to Visit + Map

We have already written an extensive guide on the most picturesque villages in Scotland . So, we thought it was about time that we put together some of the best towns and cities this country has to offer.

Scotland has no shortage of lively cities, from the crowded cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the epic music scene of Glasgow . Officially, Scotland has eight cities.

But the beauty of Scottish towns can rival any bustling hub, with its stunning setting in nature, hilltop views and ruined castles . 

So, whether you like buzzing cities or cosy small towns, we have rounded some of the best cities and towns to include in your Scotland itinerary.

Best cities and towns in Scotland

1. edinburgh.

The capital city of Scotland is steeped in hundreds of years of history. Also, the list of  things to do in Edinburgh  is extensive. 

The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh are UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city skyline is dominated by the iconic  Edinburgh Castle . It sits over an extinct volcanic plug. This mighty fortress was once the residence of the Scottish kings and queens.

For an awe-inspiring view of the city, climb to   Arthur’s Seat  or  Calton Hill .

Stroll along the colourful  Victoria Street , rumoured to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter books.

Make your way to the stunning  Dean Village , a peaceful oasis in this busy city. Take a short walk along the Water of Leith to reach the buzzing  Stockbridge . Search for  Circus Lane , one of the most picturesque streets in Edinburgh.

2. St Andrews

The charming town is famous for being the birthplace of golf – but also for its fascinating history, cultural scene and vast sandy beaches. There are plenty of tourist attractions in St Andrews to explore.

St Andrews Cathedral was once the largest church in the whole of Scotland. It was built in 1158 and became the centre of the catholic churches in Scotland. Some of the ruined towers still stand today.

Golf lovers will love a visit to the historic Old Course. It is known to be one of the oldest golf courses in the world.

This seaside town has two beautiful sandy beaches. Also, be sure to explore the medieval ruins of St Andrews Castle.

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and one of the biggest cities in the UK. There are plenty of  things to do and see in Glasgow  to keep your Scotland trip memorable.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the  best museums in Glasgow . It has an extensive collection of 8000 objects which include famous paintings, armour and ancient historical artefacts.

History buffs will love a visit to the Glasgow Cathedral. It is the oldest building in this city and should be a must-visit place on your  Glasgow itinerary .

For a beautiful panoramic view of the skyline, climb to the nearby Necropolis. This Victorian cemetery is a  hidden gem in Glasgow .

This city is renowned for its many colourful street art. You can follow the  Glasgow mural trail  to explore them. Also, Glasgow has the best nightlife in Scotland.

This bustling city is not too far from the famous  Loch Lomond and the Trossachs  National Park, which is the most popular  day trip destination from Glasgow .

4. Fort William

Known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK, this picturesque town is located on the shores of Loch Linnhe with mighty Ben Nevis in the backdrop. From hiking to wildlife spotting, there are many unmissable things to do in Fort William for a perfect holiday in nature.

There are numerous walking trails around this area for all abilities. Expert hikers will love to climb the iconic Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland and the UK.

Hop on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train, popularly known as the Hogwarts Express. It crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct on its way to the coastal town of Mallaig.

Enjoy a scenic gondola ride at Nevis Range. From the top, you will be greeted with some of the most stunning views over the town and the surrounding mountains and lochs.

Stroll around the Old Inverlochy Castle. It was built in the late 13th century.

5. Inverness

Inverness and the nearby Loch Ness are undoubtedly must-visit attractions for anyone visiting Scotland. From tranquil riverside walks to exploring the Victorian market, there are many exciting  places to visit in Inverness .

Known as the capital of the Highlands, Inverness is one of the smallest cities in Scotland.

Spend a day exploring the serene Loch Ness. Take a boat tour to spot Nessie, the famous Loch Ness monster. Don’t forget to visit the historic Urquhart Castle, one of the  best castles in Scotland .

Head up to Inverness Castle. From the castle viewpoint, you will get a stunning panoramic view of the city, River Ness and beyond.

Take a leisurely nature walk in the Ness Islands. Visit the Victorian Market in the city centre. The covered market is the home to a plethora of shops, cafes and restaurants.

6. Inveraray

Nestled on the western banks of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is one of the prettiest small towns in Scotland.

One of the main visitor attractions in Inveraray is the Inveraray Castle, the ancestral home of the chief of Clan Campbell. This fairytale dreamy building is one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland . After a visit to the castle, take a leisurely stroll around the surrounding gardens.

For a birds-eye view over this town and the surrounding landscapes, hike to the top of nearby Dun Na Cuaiche hill.

Take a tour of the Inveraray Jail, a historic 19th-century prison and courtroom turned living museum.

Also, walk along the shore of Loch Fyne and admire the serene beauty of this place. Watch out for wildlife in Loch Fyne, a designated Marine Protected Area in Scotland.

7. Stirling

This is one of the must-visit cities in Scotland. There are plenty of lovely things to do in Stirling .

Stirling Castle sits on an ancient volcanic crag. Most of the buildings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. It served as the residence of the Scottish monarchs in past centuries. 

Two important battles in Scottish history were fought near this historic city – Battle of Stirling Bridge and Battle of Bannockburn.

Another main tourist attraction in this city is the National Wallace Monument, an iconic  landmark of Scotland . It commemorates Sir William Wallace, a national hero. You can climb 246 steps to reach the viewing platform. The breathtaking panoramic view is well worth the effort.

Take a ramble around the Church of the Holy Rude and the adjacent cemetery. You can also follow the Back Walk. It’s a lovely walk around the old town walls and provides lovely views over the city.

Located on the shore of the Firth of Tay, Dundee is the fourth largest city in Scotland by population. It is known as the ‘City of Discovery’ owing to its glorious industrial past.

One of the main tourist attractions in Dundee is the V&A Dundee, the first design museum in Scotland. It showcases the Scottish creativity over the years. After all, Dundee was the UK’s first-ever UNESCO city of design.

Right next to V&A is the RRS Discovery, a historic ship built in Dundee. Captain Scott went on this ship to do the Antarctic expedition in 1901.

Browse through the priceless art and natural history collection of The McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum.

Stroll along the vibrant waterfront. Climb Dundee Law for a cracking view over the city, River Tay, Fife, and beyond.

9. Aviemore

Situated in the stunning Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is one of the best towns in Scotland for outdoor adventure activities. It is a popular site for skiing, hill walking and other winter sports. 

Also, Cairngorms is one of the best places to visit in Scotland .

Surrounded by magnificent mountains, scenic lochs and lush forests, this pretty town is an excellent base for travellers exploring the national park. 

Enjoy a thrilling funicular ride in the Cairngorms Mountain Resort. You will get a spectacular view of the Cairngorms mountain ranges.

Make a brief stop at the serene Loch Morlich, a freshwater loch surrounded by sandy beaches. Also, it is a popular spot for various water sports.

Aviemore is buzzing with various shops, cafes and restaurants. There are many hiking trails around this town.

10. Melrose

Located on the bank of River Tweed in the Scottish Borders, Melrose is one of the most historic towns in Scotland. It is the birthplace of Rugby Sevens.

One of the main tourist attractions in Melrose is the historic Melrose Abbey, which dates back to 1136. It faced significant destruction by the English army in 1385. Also, this magnificent ruin is the burial place of Robert the Bruce’s heart.

This pretty town sits next to the Eildon Hills, which is perfect for hillwalking. From the summit, you will get a magnificent view of Melrose and the surrounding rolling hills of Scottish Borders.

If you are visiting during summer, wander around the lovely Priorwood Garden and Harmony Garden.

Abbotsford House, the home of Sir Walter Scott, a legendary Scottish author, is not too far from this town. 

11. North Berwick

Located on the shore of the Firth of Forth, North Berwick is one of the most attractive coastal towns in Scotland.

It takes only 35 minutes to get here by train from Edinburgh, making North Berwick one of the best day trip destinations from Edinburgh .

The town centre is filled with cosy cafes, busy fish and chips shops, and restaurants.

Roam around the beautiful beaches, which boast picturesque views of the Firth of Forth, Bass Rock and the nearby islands. 

Take a look inside the Scottish Seabird Centre. From the harbour, catch a boat tour to the Bass Rock, the world’s largest colony of Northern gannets.

Climb North Berwick Law for a superb view over the town, Bass Rock and the sea. 

Tucked away in a sheltered bay on the Firth of Lorne, Oban is one of the largest towns on the West Coast of Scotland.

This coastal town is popularly known as the seafood capital of Scotland and the gateway to the Isles.

Oban has excellent ferry links to the islands of the Inner Hebrides. So, you can embark on an island-hopping adventure from here.

Climb to the McCaig’s Tower, which looks over this harbour town. The circular structure was built in 1897 by local banker John Stuart McCaig. Admire the stunning view over Oban Bay and the faraway islands.

Take a guided tour of the Oban Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. 

13. Aberdeen

Nicknamed the Granite City, Aberdeen sits in North East Scotland on the shore of the North Sea.

One of the main tourist attractions in Aberdeen is the gorgeous Aberdeen Beach. The golden sandy beach stretches for about two miles. It is a perfect place to spend a sunny summer day. 

Ramble around Footdee, a quaint fishing settlement in Aberdeen and a hidden gem of this city.

Make your way to the Aberdeen Art Gallery to admire one of the finest collections in the UK. 

Not too far from this bustling city is the magnificent Dunnottar Castle, one of the most dramatic  castles in Scotland .

There are many castles to explore in Aberdeenshire. The most famous one is perhaps the Balmoral Castle, the residence of the British royal family since 1852. It is located very close to  Braemar , one of the most beautiful  villages in Scotland .

14. Pitlochry

Surrounded by majestic mountains, mystical glens, atmospheric rivers and lochs, and dense forest, this Scottish town surely has an enviable setting.

Located in Perthshire on the River Tummel, Pitlochry is a nature lovers’ paradise. There are various scenic walking trails around this town. Ben Vrackie, Faskally Wood, Craigower and Killiecrankie are some of the popular hiking spots. 

Also, white water rafting, cycling, golfing, and fishing are very popular in this area.

You can’t miss a visit to the spectacular Queen’s View vantage point. You will get to admire one of the finest views of Scotland from here.

There are two distilleries close to this Victorian town – Blair Athol Distillery and Edradour Distillery. Whisky lovers can take a guided tour and tasting.

15. Falkirk

Falkirk is home to the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel. Located in the central belt of Scotland, this bustling town is one of the best places for a day trip from Glasgow .

Standing proudly in Helix Park, The Kelpies are two gigantic horse head sculptures made from steel and bronze. They are the world’s largest equine sculptures. Named after a Scottish mythological character, the Kelpies are one of the best tourist attractions in Scotland. Created by artist Andy Scott, it honours the horse-driven industrial heritage of this area.

Another must-visit attraction of this town is the Falkirk Wheel, the only rotating boat lift in the world. It joins the Forth & Clyde Canal to the Union Canal and lifts boats 115 ft above.

Sitting on the bank of River Tay, the ‘Fair City’ Perth is one of the eight cities of Scotland. It was once the capital of Scotland.

Take a tour of the historic Scone Palace, the ancestral home of the Earls of Mansfield. Many significant events in Scottish history took place in this palace. Several Scottish kings and queens were crowned on the Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny. Today, the stone resides in the Edinburgh Castle .

For a striking view over this city and the surrounding rolling hills of Perthshire, hike to Kinnoull Hill.

Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Perth Art Gallery. It features works of many famous modern Scottish artists.

17. Eyemouth

This small seaside town in the Scottish Borders has a picturesque harbour, rich wildlife and a dramatic coastline. 

The town of Eyemouth sits on the Berwickshire Coastal Path on the section from St Abbs to Berwick.

Meander around the Eyemouth pier. The colourful fishing boats are very photogenic. Watch out for seals. They are frequently spotted here playing. 

The town centre is buzzing with many cafes, seafood restaurants and shops. 

Take a tour of the Gunsgreen House. It was once a notorious smuggling spot. Other illicit trades also used to take place here in past centuries. 

You can take a boat trip to explore the stunning coastline of Berwickshire. We would also highly recommend a short trip to the nearby village of St Abbs.

Ayr is a popular seaside town on the southwest coast of Scotland. You can visit Ayr on a day trip from Glasgow .

This bustling town is famous for its long sandy beach. It’s a perfect spot for a family beach day and on hot summer days, it gets very busy with people coming from Glasgow and nearby areas. There are restaurants, an entertainment centre and a children’s play area along the promenade.

This town is famous for its connection to Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland. He was born in Alloway, on the outskirts of Ayr.

Fans of the bard would love a visit to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. Also, Take a stroll around the picturesque Brig o’Doon, immortalised in Burns’s poem.

Make a short trip to visit the lovely Culzean Castle, not very far from Ayr. 

19. Kirkcudbright

Located on the Solway Coast within Dumfries and Galloway in southwest Scotland, Kirkcudbright is a pretty harbour town. 

Its picturesque setting has attracted many notable artists and creative personalities over the years, including Francis Cadell and Samuel Peploe from the Scottish Colourists and the Glasgow Boys, who lived and worked here. Today, Kirkcudbright is known as the Artists’ Town.

Kirkcudbright Galleries houses an extensive collection of works by local artists. Here, you can find paintings and drawings as well as silver jewellery, book illustrations and ceramics.

Culture lovers will enjoy a visit to the Broughton House & Garden, home of Reputed Scottish painter Edward Atkinson Hornel. Inside, you will find many paintings, photographs and sculptures. Take a look at Hornel’s studio as well. Later, stroll around the beautiful Japanese-inspired garden.

Map of the Best Towns and Cities of Scotland

Here is a map of all the lovely towns and cities mentioned in this travel guide. Click on the link to open this on Google Maps. You could save it to use later.

We hope this article has motivated you to travel to Scotland and explore all these places for yourself.

Love, Sankha and Moumita.

1 thought on “19 Best Cities and Towns in Scotland to Visit + Map”

Fantastic mooie site.voor Schotland bezoekers zoals wij uit Nederland. Gaan in mei dit jaar weer richting ons geliefd Schotland😊

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The 20 most charming towns in Scotland

Few countries are quite so thoroughly beautiful and charming as Scotland is, which is why TravelMag polled over 300 travel professionals to discover what they think the best town in Scotland is. We heard from writers, photographers and selected members of the tourism industry with a love for all things Scottish, in naming their three favourite towns in Scotland.

The Kelpies outside Falkirk (Photo: Paul Stafford)

At TravelMag we have a soft spot for Scotland. The country’s stunning diversity of natural vistas compete for attention with commanding cities and quaint towns everywhere between the Mull of Galloway in the south and the Shetland Islands in the north. It is a truly beautiful country, and that got us wondering what people who know it well consider to be the pinnacles of the Scottish urban experience.

Naturally cities spring to mind immediately. The artistic grace of historic Edinburgh, or the sincerity and forthrightness of Glasgow; the Highland capital of Inverness and the granite black goldmine of Aberdeen; these are all excellent choices to explore for a couple of days. But they’re the low-hanging fruit of the Caledonian experience. Gateways, and ornate ones at that, but gateways none-the-less, to a much more authentic and personal experience of Scotland. Therefore, this list aims to examine what the best small towns in Scotland to visit are.

The charm of Scotland comes predominantly from the people, and it is generally accepted that the smaller the town, the stronger the sense of community. As such, it makes sense for this exercise in assisted bucket-list construction to hone in on the country’s towns. For the sake of order and sanity, we tried not to include any villages, although a couple sneak onto the list by popular demand. While we have undoubtedly missed off some corkers, below you will find the 20 charming Scottish towns that accumulated the most votes, presented from A to Z (well, technically U).

Not the only entrant on this list from the East Neuk of Fife, a region of coastline that has more than its fair share of quaint fishing towns, Anstruther is the place to go if you have an affinity for all things maritime. During the warmer months, boat trips out to the Isle of May bring you closer to the natural world. The region is great for bird spotting, with large colonies of puffins. Keep your eye out too for unusual shaped rocks, which are most likely lounging seals, taking a break from the water. Back in town, the Scottish Fisheries Museum raids the annals of history to reconstruct what was once the area’s primary industry before tourism took that mantle. A few fisherfolk still operate from the harbour, and the results of their catches can be sampled at Anstruther Fish Bar, one of Scotland’s most celebrated fish and chips shops.

Anstruther Chip Shop (Photo: Magnus Hagdorn via Flickr)

Broughty Ferry

First gaining prominence as a defensive settlement at the mouth of the River Tay estuary in the 15 th century, Broughty Castle still cuts a poised figure by the water’s edge. As the centuries passed however, wealthy citizens of Dundee, the city Broughty Ferry helped to protect, began using the quiet seaside idyll as a place to build their mansions. The production of jute in British India had made many people in Dundee, four miles away, incredibly wealthy. Both the jute industry and the need for fortification may have waned but the town retains much of the affluent charm, with boutique shopping, galleries and fine dining all available in the town centre. There is a good museum at the castle with exhibits about local history and a particularly interesting one about Dundee’s former whaling industry. There’s also a sandy beach, but it being Scotland, traditional beach activities are restricted for most of the year.

Broughty Ferry sunset (Photo: dun_deagh via Flickr)

For over a century, Crieff has been well-established as an important tourist centre in Scotland. It acts as a gateway to the rolling hills of Perthshire and a moderate walk up to the top of Knock Hill is the best way to appreciate the surroundings. Although the great Scottish outdoors are wonderful at any time of year, and constantly changing, the autumnal show is the most enthralling. Crieff town is lovely and is dominated by independent and family-run businesses, which is always an endearing quality in more popular tourist spots. Crieff is home to one of Scotland’s most popular blended whisky brands, The Famous Grouse. Themed grouse tours take place at Glenturret distillery, which has produced single malt whiskies since an impressive 1775. The beautiful Renaissance gardens of Drummond Castle, one of the best sights in the whole region, are also just a couple of miles outside of Crieff.

The countryside around Crieff (Photo: SwaloPhoto via Flickr)

Cromarty is home to one of Britain’s more unusual film festivals: Every December spaces around the small town are transformed into film venues. Even Cromarty Lighthouse becomes a canvas, as short films are projected onto the side of it. The town came to gain importance as a point along the coastal route north of Inverness. It is also strategically located at the narrow inlet of the Cromarty Firth. At certain times it is possible to see huge oil rigs that are not in service to be moored up in these sheltered waters. A walk around the quiet streets takes you past pretty waterfront cottages, painted white. Places of note include Cromarty Courthouse, which holds a small community-run museum that provides an intriguing glimpse into the working of an 18 th century courtroom. Close by is Hugh Miller’s House, National Trust for Scotland-operated buildings that show a glimpse into the life of the 19 th century geologist and contentious church reformer.

Cromarty (Photo: Gideon Chilton via Flickr)

As one of the bigger towns to make this list, Falkirk blends the modern and historic to showcase perfectly the past and present of Scotland. In terms of history, one of the most significant events was the Battle of Falkirk in 1298, in which William Wallace’s army was defeated by Kind Edward I of England. Although the exact battlefield location is contended, the grave of Sir John Stewart of Bonkyll, who commanded the Scots bowmen in that battle, can be found in Falkirk Trinity Church in the town centre. Callendar House is a beautiful manor house with medieval towers. Here the Antonine Wall, built by the Romans, runs through the grounds, although the tree-covered mound of earth is hardly recognisable as a man-made fortification anymore. To the north, The Kelpies are two remarkable 30-metre horse head sculptures beside the Forth and Clyde Canal. Follow this canal all the way to the west of town to reach a juxtaposition of modern and old with the Falkirk Wheel, an engineering work of art that rotates boats to lift them up to a separate canal, the Union.

Callendar house in Falkirk (Photo: Paul Stafford)

Fort William

The Scottish Highlands are captivating and world renowned for their natural beauty, but they have fostered some lovely towns as well, Fort William being one of them. Due to its proximity to Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in Britain), Glencoe and the head of Loch Linnhe, a sea loch, Fort William has become a hub for outdoors enthusiasts of all kinds. As such, services for hikers and mountain bikers are especially prevalent in town. The West Highland Way and Great Glen Way, both popular hiking routes, have Fort William as a terminus. In town, there are plenty of great bars and restaurants overlooking the water, and the West Highland Museum tells the story of the Jacobites who tried, and ultimately failed, to take the town in 1746. There are also anthropological and natural exhibits that examine the wider West Highland region.

A steam engine arrives at Fort William station (Photo: Jacques Dufrenoy via Flickr)

Walter Scott was the master blender of the refined whisky that is modern Scotland’s national image. Regardless of your stance on the Walter Scottification of Scotland, the man’s legacy seeps into the global perception of Scotland more often than not; so when Kelso was dubbed by Scott the “most beautiful if not the most romantic village in Scotland,” many people took notice. Kelso was where Scott attended school for a while and where his writings were first published. Now a small town, Kelso is more than its early association with Scott however. The handsome Kelso Abbey ruins date back to around the 12 th century. The site was an important religious centre before falling into ruin after the Scottish Reformation. The ruins overlook the confluence of the Teviot and Tweed Rivers, the latter forming a pleasant valley of gentle countryside. Floors Castle is the seat of the Duke of Roxburghe, and the country house’s turrets give the impressive building a commanding presence. Although Floors Castle is still inhabited, parts are open to the public.

Kelso centre (Photo: Son of Groucho via Flickr)

Kirkcudbright

The first thing you should know about Kirkcudbright is how to pronounce the name. Ker-coo-bree is about right, and it is the only complicated thing about this pleasant, working harbour town. Colourful fishing boats leave Kirkcudbright’s marina of a morning and return laden with fresh catches each day, making it one of the busier fishing ports in Scotland. The town, set back from the Dumfries and Galloway coast on the estuary of the River Dee (one of many Rivers Dee in the UK), is also known for its link to the Glasgow art world roughly between 1880-1980, when a number of notable artists established themselves in town, forming the Kirkcudbright Artists’ Colony. The link has dulled somewhat today but two good galleries, Tolbooth Art Centre and Harbour Cottage Gallery remain. Among the other sights in town, MacLellan’s Castle stands out, literally, as a pleasant ruined castle that has been gradually surrounded by terraced houses over the decades.

House in Kirkcudbright (Photo: Beth via Flickr)

One of the best day trips from Glasgow for families has long been the seaside Cumbrae Island town of Millport. Sprinkled along gently curving Newtown Bay this small town of 1200 people is very much the terrier of this list, as there have been moves in the last decade to seek city status. If that sounds ridiculous, the legitimacy of such a bid lies in the claim that Millport has Britain’s smallest cathedral. Most places with a cathedral have city status, the smallest officially being St. Davids in Wales, with a population of 2000. The Cathedral of the Isles, as it is called, only holds 80 people in its nave and was built relatively recently as far as cathedrals in Britain go. Various sources report different years of completion ranging between the 1850s and 1870s. For now, Millport remains a town, which is easily reached by ferry from Largs on the mainland. The centrepiece of the town is the lovely Garrison House, which has a good local museum and tearoom.

Millport’s Cathedral of the Isles in spring (Photo: Karen Brodie via Millport.org)

North Berwick

Yet another seaside town proves that you don’t need daily doses of sun to be a popular destination in Scotland. North Berwick has been voted one of the best towns in Scotland for a number of reasons. While its proximity to Edinburgh helps drive conventional tourism, the town is flanked by separate golf courses too. North Berwick’s location, where the Firth of Forth empties into the North Sea, is particularly welcoming to bird life, which in turn draws avid nature lovers to the region; some way offshore to the east of town, Bass rock holds one of the largest gannet colonies in the world. Back in town, at the tip of a natural promontory, is the Scottish Seabird Centre. Taking a boat trip out to the islands is a popular activity, as is ambling along the seafront past the pretty Edwardian houses before getting some good local fish and chips.

Bass Rock near North Berwick (Photo: go elsewhere… via Flickr)

­­­ Oban styles itself as the seafood capital of Scotland, but you don’t need to eat fish to appreciate this wonderful west coast town. One of Scotland’s main ferry ports (and gateway to both the Inner and Outer Hebrides), Oban’s population can triple during the main holiday season. Around town there are opportunities for sea kayaking, hiking and cycling. The town itself is not too old, despite, like many parts of Scotland, there being evidence of human habitation in the region dating back to the Bronze Age. In fact, Oban’s growth was thanks to whisky; Oban Distillery was established in 1794 and has a visitors’ centre open to the public. For good views over the water, walk up to McCaig’s Tower, a prominent feature that dominates Oban and looks somewhat like an unfinished colosseum. It was in fact the passion project of John Stuart McCaig, a local philanthropist who wanted to keep local stonemasons in work during the winter while leaving behind a family legacy.

Oban from the water (Photo: Stephen Archer via Flickr)

Perthshire’s northern frontier borders the Highlands, with Pitlochry offering one of the best bases from which to explore the nearby mountains. It is a good starting point for hiking both Ben Vrackie and Schiehallion. The occasional glimpses of Scottish Baronial architecture from the Victorian era can still be seen in town. Queen Victoria was believed to be a fan of the town and through the decades many others have followed suit; coming for the various castles, distilleries and natural sights that dot the fringes of town. Cairngorms National Park is just a few miles to the north and the range of sports and activities in the local area, which include bungee jumping and white-water rafting, means that many people visit Pitlochry with many a purpose.

The main street in Pitlochry (Photo: Paula Funnell via Flickr)

For many who have visited the East Neuk of Fife, a region of coast on the north side of the Firth of Forth, Pittenweem, even more than Anstruther, embodies the quaint fishing village vibe more than any other. It is important to note here that inhabitants of each East Neuk town will of course argue this statement and all will have a good point. In Pittenweem however, unlike some of the other ports, fishing is still commonplace, with a fish market each morning, and shoals of colourful fishing boats moored in the protective harbour. Many of the shops are still locally-run and there are sites in town dating back to the 8 th century, including the hermit cave of an aging St Fillan, an Irish missionary who left relics of his work all over Scotland.

Pittenweem Harbour (Photo: James Stringer via Flickr)

Around Plockton, the landscape rears up out of Loch Carron in whorls of rock and forest. The land changes colour according to the season and yet the village (one of only two that make this list) is spared the onslaught of the prevailing winds that shape the Highlands in these parts. Sailing boats bob on the waves, at the same time delicate and robust. Plockton announces itself in the form of a row of pretty, painted cottages that do not betray the hardship visited upon the village’s residents in many guises; potato famine, Highland clearances and the boom and rapid bust of local herring fishing have all had their impact. It is tourism that has really buoyed Plockton however, with seal watching trips and pleasant gardens being particularly popular enticements.

Plockton (Photo: Alexandre Dulaunoy via Flickr)

Considered the capital of Skye, the island beloved by many a tourist, Portree is a pleasant town built by a sheltered sea inlet. The photogenic row of houses lining the edge of a large rocky protrusion known affectionately as The Lump, are perhaps one of the more popular features of the town. For others, Portree is simply a good place to rest and refuel before pressing on to wilder and more rugged quarters of Skye. Although the town’s population barely peaks above 4000, there are lots of good hotels and practically every other house is a Bed & Breakfast. A good range of shops and cafes are complemented by the excellent tourist information office. Additionally, the Aros Centre has great cultural programmes and is worth checking to see if there are any events on during your stay.

Portree (Photo: Paul Stafford)

St. Andrews

Golf is synonymous with St. Andrews and many people will insist that the globally popular 18-hole game was invented right here in Fife. Like most sports, there were most likely antecedents in many reaches of the globe, but the global consensus suggests that the modern game emanates from St. Andrews and The Open Championship is frequently held at the Old Course, which dates to 1552. But St. Andrews is not all clubs and balls. The town’s University is one of the best in Britain and students account for at least one in three residents of a town whose history stretches back much more than a millennium. St. Andrews Castle, now little more than a ruin with a sea view, was built in the 12 th century. There are medieval streets and museums aplenty to keep anybody up and about on their feet, golf club in hard or not.

St. Andrews Cathedral (Photo: Neil Howard via Flickr)

While most of the towns on this list are located on the mainland, Stornoway is a little trickier to reach. The Outer Hebridean town is the main urban centre of Lewis & Harris and home to the popular Lews Castle that was built in the mid-19 th century for James Matheson with money he made during the opium trade in China. Matheson also owned the entire island and came back to settle during his later life. There is also a museum outlining the island’s history and providing an exhibition that explores the community’s relationship with both land and sea. Every year in July the town hosts one of the best Celtic music festivals in Scotland. The town has some excellent pubs and restaurants on and around the harbour front, as well as shops selling the famous Harris tweed, which is handmade on the island, and then adapted to various items of clothing and upholstery.

Lews Castle in Stornoway (Photo: First Minister of Scotland via Flickr)

Perhaps the most remote town on our list of the best towns in Scotland, Stromness may not be the Orcadian capital, but it is the most popular. Some say that if arriving by ferry in the Bay of Hamnavoe, Stromness looks much like it would have done a few hundred years ago. Once upon a time it was the last port of call for trans-Atlantic sea voyages. On terra firma , the town is a joy to explore, with winding, enclosed streets lined with shops and hotels. Stromness Museum’s collection suggests as close an affinity with Iceland and Greenland’s Inuit as there is with London, and the occasional whalebone entryway to houses provides a reminder that whales have not always been a protected species in the waters around the British Isles. Some of Scotland’s best Neolithic sites are easily reached from Stromness, including Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar.

Stromness Harbour (Photo: Tash Scott via Flickr)

Tobermory is a small town, with a population of 1000 people. The town’s impeccably presented main road consists of buildings painted all sorts of colours from pastel green to bright sunshine yellow. When viewed from across the harbour on a calm day it is a particularly arresting sight. The capital of the Isle of Mull may even be one of the best-known towns among one to five-year old children, as it was the setting for BBC show Balamory. Despite the early indoctrination, Tobermory is well-deserving of its spot on this list. There are some good places to find fresh fish, Sgriob-ruadh Farm makes some excellent cheese and the Tobermory distillery in town has been producing whisky for more than 200 years. Many people use Tobermory as a gateway to Mull thanks to the Oban ferry link. Sea kayaking and hiking are popular activities.

Tobermory (Photo: Vanvelthem Lionel via Flickr)

A population of 1500 may make Ullapool sound diminutive, but it is one of the largest settlements for miles around. Located on the shores of Loch Broom, Ullapool feels like a self-contained settlement, and is certainly a very laid-back town. It was designed by the eminent civil engineer Thomas Telford who designed bridges and aqueducts that can be found all over Scotland. Ullapool looks particularly pretty when accessed from the south by road; although the town is on relatively flat land, it is surrounded by sweeping hills that plunge right down to the loch in many places. Near the harbour you can get excellent fish and chips to eat along the waterfront. Although there is not a great deal to do in town, Ullapool Museum is housed in an old church designed by Telford and provides insight into the local area’s history and heritage.

Ullapool Harbour (Photo: Paul Stafford)

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8 Best Small Towns in Scotland — From Bucolic Islands to the Rugged Highlands

Striking castles, stunning scenery, fascinating history, and much more await in these beautiful small towns in Scotland.

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

Celebrated for its deep, fascinating history, striking mountains, stately castles , and misty lochs — not to mention its mythological monsters — Scotland is arguably the most ruggedly beautiful of all four United Kingdom nations. Like its southern neighbor, England, it has its fair share of major cities — Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Glasgow, to name a few — but there's also a wealth of smaller gems scattered across the glens and valleys of its incredible landscape — if you know where to look.

Whether you're seeking the finest dram of whisky (it's been distilled here since the 15th century and always spelled without an "e" to set it apart from the American stuff) or simply want a break from the grind in some spectacularly romantic surrounds, these are the small towns in Scotland you should add to your next U.K. itinerary. (Kilt and sporran optional).

Fort Augustus, Lochaber

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

Perched at the southwest end of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus began as an 18th-century military garrison, but today it's at the heart of an entirely different battle: the fight to prove the existence of Nessie. Come here to enjoy a cruise on the most famous of all the Scottish lochs, scouring the surface for telltale signs of the cryptozoological monster, before checking out the town's 19th-century abbey and learning about Highlands culture at the Clansman Centre . Fort Augustus is also a superb jumping-off point for road trips into the bucolic, heather-strewn mountains of the deeper Highlands .

Killin, Loch Tay

An easy drive from the historic city of Stirling, Killin is a popular spot for sailing and kayaking on dazzling Loch Tay. It's also home to the Falls of Dochart , a cascade of waterfalls at the western end of the loch, where locals sprawl on the rocks in the summer months, pint or picnic in hand. The town boasts several great places to stay and eat, as well as the fascinating Breadalbane Folklore Centre , dedicated to the myths and legends of the area. Other sightseeing opportunities include the ruins of Finlarig Castle , where you can also explore a traditional Scottish longhouse. The fantastic hiking on nearby mountain Beinn Ghlas is also well worth experiencing.

Tobermory, Isle of Mull

The idyllic capital of the Isle of Mull, Tobermory is famed for its rainbow-hued houses, single malt whisky, and picturesque fishing port — one of the most beautiful in Scotland. Getting to this lovely bolthole in Scotland's Inner Hebrides is all part of the adventure, with ferries from the mainland (Kilchoan) taking 35 minutes. Private water taxis are another option. Once you're in Tobermory, you'll find a great selection of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and old-fashioned inns to explore — just don't leave without buying one of the famous ceramic water jugs from the Tobermory Distillery (and a bottle of whisky to go with it, naturally).

Braemar, Aberdeenshire

A pretty little village in a grand location, Braemar has strong royal connections. For starters, Balmoral Castle , the late Queen Elizabeth's beloved Scottish retreat, is just a few miles down the road and open to the public when it's not being lived in. (It also offers holiday cottages for rent inside the grounds.) Secondly, Braemar is home to the legendary Braemar Gathering , a traditional Highland Games contest that takes place in September and has been attended by the British royal family since the 1840s. Otherwise, there are two ancient castles to explore and the Highland Games Centre for those interested in charting the roots and rules of some of the strangest Scottish sports.

Plockton, Lochalsh

If pastoral Plockton, with its charming cottages surrounding an idyllic bay, looks like a film set, that's because it was. This little slice of paradise was the backdrop for the 1973 classic horror movie "The Wicker Man" and, more recently, the popular British drama series Hamish Macbeth .

The unique microclimate in this sunny pocket of Scotland's western coast means that, bizarrely, tropical palms line the waterfront. From here, you can even rent sea kayaks or join wildlife-watching cruises to spot seals and otters. Meanwhile, just south of Plockton, you'll find the Kyle of Lochalsh railway line — one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the U.K.

Roslin, Midlothian

One of the top day trip destinations from Edinburgh (an easy seven-mile bus ride away), little Roslin is home to Scotland's most beautiful and enigmatic church, Rosslyn Chapel . The 15th-century Gothic masterpiece, adorned with elaborate flourishes and symbolic images, is one of the most romantic spots in the country, immortalized first by William Wordsworth and later by Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code." While you're in town, check out the rugged ruins of Roslin Castle and the hiking trails of Pentland Hills , which reward with amazing views of Edinburgh's venerable skyline.

Portree, Isle of Skye

The largest and liveliest town on the famed Isle of Skye, Portree is known for its cliff-fringed harbor, congenial pubs, and the Aros Centre , which showcases traditional Gaelic dance, music, and art. Skye is easily accessible from mainland Scotland via a modern road bridge, and Portree is the perfect base to explore one of the country's most celebrated islands — a renowned hiking and wildlife-spotting paradise.

Kelso, Roxburghshire

A charmer of a town just a stone's throw from the English border, Kelso has a cheery, welcoming feel and boasts one of the finest Georgian houses in the U.K., Floors Castle (don't miss the walled garden — a particular highlight of the extensive grounds). Built around the statuesque ruins of a 12th-century abbey and situated at the confluence of two great rivers — the Tweed and Teviot — Sir Walter Scott proclaimed Kelso the most beautiful of all Scottish towns.

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21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Home » Blog » Europe » Scotland » 21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

We’ve put together this guide of the best places to visit in Scotland so you can plan the perfect itinerary. From the medieval castles to cosmopolitan cities, this list covers all interests to make your Scottish holiday a trip to remember.

With rolling hills, quaint villages, hidden waterfalls, and rugged coastline, there are so many incredible places to visit in Scotland that will make you fall in love. 

And the really wonderful thing about Scotland is that most places are very close together, meaning you can see a lot of the country in one visit and you won’t have to drive very far.

We’ve rounded up some of the very best places in Scotland to put on your itinerary and bring you one step closer to planning the perfect trip.

For each place, we’re going to share the best things to do and where to stay, so grab a mug of coffee (or a glass of Scotch) and get your pen and paper ready to create a plan!

Scotland Travel Guide

We’ve also included some helpful resources for planning your trip to Scotland…

Scotland itinerary

• What to pack for Scotland

Top places to visit in Scotland

If you’re looking for the very best places to visit in Scotland, here are our top recommendations. 

• Isle of Skye

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these cities and more ideas for cool places to visit in Scotland. 

Trying to decide whether to visit Ireland or Scotland? You’re not alone! We’ve done both, and we have a whole guide where we compare the two and give our personal recommendation on the Scotland vs. Ireland debate.

1. Edinburgh

History, iconic sights and stunning architecture

Scotland’s capital city may be the second largest by population, but there’s no denying that the cultural experience in Edinburgh is second to none. Hundreds of thousands of people flock from all over the world to visit this city for plenty of reasons.

After all, this city inspired J.K. Rowling’s enchanting world in the Harry Potter books! Which isn’t at all surprising when you take in the cobblestone streets, charming small town feel and Gothic and Medieval architecture abound.

Head into the medieval old town to learn about the interesting history and see some of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh. 

The new town is filled with more modern Georgian architecture, tons of restaurants and Princes Street, the main shopping street that is overlooked by the castle.

Fun fact: The city even boasts the highest number of restaurants per capita in the UK! 

The best part about Edinburgh is that most of the historical tourist attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. You could spend days here and still not run out of things to do. It’s easy to see why Edinburgh is one of the top places to visit in Scotland.

• Things to do in Edinburgh

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Edinburgh , but here are some highlights:

• You can’t visit Edinburgh and not take a wander around Edinburgh Castle.
• Wander up Calton Hill just at the top of Princes Street and take in beautiful views over the city and beyond.
• Visit Mary Kings Close, a hidden street underneath the city that allows you to experience what life was like back in the 16th and 17th century in Edinburgh.
• Hike to Arthur’s Seat atop an extinct volcano.
• Visit the Elephant House and see where J.K. Rowling penned the Harry Potter books. (Oh and visit the nearby Greyfriars Kirkyard and see how many character names you can find amongst the headstones.)
• Pop around to local pubs and try some typical Scottish foods like haggis, black pudding, and sticky toffee pudding!
• Indulge in afternoon tea , a time honored tradition in the UK. 
• Explore Dean Village , Edinburgh’s cutest neighborhood.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Linton Collection – Blackfriars Lofts : Constructed in a former church dating back to 1871, this unique accommodation comes well-equipped with everything you need including a kitchenette, dining area and high speed wifi. 

This is where we stayed and we HIGHLY recommend it. Perfect location. Super cute and comfortable.

The Dunstane Houses : Nestled in the vibrant West End, this hotel is actually made up of two 1852 Victorian townhouses. It’s in a highly walkable area and offers upscale amenities, plus free parking (not common in the city!). The onsite bar has a fantastic selection of whiskey and gin, and offers tastings of both.

Edinburgh Backpackers Hostel : Situated in the heart of the old town on Cockburn Street, you couldn’t get any closer to the city center if you tried. With plenty of things to see, do and places to eat nearby it’s a great affordable option for exploring this magical city.

Psst! If hotel stays aren’t your thing, we have a curated list of the  best Edinburgh Airbnbs  for you to browse!

Music, culture, shopping and university vibes

Just 50 miles west of Edinburgh, Glasgow feels a world different.

A little grittier than Edinburgh at first glance, Glasgow isn’t as storybook-pretty as its neighbor to the east; but it makes up for it in other ways. 

Glasgow has the largest population of any city in Scotland, and most Scottish people we’ve spoken to claim it’s their favorite.

Perhaps it’s the fact that it doesn’t feel as saturated with tourists as Edinburgh. Or maybe it’s the enchanting combination of art, music and food. Perhaps it’s the vibe of a cool university city that’s hard to put into words…

Whatever the allure for you, we think Glasgow is definitely worth a gander. For us, it took a bit longer to really get it (whereas with Edinburgh, we fell in love immediately). But now we’re already itching to get back and explore more.

• Things to do in Glasgow

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Glasgow , but here are some highlights:

• Take a Scottish food tour – we loved ours!
• Walk through the cloisters on the University of Glasgow campus.
• Indulge in a doughnut (or three!) at Tantrum Doughnuts .
• Walk through Kelvingrove Park.
• Bonus: it’s free to explore!
• Share several dishes in a family-style meal at Ubiquitous Chip , located on the charming Ashton Lane in the trendy West End neighborhood.
• If you’re visiting on a weekend, head to The Barras and browse the hundreds of stalls where merchants and artisans sell their wares.
• FYI: The trail is 96 miles and takes roughly 7 days, but if you don’t have the time (or stamina!), just hike as long as you’d like before turning around.
• Hike Finnich Glen to the Devil’s Pulpit rock , through a lush green gorge with otherworldly crimson red, swift-moving water, just north of Glasgow.

Where to stay in Glasgow

CitizenM : If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Glasgow that’s completely different to anywhere else in the city, then definitely check out this digitally advanced, space-saving hotel. (The beds literally go from wall to wall.) It’s located right in the city center and just minutes walk from the bus station and main shopping.

voco Grand Central : In the heart of the city’s shopping district at Glasgow Central Station, the main transportation hub, this grand hotel is a local icon. The historic 1880s building is a sight to behold in its own right, and the convenient location makes it an easy choice. 

Euro Hotel Glasgow : A budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Glasgow, including surprising perks such as free wi-fi, a view overlooking the River Clyde, a game room with pool tables, and an onsite restaurant and bike rental shop. There’s a variety of room types to choose from, including private rooms and dormitories.

3. Isle of Skye

Rugged natural landscapes, picturesque hikes, and medieval castles

Renowned for its breathtaking and dramatic scenery, Isle of Skye is easily one of the best places to visit in Scotland. 

As the northernmost major island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, Skye embodies everything Scotland is so famous for. You’ll encounter rugged coastline dotted with quaint fishing villages, sprawling medieval castles, and lush green hills and cliffs in every direction. 

Needless to say, Isle of Skye is a bucket list-worthy destination, especially for nature lovers. The hiking here is straight out of a fairytale. You’ll find endless places to explore and there are also plenty of unique places to eat and stay.

We put together the ultimate guide to the Isle of Skye , which includes everything you need to know about planning your visit from essential tips to all the top attractions and fun things to do. Be sure to check out our guide and bookmark it to save for your travel planning!

To give you a little taste, here are some of the highlights…

Things to do in the Isle of Skye

• Start your day with a caffeine kick at Lean To Coffee .
• Hike the Old Man of Storr trail .
• Make the walk to the iconic Skye Fairy Pools .
• Wander Fairy Glen at sunset.
• See the Quiraing viewpoint and take the hike, if your heart desires.
• Peep Dunvegan Castle from afar, or take a tour inside.
• Walk up to the Duirinish Stone and pretend you’re in Outlander.
• See Scottish Highland cows at this viewpoint .

Where to stay in Isle of Skye

Viewfield House : Located in Portree, this lovely B&B makes a great homebase. In addition to a full Scottish breakfast, guests can enjoy the onsite bar, large fireplace in the common area, and fast wi-fi. The property sits on 20 acres, so it feels secluded, yet it’s within easy walking distance of Portree proper. 

Sligachan Hotel : Tucked into rural farmland on a scenic loch in Sconser, this hotel is in one of the best places to visit in Scotland if you’re hoping to spot Highland cows. The property is right next to the iconic Sligachan Old Bridge and less than 30 minutes from the Fairy Pools, plus it has its own micro-brewery and whiskey bar onsite. 

Kinloch Campsite : If you are planning to go camping in Scotland , it doesn’t get much better than this small campground overlooking Loch Dunvegan (yep — Dunvegan Castle is just minutes away!). Campsites can accommodate tents, campervans, or motorhomes, and they’re thoughtfully tiered so everyone has a great view. Amenities include free hot showers and free wi-fi.

Looking for a way to fit all of this in one trip?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

4. Inverness

Cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands

As the northernmost city in Scotland, Inverness offers a unique experience that combines the natural beauty of The Highlands with a modern city. In fact, more than one-third of The Highlands’ entire population lives in the Inverness metro area. The city is small, but rapidly changing as it’s one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. 

Inverness has all the modern amenities one could possibly need, while still providing easy access to Scotland’s beautiful mountains, lochs, and scenery of The Highlands. There is no shortage of castles, churches and cathedrals, distilleries, and historical sites to explore.

This beautiful city is also one of the best places to visit in Scotland because it’s the place where the North Coast 500 begins. (More on that in #12!)

Things to do in Inverness

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Inverness , but here are some highlights:

• Enjoy a 3-course lunch at The Mustard Seed .
• Get lost in Leakey’s Bookshop .
• Walk the path around Ness Islands.
• Grab a coffee and breakfast at Velocity Cafe & Bicycle Workshop .
• See live music at Hootenanny .
• Indulge in a doughnut and cappuccino by day or an espresso martini by night at Perk Cafe .
• Glimpse Inverness Castle from the outside (it’s currently undergoing renovations, and closed to the public).
• If you’re a history buff, a visit to the Culloden Battlefield will likely be something you won’t want to miss.
• Outlander fans will recognize the stones at Clara Cairns

Where to stay in Inverness

Inverness Student Hotel : Tucked into the city center, this riverside hostel is both cozy and affordable. Dormitory-style rooms have 5-10 beds and the common area features a huge fireplace, river views, a shared kitchen, and complimentary coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. 

Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel : Sitting right on the banks of the River Ness and just steps from the heart of the city, this chic hotel is the perfect jumping-off point for several places to visit in Scotland. The fast wi-fi and free parking are nice, but the real attraction is the extensive whisky bar, with nearly 300 varieties.

Camping Pod Heaven : For truly unique accommodation in Inverness, Camping Pod Heaven combines all the best aspects of camping and more luxurious “glamping.” The pods each sleep four and include mattresses, heat, electrical sockets, and wi-fi. Just bring bedding and cooking supplies!

Psst! Read up on our guide to glamping in Scotland if you want more information on this unique style accommodation that’s become super popular.

5. Loch Ness

Home of the folklore, the Loch Ness Monster (or “Nessie” for short)

It’s impossible to list the best places to visit in Scotland without mentioning Loch Ness. The storied home of the Loch Ness Monster, the world’s most famous mythical creature, this gorgeous loch near Inverness is full of intrigue. 

Although local folklore about Nessie dates back to the year 565 AD, it’s so elusive that the first real sighting (and photograph) wasn’t until 1933. Since then, there have been countless reports of something lurking in the water, but only a handful accompanied by photo or video proof. 

Needless to say, the “monster” is a theme woven into many attractions and even aspects of day-to-day life in Loch Ness, but even if you’re not necessarily a believer, there are plenty of other reasons to visit. 

The town is home to spectacular Urquhart Castle and several other historical sites, Loch Ness itself is jaw-dropping (it’s enormous — the deepest in Scotland and larger than all the lakes in England and Wales combined!), and it’s an easy side trip if you’re visiting Inverness. 

Things to do at Loch Ness

• Enjoy the sunset on Dores Beach.
• Grab a pint and pub food at The Dores Inn .
• Take a boat cruise on Loch Ness and stop to explore Urquhart Castle.
• Rent a bicycle to explore the Loch Ness 360 bike path.
• The water averages just 41℉ year-round, but “wild swimming” is incredibly popular here!

Epic hiking and adventures

Nestled in Scotland’s Western Highlands, Glencoe sits in a valley formed by glaciers and volcanoes. Today, the dramatic, rugged landscape dotted with lochs and mountains provides a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures, including some of the best hikes in Scotland. 

It’s no wonder that Glencoe has served as the filming location for several iconic movies, including Braveheart , James Bond , and Harry Potter .

Glencoe itself is actually an officially-designated National Nature Reserve, but it’s also a quaint historic village with quick access to scenic drives, epic hiking trails, and one of only five ski resorts in all of Scotland. It also plays host to some serious gems in the form of traditional Scottish pubs.

Things to do in Glencoe

• Grab a mushroom roll (trust us!) and some sweet treats at Stiff Peaks Patisserie .
• Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Laroch Restaurant & Bar .
• Indulge in the seafood platter at Lochleven Seafood Cafe .
• Take in the epic views at Three Sisters Car Park.
• Do the Hidden Valley hike! (Just do it!)
• Snap a shot on the road from James Bond’s Skyfall . 
• Head to these coordinates for an epic shot of a small waterfall and the peak of Buachaille Etive Mòr in the distance.
• Hike to Steall Waterfall.
• If you’re feeling very ambitious, summit Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Scotland.

Where to stay in Glencoe

Clachaig Inn : Nestled in the valley and ideally located for exploring Steall Waterfall or visiting the Ben Nevis distillery, this inn is a great option. Rooms are private, there’s an onsite pub and restaurant, and the inn even has a children’s playground. 

Kingshouse Hotel : Part hostel and part traditional hotel, the Kingshouse offers classic guest rooms as well as a hostel-style bunkhouse, geared toward hikers. Linens are provided, breakfast is offered at an affordable rate, and laundry and gear storage services are available.

Bridge of Orchy Hotel : Offering traditional rooms in the main building and suites in the annexes, Bridge of Orchy is situated right along the A82, the major thoroughfare into the Highlands. The train station is also within walking distance. Every room has spectacular views, and a full Scottish breakfast and parking are complimentary.

Wondering how to fit this all in one trip? Use our guide to planning the ultimate Scotland road trip , which covers everything from vehicle rentals to budget tips and itineraries. 

The bustling hub of the Isle of Skye

The colorful and lively hub of activity on Skye, Portee offers an abundance of services and amenities for travelers. It serves as an excellent homebase for exploring the Isle of Skye , with quick access to boat tours and countless day trips. With plenty of charm, it’s also well worth a visit in its own right. 

You could easily spend several days just strolling around Portree, chasing waterfalls and snapping photos from different viewpoints. The town has several world-class dining options as well. 

One thing to keep in mind is that because Portree is Skye’s main hub, everything books up well in advance for peak season (summer). You’ll want to book your accommodation, tours, and even restaurant reservations as far in advance as possible.  

Things to do in Portree

• Get a view above the colorful town at this viewpoint .
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at Sea Breezes . We recommend ordering the hand-dived scallops!
• Make a dinner reservation ( at least a week early!) at The View , in the Cuillin Hills Hotel.  
• Take a pony ride with Isle of Skye Trekking & Therapy Centre for some of the best views on the island. 
• Take a whale- or dolphin-watching boat tour (the best time is between May and October).

Where to stay in Portree

Marmalade Hotel : Housed in an early 1800s Georgian-style home, this beautiful hotel overlooks Portree Bay and well-manicured gardens. Dine in the onsite restaurant or garden, enjoy a cocktail in the heated courtyard, and take advantage of the boat and distillery tours that depart just minutes away.

Tianavaig View Apartments : If a vacation rental is more your style, these apartments offer a perfect middle-ground. The self-contained, modern apartments are centrally located and well-equipped, but come with hotel-like amenities and services such as housekeeping. 

Portree Independent Hostel : This hostel is ideally located right on Portree Bay. The shared kitchen, dining, and living rooms have fantastic views and great wi-fi connection, and dormitory-style rooms are spacious and comfy. 

8. Applecross

Remote peninsula in the Western Highlands known for its seafood and rugged scenery

Known by locals as “The Street,” tiny, remote Applecross is where you go to have an authentic Scottish experience. 

There’s little, if any, nightlife, and few restaurants and accommodations to choose from, but the outdoor adventure and scenery more than makes up for it. Plus, the village’s restaurants and pubs are shockingly good (like, Michelin-star good!).

The small fishing village overlooks the Sound of Raasay and offers views of several nearby islands. There are also small beaches and proper sand dunes in Applecross. It goes without saying that hiking, driving, and even just strolling through town are all accompanied by incredible views!

This is one of the best places to visit in Scotland for slowing down and truly taking in your surroundings. 

Things to do in Applecross

• Try local fish n’ chips and freshly-ground coffee from Applecross Inn-Side Out , a converted 1950s Airstream trailer. 
• Stroll from Sand Bay to Applecross Bay, taking in coastal views of the isles of Skye and Raasay.  
• Go sea kayaking with Mountain and Sea Guides .
• Drive the winding Bealach na Ba (the Pass of the Cattle), the highest road in all of Great Britain at 2,053 feet above sea level. 
• Treat yourself to dinner at Michelin-starred Applecross Inn . 

9. Cairngorms National Park

Largest national park in the UK, nestled in the Highlands

If you have limited time and have to decide on just one or two places to visit in Scotland, Cairngorms National Park should absolutely be one of them. National Geographic Traveller Magazine even named it one of the top 20 places to visit in the entire world!

Situated in the famed Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms has epic hiking and bicycling routes, castles, amazing wildlife, family-friendly attractions, museums, and even distilleries. 

The national park is also home to five of the six tallest mountains in the UK, plus a whopping 55 “Munros,” mountains taller than 3,000 feet (914.4m). And at 4,528 square kilometers (1,748 square miles), it’s the largest national park in the UK.

You could easily spend your entire visit here and still have a great time! 

Things to do in Cairngorms National Park

• Trek to a reindeer herd in the mountains.
• Do the epic Meall a’ Bhuachaille hike.
• Wander the small town of Aviemore.
• Catch live music at The Old Bridge Inn .
• Take a tour of Balmoral Castle , a summer residence of the Royal family.
• See the pyramid dedicated to Prince Albert , a strange sight to behold in the middle of a Scottish forest.

Where to stay in Cairngorms National Park

Blair Castle Caravan Park (glamping): Situated at the park entrance in Blair Atholl, this spectacular glamping site offers a range of accommodations. Stay in a unique riverside camping pod, self-catering tiny homes, or wood cabins, or pitch your own tent in the campsite.

Cairngorm Hotel : Ideally located on the main drag in Aviemore, the Cairngorm Hotel is the perfect basecamp for exploring the park and surrounding Highlands. Views, service, and dining options are all top-notch, and you’ll be within walking distance of shopping, hikes, and pubs. 

10. Outer Hebrides

Unique culture and remote, pristine beaches that rival those of the Caribbean 

Off Scotland’s rugged northwest coast, the Outer Hebrides is an archipelago comprised of 70 islands, only 15 of which are inhabited.

Each is a fascinating combination of quaint fishing villages, mountains, sand dunes, proper beaches, epic scenery, and diverse food scenes. 

There are many hidden gems in the Outer Hebrides , meaning you’ll get off the typical tourist path and have a very special experience.

Good to know: Scotland has both the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides archipelagos. The Inner Hebrides are located closer to mainland Scotland and are comprised of 79 islands, including the Isle of Skye, the Isle of Mull, Jura and Islay, to name just a few of the more well-known isles.

The Outer Hebrides have been consistently occupied by various cultures since the Mesolithic period, so it comes as no surprise that the islands have a distinct culture all their own. Thanks to the different influences, you’ll experience bits of Gaelic, Norse, and Celtic culture, as well as warm, welcoming hospitality. 

Getting to the Outer Hebrides

If you have a bit more time in Scotland (or this is not your first trip to the country), we’d recommend adding this unique region to your list of places to visit in Scotland.

The reason we don’t necessarily recommend the Outer Hebrides as part of a shorter Scotland trip is that getting there does require a bit of time, making it difficult to squeeze into a limited itinerary (especially when you want to see many other places).

That said, there are multiple flights and ferries to the Outer Hebrides every day from mainland Scotland. In most cases, you can be in the isles in under two hours. 

Things to do in the Outer Hebrides

• See the Black Houses in Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• Visit the Standing Stones from 2,000 years ago
• Rent a bike and cycle from Lewis to Harris on the Hebridean Way
• Pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the beaches
• Be sure to try the local delicacy: Charles MacLeod Black Pudding
• Book an overnight stay at Amhuinnsuidhe Castle (which includes meals)

Where to stay in the Outer Hebrides

Hotel Hebrides : Conveniently located in Tarbert near some of the best beaches in the Outer Hebrides, this boutique hotel is a great choice. The rooms are comfortable, the restaurant and bar are exceptional, and it’s right at the ferry port. 

Ravenspoint Hostel : In the Gaelic-speaking farming (“crofting” in Scotland) community of South Loch on the Isle of Lewis, this hostel offers ultra-affordable, comfy accommodation with a view. There are various room types, plus shared kitchen and laundry facilities.

11. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Scotland’s first national park and one of the country’s most popular destinations

Considered one of the most scenic parts of the country, The Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond are some of the most popular places to visit in Scotland. (Many Scots take “staycations” here, which is really saying something!)

Loch Lomond is the park’s crown jewel, sitting right on a fault line that serves as the natural boundary between the Highlands and the lowlands. Its geographical diversity is truly a sight to behold, with different formations and terrain even from one end to the other. 

Best of all, The Trossachs is just 30 miles from Glasgow, making it easily accessible even if you only have time for a quick day trip. 

Things to do near Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

• Hike to Conic Hill at sunset.
• Get a taste of Scottish folklore by exploring the mysteries of Rob Roy’s Cave. 
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the 22+ islands of Loch Lomond (look out for wild wallabies!)
• Tour the Glengoyne or Loch Lomond distilleries.
• Explore the cozy pubs and funky boutiques in the quaint village of Luss.  

12. North Coast 500 Highway

One of the most iconic and scenic driving routes in Europe

The North Coast 500 or NC500 as it’s often called, is Scotland’s version of the iconic American Route 66. Driving this road takes you through 516 miles of the most incredible Scottish landscapes with stops along the way in many little villages and sights with plenty of things to see and do.

The NC500 loop starts and ends at Inverness Castle, although many people choose to drive shorter sections of it, mostly for the sake of time. Whether you have a day or two weeks, you’ll be wowed by the scenery, impressive castles, hikes, Highland cow sightings, national parks, and random roadside pubs. 

No matter how much time you have and whether you’re driving the entire loop or just a section, here’s one important piece of advice: don’t over schedule yourself and build in (lots of!) time for detours. 

Things to do along the North Coast 500

This is by no means a complete list. We have an entire guide to driving the North Coast 500 with much more detailed information if you’re interested in planning a road trip.

• Stroll the beaches of Black Isle.
• Tour the Glenmorangie Distillery (feel free to request your “wee dram” tasting to go if you’re hopping right back in the car!). 
• Stop at Falls of Shin , where you can watch salmon leaping out of the water. Grab some locally-made souvenirs and a slice of cake from the cafe before leaving.
• Take a picture with the iconic sign in John O’Groats , considered the northernmost point on mainland Scotland. 
• Explore Ugly Hollow, an impressive box canyon, on a kayaking or canyoneering tour. 

Where to stay along the North Coast 500

Old Drynie House, Black Isle : A true B&B with stunning water views, spacious private rooms, and a traditional, formal Scottish breakfast served in a group setting. 

Natural Retreats, John O’Groats : Luxury, self-catering eco-cottages with spectacular views of the ocean and Orkney Islands. Locally-sourced, sustainable materials are used throughout each cottage, alongside modern amenities including large flat-screen TVs with PS3 video game consoles. Onsite bicycle rentals are available. 

Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite : A former historic shooting lodge turned hostel, this is a fantastic affordable accommodation option with both private and shared rooms, plus a campsite. 

The “Gateway to the Isles” and the seafood capital of Scotland

A quaint seaside town on Scotland’s west coast, Oban is considered the “Gateway to the Isles” but well worth a visit in its own right. It’s a quick (and very scenic!) detour if you’re traveling from Glasgow to the central Highlands, and serves as an excellent jumping-off point for island-hopping.

Offering a little something for everyone, Oban is renowned for its fresh-from-the-source seafood, variety of outdoor adventures, and unique cultural attractions. The fishing community is also home to one of the country’s oldest (and smallest!) distilleries — that in itself makes Oban one of the best places to visit in Scotland!

Things to do in Oban

• Pick up fresh seafood from the famous Green Shack , aka the Oban Seafood Hut. Bring it back to your vacation rental or request the local fishermen prepare it fresh onsite.
• Climb up to McCaig’s Tower, also known as McCaig’s Folly, a huge unfinished replica of the Colosseum perched on a hill overlooking the town and Oban Bay. 
• Tour the Oban Distillery , where you’ll get two tastings. 
• Go island-hopping through the Inner Hebrides — the isles of Barra, Coll, Iona, Kerrera, Lismore, and Mull are all easily accessible with a short ferry ride from Oban’s ferry port (and you can visit multiple islands in one day!).
• Book a puffin or other wildlife-watching tour with Basking Shark Scotland . 

Where to stay in Oban

The Perle Oban : This stylish waterfront hotel adds a touch of luxury to your Oban visit, but at a very reasonable pricepoint. The 1800s building is a local icon and guests can indulge at the spa or onsite Michelin-starred restaurant. The Oban Distillery is right next door!

The Kilchrenan Inn : A cozy inn in a picturesque, somewhat secluded location with well-equipped rooms, strong wi-fi, free parking, and an elaborate daily Scottish breakfast. 

Oban Youth Hostel : For travelers on a budget, this hostel is fantastic. It’s waterfront along Oban’s popular esplanade and within easy walking distance of the town center, rail station, and ferry port. Private and shared rooms are available, and perks include free parking and bicycle storage. 

14. Isle of Mull

The Inner Hebrides’ second-largest island

Largely considered something of a hidden gem because of the wild popularity of the slightly larger Isle of Skye, Mull definitely deserves a spot on your Scotland itinerary. Skye is the only isle larger than Mull in the Inner Hebrides, and it’s the fourth-largest Scottish island overall. 

You’ll find a great variety of shops and services in Tobermory, the capital town, but people primarily visit the Isle of Mull to enjoy slow living and take in the unique scenery, culture, and wildlife of the Inner Hebrides. 

Best of all, visiting Mull is as easy as taking a ferry ride from the mainland. Multiple daily trips are offered from Oban, Kilchoan, and Lochaline, and all three trips are under one hour. 

Insider tip: You can bring a vehicle over to the island on the ferry, but if you’re driving a rental car , be sure to check company policy to ensure doing that is permitted. 

Things to do in Isle of Mull

• Rent an e-bike from one of the local shops to explore the island on two wheels. 
• Tour and enjoy samples of Scotch at Tobermory Distillery , the only one on the island. 
• Take the ferry to the nearby Isle of Lunga, where puffins reside from April through August.
• Visit the Duart Castle, which has been continuously occupied by the prominent Clan MacLean for over 700 years. 
• Make the short hike to Aros Waterfall, starting from Tobermory.

Where to stay in Isle of Mull

Glengorm Castle : If you’ve always wanted to stay in a real castle (who doesn’t?!), here’s your chance. Set up as individual self-catering apartments within the castle, there’s a variety of rooms available ranging from studios to family-style flats with kitchens. Best feature: the library always has complimentary whiskey available!

Western Isles Hotel : Overlooking Tobermory Bay, this is one of the best locations for exploring Mull. Views are fantastic and guests rave about the food — full Scottish breakfast is included!

Salen Bay Campsite : To truly immerse yourself in the Isle of Mull, consider camping for a night or two. This secluded campground feels as if it’s on an island of its own, but is just walking distance from the town center. Elevated sites have 360-degree views, and you can rent kayaks or SUPs onsite. 

15. Fort William

Known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK

With a nickname like the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” it goes without saying that there’s no shortage of epic adventure in Fort William. The area’s abundance of rivers and lochs position the town as a fantastic spot for water sports, and the surrounding mountains lend themselves to plenty of other outdoor recreation. 

That’s only the tip of the iceberg, though. Fort William has all the quintessentially Scottish elements as well, including historic castles, distilleries, and dramatic scenery. In fact, many scenes from Braveheart were filmed here!

Fort William is right next to the smaller village of Glencoe and both towns are easily accessible via train or car from Glasgow — just one more thing making it one of the best places to visit in Scotland. 

Things to do in Fort William

• Climb Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK (pack layers — there’s typically snow at the summit all year!). 
• Visit the West Highland Museum, with elements of quintessential Highlands culture on display, including weapons and bagpipes. 
• Check out the impressive architecture of St. Andrews church
• Watch boats navigate Neptune’s Staircase, a series of unique staircase locks. 
• Order a pint and pizza at Black Isle Bar .
• See the statue that marks the official end to the West Highland Way .
• Take a day trip from Fort William to the near by Glenfinnan Viaduct (see #16 on this list for more info!).

Where to stay in Fort William

The Garrison : One of the most unique (and dog-friendly!) accommodations in Fort William, this stylish hotel is a former police station. There are traditional hotel rooms, but guests can also book compact rooms that are converted jail cells!

Myrtle Bank Guest House : This 1890s Victorian villa offers B&B-style guest rooms in a gorgeous waterfront setting on Loch Linnhe. Views are fantastic, it’s just a five-minute walk from the center of town, and parking and wi-fi are included. 

Ben Nevis Inn (bunkhouse) : Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, this hostel caters primarily to hikers. Ultra-affordable accommodation includes dormitory-style shared rooms or private rooms, and there’s a lively pub and restaurant upstairs. 

16. Glenfinnan

A popular stop on the Road to the Isles and the home of the famous “Harry Potter bridge”

Glenfinnan is an easy stop along the picturesque Road to the Isles , A830, which connects Fort William to the port of Mallaig. The town itself is small but mighty, offering an impressive punch combining history and scenery, but the 43-mile scenic drive is worth the trip in itself. 

Of course, there’s another major reason people make the trip to Glenfinnan, Potterheads will recognize this one! The Glenfinnan Viaduct, a raised railway 100 feet off the ground, served as the Hogwarts Express train in the second and third movies. 

Unsurprisingly, today the viaduct is widely known as the “Harry Potter bridge.”

Things to do in Glenfinnan

• Photograph the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct train bridge (aka the “Harry Potter bridge”).
• Grab a sandwich and soup inside an old railroad car . 
• Visit the 60-foot Glenfinnan Monument, or the “Leaning Tower of Glenfinnan,” as the locals know it.
• Take a day trip to Old Forge Pub , named the world’s most remote bar by the Guinness Book of World Records (fair warning: there’s literally no actual road to the pub, so this is more of an adventure than it initially seems!). 

17. Stirling

Gateway to the Highlands

It may be a rather small city, but Stirling packs a serious punch. The city is located about one hour from Edinburgh and 30 minutes from Glasgow, situated right where the Scottish Lowlands meet the Highlands. 

Without a doubt, the main reason to visit Stirling is that it’s a passage on the journey to The Highlands. 

Outside of being a major thoroughfare for the Highlands, Stirling itself is actually a college town—and the entertainment and restaurant scenes reflect that. The younger, livelier population lends itself to buzzy bars and great nightlife, lots of great shopping, and events happening seemingly non-stop, year-round. 

Of course, if you’re looking for a quieter respite away from the rowdy party scene, there are also plenty of traditional Scottish pubs and restaurants. 

Things to do in Stirling

• Explore the cobblestone streets of Stirling’s Old Town 
• Head up to Stirling Castle for some panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands
• Visit the National Wallace Monument in honor of Scottish warrior William Wallace, i.e.; Braveheart.
• Briarlands Farm is especially family-friendly, offering a petting zoo, seasonal berry picking, go-karting and other activities.

Where to stay in Stirling

Stirling Highland Hotel : Occupying a historic 1854 building, this former high school turned hotel is in one of the best parts of the city. The rail station and famed Stirling Castle are both within walking distance, and there’s a cheekily-named, school-themed restaurant and pub onsite (Scholars Restaurant and Headmaster’s Study Bar, respectively).

Friars Wynd Hotel : In the city center, this boutique hotel is well-equipped and extremely affordable. There’s a bar and lovely garden onsite, and guests rave about the hotel breakfast. 

Stirling Youth Hostel : Set on the grounds of a beautiful church perched above town and within walking distance of the Castle, this is an excellent affordable option for exploring Stirling. Choose from private en suite or shared rooms, and use the self-catering kitchen or order an inexpensive continental breakfast. 

18. Ullapool

Gateway to the Northern Highlands and a popular stop on the North Coast 500

A sleepy fishing village in far northern Scotland on the shores of Loch Broom, Ullapool is widely considered one of the most unspoiled places in the UK. If you’re looking to enjoy the country’s iconic rolling green landscape dotted with bodies of water at a slow pace, Ullapool belongs near the top of your list of places to visit in Scotland. 

Don’t let the quiet pace fool you, though — Ullapool is frequently named to lists of the best outdoor destinations in the UK and has a strong sense of adventure. The small town boasts a combination of rocky coastline, mountains, excellent hiking, and unique wildlife and photography opportunities. 

Inverness is just an hour away by car and there are ferries to the Outer Hebrides close by, plus, of course, it’s right along the North Coast 500, making Ullapool the perfect basecamp for exploring northern Scotland.

Things to do in Ullapool

• Rent a kayak or canoe from the Ullapool Pier and paddle Loch Broom. 
• Catch sunset over the loch from Rhue Lighthouse.
• Go tidepooling, crabbing, or skip rocks at Ardmair Beach. 
• Enjoy langoustines and other seafood fare at the iconic Seafood Shack .
• Grab a strong coffee and pastry at Cult Cafe .

Where to stay in Ullapool

The Arch Inn : Family-friendly beachfront accommodation with an onsite bar, restaurant, and open-air terrace offering stunning views. Breakfast is included in the rate, and the inn has direct access to popular hiking and cycling trails. 

Riverside Guest House : Laid-back, inn-style accommodations within walking distance of the ferry port and harbor. Guests receive complimentary access to the Lochbroom Leisure Centre, with a swimming pool and gym facilities. 

Ullapool Youth Hostel : A lovely waterfront option providing a fantastic value in the heart of Ullapool overlooking the harbor. Choose from private or shared rooms and enjoy communal kitchen and lounge facilities, plus wi-fi and bike storage. 

19. St. Andrews

An ancient seaside community known as the birthplace of golf

History buffs, architecture lovers, and fans of golf will all eagerly shout from the rooftops that St. Andrews is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. It was here that the game of golf was invented, way back in the 15th century. 

St. Andrews is also home to Scotland’s oldest and most prominent university — and the third-oldest in the modern world! The University of St. Andrews was established in the early 1400s, and many visitors call it a real-life Hogwarts. 

It should come as no surprise that there are a number of well-preserved medieval ruins in St. Andrews. What is a bit surprising, however, are the buzzy restaurants, pubs, and independent shopping boutiques in a town this tiny.

Things to do in St. Andrews

• Play a round of golf at the Old Course , the oldest golf course in the entire world (you must enter a ballot-style lottery to try and get a tee time). Guided walks are also available April through October. 
• If you can’t get a tee time at the Old Course, play at one of the city’s 10 other courses.
• Visit the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, built in 1158 and at one time the country’s largest cathedral. 
• Indulge in a scoop at Jannetta’s Gelateria , a fourth-generation shop dishing out over 100 flavors. 
• Take a self-guided walking tour of the University of St. Andrews. 
• Tip a few back at Eden Mill , part gin distillery, part brewery, entirely unique.  

Where to stay in St. Andrews

Drumoig Golf Hotel : If golf is on your St. Andrews agenda, book a stay at the Drumoig, home to its very own 18-hole golf course. The onsite restaurant overlooks the 18th green, so you can get your golf fix even when you aren’t playing. 

The Spindle Guest Rooms : Best described as an upscale, adults-only hostel, The Spindle offers private rooms with shared common areas, like the lounge and terrace. The university is literally feet away and the entire area is very walkable. 

Rufflets : If you have a bit of wiggle room in your budget, Rufflets is a bit pricier than the other options but well worth the splurge. Set on a private 10 acres in a 1924 turreted mansion, everything about Rufflets is plush. If the weather is favorable, don’t miss an opportunity to dine in the award-winning gardens. 

A major hub of architecture and visual arts

Dundee is a perfect example of history seamlessly combined with contemporary living. Situated on Scotland’s east coast, the city itself is pretty compact and very walkable. Plus, it’s an absolute dream for lovers of architecture. 

The city boasts tons of architectural landmarks, museums, and galleries. And in 2015, Dundee was named a UNESCO City of Design, the very first in the UK. Another fun tidbit: Grand Theft Auto, the video game with a longtime, cult-like following, was created here in Dundee.

Like Edinburgh, Dundee also hosts numerous festivals every year. They play host to a fantastic Jazz festival each November, as well as one of the biggest food festivals in Scotland. Speaking of which—Dundee’s food and bar scenes are also quite trendy with plenty of options to keep you satisfied. 

Things to do in Dundee

• Visit the Dundee V&A Museum, dedicated entirely to design, also the first of its kind in Scotland. 
• Peruse the McManus Galleries.
• Check out the architecture at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• Hike or drive to the top of Dundee Law, a long-dormant volcano, for an elevated 360-degree view of the city and river.
• Go whitewater rafting in nearby Angus

Where to stay in Dundee

Hotel Indigo : Overlooking the River Tay and close to the center of town, this chic hotel is in a building that was once a textile mill. It’s in a very walkable location and every room has a dedicated workstation. 

The Shaftesbury Hotel : To really immerse yourself in the architecture Dundee is so famous for, choose this hotel. In the vibrant West End, the 19th century hotel has several original features including arched windows, stone fireplaces, and high ceilings. 

Dundee Backpackers Hostel : Housed in a group of five well-preserved 16th century buildings with many period furnishings intact, this hostel has an elevated feel and is situated on bustling High Street. There are both private and shared rooms, plus communal dining room, kitchen, lounge, and game room. 

21. Aberdeen

One of the sunniest places in the UK and considered Scotland’s “castle capital”

Located near the coast in the northeastern part of the country, Aberdeen is the third largest city in Scotland. Fun fact: It’s considered the sunniest city in all of the UK, getting up to 195 hours of sunshine in May alone! 

The city’s favorable weather is the cherry on top as Aberdeen is one of the only places in the UK that has a proper sandy beach. Steady winds make Aberdeen a great spot for surfing, kitesurfing, or sailing. 

There’s also an amusement park at the beach and, in true Scottish fashion, an ice skating rink. 

Nightlife is surprisingly lively for a laid-back beach town, and the restaurant scene is robust as well. There are golf courses everywhere you look (did you know golf was invented in Scotland?!), cool museums (many of which are totally free!), nice public parks, and lots of history to enjoy in Aberdeen. 

Things to do in Aberdeen

• Visit at least a couple of Scotland’s castles ! Start with Dunnottar Castle, one of the oldest and most formidable in the country, and the distinct pink Craigievar Castle.  
• Grab a beer from the wildly popular BrewDog’s main brewery DogTap in Ellon. 
• Visit Newburgh Beach to run up and down the sand dunes and check out the colony of hundreds of seals. 
• Stroll through Old Aberdeen for eye-popping old architecture (it was founded in the 1400s!).  
• Make a day trip to Cairngorms National Park (#9 on this list!). 

Where to stay in Aberdeen

Jurys Inn Aberdeen (Union Square) : In a fantastic, highly walkable location adjacent to the train station, tons of shopping, and a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafes. The hotel also has signature Jurys Inn DREAM beds and deep soaking tubs. 

Malmaison Aberdeen : Set in a stately granite building that looks like a Victorian mansion, this posh hotel feels like an absolute steal. The rooms are plush and well-outfitted, and recent upgrades include a gym, wine tasting cellar, and Whiskey Snug bar. 

Deeside Holiday Park : If camping or glamping is more your style as you tour the Castle Capital or visit Cairngorms National Park, Deeside is perfect. Choose from tent or campervan sites, or book a glamping pod or traditional cabin-style holiday home. 

Raise your hand if you don’t want to spend hours of time researching and you just want all the info right at your fingertips!

If your hand is up, keep reading…

If you  like  the research, all the power to you! Feel free to use our itinerary outlines as a starting point as well as our city guides for ideas of things to do (we’ve got a bunch of them!):

• Things to Do in Isle of Skye
• Things to Do in Inverness

But if you want to save some hours of your life, we’ve already put in more than enough for you and us combined.  Trust us.

And we’re happy to share everything we learned  — from digging through reviews, Youtube and all sorts of Internet rabbit holes, as well as actually being  in  Scotland and taking our very own dream road trip!

We’ve curated what we think is the  perfect Scotland road trip , and we want you to be able to copy our route! 

In this 2-week itinerary, you’ll find:

• Can’t miss sights and experiences 
• suggestions for what to order
• the best campsites to stay on the route
• unique guesthouses along the way
• Insider Tips
• Suggestions for extending this trip

We’ve spent hours of research putting this all together, just for you!

In full transparency, this is a  paid itinerary  since it has taken an incredible amount of time for us to create. 

However, we keep all of our paid itineraries affordable – just $17 for an entire 2-week itinerary . We think this is an incredible value considering almost all your planning will be done for you!

What to pack for your trip to Scotland

With variable weather conditions, excellent hiking opportunities, and plenty of city life, there are a few things you definitely don’t want to forget when you’re packing for a trip to Scotland.

Check out the  exact items we recommend  for traveling in Scotland. 

• rain jacket (make sure it’s waterproof, not just water resistant)
• travel umbrella
• dry bag : to keep your valuables from getting wet on a hike
• Hiking backpack
• Hiking boots
• Lots of layers
• A couple nicer outfits for eating out
• Bug repellent: midges are common in Scotland, especially during the summer months
• Camera and  lightweight tripod  (optional)

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Scotland !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Scotland trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Round up of the top places to visit in Scotland

Here’s a roundup of all the best places to visit in Scotland so you can see everything in one place.

• Cairngorms National Park
• Outer Hebrides
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
• North Coast 500
• Isle of Mull
• Fort William
• St. Andrews

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Dreamy Scotland Glamping Stays
• Best Campervan Hire in Scotland
• How to Get from London to Edinburgh
• How to Plan the Ultimate Scotland Road Trip

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these places to visit in Scotland are going straight to the top of your list? Are you planning a trip to Scotland and have more questions? Comment below and let us know!

Comments (10) on “ 21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland ”

Thank you. Very helpful

You are very welcome!

Hmm, finally something worth reading about Scotland ! Thanks for all the tips. I really should visit Scotland more-it looks just beautiful.

It’s so magical! Let us know if you are planning a trip!

Beautifully crafted with spectacular views of Scotland. The pictures are beautiful too. Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

We’re so happy to hear we inspired you to visit!

Pics are beautiful! Thanks for inspiring me to visit Scotland.

Thank you so much!

Where is the best place to go for food?

Oh, wow! There are so many good places. We are actually creating an article about Scottish foods and where to get order them. Check back soon!

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15 Most Charming Small Towns In Scotland

History and heritage sweep across Scotland from Highlands to Lowlands, from Orkney to the Hebrides. Centuries-old castles and ancient ruins dot the land, evidence of a past that encompassed internal conflicts as much as struggles against invaders, including Norse kings as much as the English.

Glens and bens are the order of the day for the Scottish outdoors are simply stunning: the highest mountain of the British Isles is to be found here, Ben Nevis, as well as some of the most dramatic coastlines you’re likely to encounter.

Add that to rolling hills, calm lochs and a wealth of islands to explore (over 790), and there’s even more reason to visit Scotland. But where should you go? Here’s a look at the prettiest small towns in Scotland you can base yourself in.

15. Anstruther

A trip to this picturesque fishing village would not be complete without visiting the Anstruther Fish Bar – and yes, that’s a fish and chip shop. It’s won bags of awards for its fare (the mushy peas are of particular notoriety) and has served the likes of Robert De Niro, Tom Hanks, and Prince William.

Another award-winning place in town is the Scottish Fisheries Museum, where you can learn about the Scottish fishing industry from prehistory to present day and soak in the museum’s historic buildings, including the 16th century Abbot’s House.

14. Braemar

The Royal connection in this town is strong. First of all, Balmoral Castle, sometime-residence of the Royal Family, is just a few miles down the road, and is partially open to the public when it’s not being lived in. Secondly, Braemar is the site of the Braemar Gathering, an annual Highland Games traditionally attended by the Royal Family, since Queen Victoria.

History abounds: there’s the 17th century antique-filled Braemar Castle, and the ruins of 14th century Kindrochit Castle, for instance. It’s also on the doorstep of easy hiking in Morrone Birkwood Nature Reserve, as well as a steep ascent up the nearby hill of Creag Choinnich.

Just a stone’s throw from the English border and full of historical and architectural interest, Kelso came to life when the construction of its monastery was given permission in 1138.

Almost a millennium later, the ruins of Kelso Abbey are still imposing and well preserved. More recent is the grand Floors Castle, which dates from 1721; outside, the size and scale of this palace are impressive, but interior is majestically hung with tapestries. Situated on the confluence of the Tweed and Teviot rivers, this historic town is packed with things to do, eat, and drink.

12. Linlithgow

The ancient town of Linlithgow, with its historic High Street, boasts a very famous landmark: Linlithgow Palace. Although the present building was begun in 1424, it lies on the site of an even older original building.

Possibly Scotland’s finest example of late medieval architecture, it’s the birthplace of James V and Mary, Queen of Scots and is surrounded by an idyllic stretch of parkland known locally as “the Peel”, which includes the idyllic Linlithgow Loch. To the south of town is a portion of the Glasgow-Edinburgh Union Canal.

11. St Andrews

Although St Andrews is most well known for being the location of the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world – and the place of higher education for the British Royal Family – the town is an attraction in itself, with historic sites dotted throughout its streets.

On the coast there’s the spectacular clifftop ruins of 13th century St Andrews Castle, complete with dungeons and secret passageways, and further inland there’s the 18 acres of sculpted nature at the Botanical Gardens. Elsewhere there’s the now-ruined 12th century cathedral – the largest church ever to built in Scotland.

10. Fort Augustus

Fort Augustus lies at the southwest end of the most famous of all lochs: Loch Ness. This second-largest of Scotland’s lochs draws tourists from far and wide – a few in the hopes of actually spotting the cryptozoological Nessie.

Aside from taking a cruise on Loch Ness itself, learning about Highlands culture at the Clansman Centre, or checking out the 19th century abbey, it’s the natural setting in an attractive area of the Scottish Highlands that Fort Augustus enjoys which make this an albeit well-trodden charmer of a town.

Pastel-colored buildings, shops, pubs, and the atmospheric ruins of 13th century Tarbert Castle make this little town a slice of aesthetic joy on the isthmus that links the Kintyre peninsula to Knapdale.

Mentioned as far back as 731 AD, Tarbert was previously known as the place where ships and boats could be carried across the relatively narrow strip of land to avoid going all the way round the Mull of Kintyre. For walkers, hikers and runners alike, this is the starting point of the 100-mile Kintyre Way, which encompasses the landscape of this incredible peninsula.

8. Plockton

This small village began life as a planned community based on fishing, an attempt to stem emigration from the Highlands. As such most of the houses are 19th and 20th century. But its location is very attractive: though on the west coast Plockton faces east, giving it a mild climate and allowing quaintly out-of-place cabbage tree palms to grow here.

The town was popular with 20th century art collective the Edinburgh School and continues to attract artists (and tourists) today.

7. Kirkcudbright

This town has association with art. Collectives Glasgow Boys (from the late 1800s) and early 20th century Scottish Colorists both of which visited and stayed in the area, establishing an artists’ colony in Kirkcudbright that lasted roughly 30 years. But the artists kept coming, cementing a reputation for art and artists that lives on today.

Founded sometime in the 12th century, Kirkcudbright’s rows of pastel-colored houses and medieval buildings, such as the 16th century McLellan Castle, clearly add to the town’s allure.

Situated at the western end of Loch Tay, scenic Killin is in a prime position for Highlands exploration. It’s set very near the raucous Falls of Dochart, which you can see from a stone bridge that crosses the wild white-water.

The famous MacNab clan were dominant here – there’s a prehistoric stone circle in the grounds of their old seat of power, Kinnell House; and you can find their family burial ground on Inchbuie, an island in the River Dochart. To the north of town are the ruins of 17th century Finlarig Castle. But the walking and hiking on nearby mountain Beinn Ghlas alone is worth a trip to this out-of-the-way spot.

5. Portnahaven

Pretty Portnahaven is a planned village built in the 19th century – its little white houses are detailed round the windows with different colors, feeling warm and cosy set amidst the rugged scenery.

Its harbor is sheltered and as such attracts grey seals, who have been known to pop in for a spot of sunbathing on the rocks. This is also a haven for birdwatchers: shearwaters, petrels, gannets and auks can be in abundance in Autumn. The remote setting alone, however, with dramatic waves crashing against the shoreline, is attractive enough by itself.

The largest town on the largest island of the Inner Hebrides, Portree is very attractive with its pastel-colored houses and harbor fringed by cliffs – with a pier designed by Thomas Telford to boot.

The town is perfectly situated as a gateway to the rocky scenery of the Trotternish peninsula (one of Scotland’s 40 National Scenic Areas), nearby to the famous landmark the Old Man of Storr, as well as for exploring the rest of Skye. The Aros Centre at Portree celebrates Skye’s Gaelic culture – there are a fair few speakers of the language on the island.

3. Pittenweem

Trade with Belgium and the Netherlands influenced the very pretty style of the houses in Pittenweem, with their white walls and red roofs. One of the most active fishing village in this area of Fife, it became even more busy from 1982 when the village launched its first Arts Festival, which is now one of the best-loved in Scotland; in 2013 over 25,000 turned up – almost 25 times its population.

The winding alleys of this picturesque place also brim with history: an abbey dating from 1318 stands over a sacred gave associated with St Fillan.

2. Stromness

Situated on the ‘Mainland’ – the largest of the Orkney Islands – this town is all about rugged coastal charm, with brownstone buildings huddled down by the choppy sea. First recorded in the 16th century as the site of an inn, Stromness became important in the next century as a port due to war with France encroaching on the English Channel.

Its pier houses the very comprehensive Pier Arts Gallery, with a lot of 20th century art on show. Less than 20 minutes’ drive north is Skara Brae, a Neolithic site predating both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids, a collection of mind-bogglingly well preserved houses and just one part of Orkney’s ancient sites.

1. Tobermory

The colorful shops and restaurants of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull are famous for being featured on children’s television show Balamory, among other things. You can see why: they look incredibly picturesque against the green trees, glassy black water and (often) grey sky.

There’s lots to do in town, with the Tobermory Museum, an aquarium, and the Tobermory single malt whisky distillery to visit. Otherwise it’s perfect as a base to explore this island of the Inner Hebrides.

Map of Small Towns in Scotland

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February 12, 2024 at 2:07 pm

I have always wanted to go to Scotland and see some of these towns. I believe my ancestors come from the Fort Agustus area.

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14 Top-Rated Small Towns in Scotland

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley spent three years attending university in Scotland and has returned many times to revisit and explore the country.

One of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom , beautiful Scotland offers no end of fun things to see and do, many of which can be found in the small towns. And given the fact you can drive its entire length in a few hours, this leading travel destination is easy to explore.

To help you choose the best places to visit during your holiday or weekend getaway, be sure to refer to our list of the top small towns in Scotland.

1. Killin, Loch Tay

2. tobermory, isle of mull, 3. portree, isle of skye, 4. dornoch, sutherland, 5. balloch, loch lomond, 6. plockton, wester ross, 7. brodick, isle of arran, 8. pittenweem, fife, 9. roslin, midlothian, 10. peebles, peebleshire, 11. portnahaven, islay, 12. hopeman, moray, 13. anstruther, 14. fort augustus, map of small towns in scotland.

Located on Loch Tay and an easy drive from the historic town of Stirling , the quaint village of Killin should be on everyone's list of the top places to see in Scotland. In addition to its proximity to the lake, itself a popular spot for sightseeing and gentle water sports such as sailing and kayaking, Killin is home to the beautiful Falls of Dochart .

The falls are a delight to explore, and given their gently sloping nature, it's not difficult to get up close to really appreciate the beauty of these spectacular rapids. From here, you can easily explore the village, which also offers a number of nice places to stay and eat. Our favorites include the three-star Killin Hotel , which looks directly over the river; and the family-run The Courie Inn , which offers a great breakfast with your stay.

Also fun is taking a hike across the Breadalbane mountains with its spectacular views, or chartering a boat for a spot of salmon fishing. Other sightseeing opportunities in Killin include the nearby ruins of Finlarig Castle , where you can also explore an authentic Scottish longhouse.

Located on the northwestern tip of the Isle of Mull , the coastal fishing town of Tobermory is certainly a nice small Scottish town to visit. Getting here is part of the fun, with perhaps the best routes being the ferries from either Kilchoan direct to Tobermory, or from the town of Oban to Craignure and driving north to the town. Private water taxis are also available.

Once ashore, start exploring the sights around the picturesque harbor, popular for its many colorful houses. From the port, which is considered one of the prettiest in all of Scotland, head to Main Street.

Here, in addition to its great shops, art galleries, and restaurants, you'll also find some of the best places to stay on the Isle of Mull, from quaint B&Bs to historic old inns and guesthouses. Other tourism highlights include the Mull Museum , the Marine Visitor Centre, and a theater.

Another great island destination, and this one accessible by road, is the town of Portree on the Isle of Skye . The island's largest community, Portree's attractive natural harbor is fun to explore on foot, especially after the many fishing boats based here return with the day's catch. From here, you can also enjoy a fun sightseeing cruise or fishing trip.

Other fun things to do include shopping and dining, taking in a show or event at the arts center, or even horse riding excursions, which are especially fun for families traveling with kids.

There are also a variety of top-rated hotels and B&Bs worth staying in, a great idea as you can easily extend your stay here and use Portree as a base from which to explore the many other beautiful places to visit on Skye, which has a well-deserved reputation as a hiker's paradise.

The town of Dornoch has much to offer travelers visiting the beautiful Scottish Highlands .

Not only is this historic coastal destination almost as famous among golfers as St. Andrews with Royal Dornoch considered one of the world's top golf courses. It just so happens to benefit from having one of Scotland's sunniest climates thanks to its relatively sheltered location on the northeast coast. This fact alone makes its long sandy beaches even more attractive to day trippers and vacationers alike.

Whether traveling as a family or a couple, there are plenty of other things to do here, too. Highlights include exploring nearby natural attractions such as the Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve with its abundance of wildlife; taking a tour of the 13th-century Dornoch Cathedral ; or checking out the infamous Witch's Stone, the site of the country's last witch burning.

Of the many fun places to visit near Glasgow , it's Balloch that gets our vote. Located at the southern tip of beautiful Loch Lomond , "The Queen of Scottish Lakes," Balloch is just 30 minutes from Scotland's largest city and makes for an excellent and easy day trip.

It's an especially popular stop for outdoorsy types, many of whom use the village as a base for hiking and biking adventures into Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park . It's also a popular place to cast a line, as Loch Lomond is famous for its awesome fishing, especially for salmon and trout.

Looking for something a little more sedate to do? Fret not. Balloch is where a variety of fun boat cruises across Britain's biggest lake can be enjoyed, taking in the natural splendor of this most photo-worthy of travel destinations.

Other fun things to do here include paying a visit to the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre and wandering around Loch Lomond Shores, a unique tourist attraction that houses shops selling traditional Scots crafts, food items, and clothing, plus a variety of great dining experiences.

It's also where you'll find the SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium , home to displays of both domestic and exotic marine species.

Anyone who remembers the classic 1990s TV detective show Hamish Macbeth will almost instantly recognize the lovely seaside community of Plockton when they see it. Used as the setting for the fictional Lochdubh, Plockton's charm lured many a traveler who had first seen it on the small screen. More than 20 years later, this charming fishing village has lost none of its appeal.

Set on a lovely bay on Loch Carron, this picture-perfect scene is enhanced further by the lovely old terraced homes and cottages spread around the harbor. While it's almost always busy in the summer months, pay a visit in spring or autumn, and you'll enjoy the same superb views without the crowds.

Fun activities include exploring the surrounding countryside or hopping aboard a pleasure craft for a tour of the loch. Fishing, hiking, and biking are also popular things to do in Plockton and can usually be organized by area hotels and B&Bs.

And do try to spend a night here if you can. Not only will you enjoy an evening meal featuring fresh seafood caught that day, you'll enjoy a quiet morning in one of the top villages before the other tourists arrive.

An easy ferry ride away from Glasgow , the lovely Isle of Arran is where you'll find the town of Brodick. Considered the capital of the island, which is often referred to as "Scotland in miniature," Brodick is where you'll disembark, opening it up to overseas travelers not wanting to drive — Arran also has a great bus service that circles the whole island.

In addition to enjoying water sports such as fishing and sailing, visitors can participate in other outdoor activities such as golf on the town's 18-hole course, sunbathing and swimming, along with horse riding.

Be sure to also spend some time exploring historic Brodick Castle, Garden & Country Park . This sprawling and well-preserved manor house boasts an impressive collection of antique furniture and a delightful garden.

As Brodick offers a variety of cool places to stay, it also serves as a great base from which to explore other island attractions, such as the fun-to-hike 873-meter-tall Goat Fell mountain.

Pittenweem is another quaint old fishing village on Scotland's east coast that's well worth a visit. If you can manage to find somewhere to sleep, which is sometimes difficult as things do book up quickly in the busy summer season, try to stay for at least a night or two — yes, it's that nice!

A highlight of a stay here will undoubtedly be exploring the harbor area, especially early in the morning after the fishing folk return with their fresh catch, some of which will make its way from the fish market onto the menus of the top restaurants in Pittenweem. It's certainly a picture-perfect scene, and even more so as the harbor is surrounded by numerous restored old townhomes.

If you're able to visit in the summer, try to have it coincide with the popular Pittenweem Arts Festival , held each August and a big draw for visitors from across the UK.

Other fun things to do in Pittenweem include visiting Kellie Lodge , a splendid old home built in the 1500s, as well as the ruins of an even older Augustinian priory next to the village church.

Other interesting historic sites worth checking out are St. Fillan's Cave , used to shelter a saint, along with attractive Kellie Castle .

One of the top places to visit near Edinburgh , just a seven-mile commute away, Roslin makes for a great day trip from its larger neighbor. A highlight of a visit to this charming village is the chance to explore the beautiful Rosslyn Chapel , a 15th-century late-Gothic masterpiece. Festooned with amazing gargoyles and elaborate flourishes, it's a remarkably romantic spot and one that was immortalized by The Da Vinci Code .

Also worth checking out: the ruins of Roslin Castle , just a few minutes' walk from Rosslyn Chapel; the hiking trails of Roslin Glen Country Park ; and Pentland Hills Regional Park. The latter is a pretty area of rolling hills and peaks that's fun to walk and will reward you with amazing views over Edinburgh in the distance.

Another great small town close to Edinburgh , and one which can easily be visited the same day as a stop at Roslin, as they're only a few miles apart, is the picturesque market town of Peebles.

Settled since Roman times and possibly even earlier, Peebles is rich in history and churches. While exploring the town, be sure to pop into one or two places of worship, including the attractive Leckie Memorial Church , which you won't miss due to its 146-foot-tall spire.

After exploring the shops and stopping for a bite to eat, be sure to visit the local museum, the Tweeddale Museum and Gallery with its fascinating displays relating to local history and customs, and the nearly 600-year-old Tweed Bridge.

A few minutes' drive away but well worth a visit is Neidpath Castle , built in the 14th century. Though closed to the public, it makes for a stunning selfie backdrop.

For a taste of life in the Inner Hebrides, plan on visiting the village of Portnahaven, located on the western tip of the island of Islay. The effort to get to this attractive Scottish fishing village is definitely worthwhile. A word of caution, though: it does involve a ferry and a fair bit of driving.

The rewards, though, are plentiful. Topping the list is the chance to enjoy the kind of place people typically picture in their heads when conjuring up images of Bonnie Scotland: a quaint fishing harbor surrounded by tidy whitewashed terraced homes, and relaxed, laid-back residents. Both are definitely true here, especially the latter, as those not involved in traditional pursuits, such as fishing, include everything from artists to service industry workers, here to make a living from the tourists.

Given its distance from the mainland and the planning required to get here, you should certainly consider booking at least a night in a quaint B&B or classic inn. This will not only ensure you've got plenty of time to really enjoy this idyllic and peaceful setting, but to explore a little, too.

For example, if you plan your day around the tides, the low tide will enable you to make the short journey to the tiny island that sits near the harbor, and which serves as home to a variety of species of wildlife, from birds to seals.

Many visitors are often surprised to learn that the UK's most northerly holiday destinations in Scotland are often situated near excellent beaches . Hopeman in Moray is one such spot. Located in northeast Scotland on the Moray Firth, this small fishing village in fact boasts two great beaches, both sandy and pleasant for a swim, sunbathing, or enjoying activities like windsurfing.

When you're done exploring the beaches, be sure to check out other highlights, including fossils, an old druid site, plus a number of quaint shops along the main street. Feeling peckish? Pop into the excellent beachside Hopeman Sands Coffee Shop for a bite of breakfast or lunch, or a sweet treat to go with your coffee or tea.

From Hopeman, you can also check out two other attractive locations in the area: Burghead Bay and Findhorn.

Located just 20 minutes' drive south of the famous golf courses of St. Andrews and only an hour and a half from Edinburgh, the charming coastal town of Anstruther in Fife makes for a pleasant day trip for visitors to Scotland. Set overlooking the Firth of Forth, Anstruther is easily as pretty as any town you'd find in the UK, and offers plenty of related fun seaside things to do, from beaches and tea shops to a pleasant stroll along the old harbor walls.

In fact, the harbor area has long been the heart and soul of this community, with the fishing industry still playing a major role here. In fact, Anstruther has the distinction of being home to the interesting Scottish Fisheries Museum . Spread across a number of heritage buildings dating back to the 16th century, this unique attraction explores fishing over the centuries to the current times, with fascinating hands-on exhibits and displays.

No visit to a seaside town is complete without a visit to a traditional fish and chips shop, and Anstruther is blessed with one of the best. By far the best known is the Anstruther Fish Bar , where freshly caught fare has been served to everyone from British Royalty to Hollywood celebrities, with Prince William and Tom Hanks having visited.

Adventure seekers also visit, using Anstruther as a jumping-off point to visit the nearby Isle of May. This popular nature reserve can be reached by tour boat and is a delight to hike. Along the way, you'll likely see a variety of wildlife, from puffins to seals.

Named after the original fortress built here in the 1700s to safeguard the Caledonian Canal, picturesque Fort Augustus can easily be combined with a visit to Loch Ness . This small Scottish town is in fact located to the southwest of the country's most famous lake and is an ideal spot to experience a little of life in the Highlands.

In addition to its picturesque setting on the canal where you can watch small leisure boats come and go through the locks, you can also get out on the water yourself.

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• 27th February 2022
• 14 minute read

This country is one for the wild to run free, take bold swims and explore ruined castles. It’s unforgiving, but giving; harsh but oh-so-pretty! Does this sound like your cup of tea?.. These are the best places to visit in Scotland – recommended to you by a local.

With our mountainous landscapes, secluded beaches and overall encapsulating scenery; my country is bursting with beauty! Scotland is my birthplace and my home, and as each adventure unfolds, my love for this rugged paradise grows stronger and deeper.

Psst!… You may want to keep a note of these locations for your own visit to Scotland. Scroll down to the bottom of this exhaustive list to access a Google Map with most of the coordinates (and more) already pinpointed for your convenience.

Table of Contents

…for beaches, …for castles, …for culture, …for design, …for highland coos, …for hill-walking, …for history, …for island life, …for mountains, …for outdoor adventure sports, …for the prettiest village, …for a road trip, …for seafood, …for shipwrecks, …for train-spotting, …for waterfalls, …for wildlife, …for wild swimming, things to do & what to see in scotland, scottish highlands google map legend, save this to pinterest….

Don’t have time to read this now? Save this blog for later on Pinterest .

The Best Places to Visit in Scotland…

Time your visit with the odd day or two of summer and you will be gobsmacked by the beauty of our beaches! Take this from a Scottish Highlander and full-time traveller… I’d argue that Scotland has some of the best beaches in the world! But… What are the best beaches in Scotland?

After one quick image search of Luskentyre Beach, you’ll be sold! Luskentyre can be found in the south of the island of Lewis and Harris . The place has some of the most amazing views in Scotland. You can rest assured, knowing that they are totally worth the often choppy ferry ride and the long drive to get there!

Hushinish is located as far west as you can drive in Harris. However, once you arrive you’ll be greeted with its turquoise waters, fine sand and rugged backdrop of hills and lochs. The area is a Scottish paradise!

For more information, read this guide to the campsite and beach at Hushinish.

Sandwood Bay

Located in the remote corner of northwest Scotland, this sandy beach rewards those who take on the 4-mile walk beforehand.

Achmelvich is in the northwest of Scotland, 40 miles north of Ullapool and along the North Coast 500 . This beach does not disappoint; its perfect white sand and clear water ensure that it’s noticed by anyone who so chooses to endure the windy roads to drive there. The area is also home to Europe’s Smallest Castle .

Red Point is a remote peninsula 10 miles southwest of Gairloch in Wester Ross. It has two secluded sandy beaches that are backed by reasonably tall dunes and grassy slopes, with the most northerly being characterised by its red-hued sand. This is a great destination for anyone seeking to find some tranquillity.

Scotland is home to thousands of castles! Whether they are still standing pretty and proud, or broken into ruins; you’ll want to visit at least a few to experience Scotland’s iconic history!

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

The ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe are a popular stop-off on the northeast coast of the Highlands. They are dramatic, enchanting and very Game of Thrones!

Eilean Donan Castle

It doesn’t matter if Eilean Donan Castle is surrounded by a thick and moody mist or standing proud in the stillness of a clear blue sky, this castle is always photogenic! In fact, it has also featured in blockbuster movies such as James Bond and Highlander. For your convenience, there are many guided tours from Edinburgh that include Eilean Donan Castle within their itinerary.

Urquhart Castle

With such a superb location, Urquhart Castle is amongst some outstanding views of Loch Ness . Nowadays, the castle is accompanied by a huge visitor centre that includes a restaurant and a large gift shop.

Hermit’s Castle

It’s not uncommon to be dazzled by the white sand and turquoise waters of Achmelvich Beach , but if you walk a little further you will find Europe’s Smallest Castle . This is one of the more unique places to visit in Scotland!

Dunrobin Castle

About a mile past Golspie stands a classically fairytale castle that has a garden well-kept to impress. Between towers, turrets and falconry displays, this castle is on a whole other level than the others!

The official Fringe website states that the Edinburgh Fringe Festival ‘ is the single greatest celebration of arts and culture on the planet ‘. For three weeks in August, Edinburgh , Scotland’s capital city welcomes thousands of people from all over the world to honour creativity across its varying forms. It’s a colourful, energetic and joyful period as artists and performers take to the stage and locals gather in busy beer gardens.

The centrepiece of Dundee’s recent revival is Scotland’s first-ever design museum. The V&A Dundee is now something of a cultural hub in the city. Here, visitors can marvel at the evolution of design inside an array of both permanent and temporary exhibitions from around the world.

These furry beasts can be spotted in fields all over Scotland, and not just in the Scottish Highlands. In fact, you may even find one blocking your road ahead!

If you are looking for a more certain encounter with one of these cute, and very photogenic animals, then keep your eyes particularly peeled at the following locations.

Hushinish is a popular beach and park-up on the Isle of Harris . Incoming cars, campervans and motorhomes are often slowed down by a group of slow-moving Highland Cows on the road (one of which has been pictured below) .

Culloden Battlefield

Highland Cows are quite often kept in the nearby field to the entrance of the Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre . This is on the outskirts of Inverness which is the capital city of the Scottish Highlands.

Rothiemurchus

Plan the perfect date to meet a Highland Cow with the Rothiemurchus Centre near Aviemore. From there, you can follow a ranger on a coo safari to a field of hairy Highlands who will be happy to pose for a selfie, or two!

You cannae visit Scotland without going for a wee hill walk! However, if you are more adventurous, you might want to bag a Munro or two.

The Bones Caves

Both the hiking route and the remarkable views from the Bones Caves make for the perfect introductory walk to the northwest Highlands of Scotland.

Stac Pollaidh

Our beloved Stac Pollaidh is small enough to be considered an easy climb, yet tall enough to yield some absolutely breathtaking views over the Summer Isles.

Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is one of the most popular, and consequently, the busiest walk on the Isle of Skye. The ‘Old Man’ is a large prominent pinnacle of rock that stands tall amongst other interesting rock formations. This place is a haven for photographers!

Hiking to the top of Ben Nevis is one of Scotland’s bigger challenges; Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the United Kingdom. At 1,345 metres, you should have experience in hill-walking if you are going to attempt this one!

Arthur’s Seat

This recommendation is by far, not the biggest and most beautiful hill walk that Scotland has to offer, but it is a popular choice with visitors to Edinburgh . With only a short walk, you are rewarded with 360-degree views of the City of Edinburgh , the bridges, and beyond!

Knoydart is a remote peninsula that is only accessed by foot or boat. The area is dramatic and untamed with bold peaks and beautiful views across the water to the rugged Small Isle hilltops and the Skye Cuillins.

As a born and bred Scottish Highlander, I believe that the array of history that Scotland encompasses is often taken for granted by the local people. Most car journeys, or towns even, involve some kind of impressive milestone of Scotland’s past. To any visitor, there is plenty for you to spot, stop and admire.

One of Orkney’s most-visited ancient sites is Skara Brae. This is a remarkable and well-preserved Neolithic village, take a step back in time whilst you wander amongst these homes.

Callanish Standing Stones

The Callanish Standing Stones is one of Scotland’s most iconic sights of historical interest. Their exact reason for existing has been lost to history. Can you work out the mystery?

Balmoral Cairns

Did you know Scotland has a pyramid ? The majority of cairns in the Balmoral Estate were erected by Queen Victoria to commemorate members of the Royal family, with others marking important events.

There are around 790 islands off the coast of Scotland; 94 of which are inhabited. Once you’ve experienced one, island-hopping around Scotland could quickly become your new travel addiction!

Isle of Lewis and Harris

The change of pace, lifestyle and traditions of Lewis and Harris is what attracts many visitors to this island. Learn more about an island road trip around Lewis and Harris here.

Tucked away between Skye, Rona and the mainland of Scotland is the Isle of Raasay. It may only be 14 miles long and 5 miles wide, but there are several good walks and some fascinating historical sights to visit across the island.

Orkney & Shetland

The Orkney and Shetland Islands are often referred to as the Northern Isles. Each island has a distinct character, with an array of natural wonders and interesting historical sites to explore.

The Isle of Canna is the westernmost and most northerly of the four islands known as the Small Isles in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. The island is also connected to the neighbouring island of Sanday by a small road bridge and sandbanks at low tide.

Of the four islands in the Small Isles, the Isle of Rum is the largest of the archipelago. However this is not respective to the island’s population, in fact, there are many more red deer on the island than people  – we’re talking tens of residents to hundreds of deer!

Isle of Iona

The Isle of Iona offers picture-perfect sandy beaches, excellent walking opportunities, a quaint village experience and the possibility of wildlife sightings on both the land and sea. At just three miles long by one mile wide, visiting the Iona is like experiencing Scotland on a miniature scale.

One of the greatest pleasures of a visit to Scotland is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the mountainous landscapes. The Scottish Highlands is an unmissable part of the country!

Surrounded by the drama of the Glencoe Valley, Glencoe is easily one of the best places to visit in Scotland – these landscapes are to die for!

The Cairngorm National Park is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. It includes five of the six highest summits in the UK. This wild mountainous area is a playground for wildlife watchers and adventure sports enthusiasts.

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Or, perhaps you’re on a hunt for a challenging route to scramble, climb, ski or snowboard? If you are looking for a real adventure, then two towns instantly spring to mind as the best places to visit in Scotland for outdoor sports.

Fort William

Fort William is the beating heart of Scotland’s outdoor adventure sports. In fact, it’s widely reported as the ‘ Outdoor Capital of the UK ‘. If you take one wander around town, you’ll be surrounded by hillwalkers, mountain bikers, climbers and other like-minded individuals. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in the Scottish Highlands for the more adventurous travellers!

Aviemore is the gateway to the Cairngorms. It’s a happening place all year round, whether it be with snowsports or other outdoor activities. In fact, if you happen to time your visit with an event, you could find yourself being amongst anything from a Huskey Race to a Harley Davidson Rally. Hiking and wild swimming is also extremely popular in the Cairngorms.

Much of Scotland’s charm and Scottish culture can be found in the pretty communities dotted around the country. The best places to visit in Scotland for quaint villages are typically the seaside towns, though there are of course many others in between.

Situated on the northwestern coast of the Isle of Mull , the colourful fishing town of Tobermory is one of the most picturesque towns in Scotland. So much so, that the children’s TV series, Balamory, was filmed there in recent years.

Portree is the capital town of the Isle of Skye. It is yet another picture-perfect waterfront with brightly-coloured buildings. Plus, the drive there is just as gorgeous!

Dean Village

Situated five minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Princes Street, Dean Village is a much more peaceful setting on the Water of Leith in Edinburgh .

Shieldaig is a quaint village of Wester Ross in the northwest of the Scottish Highlands. As the buildings overlook Loch Torridon, the front street is worth a slow wander to take it all in.

Plockton is another one of Scotland’s pretty fishing villages. Unfortunately, the tiny streets of Plockton can’t cope with many crowds or larger vehicles so this one is not recommended for motorhomes or campervans.

Scotland’s public transport system is not the best, especially around any remote area of the country. That being the case, many choose to enjoy the expansive scenery with a self-guided road trip.

The North Coast 500

The North Coast 500, otherwise known as the NC500, is the ‘Route 66’ of the Scottish Highlands. It links together over 500 miles of unforgettable experiences and picturesque park-ups , including white sandy beaches, remote fishing villages, jaw-dropping valleys, coastal scenery then rough-and-ready mountains. The road links some of the top places to visit in Scotland.

Click here for a Highlander’s Guide to Scotland’s North Coast 500 .

Island Hopping the Outer Hebrides

The islands are where you can truly experience the wilderness of Scotland. A road trip through the Outer Hebrides will be an adventure, but spending some time on Lewis and Harris will be a great introduction. There, visitors will be able to have some of the most local experiences in Scotland without the distraction of large crowds.

It has been estimated that Scotland’s coastline is over 11,500 miles. With that being said, it would be rude not to indulge in the recipes of seafood whilst you are there!

The Oban Seafood Hut is the best place to savour superb seafood without the expense of an upmarket restaurant. It’s the small shack near the ferry terminal, usually with a queue.

Situated on the northwest coast, Mallaig is the final call along the famous Road to the Isles. It’s a fascinating harbour town which accommodates many fishermen, ferry goers and tourists disembarking the Jacobite Steam Train. Naturally, the town boasts many seafood restaurants as they sell some of the freshest produce around.

This charming port town is on the shores of Loch Broom. Ullapool is home to the award-winning Seafood Shack , this is a favourite to locals and visitors alike.

With a rich maritime history, miles of harsh coastline and wild winds, it’s unsurprising that Scotland has quite the collection of shipwrecks. Some are still unfound, whilst others have become a sight to behold as they slowly decay close to shore.

Scapa Flow is a sheltered body of water that has played an important role in travel, trade and conflict over the years. In more recent times, Scapa Flow has ranked as one of the world’s top diving destinations. Even if you don’t take a peek beneath the waters, the stories the area above the water has to tell are endless!

In my opinion, the Old Boat of Caol is Scotland’s most photogenic wreckage. Within a short drive from Fort William , this emotive shipwreck lies peacefully upon the stony beach of Corpach.

There are train connections within each of Scotland’s seven cities, plus, the rail network links many towns and villages across the country. As these services travel across the Scottish Highlands, there are many spectacular arched bridges that support the train lines; beautiful for photographs and perfect for trainspotting.

Culloden Viaduct

If you are travelling by train, you may cross the Culloden Viaduct without even realising it. The structure is in regular use, however, there aren’t any steam trains on this one.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Whether you are an avid trainspotter, an obsessed Harry Potter or someone in between, watching the Jacobite Steam Train travel across the Glenfinnan Viaduct is an unforgettable magic moment!

With the varying levels of terrain and notorious rainfall, Scotland has some pretty spectacular waterfalls hidden within glens, hills and forests.

Wailing Widow Falls

You’d think that finding beauty like the Wailing Widow Falls would only be a result of a long, enduring hike. As remote as Loch Na Gainmhich is, the whole area and the amazing waterfall are actually fairly accessible – just bring your wellies!

Steall Falls

The Steall Falls Walk is often described as one of the best short walks in Scotland. The hike is simple, yet the results are rewarding. Are you a Harry Potter fan? Steall Falls is also an iconic location that is featured in The Goblet of Fire and The Half-Blood Prince.

Scotland is one of the best places in Europe to spot marine wildlife. Also, thanks to two national parks, there are also many habitats in which you can observe land mammals, and birds too!

On the road to Hushinish, a small parking area and a 1.3-mile long track direct hikers to an observatory that has been built specifically to watch golden eagles.

Duncansby Head

Whether you are a birdwatcher or not, you will not want to miss out on an opportunity to see puffins . Duncansby Head is just one of the many places to see these cute and colourful birds. The best time to spot them is between March and May.

The Outer Hebrides

Marine wildlife is in an abundance in and around the Outer Hebrides . In fact, you are likely to spot something on a ferry ride across the Minch. The Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust have a great website with specie profiles, and where you might be likely to spot them.

Orkney and Shetland can offer the best chance of spotting killer whales. You are more likely to spot them during the summer months of May to July, although sightings have been made during these times.

Chanonry Point

A narrow peninsula, which is near Rosemarkie and a little further from Inverness , is the ideal location for spotting dolphins in the Moray Firth. Dolphin activity at this location depends on the tidal conditions, but if you time it right, you’ll witness a great display of bottlenose dolphins from a very close distance.

There are hundreds of lochs in Scotland, and the sea is just as uninviting, but the invigorating, adrenaline-pumping splash into cold water is still an unmissable Scottish experience. Here are all but a few of the best places to visit in Scotland for a wild swim…

Wild swimming in Loch Ness should only be done at your own risk because this body of water has a resident monster!.. She’s called Nessie.

Loch Morlich

With only a short drive from Aviemore, Loch Morlich is a very popular option for watersports, walking, relaxation and wild swimming.

Loch an Eilein

Loch an Eilein is an extremely beautiful body of water that feels secluded from the world by the pines of Rothiemurchus Forest. All of these natural features surround a ruined island castle that sits peacefully within swimming distance from the shore.

Achmelvich Beach

This beach is so deserving of its third mention on this list of ‘the best places to visit in Scotland’. With clear water, white sand and an alluring coastline to explore; it’s a haven for wild swimmers.

This may be the answer to all of your questions!.. It has all of the Scotland destinations plotted on an interactive map for your convenience. That way, you will not miss out on any of the best places to visit in Scotland!

This Google Map Legend showcases 140+ need-to-know coordinates within our bonnie Scottish Highlands & Islands:

• Awesome Wild Camping Park-Ups
• Best Walks, Viewpoints, Beaches
• Bucket List Locations
• Accessible Showers & Fresh Water Taps
• Relevant Links to Online Travel Guides

Let’s go! @katie.maree

Hey! I'm a Scottish backpacker turned digital nomad with a passion for the outdoors, van life, and international travel. I travelled 100 countries before I turned 30 years of age. Now... Let's go everywhere!

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15 Best Cities in Scotland To Visit in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Scotland is one of the world’s most sought-after locations. The northernmost country of the UK is known for its tales of Scottish kings and queens, patriotic sense of culture, and creative talents. And while rural regions like the Scottish Highlands have enticing, windswept views, cities in Scotland are some of the best places to embrace Scottish life – past and present. You’ll find museums, galleries, restaurants, hikes, and history galore.

Table of Contents

The Very Best Towns and Cities in Scotland

This guide will cover the best cities in Scotland, with a few of the most unmissable towns sprinkled in for good measure. Scotland’s cities and towns are internationally renowned, which is incredible considering that some have such small populations. Excited? You should be. Let’s get started.

1. Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the obvious starting place when planning to visit Scotland. The capital city of Scotland is the most famous of all the cities in the country. It is full of historic buildings and rich history. Edinburgh is a beautiful city with a photogenic city center. You’ll need to dedicate time just to walk the streets in Edinburgh Old Town – trust us, you’ll be desperate to maximize time on the cobbled streets with Edinburgh Castle above you.

When you aren’t in the Old Town or visiting Edinburgh Castle, there are plenty of other activities in Edinburgh. As the second largest city in Scotland, it has one of the best attraction scenes and a lively atmosphere, added to by Edinburgh University. We recommend hiking the short walk to Arthur’s Seat for sunrise or sunset, shopping on the Royal Mile, climbing the Scott Monument, and visiting the Sheep Heid (one of Scotland’s oldest pubs).

Edinburgh was always guaranteed a place on our list. The iconic capital city is not only one of the most beautiful cities in Scotland but also one of the most exciting for various attractions and things to do. Edinburgh is easily accessed by international visitors. It is also well-connected to London by train if you are traveling from England.

Read more of our Edinburgh guides

• Things to do in Edinburgh
• Three-day Edinburgh itinerary
• Where to stay in Edinburgh

2. Aberdeen

Aberdeen is the third most populous city (check out the official Aberdeen population  here ) and one of the best cities in Scotland. Aberdeen is known for being a port city located on the shores of the North Sea. The city is also renowned for producing local granite and has an industrial but cosmopolitan atmosphere. Its history of granite production has given the city centre a distinctive look, with eye-catching silvery-grey buildings that are stunning to admire while wandering around on foot.

The best things to do in Aberdeen include visiting Duthie Park, the Gordon Highlanders Museum, St Machar’s Cathedral, and the Aberdeen Art Gallery. The city has a mixture of outdoor and indoor attractions, with plenty of museums and historical attractions. Overall, Aberdeen won a place in this guide for its sense of character and lingering industrial history.

Read More about The Best Thing to See in Scotland

• 26 Best Things to do in Scotland

Glasgow has a reputation for being Scotland’s ‘other city’, regularly coming second behind Edinburgh. However, over the past few decades, Glasgow has really come into its own, and it is now considered one of the best cities in Scotland. Glasgow is situated inland, just under Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, and perfect for country day trips. The city has a large number of museums. It is Scotland’s largest city, offering plenty of entertainment to sink your teeth into. Glasgow has great green space, too, with the River Clyde running through the city centre and parks like Glasgow Green, Richmond Park, and Pollok Country Park.

The best things to do in Glasgow are Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow Science Centre, George Square, and the People’s Palace. While if you want a more laidback experience, you can spend an hour or two hopping between the shops and great restaurants in the bustling city centre. Glasgow has a diverse and fast-paced atmosphere, landing it in our guide.

Perth is a riverside city situated along the banks of the River Tay. It is a beautiful city with a regal atmosphere and distinguished historical architecture. Perth is nicknamed the ‘Fair City’ of Scotland due to its close links to Scottish royalty throughout history.

Before Edinburgh rose to stardom, Perth was Scotland’s capital city until around 1452. Many consider it Scotland’s ‘first city,’ home to many traditions and historical events. For instance, the Stone of Destiny was housed at Scone Abbey, and many monarchs were crowned there in the city’s younger years. For those interested in Scottish history and royalty, a visit to Perth should be on the cards.

The best things to do in Perth are to visit Elcho Castle, Branklyn Garden, Black Watch Museum, Fergusson Gallery, and Perth Museum and Art Gallery. Of course, to appreciate the city’s royal history to the fullest, a visit to Scone Palace is also a must. The palace has over 1,000 years of history and was the designated crowning place of Scottish kings. As you may have guessed, Perth’s close ties to Scottish royalty and royal history earned it a top position in our guide. It is a unique and fascinating small city to visit in Scotland.

Dundee is another city on the eastern coast of Scotland and a fantastic place to visit. Dundee is the fourth largest city in the country and well-known for its creative industries, being a UNESCO City of Design and hosting the only V&A museum, not in London. If you want a dynamic experience in a Scottish city with lots of art, design, and creative culture, Dundee is the one for you. Its creative culture makes it one of the most exciting cities in Scotland and has secured it a place in our guide.

So, what is there to do in Dundee? In short, a lot. You can visit the Discovery Point and RRS Discovery, Contemporary Arts Museum, Glamis Castle, Scotland’s Jute Museum, Dundee Science Centre, and Mcmanus Art Gallery & Museum. Prioritize a visit to Dundee’s art museums, which are fantastic places to spend a wet and windy day.

6. Stirling

Stirling is one of the most historic cities in Scotland and a massively photogenic city break. Stirling is known for its political history – be that the crowning of Mary Queen of Scots or rebellions against the English. The city is laid out with Stirling Castle on an isolated crag above Stirling Old Town and the spire of the National Wallace Monument on Abbey Craig. Speaking of William Wallace, Stirling also overlooks the battleground of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, where William defeated the English in 1297.

Stirling is a legendary city – packed with stories of fights for Scottish independence and massively associated with the Scottish warrior hero William Wallace. The amount of emotionally engaging Scottish history in Stirling guaranteed it a spot in this guide.

The National Wallace Monument is Stirling’s most popular attraction and hosts numerous exhibits in memory of William Wallace. The most prized artifact is Wallace’s longsword, which is a massive 1.63 meters in length. Apart from the monument, the best things to do in Stirling include visiting Stirling Castle, the Holy Rude, Old Town Jail, and Robert the Bruce Statue. Spend at least two days in Stirling, as this city has a lot to unpack.

7. Inverness

Inverness is another city central to Scottish history. The small city is one of the most northern Scottish cities and is just a short drive away from Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield. These two attractions draw most people to Inverness, with Loch Ness rumored to be the home of a great sea monster and the Culloden Battlefield, the hallowed last standpoint of the Jacobite Uprising. A visit to Inverness is coming face to face with dark stories and tragic history. It is one of the best places in Scotland to learn about the history of the UK and early life in Scotland.

Apart from visiting Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield, you could tour Urquhart Castle. This fairytale-like castle is located just an hour’s drive north of Inverness, making it a straightforward day trip. In the city, there’s also Inverness Castle, Inverness Cathedral, the Ness Islands, and the infamous Leakey’s Bookshop.

Read more about visiting Inverness

• Dunrobin Castle

8. Fort William

Fort William is technically a town, but it is such a significant spot in the Highlands we had to include it. It is a gateway to Ben Nevis, Loch Linnhe, and Scotland’s major skiing scene. Hiking lovers will adore staying in Fort William as Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the UK – known all around the world.

While in winter, skiers descend on the city to enjoy the slopes. Fort William is also easy to visit if you want to experience the Highlands without renting a car, as it is connected to Glasgow and Edinburgh by public transport.

Fort William is an exciting town in Scotland and one of the best places for outdoor adventures in the UK. Whether you want to go hiking, skiing, or fishing, it is a peaceful but adventurous holiday spot. And, when you aren’t keeping active, you can relax in the quaint streets with plenty of independent shops and cafes. There’s also the West Highland Museum and Ben Nevis Whiskey Distillery to explore.

9. Kirkwall

Like Fort William, Kirkwall lacks the Scottish city status. However, this town has a lot to offer – starting with a unique location on the Orkney Islands, north of the Scottish mainland. Kirkwall is the largest town on the Orkney Islands and was originally a Norse settlement. Nowadays, it has a population of around  7,000 people  and is a picturesque little port ‘capital’ of the archipelago. It is still full of Viking history and character, though.

Kirkwall’s striking location and interesting history bagged it a spot in our guide. However, it has some brilliant attractions as well. The best things to do in Kirkwall include visiting the St Magnus Cathedral, Orkney Museum, Highland Park Whisky Distillery, Ring of Brodgar, and Orkney Wireless Museum.

Kirkwall is a brilliant choice if you want a lesser-visited, unique destination in Scotland. Kirkwall is best reached by ferry, and regular ferry services depart off the north coastline – what better way to channel your inner Viking?

10. Portree

Portree has a similar vibe to Kirkwall, despite being easier to reach. Portree is the largest town (and unofficial capital) on the Isle of Skye. It is reached by crossing over a large bridge connecting the island to the mainland. It is considered the gateway to all Skye has to offer – including the magical Old Man of Storr hike – and is characterized by its famed row of colorful houses overlooking the harbor. For a cute, slow-paced introduction to Scottish island life, Portree is a straightforward and beautiful option. It is ideal for those who want to stay on the main tourist trails but get off the Scottish mainland.

The best things to do in Portree include visiting the iconic harbor, the Lump, and hiking the Scorrybreac Trail. Of course, you should take advantage of Portree’s location to explore the Isle of Skye, with attractions like the Fairy Pools, Kilt Rock, Mealt Falls, An Corran Beach, and Fairy Glenn within driving distance. Portree made our list as the best town to use as a base to experience the Isle of Skye.

Oban is a large town in Argyll and Bute. It is a resort hotspot, with its population ballooning each summer with the drastic influx of visiting tourists. Oban wears many caps; some refer to it as Scotland’s seafood capital, and others as the gateway to the Western Highlands or Hebridean Isles. Whatever you choose to associate Oban with, you’ll enjoy the port views and stunning ruins on Battery Hill above the town centre.

Things to do in Oban include visiting McCaig’s Tower and Battery Hill, going whisky tasting at Oban Distillery, relaxing on Ganavan Sands, and exploring Gylen Castle, Dunstaffnage Castle, and Dunollie Museum. Oban has lots of history and is highly walkable. It is beautiful and compact – perfect for those who want a Scottish town with which they can quickly become familiar. Oban is also ideal for taking day trips from nearby Scottish islands if you feel more adventurous. The most popular are Lismore, Mull, and Iona.

Read more about Oban

• 7 Crazy Adventures in Scotland

Ayr is a beautiful place to visit in Scotland and is known as a summer holiday-style destination, with long sandy beaches and that slightly cheesy seaside appeal. The town is walkable and full of fun. For those interested in poetry, Ayr also has a claim to fame through Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard. Robert was born in Ayr, and you can visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum during your stay.

Ayr is a ‘seaside town’ getaway. However, it isn’t just arcades and beaches – which is why it made it onto our list. Ayr has many attractions, such as Burns Cottage, Alloway Auld Kirk, Rozelle Estate, Belleisle Conservatory, and the Wallace Tower. It also has a strong sense of culture through its literature links to Robert Burns. For a lighthearted, fun beach getaway, Ayr has some good sightseeing to balance out the beach days.

13. St Andrews

St Andrews sits on Scotland’s east coast, just above Edinburgh. The town has many positive qualities. However, it is most known for its golf courses and incredible golfing tournaments. St Andrew’s most famed golf course is the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, which you can book to visit. St Andrews is also known for its university, so when you aren’t on a golf course, you can experience a sociable, youthful nightlife.

Further attractions in St Andrews include St Andrews Museum, St Andrews Castle, the Wardlaw Museum, and (not to stray too far from its golfing identity) the R&A World Golf Museum. You can also visit the Old Course, which houses an ancient 18-hole course founded in the 15th century.

14. Dunfermline

Looking for more royal history and insight into early Scottish life? Dunfermline acted as another capital city of Scotland, covering the time period between Perth and Edinburgh. The town was favored in the reign of Malcolm III and was seen as a royal stronghold.

Nowadays, you can still explore Dunfermline Abbey and Palace, albeit in ruins. It is a fantastic city to escape the crowds of Edinburgh yet still embrace royal history and notable architecture. This balance of a lesser-trodden destination with renowned attractions won Dunfermline a spot in our guide.

You can visit the Dunfermline Abbey and Palace, take a walk in Pittencrief Park, or stop by the Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries. On the city outskirts, Townhill Country Park is also stunning to walk around on a sunny day. Dunfermline is a much quieter city to experience compared to others on our list, and you can easily sightsee all of the city centres in a day or two.

15. Falkirk

Another destination just outside of Edinburgh, Falkirk is a town most famed for its colossal statue of kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel. The Kelpies are two massive horse heads depicting a Scottish mythological legend that drew men into water to drown.

The 30-meter-high statues are made of steel and are fittingly set next to water features in true keeping with Scottish legends. Falkirk is highly associated with its relationship to water. It is right next to a series of canals, including the Union and Forth, and Clyde canals. The Falkirk Wheel famously connects these two with a rotating boat lift system.

Falkirk is a wonderful place to visit and experience more residential life in Scotland. The town is best experienced by the canal – who knows, you’ll be brave enough to tackle the Falkirk Wheel. You can stay a couple of nights in the town centre and then book a couple of nights on a canal holiday, exploring the surroundings independently by boat.

Scotland FAQs

What are the 7 main cities in Scotland?

The main cities in Scotland are Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow, Inverness, Perth, and Stirling. These cities are all important centers of population, culture, and industry in Scotland, and each has its own unique character and history.

What is Scotland’s biggest city?

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland in terms of population. It has a population of approximately 600,000 people and is located on the River Clyde in the country’s west-central lowlands.

How many cities are in Scotland UK?

There are approximately 79 cities in Scotland. Some of the largest and most well-known cities in Scotland include Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Dundee.

Which city is more beautiful in Scotland?

It is difficult to determine which city in Scotland is the most beautiful, as beauty is subjective and different people may have different opinions. That being said, there are many cities in Scotland that are known for their natural beauty and historic charm. Some cities that are frequently cited as being particularly beautiful include Edinburgh, with its castle and historic Royal Mile; Inverness, located in the Scottish Highlands and known for its natural beauty; and St Andrews, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and historic university.

Did You Enjoy Our Favorite Cities in Scotland?

Scotland is a massively popular country in the UK, and after hearing more about its best cities, you now know why. Scotland’s cities and towns make up the many hearts of the country. A city break is a perfect way to immerse yourself in Scottish culture.

Have a wonderful trip to Scotland. And if you have extra time, why not combine a city break with the  North Coast 500 road trip ?

Plan Your Next Trip to Scotland With These Resources

• 22 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland
• Dunnet Head, Scotland: Panoramic Views, WWII Bunkers, and a Lighthouse
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Clava Cairns, Scotland: Stone Circles and a Mysterious Portal into the Past
• Culloden Battlefield, Scotland: A Tribute to an Epic Battle

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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1 thought on “15 Best Cities in Scotland To Visit in 2024”

Scotland is one of the places I plan to visit this year. I am particularly curious about their food.

• NORTHERN IRELAND
• TRAVEL TIPS

These are the 13 Cutest Small Towns in Scotland

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Looking for beautiful small towns in Scotland to visit? We are here to help!

Scotland is a land of wilderness, lochs and mountains. There is so much to do here, especially if you love the outdoors !

You will also find many pretty small towns in Scotland and visiting them should be on your bucket list whether you are a local or first-time visitor.

From Edinburgh to the islands, we tell you everything about the cutest Scottish small towns!

🔎 Table of Contents

1. Portree, Isle of Skye

Portree is surrounded by magnificent hills and an attractive natural harbor where you can stay to enjoy a cruise or relax after a long day. It began as a small fishing village about two centuries ago.

It is the main town on the Isle of Skye and an excellent base to explore the area.

Skye is a paradise for people who love the outdoors. From Portree, you can easily get to the Quiraing, Old Man of Storr and Mealt Falls.

The most beautiful part of the town is the harbour because that’s where you’ll find the beautiful row of colourful houses.

Other places of interest include the Portree iCenter and the Skye Blue Art Gallery. If you will be staying close to the sea, make sure you visit a restaurant to enjoy the delicious local cuisines.

For authentic and traditional food, head to the Isles Inn pub on the main square. They are dog-friendly too!

HOW TO GET TO PORTREE: It’s very easy to get to Isle of Skye by car. The Skye Bridge is free and it’s very easy from the mainland.

Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour that includes Portree and other famous attractions on Skye. Tours are available from:

• Inverness. See prices.
• Edinburgh. See prices.
• Glasgow. See prices.

WHERE TO STAY: The Portree Hotel is ideally located in the town centre. It was built in 1875 and is a beautiful building. They have rooms for solo travellers, couples and families of 4.

Oban is a seaside town located within the Argyll and Bute council area. It’s mainly known as the gateway to the isles, especially Isle of Mull.

It’s also famous for its delicious seafood! That’s one of the perks of visiting a town with a harbour, the seafood is exceptional! You can experience it in one of the local restaurants or opt for a seafood tour of Oban. See prices here.

You can walk around the town to discover the cute streets but if you want to make the best of your time, make sure to go up to the tower.

It’s only 10 minutes walk and the views are well worth it! You’ll also find a lot of cafes and restaurants in Oban but make sure to book in advance as they can get pretty busy.

Finally, Oban is also one of the best kayaking destinations in Scotland. If you’ve always dreamt of going kayaking in the sea and camping, that will be an excellent place to do so!

HOW TO GET TO OBAN: You can easily get to Oban by car. It takes 2h15 from Glasgow.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Glasgow ( prices here ) or from Edinburgh ( see prices here ).

WHERE TO STAY IN OBAN: Failte Bed & Breakfast is an excellent place to stay in Oban, especially for a couple. See reviews here.

Nestled near the Scottish borders, Kelso has a lot of beautiful attractions to see, especially for nature lovers.

It is a small, agricultural town that was once the most powerful in Scotland before it was damaged by the English during the war.

Everywhere you go in this town you will find beautiful architectural buildings and designs that are a testament to the era when the town thrived. 

Today, Kelso is still a popular town in Scotland, with beautiful attractions to explore.

Castles seem to be everywhere with the most prominent ones being the Smailholm Tower and the Floors Castle, and Kelso Abbey and Gardens.

To fully appreciate the ancient architectural designs, you should step into the St. Andrews Scottish Episcopal Church.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive from Edinburgh to Kelso. It’s about 1h15 drive.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Edinburgh which includes both Kelso and Alnwick castle. See prices here.

WHERE TO STAY: Queenshead Hotel Kelso is an authentic and cute hotel located in the heart of Kelso. See reviews here.

4. Plockton

Plockton is a small village in the Scottish Highlands . If you are looking for a cute and authentic village in Scotland, it will be the perfect destination!

As you roam around, you’ll discover cute painted cottages and beautiful white houses. It almost feels like you are abroad, especially if you go to the waterfront where you can find rows of palmtrees.

Plockton is a relaxing place to stay and perfect for a romantic staycation in the UK. Cycling, walking… there are a lot of peaceful activities here.

You can also go on a boat tour on the lochs nearby.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can get to Plockton by car. It takes a bit under 2 hours from Inverness.

If you don’t want to spend the weekend, you should opt for a day tour from Edinburgh that includes also Applecross and Gleneg, two other cute villages in Scotland. See prices here.

WHERE TO STAY: The Haven Guest House is the perfect place to stay in Plockton, especially for a couple or small family. See prices.

5. Brodick, Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is the largest island in the Firth of Clyde and Brodick is the main village, making it a convenient place from which you will explore the island and surrounding towns.

It is home to numerous attractions including the Brodick Castle, garden and country park, the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum, the Auchrannie Leisure Center, the Arran Coastal Way (for nature and wildlife lovers), the Isle of Arran brewery (where you can taste wine) and the Arran Sense of Scotland (Where you can buy a souvenir).

Kids will enjoy visiting the Playbarn, an indoor play center inside the town.

HOW TO GET THERE: You will need a car to explore properly the Isle of Arran. You can take the ferry from Ardrossan and will need to book in advance. They also offer island hopper tickets so if you want to visit several Scottish islands, you may want to opt for those instead.

The tickets are not too expensive but still pricey enough not to go for a single day. If you can spend at least a weekend, that will be better.

Alternatively, you can opt for a multi-day tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow .

WHERE TO STAY: The Douglas Hotel is an absolutely stunning hotel in Brodick featuring stunning views over the bay. See reviews here.

6. Tobermory, Isle of Mull

Built as a fishing port in the 18th century, Tobermory is the main town on Isle of Mull and one of the most colourful small towns in the UK.

The best place to visit is the Tobermory harbour. You’ll be able to admire the vibrant colours of the row of houses there. It’s a great photo spot!

You can also visit the Mull Museum, Mull Aquarium, the distillery and the lighthouse.

HOW TO GET THERE: There is no bridge to Isle of Mull so you will need to book a ferry ticket from Oban. Again, if you want to visit several islands, the island hopping ticket will work out cheaper.

Make sure you visit with a car as you won’t be able to visit much more on the island without it.

Alternatively, you can opt for a multi-day tour to Isle of Mull from Edinburgh or Glasgow .

WHERE TO STAY: Western Isles Hotel is a stunning hotel overlooking the bay. It’s such a beautiful place and ideal for a romantic getaway. See reviews here.

7. Kirkcudbright

Situated on the banks of River Dee, Kirkcudbright is the only town with a working harbour on the Solway Coast.

The town was very popular with Scottish artists in the 19th century. If you visit here, expect to see all kinds of creative artworks, paintings, and sculptures that have stood the test of time.

There are the Kirkcudbright galleries, the Stewartry Museum, the ICenter, the Orchardton Tower, the Maclellan’s Castle, the Anwoth Old Kirk, the Whitehouse Gallery, the Tolbooth Art Center, the Harbor Cottage gallery, and other artistic attractions to visit.

Outdoor lovers can explore gardens and hiking trails in the town.

The Barhill woods, Elizabeth MacGregor Nursery, the River Dee walk, and the Dhoon Beach are great places to take a hike in Kirkcudbright.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive to Kirkcudbright from Dumfries (45 minutes) or Carlisle (1h30).

WHERE TO STAY: The Kirkcudbright Bay Hotel is a super cute hotel located in the centre. They also have a traditional bar and restaurant. See reviews here.

8. Fort Augustus

Fort Augustus offers a magnificent view of Loch Ness, the beautiful expanses that are a popular tourist site in Scotland.

Although it has not been proven that the Loch Ness monster exists, tourists still enjoy cruising in these waterways because of the spectacular views of the surrounding nature.

Fort Augustus is surrounded by sprawling hills and mountains that are characterized by jutting rocks and uneven terrain.

The Suidhe viewpoint is a vantage point to sample the town’s scenic natural wonders.

While here, visit the Fort Augustus War memorial centre, the Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Foundation, General Wade’s Military roads, the Fort Augustus Light House, and the Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre.

A cruise on Loch Ness is a must-do activity within this beautiful town. See prices here.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can drive from Inverness to Fort Augustus. It’s only 55 minutes.

Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Inverness , Glasgow or Edinburgh .

WHERE TO STAY: Lock Chambers, Caledonian Canal Centre is a great hotel in the centre of Fort Augustus. It’s a great place to stay especially for couples. See prices here.

9. Saint Monans, Fife

Saint Monans is an old, small fishing port in East Neuk. Salt production and fishing were the main income-generating activities in this town, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

You can still find the old, exhausted salt pans in the town today and they have a lot of historical significance to the town’s residents.

They also act as landmarks when you are walking or passing by the town.

These are some of the many attractions you can expect to see when you come into the beautiful town.

Visit the St. Monans Church of Scotland, a beautiful church and graveyard that offers you beautiful views of the sea.

Other places you can visit in this town include the Newark Castle, St. Monans War Memorial and cemeteries, and the St. Monans Harbour.

Most of the old buildings in this town have been restored to retain their architectural significance.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive to St Monans from Edinburgh. It takes 1h20. Alternatively, you can take bus X60 from Edinburgh. It’s a 2-hour ride.

WHERE TO STAY: Harbour Heights is a cute holiday house in the centre. It can sleep up to 6 guests. See prices here.

10. Anstruther

This was originally set up as a fishing village as well.

As a tourist, the best way to experience the little town is by taking a stroll on the cobblestones that pave the walkways before enjoying the award-winning local fish and chips delicacy from the Anstruther Fish Bar.

Some of the best attractions you can visit while you are in this town include the Isle of May National nature reserve, the Scottish Fisheries Museum, the Anstruther harbour, the Anstruther lifeboat station, the bow house and the farmer’s market, the Anstruther cemetery, and the Billow Ness beach. 

11. Killin, Loch Tay

Killin has a rich history. The name translates to the white (or fair) church in Gaelic and like most small towns in Scotland, it has a very rich history and heritage.

Because of its ideal location close to the Trossachs National Park, the Ben Lawers National Reserve, and Loch Lomond, visitors can enjoy uninterrupted access to abundant wildlife and lush landscapes.

Kayak lovers can paddle in the rapids that follow the River leading to the Falls Of Dochart or enjoy the scenic hiking trails at Loch Tay.

Other places of interest include the Stone Circle Killin, the Finlarig Castle, the Breadalbane Folklore Center, the Killin railway viaduct, and the Acharn Forest. 

12. Stromness

Stromness is an old, well-established seaport that contains beautiful homes built in the ancient Viking style.

Stretching for over a mile along the Hamnavoe, Stromness narrow streets weave their way past closely-tacked buildings and onto the harbour where cute little boats dock.

Cobblestones line up the walkways, making this one of the most beautiful small towns in Scotland.

13. North Berwick 

Although it’s one of Scotland’s small towns, North Berwick is well known among golfers, birders, and just about anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. 

To get to North Berwick it’s simple enough from Edinburgh. It should only take an hour or less on A1 and then A198. On the ScotRail you’ll arrive in 35 minutes, which is even better!

Birders take note: North Berwick is home to the Scottish Seabird Center and the world’s largest colony of gannets. One of the best things to do is take a boat out to Bass Rock to see them up close.

With ideal conditions for golfing, it’s no wonder there are 25 different golf courses in North Berwick. 

Set along the seashore, North Berwick has super tasty seafood. Ordering the fish and chips is a no-brainer. No visit to North Berwick is complete without a walk along the beach.

With calm waters and wide sandy shores, you’ll love the view and breathing in the sea air. 

Don’t miss exploring Tantallon Castle perched on the cliffs above the water.

You may also be interested:

• 19 Best Things to do on the Isle of Arran, Scotland
• 5-day Scotland Itinerary: how to spend 5 days in Scotland (+5 alternatives)
• 7 Best Staycations in Scotland
• 10 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit Scotland

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

20 Prettiest Seaside Towns in Scotland You Must Visit

July 6, 2023

Scotland is… as you know… part of an island.

And as an unsurprising result of that, it has loads of sands and shorelines.

It’s also pretty sparsely-populated, with some surprisingly-small towns and villages dotted around its sprawl.

Put those two seemingly-unrelated things together, and what do you get? That’s right—a nation with loads of lovely seaside settlements.

If you don’t know me already, I’m Paul, and not only is Scotland one of my absolute favorite places on this planet, but I’ve also dedicated countless hours to wandering its captivating landscapes, immersing myself in its vibrant cities, scaling its majestic mountains, and unraveling the secrets of its enchanting coasts. With this perfect blend of passion and exploration, you can bet this article will cast a spell on you my friend!

So in this guide, I’ve brought you my favorites, with a big fat list of the 20 best seaside towns in Scotland . Grab your backpack, slip in some sandwiches, and come join the fun!

1. Plockton

6. st andrews, 7. eyemouth, 8. north berwick, 9. ullapool, 10. durness, 11. tobermory, 12. lossiemouth, 13. stranraer, 14. brodick, 15. glencoe, 16. gairloch, 17. portpatrick, 18. peterhead, 19. lochcarron, 20. lerwick, before you go.

Loads of people reckon this is the most charming seaside town in Scotland.

And depending on my mood when you ask me, I might be one of them.

With a tiny population of around 400 people, Plockton is alluringly cute and cozy. It’s home to a few boats and houses, views of little bays and distant mountains, and pretty much nothing else.

The village has been used as a filming site loads of times—so if TV and film crews think it looks nice, it must be alright.

I love it, you’ll love it, everybody loves it. And I massively recommend it.

If you don’t have a car, you can (surprisingly) take a direct train here from Inverness. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

Highlights of visiting Plockton:

Honestly (and this might surprise you but), Portree isn’t as impressive as some of the other places we’ve covered on this list.

But it’s the main town on the Isle of Skye . And if you’re not gonna visit the Isle of Skye while you’re roaming around Scotland, you’re a big dum-dum.

Bigger than most people realize, it has a wander-worthy bay, a pretty harbor area, boat trips, those famous colorful houses, and loads of places to munch on meals. For tasty but no-fuss, I recommend the welcoming Isles Inn.

For most people, Portree is obviously the best base on the island—and if you want to see Skye’s major highlights without wasting time, trips like this (massively recommended, by the way) all leave from the town.

Highlights of visiting Portree:

Also close to Skye (you can actually take a ferry from here to the island), Mallaig flies under the radar a bit.

A still-working fishing port, it’s not as pretty as some other Scottish towns. But it’s a great base for west-coast adventures—serving up boat rides, rail trips, bike rides, long and short hikes, and loads more.

To get here, you can take a direct train from Glasgow… and that’s without doubt the best way to reach Mallaig. This rail ride is famous as one of the prettiest train journeys in Europe (and it runs along the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you probably know from the Harry Potter movies ).

Highlights of visiting Mallaig:

Another west-coast beauty-fest, Oban is like someone took all the Scottish seaside-town clichés, and bundled them into one lovely place. It’s so scenic that it’s almost funny.

It offers long and short boat trips (to distant islands, seal colonies, and bird colonies), top-quality hiking, and the best seafood scene in Scotland.

Because there’s so much to do from Oban, loads of people overlook actually exploring the town itself. But to see all the best bits (and learn all the best stuff), a walking tour is a good idea —you can hit all the historical heritage spots with a bit of context.

Like Mallaig, you can also reach Oban from Glasgow, by direct train. It’s obvs not as incredible as the Mallaig ride, but it’s still pretty nice.

Highlights of visiting Oban:

The prettiest coastal town in Fife, this cobbles-and-harbor cute-spot sits 90 minutes north of Edinburgh.

Honestly, there’s not a massive amount to do here (although you can walk and cycle along lovely shoreline routes in both directions). But when a place is this pretty, no-one really cares.

Get an ice cream, or fish and chips ( Crail Fish Bar & Cafe is full of tasty treats), watch the fishing boats, get lost in the little lanes, and just soak up the charm. Oh, and if you head here in summer, time your trip to coincide with Crail Food Festival .

To get here without a car, take the direct number 95 bus from St Andrews.

Highlights of visiting Crail:

The most famous of all the seaside towns in Scotland, Fife’s St Andrews is pretty close to Crail. But it’s much bigger than its nearby neighbor.*

*with a still-small population of around 15,000 people, it’s actually the biggest town on our list.

Anyway, you probably know St Andrews for a few different things: famous golf courses, its historic university, a massive cathedral, and its kooky collection of mish-mash architecture. To learn about those places (and some heritage), check out this history tour , and this ghost tour (spooky!).

But the town is also way more than that:

It’s a good option if you’re hunting for a multi-day base you can tackle loads of adventures from. In and around St Andrews, you get beaches, short walks, many-day hikes, kid-friendly stuff, close proximity to Edinburgh. sort-of-nearby Lomond Hills Regional Park , and plenty more.

No matter who you are and what you want to do, St Andrews should be one of your top options.

Highlights of visiting St Andrews:

If you’ve got kids, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

The area’s beaches are big and sandy, there are endless casual places to munch, and the harbor is a nice place for a fun little wander.

There’s also a great caravan park , loads of boat trips (taking in caves, cliffs, shores, sands, seals, seabirds, and maybe even dolphins), and a local man who’ll help you feed the seals .

And last of all, it’s a great base for day trips. From Eyemouth, it’s easy to reach Edinburgh, Berwick, underrated Dunbar, and lots of littler places.

In short, if you’re looking for a family-friendly place, Eyemouth is my #1 recommendation.

Highlights of visiting Eyemouth:

Pretty close to Eyemouth, North Berwick isn’t quite as well-known as its neighbor.

But it’s just as fun-packed, and it’s easy to reach from Edinburgh. So if you’re seeking a simple but lovely seaside-town day trip from Scotland’s capital, you’ve found it.

Highlights here include boat trips to bird-covered Bass Rock, loads of great beaches (Yellowcraig is my favorite), the family-friendly Scottish Seabird Center , some great golfing, the massive hulking ruins of Tantallon Castle , and lots of informal places to eat and drink (dog-friendly hipster hub Steampunk Coffee is great).

Highlights of visiting North Berwick:

The most well-known town on the North Coast 500 *, I love Ullapool.

*In case you have no idea what I’m banging on about here, I’m talking about one of the world’s best road trips—you totally need to tackle it.

For me, Ullapool is what Scottish coastal towns are all about. Brimming with an unpretentious charm, you get hyper-fresh seafood, great campsites, gentle port walks, loads of nearby hill hikes, and a bunch of friendly faces.

If you can only visit one seaside town in Scotland (and time and transport aren’t an issue), this is the one I recommend. I guarantee you’ll love the place, and you’ll start making plans to move here immediately.

Highlights of visiting Ullapool:

Further north up the North Coast 500 route, you’ve got Durness. Sitting on the western side of Scotland’s northern coast, this is one of the most remote entries on our list.

But even though it’s remote, it’s a relatively busy place… and it serves up loads of varied adventure options. Popular choices include Smoo Cave (a sea-and-freshwater cavern, great if you’re traveling with kids), Golden Eagle Zip Line (the most northerly zip line in Europe), the walk to Faraid Head, and the chocolate-filled Cocoa Mountain of Balnakeil.

… and make sure you also explore the sands and shores of Balnakeil Beach, one of the best beaches in Scotland.

If you’re into camping , pitch up at Sango Sands. One of the best campsites in Scotland, I love the place.

Highlights of visiting Durness:

You know that famous kids’ TV show Balamory? The one with all the colorful houses?

Well, that was filmed in Tobermory—and the cheerful fictional town based on it isn’t particularly different from the real-life place.

The colorful capital of the Isle of Mull, it’s packed with friendly faces and loads of stuff to do—and it’s probably one of the nicest coastal settlements you’ve ever seen. Of course, it’s the island’s best base for exploring all of Mull (with its walks, beaches, and big lovely lochs)…

… but there’s also plenty to enjoy in and around Tobermory itself.

To get here, hop on a ferry from the mainland departure point of Kilchoan.

Highlights of visiting Tobermory:

When I first came to Lossiemouth, the place was a nice little surprise.

I only visited cos my friend lived here… so I wasn’t really expecting much. But it exceeded all my expectations, and I totally fell in love with the place.

(Anyway, enough of the mundane insights of my life).

Lossiemouth is great for all types of people, but it’s particularly good for anyone with kids. Here, you get plenty of places to eat and drink, a great caravan site, lots of safe beaches, close proximity to loads of fun and day trips, and endless servings of ice cream.

The nearest city is Inverness. To get to Lossiemouth, hop on a train from Inverness to Elgin, then a bus from Elgin to Lossiemouth. The entire journey will usually take around 90 minutes.

Highlights of visiting Lossiemouth:

Here’s a controversial one for you.

Most people (who haven’t been to Stranraer) have some weird idea that the town is a horrible dirty ming-fest.

Those people are wrong.

Stranraer is actually a lovely place with lovely people. And it’s a good option if you’re with kids—it’s bigger than most places on our list, with all the comforts and conveniences you and your kids could need. You’ll always find somewhere to stay, somewhere to eat, and stuff to keep you entertained.

Other perks include beaches, a pretty harbor, great-but-easy nearby walks, and exploring all of the surprisingly-big peninsula that juts out of the town.

You can get here from Glasgow by switching trains in Ayr.

Fun fact: In Stranraer, if you pay attention, you can find some tropical palm trees! I know, it’s very odd isn’t it? I wrote an entire article about the subject, check it out here: Are There Palm Trees in Scotland?

Highlights of visiting Stranraer:

Another island entry.

Brodick is the main town on the Isle of Arran (I use the word ‘town’ loosely, cos only around 900 people live here)…

… and in some ways, Brodick is similar to Portree, on the Isle of Skye. It’s charming and pretty, but it’s nothing massively special. But it’s an excellent base for adventures around the island—and for the vast majority of people, it’s the logical place to stay.

From here, you can access all of Arran’s fun, including coastal walks (the Arran Coastal Way runs around the entirety of the island), the wander up Goatfell , and plenty of trips and treks to nearby beaches and villages.

To get here, you need to reach the mainland west-coast town of Ardrossan, then hop on a ferry.

Highlights of visiting Brodick:

I know, I know. Glencoe isn’t strictly a coastal town. Sorry for being a big liar.

But it lies on the shores of a loch, and that loch leads directly into the sea. So it’s sort of coastal, isn’t it? Isn’t it?

Better than nearby Fort William, Glencoe is one of Scotland’s best bases for hiking.

The village itself is nothing special (and is hardly even a village—it’s absolutely tiny). But if you want to get some of the best hikes in Scotland without heading to a more remote village, this is where you want to be.

Visiting Glencoe on a tour is easy and convenient. Options include this Glencoe (and Oban and more!) tour from Glasgow, and this sort-of-similar day trip from Edinburgh.

Highlights of visiting Glencoe:

Another Scottish west-coast option, another North Coast 500 option.

I love this place. Absolutely tiny, there’s not much to do here except eat a bit of food, splash around on the beaches, and gawp at all the lovely lovely views.

But when a place looks this good, that’s all you really need. Pitch up in Sands Caravan and Camping (one of my favorite Scottish campsites), and just spend a few days exploring all the outdoors here.

It’s (surprisingly) possible to reach Gairloch via the direct 700 bus from Inverness.

When you’re in Gairloch, make sure you wander to Hillbillies Coffee , a quirky cafe offering books, cakes, and plenty of charm and smiles. They make their coffee with beans from a company owned by one of Bob Marley’s sons.

Highlights of visiting Gairloch:

If you want to go remote without heading too far north, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

Sitting close to Stranraer, Portpatrick is plonked on a weird little peninsula jutting out of the southwestern part of Scotland.

Adventures here include fishing, clifftop wandering, and munching on seafood in and around the harbor. From this harbor (and all of Portpatrick’s seafront), you can even nab some views of not-too-distant Northern Ireland.

If you’re hunting for a hefty adventure, Portpatrick is at the westerly edge of the Southern Upland Way , a massive 214-mile (344 km) coast-to-coast wander along some of the most underrated parts of remote Scotland.

To reach Portpatrick, you can catch the direct 367 bus from Stranraer.

Highlights of visiting Portpatrick:

Close to Aberdeen, Peterhead is home to a surprising amount of fun.

Highlights include the busy harbor, the almost-as-busy marina, the clear-watered shores of Scotstown Beach, and the great fish and chips of The Dolphin Cafe . Make sure you also check out the daily fish market, just north of the harbor (Peterhead is one of the busiest fish ports in Scotland).

… and south of the town, you’ll find Slains Castle , apparently one of the inspirations for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

To get here from Aberdeen, take a direct 1-hour bus. The X60 and the X63 are your best options.

If you like unique (or grisly) fun, get yourself on a Peterhead Prison Museum tour . Known as “Scotland’s Alcatraz,” this place has a pretty horrendous history.

Highlights of visiting Peterhead:

Another tiny place, another of my favorites.

Soz for being a big stinking liar, but this isn’t exactly a Scottish seaside town. Like Glencoe, it sits on a loch rather than on the sea.

But, again, this loch stretches into the sea… so if you use your imagination a bit, Lochcarron is definitely a Scottish seaside town. There’s not much to do in the settlement itself (except sit in some outrageously-charming cafes on the shores of the loch)…

… but it’s an incredible base for cycling, hiking, visiting other small towns, and doing some open-mouthed gaping at all the lovely scenery.

If you want to see this area of Scotland, but don’t have much time, get yourself on this convenient but fun-crammed adventure tour from Inverness . You’ll see loads of lochs, a bunch of wildlife, and the iconic Bealach na Ba pass.

Highlights of visiting Lochcarron:

To get as remote and rural as you possibly can, this is the Scottish seaside town for you.

The main settlement on the Shetland Islands, it sits a long ol’ way from the rest of Scotland—the peninsula (made up of around 100 islands, only 16 of them inhabited) sits around 100 miles (160km) north of the mainland.

It’s the best base for exploring the southern parts of the Shetland Islands—you get endless beaches, wanders, villages and more.

In-Lerwick highlights include the Shetland Museum and Archives , some little coastal walks, Shetland Seabird Tours , and a load of cute and cozy cafes.

To get here, you’ll have to tackle an overnight ferry. These ferries depart from both Kirkwall (on the Orkney Islands) and Aberdeen. The 12-hour direct-from-Aberdeen option is most popular.

Highlights of visiting Lerwick:

There they are—the 20 best seaside towns in Scotland.

You probably don’t have time to visit them all—so if you can only choose three, I recommend St Andrews (the best all-rounder), Ullapool (one of my personal favorites, but it’s pretty far north), and Eyemouth (if you’re hunting for family-friendly fun in the south of the nation).

For more highlights of the nation, check out our guides to the best cliffs in Scotland , the best castles in Scotland , the prettiest villages in Scotland , and the best road trips in Scotland .

Thanks for reading, and thanks for choosing Travelness. See ya!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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Exact time to see solar eclipse tonight and best places in Scotland to spot it

The celestial spectacle will be partially visible from the UK this evening - here's everything to know if you want to catch a glimpse.

• 09:44, 8 APR 2024
• Updated 13:31, 8 APR 2024

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This evening, a solar eclipse is due to take place in what will surely be a spectacular sight to see - and parts of it will be visible from right here in Scotland.

Many areas in North America will be treated to a total solar eclipse on April 8, as the moon moves in between the earth and the sun and blocks its rays from reaching the earth.

Total solar eclipses don't happen very often and the next one isn't due to hit the UK until September 2090. However, it will be partially visible from UK skies tonight, and one Scottish city is likely to have the best view.

Here's everything you need to know if you want to catch a glimpse of the celestial marvel tonight.

When to spot the UK's partial solar eclipse

Keen stargazers will want to cast their eyes to the sky tonight at around 7.52pm this evening, according to Time and Date , as this is when the partial solar eclipse will start to be visible in Scotland.

The sun will still be up at this time, and although the full eclipse won't be seen here, you may be able to see around 20 percent of it right before the sun sets - especially if you live in the west of Scotland.

The partial eclipse will come to an end at around 8.51pm, so you've got around an hour to catch a glimpse. However, it's best to take a look right when it begins, so that the sun is in better view in the sky.

Best places to spot solar eclipse

Because the partial eclipse will be mainly visible from western parts of the UK, Glasgow is one of the best cities to catch a glimpse, with its peak happening at around 8.06pm.

And since it's travelling from east to west, Edinburgh and Aberdeen dwellers may also be able to spot it, peaking at 8pm and 8.02pm respectively.

The western isles will also be treated to a display, and like many other lunar events, getting up on to high ground is essential for a good view. Clear skies are also helpful - but unfortunately, a great deal of cloud cover is forecast tonight, so you could struggle to spot it.

You should never look directly at the sun without the proper eye protection, which includes sunglasses. Using a telescope or binoculars is recommended, but you must have a solar filter in place to avoid damaging your eyes.

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What is a solar eclipse?

An eclipse of the sun happens when the moon moves directly between the sun and the earth, with our planet aligned in the moon's shadow.

But because the moon is a lot smaller than the earth, its shadow only covers a small portion of the earth's surface. Therefore, any solar eclipse will only be visible from certain regions.

In this case, it's the US, Canada and Mexico. After travelling through Mexico first, it will then spread through the US starting in Texas and ending up in Maine before hitting Canada with the final sighting expected in Newfoundland.

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Underrated UK Towns And Cities You Simply Have To Visit

Posted: 11 October 2023 | Last updated: 13 October 2023

Escape the crowds

Hastings, England

Although Hastings is mostly associated with the Battle of Hastings (which actually took place in Sussex), the picturesque fishing port has many other beautiful sights and fun activities to offer. The city’s old quarter will impress visitors with the medieval remnants sprinkled through its alleyways, while a walk down the high street yields antique shops, cute cafés and seafood restaurants. Head east to ride the UK’s steepest funicular railway up to Hastings Country Park and enjoy an amazing panorama. Other highlights include the town’s pier, Hastings Castle, St Clements Caves and Battle Abbey.

Braemar, Scotland

Surrounded by spectacular woodlands and the Grampian Mountains, beautiful Braemar is a paradise for golfers, climbers and hikers. As the highest and most mountainous area in the UK, Braemar offers more than 65 miles (105km) of walks and cycle routes, while for a historic day out visit the 17th-century Braemar Castle. Make sure to stay in the Scottish village on the first Saturday in September to experience the annual Highland Games, where you might spot some of royal family in attendance. 

Charlestown, England

Situated just a mile (1.6km) outside Cornwall’s St Austell, Charlestown takes its visitors back to the Georgian era with its well-preserved historic port and many a stunning property, from quaint fishermen's cottages to sophisticated Georgian houses. The beautiful harbour once played a key part in exporting copper and importing coal but today it's a popular filming location, and can be seen in Poldark , Doctor Who , 2010’s Alice in Wonderland and many more.

Bangor, Wales

A lively university city, Bangor has a long history well worth exploring. Visit Bangor Cathedral, which can be traced back to the sixth century, and the Bishop’s Palace that has been transformed into a museum. Here you can discover local artefacts showcasing Welsh culture and history. Other must-sees include the Bangor Garth Pier, the second longest in the country and voted Pier of the Year 2022 by the National Piers Society, and the high street – the longest in Wales.

Glenarm, Northern Ireland

This quaint town nestled at the foot of Glenarm Glen is truly unique but rarely visited. Georgian streets and beautifully preserved architecture give way to stunning landscapes: take a hike through the neighbouring forest, head down to Glenarm Marina or discover the 16th-century Glenarm Castle with its walled garden. Visit in May to experience the town in full bloom during its annual Tulip Festival, while a trip in July will keep you entertained with Northern Ireland’s biggest family festival of music and food.

Pitlochry, Scotland

Experience incredible Highland Perthshire by visiting one of the region’s most charming towns, Pitlochry, and admire the surrounding views while diving into one of the many outdoor activities the area has to offer. Not only is the region ideal for golfing, fishing and hiking, but also for exciting pastimes like mountain biking and bungee jumping. Don’t forget to pay a visit to Blair Castle and Gardens to learn about the history of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. For a taste of local whisky, book a tasting at Blair Athol Distillery.

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Rostrevor, Northern Ireland

Step into a place full of history, myth and the great outdoors in one of Northern Ireland’s prettiest towns. With the foot of Slieve Martin on one side and the coast of Carlingford Lough on the other, the picturesque town is home to the enchanting Fairy Glen, with a circular walk that takes you through scenic woodland, riverside and parkland. Throughout Rostrevor you can discover an abundance of historical sites, such as Cloughmore, the Mourne Wall and Bagenal’s Castle.

Durham, England

Another old university city, Durham is a small yet captivating place that has lots for visitors to discover. Stroll along the cobbled streets towards the impressive Durham Cathedral as well as the city castle. Durham is also filled with cafés, boutiques, museums and artisan workshops, while the river provides the perfect location for a relaxing walk. In the evening, head to the Gala Theatre for incredible entertainment. In the Vale of Durham you can also find England’s largest open air museum – the Living Museum of the North.

Oban, Scotland

Meaning ‘little bay’ in Scots Gaelic, Oban is an adorable village situated on Scotland’s west coast, surrounded by beautiful countryside and impressive cliffs. Small galleries and independent shops are dotted throughout the seaside town, while on the waterfront you can discover the ruins of Dunollie Castle or take a short boat ride to Kerrera, the closest island to Oban. 

Discover the most amazing castles in Scotland you can actually visit

Armagh, Northern Ireland

This Northern Irish town has a remarkable history stretching all the way back to St Patrick in the fifth century. Armagh is characterised by its church spires, cobbled streets and historic buildings, making it one of Northern Ireland's greatest gems. Dive into the history by visiting the 18th-century Armagh Robinson Library, Roman Catholic Cathedral, medieval crypt beneath it and St Patrick’s Church.

Cenarth, Wales

In this riverside village, visitors can marvel at historic Welsh architecture and the untouched nature surrounding it. The town is famous for Cenarth Falls, a series of beautiful waterfalls and rock pools that look like they've jumped from the pages of a fairy tale. if you're lucky, you might even see salmon leap out of the water. Other highlights include an 18th-century bridge, a stunning riverside walk, the National Coracle Centre and a 13th-century flour mill, which overlooks the waterfalls.

Tavistock, England

This Devon gem has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006 and is located on the western border of the breathtaking Dartmoor National Park. Full of historic sites, Tavistock serves up a range of fascinating buildings to marvel at, such as Tavistock Abbey, as well as an abundance of local shops on its high street, and a pannier market selling everything from cakes to clothing. To experience the surrounding nature take a stroll down River Tavy or hike up Brent Tor, which overlooks the whole town.

Holywood, Northern Ireland

Established in the seventh century as a monastery by St Laiseran, Holywood didn’t become a proper village until it was rebuilt in the early 17th century as a market town. The Northern Irish village grew fast when the railway arrived in 1848, and it became fashionable with wealthier Belfast residents looking for a seaside break. You can still see some of the impressive mansions that were built here during this era. Spend your trip exploring the parish church, priory and Transport Museum.

Falkirk, Scotland

Almost smack bang in the middle between Edinburgh and Glasgow, Falkirk is probably best known for one particular attraction. The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s first and only rotating boat lift carrying boats between the Union and Forth and Clyde canals, and visitors can catch a ride on it. In the city centre you can also find many historic treasures such as the Antonine Wall, which marked the northern border of the Roman Empire, the impressive Callendar House and Blackness Castle. Nature lovers should visit The Helix, home of the famous Kelpies statue.

Canterbury, England

Enter this medieval walled city and discover the famous Canterbury Cathedral – a popular pilgrimage site to this day – as well as other impressive religious structures such as St Augustine's Abbey and St Martin's Church. To ensure you make the most of this historic city, join a guided walking tour which will take you to key attractions, independent shops and cobbled alleyways.

Ranked: England’s most beautiful places

Plockton, Scotland

Hidden in a sheltered bay on Loch Carron, Plockton is one of western Scotland’s most attractive fishing towns and hosts regular regattas. Thanks to its breathtaking lake scenery and mountain vistas, this picturesque village has been the setting for several films and TV series, such as the BBC’s Hamish Macbeth  and  The Wicker Man . With a community that thrives on farming and fishing, don't leave Plockton without grabbing a bite at one of the pubs along the shore.

Royal Hillsborough, Northern Ireland

Receiving royal status in 2021, Royal Hillsborough is a cosy village and civil parish nestled in County Down, only 12 miles (19km) from Belfast. The historic town is mostly known for its Georgian architecture, specifically Hillsborough Castle. The mansion was built in 1770 and functions as the royal family’s official residence when staying in Northern Ireland. Another must-see is the memorial to the 3rd Marquess of Downshire, which resembles Nelson's Column in London's Trafalgar Square. For a nice stroll through the surrounding nature, explore Hillsborough Forest Park and lake too.

Aberporth, Wales

This popular fishing village lies on the west coast of Wales and boasts two sandy beaches for water sports, offering fun outdoor activities for everyone. Walk along the Ceredigion coast to enjoy an incredible panorama of the seaside town and its surroundings. If you get lucky you might even spot a dolphin or orca swimming offshore.

Love this? Then discover wacky and wonderful places to stay in Wales

Chester, England

With roots that can be traced back to the Roman Empire, Chester features a host of ancient and medieval structures dotted around the modern city. Between boutiques and high-street stores you’ll find timbered buildings and cobbled Roman roads. Immerse yourself in Chester’s history by taking a walk around the city walls, old towers, gates and the UK’s largest amphitheatre.

Stirling, Scotland

Rich in history, Stirling has a lot to offer its visitors, from a spectacular backdrop of the Trossachs National Park to Stirling Castle. Combine a shopping spree with sightseeing by visiting the Old Town and the Victorian Stirling Arcade. Other sights include the National Wallace Monument, Loch Lomond and the Church of the Holy Rude, while come evening you can retreat to a cosy pub for a traditional meal.

Dundrum, Northern Ireland

Located just 35 miles (56km) south of Belfast, the coastal town of Dundrum is probably best known for its impressive castle, which has many paths leading up to it from the town centre and incredible seaside views along the way. For more scenic walks, explore the Murlough Nature Reserve and Mourne Mountains. Game of Thrones fans might recognise some spots in the region too – the popular television series shot several scenes here.

Shrewsbury, England

Known by some as the birthplace of Charles Darwin, Shrewsbury is one of the country’s most charming medieval towns. Situated near the Welsh border, the ancient market town has over 600 listed buildings, such as Shrewsbury Castle and Shrewsbury Abbey. Take a stroll through Quarry Park or hop on a boat trip on the River Severn. To see Shrewsbury in full bloom, visit in mid-August during the town’s annual Flower Show.

Ullapool, Scotland

Discover this unspoiled town in the Northern Highlands and experience Scotland’s wild nature. A fishing village at heart, Ullapool is located on the shores of Loch Broom and is an outdoor activities paradise for adventurous visitors. Go hiking, climbing or take a ferry ride to the Outer Hebrides. For golfing fans, the picturesque village offers a golf course with the most amazing backdrop too.

Kesh, Northern Ireland

A perfect destination for anyone who loves to be out on the water, Kesh is a fishing village on the banks of the Kesh River in Fermanagh. The waterside town invites visitors to hire a boat and discover the lough, river and surrounding area. If you prefer being on land, Kesh also has a lovely high street, as well as Muckross Quay, where you can watch fishermen at work while the sun sets over the tranquil water.

These are the UK’s prettiest small towns and villages

Llangrannog, Wales

Hidden in a narrow valley along the coast of Ceredigion, Llangrannog is a stunning coastal town that offers sea views, a riverside and even a small waterfall. Above the waterfall you'll find the older part of the village including the church, while the beachside boasts newer buildings and the commercial port. Popular for its sandy beach, Llangrannog makes for an ideal seaside getaway. The beach features a distinctive large rock, Carreg Bica, which, according to legend, was once a giant’s tooth.

Salford, England

Neighbouring the more widely visited Manchester, Salford is a lively city with a fascinating history and beautiful scenery. Learn about Salford's past by visiting Ordsall Hall or walking one of its heritage trails, which lead past a range of fascinating sights. At the Lowry visitors can immerse themselves in local art and theatre while the Quays has a varied selection of shops and restaurants to keep you entertained.

Roslin, Scotland

If this town’s name sounds familiar, you might have read or watched the popular Da Vinci Code – Roslin’s Rosslyn Chapel plays a key role in the story. The late-Gothic chapel is often associated with theories surrounding the Knights Templar or the Freemasons. But there is more to discover in the Scottish village than its history. Located only seven miles (11km) south of Edinburgh, Roslin was also home to the world’s first cloned sheep, Dolly, which was created in 1997 at the Roslin Institute.

Enniskillen, Northern Ireland

Nestled on an island in charming County Fermanagh, Enniskillen benefits from a charming waterside location. Enniskillen Castle, built in the 15th century, features two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum, which showcases traditional culture and crafts, and the Inniskillings Museum, where you can discover the area’s vast military past. To visit another impressive site, hop on a bike and cycle three miles (5km) to Castle Coole while enjoying beautiful scenery along the way. For shopping head to the Buttermarket, where you can find several shops, cafés and galleries.

Merthyr Tydfil, Wales

Conveniently placed between Brecon Beacons National Park and Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil was once the iron capital of the world, and today is one of Wales' most charming old villages. Among the must-sees is Cyfarthfa Park and Castle, which covers 160 acres and overlooks the town. In the town centre you can spend your days visiting the Cyfarthfa Museum, several churches and even the ruins of a Norman castle.

Now read about the UK's prettiest seaside towns you need to see to believe

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Balmoral Castle Will Open to the Public for the First Time

King Charles has granted permission for private tours to take place throughout the royal residence.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Per Balmoral Castle's website , "For the first time since the castle was completed in 1855, we have been granted permission to take you on a private tour with our experienced guides. They will take you on a historical journey through several of the beautiful rooms within Balmoral Castle."

In 1852, Prince Albert purchased Balmoral as a gift for his wife, Queen Victoria. The original building was deemed too small, and the royals built a new castle (the one that exists today), and tore down the original.

On the tour, Balmoral Castle's official website notes, "You will learn about the origins of the Castle and how it has been loved by generations of the Royal family. Travel through time from the purchase of the Balmoral by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, through to present day, where you can see how rooms within the Castle are used today by their Majesty’s The King and Queen and other members of the Royal Family. You will see why Balmoral is such a special place - the much loved and celebrated Highland home of the Royal Family."

On the tour, visitors will also get access to the grounds, gardens, and exhibitions, and see King Charles's watercolors that show scenes at Balmoral, Highgrove , and Sandringham .

Balmoral was reportedly Queen Elizabeth's favorite residence, and it was where she passed away on September 8, 2022. "I think Granny is the most happy there. I think she really, really loves the Highlands," Princess Eugenie said of her grandmother in the documentary Our Queen At Ninety .

In Spare , Prince Harry's memoir, he wrote about Balmoral . "Balmoral. Closing my eyes, I can see the main entrance, the paneled front windows, the wide portico and three gray-black speckled granite steps leading up to the massive front door of whisky-colored oak, often propped open by a heavy curling stone and often manned by one red-coated footman...." He also recalls the many rooms inside, "each with a specific purpose, like sitting or reading, TV or tea, and one special room for the pages, many of whom I loved like dotty uncles."

Tickets are £100, or £150 if you want to also get afternoon tea, and must be purchased in advance. This year, the tours will be available from July 1 until August 4, 2024, and are restricted to 10 people per tour. Tickets can be purchased on balmoralcastle.com .

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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7 Adorable Small Towns To Visit In Scotland

• Destinations
• United Kingdom

Most people who visit Scotland will know at least something about the major cities, Edinburgh being the favorite, and some of the less populated areas of beauty, like Loch Ness and the islands of Shetland and Skye, but what you might not realize is that Scotland is full of small pretty coastal villages and the most adorable small towns. Some of these towns are very traditional and haven’t changed much in decades, some in over 100 years, and some are what is known as “new towns,” meaning they’ve been purposely built to accommodate the overflow of residents from the cities. Many visitors will miss these small towns because they don’t know they are there and don’t realize what gems they are. To help you find them on your next visit to Scotland, here are seven adorable small towns to visit in Scotland.

1. Arbroath 

The historic town of Arbroath by the sea is where the declaration of Arbroath was born. This declaration was a letter written by Scottish barons to the pope, declaring their right to use arms to defend themselves and to assert their independence from the English. This letter began its journey right here at Arbroath Abbey, which stands in the town center. The other thing Arbroath is most famous for is the Arbroath smokie. As you wander the historic streets by small fishing cottages, you’ll catch a whiff of this smoked fish and you might see the puffs of smoke billowing from the smokehouses in this authentic Scottish town. The Arbroath smokie is a local delicacy and you can’t visit without trying it.

Where To Eat

Arbroath may be a very traditional Scottish town, but if you want something different Andreou’s Bistro serves up authentic Greek and Mediterranean dishes in a very Greek environment. You already have the sea on your doorstep here, so why not enjoy some Greek meze (appetizer) and ouzo to go with it.

2. Ballantrae

The pretty town of Ballantrae sits snugly in Ballantrae Bay, South Ayrshire. The rugged coastline here makes it a great place for fishing and for some select watersports. There are also plenty of rivers and lochs in the area so a great place to unwind if you like the water. There is a core community here, but you’ll also notice clusters of B&Bs and seafront hotels, leaving you in doubt that this isn’t a tourist town. There are some good coastal walks and Ardstinchar Castle dominates the land wherever you are. But it is the views over the bay, the wild landscape, and the ocean, that most people come here for.

Where To Stay

Spend the night in an old Scottish castle at Glenapp, and experience what it’s like to live like a lord. Glenapp Castle was built as part of a private estate in 1870 and is now a 21 bedroom, five-star hotel. As well as being spectacular in its design, the castle has a rolling program of events and workshops including perfume making, foraging, archery, and beekeeping.

3. Stornoway

Stornoway is the main town on the Outer Hebridean island of Lewis. Once a Viking settlement, Stornoway is now a busy port town that has managed to hang onto its fishing roots. There is a lot of history here and to make sure you don’t miss anything, you can book a tour from Where The Wild Is , which includes an itinerary and accommodation in the Hebridean Huts, two eco- glamping huts that look out to sea. Although an itinerary is set for you, you will take the trip independently. The first thing you’ll do is pick up your rental car which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Don’t miss the Callanish standing stones and be sure to try dinner at the Blue Lobster.

If you’re already in Scotland you can catch a ferry boat over to Lewis, or if you’re in one of the main cities you can fly from Glasgow, Inverness, or Edinburgh airports. If you’re not already in Scotland, this is a long way and quite remote, so make sure you plan your journey well. It is also possible to fly from London to Lewis or if you love the traveling part of your trip, take the Caledonian Sleeper Train from London to Scotland and travel onto Lewis from there.

4. Blantyre

Eight miles south of Glasgow is the culturally important town of Blantyre . Best known for being the birthplace of the explorer David Livingstone, the town has a semi-industrial past, in the shape of coal mines and cotton mills. Today, this industrial history is woven into the simple beauty of the town, and in the old weavers’ cottages and the millworkers tenement building that are still standing. Blantyre is proud of its history, which there is evidence of wherever you look. Boswell Castle is just half a mile from the town and the ruins of Blantyre Priory face it as if the two are eternally gazing at each other.

David Livingstone’s Birthplace , the museum dedicated to this life and achievements, has recently reopened after a £9 million pound regeneration program. Situated in an old mill, the displays include artefacts from Livingstone’s travels, especially his journey through Africa. The museum requires a ticket, but the lovely grounds are free to enter. 

5. Inveraray

Sitting on the banks of Loch Fyne, Inveraray was established as a town in 1745 and hasn’t altered a whole lot since then. The loch provides shores at its edges that appear like small coves and shelving beaches, giving the impression of being by the sea. As with most Scottish towns, there is a castle here, but this one is still occupied by the Duke of Argyll. Despite being the duke’s home, the castle, or most of it, is open to the public. This is a true fairytale castle with Rapunzel spires and military turrets. The original jail and courthouse in the town is now a museum, recounting the old justice system and grisly punishments. Inveraray is a beautiful little town with tons of history and idyllic scenery.

There are lots of scenic walks in this area through wild and rugged landscapes, but if you’re feeling up to it, the best of them goes from the castle, up a rough crag to a tower called Dun Na Cuaiche. This is a tough walk up an 800-foot slope, so you have to be fairly fit to undertake it, but the views from the top of the tower are incredible. This hike is most definitely not for anyone with any mobility issues, though there are lots of other lovely gentler walks here.

6. Newton Stewart

A traditional market town with an old stone bridge over the River Cree, Newton Stewart was named after the town’s founder, William Stewart. Close to the Galloway forest park, the town serves as a base for hill walkers and those who come here to enjoy the woodland. If you take a pair of binoculars out into the forest you can spot red and foe deer, and the wild hill goats that scramble up on the rocky slopes. Visitors also come to the town for the plentiful salmon fishing in the river, and for the biking trails that whizz you through some of the most stunning scenery in the country.

Don’t miss a visit to the town’s cinema. This art deco cinema takes you back to how cinemas used to be. The building itself is a stunning example of a 1930s theater, and it remains pretty much as it always has been. The interior is well maintained, with comfortable seats and a good view of the screen wherever you sit. One of the highlights is the Galloway ice cream tubs you can buy at the kiosk.

7. Campbeltown

This pretty little town, surrounded by dramatic hills, was once known as the “whisky capital of the world.” A bold claim, but with 34 distilleries in this one small town, it was a claim worth making. Today only three of those distilleries survive, and the town is much quieter. Those three remaining distilleries are a draw for visitors and if you like whisky this is a great place to stay. Horse riding is also popular here, with many trails around the surrounding area of the town. The town is situated on the peninsula of Kintyre and the land at Campbeltown folds around it forming an inlet of ocean. This makes the harbor here quiet and calm and a beautiful place for a stroll.

Ardshiel Restaurant serves Scottish and British food, including some traditional Scottish fare you might never have heard of before. There’s a lovely garden restaurant, and the cocktails are really good, but perhaps the most impressive thing here is the over 2,000 bottles of whisky packed in behind the bar. If you like whisky, you’ll be spoiled by the choices.

Small charming and historic small towns abound in Scotland and are a real treasure for visitors:

• 6 Charming Small Towns To Visit In The Scottish Highlands
• 7 Gorgeous Small Towns To Visit In The Scottish Lowlands
• 10 Things To Do In John Muir’s Scottish Hometown

Travel writer, author, and playwright, Samantha loves historic buildings, quirky hotels, woodland walks and literary trails, specializing in food and drink, luxury travel, retreats, spas, and anything arts based. Samantha is based in Yorkshire, the UK, where she lives with her artist partner. Learn more on her website .

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Solar eclipse 2024: Where in the UK to see celestial spectacle

Partial solar eclipse to cross over the republic of ireland, northern ireland, scotland, wales and the west of england, article bookmarked.

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A solar eclipse that passes directly over North America on Monday will be partially visible from parts of the UK, according to forecasters.

The Sun will be completely hidden behind the Moon across large parts of the US, making it appear as though day has briefly turned into night.

:: Follow the latest on the eclipse on our live blog here.

Total darkness will last for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds, while those not directly under the path of totality will see skies darken as the Sun is partially hidden.

In the UK, the partial solar eclipse crosses over the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the west of England.

The celestial event will take place at sunset in the UK, just before the Sun disappears below the horizon at around 8pm, however it looks likely to be obscured by clouds for many.

• Solar eclipse 2024: Everything you need to know ahead of the solar spectacle
• Small town businesses embrace total solar eclipse crowd, come rain or shine on Monday
• Solar eclipse 2024: A traveller’s guide to the best places to be when the light goes out

The best place to view the spectacle in the British Isles would be the west coast of Ireland, though forecasts from Met Éireann for Monday evening currently predict heavy cloud and rain throughout most of the country.

There are similar forecasts in place for Glasgow and Edinburgh, which will see a 10-11 per cent obscuration, though Wales northern Scotland and South West England have more favourable weather forecasts.

Motoring experts have warned UK drivers about the risk of being distracted by the spectacle.

“It should go without saying that staring directly at the Sun is to be avoided at all costs, and the risk of being temporarily blinded while on the road is all too obvious,” said Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing.

“Be prepared for sudden changes in light and have your headlights switched on. It’s also wise to watch out for other distracted drivers - and pedestrians - who might be focussed on the skies and not the traffic around them.”

The last solar eclipse to pass over the US in 2017 resulted in an uptick in fatal road accidents, according to a recent research letter published in the scientific journal JAMA Internal Medicine.

A 31 per cent increase in fatal crashes was recorded on 21 August 2017, the authors wrote, attributing part of this surge to heavy traffic from people travelling to and from locations to view the eclipse.

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Five of the best real ale pubs to visit in Scotland

From the blue blazer in edinburgh to the lade inn at callander — peter irvine shares his favourite places to enjoy some great brews.

Opposite Doubletree Hilton. No frills, no pretensions, just wooden fixtures and fittings and all sorts in this fine howff that carries a huge range of real ales. Regularly a Pub of the Year. Extraordinary rum and gin list, and then the malts. Much more soul than its competitors nearby. Details 2 Spittal Street, facebook.com/blueblazeredin

Opposite Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in a prominent Argyle Street corner site. The Glasgow BrewDog of the fast proliferating pack unleashed on a sober public in 2007 from Fraserburgh, the flag bearers of the craft beer revolution. And it moves on (from the bad press). All its cute and trashily named beers present, including the not-so-strong ones. Food, games, music. Seven days till 1am (Monday and Tuesday, midnight). Details 1397

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12 Scottish Harbours & Seaside Towns You Must Visit

What a joy it is to be by the sea in Scotland. Walking along a coastal path in the fresh air, stopping for lunch at a seaside restaurant, spending the night in a cute coastal cottage or cosy hotel – doesn’t that sound good? Here we pick a selection of Scottish harbours and towns to inspire your next holiday, with some foodie suggestions too.  

Tobermory Mull

A sea plane glides over the multicoloured houses along the pier at Tobermory, with the hills of North Mull over the water in the distance

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins, all rights reserved.

Tobermory, the capital of Mull, is one of the prettiest ports in Scotland, thanks to its colourful houses and a sheltered bay where rumour has it a Spanish Armada ship sank in 1588 carrying gold bullion. In the mood for seafood? Café Fish, The Mishnish Hotel and the Fisherman’s Pier Fish & Chip Van all cater for hungry travellers. 

St Andrews Fife

West Sands, St Andrews

St Andrews is of course famous as the Home of Golf, but many people also visit this historic town to go walking by the sea. You might recognise the West Sands beach from the movie Chariots of Fire, one of cinema’s most iconic opening sequences. It is a great place to go exploring, and there are also a choice of adventure sports available here from surfing to land-yachting. Try fish and chips at Tailend Restaurant, grilled cheese at The Cheesy Toast Shack or ice cream at Janetta’s.

North Berwick East Lothian

North Berwick Beach with the law in the background.

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam. All rights reserved.

The East Lothian town of North Berwick is full of character and the busy harbour is one of the focal points. Once home to an outdoor swimming pool, the harbour area is now the location of the Scottish Seabird Centre, where families can stop and learn about the Scottish coast before a walk along the beach. In the summer months visitors will love eating fresh seafood at The Lobster Shack or Signals Bistro. 

St Abbs Scottish Borders

Eb Carr's Cafe in St Abbs

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam, all rights reserved

If you’re a fan of the Marvel’s Avengers films, you might recognise this pretty harbour town. St Abbs doubled up as ‘New Asgard’ in the popular film franchise. Photographers will love the cliffs and old fisherman’s cottages in St Abbs and the nearby St Abb’s Head Nature Reserve is a great place to go walking. Local restaurants where you can try the catch of the day include Ebb Carr’s and The Old School Cafe. 

The harbour at Crail, in the East Neuk of Fife.

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

The East Neuk town of Crail is a pretty patchwork of cobbled streets and fishing cottages, centred around an attractive harbour. In the summertime, it is a great place to walk around and explore, stopping to watch the fishing boats and enjoy an ice cream. Like other towns along the Fife coast, it is easy to access the Fife Coastal Path from Crail which stretches for over 100 miles around the area. Crail Fish Bar & Café and Reilly Shellfish Hut are brilliant places to stop for a bite to eat. 

Pennan Aberdeenshire

The coastal village of Pennan, Aberdeenshire

© VisitScotland / Discover Fraserburgh / Damian Shields

Pennan is a tiny fishing hamlet consisting of little more than a single row of whitewashed stone cottages tucked between a cliff and the sea. The village leapt into the limelight when the British movie Local Hero was filmed here in 1982. The town has an attractive harbour which is a great place to spot wildlife – including dolphins! Stop for a bite to eat at the Pennan Inn or Coastal Cuppie. 

Portree Skye

Portree, Isle of Skye

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Skye is a place of dramatic landscapes and the natural harbour at Portree is no exception. Fringed by high ground and cliffs, the harbour is used by fishing boats as well as pleasure craft. The town itself is Skye’s cultural hub and has many accommodation options as well as foodie highlights. These include Sea Breezes, The Lower Deck Seafood Restaurant, Cuchullin Restaurant and The Harbour Fish & Chip Shop. 

Troon South Ayrshire

Sunset Over The Isle Of Arran From The Ballast Bank, Troon, Ayrshire

A famous golfing town, Troon will host the 152nd Open Championship in 2024. Golf aside, Troon is a charming west coast seaside town and a great destination for a day out at the beach or a relaxed seaside holiday. Overlooking the Isle of Arran and Ailsa Craig, the bustling harbour is home to Ayrshire's fish market, which supplies freshly-caught fish and seafood to local restaurants like Scott’s Bar & Restaurant and MacCallum’s Oyster Bar. 

Stromness Orkney

Looking across the bay to Stromness harbour. The small houses sit right on the edge of the sea, each with a steep private jetty down to the water

© Daniel J Allen, all rights reserved.

Stromness has been a haven with mariners for centuries, being the last port of call before many a transatlantic voyage. Now it is the arrival point in Orkney for ferries from mainland Scotland. Explore the quaint alleyways and absorb the atmosphere here, before venturing on to Orkney’s famous neolithic sites. Enjoy something to eat at The Ferry Inn or The Hamnavoe Restaurant. 

Portmahomack Easter Ross

Portmahomack Harbour

© Tain and District Development Trust

Portmahomack’s idyllic location on the Easter Ross peninsula makes it popular with leisure crafts and the village is a peaceful place to visit. A broad sandy beach runs west from the historic fishing village and there is a quiet harbour on the north side where boats can be anchored. While here you could walk out along the coast to the Tarbat Ness Lighthouse, the tallest on the Scottish mainland. Try eating at The Oystercatcher or enjoy a light bite at Carnegie Hall café. 

Helensburgh Argyll

Helensburgh is a coastal town in the area of Argyll and Bute, on the Firth of Clyde.

The seaside resort of Helensburgh is a gateway to many outdoor activities including the Argyll Kayak Trail and Wild about Argyll Cycling Trail. You can also access walking trails here including the John Muir Way and the Three Lochs Way. If travelling by car, make sure you explore the Clyde Sea Lochs Trail, taking you into the heart of coastal communities to the south west of Loch Lomond. The town is easy to get to from Glasgow and restaurants like Sugar Boat and Riverhill Café will tickle your tastebuds. 

Durness Sutherland

Campervans overlooking Durness Beach

Durness is the most north westerly village in the British mainland and it boasts spectacular scenery with a rocky coastline, pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Nearby Smoo Cave is a must visit, a dramatic hole in a sheer limestone cliff. With vast open spaces on its doorstep, Durness is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle! Stop for a bite to eat at Sango Sands Oasis Restaurant & Bar. 

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UK weather: Hottest day of the year expected - and warning of 70mph winds as Storm Kathleen moves in

A mixed picture is forecast for Saturday as parts of East Anglia and southeast England could top Portugal and bask in temperatures in the low 20s.

Saturday 6 April 2024 04:31, UK

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The UK is expected to see the hottest day of the year so far today - with towns and cities set to bask in balmy temperatures while others are battered by 70mph winds.

The Met Office said temperatures are likely to reach up to 22C (72F) on Saturday as unseasonably warm air from the continent brings sunny spells to parts of the country.

Ellie Glaisyer, a meteorologist for the forecaster, said that Storm Kathleen "is the reason we are seeing the warmer temperatures, because the location of the storm - situated out towards the west of the UK - is bringing a southerly wind across the UK".

Met Office spokesman Stephen Dixon added that "it's not unusual for these storm systems to bring warmer air with them".

The highest temperature of the year so far was 19.9C (68F), recorded at the end of January at Achfary in northwest Scotland.

Meanwhile a mixed picture is set for today - with the forecaster earlier updating its warnings to say stronger gusts are more likely over the weekend as Kathleen batters the western parts of Britain.

Gusts of 50mph are widely expected and exposed places could see 60mph to 70mph.

Yellow weather warnings have been issued for wind in areas - covering Cornwall, much of Wales, parts of Lancashire and Cumbria, and up into central Scotland and Northern Ireland from 8am to 10pm.

Ms Glaisyer also said that the storm is likely to bring heavy rain overnight, "which will spread its way northwards across the country". By the morning, most places should see "a relatively dry start to Saturday".

Temperatures in the low twenties are also expected in southeast England, but the forecaster added that "the further west you are, where those strongest winds are in that yellow warning area, despite the temperatures being above average it will feel a little colder".

The Met Office's update on yellow wind warnings said: "Stronger gusts are now expected across some parts of the warning area, with likelihood also increased."

It said there was a risk of "injuries and danger to life" from large waves and beach material being thrown on to sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.

It added road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible.

There could also be power cuts and mobile phone coverage may also be affected.

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Mr Dixon added: "The outlook for Sunday for much of the UK is for showery conditions to continue particularly in northern and western areas again.

"It will generally feel a touch drier the further south-east you go through the day on Sunday as Kathleen gradually moves away northwards."

He added that the start of next week would see unsettled weather conditions with "rain continuing for many".

#StormKathleen has been named by @MetEireann and is forecast to bring strong winds to Ireland and much of the UK on Saturday Stay #weatheraware pic.twitter.com/dcDmifdqjL — Met Office (@metoffice) April 4, 2024

Storm Kathleen has been named by Ireland's national forecaster Met Eireann, which has issued its own warnings covering the whole country and urged the public to be "vigilant".

Cork, Kerry, Galway and Mayo are set to be the worst affected.

They are under an amber alert, meaning "very difficult travel conditions" and potential fallen trees, power outages and coastal flooding.

Read more from Sky News: Teenager stabbed to death in afternoon attack Consultants accept pay offer to end dispute

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Storm Kathleen is the 11th named storm in eight months, and this only the second time in a UK storm season that the letter K has been reached in the alphabet.

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