scotland essential guide
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Scotland.Essential guide.
www.visitscotland.com
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Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh
The warmest of welcomes awaits you
in Scotland at historic castles such asStirling, among the grand Highland
scenery of Glen Coe and Torridon, and
right out on the white sandy beaches
of the Outer Hebrides.
In winter, when snow dusts the
mountains, the year begins with
the warming cheer o a traditional
Hogmanay. Celebrations continue in
January in honour o Robert Burns at The
Big Burns Supper in Dumries, the worlds
largest Burns Night event with music,
literature and dance. Its the perect
setting to sample Scotlands national
dish, haggis delicious, rich and spicy.
Scotlands landscapes come alive with
wildlie during spring when its possible
to admire soaring puffins in the skiesand bottlenose dolphins swimming close
to shore. Inland, explore our stunning
National Parks and be amazed by the
glittering lochs, dramatic peaks and
dense orests.
Puffin on the Isle of May Smailholm Tower in the Scottish Borders
On Mull looking over to the island of Ulva
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Dont miss...
Explore Scotlands coastline andislands on a boat trip in spring and
try to spot some ascinating wildlie
Find your avourite dram at the Spirit
o Speyside Whisky Festival in May
Soak up the unique atmosphere o
Edinburghs vibrant summer arts
estivals.
Marvel at the colours o the season
on a walk through Per thshires Big
Tree Country in autumn.
Join in a traditional Scottish
ceilidh (Scottish country dance) in
celebration o St Andrews Day in
November.
Get swept away on a romantic
winter break to a dramatic Highland
castle.
Bring in the New Year in style at one
o Scotlands world-class Hogmanay
celebrations.
The Cairngorms National Park is wild,
mountainous and made or adventure, or
discover Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
National Park, a place o natural beauty
which has inspired many songs and
stories.
Summers long daylight hours lend
themselves to outdoor events such as
our unique Highland games. Its also a
great time to discover vibrant cultures
and the creativity o Scotlands islands.
Visit the Outer Hebrides to see Harris
Tweed, a luxury hand-woven cloth, be
made in the traditional way and hear the
ancient language o Gaelic be spoken or
sung.
The beautiul autumn scenery provides
the perect backdrop to events such as
the traditional music o the Perthshire
Amber - the Dougie MacLean Festival,
and whisky tasting at the Autumn
Speyside Whisky Festival. Prepare to
party as winter returns and the amous
estivities, including Winter Festivals, get
underway again.
Discover more about Scotland atwww.visitscotland.com
Why not head to atraditional Highland
games, held acrossScotland between May andSeptember each year?
Dakota Forth Bridge Hotel, South Queensferry
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Signal rock, Glen Coe
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Inspiring innovations, bold designs and
breathtaking architecture.
Scotland boasts a long list o important
scientiic contributions too, rom
penicillin to the television, and is
considered to be a world leader in many
ields o science and technology. Make
discoveries o your own at Glasgow
Science Centre, Dundee Science Centre
or Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh, or at
science estivals held throughout the
year.
The Forth Rail Bridge, one o the industrial
wonders o the world, was recently
awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.There will be exciting celebrations in
late 2016 with the opening o the nearby
Queenserry Crossing, a new bridge which
links Edinburgh with Fie or the use o
vehicles, walkers and cyclists.
Scotland has produced some o the
keenest and most brilliant minds
around. Over the centuries, Scottish
scientists and engineers have shown real
ingenuity, producing some wonderul,
world-changing inventions. In the Year
o Innovation, Architecture and Design
2016, come and discover our inspiring
cities and landscapes, and experience
the places where creativity andinnovation lourishes.
Delve into the lie and legacy o one o
Scotlands avourite sons, Charles Rennie
Mackintosh. The distinctive art nouveau
designs o this amous architect,
designer and artist are known and
recognised world-over. From Hill House
in Helensburgh to House or an Art Lover
in Glasgows Bellahouston Park, Scotland
boasts many places which are prime
examples o his remarkable style.
See thousands o items which tell the
story o Scotlands achievements indecorative art, design, ashion, science
and technology. New or 2016, the award-
winning National Museum o Scotland in
Edinburgh is opening 10 new galleries ull
o ascinating arteacts.
The Sheila Fleet Jewellery Workshop, Tankerness, Orkney The Scottish Parliament Building, Edinburgh The Falkirk Wheel, Falkirk
Forth Rail Bridge from South Queensferry
year of innovation,
architecture and
design 2016
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Dont miss... Plan a day out to see The Falkirk
Wheel, the worlds only rotating boat
li, and The Kelpies, two 30 m high
horse head sculptures created rom
galvanised steel.
Visit the Charles Rennie Mackintosh
building, The Lighthouse in Glasgow,
now home to Scotlands Centre or
Design and Architecture.
Explore Dundee, the UKs irst
UNESCO City o Design, home tothe critically acclaimed Dundee
Contemporary Arts and the McManus:
Dundees Art Gallery & Museum.
Get unique perspectives and
experience Victorian innovation
at Camera Obscura attractions, in
Edinburgh, Kirriemuir in Angus and
Dumries in Dumries & Galloway
Discover Glasgows shipbuilding
heritage as you climb the Titan Craneand get stunning views o the River
Clyde.
Uncover Scotlands many architectural
highlights and visit internationally
renowned modern buildings including
the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh
and the Riverside Museum in Glasgow.
From March to October 2016, catch some
inspiring and inormative events during
the Festival o Architecture and step
inside intriguing structures and spaces
not normally open to the public during
Doors Open Days in September.
Choose rom a great range o
accommodation during your Scottish
break. From boutique hotels and unusual
castles to lighthouse keepers cottages,
eco-lodges and much more.
The country also produces antastic
and unique ine textiles including Harris
Tweed and cashmere, many o which
have eatured in the collections o major
international ashion houses such as
Chanel and Dior. Uncover the intricacies
o how these stunning abrics are created
by ollowing the Scottish Borders Textile
Trail, visiting a Harris Tweed mill in the
Outer Hebrides or picking up a memento
in gi shops across the country.
Discover more about our inventors and
innovators and ind engaging events and
projects covering science, technology,
ashion, design, architecture and much
more. www.visitscotland.com/IAD2016
Dundee Contemporary Arts centre Hill House, Helensburgh
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Scotlands great
cities - Edinburgh
Edinburgh is pure theatre, with its spires and battlements,
crags and classical columns. From Edinburgh Castle, lookover an exciting, cosmopolitan European capital city, whose
dramatic medieval and elegant Georgian architectures
have made it a World Heritage Site.
Edinburgh Castle is at the heart o
the nations story, symbolised by the
Honours o Scotland Scotlands CrownJewels as well as the amous Stone
o Destiny, the ancient crowning seat
o Scottish monarchs. Edinburghs Old
Town is centred on the upper part o
the Royal Mile, a historic thoroughare
linking the castle with the Palace o
Holyroodhouse. Though castle and
palace head a long list o heritage sites,
museums and art galleries, Edinburgh
is a compact city. Its easy to explore on
oot or via an excellent bus network.
Taste the best of Scottishproduce and dine at one
of the citys four Michelin-starred restaurants.
Explore the revitalised port o Leith with
its historic waterront and great choice o
top restaurants. Or take a walk through
Holyrood Park to discover another world,
the village o Duddingston tucked behind
Arthurs Seat. (One o Scotlands oldest
pubs is here too!) Back in the city, August
sees Edinburghs cultural lie at its mostvibrant. The Edinburgh International
Edinburgh Castle and old town from Calton Hill
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Festival and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe
are at the core o this high-proile annual
arts gathering.
However a year-round programme o
events means there is always a great
estival atmosphere in the city. Inspiration
and creativity have always thrived
in Edinburgh, UNESCOs irst City o
Literature. Its literary heritage stretches
back to beore the days o Sir Walter Scott
and encompasses contemporary writers
such as JK Rowling o Harry Potterame.
Get more inormation on Edinburgh at
www.visitscotland.com/edinburgh
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Why not... Step into the past at the
historic Edinburgh Castle or the
underground streets o The Real
Mary Kings Close.
Explore the grand Palace o
Holyroodhouse, the Queens royal
residence in Scotland.
Unravel the mysteries o the
beautiul Rosslyn Chapel just outside
Edinburgh.
Indulge in some retail therapy at the
designer stores on Multrees Walk or
shop or ine cashmere on the Royal
Mile.
Delve into Scotlands history at the
National Museum o Scotland.
Climb aboard the Royal Yacht
Britanniaor a majestic experience.
Admire contemporary and historic
artworks at one o the many ree art
galleries.
Edinburgh Festival street performer
The Royal Yacht Britannia John Knox House (Scottish Storyteling Centre), Royal Mile
Day trips from EdinburghThere is plenty to see within easy reach
o the city: or example, panoramicviews rom the Pentland Hills that
overlook the city; the neo-classical
elegance o stately homes such as
Hopetoun House; and the wild beauty o
the East Lothian coastline.
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The Forth Rail Bridge from South Queensferry harbour
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Scotlands great
cities - Glasgow
Scotlands biggest city, Glasgow is a
recognised centre for style, designand architecture. It is upfront, stylish,
full of life and vitality a shoppers
paradise as well as one of the
friendliest places you are ever likely tovisit.
unmistakable element o the citys style
is the work o Glasgow-born Charles
Rennie Mackintosh, a designer at the
oreront o Art Nouveau in Scotland.
The 21st century architecture o the
Riverside Museum displays a historic
transport collection: a reminder o how
Glasgow orged links across the world
with its ships and railway locomotives.
Glasgow means dear green place and
boasts over 90 parks and green spaces,
including the beautiul Botanic Gardens
in the citys west end.With Loch Lomond
& The Trossachs National Park just
under an hour away, you can ind the
perect balance between city
Peoples Palace and Winter Gardens, Glasgow Green Ashton Lane, West End Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Bells Bridge, River Clyde
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Oen called Britains inest Victorian city, Glasgows architecture relects its
distinctive personality. The impressive City Chambers is at its very heart, while
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum houses important art collections that
have made a major contribution to Glasgows cultural lie or over a century. An
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Why not... Spend a day at Kelvingrove
Art Gallery and Museum, home to
thousands o ascinating exhibits.
Take a trip down the River Clyde
aboard the PS Waverley, the last
sea-going paddle steamer in the
world.
Wander the streets o the
Merchant City or great shopping
and sophisticated restaurants
and bars. Dont miss the Riverside Museum
and the Tall Ship on the banks o
the Clyde.
Watch talented musicians
perorm at Celtic Connections in
January.
Experience a breath o resh air in
Pollok Country Park and get up
close to the Highland cows!
Take a Mackintosh City WalkingTour run by the Glasgow School
o Art.
and nature when you visit Glasgow. As
a retail centre, Glasgow is matched by
ew other British cities. Shop till you
drop at chic Princes Square, as well as
Sauchiehall Street, Buchanan Street and
the Merchant City district which together
make up Glasgows Style Mile.
In a typical week, more than 120
separate musical events take place here
more than justiying its recognition as
a UNESCO City o Music. This non-stop,
all-year, high-energy music scene takes
place in venues that include traditionalScottish pubs, clubs, world class
auditoriums and dedicated perormance
spaces cleverly converted rom
distinguished city buildings. ran Mr,
with its exciting music programme, is just
one o them.
Glasgow has a wonderul dining scene,
with many ine establishments to try.
Head to Ubiquitous Chip in the West End
and discover a much-loved Glasgow
institution, or take in the beautiul
Mackintosh-designed dcor o the Willow
Tea Rooms while you tuck into aernoon
tea, a light meal which usually consists o
small sandwiches, cakes, scones and tea
its a delicious British tradition!
Get more inormation on Glasgow atwww.visitscotland.com/glasgow
Hutchesons Bar and Brasserie Stained glass rose motif,House for an Art Lover, Bellahouston Park
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A sense of space
Scotlands beautiful countryside offers
wide and varied landscapes to explore,whether by foot, bike, or boat. In
Scotland, everyone is entitled to their
right to roam, meaning that you are
free to explore the land, as long as you
consider other countryside users by
following the Scottish Outdoor Access
Code.
The country has an excellent range
o signposted paths and nature trails
through a variety o landscapes. You
can use Scotlands Countryside Ranger
Service, nature reserve wardens, walking
holiday operators and walking estivals
to join organised walking and wildlie
activities or a whole range o levels. I
you like a challenge, you could even take
on one o the 282 Scottish mountains
classiied as Munros which are all over
914 m in height.
Scotland also has a variety o officiallong distance ootpaths which can be
sampled in short sections over one
day. Most popular is the West Highland
Way between the outskirts o Glasgow
and Fort William. Walk the John Muir
Hams of Roe, Muckle Roe, Shetland Dalbeattie Mountain Biking Centre, Dumfriesshire Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, Aberdeenshire
Taking in the view at Sands of Wright, South Ronaldsay, Orkney
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Island hoppingIts easy to all in love with Scotlands
islands. Plan an island hopping trip
and visit a ew o them - each island
has its own unique character and
special charm.
Whether you choose to explore the
Outer Hebrides, a chain o islands off
the north west mainland o Scotland,
or visit the northern island groups o
Orkney or Shetland, there are many
incredible discoveries to be made.
Encounter sandy beaches, diverse
landscapes, enchanting wildlie,
prehistoric heritage sites and vibrant
island cultures.
Check out our islands atwww.visitscotland.com/islands
Way, a newly extended 134 mile trail
running rom Dunbar on the east coast to
Helensburgh in the west.
You can travel across the country by bike
using the National Cycle Routes, and
will ind plenty o paths and dedicated
mountain biking areas. Tentsmuir Forest
on Fies east coast is an ideal place
or a gentle aernoon ride, with picnic
spots and viewpoints along the way.
The Nevis Range by Fort William has a
great reputation or mountain biking,
and hosts the annual UCI Mountain BikeWorld Cup.
An important part o enjoying the
outdoors is encountering Scotlands
wildlie. On even short walks at places
like Glen Muick on Royal Deeside you can
expect to see red deer, widespread in
the Highlands. Many rare animal species
have been re-introduced to their natural
habitats, such as the sea eagles which
can be spotted rom the island o Mull.
Another re-introduction success is to be
ound on the Red Kite Trail round Loch
Ken in Dumries & Galloway where these
birds are thriving.
To admire Scotlands beautiul coastline
and spot puffins, seals and seabirds you
should take a boat trip. From Oban you
can enjoy an excursion to the amous
Corryvreckan Whirlpool at the north end
o Jura. Look out or whales and dolphins
on the way.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Near Port Ellen on the Isle of Islay
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Dolphin spotting
Caroline Warburton
Wildlie expert
Did you know that Chanonry Point
overlooking the Moray Firth in the
Highlands is one o the
best places in Europe
to observe bottlenose
dolphins? You can stand
on the beach and watch
them jumping out o the
water, right in ront o
you!
Insider tip
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Scotland is The Home of Golf and
boasts an unparalleled golfing history
which dates back over 600 years. With
high profile events including The Open
Championship, attractive courses
available for all abilities, and a range
of discount passes, Scotland offers the
ultimate golfing experience, whetheryou come to play or watch the sport.
With over 550 courses including
championship links courses like St
Andrews, Turnberry, and Muirield,
as well as local 9-hole greens, classic
parklands and challenging heathland,
Scotland offers diverse play or all
standards o goler.
Enjoy stunning views at coastal links
such as Machrihanish and watch out or
natural obstacles including the grazing
sheep that act as green keepers! The
Carrick, on the banks o Loch Lomond,
has excellent waterside views whilst onthe Banchory course watch out or the
River Dee which comes into play as a
water hazard.
The Trump Turnberry Resort, Ayrshire 1st hole, The PGA Centenary Golf Course at Gleneagles The Swilcan Bridge on the 18th Fairway, Old Course, St Andrews
Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club, Kintyre, Argyll
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Scotland - The home
of golf
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Dont miss...The newly renovated British Museum
o Gol in St Andrews is a must-see or
anyone visiting the spiritual home o
the game. Uncover the sports origins
and enjoy splendid views o the 1st
tee o the Old Course and West Sands
beach.
For more inormation on over 550courses across Scotland, special
gol passes and great deals, checkout www.visitscotland.com/golf
There are goling gems to be discovered
in all corners o the country. Play a round
on the lush links course o Machrie on
the Isle o Islay beore enjoying a dram at
a nearby distillery, or put your game to
the test on the esteemed championship
course at Royal Dornoch, set amidst
breathtaking Highland scenery.
Scotlands long daylight hours in
summer mean that late tee times are
possible. Courses are well maintained,
oen playable or most o the year, with
average ees as little as 40.
Follow in the ootsteps o todays goling
champions and tee off on the course
which hosted The 2014 Ryder Cup. Visit
the stunning Gleneagles or a round on
the PGA Centenary Course, and plan time
to relax at the 5-star resort and enjoy the
beautiul Perthshire countryside.
In July 2016, witness The Open
Championship, one o the most exciting
events on the goling calendar. The event
returns to Royal Troon in Ayrshire or the
ninth time, as world greats compete or
the Claret Jug on the historic greens and
airways o the clubs Old Course.
Carnoustie in Angus will once again host
the 2016 Senior Open Championship
in September, where experienced
competitors will be challenged with a
tough but air test on a championship
course.
M ac hrie Go lf Li nk s by Po rt E ll en, I sl e of Islay Stromne ss Gol f course l ooking over to the Isla nd of H oy, O rkneyFun at the 144th Open
Aqui ni is vidustiunt
ute conse sim fugiam ra
debit, omnitem corrovi
dellaboria ea di at.
Quisque volutpat
Quisque volutpat
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Scotland - a touring
adventure at your
own pace
The sheer variety of landscapes, towns and cities which
Scotland offers makes touring especially rewarding.
Lowland to Highland, east to west
without travelling great distances it
is easy to experience breathtaking
mountain scenery, romantic lochs and
glens and just enjoy the act that there
are so many attractions on the way
whatever takes your interest: castles,
standing stones, distilleries, gardens and
lots more.
Its easy to travel around Scotland. In
addition to motorways and good main
roads, there is an excellent network o
lightly trafficked rural roads notably in
the Borders and Galloway, Fie, Angus,
Aberdeenshire and Moray. I city based,
or without your own transport, then
several operators offer guided tours,
day trips or longer, to some o Scotlandsinest landscapes. Its a good way o
viewing areas such as beautiul Loch
Lomond or the rugged grandeur o Glen
Coe.
Public transport, with its integrated train,
erry and bus timetables, offers plenty o
options. For example, the unorgettable
rail journey rom Fort William to Mallaig
offers stunning island views. Then take
the erry to Armadale on Skye, bus to a
choice o island attractions , admiring
the awesome Cuillin Hills en route,
beore returning to Glasgow or Edinburgh
via the Skye Bridge and Inverness.
Altogether, a straightorward itinerary
but so rewarding.
Independent travellers with their own
transport have an excellent choice o
signposted National Tourist Routes
and themed itineraries. The Galloway
National Tourist Route takes in the
places associated with Robert Burns,
Scotlands amous poet, as well as
historic properties such as Threave
Castle. While touring, check special
discounts available through schemes
such as Historic Scotlands Explorer Pass
i visiting several historic sites.
Plan a tour o Scotland - ind outmore atwww.visitscotland.com/see-do/tours/touring
The Quiraing, Isle of Skye
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Take a trip throughthe beautiful Borderscountryside on the brandnew Borders Railway, nowrunning between Edinburghand Tweedbank with eight
stops along the line
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Balranald RSPB nature reserve, North Uist, Outer Hebrides
Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire The Borders Railway
Tourist trail
Wherever you tour, look out or thebrown Thistle Signs by the road that
point the way to all kinds o walks, trails,
attractions and adventures.
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The Isle of Harris
Donald John Mackay
Harris Tweed weaver
There are many beautiul beaches on
the Isle o Harris where I am rom, and
I live near one o the most magniicent
beaches in the world - Luskentyre!
It is situated on
the west coasto the island and
has beautiul
white sands and
turquoise waters.
Insider tip
The roof garden at New Lanark
The sign for Bunnahabhain Distillery, Isle of Islay
Hidden gems
Explore the lanes and wynds oquaint ishing villages such as Crail
in the East Neuk o Fie.
See thousands o seabirds on
a boat trip around Shetlands
dramatic Noss cliffs.
Experience a sense o tranquillity
on the peaceul Isle o Iona off the
west coast.
Sail at a gentle pace across Loch
Katrine on the steamship SS SirWalter Scott.
Bring your camera and capture the
stunning views o Loch Shiel at the
Gleninnan Monument.
Plan a walk through the beautiul
Glen Clova in Angus .
Stroll along the untouched white
sands o Traigh lar Beach in the
Outer Hebrides.
Soak up the rugged landscapes o
the north Highlands on the new
driving route, the North Coast 500.
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UNCOVE
R
YOURS
COTL
AND
Uncover all that Scotland has to offer. Drop into
one of our VisitScotland Information Centres and
get the best advice on everything there is to see
and do. Get top travel tips, tickets for events, tours
and activities, book the perfect accommodation
and even pick up that special Scottish souvenir.
Whatever you need, our friendly expertsare here to help you make the most of
your time in Scotland.
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Lunan Bay, near Montrose, Angus View from McCaigs Tower, Oban Melrose Abbey, Scottish Borders
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Your trip to ScotlandThere are a hundreds o ways to ill your holiday in Scotland with scenicsplendour and great things to see and do. Step on board a historic boat,take a train ride through a ormer ilm set, or taste stunning local oodand drink - there are many places to visit in Scotland, whatever your
interest.Tourist attractions in Scotland include charming castles and countryhouses, ascinating museums and riendly wildlie parks. But thats notall, there is also a stunning variety o coasts and beaches, hill and lochs,and i youre lucky, you may even spot the Loch Ness Monster, Nessie!
Enjoy antastic ood and drink in caes and restaurants and go behindthe scenes at whisky distilleries on a tour, or plan a amily-riendly dayout around ree attractions. Unleash your wild side with adventureactivities or look out or local wildlie during a quiet stroll or cycle along
one o the national cycle routes.
Whatever you are interested in - rom arts to ancestry; castles to cities;wildlie to whisky - there are lots o ideas to inspire you. Whether youancy a three-day trip with Royal connections, a tour o Malt WhiskyCountry or are looking or the nearest sporting attraction, youll indthe perect itinerary or Scotland to help you plan your trip.www.visitscotland.com/see-do/itineraries
These 12 routes will direct you off the
main trunk roads and motorways to
discover Scotlands diverse landscape,
towns and villages and ind great things
to see and do on the way. The routes are
easy to ollow, vary in length and are
well signposted with distinctive brown
and white signs.
Angus Coastal Route
Starting in Dundee it takes you 58 miles
(93 km) through Angus and north to
Aberdeen, a stunning city o glittering
granite. Along the way you will discover
the spectacular coastline dotted with
picturesque seaside resorts. Youll also
enjoy sandy beaches, championship
gol courses, nature reserves, country
parks and a ertile countryside reaching
inland through the Mearns and the Vale
o Strathmore to the Angus Glens and
the Grampians.
Argyll Coastal Route
A 149 mile (238 km) journey rom Tarbet
on the bonny banks o Loch Lomond,
you will travel up through Argyll and
on to Fort William in the Highlands.
Turning north, youll pass the lovely
Crinan Canal and reach the bustling port
town o Oban. From Oban, cross the
impressive Connel Bridge and journey
on up through Ballachulish to Fort
William.
Borders Historic Route
Discover the dramatic scenery o the
Scottish Borders on a 95 mile (142
km) journey between the English city
o Carlisle and Scotlands capital,
Edinburgh. You will travel through
an area which has been at the heart
o Scotlands history and culture or
centuries.
national tourist routes
NORTH COAST 500
Scotlands answer to Route 66,
this 500 mile coastal route spans
the north coast o the Highlandstaking in the best bits o this
glorious region.
The route starts in the northern
city o Inverness, then weaves
along the west coast to
Applecross and then northwards
towards the bustling towns o
Torridon and Ullapool. From
there, youll venture to some
o the most northerly coastal
points in Scotland, passing by
Caithness and John o Groats
beore heading south again
through Dingwall and inally
back to Inverness.
www.northcoast500.com/
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national tourist routes
The Kelpies at the Helix, Falkirk Sango Bay, Durness, Sutherland The Queens View, Loch Tummel, Perthshire
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Clyde Valley Tourist Route
Follow the River Clyde through
contrasting landscapes which are rich
in history by turning off the M74 at
Abington (or Hamilton i approaching
rom the opposite direction) andollowing the signs along the 42 mile (67
km) stretch o roads including the A73,
A72 and A702.
Deeside Tourist Route
Starts in Perth and runs north or 107
miles (171 km) to Aberdeen. You will
travel around Blairgowrie, then the
Highland landscape takes over and
the route climbs 2,182 (665 m) on the
A93, Britains highest main road. Pass
through Glenshee, which is home to one
o Scotlands ive snowsports centres,
beore descending to Braemar. As
you drive through Royal Deeside, you
will pass Balmoral Castle, a summer
residence o the Royal Family. Follow
the route through the delightul villages
o Ballater, Aboyne and Banchory
beore inally reaching Aberdeen.
Fife Coastal Route
This popular route stretches 85 miles
(136 km) around the north east coast
o the Kingdom o Fie. Follow the route
north rom Edinburgh or south rom
Dundee. From Edinburgh, cross the
iconic Forth Road Bridge. Following the
signs west will take you urther into the
Forth Estuary to the ancient capital o
Dunermline and the Royal Burgh oCulross. The coastal route can also be
ollowed east rom the Forth bridges
through the picturesque villages o the
East Neuk with their distinctive red pan
tiled roos, arts scenes and unspoilt
beaches. Keep ollowing the route and
you will reach St Andrews.
Forth Valley Tourist Route
This is a 40 mile (64 km) route romEdinburgh to Stirling. In West Lothian,
you can take a look around the
historic Linlithgow Palace. Next on the
route is the bustling town o Falkirk
and as you enter Stirlingshire, you
will see the rolling Ochil hills in the
distance with the villages and towns o
Clackmannanshire beneath them on
the way into Stirling, the city where the
Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle
sit proudly atop the hills.
Galloway Tourist Route
This route stretches 96 miles (154
km) rom Gretna, through the lush
countryside o Dumries & Galloway and
into Ayrshire, in the very heart o Burns
country. As you travel you will pass
through Gretna Green beore continuing
on to Dumries, a quaint market
town. At Dalbeattie you can join theSolway Coast Heritage Trail to visit the
abundance o castles, abbeys, gardens
and harbours urther west. Next on
the Galloway Tourist Route, youll ind
Castle Douglas, Dumries & Galloways
Food Town. From here you can venture
through the expansive countryside o
the Galloway Forest Park.
Highland Tourist RouteFrom Aberdeen, ollow the 118 mile
(189 km) Highland Tourist Route to
Inverness. The route takes you through
the lovely valley o Upper Donside and
the heather-clad slopes o the Lecht.
Travel into Speyside, the heart o
whisky country and Scotlands Malt
Whisky Trail distilleries. The last lap o
the route takes you through Grantown-
on-Spey, and then on to the city oInverness, the capital o the Highlands.
Moray Firth Route
A 80 mile (128 km) semi-circle trip
rom Inverness around three o the
most beautiul inlets on the east coast
o Britain - the Beauly, Cromarty and
Dornoch irths - as it heads north into
the heart o the northern Highlands.
North & West Highlands Route
Starting at the thriving ishing village
o Ullapool, the 140 mile (224 km)
route winds its way north through
the magniicent mountain country o
the northern Highlands, passing the
picturesque villages o Achiltibuie,
Lochinver and Kinlochbervie as it
makes or Durness in the ar north west
corner o Scotland. From Durness, the
route heads east through graduallysoening scenery to John o Groats.
Perthshire Tourist Route
This 45 mile (72 km) route through
Perthshire begins just north o
Dunblane and takes you to Ballinluig
near Pitlochry. Descend rom here to
the charming Abereldy and skirt the
ast lowing River Tay on the A827,
rejoining the A9 near Pitlochry.
www.visitscotland.com/travel/
around-scotland/national-tourist-
routes
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The Castle of Mey, 5 star visitor attractionby Thurso, Caithness
Youll be surprised where our
search for quality takes us.
o it is clean, tidy and an acceptable standardoo it is a good, all round standard
ooo it is a very good standard, with attention to detail in every area
oooo it is excellent furnished using high quality materials, superb food where provided and friendly, professional service
ooooo an exceptional standard where presentation, ambience, food where provided and service are hard to fault
Accommodation establishments awarded gold stars have consistently achieved the highest levels of excellence
within their star grading.
We want you to feel welcome find establishments that pay particular attention to your specific needs:
DWalkers C Cyclists Anglers Bikers Classic Cars
Golfers Children Field Sports Groups Ancestral Tourism
Because we care www.green-tourism.com
The Green Tourism Business Scheme operated by GBUK assesses the level of sustainable practice.
Businesses that work in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way are graded:
Bronze, Silveror Gold
Taste Our Best food and drink award
One way to ensure that youll enjoy Scottish food and drink of exceptional quality is to look for places that are part of
Taste Our Best, our food and drink quality scheme.
We assess the presentation, quality and service of food in every kind of eating establishment throughout Scotland.
The Taste Our Best award also ensures that you will have a choice of quality ingredients of Scottish provenance and
the freshest seasonal produce.
Quite simply, it takes us the length and breadth of Scotland to visit thousands of
different properties every year and grade them on the things we know matter to
you. Things like the overall quality on offer and warmth of welcome to help you make
a more informed choice. VisitScotland Quality Assurance. Quality you can trust.
THESIGN
OFQUALITY
For more information on Quality Assurance please contact us on Tel: 01463 244111, Email [email protected]
or visit www.visitscotland.com/qa. For any feedback or comments you may have on star awarded properties please
email us on [email protected]. VisitScotland, Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3BJ.
Call into any VisitScotland Information Centre for further information www.visitscotland.com/wheretofindus
o
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Places to stay
Where you stay is often as important as what you see. You
name it, weve got it. Everything from 5-star hotels andexclusive lodges to bed & breakfasts, backpacker hostels
and camping grounds by mountain streams. What about a
castle, a lighthouse, a farm, or even a wooden wigwam?
Inverlochy Castle, Lochaber
Page 20
For inormationon VisitScotlandQuality Assured
properties throughoutScotland visit www.visitscotland.comoror inormation andadvice to help you planand book your nextholiday [email protected]
Inns and restaurants with roomsEnjoy a traditional stay in a cosy inn, where you can relax with a drink in the
bar and tuck into a home-cooked meal. Restaurants with rooms provide
accommodation along with wonderul dining options.
Hotels, guest houses and bed & breakfastsWhether you preer the sleek and sophisticated style o a modern city centre
hotel, or the grand setting o a ine country house, Scotland has it all. Meetriendly locals and discover world-amous Scottish hospitality at the many
guest houses and bed & breakasts, or even stay in a armhouse.
Self-cateringWhen it comes to sel catering, theres a huge choice on offer. Scotland hascharming traditional cottages, spacious modern chalets and trendy city
apartments. The rental is arranged in advance and is normally on a weekly
basis. Serviced apartments are essentially sel-catering apartments where
other services (such as cleaning) are available.
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Youll be surprised where our search for quality takes us.VisitScotland, under the Scottish Tourist Board brand, runs the star
grading schemes. We visit thousands o different properties every
year and grade them on the things we know matter to you. Things
like the standard o hospitality, service, and customer care to help
you make a more inormed choice. Look out or establishments
carrying the VisitScotland quality award.
Castles and stately homesIt is possible to stay in a castle or historic house
in Scotland. Choose rom a range o high quality
serviced or sel-catering properties.
Camping and caravanningCamping, caravanning and campervan enthusiasts
will appreciate Scotlands wide range o well-equipped
caravan and camping parks. Hire a holiday home or
arrive with your own touring caravan, campervan or tent.
HostelsScotland has an extensive network o hostels either
belonging to the Scottish Youth Hostels Association
(SYHA) or to independent or privately owned companies.
Unusual places to stayDid you know you can stay in lighthouses, traditional
brochs, armhouses or even on a boat whilst you visit
Scotland? Make your holiday one to remember and ind
quirky accommodation options.
Page 21
Our Welcome SchemesThese tell you about establishments which
pay particular attention to the specificneeds of visitors. As well as our Walkers
Welcome and Cyclists Welcome schemes,
there are schemes for anglers, bikers,
classic cars, golfers, children, field sports,
groups and ancestral tourism.
Access all areasSpecific details on businesses that have
accessible facilities and features can be
found on our website
www.visitscotland.com
Because we careThe Green Tourism Business
Scheme operated by
GBUK assesses the level
of sustainable practice
businesses are achieving, with Bronze,
Silver and Gold awards.
Visitwww.green-tourism.com
THESIGN
OFQUALITY
Find accommodation and moreinormation at www.visitscotland.com/accommodation
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A flavour of
Scotland
Scotland is truly a feast for the senses, so why not indulge
your taste buds on your visit and sample our world-classproduce?Grass-ed bee rom Aberdeenshire,
venison rom the Highland hills, shellish
rom the west coast these are just
some o the many delights youll ind in
Scotlands natural larder. Tuck into the
best o Scottish produce and enjoy our
many great eateries and delightul oodie
experiences.
Haggis is the best known o Scotlands
traditional dishes and sometimes
appears as a starter or as part o a main
dish. To sample Scotlands tradition o
soup making, try Cullen Skink, a ish
soup made rom smoked haddock and
potatoes. Oatmeal, a traditional Scottish
staple, means porridge, oatcakes and
desserts including cranachan (toasted
oats, honey, whisky, cream and berries).
Other examples o authentic tastes
include Scottish cheeses, such as Lanark
Blue and Ross-shire Caboc; smoked
ish, most notably the Arbroath Smokie
or delectable smoked salmon; clootie
dumpling (made with dried ruit and
spices); and a range o bakery goods,
including the buttery, close relative o the
French croissant!
Uncover a foodie paradiseon the Isle of Arran, anisland known for its beers,whisky, cheese and icecream.
Visit a Scottish armers market, where
local producers sell direct to consumers.
From Kelso in the Scottish Borders to
Lerwick on Shetland, regular monthly
markets can be ound where you canmeet and buy direct rom the people that
produce Scotlands wonderul ood and
drink.
Whet your appetite and ollow one o
the many tasty ood and drink trails. You
can discover the treasures o the sea as
you ollow the Seaood Trail through
Scotlands west coast, or satisy your
sweet tooth on Scotlands Chocolate
Trail.
Over the year there are some great ood
and drink events, such as the Crail Food
Festival in Fie or the Tarbert Seaood
Festival in Argyll. In the spring, try
Scotlands national drink at the Spirit o
Speyside Whisky Festival, or enjoy other
Whisky Month events in May.
Treat yoursel and book a table in one
o the many ine restaurants and enjoy
delicious Scottish produce, preparedwith skill by our talented ches.
Discover more about Scotlandsdelightul ood and drink at www.visitscotland.com/tastescotland
Arbroath Smokies being prepar ed by Iain R Spink at Auchmithie, Angus
Page 22
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Artisan br ead stall
Seafood platter at Ee-Usk, Oban
Farmers MarketsYoull ind these throughout Scotland, as armers
and producers sell their resh local produce, such
as ruit, game and cheese.
The Famous Grouse Experience, Perthshire
WhiskyYou cant visit Scotland without trying whisky why not head to a distillery to see how this
amber-coloured spirit is made, and sample ine
malts at the source?
DiningTry one o Scotlands award-winning restaurantsor an exclusive culinary experience. With 14
Michelin-star restaurants across the country,
youll be spoilt or choice.
Look out for the Taste Our Best logo
Taste Our BestMake sure you enjoy Scottish ood and drink o
exceptional quality by looking or places that
are part o Taste Our Best, our quality assurance
scheme.
Page 23
Insider tipKing scallops on Mull
Guy Grieve
Ethical Shellisher
You may think Im biased, but in my
opinion a seared dived king
scallop, one o my avourite
Scottish oods, is hard to
beat. The scallop is bestwhen it is prepared simply:
with salt and pepper, garlic,
butter and sunlower oil.
Dont miss...
Make sure you sample haggis,Scotlands national dish its spicy,
moist and moreish!
Learn about the wonders o the
whisky-making process at one o
the many distilleries.
Grab some succulent seaood
rom the Lobster Shack in North
Berwick or try resh oysters
straight rom the shell at Loch
Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar. For the ultimate indulgence, book
a table at Restaurant Andrew
Fairlie at Gleneagles, Scotlands
only two Michelin-star restaurant.
Tuck into a traditional ish supper
o battered ish and chips, a meal
thats best enjoyed by the sea.
Sample mouth-watering cheeses
rom independent producers on
the Scottish Cheese Trail. Enjoy a delicious and decadent
aernoon tea, complete with
sandwiches, scones and cakes, in
an elegant country house hotel.
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Scotland on
Screen
Scotlands spectacular landscapes,
quality of light, its people and itsstories have long been immortalised
on the silver screen. For many, its
been the next best thing to being here
but the only way to really appreciate
the magic and beauty is to see it for
yourself.
The dramatic hills o Glen Nevis and Glen
Coe were the setting or Braveheart,
the portrayal o one o the countrys
most iconic igures, eaturing Mel Gibson
as William Wallace and detailing the
struggle against English occupation in
the 13th century. Highlander,starring
Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery,
eatured these same landscapes
alongside romantic Eilean Donan Castle,
also recognisable or its appearance in
the James Bond movie The World Is
Not Enough. More recently Glen Coe
provided the backdrop to dramaticscenes or Skyfall.
The breathtaking train chase scene
rom Harry Potter and the Chamber of
Secretseatures the Hogwarts Express
Balmoral Castle, by Braemar, Aberdeenshire Calton Hill, Edinburgh The Da Vinci Codefeatures Rosslyn Chapel, Roslin
Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven
Page 24
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and a lying Ford Anglia car crossing the
historic Gleninnan Viaduct in the west
Highlands. Experience the same magical
journey with a trip on The Jacobite steam
train between Fort William and Mallaig.
Michael Fassbender took the title role
in 2015s eature length ilm version o
Shakespeares classic play Macbeth.
The dark tragedy is suitably set against
the stark and desolate backdrop o the
Quiraing, a dramatic landslip on the
impressive Trotternish Ridge on the Isle
o Skye.
In 2015, Dunnottar Castle in
Aberdeenshire also appeared on
the big screen in horror ilm Victor
Frankenstein, starring James McAvoy
and Daniel Radcliffe. Some movie magic
was used to transorm the dramatic
clifop castle into an eerie and sinister
setting.
Scotlands sparkling coastline has alsobeen eatured in well-loved ilms such
as Chariots of Fire, ilmed on the West
Sands beach at St Andrews, and Local
Hero, ilmed on Camusdarach beach
in Morar. More recently, Oscar-winning
biopic The Queenwas ilmed at the
Balmoral Estatein Royal Deeside while
The Da Vinci Codeshowcased Rosslyn
Chapel, just outside Edinburgh.
Scotlands beautiul but compact capital
city has proved the perect location
or a number o projects, including
animated eature The Illusionist, which
brings 1950s Edinburgh to lie, and the
adaptation o David Nicholls best-selling
novel One Day. Starring Anne Hathaway
and Jim Sturgess and detailing their lives
as riends and lovers over 20 years, the
ilm eatures iconic locations such as
Calton Hill and the Georgian architecture
o the citys New Town.
Scotland has inspired ilm makers or
generations, Scotland was the land that
inspired DisneyPixars Brave. The story
ollows the lame-haired heroine Merida
battling to change her ate, although
Braveis set in a ictional medieval
Scotland, Pixars animators were deeplyinluenced by the real countrys sheer
rugged landscapes. Highland games,
standing stones and clan culture are just
a ew o the irmly Scottish sights in this
stunning lighthearted adventure.
OutlanderThe award-winning TV series
Outlander, based on Diana
Gabaldons best-selling novels was
ilmed at a number o stunning
locations across Scotland. Doune
Castle has had a starring role in the
hit show, as well as the enchanting
Fie towns o Culross and Falkland.
Discover more at
www.visitscotland.com/outlander
Page 25
Towards the Palace, Culross, Fife
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Scotlands
Cultural spirit
What makes Scotland so distinctive? There are some things
that are uniquely Scottish but, in truth, theres no singleelement that defines the country. Rather, its a subtle blend
of our many different ingredients that have been added to
the mix down through the centuries.Scotlands culture certainly involves
reaching out. Thats why, or instance,
Glasgows Celtic Connections (held in
January) showcases both native talentand perormers rom across the Celtic
areas o Europe and beyond, while
the city becomes the centre o the
world o piping during the Piping Live!
International Piping Festival.
While high proile events such as the
Edinburgh International Festival, along
with the Fringe, Book and Film Festivals
and the stirring Royal Edinburgh Military
Tattoo, inevitably command attention,
other parts o Scotland also stage
prestigious cultural events. For example,
the Perth Festival o the Arts every May
brings a huge choice o music and other
art orms to this picturesque Scottish city
on the River Tay. The annual Braemar
Highland Gathering in September is
Scotlands premier Highland games
because o the attendance o Britains
royalty but is only one event in a games
programme right across Scotland.
Its easy to dip into Scotlands traditional
music in inormal settings. Musical
get-togethers called ceilidhs are
oen advertised locally in advance,especially in smaller places. Ask your
accommodation provider or check with
your local VisitScotland Inormation
Centre. Folk music sessions in local pubs
can even happen spontaneously, while
at city venues such as Hootananny in
Inverness or Ghillie Dhu in Edinburgh
regularly-changing programmes make it
easy to sample the vitality o Scotlands
musical culture.
Find out whats on in Scotland in2016 on page 28
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Page 26
In 2016, join us as wecelebrate the Year of
Innovation, Architectureand Design and be partof some thrilling events,festivals and projectstaking place across theyear.
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T he wo rl d s l arge st wi nt er m usic f esti va l, G la sgo w B la ir Athol l H ighla nders t ug -o -w ar
Celtic ConnectionsEnjoy a huge variety o sounds rom home-grown
talent and international perormers at this popular
annual music estival held in Glasgow during
January.
Highland gamesI youre in Scotland during the summer, dont miss
the chance to see traditional sports like tug-o-war
and caber tossing at a Highland games.
World Pipe Band Championships, Glasgow Iain Macfarlane playing in the Market Bar, Inverness
Piping Live! and the World Pipe Band ChampionshipsScotland has a rich piping heritage, and you can watch some o the best bagpipers in the country perormat events such as Piping Live! and the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow.
Folk musicFrom the evocative sound o the bagpipes to thelively music o the iddle, immerse yoursel in
traditional Scottish olk music at live music nights.
Revellers at a ceilidh participate in an energetic Strip the Willow
Ceilidh dancingGet a taste o traditional Scottish dance at a
ceilidh - try dancing the Dashing White Sergeantor
the Flying Scotsmanto the sound o a traditional
ceilidh band.
Page 27
Gaelic music
Kathleen MacInnes
Gaelic Singer
Gaelic is still very much part o
everyday lie in places
like South Uist where
I grew up. For a taste
o Gaelic culture,
head to the HebCelt
Festival in the Outer
Hebrides where youre
guaranteed a warm
welcome and a good
time!
Insider tip
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Inverness Music Festival
Inverness
27 February - 9 March
An array o competitions includinginstrumental, speech, dance and vocal.www.invernessmusicfestival.org
MARCH 2016
StAnza
St Andrews, Fife
2 - 6 MarchScotlands international celebration opoetry.
www.stanzapoetry.org
Glasgow International Comedy Festival
Glasgow
10 - 27 MarchAn exciting programme o the very beststand-up, comedy theatre, ilm andworkshops and kids events.
www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com
Edinburgh International Science Festival
Edinburgh
26 March - 10 AprilTwo week estival inspiring people to
discover the world around them.www.sciencefestival.co.uk
APRIL 2016
Orkney Ceilidh Weekend
Orkney
8 - 10 April
A weekend ull o traditional dance workshopsand ceilidh.www.orkneycommunities.co.uk/OTDA
126th Melrose Sevens
Scottish Borders
9 AprilThe worlds oldest Rugby Sevens tournamentwith teams rom near and ar.www.melrose7s.com
JANUARY 2016
The Ba',
Kirkwall, Orkney1 January (also 25 December)Historical amous ootball match with around400 players.www.bagame.com
Celtic ConnectionsGlasgow
14 - 31 JanuaryCelebrating Celtic music and it's connectionsto cultures around the worldwww.celticconnections.com
Big Burns SupperDumfries22 - 30 January9 days o celebration - with music, theatreand comedy to commemorate Scotland'smost amous poet.2014.bigburnssupper.com/
Up Helly Aa
Lerwick, Shetland26 JanuaryA Viking estival involving a torchlightprocession and the burning o a galley.www.uphellyaa.org
FEBRUARY 2016
Scottish Snowdrop Festival
Across Scotland
February - March
Scotlands gardens and woodlands displayan array o this delicate white lower.www.visitscotland.com/snowdrop
Glasgow Film Festival
Glasgow
17 - 28 FebruaryA showcase o movies rom around theworld.www.glasgowfilm.org/festival
Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival
Moray Speyside, Highlands
28 April - 2 May
Celebrate Scotlands national drink witha weekend packed ull o whisky-inspiredevents.www.spiritofspeyside.com
MAY 2016
Arran Mountain Festival
Isle of Arran
13 - 16 MayGuided tours and hikes through Arranspicturesque hills and mountains.www.arranmountainfestival.co.uk
Islay Festival of Music and Malt
Argyll
20 - 28 May
Experience the unique taste o Islaysheritage, culture, and hospitality, as well astheir world-amous whisky.www.islayfestival.co.uk
Perth Festival of the Arts
Perth
19 - 29 MayCultural estival eaturing classical music,opera, rock, jazz, olk and visual art.www.perthfestival.co.uk
Events
Spectators enjoying the 144th Open in St Andrews
Edinburgh Festivals
The Enchanted Forest, Perthshire
Page 28
UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, Fort William
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JUNE 2016
Taste of Grampian
Inverurie, Aberdeenshire
4 June
Discover and sample the wide range ohigh quality ood and drink products romAberdeenshire.www.tasteofgrampian.co.uk
UCI Mountain Bike World CupFort William, Highlands
4 & 5 JuneAn amazing event showcasing some o thebest mountain bike action and talent romacross the world.www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk
Edinburgh International Film Festival
Edinburgh
15 - 26 June
Established in 1947, the Film Festival isrenowned around the world or discovering
and promoting the very best in internationalcinema.www.edfilmfest.org.uk
Scottish Traditional Boat Festival
Portsoy, Aberdeenshire
25 & 26 JuneA creative maritime estival eaturing boatbuilding, restoration and sailing along withcras, music and arts.www.stbfportsoy.com
JULY 2016
Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish
Open 2016
Castle Stuart, Inverness
7 - 10 JulyThe worlds best golers compete in one othe most keenly contested championshipson the European Tour calendar.www.aamscottishopen.com
2016 Open Golf Championship
Troon, South Ayrshire
10 - 17 JulyThe worlds greatest golers will gather to dobattle or the amous Claret Jug.www.royaltroon2016open.com
Hebridean Celtic Festival
Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides
13 - 16 JulyA mix o indigenous Gaelic music romhome-grown musicians and a vast arrayo world-class perormers rom across theCeltic nations.www.hebceltfest.com
Edinburgh International Jazz and BluesFestival
Edinburgh
15 - 24 July
World class jazz and blues music rom avariety o bands, singers and musicians.www.edinburghjazzfestival.com
AUGUST 2016
Skye Highland GamesPortree, Skye
2 & 3 August
Piping competitions on the irst day and onthe second day, traditional Highland games.www.skye-highland-games.co.uk
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Edinburgh
5 - 27 AugustA unique and memorable celebration omusic, dance and military pageantry inEdinburgh Castle.www.edintattoo.co.uk
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Edinburgh
5 - 29 August
The worlds largest arts estival - acelebration o arts and entertainmentacross the city.www.edfringe.com
Cowal Highland Gathering
Dunoon, Argyll
25 - 27 AugustThree day traditional Highland games.
www.cowalgathering.com
Largs Viking Festival
Largs, Ayrshire
27 August - 8 SeptemberViking heritage is celebrated where themain attraction ois the living history Vikingvillage, along with parades and events.www.largsvikingfestival.com
SEPTEMBER 2016Blas Festival
Highlands and Argyll
Various dates in SeptemebrA unique cultural celebration o theGaelic language and music o the ScottishHighlands.www.blas-festival.com
Braemar Highland Gathering
Braemar, Aberdeenshire
3 September
Traditional Highland gameswww.braemergathering.org
OCTOBER 2016
Royal National Mod
Stornoway, Outer Hebrides
14 - 22 October
Celebrating our Gaelic linguistic and culturalheritage, Scotlands premier Gaelic estival.www.ancomunn.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2016
St Andrews Day
Across Scotland
30 November
A day o celebrations or Scotlands patronsaint.www.visitscotland.com
DECEMBER 2016
Hogmanay
Across Scotland
31 DecemberThere are numerous New Year celebrationsthat take place throughout Scotland.www.visitscotland.com
A small selection of Hogmanaycelebrations listed below:
Edinburghs Hogmanay
Edinburgh
www.edinburghshogmanay.com
The Flambeaux
Comrie, Perthshirewww.comrie.org.uk
Stonehaven Fireball Festival
Aberdeenshirestonehavenfireballs.co.uk
Up Helly Aa, Lerwick, Shetland
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A lifetimes ancestral research is no substitute for actually
visiting Scotland. To walk in your ancestors footsteps is
no clich but an unforgettable experience easily realised,
thanks to Scotlands extensive genealogical resources.Track down your clan tartan, touch
the walls o your amily castle, or see i
your ancestors were listed in the Poor
Law records a reminder that not all
Scots were living the high lie! Take that
irst step to explore your past and your
Scottish homecoming will be a personal,ascinating journey.
Begin your search at one o the archives
which are located across the country,
such as the ScotlandsPeople Centre in
Edinburgh, or browse through trade
directories, newspapers and registers
which date back to the 18th century at
Glasgows Mitchell Library. Many ancient
records and old censuses have now been
digitised, so getting started couldnt
be easier. There are also excellentarchives at local registrars offices
and libraries throughout Scotland. In
addition, you can enlist the services o a
proessional genealogist who can help
you research your roots. Some specialise
Caescessidis. Aximperitrum etistinticio compes hore
Dus. Sunt porpori dollace rchilibus t Iciisqui od quodi aditasi minctotatae reperum quatur sam Met aute perions erianim a net la ne pos aut off iciis sentio
Page 30
Come walk in the
footsteps of
your ancestors
Dunrobin Castle, Golspie
The Memorial to the Massacre of Glencoe The Heritage Hub , Hawick The Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen
in a particular area o Scotland, and
might even take you to your ancestral
homeland.
I youve got a Scottish surname, why not
see i theres a clan society that you can
join? Many o Scotlands clans meet eachyear or a clan gathering to celebrate
their ancestral heritage. Oen therell
be a spread o cultural events, rom
banquets and ceilidhs to historian-led
walks.
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Page 31
Start your ancestral
journey
To help you plan your own personal
journey to Scotland visit our website
to ind out more about your clan,
tartan and ancestral home. We offer
a number o different downloadable
itinerary suggestions to help you
plan your trip to Scotland and ollow
the story o your clan by visiting
castles, museums and battle sitesacross the country. We also have a
range o businesses including
accommodation providers listed on
our site who are part o our Ancestral
Welcome Scheme, giving you the
assurance that they can guide you
in terms o local sites related to your
clan, events taking place, and even
who may be able to help urther your
genealogical search during your stay.
Visit
www.visitscotland.com/ancestryto ind out more.New Register House, Edinburgh
TartanWith its colourul threads in traditional
patterns, tartan is Scotlands mostamous textile. Take a trip to the Clan
Tartan Centre in Leith, Edinburgh, where
you can search their database o 50,000
names and take away a certiicate
showing your clan name.
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Your Travel Guide
Getting to Scotland is simple and straightforward
and once you get here, some of the worlds mostbreathtaking landscapes are within easy reach.
The A87 road on the edge of Loch Cluanie, Highlands Barra airport, Traigh Mhor Beach, Isle of Barra, Outer Hebrides
The Glenfinnan viaduct on the West Highland Line
Page 32
Ardrossan to Brodick, Isle of Arran
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Depending on where you are coming
rom you can choose rom a selection
o non-stop lights, or a wide range o
connections through hub airports within
the Middle East or Europe including
London, Amsterdam, Paris, Frankurt and
Dublin. There are also a number o erry
route options to the United Kingdom i
you are travelling rom mainland Europe
or rom Ireland.
London is around an hours light to
Edinburgh or Glasgow, and Scotlands
other main airports enjoy regular
service rom London and other UK cities.
Onward travel rom Scotlands airports
to the nearby city centres is quick and
well co-ordinated.
The journey rom London by train takes
around 4 hours 30 minutes to Edinburgh
and 5 hours to Glasgow and takes you
directly into the city centres.
Travelling around the country is
effortless too, thanks to an extensive
road network, excellent rail links and
comprehensive bus system. Theres
also an efficient erry service, taking
passengers to and rom Scotlands many
islands.
View from Isle of Raasay looking towards the Isle of Skye
Page 33
For urther travelinormation please visitwww.visitscotland.com
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www.scotland.org
Cover main image: Caerlaverock Castle, near Dumries Damian Shields, VisitScotland, all rights reserved
Photographic credits: VisitScotland. Kenny Lam;Paul Tomkins; Richard Elliot; Airborne Lens; Alan McAteer;Richard Campbell; Devlin Photo Ltd; Iain Sarjeant;Glyn Satterley; tomek_emigrant / Dollar Photo Club;Damian Shields.
Product No. N16SMIEN
Published by VisitScotland, Edinburgh EH6 6JHVisitScotland is the national tourism organisation oScotland. VisitScotland 2015/16
No material may be reproduced rom this publicationwithout prior permission o VisitScotland.
VisitScotland is committed to ensuring that ourenvironment, upon which our tourism is so dependent, issaeguarded or uture generations to enjoy.
The inormation contained in this publication is assupplied to VisitScotland and to the best o VisitScotlandsknowledge was correct at the time o going to press.VisitScotland can accept no responsibility or any errors oromissions. November 2015.