things to do in Scotland

Things to do in Scotland

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Discover the best attractions and things to do in Scotland

Home to some of the top tourist destinations in the UK, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Scotland all year round!

A wealth of activities and attractions await, whether that’s exploring the rugged Isle of Skye or wandering the picturesque streets of Edinburgh. However you choose to spend your time, there’s something for everyone in Scotland.

Scotland Attractions

Immerse yourself in the country’s history at some of the most popular heritage attractions in Scotland. Visit the castles of Stirling, Inveraray or Glamis, the Neolithic ruins of Skara Brae, or the Culloden Battlefield near Inverness. Take a boat tour of Loch Ness to spot the famed sea monster, whilst glens, mountains and jagged coastlines are must-see Scotland attractions.

Ramble through the spectacular Glen Coe Valley, or travel to Fort William and climb the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Scotland is a haven for wildlife lovers. Here, you can find puffins, dolphins and highland cows as you venture along rugged coasts or luscious valleys.

Scotland Activities

Outdoor adventures will be spoilt for choice with climbing, hiking, sailing and angling opportunities in Scotland. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is a popular choice covering mountains, forests and the largest freshwater lake in Britain, all scattered with walking trails. Are you looking for family-friendly activities? Admire tropical fish at Deep Sea World in North Queensferry and walk through the UK’s largest underwater tunnel.

Almond Valley Museum, Farm and Discovery Centre in West Lothian also offer a wide range of activities. For unforgettable trips covering more ground, drive the open roads of the North Coast 500 route or catch magical glimpses on the Jacobite Steam Railway, recognisable from the Harry Potter film series.

Keep reading to discover even more things to do in Scotland…

  • Portobello Beach Edinburgh

    Portobello Beach

    1 Promenade
    Edinburgh
    United Kingdom
    EH15 1DT

    Edinburgh’s Portobello Beach rests to the northwest of the city centre. Offering families a traditional seaside outing, the beach backs onto a lengthy promenade and offers panoramic views of the North Sea.

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  • Princes Street

    Princes Street
    Edinburgh
    Scotland
    United Kingdom
    EH2 2AN

    Princes Street, Edinburgh is a large thoroughfare resting in the city centre, enjoying unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle. A fantastic day out, this street is home to a range of high street shops as well as access to the city’s attractions.

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  • Princes Street Gardens Edinburgh

    Princes Street Gardens

    Princes St
    Edinburgh
    Scotland
    United Kingdom
    EH2 2HG

    0131 529 7921

    Detour off Edinburgh’s main street and into the delightful Princes Street Gardens. Described as one of the ‘most beautiful gardens in Edinburgh’, this is a great area to discover monuments and panoramic views.

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  • River Ness, Scotland

    River Ness

    An enchanting river flowing between the famous Loch Ness and the city of Inverness, the banks of the River Ness host some of the city’s finest architecture.

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  • Rothiemurchus, Cairngorms National Park

    Rothiemurchus

    Rothiemurchus Centre
    Aviemore
    PH22 1QH

    01479 812345

    The perfect destination for a day of unforgettable adventure, Rothiemurchus is home to a 13th century island castle, a wealth of wildlife, wonderful outdoor activities and much more.

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  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Palm House
    Image Credits: Ham - CC BY-SA 3.0

    Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

    Arboretum Place
    Edinburgh
    EH3 5NZ

    0131 248 2909

    The renowned Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a 70-acre estate sitting near the heart of Edinburgh. If you love plants of any kind; this needs to be on your itinerary!

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  • Royal Yacht Britannia
    Image credits: Ben Salter - (CC BY 2.0)

    Royal Yacht Britannia

    Ocean Dr
    Edinburgh
    EH6 6JJ

    0131 555 5566

    One of Scotland’s most popular attractions, have a look around this tremendous ocean liner that has sailed the Royal Family more than one million miles across the globe.  

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  • Scone Castle

    Scone Palace

    Perth
    PH2 6BD

    01738 552300

    The astounding stately home and former coronation site of Scottish Kings, Scone Palace is a Category A listed house and a fine example of Georgian Gothic architecture. It makes for a fascinating day out, offering a real glimpse into Scottish monarchial history.

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  • Scotch Whisky Experience

    Scotch Whisky Experience

    The Royal Mile
    Edinburgh
    EH1 2NE

    0131 220 0441

    From ‘virtual’ distillery tours to expert tasting secrets, the Scotch Whisky Experience showcases Scotland’s historic whisky culture with fascinating, five-star tour packages designed for experts and casual fans alike. 

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  • Scott Monument

    Scott Monument

    E. Prince St gardens
    Edinburgh
    United Kingdom
    EH2 2EJ

    0131 529 4068

    This iconic piece of Gothic Victorian architecture rests in the heart of Princes Street Park. A fantastic stop for history and literature lovers, Scott Monument has ties to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott!

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