things to do in Scotland

Things to do in Scotland

Search Cottages

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…

  • Scottish National Gallery
    Image Credits: Enric - CC BY-SA 4.0

    Scottish National Gallery

    The Mound
    Edinburgh
    EH2 2EL

    01316246200

    Sitting on top of The Mound in Edinburgh is the renowned Scottish National Gallery. A fantastic outing for all ages, the gallery hosts a large collection of masterpieces dating back to the 12th-century.

    view more information
  • Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Modern One
    Image Credits: Grousebeater2 - CC BY-SA 4.0

    Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

    73 Belford Rd
    Edinburgh
    EH4 3DS

    0131 624 6200

    You can find the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art just off the scenic Dean Village. Consisting of two buildings, Modern One and Modern Two, this magnificent gallery is free for all to visit.

    view more information
  • Scottish National Portrait Gallery exterior
    Image Credits: dun_deagh - CC BY-SA 2.0

    Scottish National Portrait Gallery

    1 Queen St
    Edinburgh
    EH2 1JD

    0131 624 6200

    Nestled on Edinburgh’s Queen Street is the fantastic Scottish National Portrait Gallery. The museum boasts show-stopping masterpieces and offers accessibility for all with free admission and handy facilities.

    view more information
  • Scottish Parliament Building Exterior

    Scottish Parliament Building

    Edinburgh
    Scotland
    United Kingdom
    EH99 1SP

    0131 348 5000

    The Scottish Parliament Building sits by Holyrood Park and is a must-see landmark for anyone interested in politics. You can enjoy a range of activities here, including guided tours, sitting in on parliamentary business and attending exhibitions.

    view more information
  • Family of five at the beach

    Silverknowes Beach

    Silverknowes Beach
    Edinburgh
    Scotland
    EH4 5ES

    Silverknowes Beach rests within easy reach of Edinburgh airport as well as the city centre. This attractive beach is dog-friendly and features three-mile sands containing a promenade, coffee shop and outdoor gym.

    view more information
  • Skara Brae

    Stromness
    KW16 3LR

    01856 841815

    One of the earliest prehistoric sites in Scotland, Skara Brae is a Neolithic settlement built out of stone that had been preserved for millennia under deep sand dunes, and that is now open to the public

    view more information
  • St Giles Cathedral

    St Giles’ Cathedral

    High St
    Old Town
    Edinburgh
    EH1 1RE

    01312260674

    St Giles’ Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh rests in the city’s Old Town. Founded in 1124, this notable cathedral showcases plenty of history and is well worth visiting!

    view more information
  • St Mary's Cathedral Edinburgh Aerial View

    St Mary’s Cathedral Edinburgh

    Palmerston Place
    Edinburgh
    EH12 5AW

    0131 225 6293

    St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh is perched in the West End area of the city. Discover the Episcopal church through its music events, exhibitions and services.

    view more information
  • Steall Falls

    Steall Waterfall

    Old Military Rd
    Fort William
    PH33 6SY

    A short, simple and scenery-filled walk through Nevis Gorge brings you to the mesmerising Steall Waterfall, one of the highest single drop waterfalls in Scotland.

    view more information
  • Underground tunnel

    The Edinburgh Dungeon

    31 Market Street
    Edinburgh
    EH1 1DF

    01312401041

    Learn about Edinburgh’s sinister history with an immersive tour of The Edinburgh Dungeon. Suitable for children 8 years and above, this unique and eerie experience makes for a memorable activity for all!

    view more information
activityarrow_downarrow_leftsmall-rightarrow-top-rightbikeguidescamerachild-friendlycircularclockCottagecrossdangerdestinationpindownloaddropdown-arrowemailFamilyfinish-flagflagfloraflowergroupHeartinfo-altdidyouknowInspirationlinearlocationmap-pinmapparkingpawphonerulersearchshare Facebook Google Plus Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest Twitter YouTube ui-24px-glyph-2_grid-45popularsun-cloudtexturef-check-glyph-16toggleVideoWalkingwheelchair