Walking in Scotland

August 2016

Edinburgh Castle and the Balmoral Hotel clocktower at sunrise

Why explore Scotland? We can think of a few good reasons – several in fact! Pay a visit to the nation’s seven cities and experience the unique character and diverse range of attractions of each.

Edinburgh
The nation’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edinburgh is set against a dramatic backdrop of ancient crags with its iconic castle at its centre. Steeped in history and culture, discover the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Michelin star restaurants, outstanding museums and acres of lush greenery.
Get a 360° view of Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle.

Glasgow
Scotland’s largest city is an architectural mélange on the banks of the River Clyde. Experience the best shopping in the UK outside of London, from designer labels to vintage boutiques, enjoy exquisite dining, cultural landmarks like the Kelvingrove, and a concert or show in the evening.

Looking east, the Clyde Auditorium,
familiarly known as "The Armadillo", Bells Bridge,
the Stobcross Crane / Finnieston Crand and the Clyde Arc,
connecting the Southside of Glasgow to the city centre

Dundee
Dundee is proof great things come in small packages. A UNESCO City of Design, Dundee has a plethora of contemporary galleries, shops, theatres and cultural hubs. Visit the RRS Discovery and the McManus Galleries, and enjoy the simple pleasure of walking, to the top of the Dundee Law or on a stroll along Broughty Ferry Beach.

Desperate Dan statue opposite city square

Stirling
With a crag-top castle at its heart, Stirling may appear like a miniature Edinburgh, but punches well above its weight when it comes to history, shopping, eating out and scenic beauty. Reach the top of the National Wallace Monument, step back in time at Stirling Castle and wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town.

Stirling town centre

Perth
The ‘Fair City’ of Perth is a highly walkable former capital home to unique attractions like the Fergusson Gallery and the Black Watch Castle and Museum, as well as wonderful cafés, bistros and pubs. On its outskirts lies the magnificent Scone Palace and exotic Branklyn Garden.

Looking toward St Matthew's Church
on the shore of the River Tay, Perth

Aberdeen
Scotland’s ‘Granite City’ is richly cultured and boasts an enviable array of attractions, from high-end restaurants and gleaning shopping plazas to a thriving culinary scene. Stroll along the beach and explore the nearby Cairngorms National Park and Scotland’s Castle Trail.

Union Terrace Gardens

Inverness
Experience a city break with the Scottish Highlands right on your doorstep. Peruse contemporary galleries and the Victorian Market, admire the grandiose St Andrew’s Cathedral and stroll along the River Ness. You can also venture further afield to Culloden Battlefield, Nairn and Loch Ness.

The view down the River Ness running
through the city centre of Inverness,
from the grounds of Inverness Castle, Highlands of Scotland.

Take a look at the VisitScotland blog for news and travel inspiration and join our brand-new Scotland’s Community. It’s brilliant online forum where members can share their stories and ask advice about visiting and exploring Scotland. We can’t wait to see you there.

For more articles on Scotland click here

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