Scotland is as varied and diverse a country as you could possibly imagine, covering the northern third of the United Kingdom. It borders England in the south east and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west, the North Sea to the north east, and the Irish Sea to the south. It has more than 790 islands, and its population is largely concentrated in what is called the Central Belt, which also contains the capital city of Edinburgh.
Containing staggering mountains, called Munros, with heights over 3,000 feet (914.4 m), it’s a climber’s paradise. Munros are named after Sir Hugh Munro, 4th Baronet (1856–1919), who produced the first list of such hills. The best-known Munro is Ben Nevis. It’s the highest mountain in the British Isles at a staggering 4,411 feet (1,345 m).
Scotland is also home to Gretna Green, the historic village of clandestine weddings. Just over the Scottish border from England in Dumfries and Galloway, and just off the A74(M), it’s steeped in history, tales and romantic folklore. Together with the village’s original Blacksmiths Shop’ being in situ has kept Gretna Green to this day the marriage capital of the UK and over 5,000 marriages still taking place there yearly.
The Scottish scenery is dramatic and rugged, and you’ll find all sorts of accommodation that make the most of it. One such place is The Allan Ramsay pub, nestled within the beautiful village of Carlops, Penicuik. It’s just 20 minutes away from Edinburgh but far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.
There are plenty of options for a hike or tour, and our authors have provided inspiration for places to stay and eat in Scotland, as well as inspiring places to visit, from walking Rob Roy’s Way to kayaking on Loch Lomond. Or maybe a visit to the Kelpies is what you’re looking for.
The Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculpture, is based in Falkirk, Scotland. Standing at 30m high, the two horse head sculptures rise high into the sky and dominate the local landscape.
From historic places, such as the lovely Edinburgh city to rural locations to explore, Scotland has it all.
Overlooking the Solway Coast, Balcary Cliffs look spectacular in every season. A walk along these clifftops is exhilarating and provides incredible views that are not easily forgotten. Beginning and ending at Balcary Bay, near Auchencairn…
Castle Creavie Farm is one of the most special places I have ever stayed. The Galloway area is too often overlooked as a destination but I can honestly say that for me it is one…
Away to the east of the splendours of Edinburgh, north of the Firth of Forth, runs a coastline full of interest, not least the name, the East Neuk of Fife (Neuk means corner). A well-signposted…
Before starting the description of the walk, I want to say a little about “Munros” and “Bagging Munros” A Munro is a Scottish mountain with an elevation of more than 3,000 feet (914 metres), and…
I am back home in Scotland for a few weeks to my old town, so I thought I would write a wee article for those of you who might want to visit this historic place…
A couple of months ago I started looking at some of the brilliant long distance paths we have in the UK. I settled on the WHW for my first attempt at a solo, multiday hike…
The beautiful little village of Carlops is situated beneath the Pentland Hills, Scotland, and is a perfect spot to start a whole variety of walks from. Hills, rivers, woodlands and hidden beauty spots surround the…
Lockerbie, a gateway to Scotland and a gateway to the beautiful Dumfries and Galloway. The Best Western Dryfesdale Country House Hotel was a unique find I must say. Set in a glorious location with views…
The Allan Ramsay pub is nestled within the beautiful village of Carlops, Penicuik. Just 20 minutes away from Edinburgh but you feel so far removed here from the hustle and bustle of any big place….
The Auldgirth Inn is situated just a few miles away from Dumfries, just off the A74 and situated beautifully within the green hills of the Nith Valley. This was going to be a stay full…
The Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculpture, is based in Falkirk, Scotland. Standing at 30m high the two horse head sculptures rise high in the sky and dominate the local landscape. I have seen so…
It was about time I headed back up to Scotland for some travel. A whistle stop tour of hotels and areas I have not been to enough. The first stop was to be Falkirk and…