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…

  • 1-11 Charlotte Square including Georgian House
    Image Credits: Mike Shaw - CC BY-SA 4.0

    The Georgian House

    7 Charlotte Square
    Edinburgh
    EH2 4DR

    01312252160

    The Georgian House is a National Trust for Scotland property resting in New Town’s centre. Children under the age of five can visit for free, making it a great attraction for history-loving families!

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  • Ghost Bus Tours
    Image Credits: Ian Wright - CC BY-SA 2.0

    The Ghost Bus Tours Edinburgh

    Deacon Brodies Tavern
    Lawnmarket, outside Heritage of Scotland
    Edinburgh
    EH1 2PH

    0844 567 8666

    There is no better Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tour than the one on offer at this sightseeing company! Prepare for a frightening ride past the city’s major attractions, all the while learning about its haunted past.

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  • The Hill House

    Upper Colquhoun St
    Helensburgh
    G84 9AJ

    01436 673900

    Magnificently restored from Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s bespoke mansion and surrounded by glorious formal gardens, The Hill House sits proudly on the southern edge of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and is owned by the National Trust.

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  • Shadowed figure walking up spooky alleyway at night

    The Real Mary King’s Close

    The Real King Mary's Close
    2 Warriston's Close
    High Street
    Edinburgh
    EH1 1PG

    Resting in Old Town is the immersive and haunted attraction of The Real Mary King’s Close. This engaging experience is suitable for ages five and above, making it great for families wanting to unveil the close’s past.

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  • Royal Mile Edinburgh

    The Royal Mile

    109 The Royal Mile
    Royal Mile
    Edinburgh
    EH1 1SG

    Known as the ‘backbone of the city’s Old Town’, The Royal Mile is one for your Edinburgh itinerary! A royal procession route, the area hosts many historic buildings and landmarks along with a unique array of shops and eateries.

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  • microphone at a show

    The Stand Comedy Club

    5 York Pl
    Edinburgh
    EH1 3EB

    0131 558 7272

    This comedy venue is where you can enjoy live stand up from a variety of local and visiting acts. Suitable for over-18s only, The Stand Comedy Club is the perfect stop for a night out!

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  • The Storr

    The Storr

    IV51 9HX

    Perhaps the most idyllic walk on the island, the summit of which is the highest point of the Trotternish Ridge, The Storr offers breath-taking, panoramic views of the Isle of Skye below.

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  • Threave Castle
    Image credits: Otter - (CC BY-SA 3.0)

    Threave Castle

    Castle Douglas
    Dumfries
    DG7 1TJ

    07711 223101

    Threave Castle boasts the stunning remains of the island fortress built in 1369. Encompassed by the River Dee, you can access the castle by taking a short boat trip from Castle Douglas.  

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  • Trout Salmon Fishing in Scotland

    Trout and Salmon Fishing in Scotland

    A comprehensive guide to game fishing in Scotland, featuring maps and information on the major Scottish salmon and sea-trout rivers and the top wild brown trout fishing locations, together with complementary articles and information on tackle shops, fishing clubs, tackle and techniques etc.

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  • Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness

    Urquhart Castle

    Drumnadrochit
    Inverness
    IV63 6XJ

    01456 450551

    Urquhart Castle dramatically overlooks the famous Loch Ness. what better place to embark on a quest to find the Loch Ness Monster than from these beautiful 16th-century ruins?

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