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Top 10 things to do when you visit Scotland
With a rich history, breath-taking landscape and a warm welcome, Scotland hosts a wealth of experiences and adventures to embark upon. Here we recommend 10 highlights for you to enjoy:
1. Hill walk an extinct volcano in Edinburgh
Looming 250.5m over the city, Arthur's peak offers exceptional panoramic views over the city of Edinburgh as well as over-looking Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town and the New Town. Aged 350 million years old it has surely earned itself a visit!
2. Edinburgh Castle
Carry on a mile east of Arthur's seat and you will be greeted by the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle, which is perched on an extinct volcano and dominates the skyline of Edinburgh. Dating back to the 9th century BC, the castle is a powerful representation of Scotland's story and hosts an abundance of charms. This is only an appetiser for what awaits you at Edinburgh Castle.
3. Edinburgh dungeon
'Awesome',' excellent' and 'magical' are just a few of the words which have been used to describe the Edinburgh dungeons. History determines the facts but the actors bring them to life, you will meet ghosts, cannibals and grave-snatchers, witness the drawing and quartering of William Wallace and the hangings at the Grassmarket.
Tip - Restaurants in Edinburgh offer great diversity and are home to some of the best curry houses in the UK. After a long day sightseeing there is nothing better than a hearty evening meal. Plan, and book ahead to avoid disappointment. Find a restaurant voucher for one of the top restaurants and you will save yourself a lot of money.
4. Experience rural Scotland in Glencoe
Its natural heritage will inspire you and cultural heritage fascinate you, one of the most famous and scenic Scottish Glens is just two hours away from central Scotland. Renowned for its stunning landscapes with rolling hills, high mountain peaks, rivers and waterfalls as well as being home to a rich and diverse range of habitats.
5. Scuba dive in the Scapa lochs
Whether you are a beginner or pro, the Scala lochs are increasingly popular for recreational scuba divers. It has a reputation for being one of the top dive sights and boasts numerous German shipwrecks left behind from World War 1. It has a dive depth of only 15 meters and offers excellent visibility.
6. Take a cruise on the River Clyde, Glasgow
Although you could have waded across it yourself prior to the late 1700's, you will now have to settle for a relaxing cruise instead. This 20km cruise on the River Clyde indulges you with some of Scotland's most popular riverside visitor attractions and entertains your curiosity with the history of Glasgow's industrial past.
7. Visit the oldest house in Glasgow
Built in 1471 for the chaplain of St Nicholas Hospital, Provand's Lordship was Glasgow's only medieval building to avoid the wrecking ball. Now a museum, it will take you from 16th-century furnishings to a 20th-century sweet shop, allowing you to see period details up close.
Tip - Shopping in Glasgow is some of the best you will find in the UK. Plan ahead and look online for discount deals. Voucher shopping ahead of you visit will save you fancy some retail therapy.
8. Hunt the Lochness Monster
A trip to Scotland would not be complete without trying to get a glimpse of the Lochness monster. However even if you don't manage a glimpse, Lochness is still worth a visit, the loch is Scotland's deepest at 230 metres (754 feet) at its deepest point. It is surrounded by stunning hills and majestic mountains and home to the historical site of Urquhart Castle and the Lochness Exhibition Centre.
9. Discover the northern lights
Tainted with the air of mystery surrounding the Lochness monster, you will be more gratified in that Scotland is also home to a more authentic mystery, the northern lights. Visible since the earth began these "Aurora Borealis" are seen in the more northern regions of Scotland in the late autumn months and are definitely worth a glance.
10. Attend the Highland games
If you are visiting Scotland between spring to Autumn, the highland games are a must see. The events range from hammer throwing to tug of war and engage a wonderful atmosphere and remain popular with visitors and visitors alike having become a sporting and social event.
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