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Top 15 Historical Places in Scotland to Visit for a Legendary Adventure

Last summer, I embarked on an epic road trip through Scotland with a foreign friend when, to my dismay, I took a wrong turn. Instead of arriving at our pre-booked Airbnb, we found ourselves inexplicably drawn to an ancient castle that could have stepped straight out of ‘Game of Thrones’.

We spent the remainder of the day there, immersing ourselves in the history and simply savouring the atmosphere. This unexpected encounter got me pondering – Scotland is brimming with historical gems just waiting to be unearthed (hopefully without the aid of a wrong turn!).

Whether you’re a dedicated history enthusiast or simply someone who occasionally stumbles upon remarkable places (like myself), Scotland is overflowing with sights that will leave you utterly speechless. And now that I’ve highlighted them for you, I do hope you’ll continue reading!

National Monument of Scotland

Website: https://ewh.org.uk/iconic-buildings-and-monuments/national-monument/ 

Address: Calton Hill, Edinburgh

Contact details: +44 300 123 6789

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Cost: Free entry

The National Monument of Scotland in Edinburgh is often called “Scotland’s Disgrace” because, well, it’s unfinished. They started building it to honour Scottish soldiers who died during the Napoleonic Wars, but they ran out of funds and never completed it.

Despite its half-finished state, the monument offers some incredible views over Edinburgh and makes for pretty neat photo ops! By the way, the monument is located on Calton Hill, which is a bit of a climb but totally worth it.

You get a panoramic view of the city, including sights like Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Palace. Plus, Calton Hill itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so there’s that extra layer of cool.

Pro tip: 
If you’re into sunsets, make sure to head up Calton Hill in the evening. The view at dusk is absolutely breathtaking, and it’s way less crowded, so you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Edinburgh Castle

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Website: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/ 

Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh

Contact details: +44 131 225 9846

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult (Ages 16 to 64) – £19.50
  • Concession (Ages 65+) – £15.50
  • Child (Ages 7 to 15) – £11.40
  • Ages under 7 – Free
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £38.50
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £56
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £66.50

Now, no list of Scotland’s historical places would be complete without mentioning Edinburgh Castle. Perched high on a volcanic rock, it’s a smorgasbord of history, with parts of the castle dating all the way back to the 12th century!

From the Scottish Crown Jewels to the Stone of Destiny, there’s just so much to see. Once you get in, make sure you check out the Great Hall, which is an architectural marvel in itself.

Then there’s St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh. The castle also houses the National War Museum of Scotland, so set aside some time to explore it fully.

Pro tip: 
Remember to buy your tickets online in advance to skip the long queues. And if you time your visit right, you can catch the firing of the One O’Clock Gun, a daily tradition except on Sundays.

Stirling Castle

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Website: https://www.stirlingcastle.scot/ 

Address: Castle Wynd, Edinburgh

Contact details: +44 1786 450000

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult (Ages 16 to 64) – £17.50
  • Concession (Ages 65+) – £14
  • Child (Ages 7 to 15) – £10.50
  • Ages under 7 – Free
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £34.50
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £50.50
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £60

Next, let’s talk about Stirling Castle, located between Edinburgh and Glasgow. It’s the place where several Scottish kings and queens were crowned, including Mary, Queen of Scots.

The castle sits on top of Castle Hill, offering some jaw-dropping views of the surrounding countryside. One of the must-see spots in the castle is the Royal Palace, which boasts some exquisitely restored Renaissance architecture.

The Great Hall is another highlight, having recently been returned to its original 16th-century splendor. And be sure to check out the tapestries—these are not your run-of-the-mill wall hangings but faithful recreations of 16th-century designs.

Pro tip: 
Make sure to join one of the guided tours. The guides are super knowledgeable and bring the castle’s history to life in a way that’s way more engaging than just reading plaques.

Urquhart Castle

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Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/urquhart-castle/ 

Address: Drumnadrochit, Inverness

Contact details: +44 145 645 0551

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult (Ages 16 to 64) – £13
  • Concession (Ages 65+) – £10.40
  • Child (Ages 7 to 15) – £7.80
  • Ages under 7 – Free
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £25.50
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £37.50
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £44.50

Nestled on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is arguably one of the most picturesque ruins in Scotland. Although it’s mostly in ruins thanks to centuries of skirmishes and battles, its strategic location offers some fantastic views of Loch Ness.

And who knows—maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness Monster! One of the coolest things to check out is the Grant Tower, which offers panoramic views of the loch and the Great Glen.

The castle also has a visitor centre that houses artefacts and tells the story of the castle through the ages.

Pro tip: 
Try to go early in the morning. The site gets a bit crowded as the day goes on, and an early start means you can have that majestic view almost to yourself.

Skara Brae

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Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/skara-brae/ 

Address: Sandwick, Stromness

Contact details: +44 185 684 1815

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult (Ages 16 to 64) – £9.00 – £11
  • Concession (Ages 65+) – £7.20 – £8.80
  • Child (Ages 7 to 15) – £5.40 – £6.60
  • Ages under 7 – Free
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £17.50 – £21.50
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £25.50 – £31.50
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £30.50 – £37.50

Skara Brae is located on Kirkwall Island in the Orkneys and is an amazingly well-preserved Neolithic village that’s older than the pyramids of Egypt! Seriously, anyone with even a shred of curiosity about prehistoric life absolutely needs to visit.

The site consists of eight stone houses, and you can actually walk through the ancient living spaces. You’ll find stone beds, dressers, and even a primitive drainage system.

The visitor centre is also fantastic, offering insights and artefacts from the daily lives of its ancient inhabitants.

Pro tip: 
Because it’s quite exposed and can get windy, dress warmly. Even in summer, the Orkneys can be chilly, and you don’t want the weather to ruin your trip.

Calanais Standing Stones

Media credit: ncetours

Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/calanais-standing-stones/ 

Address: Callanish, Isle of Lewis

Contact details: N/A

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Cost: Free to visit

The Calanais Standing Stones in the Outer Hebrides are something out of this world. They date back to 2900 BC, older than even Stonehenge, and are steeped in mystery and legend.

These standing stones are positioned in a circle with avenues of stones emanating from it, forming a cross-like layout. The site is thought to have been a focal point for ancient rituals and astronomical observations.

The interpretive panels around the site are very informative, making it easy to understand the significance of the stones and the landscape.

Pro tip: 
While you’re there, make sure to visit the nearby visitor centre, which provides fascinating insights into the history and archaeology of the stones. The centre also has a lovely little café and a gift shop stocked with local crafts and souvenirs.

Culloden Battlefield

Media credit: cullodenbattlefield

Website: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/culloden

Address: Culloden Moor, Inverness

Contact details: +44 1463 796090

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Cost: 

  • Adult – £14, £16 (Visitor centre + guided battlefield tour)
  • Family – £30, £42 (Visitor centre + guided battlefield tour)
  • Child – £11.50 (Visitor centre + guided battlefield tour)
  • One adult family – £25, £35 (Visitor centre + guided battlefield tour)
  • Concession – £11, £14.50 (Visitor centre + guided battlefield tour)
  • Young Scot – £1

Culloden Battlefield is a stirring place to visit, where the final Jacobite Rising met its bloody end in 1746. The battlefield is marked with memorial stones and flags indicating the positions of the opposing forces.

What’s more, there are several trails equipped with information boards that provide detailed accounts of the battle as you go. The visitor centre is top-notch with interactive exhibits and an immersive 360-degree battle experience.

You’ll learn about the events leading up to the battle, the key figures involved, and the aftermath. The centre also includes a well-stocked shop and a café, where you can get a bit of sustenance to fuel your explorations.

Pro tip: 
Don’t miss the rooftop viewing platform; it offers a sweeping view of the battlefield, putting the site’s immense scale into perspective.
Also, make sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.

Dunfermline Abbey and Palace

Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/dunfermline-abbey-and-palace/ 

Address: Dunfermline Abbey, St Margaret St, Dunfermline

Contact details: +44 138 373 9026

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: Free entry

Founded as a priory by Queen Margaret in the 11th century, Dunfermline Abbey and Palace became a prominent place of worship and the final resting place of many Scottish kings and queens, including Robert the Bruce. 

As you explore, you’ll come across the tomb of Robert the Bruce, whose heart is famously buried at Melrose Abbey. Right next door to the abbey is the palace, which was used by Scottish royalty as a place of residence.

Although now in ruins, walking through the remnants of the palace gives a real sense of the grandeur it once possessed. By the way, the gardens around the abbey are beautifully kept and perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.

Pro tip: 
Make sure to visit the on-site visitor centre that provides all the historical context you need. It also houses a gift shop and a cosy café where you can enjoy a coffee or a quick bite.

Battle of Bannockburn

Media credit: bannockburnnts

Website: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/bannockburn 

Address: Glasgow Road, Whins Of Milton, Stirling 

Contact details: +44178 681 2664

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM (Visitor Centre), Open 24 hours (the grounds)

Cost: (Battle of Bannockburn Experience)

  • Adult – £8.50
  • Family – £24
  • One adult family – £16
  • Concession – £7
  • Young Scot – £1

The Battle of Bannockburn site near Stirling stands as one of Scotland’s most historic spots, where Robert the Bruce’s forces famously defeated the English in 1314. The site is now home to a state-of-the-art visitor centre that brings the battle to life.

Indoor interactive exhibits and a 3D battle map presentation make it easy to grasp the strategies and stakes involved during those pivotal two days. Outside, you can wander the battlefield itself, dotted with plaques guiding you through the sequence of events.

Another highlight has to be the iconic statue of Robert the Bruce on horseback—it’s a powerful homage to the Scottish victory. The surrounding landscape is beautiful, and there are plenty of spots to sit and reflect on the significance of the location.

Pro tip: 
If you’re visiting with family or friends, the battle experience interactive area is a must-do where you can command your own army and see if you can replicate Bruce’s success.
The best time to visit is during the annual Bannockburn Live event, which features reenactments, live music, and mediaeval-themed activities.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Media credit: b3thtravels

Website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/palace-of-holyroodhouse 

Address: Canongate

Contact details: +44 303 123 7306

Operating hours: 

  • Monday, Thursday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult – £25 (Same day purchase), £21 (Advance booking)
  • Young person (ages 18 to 24) – £13.50 (Same day purchase), £16.50 (Advance booking)
  • Child (ages 5 to 17)/Disabled person – £10.50 (Same day purchase), £12.50 (Advance booking)
  • Ages 5 and under – Free

Palace of Holyroodhouse, is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful landmarks. The palace has seen the tumultuous events of Mary, Queen of Scots’ tragic life and the grandeur of modern-day royal visits.

The State Apartments are immaculately preserved and adorned with stunning tapestries, fine art, and antique furniture. The Great Gallery, in particular, is a must-see with its impressive collection of Jacob de Wet’s paintings of Scottish monarchs.

The palace grounds include the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, an atmospheric relic that was once one of Scotland’s most important mediaeval churches. Moreover, the visitor centre offers a comprehensive audio guide that leads you through each room.

Pro tip: 
If you’re visiting in the summer, time your visit to coincide with the Queen’s Gallery exhibitions, showcasing rotating displays from the extensive Royal Collection.
There’s also an excellent gift shop perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and a lovely café where you can relax with a view of the palace grounds.

Balmoral Castle

Media credit: thelechom

Website: https://www.balmoralcastle.com/index.html 

Address: Balmoral Estates, Ballater

Contact details: +44 133 974 2534

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult – £17.50
  • Child – £6.50
  • Family –  £39.95 (price is inclusive of audio guide)

Nestled in the heart of Aberdeenshire, Balmoral Castle is the summer residence of the British royal family. The estate covers a whopping 50,000 acres with some of the most breathtaking landscapes you’ll ever lay your eyes on.

You can explore well-marked trails, perfect for stretching your legs while taking in the surroundings. Inside the castle, the ballroom is open to visitors, and it hosts exhibitions, royal photographs, and even unique mementos from the time of Queen Victoria.

There’s also a lovely gift shop and café where you can pick up some tasteful souvenirs or grab a bite. It’s all set up to ensure you have a pleasant visit, with maps and guided tours available to maximise your experience.

Pro tip: 
Aim to visit during the summer months when the dainty gardens are in full bloom. They’re a sight to behold, and the surrounding Cairngorms are extra stunning around this time, too.
Also, book your tickets in advance; it gets busy since everyone wants a slice of that royal allure.

Iona Abbey

Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/iona-abbey-and-nunnery/ 

Address: Isle of Iona 

Contact details: +44 168 170 0512

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult (Ages 16 to 64) – £10
  • Concession (Ages 65+) – £8
  • Child (Ages 7 to 15) – £6
  • Ages under 7 – Free
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £20
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £29
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £34

Iona Abbey is perched on the tiny island of Iona, just off the west coast of Scotland. Going here, you’ll take a short ferry ride from the Isle of Mull to get there, which is an adventure in itself with those scenic sea views.

It’s one of the oldest and most significant religious centres in Western Europe, founded by St. Columba in 563 AD. Take your time to explore the abbey’s architecture and its surrounding cemetery, rumoured to be the resting place of several early Scottish kings.

Don’t resist the pull of the long sandy beaches either, which are scattered with silvery shells and utterly serene. The nearby Heritage Centre is also worth a quick stop; it gives great context to what you’re seeing, all compiled neatly within its exhibits.

Pro tip: 
Given the ferry schedule and the island’s popularity, consider an early start to avoid the crowds.
It’s wise to pack snacks or a picnic to enjoy down by the beach; you won’t find expansive dining options on this quaint island, and those views add so much flavour to your meal anyway!

Glenfinnan Monument – National Trust for Scotland

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Website: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/glenfinnan-monument 

Address: Glenfinnan, Lochaber

Contact details: +44 139 772 2250

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost:

  • Adult – £5.50
  • Concession/Child – £4
  • Family – £13
  • One adult family – £8
  • Young Scot – £1

Glenfinnan Monument stands tall and proud, just a stone’s throw from Loch Shiel, and it’s a profound symbol of the Jacobite uprisings. Erected in 1815, this 18-meter statue captures the spirit of the Highlanders who’ve come and gone before.

The surroundings are exceptional, especially with the Glenfinnan Viaduct nearby—you know, that iconic bridge from the Harry Potter films. You can spot the Hogwarts Express (actually the Jacobite steam train) crossing during the summer months.

There’s an informative visitor centre to complement your exploration, offering insights on Jacobite history with interactive displays. And for those who want to amp up the experience, a trove of scenic walking trails are waiting to be conquered around the area.

Pro tip: 
Don’t forget to check the train timetable if you want to see the steam train on the viaduct—it’s a crowd favorite! Also, you can cosy up with a hot drink from the café afterward.

Melrose Abbey

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Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/melrose-abbey/ 

Address: Abbey St, Melrose

Contact details: +44 189 682 2562

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult (Ages 16 to 64) – £7.50
  • Concession (Ages 65+) – £6
  • Child (Ages 7 to 15) – £4.50
  • Ages under 7 – Free
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £15
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £21.50
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £25.50

Melrose Abbey dates back to 1136 and was the Cistercian monks’ first in Scotland. What remains today is still pretty spectacular—it’s said to contain the heart of Robert the Bruce, and you can spend hours wandering the intricate ruins.

As you meander around, keep an eye out for quirky carvings like the famous bagpipe-playing pig—it’s as intriguing as it sounds! The abbey museum, housed in the Commendator’s House, is fantastic for digging deeper into the history.

Plus, don’t miss climbing to the top of the tower for a breathtaking view of the Borders’ landscape. It’s an easy way to feel on top of the world, metaphorically speaking.

Pro tip: 
The Borders region has a lot to offer, so if you have some time, explore nearby attractions like Abbotsford House. Buy a combination ticket to save a few quid on entrance fees if you’re planning to explore more than just the abbey!

Inveraray Castle

Media credit: inveraray_castle

Website: https://www.inveraray-castle.com/ 

Address: Inveraray

Contact details: +44 149 930 2203

Operating hours: 

  • (temporarily closed until March 27, 2025 )

Cost: 

  • Adult – £18
  • Student/Senior (60+ years) – £15
  • Child (ages 5 to 15) – £12
  • Ages under 5 – Free
  • Family (2 adults + 3 children) – £60
  • Private Tour Guide – £60

Inveraray Castle, with its fairy-tale towers, is a real Scottish charmer located on the shores of Loch Fyne. It’s the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll and offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past.

The castle has a distinctive look, and once you take the guided tour, you’ll appreciate the rich family history. Inside, opulent rooms are filled with antique furniture, tapestries, and a brilliant collection of weaponry.

Beyond its impressive interiors, the castle grounds are yours to explore. There’s a copse of woodland trails perfect for leisurely walks, and you’re likely to spot some local fauna if you’re lucky.

Pro tip: 
Inveraray doesn’t just stop at historical allure; it comes with a well-stocked tearoom where you can enjoy a fine spread of pastries and traditional Scottish fare.
Don’t forget to check out the nearby Inveraray Jail—a museum where you can experience 19th-century prison life. It’s just a short walk from the castle, and joint tickets are often available.

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