Things to see and do United Kingdom

Created in 1840, by the brothers John and James Grant, the distillery is born in a perfect frame to produce an exceptional base for its whisky, thanks to quality ingredients and also thanks to the river Spey, which runs along the family structure. The distillery is open to the public, with a visitor centre and guided tours. Stroll through the beautiful Victorian garden, restored to its former glory, and smell the hidden scents of single malt...

No need to go all the way to Scandinavia to get close to the reindeer! The ticket for the visitor centre includes the exhibition and the approach of a few deer in the enclosure, but you will have to follow one of the daily visits to venture out to meet the herds on the hills. If we forget everything once we are with the reindeer, busy feeding them, we still have to take into account that the "hill trip" is done in large groups (sometimes 80 people) and that you have to be in the queue as soon as the centre opens to get your place.

See also the site: www.fairisle.org.uk

The ornithological wealth of Fair Isle is exceptional: 350 species were observed on this ocean reduction. Like any rocky island in the North Atlantic, Fair Isle is home to many seabirds: over 20 000 puffin nest at the top of the cliffs, while the interior of the island is occupied by beautiful colonies of Arctic terns. It has a sub-species of caves found nowhere else, distinct from the endemic Shetland subspecies.

But Fair Isle is especially famous because it attracts a very large number of migrants, unusual or even lost from everywhere: North America, Siberia, etc. Bird traps, harmless, have been installed to identify rare species, which are observed especially during migration.

Even in summer, small passereaux can be captured, such as a crimson finches from Lapland, or a croisé of trees that live commonly in coniferous forests, particularly in the Alps. In summer, the breeding bird banding, young and adult of all species, is the main activity of a day at Fair Isle. The operation consists of capturing the bird, by means of a net, if it is an adult capable of flying and passing around a small ring of metal with the registration to identify it. Nearly 250 000 birds with more than 250 species were banded to Fair isle.

Fair Isle is also renowned for the traditional manufacture of wool sweaters among the most beautiful in the Shetland.

BrewDog is now one of the most important references in the beer business. An artisanal brewery with punk claims, independent, modern and in full growth, it has been able to make itself appreciated for the quality of its beers and the vast choice it offers. While in Ellon, take the opportunity to visit one of its production sites (and its headquarters) on a guided tour. You can also simply enjoy the bar on site, have a bite to eat while tasting a beer produced on site, and find unusual goodies in the brand's shop.

On June 24, 1314, the forces of Robert the Bruce defeated the English troops of Edward II here in the First War of Independence. At that time, Stirling Castle was held by England, and the Scottish King's brother Edward II held it under siege. He concluded with his enemies that if they were not rescued before mid-summer, they would give up the stronghold, the gateway to the Highlands, to him. London, unable to ignore this agreement, marched its men north. The Scots, one against two or three, managed to win the victory after two days, despite their numerical and material inferiority. This success opened the way for military raids to the south and put an end to the first conflicts of independence. The discovery centre that now occupies the site offers an immersion in this key moment in national history. Thanks to its 3D technologies and interactive imagery, it recreates the conditions of the battle. Immersion is total! And it's fun too: you can take control of your virtual battlefield and try to recreate the battle... The winner will remain, in any case, the valiant Bruce! The attraction has been awarded several times for its educational and innovative character, which involves visitors in the story, making it more alive than ever. Outside, don't miss the statue of King Robert and discover the place where Robert the Bruce raised his standard.

Don't think it's the church of the Holy Evil! Here, rough comes from the Scottish rood, which means cross, as in Holyrood Abbey. Founded in the 12th century, the building that stands here today dates from the 15th century, making it the oldest in the city after the castle. James VI was crowned by John Knox in 1587 and its characteristics are magnificent. The organ, first of all, but also the medieval wooden roof, the stunning stained glass windows and the imposing pillars. A little piece of history worth a look.

Overlooking the cliffs and the sea, the castle of St Andrews was first built in the 12th century and for a long time hosted the city's bishops. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The version we see today is the work of Bishop Walter Trail (1400). Parts of it were used as a prison. He also saw monarchs pass through, since James I received part of his education there. James III may even have been born there. The Reformation overcame his religious function, and then quickly overcame his condition once he was abandoned.

Some would have been offended if St Andrews had not had a museum dedicated to its star sport. It reopened in 2015, at the 144th Open, after some work. More than 500 years of history are told and there is the largest collection of objects related to the discipline in Europe. Clubs, balls, trophies, medals, decorative arts, films, photographs and archives follow one another to reveal all the secrets of golf, to the layman and the unconditional. There is also a brand new café on site.

The St Andrews Botanic Garden is considered to be the living treasure of this small city with an immense heritage. More than 8,000 varieties of plants and flowers of all kinds live there. Some are native to Scotland, but the majority come from the rest of the world. Each season offers a different approach. Explanatory panels, ideas for walks through the flowers and a visit to the botanical greenhouses enhance the visit. Between April and September, you can discover the Butterfly House (extra charge for admission) or the Tropical Butterfly Experience.

Dating from the 18th century, this former fisherman's shack is the birthplace of Arthur Anderson, the founder of P&O Ferries. It has been extensively refurbished and now houses the Shetland Textile Museum, which tells the story of this key industry in Shetland, with a collection of some 500 pieces and frequent demonstrations. You will see Fair Isle knitwear, Shetland lace, Shetland Taatit rugs and woven tweed, as well as tools. Papers and patterns are kept in the collection, with pieces dating back to 1870.

Located in Kirkwall, Scotland, the VisitScotland Kirkwall iCentre is a tourist office offering a wealth of information on the town and surrounding area.

This tour is particularly informative as it tells the maritime and natural history of the Orkney Islands, with a particular interest in the whaling industry, the Hudson Bay Company, and the German fleet sunk at Scapa Flow in 1919. In the summer, temporary exhibits are also programmed. The discovery of this museum allows a better understanding of the history and heritage of this part of Orkney. If you are passionate about archaeology, you should know that this museum gathers a large number of objects of international importance.

Founded in 1798, Highland Park is the northernmost distillery of Scotland, just overtaking Scapa! It has won the San Francisco World Spirit Competition several times, which brings together experts from all over the world. This is where it gets its slogan "Best spirit in the World", and we can't say that it has really usurped it... Its flagship single malt, the 12 year old, exudes notes of honey, heather, and spices, with a background of Orkney peat. The one-hour tour is very complete and ends with a tasting.

Inverawe has many attractions. There's something magical about the road alone! Once your vehicle is parked, several choices are available according to your desires: discover, through the museum area, how salmon are smoked, learn about fishing techniques, go for a walk following the proposed circuits (short walks) or taste smoked salmon on the spot in the café and shop area. In any case, don't leave on an empty stomach, it would be a shame!

The astonishing McCaig's Tower is Oban's most famous monument. Sitting atop the town on Battery Hill, its 92m circumference is reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum, which was its main source of inspiration. We owe this surprising project to John Stuart McCaig, a philanthropic banker concerned about his posterity and the fate of local masons in need of work. He himself drew the plans, which were implemented between 1897 and 1902, the year of his death. The climb is a bit steep, but worth a little effort for the magnificent view of the bay.

Crarae Garden is considered to be the finest example of a Himalayan style garden in Britain. Here you won't see the yeti, but exceptional tree varieties, as well as brilliant azaleas and rhododendrons. The garden takes shape between gorges, valleys, waterfalls and cliffs, for a peaceful and dreamlike stroll, in an astonishingly colourful and exotic elsewhere. The fauna is also rich and, with a bit of luck, you will see red squirrels, deer, woodpeckers, buzzards or peregrine falcons.

Discover here the most beautiful set of bells in Scotland (there are 10 of them) and the second largest collection in the world (by weight). You can discover the bell ringers as well as the mechanisms of the bells. On the ground floor, a free exhibition tells the story of the bells, cast in 1920, of their ringing and reveals their little names. It is possible to climb the 176 steps of the spiral staircase to gain height on Inveraray and admire the magnificent carillon, as well as the panoramic view of the mountains and Loch Fyne.

This walk along the canal is really a classic of the region. It is recommended to take a bus from Lochgilphead to Coe and lunch on the charming bay that are small sailboats are before walking back to Lochgilphead. You can pass through the lovely villages of Bellanoch and Cairnbaan. Offering possible stops, they make the journey comfortable, not requiring any exceptional physical fitness. Just the taste of the walk! To the north of Bellanoch, on the canal, is Dunadd. This former siege of the kings of Dalriada dates back to 500 BC, a wild boar carved on the rock, emblem of the Campbell of Argyll family, and a deep mark that has the shape of a foot. According to historians, kings lay their feet here when they were crowning by praising them with water. Judging by the size of this footprint, the men of the time were to be smaller than today…

This lively and colorful attraction was developed in a former prison built in 1819. Thanks to actors in costume and a staging faithful to reality, one is immersed in the daily life of the prisoners, from their trial to the cells. Attention is paid to every detail and one is not left indifferent to the stories of torture and forced labor. Many men were subjected to it, but also women and children. The audio guide is included in the entrance fee, and there is a French version of the guided tour.

In a breathtaking environment, the Bunnahabhain distillery (the bh is pronounced v) is isolated in the north of the island, facing the Jura mountains. It opened its doors in 1881. Its whisky is much sweeter than the one of its neighbours, and uses very little, if any, peated malt. The 12-year-old is light, fresh, with a fragrance of spray and nuts. The single visit lasts about 1 hour, but there is a shorter, faster version for those in a hurry. The visit program is to be consulted on the distillery's website.

Opened in 2000, the Arran brewery quickly made a place for itself in the hearts of beer lovers. You can now drink his achievements all over the country and discover his production site here. Visits take place only twice a day and last on average 45 minutes. They allow you to see the manufacturing process and end with a tasting session. If you're short of time, you can always drop by the shop and visitor centre, created to allow you to discover the art of brewing through observation windows.

This 13th century colossus is not lacking in singularity with its circular plan, its four massive towers and its high walls surrounded by water. Now partly in ruins, it was one of the residences of choice of the Stuart kings. It had an eventful fate during the Wars of Independence and the Three Kingdoms War, as it was regularly moved from one camp to another. After falling into oblivion, it underwent major restoration in the 19th century and is now open to the public. The Bute Museum, next door, also looks back on its history.

Bowmore is the mother of the Islay distilleries. Created in 1779, it is the oldest distillery on the island and remains the heart of the eponymous village. With a beautiful setting on the edge of Loch Indaal, the single visit lasts 1 hour and allows you to explore the entire production site before ending with a triple tasting: three samples of Bowmore whiskies, in the tasting room, with a spectacular view of Loch Indaal. You even leave with your tasting glass bearing the distillery's logo. Other tours offer cask tasting.

It is the westernmost distillery of the south coast, founded and marketed in 1815 by local farmers and master distiller John MacDougall. Today in continuous expansion, it has kept its traditional methods and reveals them to enthusiasts. The classic tour lasts 45 minutes, but there are longer options. Their standard-bearer is the 10-year-old, a very peaty, iodized single malt with hints of citrus fruits and cereals. The Old Kiln Café on the premises cooks up some good food for the lunch break.

This is the home of the single malt of the Isle of Arran; true island pride. You can appreciate the principles of its elaboration during a 45-minute visit, punctuated by two tastings: a cream of whisky liqueur and the very popular 14 year old. The latter is 46% and has round and fruity aromas. Good plan: the "drop inn tour" for an express discovery (film) with tasting. There is also a café on site for a drink or a bite to eat.

874 m. Not to notice this mountain from the port entrance, whose trim contours and the tip of snow give its full appearance to the bay of Brodick. About 5 hours are counted for his ascent from Cladach. At its summit, there is a remarkable panoramic view of the Firth of Clyde.

All the secrets of the fascinating island of Arran are told here for the curious who wish to learn more about the island culture, through archaeology, but also social history. A Bronze Age tomb, a replica Viking ship, reproductions of period interiors, costumes, photographs and videos bring the local heritage back to life, whether it is from 3,000 years ago or the last century. There's a coffee shop on the premises. Events are organized there every year: motorcycle and tractor show, handicraft day, children's day...

This is the name of the small mountain next to the castle. A short and easy walk leads to its summit, which offers a superb view of the loch and its surroundings.

What better to discover the Loch Lomond than a cruise? At the beginning of Balloch, Sweeney's Cruises lift anchors for several times on the waves of varied durations, as well as the Balloch-Luss and Luss-Balmaha shuttles. The 1 h Experience Cruise is the only one that works every day of the year, while others are sometimes reduced to weekends and off-season holidays. Check out the online planners.

The famous aquarium chain has an attraction as far as Loch Lomond, with this marine sanctuary of some 1,500 aquatic animals. Through seven themed zones, you can encounter turtles, sharks, octopuses, rays, seahorses, colourful fish and many more. You can also see otters and stroke starfish. It is even possible, upon reservation, to feed the sharks, or to spend a night in the aquarium.

People come to Dean Castle both for its beautiful 80-hectare park, which is very popular with families, and for its old ^14th-century walls. Home to the Boyd family, it contains interesting collections of weapons, armor, tapestries and musical instruments. Ideal for a bucolic and historical outing. There is a tearoom at the visitor center. Between the visit of the castle, the walks in the immense park, the Adventure Play Space for the children and the animal farm, one can easily spend the day there.

Built in the late 16th century, this castle in the heart of Kirkcudbright was the residence of the MacLellan family until the 18th century, when it passed into the hands of the Earl of Selkirk. Now maintained by Historic Scotland, its ruins show the living conditions of the servants in the basement, as well as the curious Laird's Lug, a secret hole in the chimney from which guests were spied on... Take advantage of your visit to extend it by discovering Greyfriars church, which houses the memorial to Sir Thomas & Lady Grissel macLellan.

Built in 1734, this house was home to the artist E.A. Hornel from 1901 to 1933. E.A. Hornel was a member of theGlasgow Boys, many of his works are on display here, as well as pottery, ceramics, sculptures, bronzes and furniture from his acolytes. The house and studio are in Edwardian style. The library is probably the most beautiful room - he was a passionate collector - and the Japanese gardens are also worth a visit.

On an island in the middle of the River Dee, this keep was built in the 14th century by Archibald the Grim, Lord of Galloway. Besieged by James II in 1455, its 30 m high walls are still impressive, despite the damage inflicted by time. To reach it, you have to park at Kelton Mains farm and walk 800 m to the landing stage. There you will use a bell to be picked up, don't hesitate to call if you have any problems. Please note, however, that the conditions of transport are not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Once a town hall, a court, then a prison, Kirkcudbright's Tolbooth is now the artistic lung of this city so attached to culture. Several local artists are exhibited there, such as E.A. Hornel, Jessie M. King, E.A. Taylor, Charles Oppenheimer, or the watercolourists S.J. Peploe and David Gauld. The top floor hosts a revolving program of contemporary art and crafts from the region and around the world. Coffee, with its delicious pastries, is one of the assets of this unusual place.

On the long peninsula of the Rhine of Galloway is also this botanical garden, a branch of the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh. It was born thanks to the Golf Stream that blows on the southern tip of Scotland. Its exoticism is unique in the country and it hosts many species from the southern hemisphere. It has a real tropical paradise feel that will surprise many, just a few steps from the cliffs shaken by the Irish Sea. The colorful walled garden and palm trees provide a complete change of scenery.

The Highlands were long a land of agriculture where ranching and farming families lived in small communities called townships . In the ^nineteenth century, the Highland Clearances wiped out many of these communities, so that by 1850, most had disappeared. Those that survived mutated with new technologies and the Industrial Revolution. Here in Auchindrain, the change was much less noticeable than elsewhere and the area was preserved in its original form. A real trip back in time!

A discrete, tree-lined bay that deserves to be mentioned for its great beauty.

Situated between Balmaha and Rowardennan, it offers a particularly soothing setting to take on its breath between two hikes. It is also possible to camp in the surroundings.

You can spend a whole afternoon on the banks of this absolutely beautiful loch north of Aberfoyle (follow the A821) for a walk or a picnic. It's a time to relax and enjoy the view of the clear water reflected in the wooded hills. It was the inspiration for Walter Scott's poem, The Lady of the Lake.

A great place for families, you can walk and bike along the loch. The highlight is a cruise on an old steamboat.

The signposted walk starts from the car park on the heights of the village of Callander. We first pass under spectacular boulders before skirting a river which leads to these impressive waterfalls running through a gorge before flowing into Keltie Water. The curious thing about this place is that it is on the boundary line between two species that do not mix: red squirrels and grey squirrels. Easy to access, this small 5.25 km hike can be completed in an hour and a half. The route is available for free download on walkhighlands.co.uk.

The graves of Rob Roy and his wife Mary can be seen in the cemetery in the hamlet of Balquhidder, near the plaque proclaiming "MacGregor despite them" ("MacGregor malgré eux tous"). The church is a real treasure for lovers of heritage and religious history. Indeed, there is the tombstone of the first saint who evangelized the territory, representing him with the salvation cup in his hands. There are also copies of the pages of the Bible translated by Reverend Kirk and an exhibition of objects that belonged to Rob Roy.

Just next to Port Askaig, this distillery of 1846 has unfortunately destroyed a large part of its original buildings to rebuild a more modern complex. The location is nevertheless very nice in front of the Paps of Jura, but there may be a bit less to see than in some of its counterparts. At 43%, the 12 year old has sweet, oily flavours, with light hints of peat and citrus. Several visits are possible, from the classic to the one combining whiskies and chocolates.

Always in the north, you will reach the breathtaking solitudes of Loch Maree and its untouched islands.

This 1880 cottage is a rare witness to island history and local traditions. Its last inhabitants left it as it was in 1966 and it has remained unchanged since then. There was no chimney and the peat fire was evacuated through the windows and thatched roof, keeping insects away. The white house across the street is the result of the hygiene regulations that were subsequently introduced. It is also owned by Historic Environment Scotland and is in stark contrast to its neighbour.

South of Gairloch, in this small village, where it - seem-T- them Vikings never set foot, are the most beautiful beaches in the area.

Reopened after renovation in July 2019, the Gairloch Heritage Museum will explore the historical, cultural and social past of the region. Its exhibition looks at the customs, traditions and daily life of the local people, as well as the events that have marked their lives, from the Bronze Age to the present day, including the Jacobites and the work of the crofters. If you're looking for original souvenirs, books on the region or local authors, stop by the shop: it's a real nugget!

Helmsdale, located in the Highlands of Scotland, is a tourist destination not to be missed. The town offers a variety of activities and sites to visit. Among the must-sees is the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre, featuring local history and contemporary art. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the Helmsdale River for fishing or relax on Helmsdale beach. Whisky lovers shouldn't miss the Clynelish distillery for a tour and tasting. For dining, Helmsdale offers a selection of restaurants serving Scottish and British dishes, such as Thyme and Plaice and La Mirage. Accommodation options range from hotels like The Belgrave Arms Hotel to vacation rentals like Kate's Croft.

An interactive museum has been set up in this old croft house, which presents the history of the port. The inhabitants who lived at one end of the house, built like the Viking longhouses, could observe the animals at the other end. Raise your head to look at the wooden structures on the roof. It was the first feat that men had to perform if they wanted to get married. Take advantage of being in Lybster to visit this picturesque and friendly village.

The Wick Heritage Museum brings the history of the town back to life and tells the story of its past, particularly in relation to fishing. The daily life of the men of the sea is detailed in detail, from the glory days of their profession to its decline. Numerous period objects are on display and reconstructions of a traditional house, a cannery and cooper and blacksmith workshops are also visited. There is even a small art gallery and a photo exhibition relating 150 years of social events. Also take a walk in the green haven of the garden.

At the eastern entrance to Durness, along the A838, these impressive caves, inhabited since the Neolithic period, offer a magical journey to the centre of the earth. We can enter their antechamber and see a first superb waterfall, the Smoo Burn. The paying ticket will allow you to board a boat for a tour, accompanied by a guide. You can get information at the tourist office or directly on the spot during visiting hours. Also take advantage of stops to go walking on the heights of the cliffs: they offer superb views.