Monuments to visit Scotland

Situated on the coast south of Stromness, this battery is a precious witness to Orkney's military history. It was in service during both World Wars and was part of the Scapa Flow defences, as the main base of the Royal Navy fleet. The command post, mess, gun room, murals, and the lives of the soldiers are all told during 75-minute tours, which take place several times a week at varying times of the year, depending on the season.

Armadale Castle was the seat of the MacDonald of Sleat, a branch of the very powerful Donald clan. It was purchased by the Clan Donald Land Trust in 1971. The Museum of the Isles traces 1,500 years of clan history in the Islands and Highlands, with portraits of great chiefs, carved stones, reconstructions and a wealth of information in seven modern and educational galleries. There are pleasant gardens, where many walks are possible.

1 km north of Braemar stands this amazing keep flanked by turrets. Home of the Farquharson clan, it was built in 1628. It is filled with the collections accumulated by its owners. About fifteen rooms are visible and make this visit very complete and attractive. One discovers there in particular a ghost story or this anecdote about Stevenson: while he was on holiday in Braemar in the summer of 1881, 7 continuous weeks of rain shut him up in his office, offering us the first pages of Treasure Island.

Hidden beneath a perfectly innocuous Scottish farmhouse, this military bunker has been hiding in the bowels of the Kingdom of Fife for over 40 years. It was dug out during the Cold War to be one of the command posts of the United Kingdom and the refuge of the Scottish authorities in the event of a nuclear attack. It never served and fortunately became useless enough to become an attraction. It plunges underground into 2,230 square metres of tunnels, war room and accommodation, on two levels the size of two football pitches on top of each other.

This 400 th century castle is the historic headquarters of the Menzies clan and occupies a strategic and military place for more than years. Involved in Highland History, Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed there for the Culloden Battle. Its austere high walls are home to a few pieces in a charming and chic way, contrasting with its exterior appearance. This is due to the renovations he has endured over time, to move from a defensive fortress to a comfortable nobility residence.

In what is one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the city, the Tolbooth Museum, a well-preserved seventeenth-century prison, presents exhibits on local history. It tells the story of Aberdeen through crime, police, law, order and punishment of the time. The prison world is portrayed over the centuries and the old gloomy cells, through which many convicts passed, including 50 Jacobites after the Battle of Culloden, are explored.

This 15th century castle was built for the Ruthven clan and called the House of Ruthven for most of its existence. It was here that Mary Queen of Scots and Lord Darnley stayed during the Chaseabout Raid. The visit is an opportunity to discover this dramatic historical episode on site. The castle consists of two towers and a great hall, which brought them together in the 17th century. There are some beautiful painted ceilings and plasterwork, dating from around 1540. A treasure hiding place is also to be discovered: a cupboard in a closet, hidden by a stone.

A 16th century fortified manor house on the banks of the River Tay, Elcho Castle is remarkably well preserved. The historic holiday home of the Wemyss family, it is one of the best preserved buildings of its time in the region. You can walk through all the rooms, including the interesting kitchen, and enjoy the beautiful view from the top. The interior is not furnished, but still has its original features. Perhaps you will see the new tenants of the place: pipistrelles, frightened owls and grey squirrels?

Kisimul Castle is the only true medieval castle still visible in the Outer Hebrides. Set in Castlebay, it is the seat of the MacNeils of Barra. It was built in the ^15th century on its splendid site, but they arrived on the island as early as the ^11th century. It was completely restored by a descendant of the family in the ^20th century. You can walk around its 3 floors and take a boat tour (included in the price) when it is open to the public. Be careful, it is currently under construction, you can only see it from the outside.

Built in the 12th century, the castle of Dirleton was the residence of three noble families for 400 years: the de Vauxes, the Haliburtons and the Ruthvens. The latter plotted here against Mary Stuart and James VI. It was during the Wars of Independence that he entered most deeply into Scottish history. It was largely devastated during Cromwell's Civil War, before the land was bought back in the 1660s to build a manor house. Beautiful Victorian and Arts & Crafts gardens are also laid out here.

Newhailes is a pleasant villa of the 17th century on a vast wooded park. If its front may seem a little austere, it has been finely decorated, in particular thanks to the Dalrymple family who was influential in the Enlightenment movement. The decorative elements are original, like Chinese wallpaper. The guided tour lasts 75 min. There is a 45 min version available at a reduced price (bookings possible). The Weehailes Park is fun for children.

Owned by the Dalyell family since 1612, this interesting house reflects the architectural trend of the time, which sought to combine defensive fortifications with space and comfort. Its large white façade is enhanced by turrets and behind the windows are rooms of great aesthetic quality. Among other things, you can see refined paintings, porcelain and rich furniture from the end of the ^19th and beginning of the ^20th century. Specific times for guided tours to be checked. The estate is more accessible.

If John Muir is not very well known in France, he is a great star in Scotland, but especially in the United States, where he emigrated in 1849 with his parents and became a great defender of the national parks. He is partly responsible for California's Yosemite National Park or Sequoia National Park. In this house where he was born, we discover his life, his travels and the vast legacy he left us. Some excerpts from his journals allow us to follow in his footsteps and share his love for nature and the wild world.

Sir Walter Scott came here regularly as a child and Smailholm Tower was then on the grounds of his grandfather's farm. She has inspired the artist a lot and appears in his poem Marmion. This 15th century fortified tower, perched on a rock above a lake, is a very evocative image of the Borders, of which it is a symbol. It is 20 metres high and has walls 2.50 metres thick, spread over four floors. From its imposing summit, you can see as far as the English castle of Bamburgh on a clear day.

Castle Campbell or Castle of Glooms - it's the same one, called differently - overlooks Dollar. This ^15th century castle dominates the valley with its medieval silhouette. Home of the Earls of Argyll - the heads of the Campbell clan - it is impressive for the panorama it offers and its central keep, 20 meters high. It first belonged to the Stuart clan. Mary Queen of Scots and John Knox stayed there. You can park below and access it by going up a waterfall, through a wooded and green area of great beauty. The gardens are also very pretty.

Built at the beginning of the 16th century, this castle was well ahead of its time. Its creator and owner, Sir James Hamilton of Finnart, had spent his early years abroad to perfect his knowledge of architecture and fortification. When his father died in 1529, he returned to Scotland to become one of the most powerful lords of the south and a friend of King James V. He fell into disgrace and was executed in 1540 and his descendants occupied Craignethan Castle until 1579. The building was immortalized by Sir Walter Scott in The Puritans of Scotland (1816).

Built in the heart of Stranraer around 1500 by Ninian Adair of Kilhurst, one of Wigtownshire's most powerful Lairds, this dungeon served as a dwelling, court, prison and garrison in turn, during the persecution of the Covenantaires. Transformed into an attraction in the 1980's, it is now a place where you can learn about its history and uses over time. The view from the top covers the whole city and its surroundings. You can take the castle as a starting point for the Town Trail, which will take you on a tour of the riches of Stranraer.

Considered a pioneer of Romanticism, Robert Burns was for a long time a peasant and gardener. He drew on this connection to nature and his land to write such renowned works as It's Only Goodbye or Tam O'Shanter. The vast museum brings together some 5,000 objects linked to him: manuscripts, portraits and personal effects. You can also visit the cottage where he was born on January 25, 1759, and where he spent seven years of his childhood.

Abertaff House is gradually opening to the public. The site presents exhibitions in a space which, in 2019, was still modest, but which should evolve rapidly over the months and years to become a cultural Mecca in Inverness. Abertaff House is a superb townhouse built on two and a half floors, built in 1593 and which, after being owned by a bank, came under the yoke of the National Trust for Scotland in 1963. Since 2022, there is a cosy tea room. Discover the history of Inverness and the National Trust sites.

There are two Inverlochy Castles: the recent one, which has become a luxury hotel, and the old one, in ruins, which can be discovered freely, a little away from the city. Old Inverlochy Castle is located in a strategic defensive position in relation to the river Lochy. It dates back to the 13th century and played a key role in 1645 when the Earl of Montrose, Royalist, defeated the forces of the chief of the Campbell clan, the Duke of Argyll: this was the second battle of Inverlochy. In 1654 it was abandoned in favour of a wooden fort, replaced by a stone fort, and named Fort William.

This castle is confidential and is not indicated anywhere or almost anywhere. It is signposted on some hiking routes, notably from Dramlanrig castle, but not from the road. You will have to drive on unpaved roads, but this beautiful ruin is worth a look. Indeed, it has a superb setting, on a triangular promontory above the water. Several explanatory panels allow you to discover what it may have been like at the time of its splendour, and also to understand its architecture.

Ellislad Farm is the farm where Robert Burns lived from 1788 to 1791. It was here that he wrote some of his most beloved nature poems. You will be immersed in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. Almost nothing has changed since the poet and bard left the house. You will enjoy travelling back in time and discover the daily life in the 18th century, the farm buildings, the stable and the orchard... You will also be able to walk along the banks of the Nith and let yourself be carried away by bucolic inspirations...

Skipness Castle is a remnant of a castle, situated opposite the island of Arran and accessible from the east coast of Kintyre, south of the village of Skipness. It is one of the oldest castles still standing. It dates from the early 13th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. Also known as MacSween Castle, after the clan that built it, it consisted of two floors with a modest entrance hall and a chapel dedicated to Saint Columba.

A huge 300 hectare park along the canal between Falkirk and Grangemouth. This ecopark connects more than 16 local communities. It is mainly known as the home of the Kelpies. These are the largest horse sculptures in the world! These two huge horse heads that are 9m high are inspired by mythical Scottish creatures. You can go inside if you book a guided tour.

Great place for families with velocipede boats, bike paths, water fountain area and an adventure playground.

This sumptuous castle with its curious architecture has its roots in the 13th century. It was for a long time a powerful defensive dungeon before being transformed into a noble palace over the years. Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed here in 1745 after the battle of Prestonpans and you can see the room that housed him. The interiors are very pleasant to visit, with painted ceilings, rare furniture, numerous paintings, porcelain and a collection of period toys. You can even rent luxury apartments.

The Glenfinann Viaduct was made famous by the Harry Potter saga. If the place is unavoidable for the fans, it gains to be seen by all, for its magnificent landscapes. The monument is impressive: a railway with a span of 1,000 feet (305 m), 100 feet (30.50 m) above the ground. A short hike, the Glenfinann Viaduct trail, allows you to discover it: 4 km (3 miles) in 1 to 2 hours, with a sometimes steep path (free route on walkhighlands.co.uk or in Visitor Centre). Take advantage of your excursion to visit the Glenfinann Monument.

Residence of the Archbishops of Moray, Spynie Palace rose from the ground in the 12th century and remained occupied by its illustrious residents until 1686. David's Tower is the most imposing tower-house still standing in Scotland, 22 m high. The remains of the Great Hall are a reminder of its former grandeur. Although the whole site is now partly in ruins, it is still impressive and beautiful, both in its architecture and its privileged natural environment. Royalty often used this palace as a guest house.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

This noble fortress will be one of your first glimpses of Mull, coming by the ferry from Oban. In the shadow of the mountains, bathed by the waters, it is the historic home of the Maclean clan, perched on its rock since the 13th century. It passed into the hands of the Campbell clan in 1661 and was ravaged before being abandoned. Sold in 1911 to Sir Fitzroy Donald Maclean, it was returned to its original family and fully restored. The visit includes the dungeon, the great hall, the rooms, a historical exhibition and the small garden.

Redeveloped by the National Trust and open to the public, this townhouse bears witness to life in a Victorian building in the early 20th century. Miss Agnes Toward lived here for half a century and many of her possessions are still there. Gas lighting is still in use and is a far cry from the installations we know in today's society. Among the curiosities and unusual objects: a jar of plum jam made in 1929, coal-fired stoves, gas lamps still functional...

Right next to the cathedral, Provand's Lordship is Glasgow's oldest house, built in 1471. It was the residence of the chaplain of the Saint Nicholas Hospital and it gives a very interesting insight into what daily life was like in the Middle Ages. Completely refurbished as it was then, the furniture was donated by William Burrell, the philanthropist of the Burrell Collection. The carved wooden chairs, chests and cupboards, as well as the quantity of domestic objects give a very authentic dimension to this attraction.

The superb building on George Square is none other than the town hall: City Chambers. Built in 1888, it is a very fine example of Victorian civic architecture by William Young. In 1923 it expanded to John Street and in 1986 the Custom House on George Street increased its total area to 14,000 square metres. His classicism of great beauty has earned him the choice to embody the Kremlin or the Vatican in film shoots. The banqueting hall, the council chamber and the marble staircase are the highlights of the visit

The Biggar Puppet Theatre is an institution that extends far beyond Biggar's borders, as it is known around the world and regularly tours internationally. It is also the only institution of its kind in Scotland. For 40 years, the shows have been thrilling the childlike souls of their spectators and inviting them to poetic journeys. These are shows with large puppets, manipulated in the Bunraku style, designed for children, but widely appreciated and appreciated by adults.

It was in this small, simple, unadorned townhouse that Robert Burns spent the last years of his life until his death in 1796. The interiors give us a good idea of how the Scottish bard lived with his wife, Jean Armour, and their children. We enter the office where he wrote some of his most beloved works, as well as the different pieces of his daily life. The house became a true place of pilgrimage afterwards: Wordsworth, Coleridge and Keats all passed through it to gather.

Mackintosh would almost make us forget the other great Scottish architects, such as William Adam, to whom we owe this charming 1752 villa. In addition to its lush green gardens with 1,000 rhododendrons, it contains a good number of master paintings. The Italians are well represented, with Francisco Goya, El Greco and Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, but there is also the British William Blake, whose work is so inspired. This was the home of the Maxwell family, whose Edwardian lifestyle still lives on in every room.

This powerful fortress was built facing the sea in the 14th century by the Douglas Dynasty, who repeatedly opposed the crown. James IV and V both besieged and damaged it, as did Oliver Cromwell during his invasion of the country. It was then abandoned to birds and wild flowers. Today, its beautiful red stone ruins are scrolling up the cliffs for splendid views of Bass Rock and a small jump into the site's sulphurous past. It is also a well-known film location for moviegoers.

Craigmillar Castle is nicknamed "Edinburgh's other castle", located just 1 mile from the outer walls of Old Town. Mary Queen of Scotts used it as a refuge in 1566, but a year later its owner, Sir Simon Preston, became the Queen's jailer. Among its points of interest are the splendid view from the tower, but also the almost labyrinthine aspect of the castle, conferred by the multiplication of rooms, or the remains of a pond. As is often the case, a children's quiz makes the family visit more enjoyable.

Dalmeny House was built in 1817 in a Gothic style and belongs to the Primrose de Rosebery family. It houses beautiful interiors decorated with portraits and porcelain, as well as an interesting collection of Napoleonic objects, one of the largest of its kind in Britain. The beautiful backdrop is a large park and the Firth of Forth. Entry to the house is by small groups only, on a guided tour (in English). In high season and to be sure to see the inside of the house, consider booking.

Welcome to the world of the Edinburgh bourgeoisie, at No. 7 Charlotte Square. The Georgian House is a daily newspaper in New Town, in a classic house by architect James Craig. Throughout the plays, we immerse ourselves in the customs of the time, thanks to adapted furnishings and staging. The five families who have lived here in succession have all left their mark, from the Lamont to the Bute. We follow their typical days and those of their maidservants, from the musical education of young girls to social gatherings, including the preparation of refined dishes in the huge kitchen.

The Writers' Museum packed its suitcases full of books in Lady Stair's House, a narrow medieval house in the Royal Mile (1622). It traces the lives of three famous Scottish writers: Robert Burns (1759-1796), Robert L. Stevenson (1850-1894), and Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832). Through manuscripts, paintings, portraits, personal effects, engravings and photographs, their paths are retraced. The top floor features a superb Ballantyne press, on which Sir Walter Scott's first edition of Waverley was printed.

Welcome to this house from the 1600s. First go upstairs to discover what life in Edinburgh was like in the 17th century through an exhibition. Take a pose in a period costume, then, now that you are in the spirit of the place, go to the first floor and its fully furnished apartment. It's as if you've traveled back in time! Admire the sumptuous canopy bed, the upright dining room, the study cabinet.... Voluntary guides or descriptive sheets reveal the secrets of this beautiful residence.