Hard Tales of Scotland: Edinburgh, Trains and Nessie. How much does a holiday in Scotland cost? Best time to visit

Scotland is a state that is part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, located on the island of Great Britain and bordering England. The country is washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea.

Total area – 78,772 sq. km, the population is more than 5,000,000 people, among whom 88% are Scots, 7% are English, the rest are Irish, Poles, Pakistanis, Chinese, Indians, and people from Africa. Most of the population considers itself to be a member of the national Church of Scotland, the rest are Catholics and atheists. Official languages– English, Scottish Gaelic and Anglo-Scottish.

The capital is the city of Edinburgh.

Cities of Scotland

Acquaintance with the mysterious Scotland should begin from the capital - the city of Edinburgh. This metropolis attracts tourists from all over the world with its historical monuments, museums, nightlife, and restaurants. And the world organization UNESCO awarded the city the status of “City of Literature”. A large number of guests gather annually for Festivals - Performing Arts (in August), Conversation Lovers (in October), Festival of Various Arts (in June), International Book Festival (in August), Film Festival (in June), Jazz Festival (in July).

The city of Glasgow is one of the largest in Scotland. This is a city with modern architecture and a large number of natural monuments included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Inverness is an industrial city associated with the name of the Loch Ness monster.

Dundee is home to spectacular scenery, historic sites and golf courses.

Aberdeen is a port city, former Royal residence.

The city of Stirling is the smallest city in Switzerland, in the past it was the capital of the state.

How to get to Scotland

There are no direct flights between Belarus and Scotland.

You can fly with airlines Turkish Airlines, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa with a connection in Istanbul, Amsterdam, London, Paris, Frankfurt or Prague.

You can fly to London, and then take a bus, train or plane to Edinburgh.

Your trip to Scotland will be exciting, interesting and unforgettable if you contact the travel company “Spasibo Travel” when planning your trip.

Climate of Scotland

The territory of Scotland is influenced by a temperate oceanic climate. Weather conditions are greatly influenced by the warm Atlantic Gulf Stream.

The average air temperature in summer is +19 degrees, in winter - +5 - +7 degrees (slightly cooler on the coast).

Annual precipitation is 800 mm – 3000 mm depending on the area. It can rain 200 days a year.

In coastal areas, storms are a common occurrence.

The best time to travel around the country is from June to August.

Scotland Hotels

The hotel base in Scotland is at a high level and is represented by all “star” categories, which are quite consistent with reality.

Here you will find excellent service, modernly equipped rooms, quality service and a developed entertainment infrastructure. The average cost of living is from 20 to 320 US dollars, depending, of course, on the number of “stars” on the facade.

A special type of accommodation is accommodation in ancient castles, where you can also practice shooting, falconry, fishing, golfing, and horse riding.

Alternative accommodation options include apartment hotels, Bed & Breakfast hotels, hostels and boarding houses.

Banks, money, exchange offices

The currency of Scotland is the pound sterling, divided into 100 pence (pennies). There are paper notes in circulation in denominations of 5,10,20,50 pounds, coins in denominations of 1.2 pounds and 1,2,5,10,20,50 pence.

Banking hours:

From Monday to Wednesday – from 9.30 to 12.30

Thursday – from 9.30 to 12.30 and from 16.30 to 18.30

Friday – from 9.30 to 15.30

Only branches of large banks are open on Saturday

Closed on Sunday

You can exchange currency in banks and specialized exchange offices (commissions are charged everywhere). ATMs are found everywhere.

Credit cards of the world's major payment systems (Visa, Maestro, Master Card) are accepted for payments in most restaurants, hotels, shops, clubs and even by some sellers in the markets. Travel checks (preferably in pounds) are widely used, but are not accepted as payment for goods and services.

Tipping in Scotland is accepted at 10 – 12% of the total amount of the check, if the service charge is not included in the check.

Tourist safety

The crime rate in Scotland is quite low, but even here it is necessary to follow basic rules of behavior:

• It is advisable to leave valuables, large sums of money and documents in the hotel safe
• In crowded places, it is recommended to monitor personal belongings and not leave them unattended
• Don't forget to bring repellent on your trip.

Transport

Domestic air services in Scotland are quite well developed. Transportation is provided by FlyBe (the cheapest), British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

The railway communication is at a fairly high level. The trains are modern, comfortable, run strictly on schedule, and offer magnificent views along the route. The cost of travel, for example, from Edinburgh to Glasgow (travel time - 50 minutes) is 13 - 22 pounds.

It is more profitable to purchase passes for planes and trains.

To remote places where there is no railway, the most convenient way to get there is by bus. The average cost of a trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow, for example, would be around £4. It is more profitable to purchase a Scotish Explorer Pass.

There is a ferry service between the islands. The cost of a trip lasting from 10 minutes to 1 hour will be 5 - 8 pounds, transporting a car is 5 - 6 times more expensive.

Urban transport in Scotland includes buses, metro (in Glasgow), ferries (on the islands). The cost of one trip is 1.2 pounds, a full-day pass is 2.5 pounds.

Taxi is a fairly popular and widespread form of transport. Externally, the cars may resemble black London cabs with a yellow sign on the roof. You can hire a taxi at special parking lots, right on the street, or by phone around the clock. All cars are licensed and equipped with meters. Fare:

• From 6.00 to 22.00 - 3 pounds for the first 1161 m and 20 pence for each subsequent 169 m
• From 23.00 to 5.00 - £3.75 for the first 1161 m, 25% is added to the cost of subsequent ones
• 1 hour wait – 15 pounds
• Maximum baggage charge: £5

In order to rent a car, you will need:

• International driver's license
• Passport (age – from 21 years)
• Credit card

Rental cost - minimum 23 pounds per day + 12 - 20 pounds for fuel and parking. It should be noted that in Scotland you drive on the left.

Entertainment, excursions, attractions

The main attractions of the city of Edinburgh are the modern Parliament House and Parliament Square, St. Andrew's Square, Holyroodhouse Palace, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, St. Matthew's Rosslyn Chapel, Forth Bridge, St. Mary's Cathedral, Theater Royal. It is worth visiting the numerous museums of the city - the Center - Museum of the History of Whiskey, the Museum of Childhood, the Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions. Young tourists will be interested in visiting the Edinburgh Zoo with its daily Penguin Parade and the National Museum. Not far from the city is the Aquarium Center, where you can swim with sharks and swim through a 112-meter long tunnel (the largest in the world), as well as have a great time on Portobello Beach.

When in Glasgow, be sure to visit Cathedral, Crookston Castle, the Art Gallery and numerous museums.

The main place of pilgrimage for tourists in the city of Inverness is the famous Loch Ness with the great mystery of the Loch Ness monster, which came to us from the 17th century. It would be worth visiting the Nessie Museum, located nearby. To this should be added the ancient castle, St. Andrew's Cathedral and the Historical Museum.

In Dundee, must-see attractions include Glamis Castle, St Mary's Tower, the McManus Galleries, the Botanic Gardens and the Mills Observatory.

The city of Aberdeen is famous for its Art Gallery, Maritime Museum, St. Machar's Cathedral, castles - Craigievar, Balmoral, Drama and, of course, parks and squares.

The castle of the city of Stirling dates back to 83 and today hosts large number tourists. There are other attractions here - the Wales Monument in honor of the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1214, Holyrood Church and Cambuskennet Abbey.

Lovers alpine skiing will have a great time at the resorts of Glenshee and Lecht.

For lovers active recreation, cycling and mountaineering, Aberdeenshire hospitably opens its doors.

Cuisine and restaurants

The main dishes of Scottish cuisine are:

• Thick, rich soups - cereal, meat and potatoes, fish (for example, with smoked fish)
• Beef, lamb legs, venison (considered a delicacy), fish, shellfish, crustaceans
• Haggis is a dish of sheep's tripe and barley, seasoned and baked in a sheep's or lamb's stomach. Serve on a warm platter with mashed potatoes, turnip puree and whiskey
• Sweet puddings, buns with jam, muffins, desserts made from whipped cream, rolled oats and berries

Alcoholic drinks: whiskey.

Shopping and shops

Store opening hours:

From Monday to Saturday – from 9.00 to 17.30 – 18.00

On Sunday - only large ones - from 10.00 - 11.00 to 17.30 - 18.00

From Scotland, as a rule, they bring clothes made of wool and cashmere, bagpipes, souvenirs with Celtic symbols, and kilts - national clothing.

Edibles include canned haggis, heather honey, heather liqueur and, of course, Scotch whiskey.

VAT in Scotland is 17.5%, you can return it by taking a special receipt from the seller (for a purchase worth at least 30 pounds) and presenting it at customs along with the unopened goods.

Customs

Allowed to import:

• Up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 cigarillos or 250 g of tobacco
• Up to 1 liter of strong alcohol and 2 liters of weak alcohol
• No more than 50 ml of perfume and 250 ml of eau de toilette
• Goods totaling up to 180 euros
• Medicines (with a doctor's prescription)

It is prohibited to import:

• Guns and switchblade knives
• Drugs
• Counterfeit coins and banknotes
• Plants
• Obscene materials
• Radio transmitters
• Products (meat, fish, honey, eggs, milk)

Allowed to export:

• 2 liters of wine or 1 liter of strong alcohol
• Up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco

It is prohibited to export:

• Historical values, jewelry, antiques
• Food of animal origin
• Weapons without special permission
• Drugs
• Animals and plants

It is allowed to import pets if you have an international veterinary certificate, a certificate of vaccination against rabies issued at least 7 months before departure, and permission from the veterinary service.

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VISA The UK tourist visa is valid for 6 months. An application for its receipt on-line is filled out in English on the website www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk. In British visa center(Bolshoi Savinsky Lane, 12, building 18) an international passport valid for at least six months, a certificate from the place of work (study) indicating the position and salary, a color photograph 45x35 mm, confirmation of hotel reservations, old international passports, documents on availability of necessary funds for the trip. All documents must be accompanied by an English translation. SEASON The best time to travel to Scotland is spring, when the yellow gorse blooms, and summer, when the slopes of the mountains and heathlands are covered with a purple carpet of flowering heather. TICKETS There are no direct flights from Moscow to Edinburgh. You can fly with a transfer in Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Paris, Frankfurt am Main or London. Airplanes from Aeroflot, Transaero, British Airways, and British Midland Airways (BMI) fly from Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo airports to London. Flight duration is 4 hours. Air tickets cost from 14,000 rubles. Between London and Edinburgh there are high speed trains. Travel time 4 hours 30 minutes. MONEY The British currency is the pound sterling (GBP). There are banknotes in circulation in denominations of 5, 10, 20 and 50 GBP. Coins: 1 and 2 GBP, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 pence. EDINBURGH The busiest place in the Scottish capital is the Royal Mile, which starts from Edinburgh Castle. Shops, the cathedral, monuments, restaurants, street performers, museums and, at the very end, the Palace of Holyroodhouse - since 1529 official residence all the rulers of Scotland, starting with James V and ending with the current Queen Elizabeth II. The palace is open to the public. In the tower of James V, traces of the blood of David Riccio, Mary Stuart’s trusted secretary, who was killed in front of the queen’s eyes by her jealous husband Lord Darnley, are preserved. HOTELS $$$ The Bonham Located west of the center of Scotland's capital in a house built in 1882 with luxurious interiors. The walls of the restaurant are decorated with oak panels. There is excellent French cuisine here. (Drumsheugh Gardens 35, +44(131)226.6050, www.thebonham.com, from $160) $$$ The Balmoral Centrally located next to Edinburgh Castle. Antique furniture, picturesque canvases of Scottish landscapes, gourmet cuisine from the Michelin-starred Number One restaurant. (Princes Street 1, +44(131)556.2414, www.thebalmoralhotel.com, from $450) RESTAURANTS $$$ Vintners Rooms Hidden away in a 16th-century wine cellar. Excellent cuisine and pleasant atmosphere. (The Vaults, Giles St. Leith 87, +44(131)554.6767, www.thevintnersrooms.com, from $50) $$ Atrium “New British kitchen”, beautiful Art Nouveau interior, soft lighting and dark wood tables. (10 Cambridge St., +44(131)228.8882, www.atriumrestaurant.co.uk, from $40) ISLAND OF SKYE The largest of the Inner Hebrides with a population of 9,250 people. Homeland of the Skye Terrier. Located at west coast Scotland, just under 100 km long and 50 km wide, it is so indented by bays that from any point it is no more than 8 km to the sea. The island was first mentioned by Ptolemy in the 2nd century. Medieval chronicles speak of Skye as an island of clairvoyants and giants. In the north and in the center there are picturesque rocks. In the south there are green sheep pastures and small farms. HOTELS $$ Duisdale Victorian hunting lodge with fully preserved historic interiors. The hotel has 18 rooms and a restaurant serving excellent French cuisine. (+44(0)147.1833202, www.duisdale.com, from $200) $$$ Three Chimneys The cozy family hotel on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean has only six rooms, but they are equipped with royal luxury. The hotel has one of the best restaurants in all of Scotland. (+44(0)147.0511258, www.threechimneys.co.uk, from $420) Prices are per night in a double room

Scotland offers a multifaceted and unique holiday experience. Only in this country can you fully enjoy both lush nature and extreme varieties. Excellent excursion tours will help diversify your holiday in Scotland 2019. Prices and attractions seen here will be remembered for a long time by all tourists.

Sights of Scotland

The unique natural attractions of Scotland can be called crystal clean lakes and ideal fjords, picturesque valleys and snow-white mountain peaks. All this can be seen by visiting this northern country.

One of the most popular cities for tourists is the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh. The city sits on the shores of the beautiful Firth of Forth. Here you can see many ancient castles in interesting architectural styles. Tourists can visit the 15th-century Church of St. Gilles, the Houses of Parliament built in 1639, the house that belonged to the Protestant reformer John Nonce, the National Portrait Gallery, and many museums. A large number of hotels are always available to tourists. A room in such a hotel will cost an average of 3,000 rubles per day. You can also stay in an inexpensive hostel, it will cost from 800 rubles per day.

Edinburgh has a vibrant cultural scene. Various arts festivals are constantly held here, where you can enjoy the modern music of the country, especially popular are the melodies performed on the traditional Scottish bagpipes. It is better to travel in the capital by public transport; one trip will cost about 145 rubles.

Not far from Edinburgh there is a place called Fife. Here you can stroll along beautiful sandy beaches and visit fishing villages.

If you go to the north of the country, you can find yourself in the Spadeside distilleries. Here you can get acquainted with the history of the famous Scotch whiskey and taste this strong drink.

For active and sociable tourists, a trip to Glasgow is suitable, where there are many old pubs, and numerous fashionable boutiques and chic restaurants tempt you to spend all the money you brought.

The real pride of Scotland has become medieval castles. All of them have now been rebuilt into hotels or serve as museums. Newlyweds especially love these castles, because they can be used as a wonderful decoration for a wedding.

The sights of Scotland are amazing; they are varied and unique. What do you think is the first thing a person should do before going to this country? Get maximum information on what to see in Scotland. This will prevent you from wasting time.

What to see first in Scotland?

The country in question is deservedly one of the most colorful parts of the United Kingdom. Which is not surprising, because it is rich in panoramic views, unique historical and architectural monuments. In order to have time to cover the main attractions of the autonomous part of Great Britain, you need to get to know them in advance.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle - an ancient fortress on Castle Rock

The fortress is located in the city of the same name, namely in its central part at the top of Castle Hill. This attraction is one of Scotland's top attractions, as evidenced by the number of visitors per year. The internal space of the building is divided into three parts - “courtyards”, they are connected by gates. The main value of the described fortress is represented by the source of drinking water; it is protected by the Well Tower in the Middle Court. There is a museum dedicated to museum themes nearby. Great photos can be taken with the Mons Meg cannon in the Upper Yard in the background.

2. Broch of Moosa

Round fortification on the Isle of Mowes Tom Pennington

The structure is located in the Shetland Islands archipelago and is the tallest circular structure dating back to the Iron Age. In Europe, not many monuments from the era of early class history have survived, and the defensive building described is one of them. Despite its age, it is well preserved and is therefore considered a strong candidate for listing. World Heritage UNESCO. When traveling through this area, pay attention to the Broch of Mawes.

3. Royal Mile in Edinburgh

Buildings and shops on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

This landmark of Scotland consists of several streets running in the very center of the city. Their total length is approximately one Scottish mile, and the streets are connected by the famous Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, which at different times served as the residence of Scottish and British monarchs. In the middle Royal Mile intersects with bridges. Once upon a time, merchants, artisans gathered in this part of the city, taverns and even brothels worked around the clock. The Inquisition also met there and important decisions regarding financial affairs were made.

4. Palace of Holyroodhouse

The main entrance to the Palace of Holyroodhouse

During your trip to the UK, do not miss the opportunity to see with your own eyes the residence of Her Majesty the Queen. The building is decorated in Baroque style, and it is located on the famous Royal Mile. The Scottish queen, who lived in the palace, became famous for the fact that her reign was accompanied by murders and numerous conspiracies. How are apartments used nowadays? With a certain periodicity, receptions of national importance are held there, in which the queen herself and members of her family take part. They are also working on the palace grounds interesting exhibitions, offering the opportunity to get acquainted with the history of the autonomous state.

5. Loch Lomond

Landscape of Loch Lomond

This Scottish landmark is surrounded by hundreds of steep hills and medieval castles. The length of the lake is 24 miles, on which there are a large number of islands. The smallest of them periodically disappear during high tides, but the largest ones are inhabited by hardworking Scots for many years. Inchmurrin is a large landmass and ferries often stop near it. The description says that there you can see with your own eyes the ruins of the monastery, Lennox Castle, which was once used as a hunting residence.

6. Isle of Skye

Corner of the Isle of Skye

According to the recommendations of experienced travelers, it is worth visiting only because of the beautiful views. This area belongs to the highlands, where the local population speaks not only English, but also the almost extinct Gaelic language. On the territory of Skye there are several other attractions of Scotland. These are ancient castles, a small fishing port. Many people, going to the island, do not expect anything special. But! Upon arrival, you are amazed at the splendor of the local beauty. You can get to the described area of ​​land from the mainland of the country via a bridge.

See stunning views of Scotland in this beautiful video!

7. Eilean Donan Castle

Romantic Eilean Donan Castle with Loch Duich in the background

This landmark of Scotland is located on the above-described Isle of Skye. Getting there is not easy, but believe me, what you see is worth it. The majestic structure is surrounded by mountains, and it stands directly in the middle of the lake. It would do well for tourists to know that the described castle was repeatedly used as a film set for feature films that gained worldwide popularity. One of these works is “Highlander”. Despite its great age, the castle is well preserved; you can get to it by crossing a stone bridge, which is also not young.

8. Loch Ness

Castle ruins on the shores of Loch Ness

As a continuation of the topic of what to see in Scotland, I would like to draw attention to one of the largest bodies of water in the autonomous state. In terms of area it ranks second, and in terms of water volume it ranks first; its origin is glacial. There are several villages on the banks, as well as the unique Urquhart Castle. Not without artificial islands, known as crannogs. This attraction of Scotland became popular due to the existence of a legend about the monster Nessie, who lives in the described area.

9. Luskentyre Beach

Luskentyre beach, hidden in a cozy bay

His main feature is that with the right lighting, the water near the shore becomes similar to the Bahamas. The sand looks more like talcum powder. During low tides, the bay, hidden from prying eyes, transforms into a beach of gigantic proportions. Don't know where to go in Scotland? Head to Luskentyre Beach, an ethereal mix of shimmering blue streaks and swirling sand. The picture is perfectly complemented by low desert mountains.

10. National Museum of Scotland (Edinburgh)

Glass exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland Karen Bryan

In the ranking of interesting places it does not rank last place. The museum was created not just on its own, it is a union of two museums - the Royal and dedicated to antiquity. The exhibits are mostly represented by specimens of local antiquities, history, and culture. There is a part that tells its guests the history of the development of technology, science, world culture, and natural science. This landmark of Scotland is formed by two buildings located in the very center of Edinburgh. Both of them are distinguished by individuality, they managed to preserve their originality, as well as original features.

11. Stirling Castle

Main gate of Stirling Castle

What to see in Scotland in 1 day? Pay attention to one of the largest ancient buildings in the state. It has both historical and architectural significance. The castle is located on a high hill, surrounded on three sides by deep cliffs. If we talk about the defensive function, then in this regard it is located very well. Not long ago, a decision was made to begin restoration work in order to return the castle to its former splendor. It is interesting to know that in the 19th century it was partially rebuilt in the baronial style. Legends say that the castle is haunted, which attracts tourists even more.

12. Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis - highest mountain UK

What to see in Scotland? Great option is Mount Ben Nevis, it is used exclusively for climbing. But this was not always the case, from 1883 to 1904. on the hill was the observatory of the Scottish Meteorological Society. Thanks to her, reliable information about the weather was obtained. There was also a hotel for tourists there, which explains the presence of a long-trodden path. Guides in Scotland often bring visitors to this place to admire the beautiful surroundings. Those wishing to conquer this peak should keep in mind that weather conditions vary, which can make the climb difficult.

13. Urquhart Castle

A working catapult among the ruins of Urquhart Castle

Thinking about what to visit in Scotland? There is an interesting place on the shores of Loch Ness, this is a castle with ancient history. It is known that it changed owners many times, and at a certain period of time it was even subject to a long-term siege. Today, this attraction of Scotland belongs to the National Trust and is one of the most popular places among tourists. Continuing the review, I would like to note that part of the walls and the main tower have survived to this day. Structures such as the chapel, the large hall, and the kitchen were badly destroyed. You can get there only through a moat, over which there used to be a drawbridge.

14. Cairngorms National Park

Road in the Cairngorms National Park

Today in all of Great Britain it is one of the best natural attractions. Just imagine, there are pine forests, lakes, rivers, Arctic mountains, heathlands. All this is typical for the natural reserve of the United Kingdom. If you are interested in excursions in Scotland, then a park of national significance is perfect. This is a fairly popular place for hiking. It offers entertainment for lovers of mountaineering, winter sports, as well as hunting and fishing in the mountains. 3 of the 5 ski resorts existing in Scotland are concentrated in the Cairngorms National Park.

15. Isle of Arran

Amazing nature of the Isle of Arran

It is deservedly considered one of the most attractive in the country. This island of land is located in the Firth of Clyde. Under the influence of natural forces, the island is divided into two parts, each of which has its own relief. For example, the northern part is characterized by the presence of mountain peaks and waterfalls, but the southern part boasts picturesque sandy beaches, low hills. Excursions in Scotland are often conducted in this direction. On the island itself there is only one road that runs around the perimeter.

Sights of Scotland: what else to visit in Scotland?

All interesting places It’s difficult to list them at once, because there are a lot of them on the territory of the autonomous state. Based on reviews , There are a few more worth considering. Continuing the topic of what to visit in Scotland?

16. Culzean Castle

Side view of Culzean Castle

Represents a complete historical monument, attracting the attention of tourists. This building huge size, built in the 18th century, very similar to a palace. Its highlight is the surrounding park, with even exotic plants growing in it. The castle was once the residence of the Marquises of Eiles, but is now listed in the National Trust of the country. As with other buildings of this type, many mystical ghost stories are associated with it.

17. Skara Brae

Dilapidated dwellings ancient settlement Skara Brae

What else to see in Scotland? A fairly well-preserved settlement founded in the Neolithic era deserves attention. On its territory there are 8 houses united into blocks; they were inhabited a very long time ago. Scientists have come to the conclusion that a certain part of the ancient structures was at one time swallowed up by the sea. Mysterious-looking carved stone balls were discovered in the settlement.

18. Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle on a cliff overlooking Dunvegan Loch

As you can see, the sights of Scotland delight with their diversity. What is the castle worth, standing on a high basalt rock on the shore of Loch Dunvegan. To this day, it is the family estate of the MacLeod family, and the 30th chapter lives in it. Now tourists can see interesting relics there, for example, the Fairy Banner, a cup that belonged to Dunvegan and Rog, and a ceremonial wooden cup. Each has its own version of origin. Within the walls of the castle there is a museum where items that belonged to the heroine Flora MacDonald are on display. Many other historical exhibits are no exception.

19. Melrose Abbey

Cemetery next to the ruins of Melrose Abbey

On the territory of the described state, which is autonomous, there are Cistercian monasteries; Melrose was one of the first to be built. Dedicated to the memory of the Virgin Mary. During its existence, it was repeatedly subjected to destruction, devastation and even arson. But! No one ever spared money for the restoration of the abbey; this also concerned the land, human strength. Don't know what else to see in Scotland? Visit Melrose Abbey, you won't regret it. This place is considered mystical because the heart of King Robert the Bruce was buried there.

20. Isle of Mull

Scenic panorama of the Isle of Mull

The country described is rich in islands, each with its own characteristics. I would like to pay attention to Mallu, this is a piece of land from which you can admire an incredibly beautiful panorama, family estate Maclean's in the form of Duart Castle. It is known that it was rebuilt several times; modern tourists can only see the appearance characteristic of the 16th century. The presence of thick walls and powerful fortifications indicates the military purpose of the building.

For those who didn’t know what to see in Scotland, the article should be useful. It contains maximum information about local attractions. As for hotels in Scotland, there are quite a lot of them; there is sure to be an option suitable for comfort and price.

Scotland– these are the fascinating Hebrides and the mystical Loch Ness, fabulous Edinburgh, business Glasgow and historical Stirling. Scotland is associated with fine whiskey, the sound of bagpipes and men in skirts called kilts. In Scotland you can play golf or croquet, go fishing and go boating. water transport, ride a horse, explore medieval castles, visit clubs and restaurants, go on a trip to the Islands and Highlands. There are plenty of opportunities for active recreation and travel.

Scotland: Travel Guides

Scotland: How to get there

You can get to Scotland from Russia, Ukraine, the CIS countries, as well as from other cities in Europe and the world by plane, train, bus, car, ferry. Information on how to get to Scotland using each of these types of transport is in our section:.

Scotland: Hotels and Accommodation

Housing Features

As with the rest of the UK, living in Scotland is expensive. There is a choice from accommodation in real castles, to accommodation in guest houses and hostels.

Castles and villas

The highest level and special flavor of accommodation are five-star castles, where the interior of the Middle Ages has been preserved, as well as huge villas located far from major cities. This accommodation option is offered for the most discerning and wealthy tourists. Often in such hotels, in addition to breakfast, they also offer lunch and dinner.

Hotels

The cities feature hotels from world-famous families; they offer everything you need for a stay, but do not have the luxury that castles and villas have.

Inns (pubs)

Another popular and colorful, but more modest option for accommodation is the numerous inns (inns), they are also pubs. They are also called “restaurants with rooms.” These are small hotels with just a few rooms, where greater emphasis is placed on the existing pub inside, in which not only hotel guests, but also, to a greater extent, pub guests spend time.

Budget types of housing

From more budget options for accommodation in, or you can find youth hostels, guest houses and B&B (bed and breakfast), and in the summer - campuses in student settlements. For outdoor recreation, especially in the Highlands area (Highlands), you can stay at one of the many campsites - in a tent or in a van. In cities and countryside local residents they rent out their houses and apartments for tourists - it’s cheaper if you rent for a week or more.

Scotland: Food and Food

Kitchen features

Scottish cuisine is dominated by dishes made from lamb and beef, fresh fish; here they also respect dishes from wild animals, which are prepared with berry sauces. Edinburgh and Glasgow have a choice of cuisines from around the world: Thai, Japanese, Turkish, Caribbean. Glasgow has a reputation for being a city where dishes are curried, while Edinburgh has a lot of seafood dishes.

Dishes

Scottish dishes worth trying include lamb tripe seasoned with offal, oatmeal and spices (haggis) and Kalen soup. In most Scottish hotels, breakfast includes sausages, bacon and fried eggs, with the addition of potato scones and black pudding (blood sausage). Other breakfast options could be porridge or fish dishes: herring, smoked haddock. At lunchtime, the standard snack is a sandwich with a cup of soup. The regular menu offers soup, sandwiches, shrimp and chips.

Desserts

One of the most famous Scottish desserts is clootie dumplings (fruit pudding) and cranachan (a dessert made from toasted oatmeal with the addition of cottage cheese, cream, raspberries and honey).

Drinks

The local Irn Bru (carbonated fruit drink) has long been produced as a soft drink, which is more popular in Scotland than Coca-Cola or Fanta. Scotland also produces large quantities of mineral water, which it exports to other countries. The main drink is strong tea with added milk.

Alcoholic drinks

The national alcoholic drink is whiskey, which originates from Scotland. These are the famous brands “Johnie Walker”, “Ballantine’s”, “Hankey Bannister”, “Black & White”, “Dewar’s” and others. They also brew good ale and lager here, which can be found in any pub and restaurant. Alcohol is permitted for persons over 18 years of age.

Restaurants and cafes

The best option in terms of price-quality ratio would be a lunch meal in one of the hotel's pubs or restaurants. If we talk about cities, you can have lunch cheaper at one of the fast foods. In many areas of Scotland, eating times are limited. Breakfast in hotels often ends by 9 o'clock, lunch by 2 o'clock, and dinner by 20 o'clock. If you are traveling in remote regions and realize that you will not make it by the set time, it makes sense to arrange in advance at the hotel reception to prepare food for you at a later time. Pubs are often open from 11 am to 11 pm, but popular pubs in tourist areas may be open all night. Smoking is prohibited in all pubs and restaurants throughout Scotland.

Scotland: Transport

Airplane

It makes sense to travel by plane only to those regions that are not accessible by train or bus. Islands are such places. From Edinburgh and Glasgow, Flybe airline operates flights to the Shetland Islands (Samborough Airport) and Lewis and Harris Island (Stornoway). The flight time is about 1 hour, and tickets can be purchased at prices starting from 220 GBP round trip.

Train

The train is the fastest and convenient way moving around mainland Scotland. Trains are operated by the national company ScotRail. It is better to buy tickets online, since the cost is lower and you can buy a ticket at a promotional price. From Edinburgh to Glasgow the train takes about 1 hour (tickets cost from 15 GBP one way), and from Edinburgh to the western Highlands (Highlands), to the city of Fort William (Fort William)– 5 hours (from 18 GBP one way). If you are transporting oversized luggage, a bicycle or animals, you may have to pay extra.

Bus

The bus covers distances in the same time as the train, and given mountainous areas, may be the only possible way to travel. You can get from Edinburgh to Glasgow in 1 hour 10 minutes (ticket costs from 6 GBP one way), and to Fort William in 5 hours (from 30 GBP). The main carriers in Scotland are National Express, Megabus, Scottish Citylink and Stagecoach. Tickets can be purchased on the company websites, printed and presented to the driver upon boarding. In some regions such as the Highlands , Hebrides , Shetland Islands, you can travel only by postal buses (capacity - from 3 to 10 people). These buses depart around 8 am from the post offices of the respective villages.

Water transport

You can take a ferry from Shetland and Orkney, and from Oban (Oban)– to the Hebrides and the Isle of Mull (Mull Island). Tickets cost from 35 GBP per person, one way. Main carriers: Caledonian MacBrayne and North Link Ferries. The fare also includes car transportation on the ferry. It is cheaper to travel together or with a group; if you travel alone, the ticket per person will be more expensive.

You can plan a trip to Scotland by ferry and view the schedule on the website