Scotland — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Ayrshire, Scotland

Ayrshire is a county located on the southeast coast of Scotland. It is most known for its famous breed of cattle as well as its role in the history of golf. The most famous golf event in the United Kingdom, the British Open, was first held in the Ayrshire town of Troon back in 1860.

The land that is now Ayrshire has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years. The location on the coast means that it has always been a great source of food with its abundance of fishing. The area also has some of the most fertile soil in Scotland. There are vast potato fields along the coast, and the farmers also grow many other root vegetables such as garlic and onions. The farms in the region are also home to lots of livestock, mostly cattle and pigs.

Ayrshire first became part of the kingdom of Scotland in the 11th century. A famous castle was built in Ayrshire in the 13th century. Known as Turnberry Castle, it is famous as the birthplace of Robert the Bruce, who led the Scottish armies that defeated the English forces in the Wars of Scottish Independence.

There are lots of great attractions for visitors to Ayrshire to enjoy. The Isle of Arran is a big draw for hikers who enjoy exploring its high peaks and glacial valleys. The isle is full of small towns that offer visitors friendly hospitality and quaint charms in their pubs.

Another popular tourist attraction in Ayrshire is Culzean Castle. It is one of the most popular tourist draws in all of Scotland. The castle and its beautiful grounds offer spectacular views of the sea.

Many visitors come to Ayrshire to enjoy the beautiful scenery on cycling excursions. The sleepy towns and picturesque seaside roads offer cyclists many wonderful routes to explore. The rolling hills and frequent pubs ensure that cyclists will sleep well after a day of riding through the area.

The most common reason that people visit Ayrshire is to enjoy some of the most amazing golf in the world. There are many courses to enjoy in the county, but the two most famous courses in Ayrshire are Turnberry and Royal Troon. Both of these courses have hosted the British Open multiple times. They offer some of the most beautiful holes and spectacular play of any courses on the planet, and both are open to the public.

Filed Under: Ayrshire, Europe, featured, Scotland, United Kingdom

Inverness, Scotland

Situated in the heart of the Scottish Highlands is the lovely city of Inverness, Scotland. While Inverness may be the leading center for commerce, it also boasts a wide array of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Historically, Inverness served as a stronghold for the Picts. Unfortunately, the city’s strategic location also led to a number of conflicts over the years. During medieval times, Inverness experienced raids on a regular basis from the Western Isles.

One of the most popular attractions in the area is Inverness Castle. The castle dates back to 1847 and was constructed to replace a medieval-era castle that was destroyed by the Jacobites. Although the castle is now home to the Sheriff Court and is not open to tours, many visitors do enjoy walking by and viewing the castle.

To learn more about the history of the local area, a visit to the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery is in order. The museum features a collection of wildlife dioramas, Pictish stones, and historic weapons. Following a significant refurbishment, the museum also now home to numerous artifacts loaned from the National Museum of Scotland. The Old High Church is another popular landmark in the local area.

If you want to get a good feel for the city, taking a walk along the beautiful River Ness is a wonderful way to see many of the most picturesque locations in Inverness. If you happen to be feeling particularly active, take a bike ride through the Ness Islands. Inverness also offers a wide array of watersports as well as opportunities for golfing.

Inverness is also home to a thriving theatre and music scene. Several venues in Inverness frequently sponsor indie nights, ensuring there is always something new to sample and enjoy.

When you are ready to relax, Jacobite cruises are also a popular activity in the local area. The cruises pick up at various locations in the downtown area and will take visitors on select tours on the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness.

Despite the city’s somewhat moderate sea climate, Inverness still experiences cold temperatures. During the winter months, temperatures can drop to as low as zero. Although the yearly average for Inverness is about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, it is possible for temperatures to reach 86 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months. Visitors should also bear in mind that the local area tends to be somewhat wet as it does rain frequently in Inverness.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Inverness, Scotland

Aberdeen, Scotland

Aberdeen is one of Scotland's premier cities. Also known as the “Granite City” due to its large buildings made of granite, this wondrous city continues to attract visitors from around the world each year. Aberdeen is additionally famous for its enchanting waterfront and elaborate floral gardens found throughout the city.

Settlers first arrived in the region thousands of years ago, but the earliest records of the city of Aberdeen can be traced back to the 12th century. The city became famous as a prime location for commercial fishing. The city somehow managed to survive the turmoils of the Wars of the Three Kingdoms and the Battle of Aberdeen during the 17th century. The city also became bankrupt during the early 19th century. Aberdeen has since recovered from its tumultuous past and is known today as a major center of commerce and industry.

Aberdeen enjoys a rather mild climate throughout much of the year. Temperature extremes are rare, and most visitors and locals find the weather conditions to be quite pleasant. Consistent precipitation throughout the year provides adequate moisture. The consistent rainfall also keeps the landscapes green with lush fields of grass.

The city features many fun activities and sites of interest for visitors to enjoy. The Aberdeen Maritime Museum and Gordon Highlanders Museum feature exhibits detailing the history of Aberdeen. Several works of modern art are on display inside the Aberdeen Art Gallery. The nearby Fyvie, Delgatie and Tolquhon castles provide a further glimpse into the region's illustrious past. Other sites of interest around the city include the New Town House, Union Terrace Gardens and St. Mark's Church. Aberdeen also hosts many art and music festivals throughout the year.

Many people also come to Aberdeen to enjoy shopping and dining. Some of the city's most celebrated shops and restaurants can be found along Union Street. The Bon Accord Centre and St. Nicholas Centre are two of the city's largest shopping malls.

Aberdeen offers something special for every visitor. The history and culture of the city enhance its appeal. Some of the greatest aspects of Scotland are showcased within this fascinating metropolis.

Filed Under: Aberdeen, Europe, featured, Scotland

Perth, Scotland

Situated on the banks of River Tay is the city of Perth, Scotland. The history of Perth dates back more than 800 years.Visitors will find a host of activities and attractions to enjoy in Perth.

One of the most well known landmarks in Perth is Scone Palace. More than forty Scottish kings have been crowned at the Palace, including Bonnie Prince Charlie and Robert the Bruce. A replica of the Stone of Destiny, where the kings were once crowned, resides at the palace. It is believed that the original stone was stolen and brought to London by Edward I. The stone was finally returned to Scotland and is now in residence in Edinburgh Castle. Inside the palace, visitors can enjoy a tour that will allow them to view an impressive collection of French furniture, Queen Victoria’s boudoir, and a massive collection of porcelain.

The oldest building in the city is St. John’s Kirk. Located in the center of town, this building dates back to 1159. The Perth Museum and Art Gallery is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon as you learn more about the history of Perth and the surrounding area. The museum also possesses an interesting collection of Pictish Stones.

There are also many exciting events to enjoy in Perth, including the Game Conservatory Scottish Fair that takes place during the first weekend in July at Scone Palace. The festival is considered to be one of the premier countryside events in Scotland. Visitors of all ages will be entertained at the fair by the various displays and events, including clay pigeon shooting, terrier racing, falconry, fishing competitions, and more. Educational exhibitions are also held during the event as well as numerous fun and exciting children’s events.

The Perth Farmers Market, held the first Saturday of each month, is a great place to sample some of the freshest products in the local area. Here, you will find everything from leafy, green vegetables to homemade pies and cakes. The stall vendors are usually more than willing to chat with you about their wares and even provide tips on cooking methods and recipes.

As is the case with other areas in the British Isles, Perth has a maritime climate that features mild winters and cool summers. During the summer months, visitors can expect temperatures to range between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Average winter temperatures tend to range between 30 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Perth, Scotland, United Kingdom

Dundee, Scotland

In Scotland lies the beautiful city of Dundee, Scotland the city of jute, jam and journalism. This epithet says it all. Initially a borough during the medieval era, Dundee experienced rapid expansion during the 19th century primarily as a result of its jute industry. The city also experienced great prosperity and growth due to its jam industry and journalism.

Today, Dundee is also known by the phrase "One City, Many Discoveries" honoring its work in scientific research and development and also in reference to the RRS Discovery. The city has also flourished as a result of its biomedical and technological industries, which date back to the 1980s and lives by the mottos "Gift of God" and "With Thought and Purity".

Dundee is full of natural beauty that is absolutely breathtaking. It is situated on the Firth of Tay and the North Sea Coast of Scotland and is divided by a number of hills with the most notable being Craigowl Hill, which has an elevation of 1492 feet. Scenic valleys and extrusive rocks can be found around the city in addition to the most stunning parks.

Dundee ranks at number four regarding retail in the country and offers visitors a variety of retail choices. It includes a large city center with numerous shops, major department stores and boutique stores. The Murraygate and High Street is also known for its shopping atmosphere and offers shoppers the well known stores including Marks and Spencer and Monsoon. The Overgate Centre, the Gallagher Retail Park and Kingsway West Retail Park are also major shopping areas that will fulfill a shopper's dream.

Dundee is full of history and is famous for its landmarks. Historical sites that should not be missed include The Law, a hill with history that dates back to the Iron Ages. St Mary's Tower, which has been around since the 15th century is the most ancient structure in the city. The Wishart Arch is the only part of the city walls to remain and can be traced back to the 1500s. Dundee is also home to a number of castles, including the Mains Castle that dates back to 1562 and the Dudhope Castle, dating back to the 16th century.

Dundee has more of an Oceanic climate with an average annual high temperature of around 77.4°F. The months April through September are great times to visit, as these are the warmest months of the year.

Filed Under: Dundee, Europe, featured, United Kingdom

St. Andrews, Scotland

Originally the ecclesiastical capital of Scotland, St. Andrews is also famous for its castles and the third oldest university in the English speaking world, St. Andrews University. There is no shortage of museums and cathedrals to visit, as well as plenty of golf.

St. Andrews is known as the spiritual home of golf. The St. Andrews Royal and Ancient Golf Club met first in 1754, though golf was played in St. Andrews as early as the 15th century. The town has seven golf courses. Be sure to visit the most famous of them, the Old Course, and play 18 holes, or simply stop by the British Golf Museum near the front entrance.

The ruins of the castle of St. Andrews in Scotland

St. Andrews University was founded in 1410 and forms the center of town. One of its modern claims to fame is that it is the meeting place of the future King and Queen of England. Spend an afternoon strolling through the beautiful gardens and courtyards in between ivy-clad Gothic buildings. Attend a concert or public lecture while you are there, or enjoy evensong in the University chapel on a Wednesday or Sunday.

Ever wonder where the opening of Chariots of Fire was filmed? St. Andrews has gorgeous beaches, and the vast West Sands beach is where the movie was shot. There is lots of activity on the beach – from kite flying and sand yachting to horseback riding and tennis. Enjoy the craggy coastal walk with classic Scottish scenery.

Wander among the remains of the medieval St. Andrews Cathedral, which is still impressive. A museum on the site details the history of this cathedral which was Scotland's largest. It was largely destroyed during the Reformation. Next door at the Church of St. Regulus, climb the steep spiral staircase to the top of the 108-foot tower for breathtaking views of the cliffs and North Sea.

A visit to St. Andrews would not be complete without touring the ruins of the town's 13th century castle, the home of the bishops and archbishops of St. Andrews and the heart of the Church in medieval Scotland. There is an informative visitors center on site. One of the highlights of a visit to St. Andrews Castle is trekking down into the famous bottle dungeons and secret tunnels, part of the famous siege of 1546. Located just at the edge of the sea, some of the tunnels provide an escape route directly to the water.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Scotland, St. Andrews, United Kingdom

British Isles

The British Isles rise from under a water ledge of land that extends deep out into the Atlantic Ocean. The British Isles include two bigger islands: Ireland and Great Britain, as well as 5,000 smaller islands.

When people go to visit the British Isles, they often visit many of the islands in the area. The most popular islands on the British Isles are the Orkneys, the Isle of Wight and the Scilly Isles. Each island has its own unique style, charm and attractions, but they have some things in common as well. Because the islands are all within close proximity of each other, they have similar weather patterns. There are a few islands that do have slightly different weather, so travelers do want to pay attention to the time of year and location they are visiting.

There are plenty of indoor attractions on the British Isles in the case of bad weather, but most people enjoy visiting the British Isles because of all the wonderful things to do outdoors. Walking and hiking are very popular on the islands, as well as the tours of castles, ruins, manors and other relics left behind. For people who are history buffs, they will really enjoy looking for different things on each of the different islands.

The landscape on the British Isles brings plenty of people to enjoy their scenic beauty. The lovely gardens and the beautiful beaches with mile after mile of rugged coastline is something for all to see. People enjoy their holidays on the islands because they can get back to nature here. Most enjoy just taking a break from their work in the big city to relax and enjoy the stunning beauty in the British Isles.

Others visit the British Isles to partake in the many festivals they offer. Many plan their holidays around visiting the Isle of Wight to enjoy the many popular festivals they hold during the year. For those wanting to enjoy the bustle and crowds that come along with the festivals or for those who want to enjoy some solitude and peace by standing on the gorgeous coastlines, you can do all of this and more on the lovely British Isles.

Filed Under: British Isles, England, Europe, featured, Ireland, Isle of Man, Scotland, United Kingdom

Stirling, Scotland

Stirling, Scotland, Once the capital of Scotland, this small university city is a perfect destination for learning about Scotland's bloody past, seeing castles and churches, and enjoying beautiful scenery. Follow the history of Scotland at the breathtaking Stirling Castle. Tour the castle to learn more about its Renaissance architecture, and the great medieval battles that took place there. Great monarchs including Mary Queen of Scots lived here.

The Bannockburn Battlefield and Heritage Centre highlights one of the most significant Scottish victories during the First War of Scottish Independence in 1314, the Battle of Bannockburn. The brother of the Scottish King during this time, Edward Bruce, instigated the siege on Stirling Castle. There is a large statue of Bruce, and visitors will enjoy the opportunity to try on a set of authentic armor.

Another must-see historical attraction is the Gothic National Wallace Monument on Abbey Craig, commemorating Sir William (Braveheart) Wallace. This monument tells the story of Sir William, who is revered as a martyr and the Guardian of Scotland. Take the invigorating climb up to the monument or use the bus – the view of Stirling from the top of the monument is magnificent.

The Church of the Holy Rude is a tranquil place where many important people from Scotland's past are buried. It is the second oldest building in Scotland after Stirling Castle, founded in 1129. Located on the highest hill in the city, “Holy Rude” means “Holy Cross.” The church has a combination of Norman and Gothic architecture, with beautiful wooden ceilings and stained glass windows.

For a bit of adventure, spend an afternoon at the Blair Drummond Safari Park. The whole family will love a jeep ride to see the different animals, the play park, ziplining, and paddle boats, and a boat ride to the monkey island. The park also has a good cafe and gift shop.

If you can't imagine what life was like in a Scottish jail 150 years ago, visit Stirling's Old Town Jail. Take a live tour of this Victorian jail, and see the tiny prison cells, learn about the city's last hangman and the prison's governor, all with live actors.

Finally, meander around the stunning Falls of Falloch. Stunning waterfalls and a refreshing deep pool await you at the end of a short walk in the woods. This is truly a hidden gem and is a perfect spot for a picnic.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Scotland, Stirling

Glasgow, Scotland

As the largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is not only the main industrial center, but also offers an intriguing array of attractions, landmarks, and activities for visitors to enjoy. Situated at the west end of the Central Belt in Scotland, visitors will find Glasgow perched on the banks of the River Clyde. It is the presence of the River Clyde that has supported various communities around Glasgow for centuries. Outposts were later constructed in the area by the Romans as a way of keeping Britannia separate. Culture in Glasgow reached a pinnacle during the 19th century, and as a result, the city has been left with a wonderful legacy of both Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

First-time visitors to Glasgow may quickly notice the wealth of beautifully carved stonework and many lavish interiors that grace the city. Even outside the downtown area, Glasgow is home to an array of imposing tenements that were constructed from native blonde and red sandstone. Take a close look during the summer months and you will see that these impressive buildings positively glow.

Of all of the many impressive structures in the city, Glasgow Cathedral is easily one of the most famous. Situated in Cathedral Square, this beautiful structure provides a perfect example of stunning Gothic architecture. The cathedral dates from medieval times and was constructed on a site that was first consecrated in the year 397 AD.

Glasgow is also home to a wonderful collection of art galleries and museums. Several of these galleries and museums are operated by the city council. Consequently, visitors should be aware that most galleries are closed on Sundays and also close promptly at 5PM on other days. Most of the museums in Glasgow are free; however. When you are not exploring the city’s museums and galleries, you may wish to spend some time outdoors meandering through the city’s many spectacular parks. Glasgow Green is the most famous of these parks. The park was originally founded in 1450. Known by the locals as simply “The Green,” this park also serves as a venue for numerous open-air events and concerts throughout the year.

When visiting Glasgow, visitors should expect winters to be overcast and cool with temperatures averaging about 39 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer months, temperatures can vary on a daily basis, but tend to average in the 60s.

Given the wide array of parks, museums, galleries, and impressive architectural structures, it is easy to see why Glasgow is one of the most visited cities amongst the British Isles.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Glasgow, Scotland

Edinburgh Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland, has been the capital city since 1437 and is a delightful place to visit. There are many historical buildings that have been restored as living monuments mainly from the 1800s when the city was known as one of the most architecturally beautiful in the world. The OLD TOWN became a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its buildings, the medieval plan, underground vaults, and other features.

Even older is EDINBURGH CASTLE, which is Scotland’s major attraction to over a million visitors a year. The castle was built on a rock that is 70 million years old and which had Bronze Age men living on that rock as early as 850 BC. In the twelfth century King Malcolm III built this castle, the queen built a small chapel, and the son built an Abbey a mile to the east. These became the main focus of the town. Different invaders captured the castle over the years, and it had to be rebuilt in 1568.

If you would like to see another interesting castle, the medieval CRAIGMILLAR one is from the 14th century and is where Mary, Queen of Scots, recovered after an illness and the birth of her son. Be sure to also see the ST. GILES CATHEDRAL, which was dedicated in 1243 and is named for the patron saint of the town.

Are you a fan of SIR WALTER SCOTT? His marble monument is 60 meters high and is a tribute to the novelist and poet. He is sitting and writing and has his dog by his side. As you climb the 287 steps to the top, you will find 64 statues of his characters as you go along. What a sight!!

A special museum is the MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND, which has Scottish exhibitions representing 2,000 years of history. The free admission also allows you to enjoy Celtic and Viking treasures, inventions including a steam engine, science projects, and a fantastic view of the city from the Level 7 roof terrace.

The largest wildlife attraction in Scotland is the EDINBURGH ZOO. It is devoted to the welfare of its more than 1,000 animals and also is excellent at giving environmental education.

The ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA shows you what royal life was like when it sailed for 44 years with the Queen and the royal family to 600 ports in 135 countries. You are allowed to take pictures even of the private rooms as well as the decks and other sections.

You will no doubt want to take a day trip to northern Scotland to see LOCH NESS. This series of interlinked lochs covers 21 square miles, is almost 800 feet deep, and has underwater caves. Possible sightings of the Loch Ness dinosaur “monster” over the past 100 years makes this a famous attraction.

Filed Under: Edinburgh, Europe, featured, Scotland