Visit Scotland

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one night stay
two people
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Your gift break voucher is presented in a stylish silver envelope together with full booking information and details on accommodation choices available.

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If you’re looking to treat someone to a weekend break away in Scotland, why not surprise them with this Visit Scotland Gift break for two.

Once you have purchased your Visit Scotland Gift break, you will be able to spend time selecting the perfect location for your break from the wide range of locations featured on the right.

Whilst Scotland is famous for kilts, cabers and whiskey, there are plenty of surprises to be found in the highlands. For instance, the mysterious Glamis Castle which has more than its fair share of spooky stories including missing rooms, a rarely seen monster (who may or may not be a vampire) and a seat in the chapel reserved for the ‘Grey Lady’.

If that’s enough to drive you to drink then you can visit one of the hundreds of distilleries and sample some of the whiskies that Scotland is famous for, and the Spirit of Speyside Whisky festival is the perfect excuse to ‘taste’ as many as you can handle.

Whilst you’re in the region you might be lucky enough to witness the Golden Spurtle Porridge making championships, but if you fancy something a little less specialist, there are more mainstream festivals: the Wicker Man festival in Kircudbright and particularly the Edinburgh festival have become world renowned and are a showcase for much of the new talent throughout the UK. Set against a backdrop of stunning scenery for which the whole country is famous, you’ll be on track for a perfect break wherever you choose to spend your Scottish break.

locations

Aberdeenshire

Located on the East Coast of Scotland, Aberdeenshire shows signs of settlements dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze ages, meaning that even early man appreciated the natural beauty of the area and that is one of the things that really hasn’t changed much over the intervening years. For a truly royal experience, you can take a trip to Balmoral Castle, a Royal residence since 1852 when Queen Victoria purchased it with her husband, although it was soon found to be far too small and was completely rebuilt in 1856. The new building was designed to feature Scots Baronial style architecture and amendments to the original plans were made by Prince Albert himself. Now covering nearly 50,000 acres, the estate is still in working order and includes several herds of deer, grouse moors and the famous Highland cattle. There are plenty of other castles to visit in varying states of repair including the ruins of Dunnottar Castle which sits on a rocky outcrop over the North Sea from which you can enjoy spectacular views and maybe even spot of the rare birds which make their home there. Or if you fancy a castle which is still standing, you can visit Crathes Castle near Banchory, given to the Burnett of Leys family by Robert the Bruce himself and now owned and run by the National Trust and home to a significant portrait collection and, if you believe the rumours, a ghostly green lady who haunts one of the rooms. If you prefer to see what nature has had in store for Aberdeenshire, then why not take a trip to Burn O’Vat? A huge pothole thought to have been created by the movements of glacial ice sheets around 14,000 years ago, Burn O’Vat was supposedly used by Rob Roy as a hideout when he was evading the authorities, and now has a visitor centre where you can see taxidermy and topographical exhibits. For anyone who wants to try their luck spotting wildlife on a short break, Portlethen Moss is an acidic bog which supports a wide variety of plant and animal species native to the area. Or you can take a trip to one of the many designated nature reserves in the area such as Fowlsheugh, which is on the coast and features 70 meter cliff formations and is home to nesting colonies of seabirds such as Puffins, Razorbills, Kittwakes, Fulmars and Guillemots. Should you prefer to soak up some local culture, Aberdeenshire is home to a host of festivals. There’s the University of Aberdeen Writers’ festival, the Taste of Grampian festival which serves as a showcase for the regions finest producers of gourmet food, includes cookery demonstrations with celebrity chefs and offers visitors a chance to sample some of the highest quality local fare. Aberdeenshire is also perfect for a city break with something to suit everyone’s tastes in entertainment. Union Street combines a wide choice of shops with the granite architecture for which the city is renowned, and the West End is home to unique boutique and designer outlets for those who are looking for something a little different. Aberdeenshire has plenty to offer any modern visitor, so no matter what your interests a stay in Aberdeenshire will leave you with fond memories.
Argyllshire

Lying on the west coast of Scotland, Argyllshire is a fantastic destination for a short break, whether you prefer island hopping or window shopping and if you like to be beside the seaside then you might find yourself enjoying some of the most spectacular sea views in the UK. One of the most famous areas of Argyllshire is the Mull of Kintyre, not least because of the song, but also for its unique charms. Located at the extreme south western tip of the Kintyre peninsula, you can see the other neighbouring islands and Ballycastle on the Antrim coast of Ireland and on clear days you can also make out Malin Head in Donegal. With famously ferocious currents, the peninsula is not the place for a leisurely dip in the sea, but if you come at the right time of year you can enjoy the Mull of Kintyre Music festival which plays host to a wide variety of Scottish and international bands. There are plenty of other islands to explore off the west coast of Scotland, each with their own unique heritage and culture and fascinating history, so if you fancy a little island hopping you can learn all about how island life differs from that on the mainland and enjoy the hospitality of the locals. Any firm foodie will love the chance to sample some of the abundant local seafood and if you’re really committed to trying the very best then you can time your Argyllshire break to include the Tarbert Seafood Festival. Featuring demonstrations from top chefs, parades, music, a market where you can pick up some treats to take home with you and the chance to witness the crowning of the Seafood Queen. For those who like to relax to the soothing sounds of jazz music, your short break could encompass the annual Bute Jazz Festival where artists from around the world perform amazing music. With bands playing a variety of styles, from Gypsy jazz to Louisiana Ragtime with some swing and modern jazz thrown in as well, there is something to give any jazz fan the time of their life. If you fancy something with a little more white knuckle action, then the Tiree Wave Classic is the UK’s premier windsurfing competition, attracting hundreds of visitors and surfers from around the world to its perfect surf. With high average wind speeds, exposure to the North Atlantic swell and beautiful beaches of white sand, it’s the perfect place to surf and even spectators can expect to find themselves holding their breath as the waves roll in. No matter how you prefer to spend your time, a short break in Argyllshire will offer everything you need to enjoy yourself.
Fife

Still commonly known as the Kingdom of Fife by the people of Scotland, Fife was once one of the kingdoms identified by the Picts who inhabited north eastern Scotland in the late Iron Age. They spoke the now-extinct Pictish language and a variety of sources chart their history from the 6th century until their identity began to merge with that of the surrounding settlers. Modern visitors on a short break to Fife can see evidence of their habitation in the form of Pictish stones, and although there is still some confusion over their purpose and meaning, they remain beautiful reminders of the area’s rich history and their designs can be seen on plenty of local crafts and in folk art. Fife is perhaps most famous as the location of the Firth of Forth, an estuary of the River Forth formed by a glacier in the last glacial period, and known as Bodotria in Roman times. As well as a beautiful area, home to plenty of picturesque villages, there is also the groundbreaking Forth Bridge, the first bridge in Britain to be constructed from steel and used as a reference point for British sailors returning from World War I, a practice which continued until the 1990s. As home to 4,961 listed buildings and 48 conservation areas, Fife has plenty to entertain any visitor with an interest in local history and plenty of them are open to visitors today. Falkland Palace is one such place, acquired by the Scottish Crown from MacDuff of Fife in the 14th century, the palace does have some grisly moments in its history. The First Duke of Albany, Robert Stewart threw his nephew in prison at Falkland Castle where he eventually died from starvation and neglect. The resulting controversy eventually resulted in the down fall of the Albany Stewarts, but today’s visitors can explore its extensive gardens and take in the incredible interior of the Chapel Royal, the tapestry gallery and even the bakehouse where you can get a taste of what it would have been like to be in service for the families that lived there. If all that history just isn’t enough for you, then you should take a trip to Ravenscraig Castle in Kirkcaldy which dates back to around 1460 and is one of the earlier examples of a defensive castle in Scotland. Thought to be one of the first in the country to be designed specifically to withstand artillery fire, the king who commissioned the design was killed, ironically enough, in an accident involving a loaded cannon. Naturally defended on three sides by steep cliffs, a visit to the castle is a chance to enjoy spectacular views as well as a glimpse into the history of the area, and it may have been this spectacular setting that inspired Sir Walter Scott’s ballad which tells the story of ‘the lovely Rosabelle’ who tragically drowns whilst trying to cross the First of Forth for a family ball. Fife also has plenty of entertainment, so if you take a short break to the area then you won’t be short of opportunities for a night on the town. There are theatres, centres for creative arts, and music venues which all host hundreds of fantastic shows, events and productions over the course of the year, so you are sure to find something to suit your tastes, from bands to ballet or even a spot of bowling, Fife has it all.
Inverness-shire

Inverness-shire includes the Isles of Harris, Skye, Barra and Benbecula, so a short trip to the area could include a boat trip to one of these places where the traditional way of life has been preserved and everything the inhabitants need must be either made in situ or acquired from the mainland. Of the islands of Inverness-shire Skye is probably the most famous, having been memorialised in song and exhibiting some unique geological features which make it the perfect place for anyone with an interest in natural history to visit on a short break. The Cuillin Hills and the mountain of Blaven are hugely popular with climbers and walkers and offer the chance to spot some of the wildlife which lives on the island such as the red deer, Golden Eagle, pygmy shrew and if you are particularly sharp-eyed and lucky you might even see an otter or two. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can take a hike up Glen Nevis where the road takes you almost to the summit. The weather can be a little unpredictable, but that’s just a good excuse to take the West Highland Railway back to the ground. For more experienced climbers that want to take on the ultimate challenge of Ben Nevis, there are plenty of professionals on hand to give you all the information you need to tackle the highest mountain in Scotland. Whilst many of the historic buildings which once stood in Inverness-shire were destroyed in the Jacobite rising, but visitors on a short break to the area can learn anything they might want to know at the Gleniffan National Trust Centre or at the West Highland Museum. For anyone who enjoys unsullied landscapes, beautiful coastal views and the chance to immerse yourself in the traditions of north west Scotland, a short break to Inverness-shire will provide all the fun and adventure you could possibly want.
Isle of Arran

Despite being just 19 miles long and 10 wide, the Isle of Arran has a remarkable variety of stunning landscapes, beautiful villages and traditional charm. It is a perfect destination for a short break, whether you are looking for an action packed break, a chance to relax or an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of the area. The rugged and mountainous north of the island is perfect territory for anyone who is keen on walking, from strenuous hikes to more gentle strolls, whilst the more temperate southern reaches have opportunities to explore the countryside and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the island environment. There are plenty of opportunities to spot the native wildlife such as red deer, the occasional ptarmigan, pheasants and, because there are no grey squirrels on the island at all, a veritable abundance of red squirrels call the island their home. Bird watchers will be in seventh heaven as the Isle of Arran is a haven for many wetland species such as herons, merganser and eider which are joined in the winter months by widgeon and golden eye. The northerly reaches of the island are inhabited by a variety of birds of prey, from buzzards, peregrines and kestrels to sparrow hawks, hen harriers and even golden eagles on rare occasions, so keep your camera handy and you might just capture the shot of a lifetime. The Isle of Arran is also home to plenty of traditional arts, crafts and industries, with one of the most popular amongst visitors being the distillery where Arran Single Malt whisky is produced. You can take a tour of the facilities, learn some of the secrets of the distiller’s art and taste the final product to see for yourself whether the combination of clear water and fine ingredients makes a dram to be proud of. So take a short break to the Isle of Arran, meet the locals, both human and not, and experience the soothing pace of traditional island life.
Isle of Mull

With evidence of the Isle of Mull having been inhabited since the end of the last Ice Age, it will come as no surprise that a short break to the area will give you a chance to learn more about the island’s fascinating history as evidenced through the remains of many ancient civilisations found there. Legend has it that a wrecked Spanish galleon lies off the coast of Tobermory, although the facts have been in dispute for as long as the tale has been told, but anyone searching for hidden treasure will find themselves amply provided for by what lies above the waterline on this fascinating island. For some more solid historical exploration, Torosay Castle makes a great place to visit. Built in the Scottish Baronial style, this 150 year old building is open to the public who can take a tour around its interior where many works of art, antiques and historical artefacts are on display. The castle is set in beautiful grounds where a team of hard-working horticulturalists maintain a collection of rare and unique flowers, plants and trees. Generations of hard work have resulted in a glorious garden, and planting believed to have been started around 1900 has been added to and improved over the years, including a tree which is thought to predate the castle itself and now stands as a reminder of the castle’s place in history. For those who want to take time out to relax and enjoy the views of the sea, the Isle of Mull has miles of beachfront so you can choose your perfect spot. Market bay is a secluded and remote stretch of sand, only accessible by a rather adventurous scramble or a slightly more sedate two mile walk, but the rewards at the end are definitely worth it. Laggan Sands was voted in the top ten beaches for spotting wildlife in 2006, and the accolade is well deserved as eagle eyed visitors might see seals and even golden eagles. So take a short break to the Isle of Mull and indulge your passions, whatever they may be.
Midlothian

Midlothian may be small in size, but it is packed with places to go, things to do and enough entertainment to make any short break to the area a great experience. Like much of Scotland, it is veritably littered with historical landmarks, charting the evolution and development of the area’s political, social and cultural heritage. There are plenty of ancient buildings which offer an insight into the importance of the area in Scottish history, such as Hawthorneden Castle which is a 15th century ruin with a 17th century house attached. Most interestingly, the whole structure sits on top of a series of man-made caves which are thought to have been in use for much longer than the buildings above. One of the caves serves as a dovecot which has 370 compartments, and it believed that King Robert the Bruce once took shelter in the caves with Sir Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie. Another significant contributor to Scottish life, both in terms of industry and the experiences of the workers, is mining, and there’s no better place to learn everything you could wish to know than the National Mining Museum. The collections of papers, artefacts and items of interest include over 60,000 pieces, which tell the tales of those who spent their days at the coal face through social history. There is also plenty of archive material, photographs and books to give visitors a real sense of how the mining industry was once at the heart of life in the area. If you view your short break to Midlothian as a chance to blow away the cobwebs and get outside in the glory of nature then you will have plenty of opportunity. The area is home to two country parks, Vogrie and Roslin Glen, where you can walk along a nature trail, spot wildlife and unusual plants in the undergrowth and enjoy fantastic photo opportunities in beautiful settings. Whatever takes your fancy, you can indulge yourself on a short break to Midlothian.
Morayshire

Lying to the north of Scotland, Morayshire is a largely mountainous region which encompasses some of the most beautiful unspoilt scenery in the country. Like much of Scotland, the area shows evidence of its early inhabitants and is rich with ruins and remains which tell the story of its history. Elgin Cathedral is one of the most imposing and awe-inspiring sites, and the remains of the structures on the site offer visitors a chance to learn about the building’s importance in local life. The first church to have been built on the site dates back to the 13th century, and this was then extended and enlarged to make it the second largest cathedral in the country. The next few hundred years saw a cycle of destruction and rebuilding take place, where political and religious turmoil led the structure to be damaged and survivors defiantly rebuilt. Today the remains of the structures give visitors a chance to imagine what life must have been like for those who lived, worked and were laid to rest around the cathedral. Visitors on a short break to Morayshire can also enjoy the chance to follow the Malt Whisky Trail, and with a large number of distilleries in the area you can learn everything you could wish to know about Scotland’s most famous drink. The Dufftown Whisky Museum is the perfect place to find out the secrets of the distillers craft, from ingredients and methodology to the secret world of whisky smuggling. Exhibits include examples of illegal stills seized by HM Customs and Excise to demonstrate how the industry has evolved over the years. Whatever you look for in a short break, Morayshire has plenty to offer visitors, from ancient ruins and historical artefacts to night life, entertainment and the chance to indulge your taste for malt whiskey at every turn.
Perthshire

Known as the ‘Big County’, Perthshire benefits from one of the most varied landscapes in Scotland, from fertile valleys to high mountains and everything in between. There are plenty of places of interest to visit on a short break to Perthshire, from historical sites and landmarks to evidence of the regions role in modern Scottish culture. Many of the most famous sites are known for their association with the Shakespeare play Macbeth, such as Birnham Wood and Dunsinane Hill. Birnham Wood was used as camouflage for Malcolm Canmore’s army, and is still home to a tree believed to be around 900 years old which might have been growing there when the battle took place. Dunsinane Hill’s importance in the defeat of Macbeth may have been exaggerated in Shakespeare’s play, but the remains of two hill forts are still visible from a battle believed to have taken place in 1054. Visitors with an interest in ‘the Scottish Play’ can walk in the footsteps of the characters that have shaped the country both politically and culturally. One of the other aspects of Scottish life which has had a great impact on the culture and traditions of the region is the musical heritage which is apparent wherever you go. The 18th century saw Perthshire lead the way in Scottish traditional music, and local musicians have been recording historical, personal and sometimes wildly exaggerated mythical events in song for hundreds of years. Modern Perthshire has a thriving music scene which includes jazz, classical, rock and of course folk music, all of which attract musicians from all over the world and can be enjoyed in local concert halls, pubs and bars. Whatever brings you to Scotland, Perthshire is sure to bring it to you, from glorious countryside, beautiful architecture, a fascinating feast of culture and a warm welcome from the locals.
Renfrewshire

As a county, Renfrewshire may be relatively small, but that’s not to say that a short break to the area will leave you without plenty to do to. There are a wide variety of activities and entertainment which will keep you amply occupied and might even require another visit to see and do everything you want to. Although situated on the border with Glasgow, Renfrewshire has plenty of open spaces and beautiful countryside to tempt visitors into the great outdoors such as Castle Semple Loch. Once a part of an estate of the same name, the loch is now home to a water-sports centre so the more adventurous visitor can take to the waters, but those who enjoy the more relaxing art of fishing can try their hand at catching some of the pike, eel, roach and perch which reside in its waters. If you prefer to spot wildlife above the water line, the RSPB nature reserve at Lochwinnoch is the place to catch sight of some of the rarer species which make the area their home, including the grasshopper warbler, the great crested grebe and the great spotted woodpecker. Renfrewshire also has a rich and fascinating history, as evidence by buildings such as Paisley Abbey, a former Cluniac monastery founded in 1163 on the site of a previous Celtic church which was founded in the 6th century. Despite an unfortunate succession of fires and the collapse of the main tower over the centuries, a full restoration means that modern visitors can explore the abbey in all its splendour. Artefacts include a slate depicting musical notation which is thought to be the oldest example of polyphonic music in Scotland. A short break to Renfrewshire is a chance to learn about the fascinating history of the area as well as exploring the more modern treasures hidden all over the county.
Ross-shire

Located to the far north of Scotland, Ross-shire is known for its mountainous regions and includes some of the most dramatic scenery in British Isles. The Torridon Hills form an imposing backdrop to the county’s beautiful open spaces, making Ross-shire a great place to visit on a short break for any nature lovers, keen photographers or anyone who just wants to immerse themselves in some unspoilt countryside. A trip to Ross, as it is commonly known amongst the locals, is also a chance to step back in time and relive the best years of your life with a visit to the Highland Museum of Childhood. The museum displays a variety of collections and exhibits which tell the tale of childhood in the area, where most people were employed in hard manual labour and luxury and spare money was very hard to come by. Harking back to the days when children made their own entertainment, the exhibits also include several collections of toys and games of the kind popular amongst children before technology took over. You can marvel at the miniature wonder of the dolls’ house collections, enjoy the memories of some of the traditional games on display and remind yourself of the pleasures of a simpler time. For some more adult entertainment, and of course a chance to really experience traditional Scottish fare, a visit to Glen Ord Distillery will give you a unique insight into how whisky is produced and its importance in the local culture. You can take a tour of the production areas and watch the master distillers at work as well as tasting some of the finished product at the end. From the wild and wonderful glory of nature to the relaxing and welcoming atmosphere of the attractions and experiences available, your short break to Ross will give you a chance to experience all aspects of Scottish life.
South Lanarkshire

Although it contains many of Glasgow’s commuter towns and villages, South Lanarkshire has plenty of historical sites, beautiful countryside and bustling urban areas for visitors to enjoy on a short break to the area. Chatelherault Country Park is one such spot, and its name derives from the French town of the same name whose dukedom was held by the Duke of Hamilton, and it is the hunting lodge of the now demolished Hamilton Castle which forms the centre of the country park. The restored buildings are home to a visitor centre which comprises a display gallery and exhibitions which tell the story of the house itself as well as the local area. You can also take a stroll around the grounds which include 10 miles of pathway through ancient woodland, including some of the oldest in the country, and an array of wildlife including deer, otters, kingfishers, badgers and more. For those who enjoy the opportunity to get out and enjoy the bounty of nature, then a visit to Little Sparta, a garden in the village of Dunsyre, just might take your breath away. Designed and created by artist and poet Ian Hamilton Finlay and his wife Sue, the Arcadian garden includes sculptures of concrete poetry and two temples alongside over 275 other works of art created by the artist himself in collaboration with other craftspeople. Voted as ‘the nation’s greatest work of art’ by a poll of artists in the Scotland on Sunday paper, it is definitely worth a trip on a short break to South Lanarkshire. If you’re planning a trip to South Lanarkshire, you can be sure that you will have ample entertainment as the area is also home to Hamilton Park Racecourse which hosts plenty of race events as well as concerts and festivals, meaning that a short break to the area is a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.
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