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 The Museum of Lead Mining, Wanlockhead, By
Biggar, Lanarkshire ML12 6UT. Tel: 01659 74387. Located in Scotland's
highest village, visitors have a guided tour of the Lochgell
Lead Mine, the Miners' Library, miners' cottages and industrial
relics such as a beam engine dating back to the 1700s. leadminingmuseum.co.uk.
About 8 miles southwest
of Abington. |
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Coulter
Motte, Biggar - Coulter Motte Hill is the site of an early medieval
castle mound which dated from the 11th Century. An example of
a Norman castle mound, it would have been surrounded by a moat
and have a timber tower. It is now under the ownership of Historic
Scotland. About 10 miles northeast of Abington. |
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The Southern Upland Way is Scotland's longest
walk at 212 miles. It stretches west to east from Portpatrick,
over the Mull of Galloway, to the North Sea cliffs at Cocksburnspath.
It passes through some of Scotland's most beautiful and varied
scenery. The Southern
Upland Way passes 8 miles south of Abington. |
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Balloch Castle, Loch Lomond Tel: 01389 758216.
Balloch Castle Country Park lies within the 170 square miles
of Loch Lomond Regional Park. The visitor centre is in Balloch
Castle itself, but this is a modern version, built in 1808. The
original castle was built in 1238 by the Earls of Lennox (before
they built a more secure stronghold on Inchmurrin Island on the
loch). There is now only a mound and a depression that was the
moat, surviving from the original castle. About 4 miles north of Alexandria. |
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Geilston
Garden NTS, Cardross, Dumbarton, G82 5HD. Tel: 01389 849187.
This enchanting garden was first opened to visitors in 1998.
It has many interesting features including a walled garden with
glasshouses, a heather garden, herbaceous and mixed shrub borders
and a spectacular Sequoiadendron giganteum.
About 4 miles west of
Alexandria. |
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Ayr Racecourse (Tel: 01292264179) is situated
in the beautiful countryside of Ayrshire and is home to the Scottish
Grand National, the Ayr Gold Cup and a host of other valuable
races. Hosting both flat and national hunt fixtures, Ayr Racecourse
will provide all the thrills and excitement of a day out at the
races for you and your family. ayr-racecourse.co.uk. Location: On the outskirts of Ayr. |
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Burns
National Heritage Park, Murdoch's Lane, Alloway, Ayr KA7 4PQ.
Tel: 01292 443 700. The monument opened to the public in 1823
and has since become a place of pilgrimage for admirers of Scotland’s
National Poet and a focus for events celebrating his life and
work. burnsheritagepark.com. About 1 mile south of Ayr. |
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Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Alloway by Ayr KA7
4LD. Tel: 01292 441210. Goats, Deer, Ponies, Reptiles, Emu, Lemur,
Prairie Dogs, Buffalo - and lots more!.www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk.
About 4 miles south of
Ayr. |
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Croy
Brae (Electric Brae). Travel south down the A719 between Dunure
and Croy Bay and experience the world famous Electric Brae (or
Croy Brae). Care must be taken, but you can stop your car on
the hill, leave the brakes off, and very slowly your car will
roll up the hill! Whilst there is a slope of 1 in 86 upwards
from the bend at the Glen, the configuration of the land on either
side of the road provides an optical illusion making it look
as if the slope is going the other way. Therefore, a stationary
car on the road with the brakes off will appear to move slowly
uphill. The term 'Electric Brae' dates from a time when it was
incorrectly thought to be a phenomenon caused by electric or
magnetic attraction within the Brae. About 9 miles south of Ayr. |
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Culzean Castle, Maybole, Ayrshire KA19 8LE.
Tel: 01655 884 455. Pronounced "cullane", Culzean was
the former home of the Marquess of Ailsa but is now owned by
the National Trust for Scotland. It lies with the Culzean Castle
Country Park and is open to the public. The castle is famous
for appearing on the back of five pound notes issued by the Royal
Bank of Scotland, and is notable for the Oval Staircase and Circular
saloon. There is a Deer Park, Gas Court, Fountain Court and Swan
Pond, mature parklands and gardens. About 12 miles south of Ayr. |
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The National Park Gateway Centre, Loch Lomond
Shores, Ben Lomond Way, Balloch G83 8QL. Tel: 01389 722 199.
The West Highland Way is 152km (95 miles) long. The walk links
Milngavie to Fort William - from the outskirts of Scotland’s
largest city to the foot of its highest mountain, following the
shores of its largest freshwater loch. Around 50,000 people walk
parts of it every year. www.west-highland-way.co.uk . It passes through the centre of Balmaha
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Loch
Lomond is the largest expanse of freshwater in Great Britain.
The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park encompasses around
720 sq miles of some of the finest scenery in Scotland. It is
an area of contrasts from rolling lowland landscapes in the south
to high mountains in the north, and has many lochs and rivers,
forests and woodlands. Balmaha is located on the east shore.www.lochlomond-trossachs.org. |
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Balloch Castle, Loch Lomond Tel: 01389 758216.
Balloch Castle Country Park lies within the 170 square miles
of Loch Lomond Regional Park. The visitor centre is in Balloch
Castle itself, but this is a modern version, built in 1808. The
original castle was built in 1238 by the Earls of Lennox (before
they built a more secure stronghold on Inchmurrin Island on the
loch). There is now only a mound and a depression that was the
moat, surviving from the original castle. About 10 miles south of Balmaha . |
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Moat Park Heritage Centre, Biggar.Tel: 01899
221050 One of a series of museums and places of interest within
the town of Biggar. Meet an Iron Age family or a Roman soldier.
See the 'Menzies Moffat' tapestry. In the centre of Biggar. |
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 Biggar
Gasworks Museum Tel: 01899 221050 Find out how gas was made from
coal in the only preserved gasworks in Scotland. This started
life in 1836 and produced gas from coal for lighting, heating
and cooking. Biggar Gas Works remains just as it was when it
closed in 1973 following the arrival of North Sea gas. In the centre
of Biggar. |
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Coulter Motte, Biggar - Coulter Motte Hill is the site of an
early medieval castle mound which dated from the 11th Century.
An example of a Norman castle mound, it would have been surrounded
by a moat and have a timber tower. It is now under the ownership
of Historic Scotland. About
1.5 miles southwest of Biggar. |
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 New
Lanark World Heritage Site, South Lanarkshire Tel: 01555 661345
Discover the fascinating history of New Lanark and Robert Owen
in our award-winning Visitor Centre. About 11 miles west of Biggar. |
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 Falls of Clyde
Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve, New Lanark Tel: 01555 665262.
Located near the World Heritage village of New Lanark, the reserve
covers 59 hectares, has woodland along the River Clyde gorge
and four spectacular waterfalls. The Falls of Clyde is owned
by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Scotland's leading wildlife conservation
organisation. It is a spectacular reserve with unrivalled opportunities
to view peregrine falcons, badgers and bats. About 11 miles west of Biggar. |
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The West Highland Way is 152km (95 miles)
long. The walk links Milngavie to Fort William - from the outskirts
of Scotland’s largest city to the foot of its highest mountain,
following the shores of its largest freshwater loch. Around 50,000
people walk parts of it every year. It passes through the centre of Bridge of Orchy. |
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 The West
Highland Way is 152km (95 miles) long.
The walk links Milngavie to Fort William - from the outskirts
of Scotland’s largest city to the foot of its highest mountain,
following the shores of its largest freshwater loch. Around 50,000
people walk parts of it every year. It passes through the village of Crianlarich. |
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Ben More (1174 metres)
rises impressively above Glen Dochart just east of Crianlarich
and is the highest mountain south of Strath Tay and one of the
most imposing in the southern highlands. The sweep of its northern
slopes rising a thousand metres from glen to summit are very
obvious and a challenge to hillwalkers. The traverse of Ben More
and its equally fine southern twin, Stob Binnein (1165 metres)
is one of the classic hillwalks in the southern highlands. About 3 miles
east of Crianlarich. |
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Dunoon Castle. Between the two bays of Dunoon
is a hilly nose of land sticking out into the estuary. This is
the site of Dunoon Castle, once a major stronghold and built
some time around 1050. It had been abandoned by 1650 and today
nothing remains beyond a few grassy lumps on top of the hill
that provides an excellent viewpoint over the town and the Firth
of Clyde. Location: On
the outskirts of Dunoon. |
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Dunoon
Castle House Museum, Argyll Gardens (opposite the ferry landing
stage), Dunoon, Argyll. Tel. 01369 701422.
The Museum traces the
development of the Cowal peninsula from prehistoric times to
the present day. Notable are a fine Neolithic pot and an outstanding
collection of Clyde steamer models. Four rooms recreate the Victoria
lifestyle of Dunoon residents. www.castlehouse
museum.org.uk. Location:
On the outskirts of Dunoon. |
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David
Livingstone Centre, 165 Station Road, Blantyre, South Lanarkshire,
G72 9BY. Tel: 01698 823140. Situated within 20 acres of gardens
and parkland, and once home to 24 families, the tenement was
converted into a museum in 1929 and charts Livingstone`s life
and explorations in Africa, with many of his travel aids including
diaries, scientific and navigational equipment.
About 3 miles northeast
of East Kilbride. |
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Hamilton Park Racecourse, Bothwell Road, Hamilton
ML3 0DW. Tel: 01698 283806. Hamilton Park is conveniently located
just off the M74. Racegoers can enjoy flat racing throughout
the season. About 4 miles
east of East Kilbride. |
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Bargany Gardens, Girvan, KA26 9QL Ayrshire.
A woodland garden with lily pond, walled garden and rock garden.
Picnic area. About 4 miles
northeast of Girvan. |
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Souter
Johnnie's Cottage, Main Road, Kirkoswald, South Ayrshire, KA19
8HY. Tel: 01655 760603. This cottage was the home of souter (shoemaker)
John Davidson and his family. Souter Johnnie was immortalised
by Burns in the poem Tam O’ Shanter. The thatched cottage,
built in 1785, is furnished in period style and contains Burns
memorabilia. It also contains a workshop displaying the tools
of a village souter. About 6 miles northeast of Girvan. |
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Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Alloway by Ayr KA7
4LD. Tel: 01292 441210. Goats, Deer, Ponies, Reptiles, Emu, Lemur,
Prairie Dogs, Buffalo - and lots more!www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk.
About 12 miles north of
Girvan. |
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Croy
Brae (Electric Brae). Travel south down the A719 between Dunure
and Croy Bay and experience the world famous Electric Brae (or
Croy Brae). Care must be taken, but you can stop your car on
the hill, leave the brakes off, and very slowly your car will
roll up the hill! Whilst there is a slope of 1 in 86 upwards
from the bend at the Glen, the configuration of the land on either
side of the road provides an optical illusion making it look
as if the slope is going the other way. Therefore, a stationary
car on the road with the brakes off will appear to move slowly
uphill. The term 'Electric Brae' dates from a time when it was
incorrectly thought to be a phenomenon caused by electric or
magnetic attraction within the Brae. About 10 miles north of Girvan. |
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Culzean Castle, Maybole, Ayrshire KA19 8LE.
Tel: 01655 884 455. Pronounced "cullane", Culzean was
the former home of the Marquess of Ailsa but is now owned by
the National Trust for Scotland. It lies with the Culzean Castle
Country Park and is open to the public. The castle is famous
for appearing on the back of five pound notes issued by the Royal
Bank of Scotland, and is notable for the Oval Staircase and Circular
saloon. There is a Deer Park, Gas Court, Fountain Court and Swan
Pond, mature parklands and gardens. About 8 miles north of Girvan. |
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Cathkin Braes Country Park covers a large area
in the south east of Glasgow. It is a familiar landmark reaching
200 metres above sea level, the highest point in Glasgow, and
has panoramic views over the city. The park is approximately
five miles south of the city centre. It is recognised as an area
of outstanding natural beauty and therefore there are no formal
facilities in the park. Car parking is available in lay-byes
along the B759, Cathkin Road. Location:
On the outskirts of Glasgow. |
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Gallery
of Modern Art, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AH. Tel: 0141
229 1996. The Gallery of Modern Art is located in the centre
of Glasgow, just off Buchanan Street and close to Central Station. Location:
In the centre of Glasgow. |
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Located in the West End of Glasgow, The Botanic
Gardens are a large parkland housing several huge glasshouses.
The Kibble Palace is one of the largest glasshouses in Britain
and contains tree ferns from Australia and New Zealand and plants
from Africa, the Americas and the Far East. Botanic Gardens,
730 Great Western Road, Queen Margaret Drive, Glasgow G12 0UE,
(near Hillhead Underground Station). Tel: 0141 334 2422. Location: In the centre of Glasgow. |
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The
Forth and Clyde Canal - The Great Canal, as it was called in
its early days, was built from east to west, and the whole construction
took 22 years, including a 7 year break in which no work was
carried out due to lack of funds. The canal goes from the Forth
at Grangemouth to Bowling on the Clyde. The Forth and Clyde Canal
Society was formed in 1980 to campaign for the canal's restoration.
Old canalside buildings became houses, pubs or restaurants. More
boats appeared on the water and more walkers, cyclists and fishing
folk used the towpath. Boat Charters / Hires. Tel: 0141 772.1620.
forthandclyde.org.uk. Location: On the outskirts of Glasgow. |
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Firhill Park - the home of Partick Thistle
F.C. Firhill Stadium, 80 Firhill Road, Glasgow, G20 7AL. Tel:
0141 579 1971. Location:
On the outskirts of Glasgow. |
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The
King's Theatre Glasgow opened in 1904. (Tel: 0141 240 1111).
The Mitchell Theatre was built between 1873, and after a fire
was reconstruction in 1972. (Tel: 0141 287 4855). Location: In the centre of Glasgow. |
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Glasgow Science Centre offers many activities.
The Science Mall overlooks the Clyde and has three floors packed
with exhibits, cafes and shop. Hands-on exhibits, workshops,
science shows, and ScottishPower Planetarium. The IMAX Cinema
has a screen bigger than a 5-a-side football pitch. Tel: 0871
540 1000. www.glasgowsciencecentre.org. Location: In the centre of Glasgow. |
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Ibrox
Stadium - home of Rangers F.C, is about 3 miles West from the
city centre. Glasgow Airport is about 7 miles. The Ibrox Underground
station is immediately adjacent to the Stadium on Copland Road. About 3 miles
west of Glasgow. |
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The Tall Ship at Glasgow Harbour is one of
Glasgow's leading visitor attractions. It is also one of the
cheapest days out. Glasgow Harbour is a new waterfront regeneration
project in Glasgow. Disabled access exists throughout most areas
of the ship and disabled toilet facilities are also available.
Stobcross Road, Glasgow, G3 8QQ. Tel: 0141 222 2513. www.thetallship.com.
Location: In the centre
of Glasgow. |
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McLean Museum & Art Gallery, 15 Kelly
Street, Greenock, Inverclyde PA16 8JX. Tel: 01475 715624. Ship
and engine models, natural history, ethnography and excellent
fine art collection. About
2 miles east of Gourock. |
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The
Kempock Stone is a Standing Stone, also known as Granny Kempock
and Granny Kempock's stone, this 6ft megalith was once a landmark
to ships passing Kempock point. Location: On the outskirts of Gourock. |
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McLean Museum & Art Gallery, 15 Kelly
Street, Greenock, Inverclyde PA16 8JX. Tel: 01475 715624. Ship
and engine models, natural history, ethnography and excellent
fine art collection. Location:
In the centreof Greenock. |
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The
Kempock Stone is a Standing Stone, also known as Granny Kempock
and Granny Kempock's stone, this 6ft megalith was once a landmark
to ships passing Kempock point. About 4 miles west of Greenock. |
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Newark Castle, Port Glasgow is a fine and
well-preserved building sitting on the south shore of the Firth
of Clyde and enjoying wonderful views across the river. Its setting
is an unexpected one. It lies close to the centre of Port Glasgow
and immediately to its west is a shipyard. Newark Castle came
into state care in 1909 and is now a property of Historic Scotland
with excellent visitor facilities. About 3 miles east of Greenock. |
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David
Livingstone Centre, 165 Station Road, Blantyre, South Lanarkshire,
G72 9BY. Tel: 01698 823140. Situated within 20 acres of gardens
and parkland, and once home to 24 families, the tenement was
converted into a museum in 1929 and charts Livingstone`s life
and explorations in Africa, with many of his travel aids including
diaries, scientific and navigational equipment.
About 2 miles from Hamilton. |
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Hamilton Park Racecourse, Bothwell Road, Hamilton
ML3 0DW. Tel: 01698 283806. Hamilton Park is conveniently located
just off the M74. Racegoers can enjoy flat racing throughout
the season. Location:
On the outskirts of Hamilton. |
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Inveraray Castle, Inverary is a remarkable
piece of architecture incorporating Baroque, Palladian and Gothic.The
castle is still the home for the chief of the Campbell clan,
also known as the Duke of Argyll. Only a portion of the castle
is open to the public and no cameras or video equipment are allowed
into the interior of the castle. The castle was built in 1744
by the third Duke of Argyll. The interior of the castle was finished
in 1771. www.inveraray-castle.com. Location: On the outskirts of Inveraray. |
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Inveraray
Maritime Museum, The Pier, Inverary PA32 8UY. Tel: 01499 302213.
The museum collection is displayed aboard the Arctic Penguin,
a three-masted schooner built in 1911. The ship is an excellent
example of a riveted iron vessel from the period of the Titanic
and the exhibition relates to the maritime history of the River
Clyde and the West Coast of Scotland. www.inveraraypier.com.
Location: In the centre
of Inveraray. |
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Argyll Wildlife Park, Dalchenna, Inveraray,
Argyll PA32 8XT. Tel: 01499 302264. 55 acres of natural habitat where you will see Snowy the albino wallaby and his family, wild cats, badgers, racoons, arctic, red, silver foxes, monkeys, buzzards, owls and pleasant, goats, Barbie the red deer and fallow deer. The waterfall has a collection of swans and geese plus a variety of ducks and hens. Picnic area and parking. About 3 miles southwest of Inveraray. |
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Scottish
Maritime Museum, Harbourside, Irvine, Ayrshire KA12 8QE. Tel:
01294 278 283. The Museum's Boatshop on Irvine's harbourside
has exhibitions, ship models and a children's activity area.
The guided tours start here throughout the day. Visit Scotland's
"Cathedral to Engineering", the Linthouse Engine Shop,
built in 1872, where you can explore much of the Museum's collection
inside, including shipbuilding machinery and machine tools, smaller
boats, canoes and lifeboats. www.scottishmaritimemuseum.org.
Location: On the outskirts
of Irvine. |
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Ayr Racecourse (Tel: 01292264179) is situated
in the beautiful countryside of Ayrshire and is home to the Scottish
Grand National, the Ayr Gold Cup and a host of other valuable
races. Hosting both flat and national hunt fixtures, Ayr Racecourse
will provide all the thrills and excitement of a day out at the
races for you and your family. ayr-racecourse.co.uk. About 10 miles south of Irvine. |
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Burns
National Heritage Park, Murdoch's Lane, Alloway, Ayr KA7 4PQ.
Tel: 01292 443 700. The monument opened to the public in 1823
and has since become a place of pilgrimage for admirers of Scotland’s
National Poet and a focus for events celebrating his life and
work. burnsheritagepark.com. About 12 miles south of Irvine. |
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Eglinton Country Park and Castle, Kilwinning.
This beautiful country park is built around the former Eglinton
Montgomery Estate. Exhibitions displayed in the visitor centre
explain the natural history and the former past of the area,
including fascinating material on the Eglinton Tournament of
1839. Eglinton Castle stands in the grounds of Eglinton Country
Park, only ruins remain of this 18th century castle built by
Hugh Montgomery, the 12th Earl. About 2 miles north of Irvine. |
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Dean Castle, Kilmarnock Tel: 01563 522702.
Formerly the home of the Boyd family, Earl of Kilmarnock, Dean
Castle houses a wonderful collection of arms, armour, tapestries
and musical instruments. The earliest part of the fortress is
the square Keep, built around 1350 by the Boyd family. www.deancastle.com.
Location: On the outskirts
of Kilmarnock. |
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Dick
Institute, Elmbank Avenue, Kilmarnock KA1 3BU. The Dick Institute,
opened in April 1901, has two Art Galleries and three Museum
Galleries, housing permanent and temporary displays of Fine Art,
Contemporary Art and Craft, Local and Industrial History and
Natural Sciences. Location:
In the centre of Kilmarnock. |
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Loudon Castle Theme Park, Galston, Ayrshire,
KA4 8PE. Tel: 01563 822 296. A great day out for the whole family
with rides and entertainment to suit all ages. About 4 miles east of Kilmarnock. |
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Scottish
Maritime Museum, Harbourside, Irvine, Ayrshire KA12 8QE. Tel:
01294 278 283. The Museum's Boatshop on Irvine's harbourside
has exhibitions, ship models and a children's activity area.
The guided tours start here throughout the day. Visit Scotland's
"Cathedral to Engineering", the Linthouse Engine Shop,
built in 1872, where you can explore much of the Museum's collection
inside, including shipbuilding machinery and machine tools, smaller
boats, canoes and lifeboats. www.scottishmaritimemuseum.org.
About 8 miles west of
Kilmarnock. |
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New Lanark World Heritage Site, South Lanarkshire
Tel: 01555 661345 Discover the fascinating history of New Lanark
and Robert Owen in our award-winning Visitor Centre. www.newlanark.org.
About 1 mile south of
Lanark. |
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Falls
of Clyde Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve, New Lanark Tel:
01555 665262. Located near the World Heritage village of New
Lanark, the reserve covers 59 hectares, has woodland along the
River Clyde gorge and four spectacular waterfalls. The Falls
of Clyde is owned by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Scotland's
leading wildlife conservation organisation. It is a spectacular
reserve with unrivalled opportunities to view peregrine falcons,
badgers and bats. About 2 miles south of Lanark. |
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Coulter Motte, Biggar - Coulter Motte Hill
is the site of an early medieval castle mound which dated from
the 11th Century. An example of a Norman castle mound, it would
have been surrounded by a moat and have a timber tower. It is
now under the ownership of Historic Scotland. About 10 miles east of Lanark. |
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Skelmorlie Aisle, Largs Old Kirk, High Street,
Largs Tel: 01475 672450. Hidden away in Largs' Old Kirk is Skelmorlie
Aisle, a gem of Renaissance architecture unique in Scotland.
This jewel-like monument was erected in 1636 for Sir Robert Montgomerie
of Skelmorlie and contains an elaborate carved stone tomb in
Renaissance style and a painted timber ceiling, with lively scenes
illustrating the seasons. The tomb was decorated by Scottish
masons following Italian patterns and also includes the coat
of arms. Info: Jun-Aug Mon-Fri 1400-1700; keys from museum next
door. Free. Location:
In the centre of Largs. |
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Vikingar,
Greenock Road, Largs KA30 8QL. Tel: 01475 689777. The award winning Vikingar! is a multi-media exhibition which fully describes the Viking influence in Scotland, which ended with the Battle of Largs in 1263. Other facilities include a theatre and cinema, swimming pool, café, bar and gift shop. Location: In the centre of Largs. |
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Clyde Marine Cruises of Greenock, Tel 01475-721281.You
can take a boat trip during July and August from Largs to Rothesay
and the Kyles of Bute. The old paddle steamer Waverley departs
from Largs on Tuesdays during the summer, Tel 0141-2218152, to
Arran and Bute. Details from the tourist office. Location: In the centre of Largs. |
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Kelburn
Castle and Country Centre, Fairlie KA29 0BE. Tel: 01475 568 685.
The family home of the Earls of Glasgow, Kelburn castle dates
back to the 13th century. It is still lived in by the present
Earl and family, is open to the public in July and August and
provides an impressive background to exotic gardens, famous trees
and many features of historical interest. The Kelburn Glen with
its waterfalls and deep gorges is regarded as one of Scotland's
most beautiful woodlands and leads to spectacular views over
the islands of the Firth of Clyde. www.kelburncountrycentre.com.
About 2 miles south of
Largs. |
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Kilmory Castle Gardens, Lochgilphead, Argyll
PA31 8RT. Tel: 01546 - 602127. These historic gardens stand in
the attractive grounds of Kilmory Castle. The gardens still retain
many rare trees and shrubs including fine rhododendrons and recent
restorations include herbaceous borders and collections of hardy
ferns and alpines. The gardens form part of Kilmory Woodland
park which also offers a network of woodland walks linking a
lochside picnic area, bird hide, superb viewpoints and archaeological
sites. About 3 miles south
of Lochgilphead. |
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The National Park Gateway Centre, Loch Lomond
Shores, Ben Lomond Way, Balloch G83 8QL. Tel: 01389 722 199.
The West Highland Way is 152km (95 miles) long. The walk links
Milngavie to Fort William - from the outskirts of Scotland’s
largest city to the foot of its highest mountain, following the
shores of its largest freshwater loch. Around 50,000 people walk
parts of it every year. www.west-highland-way.co.uk. It follows the east shore of Loch
Lomond |
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Loch
Lomond is the largest expanse of freshwater in Great Britain.
The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park encompasses around
720 sq miles of some of the finest scenery in Scotland. It is
an area of contrasts from rolling lowland landscapes in the south
to high mountains in the north, and has many lochs and rivers,
forests and woodlands.www.lochlomond-trossachs.org |
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Balloch Castle, Loch Lomond Tel: 01389 758216.
Balloch Castle Country Park lies within the 170 square miles
of Loch Lomond Regional Park. The visitor centre is in Balloch
Castle itself, but this is a modern version, built in 1808. The
original castle was built in 1238 by the Earls of Lennox (before
they built a more secure stronghold on Inchmurrin Island on the
loch). There is now only a mound and a depression that was the
moat, surviving from the original castle. |
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The National Park Gateway Centre, Loch Lomond
Shores, Ben Lomond Way, Balloch G83 8QL. Tel: 01389 722 199.
The West Highland Way is 152km (95 miles) long. The walk links
Milngavie to Fort William - from the outskirts of Scotland’s
largest city to the foot of its highest mountain, following the
shores of its largest freshwater loch. Around 50,000 people walk
parts of it every year. www.west-highland-way.co.uk |
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Loch
Lomond is the largest expanse of freshwater in Great Britain.
The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park encompasses around
720 sq miles of some of the finest scenery in Scotland. It is
an area of contrasts from rolling lowland landscapes in the south
to high mountains in the north, and has many lochs and rivers,
forests and woodlands. www.lochlomond-trossachs.org.
Luss is located on the
west shore. |
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Balloch Castle, Loch Lomond Tel: 01389 758216.
Balloch Castle Country Park lies within the 170 square miles
of Loch Lomond Regional Park. The visitor centre is in Balloch
Castle itself, but this is a modern version, built in 1808. The
original castle was built in 1238 by the Earls of Lennox (before
they built a more secure stronghold on Inchmurrin Island on the
loch). There is now only a mound and a depression that was the
moat, surviving from the original castle. About 8 miles south of Luss. |
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Souter
Johnnie's Cottage, Main Road, Kirkoswald, South Ayrshire, KA19
8HY. Tel: 01655 760603. This cottage was the home of souter (shoemaker)
John Davidson and his family. Souter Johnnie was immortalised
by Burns in the poem Tam O’ Shanter. The thatched cottage,
built in 1785, is furnished in period style and contains Burns
memorabilia. It also contains a workshop displaying the tools
of a village souter. About 4 miles southwest of Maybole. |
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Ayr Racecourse (Tel: 01292264179) is situated
in the beautiful countryside of Ayrshire and is home to the Scottish
Grand National, the Ayr Gold Cup and a host of other valuable
races. Hosting both flat and national hunt fixtures, Ayr Racecourse
will provide all the thrills and excitement of a day out at the
races for you and your family. ayr-racecourse.co.uk. About 10 miles north of Maybole. |
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Burns
National Heritage Park, Murdoch's Lane, Alloway, Ayr KA7 4PQ.
Tel: 01292 443 700. The monument opened to the public in 1823
and has since become a place of pilgrimage for admirers of Scotland’s
National Poet and a focus for events celebrating his life and
work. burnsheritagepark.com. About 7 miles north of Maybole. |
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Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Alloway by Ayr KA7
4LD. Tel: 01292 441210. Goats, Deer, Ponies, Reptiles, Emu, Lemur,
Prairie Dogs, Buffalo - and lots more!www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk.
About 7 miles north of
Maybole. |
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Croy
Brae (Electric Brae). Travel south down the A719 between Dunure
and Croy Bay and experience the world famous Electric Brae (or
Croy Brae). Care must be taken, but you can stop your car on
the hill, leave the brakes off, and very slowly your car will
roll up the hill! Whilst there is a slope of 1 in 86 upwards
from the bend at the Glen, the configuration of the land on either
side of the road provides an optical illusion making it look
as if the slope is going the other way. Therefore, a stationary
car on the road with the brakes off will appear to move slowly
uphill. The term 'Electric Brae' dates from a time when it was
incorrectly thought to be a phenomenon caused by electric or
magnetic attraction within the Brae. About 4 miles west of Maybole. |
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Culzean Castle, Maybole, Ayrshire KA19 8LE.
Tel: 01655 884 455. Pronounced "cullane", Culzean was
the former home of the Marquess of Ailsa but is now owned by
the National Trust for Scotland. It lies with the Culzean Castle
Country Park and is open to the public. The castle is famous
for appearing on the back of five pound notes issued by the Royal
Bank of Scotland, and is notable for the Oval Staircase and Circular
saloon. There is a Deer Park, Gas Court, Fountain Court and Swan
Pond, mature parklands and gardens. About 5 miles west of Maybole. |
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Low Parks Museum, 129 Muir Street, Hamilton
ML3 6BJ. Tel: 01698 328232. The museum is based in historic buildings
that were once part of the Duke of Hamilton's estate and were
extensively refurbished in recent years. Included in the collections
is the story of the Cameronian (Scottish Rifles) Regiment which
disbanded in 1968. About
2 miles southwest of Motherwell. |
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David
Livingstone Centre, 165 Station Road, Blantyre, South Lanarkshire,
G72 9BY. Tel: 01698 823140. Situated within 20 acres of gardens
and parkland, and once home to 24 families, the tenement was
converted into a museum in 1929 and charts Livingstone`s life
and explorations in Africa, with many of his travel aids including
diaries, scientific and navigational equipment.
About 4 miles northwest
of Motherwell. |
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Hamilton Park Racecourse, Bothwell Road, Hamilton
ML3 0DW. Tel: 01698 283806. Hamilton Park is conveniently located
just off the M74. Racegoers can enjoy flat racing throughout
the season. About 2 miles
west of Motherwell. |
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McCaig's Tower, Oban. The famous landmark of
McCaig's Tower is a Colosseum-like structure, built on a hill
overlooking Oban Bay. The tower is nearly one hundred years old
and stands approximately 70 metres above sea level, the height
of the wall varying from 9 to 14 metres according to the different
levels of the ground. It dominates the Oban skyline and the short
steep walk to its viewing platform is well worth the effort.
Location: On the outskirts
of Oban. |
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Oban
Distillery, Stafford Street, Oban Tel: 01631 572004. At Oban
Distillery you can see the distillers at work crafting a rich,
sweet malt whisky with a subtle hint of sea salt and peaty smokiness.
Location: In the centre
of Oban. |
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Paisley Museum and Art Galleries, High Street,
Paisley, Strathclyde, PA1 2BA.Tel: 0141 889 315. A world famous
collection of Paisley shawls. The general collection illustrates
the local, social, industrial and natural history of Paisley
and Renfrew district. The art collection includes a large collection
of studio ceramics. Location:
In the centre of Paisley. |
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Paisley
Abbey Church stands in the heart of Paisley, just to the east
of Paisley Town Hall. It is built largely of a fine grey stone.
In 1981 a magnificent timber ceiling was erected in the nave,
to replace a "temporary" plaster ceiling inserted in
1788. The Abbey is extremely long - 279 feet from the West Door
to the East Window. Location: In the centre of Paisley. |
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Pollok House, Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws
Road, Glasgow G43 1AT. Tel: 0141 616 6410. Pollok House is an
elegant mansion in the middle of Pollok park, presented to the
City of Glasgow by the owner Mrs Anne Maxwell Macdonald in 1966.
Her family had owned the estate for almost 700 years. Pollok
House is now managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Pollok
Park also houses the World Famous Burrell Collection. About 4 miles east of Paisley. |
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Skelmorlie Aisle, Largs Old Kirk, High Street,
Largs Tel: 01475 672450. Hidden away in Largs' Old Kirk is Skelmorlie
Aisle, a gem of Renaissance architecture unique in Scotland.
This jewel-like monument was erected in 1636 for Sir Robert Montgomerie
of Skelmorlie and contains an elaborate carved stone tomb in
Renaissance style and a painted timber ceiling, with lively scenes
illustrating the seasons. The tomb was decorated by Scottish
masons following Italian patterns and also includes the coat
of arms. Info: Jun-Aug Mon-Fri 1400-1700; keys from museum next
door. Free. About 6 miles
south of Skelmorlie. |
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Vikingar,
Greenock Road, Largs KA30 8QL. Tel: 01475 689777. The award winning Vikingar! is a multi-media exhibition which fully describes the Viking influence in Scotland, which ended with the Battle of Largs in 1263. Other facilities include a theatre and cinema, swimming pool, café, bar and gift shop. About 6 miles south of Skelmorlie. |
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Clyde Marine Cruises of Greenock, Tel 01475-721281.You
can take a boat trip during July and August from Largs to Rothesay
and the Kyles of Bute. The old paddle steamer Waverley departs
from Largs on Tuesdays during the summer, Tel 0141-2218152, to
Arran and Bute. Details from the tourist office. About 6 miles south of Skelmorlie. |
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Kelburn
Castle and Country Centre, Fairlie KA29 0BE. Tel: 01475 568 685.
The family home of the Earls of Glasgow, Kelburn castle dates
back to the 13th century. It is still lived in by the present
Earl and family, is open to the public in July and August and
provides an impressive background to exotic gardens, famous trees
and many features of historical interest. The Kelburn Glen with
its waterfalls and deep gorges is regarded as one of Scotland's
most beautiful woodlands and leads to spectacular views over
the islands of the Firth of Clyde. www.kelburncountrycentre.com.
About 8 miles south of
Skelmorlie. |
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McCaig's Tower, Oban. The famous landmark of
McCaig's Tower is a Colosseum-like structure, built on a hill
overlooking Oban Bay. The tower is nearly one hundred years old
and stands approximately 70 metres above sea level, the height
of the wall varying from 9 to 14 metres according to the different
levels of the ground. It dominates the Oban skyline and the short
steep walk to its viewing platform is well worth the effort.
About 12 miles west of
Taynuilt. |
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Oban
Distillery, Stafford Street, Oban Tel: 01631 572004. At Oban
Distillery you can see the distillers at work crafting a rich,
sweet malt whisky with a subtle hint of sea salt and peaty smokiness.
About 12 miles west of
Taynuilt. |
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Tighnabruaich Sailing School PA 21 2AH. Tel:
01700 811717. Tighnabruaich Sailing School is well known for
providing some of the best sailing instruction in Scotland. www.tssargyll.co.uk.
Location: On the outskirts
of Tighnabruaich. |
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Scottish Maritime Museum, Harbourside, Irvine,
Ayrshire KA12 8QE. Tel: 01294 278 283. The Museum's Boatshop
on Irvine's harbourside has exhibitions, ship models and a children's
activity area. The guided tours start here throughout the day.
Visit Scotland's "Cathedral to Engineering", the Linthouse
Engine Shop, built in 1872, where you can explore much of the
Museum's collection inside, including shipbuilding machinery
and machine tools, smaller boats, canoes and lifeboats. www.scottishmaritimemuseum.org.
About 5 miles north of
Troon. |
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Ayr
Racecourse (Tel: 01292264179) is situated in the beautiful countryside
of Ayrshire and is home to the Scottish Grand National, the Ayr
Gold Cup and a host of other valuable races. Hosting both flat
and national hunt fixtures, Ayr Racecourse will provide all the
thrills and excitement of a day out at the races for you and
your family. ayr-racecourse.co.uk. About 6 miles south of Troon. |
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Burns National Heritage Park, Murdoch's Lane,
Alloway, Ayr KA7 4PQ. Tel: 01292 443 700. The monument opened
to the public in 1823 and has since become a place of pilgrimage
for admirers of Scotland’s National Poet and a focus for
events celebrating his life and work. burnsheritagepark.com.
About 10 miles south of
Troon. |
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Heads
of Ayr Farm Park, Alloway by Ayr KA7 4LD. Tel: 01292 441210.
Goats, Deer, Ponies, Reptiles, Emu, Lemur, Prairie Dogs, Buffalo
- and lots more!www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk. About 10 miles south of Troon. |
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Souter
Johnnie's Cottage, Main Road, Kirkoswald, South Ayrshire, KA19
8HY. Tel: 01655 760603. This cottage was the home of souter (shoemaker)
John Davidson and his family. Souter Johnnie was immortalised
by Burns in the poem Tam O’ Shanter. The thatched cottage,
built in 1785, is furnished in period style and contains Burns
memorabilia. It also contains a workshop displaying the tools
of a village souter. About 3 miles northeast of Turnberry. |
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Ayr Racecourse (Tel: 01292264179) is situated
in the beautiful countryside of Ayrshire and is home to the Scottish
Grand National, the Ayr Gold Cup and a host of other valuable
races. Hosting both flat and national hunt fixtures, Ayr Racecourse
will provide all the thrills and excitement of a day out at the
races for you and your family. ayr-racecourse.co.uk. About 16 miles northeast of Turnberry. |
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Burns
National Heritage Park, Murdoch's Lane, Alloway, Ayr KA7 4PQ.
Tel: 01292 443 700. The monument opened to the public in 1823
and has since become a place of pilgrimage for admirers of Scotland’s
National Poet and a focus for events celebrating his life and
work. burnsheritagepark.com. About 14 mile northeast of Turnberry. |
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Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Alloway by Ayr KA7
4LD. Tel: 01292 441210. Goats, Deer, Ponies, Reptiles, Emu, Lemur,
Prairie Dogs, Buffalo - and lots more!www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk.
About 13 miles northeast
of Turnberry. |
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Croy
Brae (Electric Brae). Travel south down the A719 between Dunure
and Croy Bay and experience the world famous Electric Brae (or
Croy Brae). Care must be taken, but you can stop your car on
the hill, leave the brakes off, and very slowly your car will
roll up the hill! Whilst there is a slope of 1 in 86 upwards
from the bend at the Glen, the configuration of the land on either
side of the road provides an optical illusion making it look
as if the slope is going the other way. Therefore, a stationary
car on the road with the brakes off will appear to move slowly
uphill. The term 'Electric Brae' dates from a time when it was
incorrectly thought to be a phenomenon caused by electric or
magnetic attraction within the Brae. About 9 miles northeast of Turnberry. |
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Culzean Castle, Maybole, Ayrshire KA19 8LE.
Tel: 01655 884 455. Pronounced "cullane", Culzean was
the former home of the Marquess of Ailsa but is now owned by
the National Trust for Scotland. It lies with the Culzean Castle
Country Park and is open to the public. The castle is famous
for appearing on the back of five pound notes issued by the Royal
Bank of Scotland, and is notable for the Oval Staircase and Circular
saloon. There is a Deer Park, Gas Court, Fountain Court and Swan
Pond, mature parklands and gardens. About 5 miles northeast of Turnberry. |
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