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Historic Attractions in Scotland
If there's one thing we could really go on and on about, it's Scotland's history. But don't worry, it is certainly not boring - it's just that it stretches back thousands and thousands of years, meaning there is plenty to cover! Behind the famous buildings in Scotland there are some great stories - which hopefully you'll hear when you visit these Scottish heritage sites.
Historic attractions in Scotland
Excite your curiosity at these historical sites across Scotland. From Neolithic villages to historic abbeys, get a glimpse of life in eras gone by.
Rosslyn Chapel
The ornate stonework and mysterious symbolism of the chapel are guaranteed to inspire visitors.
Arbroath Abbey
Explore the substantial ruins of a Tironensian monastery
The Blackhouse, Arnol
This traditional Lewis thatched house is fully furnished, complete with an attached barn, byre and stackyard.
Gladstone's Land
The historic townhouse in Edinburgh takes you through three centuries of Gladstone’s Land history.
St Andrews Cathedral
Visit the remains of St Andrews Cathedral, which was once Scotland’s largest cathedral and most magnificent church.
Famous Blacksmiths Gretna Green Experience
Dive into the history of true love at the Famous Blacksmiths Shop at Gretna Green.
Castles & Battlefields Accessible Highlights Guide
Read about Scotland's most accessible castles and battlefields by Euan's guide
Scone Palace
Scone Palace was the crowning place of Scottish kings where Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II were crowned on the Stone of Destiny.
Landmarks and monuments in Scotland
Scotland's landmarks entice visitors from near and far. Whether you want to photograph some ruins or climb to the top of a historic monument, you really are spoilt for choice.
The National Wallace Monument
An outstanding landmark and one of Stirling’s most striking visits - commemorating the life of Sir William Wallace
Antonine Wall
The Antonine Wall was an ambitious engineering project which once struck fear and dread into the hearts of the people of Scotland.
Culloden Battlefield
Visit the powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite Rising – the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil.
Calanais Standing Stones
Located in the west coast of Lewis, the 5,000 year old Calanais Stones are famous all over the world.
Skara Brae
Skara brae, part of the heart of Neolithic Orkney.
Glenfinnan
Situated at the head of Loch Shiel, Glenfinnan attracts visitors from around the world to experience its stunning scenery.
Castles and palaces
Scotland is full of historical castles to discover, including medieval ruins perched on dramatic clifftops and oppulent baronial mansions,
What's New
Discover new ways to explore Scotland's complex and ancient history. Browse Museum Galleries Scotland's new interactive map, visit the Burrell Collection - winner of The Museum of the Year Award 2023 - and see the legendary Stone of Destiny at the new Perth Museum.
Facing Our Past
Take a look at the National Trust for Scotland project which looks at historic properties and their colonial connections
UNESCO trail
The first country in the world to bring together 13 UNESCO sites into one trail.
Museums Galleries Scotland map
Browse museums and galleries across Scotland with this interactive map
The Scottish Crannog Centre
It's back! The Scottish Crannog Centre has officially re-opened its doors. Book tickets now for a journey back in time to Scotland's prehistoric past.
Delve into Scotland's history
12 Must-visit historic towns in Scotland
Get ready to take a journey through some of the finest historic towns in Scotland.
Famous Scots
From Rabbie Burns to Macbeth, there are famous Scots in history and even Hollywood.
The Jacobite Rebellion
The Jacobite Risings proved a decisive period in Scotland's history
Standing Stones
Scotland's standing stones uncover a fascinating prehistoric past.
Crown Jewels of Scotland & The Stone of Destiny
Our jewel encrusted crown, elaborate sword and sceptre and the Stone of Destiny.
7 Historic wonders
Discover seven historic wonders in Scotland that should be on your must-see travel list.
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