Scotland has been called “the best little country in the world” and that certainly rings true today. This country not only has friendly and welcoming people, but also has a large variety of things for visitors to see, taste and touch. Below are some of the things Scotland has to offer its visitors in 2013.
1. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the most visited attractions in all of Scotland for a reason. This art gallery and museum has over 20 galleries that display over 8000 different objects. Visitors to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum can learn about a variety of subjects that include Scottish history, ancient weapons of Scotland and Scottish art.
2. Edinburgh Castle
No trip to Scotland would be complete without visiting Edinburgh Castle. This historic castle is located in Scotland’s capital. The site was first settled in the 9th century and Edinburgh Castle was erected in approximately the 11th century and has been the site for many epic military conflicts over the years. Today, it is not only a first class historic site but is also a very popular tourist attraction. Inside the castle are several restaurants and cafes, store fronts and historical displays.
3. The Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Staged in front of Edinburgh Castle, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of the most anticipated events in Scotland each and every year. This 3-week event features hundreds of musicians performing plus dancers, military parades, firework displays and performances on a nightly basis. The 2013 Edinburgh Military Tattoo runs from the 2nd to 24th of August. Watch the YouTube video below of last years festival for an interesting insight.
4. Loch Ness Film Festival 2013
Scotland is home to many different film festivals but none are more highly anticipated than the Loch Ness Film Festival. It first debuted in 2010 and has since become very popular. The Loch Ness Film Festival screens movies from all over the world. The festival runs from July 26 to July 28 and is great fun for the entire family.
5. Glenisla
Glenisla is known for its heather crested mountains, beautiful glades and abundant wildlife. However, it is also home to the Annual Gathering of the Glenisla Highland and Friendly Society. This group is dedicated to the preservation of ancient Highland customs. Visitors can witness epic battle re-enactments, ancient Scottish games and traditional Highland music. This event begins August 23, 2013.
6. Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is an island that is located in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. It is known for its grand coastline, mist shrouded peaks and waterfalls. It is also home to Dunvegan Castle and several whiskey distilleries. However, these aren’t the only attractions on this isle. July 25-27 it is home to the Antiquarian Book Festival and on August 7 is home to the Skye Highland Games. And to get the most from your visit check out voucher king.co.uk which offers savings on travel throughout the year.
7. Bo’ness And Kinneil Railway
Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway is an exhibit that has running antique trains and historical train memorabilia. It also features one of the few railroad museums in all of Scotland. Every day during the summer of 2013, the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway will give visitors a chance to enjoy afternoon tea while riding on one of their historic steam trains.
8. Ring Of Brodgar
The Ring Of Brodgar is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is situated between the lochs of Harray and Stenness on Orkney. Its main features are a Neolithic henge and a large stone circle that measures over 103 meters in diameter. Several events are scheduled for this site in 2013. On September 5, 2013, the Historic Scotland Rangers will host their annual walk around this site.
9. Glasgow Science Center
A chance to visit Glasgow Science Center should not be passed up on any trip to Scotland. It features an interactive science mall, the biggest IMAX screen in Scotland and a planetarium.
10. National Gallery of Scotland
The National Gallery of Scotland is another must-see attraction. Located on Edinburgh’s Princess Street, this building is not only impressive but also houses some of the greatest art works of Scotland, as well as works done from artists around the world. It contains paintings from artists such as John Singer Sargent, Sir David Wilkie and Peter Paul Rubens.
