Exploring the Historic Battlefields of Scotland

Battles were often iconic events in Scottish history, and battlefields form an important part of our historic environment. The proof of this statement resounds in the archaeological and historical literature. Battles scenes are inscribed on rock or metal or clay in nearly every period of every culture known to us today. The great and small battles of history and prehistory live with us today; and so battlefield sites make interesting places to visit and learn about.
Battlefields Trust Resource Centre is essential reading for anyone planning to visit a battlefield. Included are maps, images, air photos, walking and driving tours, research tools, and much more.

Here are some of the key battles in Scotland’s history for visitors to research & explore:
Killiecrankie, Perthshire – a dramatic gorge where, in July 1689, the outnumbered Highlanders smashed a much larger government force.

Culloden Battlefield, near Inverness – This evocative site was the scene of the last major battle fought on mainland Britain where the Duke of Cumberland finally defeated the Jacobite rebellion in 1746. Brand new Visitor Centre with state of the art 360° immersion theatre, exhibition and spectacular roof-top views of the battlefield.

Bannockburn, near Stirling, is the site of King Robert the Bruce’s victory against Edward II’s army in 1314 marking a major step in Scotland’s quest for independence. Battlefield site where the fate of the nation of Scotland was decided when Robert the Bruce and his army defeated the army of Edward II of England on the 23rd and 24th June 1314.

Massacre of Glencoe, Argyll, is the site of the infamous massacre in 1692 of some 38 MacDonalds by government militia made up of Campbells, an act which reverberated around Scotland.

Then after a long day of trekking through the moors and glens of these historic events (not to mention listening to countless audio visual aids), you know you can relax in the comforts of a quality self-catering property with the help of the EmbraceScotland website. Take a look at the Regional pages for specific areas of Scotland you wish to stay in. Or if you are looking for a last minute bargain, see what the Late Availability pages have to offer.