Scotland is steeped so completely in history that you can find it all around you – interwoven in the landscapes, echoing in the halls, etched into the buildings. Scotland truly is a fantastic place to see history come to life – explore the castles and battle fields, the distilleries and ancient standing stones, and you can almost hear the past whispering in the wind and pulling at your sleeve.
Edinburgh and Lothians
Edinburgh’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a wonderful place to feel history come alive. Explore it from top to toe, from the majestic Edinburgh Castle down the Royal Mile to the ruins of Holyrood Abbey. If you’re feeling brave, head underground to the Vaults (a series of chambers formed in the arches of the South Bridge, completed in 1788 and later home to some of Edinburgh’s poorest inhabitants).
21 Cordiners Land is ideally located for immersing yourself in Edinburgh’s history, overlooking the Old Town and Castle, and a short walk from the Royal Mile. Further afield, Faside Estate, 10 miles from the city centre, is a wonderful base for discovering all that historic Edinburgh has to offer and getting a glimpse of history up close – the holiday cottages are within a 17th century barn conversion in the grounds of Faside Castle.
Glasgow and Clyde Valley
There are many historic attractions to visit in Glasgow, from remainders of its medieval past to its industrial heritage. Admire the city’s beautiful architecture and take a tour of medieval Glasgow, including Crookston Castle, a 15th century ruin, Provand’s Lordship, the oldest house in Glasgow and the magnificent Glasgow cathedral. Staying in self-catering Glasgow can give you an authentic experience of the city and its history.
Perthshire, Dundee and Angus
Morrison’s Holiday Homes, an Old Dairy Cottage dating back to 1709, is situated in the Royal Burgh of Auchterarder, near Gleneagles – perfect if you’re looking for historic self-catering! Closer to Perth, Wayside Cottage, on a working farm, is ideally located for exploring the nearby castles, distilleries and picturesque towns.
The Kingdom of Fife
The Kingdom of Fife has many historic sites and attractions, such as the historic town of St Andrews, the charming East Neuk villages – including Crail, with its 16th century harbour – Aberdour Castle and Gardens, and Dunfermline Palace and Abbey.Dunfermline was the capital of Scotland for over 500 years and you can feel its history in its ancient abbey, where many Scottish Kings and Queens were laid to rest, and adjoining palace ruins. Both Yellowscott Country Park and Lbtie Lodge are close to Dunfermline and perfect for exploring the historic region.
Visit Historic Scotland for more information on historic sites in these areas. For ideas on other places to explore Scotland’s past, read Places to Embrace Scotland’s History: Part 2 and Places to Embrace Scotland’s History: Part 3.
Whether you’re interested in exploring your own ancestry or just learning more about historical sites in Scotland, you can embrace the past with EmbraceScotland. What’s your favourite historic site in Scotland?
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