The most unusual attractions Scotland has to offer…
Scotland is a country of stunning landscapes, fascinating history and culture, and fun activities to enjoy. From the rugged and remote Highlands to the bustling cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, there is something for everyone in Scotland.
Whether you’re looking for an active escape or some more relaxed pastimes, there are plenty of fun and unusual things to do in Scotland. These are our faves!
Fingal’s Cave
Situated on the isle of Staffa, this naturally formed cave is renowned for its peculiar echoes and is a popular tourist hotspot. It's a sea cave, built of hexagonally jointed basalt columns, like the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.
At its peak, the cave is 26 feet high, 80 feet deep and 200 feet long. It has been visited by many distinguished figures, such as Queen Victoria, Pink Floyd, and Jules Verne, and is easily accessible by boat from the island of Mull. Well worth the visit to see something totally out of the ordinary.
St Ninian's Isle
This beautiful and historically significant site is located in the Shetland Islands. Visitors to the isle will be able to explore the remains of an Iron Age church and see the St Ninian's Isle Treasure, a collection of silver artefacts dating from the late eighth century.
It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, with many rare species of seabirds native to the area and added to that the stunning white sand beach and coastal scenery (often compared to that of the Caribbean) makes it a great spot for a peaceful day of relaxation.
Skara Brae
Located in Scotland's Orkney Islands Skara Brae Neolithic settlement, which was uncovered by a storm in 1850, is an archaeological treasure, and one of the best-preserved sites of its kind in Europe. The stone-built structures, dating back to around 3180 BC, are thought to be some of the oldest buildings in Europe and pre-date Stonehenge!
It’s unique prehistoric architecture and archaeological wonders will offer more insights into the history of Scotland and Europe, and its remarkable preservation makes it a great place to explore, surrounded as it is with breath-taking Scottish scenery.
Sueno’s Stone
This ancient stone is a must see for those visiting Scotland! It is one of the largest and most impressive carved stones in Scotland, with intricate designs and inscriptions carved into it. It shares a fascinating look into Scotland’s past, and into the culture and traditions of the people called the Picts, who lived there centuries ago.
Sueno’s Stone is a great way to experience Scotland’s rich history and culture and will be a memorable experience for any visitor.
The Union Canal
Boating enthusiasts will want to take a trip down the Union Canal – the historical 31-mile waterway that opened in 1822 as a transport link to bring coal from Falkirk into the heart of Edinburgh, and operated for around one hundred years until the advent of the railway.
The canal offers two great developments on either end – The Falkirk Wheel which links the Union canal to the Forth and Clyde Canal and is the worlds only rotating boat lift which is quite something to behold! In Edinburgh, the quay development now plays home to a busy canal centre, well worth a wander through.
You can walk alongside the canal on its beautiful footpaths or cruise through the canal on your own boat, hire a boat for the day or dine in a restaurant boat.
If you’re looking for beautiful scenery, historic architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere in which to relax and take in the beauty of this stunning country you’re in the right place!
Comment below and ask us for our recommendations on just about anything in Scotland – we’d be happy to share our favourites with you.
PS – We hope to see you on the hills again, too.
Happy walking, The Walkers Club team