We enjoyed our visit to Drum Castle. The tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly and we found the information interesting. Unfortunately, it was pouring cats and dogs when we finished, so although we did make our way to the gardens it was hard to enjoy them with the weather. That said, you could tell that the walled rose garden was a special place and the water garden we passed was quite peaceful. The only reason I’m rating this a 4 vs a 5 is because there are a few other walled gardens that are larger with more variety for the avid gardener. My only recommendation would be for the tour guide to end the tour with more info about what we could find outside. The walled garden is a short walk from the castle and could easily be missed. We just happened to ask about it.

This castle is definitely worth a visit. The gardens are beautiful, blooming with flowers on our visit in August, and humming with bees and lovely butterflies. The access to the interior is by guided tour only, but it is well worth doing the 45 minute tour. Our guide was informative, and entertaining. Entry and parking is free for NT members.

Very cool. Like all national trust for Scotland castles in the North East it’s a beauty in some of the best looking land in the world. This was has a few extras that make it a bit more special mostly the private chapel and the wood play ground. But has the usual stunning architecture, interesting owners, fascinating history, great furniture, walled garden, gift shop and great staff. A beautiful drive to get there as well.

We had a wonderful tour led by Cameron. Humorous and educational. Engaging and just long enough without dragging on. We would’ve liked the ability to go self-guided; however, this was a great experience overall.

Cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. there 700 years of history in one of Scotland’s oldest tower houses. Drum Castle has something for everyone, from the medieval High Hall to modern art exhibitions. The original 13th-century tower of Drum Castle has been suggested as the work of medieval architect Richard Cementarius, who built the Brig o' Balgownie, the first Bridge of Don, in Old Aberdeen....this was one amazing castle to visit...definitely worth a visit

An amazing place to visit. Highly recommended. The grounds are idyllic. You are guided around the Castle by an informative guide who made the whole experience entertaining. The grounds are amazing and such a joy to explore.

The playground is uniquely designed using only natural materials. It was great, and the children really enjoyed it. The castle gardens were filled with the beautiful scent of roses, and the whole place was lovely.

The sun was splitting the sky today so we decided to visit Crathes Castle & Estate. The location was very busy as there were extra activities on in the grounds, bouncy things of several shapes and sizes, face painting, arts and crafts etc. It Is a self guided tour through the castle going up one set of very tight circular stairs and returning back down to ground level on a second set of stairs. You do need good mobility to manage these stairs. All the rooms were temperature and humidity controlled to try and preserve the fabrics and furnishings within each room. All the items were most interesting to see but not as old as those in Glamis castle. One advantage of this castle Is that you may take photographs except for one small area. After we completed the tour the heat from the sun guided us to the nearby ice cream vendor followed by a walk around the gardens. The gardens are large and are the home to many exotic plants, trees and shrubs. It Is a full time job for five volunteer gardeners to keep the gardens and grounds in such a wondrous condition. We finished off the day with a quick snack in the cafe. Soft drinks, cakes and cappuccino were enjoyed at a leisurely pace. A great day out, highly recommended.

What a great castle, so well kept and the staff are so full of knowledge The gardens are fabulous and I would suggest a while day, half day at least in the castle if you want to read all the details and do it justice, then a good couple of hours minimum in the gardens. Also great walks around the area also and. A lovely cafe.

This was an absolutely lovely location to come for a day out. The place was really busy due to a family fun day event being on, but there was still so much open space that you never felt hemmed in or on top of other visitors. The lady in the gift shop, and indeed all of the staff we encountered, were very friendly and happy to help us out. The only sad thing was that, whilst the garden was amazing, me and my wife couldn't go in together because we brought our dog. I feel that it should be the case that as long as your dog is kept on a short lead, is well behaved, and they are picked up after (which should be the case on the whole estate anyway) then they should be allowed in the gardens too. Overall a lovely site to visit.

i absolutely loved this castle ...the painted ceilings are just amazing ...Standing against a backdrop of rolling hills and set within its own glorious gardens, Crathes Castle provides a memorable experience with its towers, turrets and stories of its resident ghosts. King Robert the Bruce granted the lands of Leys to the Burnett family in 1323: the ancient Horn of Leys, which can be seen today in the Great Hall, marks his gift. Inside you’ll find a labyrinth of cultural history, from family portraits to fine antique furniture. The walled garden is a wonderful jungle of history, split into eight sections that encompass every green delight imaginable a sculpted topiary, soft herbaceous colours and modern exotic blooms. The massive yew hedges are thought to have been planted as early as 1702. Crathes Castle Estate was once part of the Royal Forest of Drum. Today there are a range of waymarked and clearly signposted trails. Look out for wildlife along the way – you may see red squirrels, woodpeckers and herons.

We are having a family holiday in Crathes. My wife and I have spent the last two days driving to here, so were pleased of a quiet day. After breakfast, we walked along the Deeside Way, a relatively flat walk from Aberdeen to Ballater, which was as far as the Deeside Railway went. Queen Victoria didn't want the railway to spoil the countryside around Balmoral. We soon came across Crathes signal box now a private residence and the remains if the platforms. Walking on, we came to a fork, with the Deeside Way going left over a pack horse bridge or right, under the road. Little did we realise what a difference taking the right fork would make. Continuing on our walk we came across the Milton of Crathes, a selection of independent shops. From here, we passed some railway carriages and still no signs directing us to the castle. Eventually, we came out beside the main road at Banchory, nearly four Mike's away. It was a very day and would get hotter as the day went on. We asked a local lad which way to the castle and he directed us up a road. It was not the main entrance but one used countries ago. It was a long uphill climb through the welcoming shade of huge trees of all descriptions. Eventually, we arrived at the castle and it looked very different to other castles we have visited. The castle is steeped in history, the one notable thing being it was lived in by the same family for centuries. We had a walk around inside, partly to cool off and partly to find out more about its history. We had a fascinating journey throughout most of the castle. The most fascinating were the painted ceilings, especially the Room of the Nine Nobles, based on great heroes from the past and the Muses' Room, with paintings of nine Muses and seven Virtues. From here, we walked to the cafe to get refreshments, but could believe the scores of wasps making most families lives a misery. In all my years, I have never so many wasps in one place. We drank up and departed for the welcoming shade of a hirse chestnut tree where we ate our lunch. From here, we walked down to the garden where a token allows families access to the gardens. The tokens can be collected from the main desk. The garden is a place of wonder, as with every turn, you see something different and interesting. You can see the castle from different angles which is a treat. Considering the hot sommer we are experiencing, the gardeners have produced a magnificent show for everyone. It seemed every colour was on view, depending on the flowers and which garden beds we were at. We even passed a couple getting married in a centre piece of the garden. We were intrigued by two large bushes close together at the side nearest the castle. It was while we were sat in the gsrden entrance building that we found the answer. The trees were planted in the 1700, and clipped in what we would describe as small urns. (They obviously had some meaning!!) Today, one is an egg sitting on a eggcup and the other is waiting for an egg. We much prefer the latter version. From here, we walked down the main path, the white trail, to the main entrance , stopping to look at the Highland cattle. We came across a bridge which I guess would have been part of the old road. Underneath, water from the large pond flowed down to the river. We followed a path and lo and behold came out at the road bridge we saw earlier on. We were no walking home knowing we didn't have as long a walk as this morning. By now, the heat was building, so a shorter walk was very welcome. Crathes Castle is an interesting place to visit, with lots of space to run around. There is a children's play area and well behaved dogs are welcomed. Crathes Castle has a cafe catering for all tastes and a great gift shop, selling a range of gifts and food.

We didn't go to the castle but WHAT a garden! We went twice and even in the space of 10 days there were different things to see. Absolute must for garden enthusiasts, whether you enjoy the formal topiary or the amazing themed borders. We chatted for a long time with the volunteers, who were very informative. Will happily come back again and again.

It was very nice on the outside, but it was quite expensive to go in (I paid €17), it didn’t really feel like a castle on the inside, felt maybe too modernised? I was expecting something a little bit more medieval with more rooms and corridors to explore, but that’s my fault for not reading about it first! Staff very friendly though, and the gardens were very nice! lots of grass to sit on and relax.

Review by Toby the Fluffy Pumpkin King Greetings once again, dear readers. Sir Toby Fluffington III here — explorer of ruins, conqueror of mountains, and now, esteemed visitor of farms. My most recent royal expedition took me to a charming countryside estate, where my noble quest was simple: secure the finest pumpkin in all the land. Upon arrival, however, I discovered that the farm was hosting a makers market. Delightful chaos! The air was filled with the smells of baked goods, candles, and possibly three different kinds of cheese. Naturally, as an ambassador of charm and fluff, I was immediately surrounded by adoring subjects eager to bestow pats and compliments. I accepted each with grace and a wag of the tail, though I regret to report that in all the excitement, there was no time for royal portraits — the place was simply teeming with people. I perused the stalls, sniffing out local crafts and intriguing human trinkets. There were treats, soaps, knitted items, and mysterious shiny things I wasn’t allowed to lick. The humans chatted; I networked. It was, in short, a very successful diplomatic outing. But the true heart of my mission awaited: the pumpkin patch. Before proceeding, I made a quick stop to greet the chickens and ducks in their pen. We exchanged polite clucks and quacks — fine farm folk, if a bit gossipy — before I trotted off to complete my royal inspection. The field stretched before me, a sea of orange treasures basking under the autumn sky. I took my time, nose to the ground, surveying each pumpkin carefully like a gem appraiser. Too small. Too lumpy. Too pedestrian. And then… there it was. The one. Vast, round, and gloriously orange — a pumpkin fit for a king. With a decisive bark, I declared it mine. My loyal humans obeyed immediately, fetching a wheelbarrow for the royal transport. Naturally, I climbed aboard beside my chosen pumpkin, riding regally through the fields as the crisp wind ruffled my fur. Onlookers surely whispered, “There goes the Pumpkin King.” And so, dear subjects, my farm adventure concluded in triumph: new friends made, local wonders discovered, and the grandest pumpkin secured. Yours royally, Sir Toby Fluffington III Pumpkin King, Market Celebrity, Friend of Ducks and Chickens Alike

Stunning setting, super dog friendly and delicious food and drink. Every member of staff was lovely and helpful. Really can't recommend this place enough! Great place to bring kids too.

Beautiful fruit farm, farm shop, cafe, play area and of course, fruit picking, all at Charleton farm. The breakfast was delicious, lots of helpful staff, very varied menu, lovely deserts. Pick your own or buy from the shop. Very family/kid friendly and accessible.

Absolutely loved it! Plenty very delicious strawberries! but also so much fun for kids to do! Definitely will be back again, highly recommend to visit with family ❤️

Excellent Farm shop and cafe. Had breakfast in the outside covered areas. Great service, delicious food and we also bought food items from the farm shop too. They have their own frozen meat items packaged too. Coming back to pick our own fruit. What a wonderful place!

Always been a great visit. Our recent one was no exception. Great service and lovely food. More disabled parking than before and charging points for EVs.

Amazing food, beautifully presented. Never expected freshly picked strawberries and balsamic vinegar salad on a breakfast but will look for it from now on. Great service, prompt and friendly.

Had a great couple of hours looking around the museum. We especially enjoyed viewing the Top Gear and Guy Martin exhibitions - Guy's world record bicycle and the crazy (smashed up) go kart are particular highlights. There's a lovely cafe with a good selection of gluten free lunches. It's all dog friendly and the staff were super friendly, even giving the dogs a gravy bone on arrival. It's well worth the fee to enter.

This is a lovely old school museum. Incredibly friendly staff, plenty to see and the Top Gear exhibition is well worth the lengthy drive from almost anywhere else in the country! It's totally accessible and set in a lovely part of the world. Gift shop and cafe are great and well priced too.

My partner and I visited the Grampian transport museum and was thoroughly impressed by its excellent presentation. It's a must see attraction for any car enthusiast, Top Gear or Guy Martin fan. It almost goes without saying but it's the Top Gear cars that brought me to the museum. I had only found out about it just days prior to my trip when Drivetribe (a popular YouTube channel) had released a video on the indestructible Toyota Hilux that Grampian are now the proud owners of. However, it doesn't stop at just the Hilux, they own many of the iconic TV cars such as the Rambulance, the P45 and even the amphibious vehicles that the legendary trio of Clarkson, Hammond and May tried crossing the English Channel in. Explaining the history of each vehicle was a passionate volunteer Finlay McHardy who really made the day for us. Listening to him talk about the episodes each vehicle was featured in and sharing knowledge not found on the information boards. He even shared some details about what the future may hold for the vehicles... Meaning, if you're thinking they might try and start the Hilux. You may be right. The team at Grampian are sent on courses and trained to try and preserve the exhibits they have on display. The Hilux being no exception. If the pickup truck does indeed still run after time has been added to the concoction of death it's had to endure then it'll be because of the amazing team at Grampian and not the Smallest Cog as many suspect. Moving away from the Top Gear exhibit the museum also features trams, bikes in both push and motorised varieties as well as historic 'transportation of the future' such as the Sinclair C5 a vehicle that I believe was ahead of its time. The museum really is a treasure trove of information with the sheer diversity it has to offer and with plenty to read for those that wish to do so. It's very clear a lot of care has gone into making the exhibits as enjoyable and informative as possible. If all of this sounds tiring or perhaps you're not as passionate as a partner, child or any other acquaintance that you may be travelling with is. Then not to worry there is a lovely café located inside the museum called Motorbites which I feel is a worthy pun. It offers a great range of food and drink at what I found to be a very reasonable price, making it the perfect spot for lunch or just a break! The only negative I can draw from my visit is the behaviour of a school group. The children seemed to treat the museum like a playground, running around without much supervision or respect for the exhibits. While this didn't entirely detract from my experience, it was a minor disruption. However, this is not Grampian's fault and more so the lack of supervision from the responsible adults of the school trip. Overall I had a great time. So much so that if you look hard enough you may find my name, Finlay's name or many others dotted around the exhibits as the museum offer a vehicle adoption scheme for a one of fee of £25. This goes towards running the museum and the upkeep of the exhibits as Grampian is owned and operated by a registered charity of which I was more than happy to support. So on that bombshell, it's a 5/5 from me

As someone who has watched endless Topgear, it was great to see some of the special episode cars here. The staff were all friendly, small cafe on side. Would recommend. Slight inconvenience we turned up at 3:30pm and were told they shut at 4pm despite it saying 5pm on the website. Came back in the morning though

Delightful small museum which I’ve visited several times over the years but never taken my granddaughter so decided to go yesterday & support local. Some new items since last time there. Top gear really good as you remember it from seeing it on tv & good to see their creations in real life. Sadly what let’s the place down is the cafe as my granddaughter wanted the kids lunch box which is a sandwich, juice, etc. they couldn’t do a tuna sandwich at 2.12pm ?? However said we could have egg /bacon? how difficult would it have been to make a wee tuna sandwich ?? So we didn’t have lunch. I mentioned this at desk on way out as a suggestion to do sandwiches at any time of the day but he didn’t seem very interested to hear what I had to say. Outdoor play area is disappointing- not kept well not clean. They used to have a super bit for kids to go round small circuit in cars in the play area but that’s not there anymore. So all in all they happy to charge £27 for 2 adults 1 child but clearly doesn’t go into maintaining the kids area.

The visit was great, there was lots to see while the top gear exhibit was on, it was like meeting my childhood heros 🤣

Great museum with information boards across all different cars, bikes and carriages. The top gear cars are brilliant for anyone who is a fan.

This is a gem of a castle and grounds located near the beautiful village of Edzell. We were lucky to time our trip for the sunshine and to see reenactment camp from the Sir Arthur Erskine’s Regiment. Great displays and knowledge from this team and really made the day special. Dale from this team offered guided tours and his knowledge was amazing. Listening to the surgeon and seeing his props still makes me shiver. All the Historic Environment Scotland team as well were very polite and helpful from the moment we arrived and we had great fun exploring the castle and grounds. Next time we will take a picnic and stay longer. Parking for about 30 normal sized cars with small gift shop and toilets on site. Grounds and walled garden easy to explore but some surfaces in and around the main castle are unsuitable for wheelchairs etc as is be uneven. Well worth a visit.

Wee ended up having the place to ourselves, after lunch break and was good to be able to search without interruptions. Kids enjoyed a run about the wide open spaces. Some of the best gardens and carved surroundings I've been to yet.

Wonderful castle and beautiful walled garden. Castle mainly ruins with the ground and first floor of the Tower available at the moment due the other section being off limits due the unsafe platform. The walled garden has rare roses and well landscaped hedges plus a bonus Summer House to explore. Small visitor centre and unisex toilets. Two picnic tables on site. Car Park has approx 30 spaces. 5 mins from Edzell. 15 mins from A90.

Review by Toby the Castle Connoisseur Greetings, peasants. I am Toby: adventurer, castle connoisseur, part-time philosopher, and full-time Very Good Boy. I recently had the honour of visiting a splendid ruin of a castle, and I must say — it was simply divine. Crumbling in all the right places, sturdy where it counts, and absolutely perfect for dramatic wind-blown poses atop ancient stones. Let’s begin with the rose garden. Immaculate. Truly fit for a royal wee like myself. Every bush pruned to perfection, every petal in place, and not a single squirrel in sight (a minor disappointment, but I respect the discipline). I trotted among the blooms like the flower prince I was born to be, pausing occasionally to sniff like I was rating each plant on its fragrance and regal energy. The purple flowers were, of course, my favourite. Regal. Mysterious. Slightly edible, if no one’s watching. Now, the castle itself. A lovely ruin. Not too restored (no offense to modern plumbing, but where’s the romance in that?) and full of interesting nooks to explore. I investigated every room. Some twice. Some five times. Each with the serious contemplation of a dog picturing his future rule. The main hall? My nap chamber. The tower? Obvious look-out post for my loyal feathered spies. The kitchen? I would like that refurbished immediately. Double the meat hooks. At one point I stood on a high ledge, wind tousling my ears, gazing out over the grounds. Below me: the rose garden, a canvas of purples and greens. Beyond: a sea of sheep. My people. Quiet. Fluffy. Slightly confused. I nodded at them like a king surveying his woolly kingdom. One nodded back. We understood each other. Now — the birds. I’m not sure if they were ravens, crows, hawks, or just very well-dressed pigeons, but they were everywhere, strutting around like they owned the place. I tried befriending a few, but they were on tight schedules and had Important Castle Business. I respect that. I, too, am often busy with Important Castle Business. In summary: 10/10. Exceptional ruin. Excellent flower selection. Ideal sheep-to-tower viewing ratio. I would move in tomorrow, given the slightest invitation, and begin ruling with a firm but cuddly paw. Yours regally, Sir Toby Fluffington III Castle Connoisseur, Biscuit Enthusiast, Lord of the Purple Flowers

Brilliant place to spend a couple of hours.

Castle was fascinating and the gardens beautiful. Lady in charge gave us lots of historical information. Just disappointed that it is only open from April to September as we hoped to revisit in October.

Truly beautiful and interesting place to visit. Exploring the ruins is fun and the gardens are inspiring. Wonderful setting besides.

Gorgeous old abbey with an important history to Scotland! The museum tells how Robert the Bruce and his dukes signed the declaration of Arbroath. Basically Scotland's declaration of independence! fascinating. a lovely reproduction of that is on display. Sadly much of the abbey and church are ruined as many of the catholic structures of the time are. But a lovely visit.sadly at the time of writing scaffolding and harriers are up so couldn't yet up onto the main abbey gate walkway.next time! Do note they take a lunch break 12:30 to 13:30 so the entry may be closed. free entry for historic Scotland members .

We visited the Abbey in july 2025. Beautiful old building and inside the information centre is an interesting exhibition. We were a bit disappointed though because, only after we purchased tickets, we were We were informed that maintenance work was being carried out on the premises. As a result, the buildings on the site could not be viewed and ugly construction fences were erected everywhere. Despite this, visitors were still charged the full admission price. Not very fair!

Very cool place. Remains are amazingly tall. We got some really good photos. The small museum taught us some history, and the employee was super helpful. Answered all our questions, and gave us a list of other places to see on the way back to Edinburgh.

Imposing remains of what must have been an amazing structure and cultural centre. Interesting, small, museum attached to the visit. The guided tour us useful.

We went to Arbroath abbey,, the office closed for lunch. Should posted lunch hour on the website. We waited for an hour then we went back. The museum has lots of hidden history and lots of reading . The abbey itself is spectacular , it was sunny day and great day to visit on May. it was good day.

Interesting abbey with lots of history. Very nice information building with information and displays. The abbey is mostly ruins and unfortunately some areas were closed off during our visit for restoration. Worth the visit if you are interested in Scottish history. Parking close by.

This is a rare Abbey and should be on anyone who likes this type of history bucket list, hope they can sort the getting into the Abbey itself quickly.

A lovely small free to visit museum detailing the life of lighthouse keepers and the people of Arbroath, and trade and fishing of the area. Some fascinating details and models of the construction of Robert Stephenson's famous Bell Rock lighthouse. (It was a clear day and I could just make it out on the horizon..11miles away out to sea) I only wish I could have climbed the signal tower and used a telescope to see it as they used to do

We found this little gem by accident whilst walking along the seafront at Arbroath and it was free entry. Fascinating look at the signal tower and its part in history linked to the Bell Rock lighthouse which is 11 miles out to sea. Lovely exhibits and interesting info. Well worth a visit.

The Signal Tower Museum in Arbroath just has to be one of the very best museums in Scotland. What a magical place! Such friendly staff too. I am humbled by Arbroath’s history and the potential of its future. If you haven’t been there don’t miss it. You may need to book to view the signal tower lighthouse at the top of the building. On most days the guided tour is at 1PM but best to phone in advance.

This is quite a small museum but absolutely packed with information about lighthouses and the life of the keepers, together with lots of interesting artefacts. We stumbled on it when we were in Arbroath for the day and exploring the harbour area. It’s quite amazing what the keepers and the builders went through to help save ships along that coast.

A nice little free museum

A beautiful Museum, different times and different life styles to today. This Museum has got a bit of everything to interest all ages. My only regret as a keen photographer, was that access to the top of the Tower was not possible at the time. Whether that becomes an option in the future I do not know.

A great place full of facts about the life of the lighthouse crews, the engineering involved in the construction of the Bell Rock lighthouse, the history of it , including the name, the tools & equipment used...etc etc. Well worth a visit. Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, I believe. 😉👍

Scotland's Secret Bunker was a blast to explore! A bit overpriced for what it is, but totally worth it to see how this Cold War-era bunker is built. Amazing to tour the underground complex and get a peek into history - learning about its purpose and the secrecy surrounding it adds to the intrigue. If you're into military history or bunkers, it's a cool spot to check out. Plenty of parking around.

Visited today with my partner, we had a great time. It’s very surreal, so much history and original items on display. So strange being below the surface but you don’t even notice it. Cool tanks on display outside as well which was a nice touch. Very interesting!

This was an amazing place to visit full of insightful information about what would have happened if Nukes were ever launched in anger. Lots to see, not much to interact with but that's understandable. There is a small cafe inside with bright and cheerful staff, providing good quality hot and cold food.

The secret is out, some nutter has put up signs advertising the exact location! Well worth a visit to. This site is both fascinating and terrifying at the same time. Step back in time to the good old days when the spectre of nuclear annihilation loomed large over everyday life. Such wonderful memories. Give the cat a pet from me.

Fantastic place to visit. Very interesting, lots of information. Friendly staff. There is a cafe which serves food and drinks. It is underground and can feel a bit clostrophobic but it's a bunker so it will feel odd.

Oue first experience in a proper bunker. Absolutely great place to visit. It's really very interesting.

This place was really interesting. Despite the fact I'm not really into military history I still had a great and very educational visit. It's so much bigger than I expected and there's so many rooms. Some of the displays were a bit dated and could do with a refresh, however it wasn't a major issue. Look out for the two cats who live in the bunker - unfortunately we didn't spot them!

Easy to miss the tiny road to the parking area. Parking is free. The castle is beautiful. My favourite area of the castle was the prison where you can see the original medieval toilet. 🤷 There's no coffee shop in the area of the reception, so if you plan to eat there be prepared with sandwiches.

Perched on the cliffs east of North Berwick, Tantallon Castle is one of Scotland’s most spectacular coastal fortresses. Its towering red sandstone walls stand defiantly against the North Sea, offering sweeping views across the water to Bass Rock — often shrouded in mist and dotted with seabirds. Exploring the ruins feels like stepping straight into history. You can climb narrow stairways to the ramparts, peer through arrow slits, and imagine the castle as it once was — a mighty stronghold of the Douglas family in the 14th century. Even in ruin, it commands awe. The combination of wild sea air, crashing waves below, and the vast sky overhead makes Tantallon Castle unforgettable.

Wonderful walk through the history of the castle and area. Amazing views and loads of information, and great insight into the different stages of build through the life of the castle. Well worth a visit.

Dramatic castle ruins on the edge of the North Sea. Built by William Douglas @1350 besieged by James IV, James V and then finally Oliver Cromwell. The curtain wall is incredible and climbing to the top looking out on the Bass Rock makes this one of Scotlands Top 20 castles to visit. Part of Historic Scotlands spectacular attractions. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Really nice ruined castle. Very good for maybe 90 mins to two hours to potter around and enjoy the views. Lots of tight stairs to get up on the battlements though, so maybe avoid if you have mobility problems. No cafe, but there are toilets. Stop by Drift nearby if you need a caffeine and cake fix. Some parking close to the entrance, but if it's busy there's another bigger car park nearer the main road.

Absolutely love Tantallon Castle! Been here a few times and never get tired of it. The history, the views, and that stunning sight o Bass Rock — pure magic. A must-see spot on the Scottish coast!

There is a comfortable parking spot not far away from the entrance. The ruins are well maintained and a vast historical site can still be viewed and trespassed. Fair price, good place to bring the kids.

we enjoyed a fantastic tour with Mark who shared his incredible knowledge of St Andrews' history with us, and we even got to enjoy the great view on top of the tower. I would definitely recommend joining one of the tours on site if you're visiting!

Visited the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral on a Saturday morning in late October just after it opened. At that point only a few other people were around so could get some nice photos. Spent some time looking around and soaking in the history. When I was leaving it was getting busier and also looked like a couple of tour groups were also looking around. A interesting landmark to view and they do accept donations to keep the site running.

Absolutely phenomenal ruins of the once must've been amazing cathedral. The current state is still impressive and an absolute must when in the area. Interesting stories about how the relics of St Andrew where brought there. No tickets required to enter the site. Many beautiful tomb stones scattered across the site.

Wow, what an amazing piece of Scottish history and it's free to enter but you can give them a donation if you fell like it. Walking around the grounds let you see just how big this area and the cathedral is. The 160 stairs up to the top of St Rule's Tower is quite a steep climb and not for people with difficulty walking or are maybe a bit claustrophobic. The views from the tip are quite magnificent and worth the climb.

An absolutely incredible place (and free to visit)! I'd highly recommend joining one of the free tours happening twice daily. When I went in early September, they took place at 11am and 3pm. Our guide Kyle was very friendly, patient and knowledgeable, and clearly has a passion for the history of St Andrews. Definitely a highlight of our day trip.

St Andrews Cathedral is a fascinating historical ruin that's well worth a visit. The ruin, although weathered by centuries of history, still retains its imposing character and offers a glimpse into medieval life. Very good location for photographers or history lovers.

We did the free guided tour at the cathedral with Kyle. It was fun and interesting, and he made it easy to follow. Totally worth it, and the place is very beautiful and the tour adds something special to the place.

Very interesting and dark history behind this castle. Very picturesque location on the cliffs of St Andrew’s. You can see the castle easily from outside the fence, but exploring the inside is worthwhile.

St Andrews Castle sits right on the edge of the sea, and there’s something striking about how its ruins rise against the waves. Even though much of it has crumbled, the place still feels powerful, like the stones are holding onto all the stories they’ve seen. This was once the home of bishops and a centre of power in medieval Scotland, so every wall feels like it has witnessed secrets, struggles, and celebrations. Walking through the site, you don’t just see history — you feel it. The bottle dungeon is small, dark, and unsettling, a space that makes you imagine the fear of those who were once locked inside. The underground mine and counter-mine are even more remarkable; crawling through those tunnels gives you a sense of how desperate and determined people were during times of siege. Then you step outside, and the view across the North Sea takes your breath away. The contrast between the beauty of the landscape and the harshness of the castle’s past is part of what makes it so memorable. St Andrews Castle isn’t just another ruin. It’s a place where the drama of history meets the raw beauty of nature, and it leaves a lasting impression.

A must for visiting St Andrews. I love how it is perched on the sea, and i particularly like the museum because it's very interesting and the staff there are lovely. The gift shop is really nice too, they have some very nice things in there. I have a Historic Scotland membership, so I come every time I go to St Andrews. Twinning it with the cathedral is a brilliant idea too. The ruins are very interesting and it's fascinating picturing what it was once like. Excellent!!

I stopped by this historic site while passing through St Andrew's. It was on the visit Scotland package I had purchased so I figured why not. I'm glad I made some time for this place, as it does have quite the storied past. Although it is only a part of what it once was, the visitor center has a lot of great displays and history of the castle. I really enjoyed the mine and counter-mine warfare descriptions, but unfortunately the mine area was under repair. As an engineer, I was really interested in this site. Oh well. Such is the price to maintain history. Thanks for the quick visit.

Nice little castle to wander round. The exhibition at the start was good, the staff were friendly and really helpful. It only got a 4 stars because in typical Historic Scotland fashion the best areas are closed for renovation but they don't reflect this in their prices. Toilets on site and plenty of benches. The views out onto the water are really nice.

Incredible drone filming location - history meets coastal drama As a drone videographer, St Andrews Castle is one of the most visually striking historical sites in Scotland. Perched dramatically on a cliff above the North Sea, the ruins offer sweeping aerial compositions - with a perfect blend of rugged stone, crashing waves, and the town’s character in the background. From above, the layout of the castle really comes alive - the inner courtyard, battlements, and the famous bottle dungeon all form stunning patterns when captured from the sky. The coastal light, especially during golden hour, adds amazing contrast and depth to shots. There’s also a great opportunity to pair footage with the nearby St Andrews Cathedral ruins — just a short walk away and equally spectacular from the air. Important note for fellow drone flyers: This area is close to town, so always check for local flying restrictions. Early mornings are usually quiet and ideal for undisturbed filming. Highly recommended for anyone capturing historical landscapes, coastal drama, or cinematic storytelling in Scotland. A timeless location that never disappoints.

We were visiting St Andrews for a day trip from Stirling and walked around town. We walked around the perimeter of the castle and didn’t go inside. The castle is set on a cliff and has awesome Seaview.

Just had a fab trip on a R.I.B..[Rigid Inflatable Boat!] On the "Three Islands Seabird Seafari!" Would highly recommend it. The guide on the boat was very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly and willing to answer your questions. The boat was alot more comfortable than I thought. Took plenty of photos. Got lucky with the weather. Which is at the hands of mother nature. Would definitely recommend it as youre also supporting a good cause...in terms of the conservation of birds.

They have boat tours for different places like Isle of May (options of landing trips as well), Bass Rock trips (options for landings as well). Well managed and very friendly with great enthusiasm to show the nature and birds on island. I took Bass rock trip, it was super awesome. Charges for boat trip is very competitive. Staff is very courteous and knowledgeable.

We did one of the boat tours - 1 hour around two islands- and it was fun. My 3 kids liked it. Watch for bird poop! Crazy amount of birds in early July

Went there to experience the RIB boat 3 safari island tour. What an experience! Very interesting and a thrilling ride when the RIB went fast.

On Thursday, 24th July 2025, we booked a birdwatching experience with the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick. As we were visiting my son Kiro at St Andrews University, we took public transport to the centre and boarded one of their boats. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. We saw the islands of Craigleith and Bass Rock, where we were amazed to see thousands of birds nesting together in large colonies. The sight was truly impressive, and learning about the lighthouse's history added an extra layer of fascination. What struck most was how close we were able to get to the birds, it felt almost magical. To our delight, we even spotted a puffin, which was such a highlight. A truly mesmerising experience. If you are visiting this part of Scotland, we highly recommend booking one of these trips, it is unforgettable.

DId not get time to go on a tour, but explored the point and the gift shop! Nice selection of keepsakes for adults and children alike.

Went on Isle of May trip 11/4/25 and it was a wonderful experience We booked months ago and got lucky with the weather as it can sometimes be cancelled A small rib of 12 people and our guide Kevin. The island was beautiful, interesting and filled with of history but the main draw is the amount of seabirds We were surrounded by Puffins all the time Kevin our guide was excellent He was friendly and organised and worked hard to make sure everyone had the best time He also offered a guided tour of the island and was extremely knowledgeable about its history and the nature Wear sensible footwear and wrap up for the boat as seats are either outside or partially covered HIGHLY recommended

Birthplace of Bon Scott. Ex lead singer with AC/DC. Worth a visit for photo opportunity.

Any ac/dc fan would want to see the statue where he was brought up before leaving for Australia.

a must for any ACDC fan when visiting Scotland Standing proudly in Kirriemuir, the Bon Scott Statue is a heartfelt tribute to one of rock music's most iconic frontmen. Born Ronald Belford Scott in in 1946, Bon spent his early childhood in Kirriemuir before his family emigrated to Australia in 1952. There, he rose to fame as the charismatic lead singer of AC/DC, leaving an indelible mark on the world of rock before his untimely death in 1980 at the age of 33.

///owner.darling.newlywed I had to ask where the staue was. I've now included the What three words designation above of his staue. Well worth a visit. Currently free parking (bonus). There is also other Bon Scott memorabilia in the museum and a commemorative plaque in the town.

A fine statue in a nice little setting, shows a real likeness of the great man. You can get up and get your selfie no problem! Also some nice information about Bon Scott. If you're in the area it is well worth a visit.

Beautiful memorial, details on the statue are amazing, well worth a visit especially if you're a fan of AC/DC or metal.

If you are acdc fan this place is must, incredible people

Visited on a Monday lunchtime in the October school holidays, not busy and the tour was fantastic. So interesting and informative, no video or photos allowed inside. The gardens are huge. Kitchen and Italian gardens were beautiful, café lunch was fresh and tasty

Really enjoyed the house & grounds. The tour guide was so knowledgeable & I enjoyed learning lots about the history & characters of the house's history. We were lucky with a great autumn day but also really liked the Macbeth loop.

First time visiting Glamis Castle and it was lovely. The castle itself is absolutely breathtaking from the outside and our tour guide John was very entertaining and definitely knew his stuff. The castle was a vast history was damaged in battles, renovated and upgraded in various ways as well. The gardens and various pine walks are beautiful as well, during the tour John mentioned the gardens were designed first and then the castle followed. That is evident when you take pictures of either of them, the garden is so picturesque and flows very well. Overall well worth the ticket price and visit. I recommend going early morning and leaving before the afternoon rush.

Glamis Castle has the most beautiful grounds. We didn't have enough time to do the Castle tour but definitely coming back for it! We were there on a cloudy day but the whole space just makes you feel amazing! All staff are very nice and helpful and its credit to the staff who maintain this beautiful site!

Was passing by and was recommended to have a visit and I’m glad that I did! An incredible castle with extensive grounds that are all looked after immaculately. The tour was great, Abi was our guide and she did a wonderful job. Didn’t have much time to really take everything in so will definitely be back when next in the area.

Very well presented grounds and great friendly Team! Castle Tour was very interesting and Gift Shop was beautiful. Cafe very nice and good selection on offer. Will visit again.

A delightful piece of Scottish history. Tour was informative and at a relaxed pace. The grounds were lovely. Only disappointment was the AI slop in the gift shop. Ensured I didn't buy anything.

Had an amazing time touring Eden Mill! And the price for the amount of drinks they give you is a steal. All the staff were super friendly and the tour was interesting. Hope to visit again after they move into the bigger building.

We stopped in without booking a tour and to our surprise they were extremely kind and accommodating. They showed us around and we got to talk to some of their distillers. It was cool to check out their setup and hear their story. All of their products were fantastic, we had a hard time choosing which one to bring home. Visiting Eden Mill is a must when in St. Andrews!

Brilliant walk, amazing views across various trails, lots of them to choose from. Some shorter than others but most are lengthy so if that's your thing then go for it! The one around the loch offers great views and the difficulty is rather easy so good for beginner walkers. We walked up to the top of black hill and then back down and around the loch which was quite lengthy but worth it, especially the walk around the loch. The view from up black hill was great but you'd probably get better ones from atop different peaks around the area. Overall a brilliant experience, stunning nature views and a great glance at the estate.

Beautiful, we did the 8 mile circuit around the Loch, with bikes. Not one of my best ideas but worth it,

Best and moderate trekking place with amazing views if you're near to Aberdeen and shire. 2 major routes one is circuit and the other is getting to top and both are very reachable and can be done with in 4-5 hours combined. If you're lucky you will see stags - largest I've seen in scotland from that close

We came on a little family holiday to Ballater, my son being obsessed with nature was desperate to see some Red deer stags. We were told by so many people that the stags would be hiding away in the hills but today we got lucky. The walk, the views, the wildlife was just breathtaking. The weather was mostly sunny with showers of rain, windy but warm. Would 100% recommend a visit.

It is worth visiting, leaving the car in the car park. Walk 15-20 minutes to the lake. Spectacular views, only it rained the whole way.

We had a memorable time together hiking around Loch Muick. We walked from Ballater to the loch which took us around 4 hours. We enjoyed our hike, deers running around and the natural beauty around loch.

Beautiful loch around an hour and a half west of Aberdeen. Well worth a visit and a walk up the southern side gives stunning views of the Loch below.

The castle ruins are interesting, though mostly ruins there’s plenty to explore. Such a beautiful place, the grounds are lovely, first time we have seen a Doocot. Would be even better in the summer with all the flowers out. Parking available along the road.

This was a lovely find. A very charming castle ruins with its own fascinating quirks, stood overlooking a beautifully kept, colourful garden - loved the Hollyhocks - with an unexpected bowls' lawn in immaculate condition. Nearby was a Doocot in excellent condition which allows you to walk in and imagine the scene, back in the day, when it was full of nesting pigeons.

Even half closed for maintenance, it was still worth going. Looking at the description boards in each section and comparing to the ruins really transported you back to what it might have been like. Helpful young man on the entrance counter. Beautifully kept gardens.

Fantastic little castle from 12th century to the time of Oliver Cromwell. Nice gardens too. About half of the castle can't currently be accessed, awaiting renovation, but still lots to explore. Full moat and bridge access. Huge cellars. Currently half price due to loss of access (£4.50) so great value. Takes about an hour to visit, free parking. Access is via gate on main road (back down slope from car park). No cafe, but pub just across the road.

Have been to more interesting castles. A lot of it was shut off and was not available. What there was made it just about worth visiting. The dovecot...they call it a doocot...was interesting. Not particularly memorable overall. The gardens are lovely.

Entrance fee at half price (£4,50 instead of £9) as there is currently no visitor access to the Guard House, South Entrance and De Vaux range.

I enjoyed my visit here. Considering some parts of the Castle are closed for renovation. There is still plenty to see and enjoy. I arrived by public transport there is a bus stop right outside and direct from North Berwick. Once inside, you are immediately drawn to the doocot which is really impressive. I was also impressed with the massive cellars, although I might not have fancied the working conditions. I was here about an hour, I had a good explore. There is a small souvenir shop and I should say it closed at lunchtime the day I visited. That didn't affect me and it was possibly because I was here in March, not the height of the season.

A nice place to visit, but not somewhere to stay for a long time. Car park was very busy, we were lucky to get a space. Discovery Point itself was fairly quiet, especially considering visiting on a Sunday.

Both an historic ship and an excellent museum, RSS Discovery point is a great gateway into history. There is active repair and restoration underway aboard the ship at the mo, which enhances the experience. The sound of hammering and works by the shipwrights make you experience what it was like when the ship was being built and prepared over a century ago.

A captivating dive into Dundee’s maritime heritage Discovery Point and the RRS Discovery offer a fantastic experience for anyone interested in history, exploration, or maritime life. The museum is well laid out, starting with interactive galleries that take you through the story of the RRS Discovery – from its construction in Dundee to its legendary Antarctic expedition with Captain Scott and Ernest Shackleton. The displays are informative, engaging, and full of interesting artifacts, photographs, and videos that really bring the story to life. The highlight, of course, is stepping aboard the RRS Discovery itself. It’s incredibly well-preserved, and you get to walk through the actual ship – from the engine room to the officers’ quarters and the upper deck. It gives a real sense of what life would have been like on board over 100 years ago during extreme polar conditions. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on exhibits and the ability to explore freely. Another great feature is the Discovery Dome, which includes an immersive cinematic experience and often showcases large-scale art installations like Luke Jerram’s suspended globe, Gaia. It’s visually stunning and adds a modern, creative touch to the historical experience. The facilities are clean and accessible, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. There’s also a café and gift shop on site, and the location is ideal—right by the waterfront and next to the V&A Dundee and Slessor Gardens. It’s easy to make a full day out of the visit. Tickets are reasonably priced, with discounts for families and concession holders. It’s also worth noting that you can buy a combined ticket with Verdant Works if you’re interested in Dundee’s industrial heritage. In short, Discovery Point is a brilliant mix of education and adventure, with something for all ages. Whether you’re local or visiting Dundee for the first time, it’s a must-see attraction that beautifully tells the story of courage, science, and exploration.

Discovery Point and RRS Discovery This museum offers an extraordinarily detailed look into the history of the research ship RRS Discovery. With numerous original artifacts from the ship and its crew, you can really relive the story (without having to freeze in Antarctica, thankfully). Plenty of text and video displays keep the information flowing, covering everything from seafaring and politics to technology, biology, and modern history. The tour of the ship itself is seriously impressive—it’s hard to believe the journeys this vessel and its crew actually survived. Fun fact: your ticket automatically doubles as a 1-year pass. So if you really love ships, you can come back again (and again). And yes, of course there’s a souvenir shop—because what’s a museum without one?

Highly recommend had a wonderful day today at Discover point and RRS Discovery purchased ticket pass for also Verdant works museum really good price from 10.30 til 4pm ,on my dundee Scotland holiday absolutely fantastic the exhibition, displays, all the videos you wish to listen to, very moving , history all the way to the present ,the finale was to experience the RRS Discovery what a beautiful she is , high praise the team who are doing g work to preserve her to be able to go inside and upstairs was a privilege, the toilet facilities very clean and the gift shop i had some fun spending x the team all very friendly x thanks for an amazing visit cheers nicki t car park i do recommend City Quay just a 5 minute walk x

one of best visitors attraction, we the museum was really interesting, is gem for the persons who love to explore the history. There are so many different things to explore are available, we are so happy that we able to sit on ship it was great experience, the museum had great information on Dundee maritime history, we thought we only going to visit the ship but there's many and more things which we never expected LOL

Fantastic museum telling the story of antarctic explorations. Scenes have been created showing life on the ice and there is a wealth of fascinating information on the life of the explorers, with details of their food needed for the long time away and the clothes that were needed to combat the temperatures. There are separate displays of the history of whale hunting and others about the building of the Discovery and the shipbuilding history of Dundee. All these are fully accessible for a wheelchair user. After spending time here we then went outside to visit the ship itself. This too had a ramp so that the top deck was accessible. A wonderful guide was on hand to talk to my wife in her wheelchair why I went below deck to explore. In all, this was a wonderful few hours spent, which I would recommend to any visitors to Dundee

June 2022, nice location for a coffee and bite, great roads to its destination, great scenery, food choice is limited but overall it’s worth a stop

My son and I spent Friday 31 January 2025 practicing our recently learned basic snowboarding skills on the slopes of Glenshee. What an absolutely beautiful day. No wind, some sunshine and lovely snow. We first went to the training area for a bit of a warm-up and an introduction to the poma lift (a new experience for us). Then off to the bigger slopes with longer and faster poma lifts. All of the Glenshee team were great. Our thanks to Ben (equipment hire) for getting our kit sorted and a huge thank you to Colin who was manning the Claybokie lift. Colin, you made my day by helping me get to grips with the lift. Thank you. We will definitely be heading back for more at Glenshee.

Brilliant run on my bike to Glenshee. Nice to visit in the summer, great cup of tea and biscuits. Usually visit in the winter for the last 30 odd years brilliant skiing on the tiger 🐅 and over the back of sunnyside. Maybe next year xx

Great place to learn to ski and improve. Despite there not being any heavy snowfall, the centre makes sure to make snow for the two beginner slopes and a blue run. The cafe is clean and warm with reasonably priced food and drinks available. The cafe has free WiFi, is dog friendly and provides food options for Gluten Free and Vegetarian upon request. We camped with our roof tent on one of the electric hook up spaces the centre has. Great price, but a lack of facilities (no showers or water tap) but staff will fill water containers in the cafe for you upon request. But just something to be aware of if you're planning on staying for more than a night or two. Also worth noting that if you're staying with a roof tent to check the wind speeds and gusts as they can get very high. All the staff we encountered during our stay were amazing! Friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. This especially goes for the staff in the ski hire, who are able to help find the right equipment for you, and providing enthusiasm needed for a nervous beginner. Overall we had a fantastic stay and time here.

I used to make a point of stopping off here for coffee & cake, not because I particularly wanted to but to support the company & ski industry. But last winter, I arrived for a walk in the snow, I also had my ski touring kit. The snow was awful & only 2 lifts were open. On the opposite side of the road to the open lifts, I thought a I saw a possible line of ascent with ski touring gear. So I went up for an hour or so. The snow cover was poor & very thin. I met a maintenance guy, Angus, son of the owner. Had a pleasant chat with him, he explained that to “ski” on this land within the ski area boundary, I needed a £25 ski tourer pass. So I said I’d buy one at the bottom. Once I’d descended, I got hassled by an older guy, who was less pleasant and told me to get a ski pass. I told him that’s what I was doing & I’d spoken to Angus earlier. He just wouldn’t let it go. So I just walked off & bought said pass. So, in summary, I paid for coffee, cake, parking & a ski pass, for a couple of hours padding about on crappy snow, didn’t even use the lifts. I haven’t stopped there since and probably never will. I live in Perth & drive past fairly regularly. So that’s 1 customer lost forever.

I love Glenshee. Staff are decent people and facilities are good for what it is. Yes you may have some small queues for ski hire and restaurant at lunch time but if you take your own gear and packed lunch that avoids the hassles! There’s loads of rental places from the south side (after Blairgowrie) of the ski centre if you need to rent and they’re cheaper. I consider myself a fairly rubbish boarder to be honest but I found I had plenty of space and time do dart about at my own pace. Staff are good on the pomas too so I didn’t feel too rushed. Guys do a good job or trying to keep runs open and covering bare/icy spots where possible. I saw a few staff on skis so I felt super safe too. I hope the weather is kind to these guys and they get loads of good seasons in the future. And the views. WOW! This is the longest review I’ve left ! Haha. Recommended.

Stopped by while visiting Scotland, bought a sled for my little boy to have his first ever go at sledding and we had a great time. We didn’t get to sample the cafe as the cue was out the door but that says it all a very popular place. Plenty of toilet facilities, great when you have a health condition like myself so felt comfortable there. Car park was a mix of snow ice and flooded in areas so not for a none confident driver. Overall a lovely time spent exploring Glenshee Ski Centre and would love to return.

We found this hidden gem of a winery by doing what we do best: getting absolutely, irreversibly lost. One wrong turn off a B-road, two sheep-related traffic delays, and suddenly we were pulling into a charming little vineyard that looked like it had been teleported in from southern France, then politely given a Scottish accent. The place oozed rustic charm, like it had been built by someone who loves both horticulture and quaint tea towels. Inside, we were greeted by a host so lovely we’d probably trust her with our passwords. Warm, welcoming, and dangerously persuasive when it came to encouraging wine purchases. We went in to “just have a look,” and left with enough fruit wine to open a small pirate tavern. And let’s talk about that wine. Sweet, fruity, and full of personality — like Ribena grew up, went to university, and came back as a sommelier. There was cherry, bramble, blackcurrant, elderflower, and possibly something made from the tears of unicorns. Every bottle we tasted (or sneakily sniffed) felt like it belonged on a sun-drenched terrace, not in the boot of a confused tourist’s car. They also had cider, which we didn’t expect, but fell in love with immediately. Refreshing, crisp, and dangerously drinkable. You could bring it to a picnic and accidentally start a cult following. The only regret — and it was a big one — is that we’d already eaten. Their wee café looked absolutely delightful, full of local treats and homemade whatnots, and there was a wine tasting tour we didn’t have time for because the real world (and Google Maps) was calling us back. Rookie mistake. Never trust your sat-nav over your stomach. Next time, we’re skipping breakfast, booking a tour, and possibly renting a wheelbarrow for the wine haul. Final thoughts: If you find yourself somewhere in Scotland and the road takes you somewhere unexpected — follow it. Especially if it smells faintly of blackberries and destiny. This place is a treasure, and we’re already planning our next “accidental” detour.

Cairn O' Mohr Fruit Wines is a strange place, but in the best possible way. The location is charming, the food is delicious, and the wines are truly exceptional! They are very original, niche, and you simply won't find anything like them in standard stores—they are incomparably better than the mass-produced alternatives. My favourites are the Gooseberry and Elderflower and the Plain Elderflower. I look forward to tasting their other available options soon! Furthermore, the staff is kind and welcoming, you don't have to wait long for the food, and the atmosphere is wonderfully homely.

The wines, ciders or sparkling wines here are very good, some more tasty than others. You can taste whichever ones you fancy before you decide. Lovely, friendly service. Clean. Restaurant food beautifully cooked. Highly recommend this winery, not ashamed to say we left with a crate full!

We had a lovely lunch followed by an interesting tour afterwards. The tour guide had worked there for well over 30 years and new every aspect of the business. We finished with a tasting of about 10 different wines or ciders. The tour only cost £10... incredible value. Well Done the Cairn o Mohr team 👏👏

disabled access and toilet. Dogs allowed inside café. Staff friendly, good coffee (3 americano and 1 latte just under £15). Always busy for breakfasts at weekends. We didn't eat but food and cakes looked great with empty plates going back to kitchen.

We booked a tour of the Winery for two people, Angie was our guide for the tour she was very knowledgeable and quite funny at times. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and the wine and cider tasting after. Would we go back? Definitely would we recommend a tour? Definitely. We'll be calling back at the winery in December on our way south to pick up another stash for presents.

Great place to visit, brilliant food, not far off the motorway

A wonderful place to visit. A stunning building with many very knowledgeable staff on hand to tell you the history of the many rooms. The palace is very well preserved. Once you have walked round the palace the grounds are a must as well, with the world's oldest tennis court which is still used to this day, to the orchard and foundations of the original castle. A fabulous day out with a nice gift shop at the end.

Gradually getting around the castles with my NTS card,free entry yay. Well worth a visit with a lot of history. Plenty informed guides to tell all about the rooms . The gardens are very nice ,so is the tennis court. Highlander was filmed here and you can see why as the little lanes and closes don't look they have changed over the years.

Amazing palace and the volunteers and the knowledge they share is fascinating. To see Mary Queen of Scots dress like up I loved along with her bed, it's small! The grounds are gorgeous and lots of beautiful photo opportunities. The village is beautiful as well and everyone so friendly and welcoming

Yes, if youre a national trust member or Scotland trust you can enter for free as part of your annual membership. Its a nice house (palace) and when we went (Monday morning) the young lady on the welcome desk was great with her enthusiasm and knowledge explaining everything to us. The guides inside were enthusiastic too, maybe a Monday morning thing. Lots to keep you busy for a few hours, the gardening is great and worth seeing the old tennis court too.

Enjoyable day, a lot to see. Carpark not on premises, no cafe but lovely places nearby. Splendid rooms in the palace. Pleasant grounds to explore including the olest tennis court in the world.

Really enjoyed our visit to Falkland Palace! The staff were very friendly and welcoming, and the place itself is beautiful and full of history. The grounds are quite large. We didn’t manage to see the whole garden this time, but we loved what we saw. Definitely planning to come back for another visit!

Whit can we say that hasna been said aboot this braw gem o’ a place? We made our wye tae Falkland Palace on a brisk October day, the kind that gies ye clean chowks an’ maks ye feel alive, an’ I’m here tae tell ye, the hale experience was jist grand. It’s nae jist a pile o’ auld stanes; it’s a livin’, breathin’ thing, an’ we left feelin’ we’d shaken hauns wi’ history. First, a word on the practicalities. For onybody drivin’, we had nae bother findin’ a spot for the motor. The on-street parkin’ was free for the takin’ in October, which is aye a welcome bonus, savin’ the siller for a fine piece an’ a cuppie later. Noo, for the palace itsel’. Let me tell ye, it’s a sicht for sair een. As ye come up on it, the Renaissance façade is jist stunnin’, a proper royal hoose nestled in the hert o’ Fife. It doesna feel like a museum, but like ye’ve stepped back through time an’ the laird an’ lady micht jist be doon the close. The guide buke will tell ye it was the favourite howff o’ the Stewart monarchs, an’ efter seein’ it, ye can fair believe it. The guides, man, the guides! They were the heid o’ the parade. They werena jist gien us a list o’ dates an’ facts. Naw, naw. They were the heid o’ the parade. They were storytellers, pure an’ simple, an’ their passion for the place was catchin’. They painted pictures wi’ their words, tellin’ us tales o’ King James V an’ Mary, Queen o’ Scots, that made the history leap aff the waw. They were gey frien’ly an’, maist importantly, hoonest. They telt us straight that some o’ the famous tapestries were aff the waws an’ awa’ for safekeepin’ while a passagewey was gettin’ a needed mend. We could see the wark gaun on, an’ it didna spoil a thing. In fact, it added tae it – it showed this isna a deid place, but a livin’ hoose that needs care, like ony auld hoose. Inside, the Royal Apartments are jist magnificent. Even withoot some tapestries, the atmosphere is thick wi’ the past. Ye can staun in the King’s Bedroom an’ imagine him waukin’ there. The furniture, the paintins, the heraldic glass – it’s a’ a feast for the een. The Chapel Royal is a wee, quiet sanctuary, a bonnie spot for a moment’s peace. But hear me noo, for the crownin’ glory for me was the Real Tennis Court. No’ jist ony tennis court, mind! It’s the auldest in the warld still in use, frae the 1500s. Staunin’ there, lookin’ at thae auld waws, ye can near hear the thud o’ the ba’ an’ the cheers o’ the courtiers. It’s a thrill for onybody that appreciates history ye can touch. We finished our dauner wi a turn aroon the gairdens. Even in the back-end o’ the year, they were a peaceful delight. The Orchard, the physic gairden, the ancient yew hedges – it’s a’ managed wi’ a lovin’ haun, a perfect complement tae the grandeur o’ the palace. A’ thegither, it was a day oot that had the lot: braw scenery, deep history, brilliant storytellers, an’ a wheen o’ hame truths aboot keepin’ our heritage alive. It’s a place that deserves its five stars an’ then some. We’ll be back, nae doot aboot it, an’ we’d urge onybody wi’ a hert for Scotland’s story tae dae the same. A pure, unadulterated joy.

Beautiful hills. Easy for a small walk. It takes around half an hour to get the top depends on your speed. Nice place for a family walk and talk. On the top side you can see the big picture of Edinburgh city.

Ban the cars and add deer. No other natural feature quite defines a UK city like the crags in Holyrood. As a result it has a magnetic effect on all who see it. You can stay low and flat, or trot up to the trig point. The very northern end of the crag affords a most intriguing panorama of the Royal Mile from Holyrood Palace all the way up to Edinburgh Castle.

Holyrood Park in Edinburgh is a stunning natural escape right in the heart of the city. Spanning hills, lochs, and rugged cliffs, it offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. The park is home to Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Edinburgh. Whether you're walking around St. Margaret’s Loch, exploring the Salisbury Crags, or just enjoying a peaceful picnic, the park feels refreshingly wild and open. It’s great for hikers, photographers, or anyone needing a break from the city buzz. A must-visit for nature lovers and those wanting to explore Edinburgh’s outdoors.

Such a beautiful visit especially around Christmas time. Audio guide is included with tickets and super informative. An amazing experience as the palace is relevant from Jacobite times to modern times as a working castle and is simply exquisite.

After parking near the pond, we took the side route uphill, which proved to be a steep but quick path to the St. Anthony Chapel. From there, we continued our ascent towards Arthur's Seat, but the climb was challenging due to the slippery pebbles and rocky terrain. It required careful footing to navigate the path safely. Despite the exertion, the breathtaking views from the top made every step worthwhile – the panoramic scenery was truly stunning. For those who do not want to climb all the way up, the pond has lost of seagulls, ducks and pigeon for entertainment!

Unparalleled majesty. I walk here as often as I can, and up to Arthur's Seat. During busy periods, I don't always get out of the city as much as I want to, or need to, to go to my favorite spots around Scotland or the national parks. So I don't know what I'd do without my Holyrood hikes to clear my head and my lungs. It's so rejuvenating, and romantic. I love it here and sometimes take my friend's dog too when I'm looking after her. I've been here now in every weather, in all of the seasons. Never fails to make me feel better. It's photogenic, but the views have to be seen in person to be appreciated fully. The breeze can be biting but as the Norwegians say, there is no bad weather, only bad clothes!

This is a really lovely place to walk around, there’s lots to see and lots to do with some birds around also including herons, pigeons, ducks, and the occasional Raven or other Corvid. You could easily spend a few hours walking around this area.

Really beautiful view from this spot! I recommend going at sunset, it’s very romantic and peaceful. The hike is manageable for beginners, just make sure to wear appropriate shoes (no heels!). It’s a bit rocky at the top, so be careful, and enjoy the view!

Absolutely worth the hike! We took our whole family, including small children, and everyone made it to the top. It took us a little extra time with the little ones, but the views are incredible and totally worth the effort. Definitely check the weather before you go — the path can get slippery both on the way up and down. Ice cream trucks waiting at the bottom were the perfect treat after the climb! A great family adventure and a must-do when visiting Edinburgh!

It's a trek bit the views are amazing and well worth it. However, at the top it gets very busy and both times I've been up there we've had to queue to get to the marker at the top. Best bit for me was taking the route down off the far side and walking around the surrounding park - very few people and stunning countryside.

We enjoyed checking out Arthur’s seat. It can be a little treacherous, because of the steepness of the climb and the lack of a distinct path. Be ready for some exercise and go when there is plenty of daylight. You do not want to climb on the rocks up the hillside in the dark/at dusk.

The entire hike up and down took around 2 hours including spending time taking photos and a few breaks in between. It's an advanced beginner hike and shoes with a good grip are recommended. I did this in my regular trainers so it's not entirely impossible, just that it gets quite rocky especially at the last stretch to the top. It can also get quite windy too. The view was so worth it, a must for the bucket list!

Great little hike to the top. Accessible for most able-bodied people but not wheelchairs or buggies etc. Swarms of insects at the top and can get quite crowded. Some loose scree etc.to scramble up for a quicker route but a reasonable, less steep footpath also gets you to the top for wonderful views over city, fields and the bay.

This is an amazing place for views, but be prepared to work for it. There are two ways up, so do your research based on your skill level. The last bit is all rocks, so be careful of when you go and know your limits and skills. The views make this all worth it, so this is a must see while in Edinburgh.

I loved being able to walk around at my own pace listening to the audio guide. Loved learning about the history and the kings/queens who lived there. No photos allowed inside. Beautiful gardens also and a café.

Palace of Holyroodhouse is a beautiful and majestic place located at the end of the Royal Mile. It’s one of Edinburgh’s most important historic landmarks, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s royal history. The palace features stunning architecture, elegant rooms, and lovely gardens that add to its charm. However, photography is not allowed in most of the rooms to protect the historic artifacts and furnishings. Despite that, the visit is truly worth it — the atmosphere, details, and royal elegance make it an unforgettable experience.

Have taken so many friends and relatives on tours of Holyroodhouse, and never come away without learning or seeing something new. This is more than a palace or museum, this is a fascinating part of a nation's history, only diminished in its value because rogue political 'leaders' think they know better than the rest of the population! Well worth a visit, again and again.

This was definitely worth a visit. Yes, it does cost to go in but the handset made it worthwhile as they had an interactive app that helped the kids to learn, search and play. Out of all the historic sites we went to, they learnt the most at this site. The palace was beautiful and well maintained. There was one area (tight staircase heading to Mary's room) that would be an issue to get to for those who struggle to walk upstairs. There was no signage to provide another route. Other than that, we had a fabulous time and my 3 kids aged from 7 to 14 all enjoyed it. All in all, a breathtaking

Really cool place to visit! You get to walk through real royal rooms and learn lots of interesting stories (the audio guide is super helpful). The palace feels grand but still very peaceful, and the gardens are beautiful too. A perfect stop if you want a mix of history and chill vibes in Edinburgh.

Lovely place to visit. Lovely to see the rooms and lovely collection of art and wonderful tapestries , Take the audio tour as very interesting can't take photos in the palce but that doesn't distract from the experience. You can always get a brochure.

Interesting castle and history. Recommend taking the after hours guided tour. No one else around. The guide was very knowledgeable and interesting. The tour also includes the gardens and the abbey. And they give you a souvenir book!

It is surprisingly for an Indian to go so easily inside a parliament. It is almost impossible to do so in India. More than that they also allow free tours and children craft activities

Amazing building of the Scottish parliament. They do allow public tours and the inside was remarkable. They also have a lovely cafe inside.

Stepping into the Scottish Parliament was both exciting and enlightening. The modern architecture of the building immediately caught my eye, with its bold and distinctive design that contrasts beautifully with Edinburgh’s historic charm. Everything inside felt open, bright, and thoughtfully arranged. I found it fascinating to learn more about Scotland’s political life and to explore the areas open to visitors. The emphasis on transparency and accessibility was impressive, and the whole experience left me with a deeper appreciation for Scotland’s democratic values.

If you’re in Scotland, you have to come and see this amazing building and experience what the parliament does in Scotland. We had a really interesting talk by one of the guides who told us all about departments and the history about it and how this new amazing building has come to be since 1999. Just so much to do here.

Fantastic experience. We did the tour inside this beautiful parliament, and we were stunned about the history and the design. It is totally worth visiting the Scottish Parliament while you visit Edinburgh

Very enjoyable, interesting and educational FREE guided tour (book in advance). Our guide Aaron was engaging and a great storyteller sharing Scottish history, explaining how the parliament works and about the beautiful architecture and symbolism of features within the building. Tour was just under an hour. All of the staff in the building were friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and were happy to chat and answer questions. Cafe was great too.

Whether you’re interested in architecture or keen to learn more about the Scottish Parliament, this is the place to be! Admission is free, and visitors may even get the chance to sit in and listen to MPs debating — though this only happens on specific dates. Highly recommended for anyone interested in politics, international affairs, or public policy.

A very worthwhile experience if it's your first time, interesting and informative with something of a focus on the history of Earth Science that is rare to see. But if you have been before then it's not much changed since your last visit, the parking is expensive (and poorly signposted) and the lifts to the car park may not be working.

This is a brilliant place, so much to see and do! Very well done, you can’t go wrong! Staff are amazing, helpful and knowledgeable. A fantastic day out. We pre booked, and also parked there. Food was great too! 👌🏻

Beautiful venue to attend a concert. The only issue it was too hot and they didn't have AC, I know it's Scotland and many places don't have AC, apart from that beautiful place.

A must visit. The staff were excellent, everyone were very helpful and engaging. The planetarium show 'You are here' was very good. The lady who presented it did a great job.

Make sure to book online - cheaper We did planetarium show - 30 minutes Was informative for kids

We had a wonderful time here. It's been done really well. We never felt rushed or over crowed. Kids (4 &5) had an amazing time learning about everything. Was lovely that there was so much to see and do. The staff all really helpful and friendly. Touching the iceberg was a favourite thing to do.

Visited with my family, and kids absolutely love this place! Each exhibition gives us an immersive experience. We also had the chance to visit the planetarium, which is an amazing show. My favourite is the 3D movie inside. It was amazing! I highly recommend booking the package, including the planetarium. There's a gift shop and cafe too. I had a lovely day there, it is a very convenient place, the location is also just a walking distance from the train station. It's a guided tour. Before the entrance, we offered to put our bags and belonging to the blue box. I forgot to take mine after the show. I came back and filled the lost and found form, and after a few days, I decided to contact them via online platform. I'm glad that they finally contacted me to pick up my belongings. Thank you very much. Would love to go back. Wonderful experience, worth visiting while in Edinburgh!

Large area to explore. The mill itself was quite interesting showing the mill work thro the years. Diff levels to look at and listen to past mill workers talking about their working life there. After we came out we walked to the river then came back and sat and had a picnic on a seating area next to car park

Great place to visit. Interactive, good fun. Free parking. A short river walk and free with English Heritage.

Thoroughly enjoyed our visit here. There are some nice interactive games, pictures of its hey day, and archeology. Some of the exhibition floors are how they would have been hundreds of years ago and given a good perspective of how it would have been. I have marked it down a star purely because it has the potential to be even better.

Highly recommended. Fascinating exhibition with many interactive exhibits explaining the history and working of the mills. The model showing the working of the different mill wheels and turbines with water was a highlight. It is also possible to take a pleasant walk along the river bank above the mills.

The mill is a short drive away from the A9, through the village of Stanley down by the River Tay. It’s a big river here so easy to understand why it was built here. Plenty of parking and a short walk to the museum. All the buildings beside the parking are converted mill buildings with flats inside. So the museum is only a small part of the whole site but still worth a walk all round. Inside the museum there are several halls over three floors each with a different function. There are interpretations of the history and all the processes used at the site along with some original machinery. There was an exhibition of Scottish rock carvings on the top floor, with very good pictures of the best sites and descriptions of these mysterious markings. It must have been a huge mechanical feat to power all the machines in the place. Refreshments available together with a small shop.

Superb place to visit for the day. Plenty to do and see, good for the kids.

Stanley Mill has been beautifully restored, the building is gorgeous. The staff there are helpfull, knowledgable and very pleasant. My wife and I took our 3 boys with us and we all had a great day out. Unfortunately, much of the buildings are now residential, so, although it looks huge, there is only really 1 building to explore. There are still a decent amount of rooms and floors to visit though, and you'll spend between and hour and 2 exploring. There is a lot of information and displays, however, many of the interactive buttons don't work. If the buttons had worked and there had been a cafe, I'd have scored it 5. It's a great place but it could be better. If you do visit, there is a walk down to the river, just walk along the road to Stanley House, before you reached the private gate, there is a path on the right heading to the river. It's a nice circular walk that brings you back out on the grassy hill above the mills. Taking your time and enjoying the scenery, the walk will take about 45 minutes.

I loved my visit to scone castle. The grounds were well kept and lovely, the maze was grand until I got worried I wouldn’t get out and almost broke through a hedgerow. The peacocks were out and about being lively, but I didn’t approach them (as per the warning at the gate). I’m giving this four stars because 1) at a place called Scone Palace, you ought to have a grande scone… mine was okay, though the preserves were delicious. 2) just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. The ivory… not in the greatest taste, but understandable. The elephant foot stool? Shut the front door. The mounted elephant skulls and poorly taxidermied bears also felt like someone should check out how much room to store things in the basement or perhaps donate them to somewhere educational. That’s my rant, but I do recommend going. Just don’t panic in the maze!

One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to in my life. I spent some of the most unforgettable days at this palace I truly enjoyed every moment. The nature around it is absolutely breathtaking and feels unreal. The shops there were beyond amazing, and I bought some really lovely gifts. I completely fell in love with this palace it’s stunning, and every corner is full of wonder. The staff were wonderful and everything was clearly explained.

A stunning Palace steeped in history. The guides share an abundance of knowledge with the history of the Palace and Scotland. The only disappointment was not being able to take any photos inside the Palace. They say it's for security of the family who still live there but they are happy to have thousands of visitors explore their home, at a cost.

INFORMATIVE! Great guides, cheery faces, noisy peacocks 😂. A beautiful building and grounds with such historic significance, everything ran smoothly, the guides answered every question with more details than you'd get from just asking Google. If you are using a mobility scooter, make sure you have good power/traction as the gravel square at the entrance is definitely a scooter killer. The cafe was good however the kids on the To-go cups didn't fit even remotely and in order for the lady behind the counter to secure it she had to run her hand/fingers over the entire lid... Not the best considering that's going to be attached my lips soon...

an absolutely amazing palace that was on my must see places on our visit to Scotland ...unfortunately can't take pics inside the palace but its splendour is to be marvelled...definitely do yourself a favour and put on your list of things to visit ...Scone is a place that breathes history like nowhere else in Scotland. Today, in the 21st century, it is the home of the Earls of Mansfield, and a major attraction to visitors from all over the world, most famous as The Crowning Place of Scottish Kings.

It's the first time I've visited. I was born and brought up in Perth,so I'm ashamed I took so long. Beautiful Palace and gardens. The staff are very helpful and each room had codes and pages to explain everything. The gardens are excellent too,especially the tall trees and the peacocks. Don't get lost in the maze though.

Spent 5 hours wandering the palace, the Kirk and the grounds. The audio guide (accessed by QT code on your phone) was very detailed and really explained the place well. The riverside and woodland walks were really relaxing and helped to make the most of the visit. Handy for a weekend visit to Perth... which had a lot to offer to.

A lovely place to visit with great views over the Loch. The centre has a souvenir shop, plenty of clean toilets. Gravel car park with parking charges. We actually went to an outdoor theatre group at 7pm. Had a picnic watching the Shakespear show.

Great visitor centre and cafe. Did the wetland trail. There are several hides and you are quite a way from the water do bring binoculars or you can hire them for £7. Parking (a charge) is spacious and there's an underpass for the road. We went to see the pink-footed geese and were not disappointed. Heard them before we saw them.

Fantastic place to visit. Stunning. Great hides and cameras. Good signage. Lovely cafe and a wonderful view. All the staff were amazing. They were so helpful and friendly. They helped make our visit fabulous. Thank you to them all and they are a credit to RSPB. Wonderful people

Lovely visit, be warned though the walk up the hill can be steep, but it has fantastic views. We also enjoyed lovely takeaway sandwiches from the cafe.

Fabulous place to visit. So peaceful with some cracking views. Staff are friendly & obviously work very hard

Always love visiting. Beautiful walk around the loch and into the forest to see red squirrels. Was lucky enough to see an Osprey hunt for fish. A great day out

Nice reserve with extensive wetlands and a woodland walk. There are three hides providing views of pools and wet grasslands. On my last visit I saw a Marsh Harrier and four Ospreys. Ospreys don't breed here but fish in the Loch, especially in late summer. There are Red Squirrels in the woods and Brown Hares in the fields. The visitor centre is staffed by helpful volunteers and has an excellent cafe with loads of tasty vegan options, which suits me. UPDATE the cafe menu has changed, now consists of bought in sandwiches and light bites. The excellent range of vegan cakes has gone.