I really enjoyed my visit to the museum. It was a great way to learn about not only maritime facts such as oil rigs and ships but also Aberdeen history. All the displays were done with great care and the exhibitions were very informative. The view to the port was also splendid and the gift shop selection was nice.

An excellent experience. An easy walk from the Railway Station. This museum is free, but you can donate by card or cash. Very friendly staff and an amazing space over five floors and three buildings. The museum features the maritime history of the area as well as the oil and gas industry. It also features exhibits on occasion. A reasonably priced gift shop featuring local souvenirs. I would visit here if you have an interest in maritime history, but is interesting for those who aren't.

Lovely museum, lovely architecture. The cherry on the cake was the free guided tour tough, offered by knowledgeable and utmost kind Robert who made it special by picking a particular parts and making his lecture around these. Learned a lot and in a very friendly atmosphere, many thanks!!

A visit worth taking while in Aberdeen (or if residing here). Deployed in 4 floors, illustrates the history of Aberdeen shipbuilding and UK offshore drilling off Scotland coast. The abundance of wood all around creates a really cozy environment. Allow >1 hour to tour as it’s really interesting.

Can’t believe this amazing place is free! 😍 I love museums...they always take us back in time and make us feel part of history. The displays, ship models, and harbour views here were just beautiful. 🌊⚓️ The Aberdeen Maritime Museum, located on Shiprow overlooking the harbour, is one of the city’s most fascinating free attractions. It’s housed in a blend of historic and modern buildings, including Provost Ross’s House, which dates back to 1593. The museum beautifully showcases Aberdeen’s deep connection with the sea — from shipbuilding and fishing to the modern North Sea oil and gas industry. One of its main highlights is the impressive 9-metre model of the Murchison oil platform, along with intricate ship models, artefacts, and interactive displays spread across four floors. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the harbour from the upper galleries, making it a perfect mix of history, culture, and coastal charm. 🌊⚓️

Lovely area, a good way to undertake the deep history of Aberdeen trading and oil exploration, week preserved pieces of history, kept in good viewing condition, a good place for visitors on sightseeing and exploratory training.

I haven’t been here since I was a kid. Excellent displays presented very well in a fantastic building. Very informative and paints a great picture of Aberdeen’s fascinating fishing and oil industry past. What a way to spend a few hours. I especially loved the gigantic Murchison platform which fills several floors of the building, the working lighthouse mechanism and the models of boats. The view across the harbour is phenomenal!!

Came here yesterday with my wife, daughter and some of her friends. Was really peaceful and the kids loved looking at all the flowers, the big frog and spike the cactus who had a wee blether with them and they were singing songs. Such a lovely place to come for a variety of different reasons ☺️

Beautiful indoor gardens – perfect all year round. A stunning collection of tropical, arid, and exotic plants in a peaceful glasshouse setting. Well-maintained, with themed areas like the cactus house and Japanese garden. Great place to relax, take photos, or explore with family. Free entry and located within Duthie Park – a true gem in Aberdeen.

This stunning winter garden is located inside Duthie Park. An assortment of glasshouses display superb botanical examples from a diverse range of environments, from arid to tropical, and most continents. Plants are of the most pristine quality and housed in immaculate conditions. Excellent place and well worth a visit. Highly recommended. 👍👍👍

Cool place especially for those who are more interested in plants and stuff. The kind of 'did you know' plates were fun! The only thing i can have a little but is that not all of the plants are taken care of the way they should be

A must visit place if you like conservatories and flora fauna varieties. Very well kept and maintained place with great number of plant species. I was amazed to see the quality of the plants in a cold climate like Scotland has. Beautiful flowers and some really oddball plants and trees. Someone has seriously put aome good thought into it and the staff seems to maintain it well too. No entry fee, but it’s run on donations. Takes about an hour to get through it. Will surely visit again!

I love the botanical gardens in Aberdeen - one of my favourite places to visit! I would really recommend to anyone who is here - even for a few days. To top it off, it's also completely free and family-friendly. Seriously, one of my favourite botanical garden in Scotland. The cacti area is a must see - it always amazes guests. The adjacent cafe is also quite cute and has good sweets/dessert. I think it would make a great place for a first date!

Wow. What an amazing winter wonderland. Sharing with you all some amazing pics which I took yesterday....

What an amazing castle! Definitely worth the visit. The views are stunning and a great day out. You can walk on opposite hills and get great views of the castle and surrounding monuments. There are a lot of steps to get to the castle, but there are rails and enough passing places when busy. There are no dustbins in the castle, so you need to take your goodies back with you. I would recommend taking some food with, as the gardens are so peaceful, its a great place to have a picnic and enjoy the peace. One of my top 10 castles in Scotland!

This is a must see Castle if your in the area. Well maintained by the staff that is friendly and informative. Be mindful that if your mobility is limited that there are several areas of stairs and steps that are irregular and steep. There are also some cobble stone walk ways that might be difficult for some. Loved our visit here and the views are spectacular.

This place is beautiful. I did not go inside as had other prior commitments. If you go give yourself several hours to explore as wonderful trails on cliffs and several stairs to get to castle. A must see if in Scotland!!

Dunnottar Castle is honestly one of the most breathtaking places in Scotland. Perched high on the cliffs above the North Sea, it feels like stepping straight into history. The ruins are full of atmosphere, and the views from every angle are just stunning. The walk down and back up can be a bit steep, but totally worth it for the experience. It’s usually peaceful early in the morning, and watching the waves crash below the castle walls is something you’ll never forget. A must-visit near Stonehaven!

An impressive place. Unfortunately, in winter the castle is only open from 10:00 to 15:00. But even from the outside the surrounding landscapes and the castle itself look fantastic. There is a waterfall and caves nearby. On the coast, if you are lucky you can see seals. Although we were not lucky. I recommend taking the coastal path to the nearest town Stonehaven. You will get an unforgettable experience.

Wonderful castle ruins overlooking the sea! The walk down to the castle is easy however there are quite a few stairs leading up to the entrance. Ticketing was easy and clear directions on the route you should take to see everything. We also hiked along the beach and took a small trail which wrapped back around to the castle. Lovely shots along the way.

Very well kept castle and quite a lot to see and on a large site. A lot bigger than expected with lots to read and some great history and story’s to catch up on. Could be a bit exposed on a wet day. Toilets on site and well worth the £13 entrance fee. Well worth a visit.

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.

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.

Great to visit. Never knew about the declaration. Very interesting exhibition. Staff are lovely very helpful. We needed to use the access lift no problem at all. The graveyard is good to walk through gives you a sense of history of the families which lived there. Definitely worth a visit.

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.

On my way to visit the Balmoral Castle, I was recommended to see this place for tasting. As you recognise, this place has got “royal” title which is quite rare among the distilleries. Once I stepped in, the staff was amazing and very helpful. I ve also got nice tricks for tasting a scotch and my point of view to whiskey is totally positively changed. I know what I am not supposed to do while drinking scotch anymore ☺️ Thanks everyone there

Visiting Royal Lochnagar Distillery was an absolute highlight of our trip. The distillery is charming, beautifully located, and rich in history. The tour was very well organized, with clear explanations of the whisky-making process and a welcoming atmosphere throughout. We especially appreciated how everything was presented with such detail and passion, which made the experience both educational and enjoyable. Stuart, our guide, was excellent and added to the overall quality of the visit. A must-see for anyone interested in Scotch whisky and Scottish heritage!

Hung out with Stuart (guide) here for an afternoon. Wonderfully self-deprecating humor, he had. Lovely walk from the castle nearby and you get 15% off if you show your castle ticket. Incredibly mild, but still complex whiskies. Great old distillery with lots of history, exposed stone and wood. I think I’ll have another.

Phenomenal experience learning about whiskey and sampled excellent batches! If you love whiskey I highly recommend. Our guide Marie was fantastic!

Very nice small batch distillery that offers a nice tour and tastings experience. Bar and restaurant on site. Staff is informative and very friendly.

It was great experience, small distillery, really cozy and visit is highly personalized. We made the tour with Dave, wonderful guy

Our distillery tour guide, Annie, was fantastic and extremely knowledgeable. Nice but small gift shop, free parking, clean bathrooms, and we enjoyed trying their products in their tasting room.

Bought an interior tour ticket way in advance which means you get priority parking at the castle too which was really handy- was able to leave things in the car (jacket, umbrella etc) and picked them up in the afternoon when needed. Arrived in advance and was let in for an early start. Overall such a calm, incredibly beautiful estate with flowers, lawns, a river, outdoor buildings and enjoyed the interior tour too. Albert‘s pyramid / cairn is a separate walk outside the grounds which I hadn‘t realised. Great cafe next to the castle.

Such a wonderful experience to walk around the grounds and view the Castle. It was so beautiful. The Restaurant was amazing with excellent quality food. The Shop was beautifully stocked and the displays where awesome. Just a fantastic experience ✨️ Thank You

I enjoyed my visit and it was very interesting to see all the new planting taking place, especially the trees and maze. You do need to go when the weather is fine because there would be few places to shelter in the rain. I would recommend asking for an audible guide. This wasn't offered when I purchased my ticket and I believe it would have made my experience more interesting.

One of the best places you can visit in Scotland. It is still used by his majesty the King and his family but as you might guess visitors are not allowed to get inside the castle. Only one room is included for visitors which is “ball room” that you can find many beautiful details carved and painted inside. Gardens are amazing. Especially the river walk trail is calming and relaxing with the sweet sound of river Dee. If you are interested in distillery tours keep your Balmoral Castle ticket so that you can get %15 discount on Royal Lochnagar Distillery which is located nearby.

I have a special attachment to this castle since my grandmother and grandfather worked and met. I brought my grandson here to show him. The grounds are large, and the gardens are well maintained. We were only allowed into the ballroom, but that was impressive. There is a restaurant where you can have tea or lunch. I was surprised on how good the food was and how reasonable the price was.

Very quiet and tranquil place to visit. The grounds are extremely well presented and amazing views. Only 1 room which was a hall you visit which had an interesting display for the history of the castle. There are nice walks around the castle and on site cafe. It's a long drive to get there but great day out.

A wonderful experience at Balmoral Castle—worth the visit even without the full tour! Our visit to Balmoral Castle was memorable, even though the full interior tour was already sold out—which, we later learned, is common as those tickets often sell out months in advance. If you’re hoping for the full experience, definitely book well ahead. That said, the general access ticket still offers a great visit. We purchased ours in advance and had no issues. With this ticket, you can explore the beautifully maintained gardens, the expansive grounds, and the only room inside the castle open to the public—the grand ballroom. The ballroom alone is worth the visit. It’s the only part of the residence available for viewing, but it’s rich with royal memorabilia, including family portraits, historic artifacts, and displays highlighting the connection between Balmoral and the British Royal Family. It gives you a glimpse into the private life of the estate. The grounds and gardens are peaceful and impressive, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and woodlands. There are walking trails you can take around the estate, and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable, happy to answer questions and offer background on the property. The overall setting is magnificent—Balmoral is nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, and the combination of royal history and natural beauty makes it a special stop. Even without the full tour, it’s a rewarding experience. Just being on the estate gives you a sense of the tranquility and grandeur the royal family must enjoy here.

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.

Lovely Castle with such a rich history. So great to see it in such good condition and still in the same family. We went on a guided tour and the host was very informative with a few quirky tales.

Very good tour, included in the price. Lovely restaurant where you can get a reasonably priced lunch with a varied menu. Extensive gardens. Easily spend half a day or more here in good weather

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!

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!

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.

We were very fortunate to have arrived just in time for the 11am free tour. Our guide Kyle was very friendly and knowledgeable. We also had the opportunity to climb the tallest tower still standing (25 metres). The tour could have been slightly shorter but it still interactive and informative.

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

Amazing experience,great exhibits,tons of info and superb boat

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.

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.

Amazing history, knowledgeable staff and the grounds were stunning. The town is particularly lovely and picturesque too. Various activities for kids to keep them amused, we would definitely recommend a visit.

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.

Beautiful grounds and Palace. Didn’t go inside as we have a dog but walked around the grounds. A few peacocks roam around too, and is always exciting when their tails flare out. But the scones were the highlight. If they don’t have at the cart, visit the canteen downstairs, they have a few options. With homemade jam, it was one of the best scones, if not best, I’ve had in my life.

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.

Very disappointed to read that this distillery is closed to visitors for the whole of 2025. It also seems (from a quick internet search) that they have not opened since Covid ! Brown signs for tourists are still displayed. Surely these should be taken down if they do not intend re-opening to the public.

A wonderful distillery. Obvious that lots of investment has taken place to enhance the visit experience whilst maintaining the charm. Excellent tour and shop a must see if your in this part of Scotland We've been lots of times and will continue to visit, it's such a fab place.

Without a doubt one of the best Distillery tours in Scotland. Angie our guide was not only very knowledgeable shone through, adding an extra level to the tour, that you simply do not get elsewhere. Visiting the barrel store room and being able to literally smell the Angel's share was a great treat.

Had a very informative and interesting tour in the smallest whisky destillery in Scotland. Can definitely highly recommend this place, very well trained and lovely staff to show us around and patiently explain every step in the process of whisky making, which, compared to bigger and more commercial places, are still visible.

Fantastic tour, great staff and guides with awesome whisky and the best cream liqueur around! Just visited for the second time, our guide Ian was fantastic and the Signature Whiskies are a must from the tasting bar!

To get here you will encounter some very narrow streets and it might seem a road to nowhere...but keep going, it is right around the corner. Scotland's only Single Malt Distillery that works the old fashioned way. The tour was very informative and our guide a true bard, he told the stories around this distillery with so much passion and eloquence, it was a joy to listen. And the tasting wasn't shabby either 😁. It is more than worth your time.

The personalized tour, the tasting of multiple products, and the surrounding area of this distillery all make it a must-see for anyone looking for an authentic Scottish distillery experience. Highly recommended!

Very interesting museum. Great collection of weapons, uniforms and art around the legendary Black Watch regiment. Highly recommend it for military history fans.

I loved the castle and museum that tells the story of the Blacks watch of Scotland The Black Watch is a famous Scottish infantry unit with a history dating back to 1725, first formed as independent companies to police the Highlands after the Jacobite rebellion. It became the Black Watch, 3rd Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland, after the 2006 amalgamation of Scottish regiments into the Royal Regiment of Scotland. Known for its distinctive dark-colored tartan, the regiment has served in numerous conflicts, including the American Revolutionary War, World War I, and World War II.... if your into military or Scottish history this is for you

The museum does an incredible job of commemorating an important part of British history. I cant recommend a guided tour enough.. (wish I could remember the name Helen?) who was very friendly, knowledgeable and engaging. The Bistro also served great food and had very attentive staff. Overall a great experience.

Learned a lot about the Royal Regiment history and very visual in presentation. Allocated about 90 mins for the visit and be prepared to read a lot of placards. Takes focus to apperciate and learn at this Museum.

Excellent museum dedicated to the history of this famous highland regiment. Very well laid out leading through its formation, the many battles the Black Watch took part in to their role today. Great tea room too!

Very interesting. What a rich and ancient history! The staff are simply wonderful. So helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. Loved it.

Awesome museum in a beautiful castle and an awesome staff also, completing with little stories and explanations, loved it. A very fantastic and moving travel through the history of the regiment, its emblems, its wars and its soldiers. Would definitely come again in a few years.

Gorgeous walk, enthralling experience watching salmon. Could've spent hours here.

It's an interesting feature to allow salmon up past the dam, but they only come up once a year, round about October so don't expect to see anything any other time. There are explanation boards at the bottom of the ladder and a walkway up the side with a bridge over it to get a full view.

Every time we have a holiday in Pitlochry, we always visit the Fish Ladder, it's brilliant with or without seeing the salmon. It's amazing when the dam is in flood. The views are wonderful & you can get some fabulous photos. Looking forward to visiting the Pitlochry Fish Ladder next year

Great walk alongside the river and over the dam. Fantastic views. Lovely town to walk through with plenty of refreshment stops. Easily accessible by car or train.

Lovely scenery beautiful place and very interesting watching the salmon go up the ladder

An Ingeneous set of pools designed that the salmon will swim up round the side of the Pitlochry dam , they swim through pipes in the bottom of the pools so they will unlikely be spotted jumping , a display at the bottom of the slope illustrates the lifestyle of the Atlantic salmon and points out the various stages of its life cycle

I really enjoy these types of places, so I can't complain, but may be a bit boring for others. Didn't see any salmon out of the water as the "ladder" has been designed so the swim underneath the surface. There is a live cam feed at the bottom of the river embankment, which was cool to see them actually going through. Free to visit so definitely worth a neb.

Stunning views to just look out at and take a moment to appreciate our beautiful country 🥰 we managed to get my dad up In his wheelchair and he wanted to stand and take the view in 💙 we arrived just as the shop/cafe closed so didn’t get into have a wee look. You have to pay for parking here as well.

Excellent views from the viewpoint. The staff at the visitor centre were very pleasant and helpful. We had a lovely lunch at the cafe. The good weather allowed us to use the outside tables which we enjoyed very much in the early Autumn sunshine.👍

The Views Alone makes this Beautiful place 😍 a Must Visit.... Easy parking, very Reasonable price, pre pay online, and from the Car park only a very short walk to one of the Finest Views in Scotland..... Take a few Minutes, and let it sink in..... the Views down Loch Tummel and Schiehallion are Breathtaking.... There is a Ramp for Wheelchair ♿️ Access, and if you happen to visit on a Glorious Autumn 🍁🍁🍂🍂🔥🔥you'll be lost for Words..... There is a Small visitor centre, and Coffee ☕️ Shop, with a good range of Hot Drinks and Homebaking.... Enjoy 😉it's a Fabulous Location 👌

What a view! Fantastic. The café is also worth a visit. Decent cakes and a nice cup of coffee. Staff very friendly and helpful. Dog friendly too. So you can eat in and not have to dodge the wasps 🤣 Highly recommended 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

Beautiful view point, it is a must see place if you round this area. Easy walk from the carpark. Only a few minutes it takes. Nice coffee to grab something to eat or drink.

Queen’s View is definitely worth visiting! The views of Loch Tummel are absolutely stunning, and it’s an easy, short walk to the viewpoint. When we visited, it wasn’t crowded. There’s a lovely small café and gift shop nearby—just remember to pay for parking.

Nice cafe and lovely staff. Real shame about the £3 car parking charge. There is no real warning about payment untill you enter the car park and the camera captures your reg immediately so you can't turn around.

🚢 My Visit to The Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia was an unforgettable experience that offered a personal glimpse into the life of the British Royal Family at sea. Moored at Ocean Terminal in Leith, Edinburgh, this magnificent ship served the royal family for over 40 years (1954–1997), sailing over a million nautical miles on royal tours and state visits. Walking through the beautifully preserved State Apartments, Royal Bedrooms, Crew Quarters, and Engine Room, I was amazed by the ship’s elegant design and attention to detail. The audio tour provided fascinating stories about royal voyages and daily life aboard the yacht. Visitor Tips: Book tickets online to avoid queues. Allow around 1.5–2 hours to explore comfortably. Don’t miss the Royal Deck Tea Room for a relaxing break with views over the harbor. How to Reach: Easily accessible by bus or tram from Edinburgh city centre to Ocean Terminal Mall. Parking is also available at the terminal. Overall, the Royal Yacht Britannia is a must-visit — a floating palace that perfectly combines royal history, naval heritage, and timeless elegance.

A fascinating and fun visit! We had such a great time exploring The Royal Yacht Britannia! It’s beautifully preserved and full of interesting stories about the royal family and life at sea. The self-guided tour is super easy to follow and gives you a real sense of what it was like on board from the elegant state rooms to the crew’s quarters below deck. Everything is so well presented, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. The onboard café is also lovely, with great views over the water. Whether you’re into history, ships, or just something unique to do in Edinburgh, this place is definitely worth a visit. We left really impressed and with huge smiles!

This was the highlight of my trip to Edinburgh! The self-guided tour is very interesting & well organized. It felt like a trip into the past. The ship is maintained in great shape & with lots of originals still displayed! Highly Recommend!

Very easy to get to. Free parking at the Ocean Terminal Car Park with very clear signage when you arrive as to how to access the Royal Yacht Britannia Experience. Tickets are worthwhile purchasing online in advance but it is easy enough to also buy on arrival. The exhibitions were very well put together and really display the magnificent Britannia at its best. An extremely interesting and enjoyable visit. Well worthwhile adding to your list of things to see when visiting Scotland!

I visited on Oct 7. As a fan of the Royal Family from across the pond, the Royal Yacht was a must-see on my trip list. The staff were very kind and friendly, and the self-guided tour with a free audioguide was great and easy to follow. The Royal Yacht is incredibly well preserved, and it was like walking through a time capsule; from the Queen’s room, through the Crew’s quarters and the engine room, the history held within these walls is magnificent. My only disappointment was that, due to a false alarm, we couldn't have tea in the Royal Deck Tearoom because it had closed early. But I suppose that's a good excuse to return someday!

It was a beautiful sight, you get audio tourist guides and also arrows directing you on where next which makes it interesting. If you are interested in history and things that happened in the past, it a place to visit. The view is stunning and the dessert sold on the yacht to die for.

Well organized. The self guided audio tour runs smoothly and each part is not too long. We were happy we did it! Nice trip from the city center to spend some time on the water of Leith. Taking the city bus was very easy. The view, food and drinks were amazing at the tea room. Worth the money.

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.

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!

An easy hiking trail with nothing special about it. From the top, you get views of the city that are nothing to write home about either. If you're short on time, in my opinion, you can skip this visit.

A fairly easy hike with stunning views across Edinburgh. When it is wet it can be incredibly slippy when climbing up but if you take care it is a really enjoyable walk.

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.

Absolutely loved Edinburgh! So much to see & do within a short distance. Stayed very centrally with fab views - sea to the left & castle to the right. Bus tours are great way of seeing the city & staff very friendly. Definitely visit again as many things go didn't get a chance to do.

Walking along the Royal Mile in Edinburgh was one of the most memorable experiences of our trip, because it felt like the very heart and soul of the city. Stretching from Edinburgh Castle at the top to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom, this historic street is packed with history, character, and energy at every step. The cobblestone streets, the narrow closes, and the centuries-old architecture give you the feeling that you are walking through living history, yet at the same time the street feels vibrant and modern with shops, restaurants, and street performers bringing it to life

Everything in the city is walking distance. Absolutely worth a visit plenty to see. The surgeons and national museum are so large 2 and 3 hours respectively. The castle is beautiful and the weather was decent for November

Edinburgh is such a lovely place. I’m back here for the second time, and it truly feels like my peaceful city — my lovely city. I don’t even have the words to describe how much I love it. It feels like home, like family. Every time I’m here, I feel comfortable and warm. The people are all so friendly. Oh my God, what a beautiful city! ❤️

Wonderful experience to see the town. A long walkway with lots of sights. Souvenirs shops everywhere for you to pick up some cashmere, or woolly scarf. Lots of restaurants along the route which can get busy at times so might need to pre-book for dinner. Entertainers scattered along the path playing bagpipes or dressed up for photos. Great experience and you should definitely see it at least once.

Walking along the Royal Mile was an amazing experience that felt like stepping back in time. The cobbled streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere created a perfect blend of culture and charm. I enjoyed exploring the many shops, cafés, and traditional pubs that lined the street, each adding its own character. I also loved discovering landmarks along the way, from St. Giles’ Cathedral to the various closes and courtyards that revealed hidden gems of Edinburgh’s past. The Royal Mile was vibrant, full of life, and rich in history, making it one of the highlights of my visit.

The Royal Mile is arguably the most talked-about destination in Edinburgh. It’s a beautiful stretch of street that connects to Edinburgh Castle. Depending on the season, the area can get quite crowded. From cobblestone streets to historic buildings, it feels like you’re walking back in time. There are also many street performers and souvenir shops that could easily fill a whole day. While it’s beautiful, it’s definitely not for those who hate crowds. Compared to some heavily touristy destinations, it’s still manageable. Overall, I highly recommend adding the Royal Mile to your bucket list. You should also visit some of the other places within the mile, such as Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles Cathedral, and Tron Kirk.

devinately recomended. I took the Lost Close included tour. The Lost Close is not sooo much to see, but very interesting History and story about the finding of it. Becca (the plague doctor) I think was her Name was ver informative and entertaining at the same time. if you're interested in the history of Edinburgh you won't be disapointed

Wow! What an awesome experience! We booked this after looking for some things to do after dinner and are so glad we did! The entire experience was great- very informative, entertaining, and historical. We learned so much from our tour guide, Amber (aka Mary Kings daughter), and got to see some amazing things. Highly recommend!!

Very interesting visit. Great insight on the past in Edinburgh. It is a guided tour. Our guide was Lorraine and she did a great. The tour is one hour tour. I went with my son almost 13 years old and it was not too scary. Definitely, a must visit in Edinburgh.

Great tour! Loved that the guide dresses up as someone from the time period and stays in character too. Our guide Daisy was so charismatic and passionate. Her enunciation was a 10/10 too. If you're thinking of buying the plague doctor mask keychain at the gift shop, note that it doesn’t actually come with the key ring, you only get the charm itself!

My second time doing The Real Mary Kings Close tour and I loved it even more this time. Such a highlight this tour, one of the best things to do in Edinburgh. Our tour guide Anthony was brilliant, he made the tour. I will be back for another tour when I come back to Edinburgh I love this place so much.

This is definitely a must do in Edinburgh! Our tour guide was Marcus, and he did a fabulous job! He was very informative and was also hilarious, which made the experience very fun and interesting. The shop is also adorable and a lot of interesting items to choose from. Highly would recommend!

First we were sad not to be able to take pictures downstairs (upstairs and in the shop it's allowed) but you don't have any time to be honest. Everything was exciting and the told history about Edinburgh and those buildings was fascinating! Anthony was the best tour guide we could imagine! His voice was perfectly loud, clear and well understandable! He gave clear instructions and was always kind and also very sweet at the end! His jokes were actually great and we had a lot to laugh between the facts and the "kind of dark" story about Mary King.

This museum is amazing and very huge with many sections ranging from natural history, science and technology, Scottish history, and interactive activities. You can easily spend an entire day in here. Locker services are provided for storage starting from 3 GBP. There is a balcony cafe to grab quick food. The toilets are clean and easily accessible. Moreover, the free admission makes it totally worth. A must visit, when in Edinburgh.

Really, one of the best museums i ever been in my life. There are so many thing to see inside. It is soooo big and i loved the architecture of the building. Your kids will love it too. And its completely free. I love Scotland cause they take care of their people and their visitors also.

🏛️ My Visit to the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh My visit to the National Museum of Scotland was a truly fascinating experience that combined history, science, culture, and innovation under one roof. Opened in 1998 (and incorporating the older Royal Museum building), it is one of the UK’s finest museums, showcasing everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts and Scottish history to space exploration and technology exhibits. The architecture is stunning — a beautiful blend of Victorian design and modern glass structures. Highlights included Dolly the sheep (the first cloned mammal), the Natural World galleries, and the interactive science zones, which were engaging for visitors of all ages. Visitor Tips: Entry is free, and you can easily spend 2–3 hours exploring. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Edinburgh. The museum café and gift shop are also worth visiting. How to Reach: Located on Chambers Street, it’s just a short walk from Royal Mile and Edinburgh Waverley Station, well connected by local buses and trams. Overall, the National Museum of Scotland is a must-visit — educational, inspiring, and beautifully curated, making it one of the highlights of any trip to Edinburgh.

Visiting the National Museum of Scotland gave me a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history. Seeing firsthand how carefully history is preserved was truly captivating. What intrigued me most was how the museum seamlessly transitions from exhibits about medieval times, complete with authentic artefacts, to galleries showcasing remarkable advancements in technology. I dare say it beautifully captures the best of both worlds within a single space. For any tourist, places like this truly make a difference in how much you enjoy your stay in a new country. I definitely recommend visiting this place 100%!

The Scottish National Museum boasts an incredibly diverse collection, spanning human technology, space exploration, clothing materials and design, and ancient civilizations etc. What impressed me the most was the animal gallery. It was breathtaking to see hundreds of different animal specimens displayed together—from Cretaceous dinosaur fossils and towering African elephants to fierce great white sharks, various running beasts, and adorable pandas. The most magical part was their eyes—all so vivid and lifelike, making the exhibits feel incredibly real and immersive. It was a truly fantastic visit that both the children and I thoroughly enjoyed.

National Museum of Scotland – Edinburgh: A fantastic museum with diverse exhibits ranging from Scottish history to science and natural history. The building itself is beautiful, and it’s very family-friendly. Free entry makes it even better. Can get crowded during peak times.

Me and my mate visited here in late August and had an enjoyable time, yet a handful of things left me with a slight bittersweet experience. The Pros ✅ - The exhibitions and displays are arranged in a very eye catching and awe inspiring way 🤩. It really gives you that feeling of wonder and wanting to learn and understand more🤓. The height of the building really gives these spaces an advantage, allowing visitors to see the scope of some larger pieces. - While there are quieter areas, with simple displays and plaques, there are also plenty of interactive displays as well. This makes it a really engaging place for everyone, including families with younger children. - Obviously the free entry is fantastic, especially for a museum with such scope 🤑. The Cons ❌ - While looking through a section of which I have a level of expertise, I found some information to be inaccurate. While I'm certain they wouldn't blatantly lie, it makes me wonder how much of their information is 100% factual 😶. - The plaques are interesting yet I found that many were very to the point with surface-level information 🥲. As someone who works in the museum industry I believe it's not just important to explain one piece, but to give the wider context and be transparent about what we do and don't know. This inspires someone to ask questions, think about what they're learning and ask why it matters today 👏👏👏. It encourages a different perspective, so people don't just learn history, but learn from history. I found most of the museum told me things but didn't make me think. - It was cool to go up to the rooftop terrace, but the elevator was quite frustrating. It would already get quite full on the bottom couple of floors so those waiting on the four floors in-between them and the roof had to hope that there was enough room for them to squish in. Either way the high volume of people meant the elevator was called to almost each floor... Resulting in a long ride with a lack of personal space 😅😆. Overall me and my friend still had a nice time here. If anyone wanted a fun day out I'd recommend this place. If anyone had a more specific interest or wanted some more detailed information, I'd recommend somewhere else 😁.

Incredible place to spend the day exploring! But tickets in advance and bring a picnic. There’s a shop to buy some food but it gets quite busy. Highly recommend visiting the castle, it’s amazing to explore and the views of the city are stunning.

Wanted to make this a quick visit and then we ended up spending 3 hours here in this magnificent Castle. Amazing views of the city and lots of history and even watched the 1 o’clock gun go off. Highly recommended making this a stop on your list. Make sure to get tickets in advance because it does get busy and if you want to watch the gun go off you better find a spot around 12:30.

We visited this stunning castle on the last day of our Edinburgh and Scottish Highlands tour. The castle is a UNESCO site and remains a symbol of strength and power in the struggle of Scotland's independence. Very well maintained, amazed by the majestic look and quite liked the Royal Palace, Top view, Chapel, Scottish National War Museum and the Banquet Hall. There is facilities of toilets, restaurants and souvenir shops. Staffs were quite helpful and their ticket office does provide audio guide which was very helpful. Booking in advance for the tickets are recommend.

We took the train from England to visit this amazing Castle! Do not be fooled by the recommended time estimates that you see online- plan for a full day unless you intend to speed through without taking the time to read the placards and observe the details! There is a lot to do and see during your visit! Try to get there before 1:00 p.m. for the canon firing.

Absolutely worth a visit if you are in the area. Parking is non-existent so expect to walk several blocks from wherever you find. But they have a lot of nice shops all down from the military museum and the castle. More than easy enough to spend half a day here but very cool to see overall.

Despite a lot of dismantling activity to remove the stands that were used for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August, it was a great few hours at the castle. The structures are imposing and just exude history at every turn. Even on a regular weekday, it gets very crowded, so buying tickets in advance is a good idea.

A castle that I definitely recommend visiting. We bought tickets before entering, but since there are time slots, it might be nice to buy them earlier. The gentlemen at the entrance were very helpful and it was raining, they let us in early without any problems. We walked around the grounds for two hours, there is a lot to see.

Glenturret was started in 1763 and is the oldest continuously operating whisky distillery in Scotland. The tour was excellent. John was our tour guide and was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and entertaining. For a whisky aficionado, this was a great experience. The tasting was excellent. You can buy bottles in the shop for a reasonable price for their Triple Wood expression. If you have a spare £80,000.00, you can buy one of their special bottles in a specially designed bottle. Definitely worth the time if you like whisky.

Beautiful setting with characterful whisky, but a mixed experience overall. The distillery is tucked into beautiful woodland by a river, with classic whitewashed architecture that gives it real charm. Parking was convenient off-season, with EV charging spots on site, though we couldn’t get them working. The tour itself was very enjoyable. The site has real heritage and uniqueness, and our guide John made it a standout experience: knowledgeable, welcoming, friendly, and passionate. We tasted several whiskies, and the Triple Wood and 14 Year Old Peat Smoked were personal highlights, balanced, rich, and elegant drams. Unfortunately, the customer service in the shop and bar didn’t match the rest. The staff we encountered seemed uninterested and transactional, which was disappointing. A simple request for a driver bottle to take away a paid tasting dram (as I was driving) felt like an inconvenience. The dram was eventually poured into the bottle without a funnel, spilling some in the process, and not a word of apology or any gesture of goodwill, even though we were the last customers there. Being charged £16 for a standard 25ml dram, of the regular 14 Year Old Peated, just before purchasing the £150 bottle, also felt excessive and off-putting. Many distilleries would show a more welcoming and commercial approach in that situation, encouraging return visits and loyalty. In short: absolutely worth visiting for the setting, the whisky, and the guided tour with John, but the customer service outside of that experience needs improvement to match the expected Lalique experience.

Great tour and experience. Took the bus to the road to the distillery and walked up a fresh green forest road for 0.5km to reach this relaxing location that enhanced the experience. Getting the opportunity to see, smell, and be educated about the process has given me so much appreciation of the process and what draws people to whiskey. John our guide was passionate and knowledgeable about everything and made this a very personalized experience.

We were on the basic distillery tour with Ewan for £20/person. He was thorough in his explanation of the process and there wasn’t a question he couldn’t answer! You’ll also get the privilege of meeting 2 cats; Glen & Turret. They also cater for drivers, enabling you to buy a ‘designated driver’ ticket so you can take your sample whisky home, rather than tasting on the tour. Worth a visit.

Nice tour I had of the distillery. Great whiskey tasting !! They have 2 cats - Glen and turret !! Location is beautiful !

DAN … I promised I would give you my opinion! …You were right, it’s really a very very good whisky, by the way one of the best peated I’ve ever tasted! Release 2025 thanks again for your advising

Wonderful experience and lovely staff— Especially John who lead us on the tour, Answered all of our questions and was a funny, kind chap.

We were staying in nearby Linlithgow so took the bus. Easy, short trip. Blackness is incredible. What an amazing castle ruin to explore. And it has the bonus of providing a wonderful view of the Forth bridges. We explored every space and would highly recommend a visit.

Awesome castle. Loved it. Parking was in short supply but you can park in the village and walk to the castle pretty easily. This is one of the better preserved castles you can visit. It's very easy to imagine living here.

Blackness Castle is one of Scotland’s most atmospheric fortresses — a dramatic, sea-washed stronghold that looks like it’s floating on the Firth of Forth. Often called “the ship that never sailed” because of its long, narrow shape and pointed towers, it’s easy to see why it’s become such a favourite for film fans (including Outlander). We explored the ramparts and courtyards, climbed the towers for sweeping coastal views, and wandered along the old pier that stretches into the water. The mix of sea air, gulls, and centuries-old stone gives it an unforgettable mood — part fortress, part film set, part time capsule. The castle is well-preserved and full of nooks to explore, with information boards that bring its history to life. It’s also a brilliant spot for photography, especially at sunset when the light hits the water and walls just right. If you love castles with character, Blackness Castle is one of the most striking and memorable in Scotland.

I will say that I was disappointed to find the castle closed on the day we were passing through. I can certainly say that this castle and surroundings are a must visit so close to the airport. Parking will likely be a problem depending when you visit, but there are some great spots down by the water - good luck hahaha. The walk up to the castle along the walkway is amazing - great view. The castle and grounds are in great shape and feel free to walk around the area and along the beach for some other great views. The cost of entry is very reasonable and there is a lot to go through. Try to arrange your visit when open to get the most out of the visit. Thanks.

Went there with the Rabbies outlander tour. The guide explained the scenes and the areas where they were filmed in the castle. Later on I even recognized the place when I was watching the movie Mary the queen of Scots on Netflix. Very interesting experience!

From afar, it looks almost like a battleship going to war, it is one of the most unusual castles, I have seen.Plenty of parking, good rates to see, gift shop, and the castle, with a outer viewing platform so you can get a good picture of this awesome castle. You can walk to most the platforms and up most of the towers.

Visiting this castle during a sunny day is highly recommended for an enjoyable experience. The architecture and history are truly captivating, offering a unique perspective. It presents excellent value for the investment of both time and resources. If you're planning a trip, this destination should be prioritized. You will find it to be a memorable addition to your travel itinerary.

As a fan of palaces and castles of all kinds, I was impressed. The palace is still undergoing renovation work, but definitely a place worth visiting. Beautiful view of the lake from the top.

A beautiful location steeped in history, the castle is remarkable and the loch is simply stunning especially in early spring. Had the pleasure of being able to walk most of the way around and found the trail pleasant and the locals friendly and accommodating. Would have loved ore time here, maybe another time if I'm up this way I will as I would certainly visit again. Nice location with plenty of amenities nearby.

Went to see the housing and the experience was brilliant, loads to do and everyone was exceptional! Getting to wander around the castle was great and wish I had enough time to explore but there was far to much to do and not enough of the day to do it. Would go again 10/10

We were really looking forward to seeing the palace and we were not disappointed. What incredible architecture and a lesson in history. Staff were friendly and welcoming. We loved exploring the many spaces and levels. A must visit location in our opinion.

Great ruin that the are trying to maintain. They have alot of info regarding its past. Found it really interesting. Allowed to walk almost all halls and stairs, even allowed up on lookout point

Worth an hour, you can walk to the top of one of the towers and take in the vews and explore all the rooms. There are plaques throughout and the staff are really helpful and friendly.

Lovely place to visit in a great location next to town and a park. Lots to do although there is a bit of construction going on.

Beautiful place, views and reminds bit of Lord of the rings to top of the tower. Need comfy shoes to get to it. Has free parking, nice place to go for a walk around too. Has some wooden sculptures on the way aswell. Bit of a steep walk but has small buss service that takes to the top, cafe near parking. Also available free toilet in the Monument. Welcoming staff.

This monument is certainly a must see in the Stirling area. There is a lot of convenient parking for your visit and a nice cafe and gift shop at the base of the hill beside the parking area. After parking, head up the trail that starts around the right hand side of the building - you don't need to go inside as the tickets for the monument are bought when you get to the top. There are two paths that literally run beside each other and connect around halfway up. The more natural path has some carvings to look at as you go through. Depending on your fitness level, the path to the top may be a bit strenuous - take your time and there are a few rest spots. There is also a great viewing platform and rest area outside of the main tower entrance. There is one bathroom for all patrons in the monument tower, so this can be a bit inconvenient. Use the bathroom down below before heading up hahahaha. Depending on the time and day you go, this visit will likely vary greatly. There is only the original narrow spiral stone staircase to go up and down. Although there are a lot of stairs, you can stop at the different floors with great displays - historical video, display boards, the Wallace Sword, and sculptures. Resting on each floor is also a good way to let the "traffic" pass. You can only hope you don't arrive at the same time as tour buses - ouch. Make your way to the top to get an incredible 360 of the area - including the Battle of Stirling Bridge. A great piece of history, with great relics. Thanks for the amazing visit.

Really pretty! We went there to see the sunrise, but the sun rises on the other side…. Nevertheless, it was really beautiful and a really good walk in the morning. The pathway was closed due to maintenance but you can go through the road, just need to be extra careful.

I really enjoyed my visit to the national Wallace monument it was great to finally see it in person and witness what it would be like to be living in that back in the it would have even mental been in there as a defence lookout against the English and other threats so be aware going here that there are lotsss of steps to take to the top and they are very narrow so it's a tight squeeze when there's two way foot traffic my dad made it to the the top and he has a walking stick so it can be done for those maybe less able and the view from the top is breath taking and definitely worth the climb and there are 3 levels to experience on the way up too the top which can be used as a wee rest stop with some great visual holisory to take in the place is just wow and thinking about all way back in time it's crazy this is a must to take in and if you have time take in Stirling castle too on the same day

A great experience for anyone interested in the history of the Scottish independence movement. Equally worthwhile if you just want to take in the amazing views from the tower. I also really appreciated the range of family ticket options, recognising that not all families are nuclear.

We really enjoyed this monument, as we climbed to the top of the spiral staircase. The designer gave us breathers along the way with The Hall of Arms, The Hall of Monuments and The Royal Chamber. My brother and me had views from the top of this historic landscape all to ourselves. I can’t imagine weirding a sword that length. My brother is 6’4” tall and he shown standing beside the sword. We did take the free van up to the monument with our hens, as why not. Take your hat off before reaching the top, cause the winds will for you if you don’t🤣

Sometimes you just can't get your mind around how something is built that is so massive and in the 1800s. This monument is one of them. The grandeur can only be experienced by climbing the narrow spiral staircases to three tall showrooms (two of which contain the swords of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce), and then to the top outside "crown" 200+ feet on top of a high peak. If you don't like heights, don't bother. But it is a stunning and extremely well put together attraction. We managed it in under an hour because we were in a rush to get to Doune Castle on time. If you have the stamina, do all the flights of stairs to the top.

A steep climb up the hill got us to the Castle. You don't have to walk, there's a carpark by the gate and a shuttle bus service. Buy tickets in advance and save some money. Trying this on my mobile was problematic and I never managed to get it to work. But the nice lady at the Castle sorted it out for me. The good bits, all of the buildings are impressive. The views from the terraces outside even more so. The interiors are spectacular with ornate carvings and wonderful wall decorations. See the restored kitchens and the reconstruction of the interior. It's obvious that a great deal of effort has been made to present a good visitor experience. One of the best bits was a couple of ladies roleplaying different people from history. More of this could be a great thing. Well worth a visit.

There is no way you can come to Stirling and not visit this amazing historical centerpiece. Sitting at the highest point in the area, it will be visible from anywhere in the city. There are lots of paid parking spaces (5 pounds) right at the entrance. As soon as you walk in, the ticket booth is just off to the left. After ticket purchase, I highly suggest the free tour given by their historians - very informative with a nice touch of humor. First one started at 10 am when we visited. As you walk through the grounds and on the high walls, you can take in some great scenery inside and outside the castle. There a lot of things to see and some of the parts of the castle might be missed if you are not paying attention to the map. All the main areas have employees in period dress who freely offer their period stories. Everything is in your own time - I would say a couple of hours will offer you a good visit with the tour. There is a couple of gift shops (one at the entrance and one off the main inner courtyard) and a nice canteen to buy some light snacks. So much history - enjoy.

Absolutely stunning castle. We'll preserve and very good historical information presented clearly. I didn't get the audio tour and I think that was a good choice. Though I'm sure they provide good information. Wasn't so crowded you couldn't see what you wanted as long as you avoided the huge bus tours. Have I mentioned it was beautiful? It truly was. Very memorable.

The best castle in Scotland. Fully restored Tickets are about £20, car park about £4 Go early, or a couple hours before it closes as it fills up fast. There is a couple places to get coffee on the grounds. The graveyard next to the castle is worth a visit as well. Beautiful views over to the Ochill Hills and over the city.

Decided to stop by this Castle just before going to the seal beach which is about 10 min south. Nice little hike up to the castle with breathtaking views from the cliffs and the ocean. The hike does get a little muddy so be careful on the walk up but there is also lots a large rocks and pebbles to help with the terrain. It’s an old empty castle that you can walk in and around. Just follow the path from the car park it does take about 8-10 min of walking to get there.

By far the most interactive and fascinating castle visit I have experienced across the 40 countries I’ve visited. The site is rich in history and offers truly immersive exhibits. Even rushing through, we spent almost 3 hours inside. For a full experience, I recommend reserving 4–5 hours — and trust me, it’s worth every minute. The ticket is not cheap, but it is absolutely worth the visit.

Stirling Castle's carpark more than enough spaces. Very reasonable prices for entry. Here we have close to 1000 years of history, surrounded by stunning scenery. There are interactive learning rooms within the castle. Exploring the whole castle will take some time, and well worth the effort. The scenery from the Castle is amazing, even on this rainy day. Will you be able to spot Sir William Wallace's monument? So get yourself here and enjoy what Stirling castle has to offer, you won't be disappointed.

Excellent visitor centre. We returned to have another go at the Battle Simulator which visitors could take part in a simulation of the historic battle. Unfortunately it is now only used to illustrate the guided tour. Good cafe and gift shop Don't miss the dressing up room. 😎👍👍👍👍

A great place to visit and learn the history of the battle. The tour is highly innovative and very 'hands on' too. Our guide was very knowledgeable and presented a lot of information but kept your interest the whole time.

The exhibition is really good and interesting and the tour guides are extremely knowledgeable proving details about the battle itself and the political climate leading up to the battle and the aftermath. The short videos introducing the characters are pretty funny. The building is nice and modern with an outdoor courtyard for the summer months and an area where you can try on some of the armour and clothing of the time (more for the children, but cool for adults too). The statue of the Bruce outside is of course awesome, as are the views. A really good way to spend some time immersing yourself in a hugely important period in Scottish history.

This is certainly a place where you can feel the history all around you. The visitor center is roughly where Robert the Bruce’s camp would have been located. Inside the visitor center there is a nice gift shop and some interactive informational experiences but we didn’t partake in that, just admiring the monuments outside. The Robert the Bruce monument at the end is very neat and wonderfully sculpted. Stirling Castle is visible in the distance on a nice sunny day. When in the area, do visit this historical place.

Great attraction, loved learning about the battle, told with enthusiasm from our guide throughout, Warwick. The grounds are lovely and peaceful to walk around. A great way to spend a couple of hours if in the area

Such an interesting visitors center and battlefield. There is an interactive room where you can dress up like a knight. A nice cafeteria and bathroom. There are interactive trails and a monument . Plenty of parking and picnic tables

Significant landmark amongst Scottish history and deservedly so , what a legend Robert the Bruce was tactically a very msrt warlord. Nice wander up to his statue and good infoviews over the battlefields etc. Good motorhome parking. Dud nit go into museum itself