national trust places to visit scotland

The 15 Best National Trust for Scotland Places to Explore

• Published on: July 16, 2023

It’s lucky that the National Trust for Scotland looks after some of the most remarkable spots in Scotland more than 8 National Nature Reserves to experience, 300,000 precious objects to discover, 76,000 hectares of land to explore and over 100 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves.

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Discover the top 15 National Trust places in Scotland that are simply a must-visit. From historic castles to stunning landscapes, these destinations offer an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to delve into Scotland’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Whether you’re captivated by majestic architecture or enchanted by breathtaking vistas, these carefully curated locations are sure to leave a lasting impression on your Scottish adventure . Don’t miss out on exploring these remarkable treasures!

Table of Contents

Here are some of my favourite National Trust for Scotland locations and sites across Scotland

1. Glencoe, Highlands

Scotland is a real hiker’s paradise , particularly Glencoe. This is partly thanks to the excellently signposted hiking trails, which are never far from idyllic inns that serve up regional specialities.

Then there’s the diversity of the landscapes, from spectacular peaks to rolling hills and mystical forests.

Glencoe is a remarkable destination, with the locals putting in hardwork to preserve its majestic views, vibrant culture and sustainable economic activities.

No description can re-create the impact of seeing Glencoe for the first time. It has long been one of the most loved places in Scotland .

What is Glencoe famous for? It’s known equally for its awe-inspiring views, it is a place of history, wildlife, adventure, myth and drama. 

The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) has cared for Glencoe since 1935. NTS is the largest member organisation in Scotland.

As a conservation charity, they are supported by more than 300,000 members and are funded largely by donations to protect the things that make Scotland special.

On February 13, 1692, 38 members of the MacDonald clan were murdered by a regiment of soldiers (acting on behalf of the government) after they had welcomed them into their homes.

The tragedy of the Glencoe Massacre still has the power to evoke powerful emotions.

The most recent project of NTS is a replica 17th-century turf house at the Glencoe Visitor Centre.

Here, you can experience Clan MacDonald’s way of life in this unique showcase of traditional building crafts along with a breathtaking mountain backdrop, just outside the visitor centre.

The project was part of the Trust’s five-year, £57 million programme to improve the visitor experience and the condition of the heritage in its care. It’s thanks to the generous supporters and donors from all over the world that NTS has been able to make it possible!

As a conservation charity, NTS rely on the generous support of visitors, members and donors to help to continue important work in protecting Scotland’s rich heritage.

Click here if you would like to take part and become a supporter

2. Inverewe Gardens, North West Highlands, NC500

Inverewe gardens were created by Osgood Mackenzie who purchased the estate of Kernsary with help from his mother in 1862. From then until his death in 1922 he transformed the land into spectacular gardens and woodlands.

His daughter Mairi continued till 1952 when she gifted the gardens to the National Trust for Scotland .

This awesome garden has a wide variety of plants, like rhododendrons, azaleas, trees, and shrubs thanks to the mild climate and sheltered position.

You can enjoy breathtaking views of Loch Ewe and even take a boat trip. There’s also a fun kids’ trail and plenty of wildlife to see.

And don’t forget about the stunning walled garden! It’s definitely worth checking out in any season, but May, June and July are the best.

3. Threave Garden Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway

A grand Scottish Baronial house set in 26 hectares of world-famous gardens including 200 varieties of daffodils. It’s a Special Protection Area for breeding waders and wintering wildfowl.

Home to the Scottish Bat Reserve with two marked bat paths. Also, ospreys have been featured for several years, either by passing through or nesting. The gardens are superb.

There are glasshouses, a sculptural garden, a nature reserve, a walled garden and a secret garden

4. Dollar Glen, Stirlingshire

This glen walk in Scotland is absolutely incredible! It’s hands down one of the most awe-inspiring and breathtaking experiences you’ll ever have.

The beauty of nature surrounds you, with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery at every turn. It truly is a hidden gem and an unforgettable journey through this stunning glen in Scotland!

Located just outside the village of Dollar is a beautiful wooded area that leads up to the Ochil Hills. You’ll find walking trails that take you through this peaceful glen, following two streams called the Burn of Sorrow and the Burn of Care.

These streams meet below Castle Campbell (Historic Scotland), which used to be owned by the Earls of Argyll. Together, they form what is known as Dollar Burn. The walk through the glen is moderate, although in some parts can be strenuous.

5. The Hermitage, Dunkeld, Perthshire

This scenic route will take you through captivating Perthshire forests with magnificent waterfalls, such as the awe-inspiring Black Linn.

The path starts 1.1 miles from Dunkeld and has an attractive 1.5-mile woodland trail, which can be expanded further to an 8-mile journey along the enchanting Hermitage and Fiddler’s Path.

The riverside route then continues to visit the dramatic Rumbling Bridge before a return through more open countryside with attractive views.

Keep an eye on the red squirrels which are protected animals in Scotland, or salmon jumping in the River Tay.

The Hermitage, like the rest of the Big Tree Country woodlands and parks, also have the biggest trees, including spectacular and towering Douglas firs.

A must-visit is Ossian’s Hall; here the River Braan crashes down into deep pools and the hall offers stunning views of the waterfalls of Black Linn.

6. Falkland Palace, Perthshire

Falkland Palace , located in Fife, Scotland, served as a country retreat for the Stuart monarchs. It was used as a hunting lodge where the royal family enjoyed activities such as deer and wild boar hunting.

Mary, Queen of Scot s particularly cherished her time at Falkland Palace and found joy in immersing herself in nature, enjoying the woods and parks surrounding the palace.

Falkland Palace , constructed between 1501 and 1541 under the reigns of James IV and James V, replaced earlier castle and palace structures that originated in the 12th century.

It houses the King’s and Queen’s rooms, which have been carefully restored by the Trust.

These rooms boast period features, reproduction 16th-century furnishings, painted ceilings adorned with intricate designs, and royal arms prominently displayed.

Situated within the premises is the oldest real tennis court in Britain, dating back to 1539.

It’s a historical gem that adds character to the surroundings. Additionally, the garden, meticulously designed and constructed by Percy Cane from 1947 to 1952, features an array of shrubs and trees, showcasing a delightful variety.

For those interested in herbs, there is even a small herb garden to explore and appreciate.

7. Culross Palace and Village, Fife

Culross was used in series 1 and 2 of Outlander and featured as the fictional village of Cranesmuir and also the Jacobite encampment in series 2.

The Royal Burgh of Culross is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and has been used for several filming scenes in the Outlander movie .

Culross played a base for the fictional Cransemuir in season 1 and suddenly became a popular tourist attraction. It’s a pretty village and I would recommend at least half a day to visit  

8. Gladstone’s Land, Edinburgh

Gladstone’s Land is a captivating journey back in time to the opulent life of a wealthy merchant in the seventeenth century.

Impeccably restored in the late 1930s, this magnificent house museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of Edinburgh’s residents in the Old Town over four centuries ago.

Prepare to be transported and fascinated by the rich history and exquisite details that await you at Gladstone’s Land

9. Culloden Battlefield, Inverness

If you’re interested in Scottish history or are a fan of Outlander , a visit to the Culloden Battlefield just outside of Inverness is a must. 

Culloden , the site of the last battle, fought on British soil. It became a place of Victorian pilgrims.

There is a memorial cairn, simple stones marking mass clan graves, the desolate Field of English, the well of the Dead and one of the battle survivors- Old Leanach Cottage with its thatched roof. 

The battlefield also includes a museum highlighting the history of the Jacobite Risings. The visitor centre tells the story in an innovative and interactive way. 

The Jacobite Rising of 1745 was a rebellion led by Prince Charles Edward Stuart to reclaim the British throne for his father, James Francis Edward Stuart.

However, on the sorrowful morning of April 16, 1746, the Jacobites fought their final battle.

It’s a battle that changed Highland culture forever. Whether you know much about the Risings or not, this museum is immersive and full of interesting facts and stories

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10. The Hill House, Helensburgh, Loch Lomond

“It is not an Italian Villa, an English Mansion House, a Swiss Chalet or a Scotch castle. It is a Dwelling House,” said Mackintosh to Blackie family on the completion of their house.

In the stunning location on the top hill in the Helensburgh village overlooking Loch Lomond The Hill House (box house) is one of Charles and Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh’s most famous works.

Commissioned to design a country house by the Glasgow publisher Walter Blackie in 1902, Mackintosh was already well established locally for his many public buildings in Glasgo w

The house gives you a good insight into how the Blackie family lived in the early 1900s. The house was a masterpiece of architecture, but foremost it was the family home of Blacks and their five children.

Since the National Trust for Scotland restored it in the minute detail originally specified by the architect, you can once again marvel at the triumph of light and shadow, of dark wood and elegant friezes and many ‘Arts and Crafts’ features now considered characteristic of Mackintosh.

11. Glenfinnan Monument, Highlands near Fort William

I find myself going back to Glenfinnan countless times, and each visit is as special as the first one. It is one of the most memorable spots in the Highlands .

In 1815, a memorial was erected here at the head of Loch Shiel, near the place where Prince Charles Stuart had landed in 1745 and raised his standard, in honour of the Highlanders’ sacrifice in the Jacobite cause.

From the viewpoint above the visitor centre, the vista down the loch, surrounded by the mountains, is something one never forgets.

The visitor centre exhibition provides an excellent background on the Rising, battles, and aftermath.

12. St Abb’s Head, Berwickshire, Scottish Borders

St Abbs takes the name from Ebba, a sister of King Oswy of Northumbria. She founded a religious community here in the 17th century.

It’s said that when St Cuthbert visited her, he was in the habit of immersing himself in the sea for long periods- not for recreation but as a means of prayer and the seals came and stayed by his side.

You can still bathe and, very likely, you’ll see the seals. The walk from the village to the headland is just a mile and a half but is not to be missed.

The dramatic cliff scenery is the most spectacular of the whole coast. St Abbs reserve is a natural breeding area for seabirds, guillemots, razorbills and sometimes puffins.

13. Brodie Castle, Moray, near Inverness

The rose-coloured Brodie Castle has been the ancestral home of the Brodie Clan for over 400 years, although their family seat has been here since the 12th century.

The castle houses a magnificent collection of furniture, ceramics and artwork, including works by 17th-century Dutch masters and 20th-century Scottish Colourists.

Stunning springtime daffodils in all its glory are all around the ground carpeted with over 100 varieties.

Daffodils are a huge part of the history and heritage of Brodie Castle as Major Ian Brodie, the 24th Brodie of Brodie and clan chieftain, was one of the greatest pioneers in daffodil hybridisation.

14. Malleny Gardens, Balerno, Edinburgh

A hidden little gem of a world of tranquillity as you pass through the beautifully adorned wrought-iron gate. The walled Malleny garden reveals a breathtaking sight – towering 400-year-old yew trees,  named Four Evangelists- carefully shaped and maintained with exquisite precision.

Adding to the charm are Victorian greenhouses and meticulously cultivated rose plantings that transport you to a bygone era.

The captivating beauty of the Walled Garden comes alive with a vibrant burst of colours during the summer and early autumn.

The 17th-century house situated in the garden was built for Sir James Murray of Kilbaberton around 1635. The House has two Georgian reception rooms added in 1823 and are opened by the Friends of Malleny on occasions during the summer.

The best to experience the garden during the summer months, when vibrant blooms and lush greenery are in full bloom, and the rose’s scents are everywhere, but in autumn, the garden is beautiful too. Woodland walks nearby.

15.The Georgian House, Edinburgh

The Georgian House , a fascinating house-museum built in 1796, is an absolute gem located on No 7 Charlotte Square.

It offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the wealthiest residents of the New Town . Step inside and immerse yourself in the grandeur and elegance of this historic masterpiece.

Prepare to be transported back in time and experience firsthand how these privileged individuals lived their lives with the utmost luxury and sophistication

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My name is Kate and I created Scotland Itinerary Planning to give you those life-changing experiences right in the beautiful country I call home.

I’m proud to live in Edinburgh, Scotland , one of the world’s most beautiful capital cities. Living in Edinburgh has provided me a base to explore extensively around this magical little country.

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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour:  The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.

Planning tip:  Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.

Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.

Local tip:  Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland  (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.

Planning tip:  It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of  St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney  with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.

Planning tip:  Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.

Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip:  Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated November 2023

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Embark on memorable adventures

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This Easter, bring along your family and friends to visit the sites that connect you to Scotland’s fantastic history. We can’t wait to welcome you all soon.

Whether you’re looking for a fun holiday day-trip with the family to our majestic castles and cathedrals, solo walks in our spring-flowering gardens, or action-packed events and activities, there is something for everyone this Easter holidays.

Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to some of our sites.

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Explore a vibrant line-up of events for 2024! Get ready for our family Eggsplorer Trails over the Easter weekend at various sites. Don’t miss your chance to meet and learn about Scotland's national animal at Stirling Castle's Unicorn event.

Don’t miss out! To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking tickets online in advance to guarantee entry to our sites. This is essential when planning a visit to some of our busiest sites including Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, Edinburgh Castle, Elcho Castle, Inchmahome Priory, Lochleven Castle, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, Skara Brae, Stirling Castle, and Urquhart Castle. Explore iconic sites and Scotland's fascinating history with our Explorer Pass - a great and easy way to visit many of our properties! The pass is valid for 14 consecutive days. The pass includes entry to the sites mentioned above. Visits must be booked in advance.

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We are pleased that many of our sites are open again. While some of the buildings may be closed, the grounds can still be enjoyed by all. Please check individual listings for more information. For our ticketed sites, we do recommend booking in advance to guarantee entry.

Find out more

Aberdour Castle and Gardens

Arbroath Abbey

The grounds and visitor centre (exhibition, shop & toilets) are open

The abbey is closed while high-level conservation works take place.

Balvenie Castle

Opening on Friday 29 March

Biggar Gasworks Museum

Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, Kirkwall

Earl's Palace is currently closed

Access to Bishop's Palace only. Free and no booking required.

Blackness Castle

We recommend booking online in advance to guarantee entry.

Bothwell Castle

Broch of Gurness

Opening on Saturday 30 March

Caerlaverock Castle

There is currently no visitor access to the West range, outer stair and North West and East towers.

Cairnpapple Hill

Castle Campbell

Corgarff Castle

Opening on Wednesday 1 May

Craigmillar Castle

Open, some restrictions in place

Dirleton Castle

There is currently no visitor access to the Guard House, South Entrance and De Vaux range

Doune Castle

We recommend booking online in advance to guarantee entry

Dryburgh Abbey

Visits will be by guided tour

Dumbarton Castle

Dunblane Cathedral

Free of charge, donations welcome

Dundonald Castle

Dundrennan Abbey

Opening on 29 March. Some restrictions in place

Dunfermline Abbey and Palace

The abbey nave and shop are open (free of charge)

The palace and refectory are closed.

Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel

Edinburgh Castle

Tickets often sell out in advance. Book your tickets online in advance for the best price and to guarantee entry.

Elcho Castle

Elgin Cathedral

Fort George

Glasgow Cathedral

Glenluce Abbey

Some restrictions in place

Hackness Martello Tower and Battery

Opening on 3 April

Hermitage Castle

Huntingtower Castle

Huntly Castle

Inchcolm Abbey

Opening on 29 March

Inchmahome Priory

Iona Abbey and Nunnery

Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement

Jedburgh Abbey

The grounds and shop are open

There is currently no visitor access to the abbey church

Kildrummy Castle

Kinneil House

House tours available, must be pre-booked

The grounds are open year-round free of charge

Linlithgow Palace

Lochleven Castle

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Visits by guided tour only

Due to limited capacity, it is recommended to reserve your visit online to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.

Melrose Abbey

The abbey grounds, cloister and museum are open

New Abbey Corn Mill

Newark Castle

Rothesay Castle

Smailholm Tower

Opening on Sunday 31 March

Spynie Palace

St Andrews Castle

Visitor centre (incls toilets, shop & exhibition) are closed. There is currently no access to the siege mine or the inside of the Fore Tower.

St Andrews Cathedral

St Rule's Tower and the Museum are currently closed.

St Vigeans Stones and Museum

Stanley Mills

Opening 29 March

Stirling Castle

We recommend booking online in advance for the best price and to guarantee entry.

Sweetheart Abbey

The cloister is open

You can visit the cloister, but there is currently no visitor access to the rest of the site

Tantallon Castle

There is currently no visitor access to the east tower and doocot.

The Blackhouse, Arnol

Tolquhon Castle

Trinity House

Opening on Saturday 5 April

Urquhart Castle

Whithorn Priory and Museum

Many of our unstaffed sites are open

From standing stones to castle grounds, many of the sites in our care are open to visit for free. Be sure to check a site is open before you travel.

Still have questions?

Take a look at our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about visiting our sites

• Discover & learn

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Get closer to nature

Easter egg hunts  

Bring friends and family together for an Easter adventure near you. Each trail includes bunny ears, activities inspired by nature and a chocolate Easter egg to take home.

Where to see daffodils  

Typically flowering from February to May, the daffodil's trumpet-like blooms announce spring's arrival. Find out where to see the best daffodil displays at the woodlands, gardens and parks in our care.

Explore the most famous gardens in our care  

We care for hundreds of historic gardens, encompassing more than 500 years of history and a range of garden styles and fashions. Learn about the most famous and significant gardens you can visit.

Top waterfalls to visit  

Be invigorated by the power of nature, when you visit one of the stunning waterfalls at places we care for.

Places you can see lambs  

Lambs are one of the first signs of spring and you can spot them at many of the places in our care. Get to know the different breeds we look after, including the Herdwick sheep that Beatrix Potter once bred.

Indoor adventures

Top 10 unique houses  

Learn about some of the most unusual houses we look after and find out what makes them so special, from a tiny woodland cottage to a romantic country retreat.

Places with Tudor connections  

Discover the places we look after that have links to the Tudor period, from prominent figures like Henry VII and key events such as the dissolution of the monasteries. They’ve received royal visitors, hidden Catholic priests and witnessed important events.

Kids’ indoor activities for rainy days  

How do you keep the kids entertained on a rainy day? Here's a selection of indoor activities that won't be ruined by a sudden downpour.

Places with famous connections  

Walk in the footsteps of famous people. From The Beatles to Sir Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie to Isaac Newton, discover more as you step into their former homes.

'50 things to do before you're 11¾'

Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities to do in spring  

Spring is the perfect time to get started on our list of ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’. Here are some of the best activities to try, from stargazing to snail racing.

No. 30 Go on a scavenger hunt  

A scavenger hunt tests your seeking skills in the wild and is lots of fun too. It’s no. 30 our ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.

No. 35 Discover what's in a pond  

No. 35 of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ is to discover what’s in a pond. Scoop some out into a tub and check out what lives beneath the surface.

No. 43 Help a wild animal  

Lend a helping hand to the animals and birds that live near you by making sure they have food to eat and a place to sleep. It’s no. 43 of our ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.

Information about visiting

Places you need to pre-book  

Planning a day out at one of the houses, buildings or gardens we care for? Some places need to be booked in advance. Read on to find out which places require booking, and learn how you can join a guided tour experience.

Visiting and booking frequently asked questions  

Find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about visiting and using the booking system.

Enhanced facilities for disabled visitors  

Find out more about which places in our care have specialised facilities for disabled visitors.

Sustainable travel to the places in our care  

Find out how you can travel to the places in our care by train, bus, bike or on foot, helping you to save money and care for the environment.

Touring Pass  

If you're travelling to the UK from overseas this year, buy a National Trust Touring Pass for entry to more than 300 places in our care. With 7-day and 14-day options available, the pass can be tailored to fit your trip. Discover where you can visit with the Touring Pass and how to buy yours.

Enjoy access to more than 500 places with National Trust membership. Join today and help protect nature, beauty and history – for everyone, for ever.

PRESENTED BY VISITSCOTLAND

• DESTINATION GUIDE

Visiting Scotland? Here’s what the locals love

From finding a secret beach to teeing off at a storied golf course, these are the top experiences Scots recommend.

Though Scotland is small (30,000 square miles) its countless castles, islands, and lochs make it hard to decide where and how to spend your time. We asked local experts to help narrow down your choices, from a celebrity chef’s favorite restaurants to a golf writer’s preferred championship courses.

Sip sweet whiskies in Scotland’s distillery hub

With over 50 distilleries, Speyside is Scotland’s most prolific whisky-producing region. “Most Speyside distilleries are renowned for their production of whiskies that are smooth and sweet, with flavors of vanilla, honey, dried fruits—even Christmas cake,” says David Craig, founder of Spirit of the Spey , which runs distillery tours by canoe.

Craig suggests visiting The Balvenie distillery in Dufftown for its working malting floor and on-site cooperage; Speyburn in Rothes for its “perfectly preserved” traditional drum maltings; and the “picturesque” Speyside Distillery , set in a converted water mill in Kingussie.

Photograph majestic deer on a Scottish ridge

Scotland’s dramatic scenery is a big draw for photographers. “I would recommend a light mirrorless camera for all the walking and hiking you will be doing, with rain covers, a 24-70mm lens, a 70-200mm or even something longer as the deer are often a long way off,” says Nat Geo photographer Robert Ormerod .

One of Ormerod’s preferred places for wildlife photography is the Alladale Wilderness Reserve , which has been at the forefront of Scotland’s rewilding efforts . “At the right time, you can hear stags rutting and you can sometimes see them silhouetted against the skyline as they move about the hills and ridges.”

Dig into Scotland’s top-tier locavore scene

“While we often complain about our weather in Scotland, our rainy climate is perfect for growing,” says celebrity chef Nick Nairn , who runs several restaurants across the country.

These days, there’s more variety at Scottish restaurants than ever before, with chefs championing homegrown ingredients. The Newport in Newport-on-Tay, Fife, and the Glenturret Lalique Restaurant near Crieff, Perthshire, are both great options for locavores. But Restaurant Andrew Fairlie , in the Gleneagles Hotel, is one of Nairn’s all-time favorites. “It has its Secret Garden, which allows them to source their own fruit, vegetables, edible flowers, and herbs.” It’s also one of only two restaurants (with Glenturret Lalique) in Scotland with two Michelin stars.

Go off-grid and offline

Despite Scotland’s small size, it’s surprisingly easy to escape the modern world. Local travel writer Harris Clark recommends the Knoydart peninsula, which has no roads in or out and is accessible only via a ferry or a three-day hike. “Ladhar Beinn [on Knoydart] is one of Scotland’s most dramatic munros [Scottish mountains over 3,000 feet], dominating the horizon like a peak in a Tolkien adventure,” he says.

Scotland’s network of over a hundred bothies—no-cost basic shelters—are another way to go offline. Clark’s favorite is the Garbh Choire Bothy , which is “legendary among mountaineers” for its location, “perched like an eagle’s nest under the towering cliffs of Braeriach in the Cairngorms.” The bothy is located at grid reference NN959986 on an Ordnance Survey map ( or app ) but there’s no marked trail leading to it; Clark recommends it for experienced hikers only.

Find secret beaches on the wild west coast

Known for wind, waves, and whales, Scotland’s west coast is unmatched for sheer drama. One of the most captivating sections is the beach-ringed Ardnamurchan peninsula, the mainland’s most westerly point. Jessica Thompson, co-owner of hotel and restaurant Mingary Castle on Ardnamurchan, names Sanna Bay as her top spot. “It showcases the best of Scotland’s coastlines with beautiful, white shell sand and clear, turquoise sea. It offers amazing views of the small Isles Rum, Eigg, Muck, and Canna and many visitors have spotted whales and dolphins.” For drams with sea views, Thompson recommends the Ardnamurchan Distillery .

Explore design history in a UNESCO creative city

Despite a population of just 148,000, Dundee is a UNESCO City of Design and is home to Scotland’s only dedicated design museum: the Kengo Kuma-designed V & A Dundee. Jewelry designer Genna Delaney draws inspiration from the city’s varied architecture—including its historic jute mills —and rocky coast. “Dundee has a thriving creative community; the DCA [Dundee Contemporary Arts] and the V & A host many events to bring creatives together,” she says.

As well as events, the DCA holds regular workshops and exhibitions, as does The McManus art gallery, which Delaney recommends visiting for its sweeping Gothic architecture.

Get up close with endemic wildlife

Scotland has an “amazing array of species,” says conservationist Tom Bowser, founder of the Argaty Red Kites rewilding estate in Perthshire. He suggests visiting the Isle of Mull for otters, hen harriers, dolphins, and the majestic white-tailed eagle, one of Scotland’s two endemic eagle species. “Tour companies like Nature Scotland and Mull Charters offer superb opportunities to see these birds,” says Bowser.

Closer to home, Bowser’s preferred Perthshire tour operator is Aquila Ecology in St. Fillans. It’s “run by incredible naturalists” who “offer the chance to see beavers, eagles, red squirrels, and more.”

Play on a championship course in the birthplace of golf

Playing the last few holes of St Andrews’ Old Course is “almost a spiritual experience,” says David Jones, who runs the golf course review site UK Golf Guy . “Every great in the history of the game has made the same walk back towards the town.”

But Prestwick , which hosted the first ever Open Championship in 1860, may be “the most fun of them all,” adds Jones. And Muirfield is “one of the best laid out courses anywhere; the routing of a clockwise front 9 with the anti-clockwise back 9 inside means the wind rarely plays in the same direction.”

Discover music’s next superstar at a storied Glasgow venue

Witnessing a gig in Glasgow—a UNESCO City of Music —is so special, it almost doesn’t matter whom you see. “There simply isn’t a better crowd than the Glasgow crowd,” says Iain Diamond, director of events company Crowdsurf Network Services . “Expect friendly faces, helpful hands up from the moshpit, and plenty of banter.”

“The Barrowland Ballroom is iconic, from its neon sign to its sprung dance floor,” adds Diamond. “David Bowie and Dave Grohl both said it was their favorite place to play.” He also loves King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut   for scouting local talent, but his favorite spot is Nice N Sleazy : “Low ceilinged, intimate, and right in the band’s faces.”

( For more tips on what to do in Scotland, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• FOOD TOURISM
• WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
• DISTILLERIES

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• things to do

Castles in Scotland

Some of the most recognisable castles in Scotland are in our care. Whether you’re walking in the footsteps of Jacobites, feasting your eyes on priceless collections, learning about Scotland’s architectural heritage, or admiring the spectacular gardens, visiting one of our castles is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Scottish culture and history.

Aberdeenshire castles

Castle fraser.

The core of Castle Fraser, one of the grandest tower houses in Scotland, may date back to the 1450s. In the 16th century, successive generations of the Fraser family made additions to the castle and built it up into a huge fortified structure. For over 400 years, the lairds filled it with an extensive collection of portraits and mementos that show how tastes and fashions have changed over the centuries.

Did you know?

There are lots of secret spaces in Castle Fraser, including the laird’s lug – a tiny hideaway that spies and the laird himself used to eavesdrop on visitors in the Great Hall.

Craigievar Castle

This iconic tower house is famous for its pink walls and fairytale feel – rumour has it that it was an inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella castle. Construction began around 1576, and it’s a fine example of the Scottish Baronial style. Much of the exterior remains almost unchanged since around 1626.

Early in 2019 a volunteer at Craigievar discovered a heavy studded oak door in one of the castle’s barmkin buildings – we think it’s the original front door to the castle and possibly the oldest door in our care.

Drum Castle

Given to the Irvine family by Robert the Bruce, and with links to the Jacobites (the castle’s 17th laird fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie at Culloden ), Drum Castle is steeped in Scottish history. There are tales to discover outside, too, where the Garden of Historic Roses shows which roses were available for cultivation from the 17th to the 20th century.

The castle’s famous Victorian library, which is home to over 4,000 rare books, also has a secret network of chambers concealed behind its bookcases.

Fyvie Castle

With almost 800 years of history, Fyvie Castle gives you a great sense of what life in auld Scotland was like. This magnificent fortress is now a fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture, with carved sandstone exteriors that hint at the castle’s lavish interiors. Here you’ll find world-famous oil paintings and impressive suits of armour.

High up on the exterior walls at Fyvie Castle, you might spot a number of stone ‘guardians’, ranging from musicians and sportsmen to fantastic beasts.

Iconic Castles

Culzean castle.

The former home of the 10th Earl of Cassillis (a man who really liked to show off his wealth), Culzean Castle is a place of outlandish opulence. Perched on the Ayrshire cliffs, it was designed for one of Scotland’s oldest families – the Culzean Kennedys – by Robert Adam, the top Scottish architect of his day. From the famous Oval Staircase, to the vast collection of pistols and swords on display, to the expansive surrounding parkland and manicured gardens, there are lots of reasons why it’s one of the best castles in Scotland.

General Dwight D Eisenhower used the top floor of Culzean Castle as his family’s holiday home for more than 20 years.

Brodick Castle

As revered for its setting as much as its history, Brodick Castle stands proud on the Isle of Arran, surrounded by many of the things that Scotland is known for – mountains, water, woodland and wildlife. The current castle, filled with Victorian artefacts and trophies (as well as a traditional arcade), was built in 1844, but the seat dates back centuries as a strategic fortress.

In the gardens at Brodick you’ll find a reconstructed Bronze Age roundhouse that helps us show visitors how communities once lived in ancient Scotland.

Brodie Castle

The different sections of Brodie Castle – the 16th-century guard chamber, the cosy 17th-century wing, and the sprawling Victorian extension – show how the castle’s purpose changed over time. More recently, it’s become one of the best places in Scotland to see daffodils, which were the favourite flower of the castle’s 24th laird, Ian Brodie. There are more than 400 varieties in the grounds, many of which he bred himself.

Brodie Castle is now home to Scotland’s biggest bunny sculpture. It’s part of our Playful Garden , where children can play and learn as they explore the castle’s rich history in a different way.

Kellie Castle

Part-medieval castle, part-Victorian home, the oldest sections of Kellie Castle date back to the 14th century, but the elaborate interiors were installed by the Lorimer family in the late 1800s. The Lorimers were an artistic family, and the castle is home to stunning ornamental ceilings, exquisite furniture, intricate murals and traditional Scottish walled garden.

A mural above the fireplace in the Drawing Room was painted in 1897 by Phoebe Anna Traquair, one of the most famous Arts & Crafts artists.

Alloa Tower

The largest surviving keep in Scotland seems bold and forbidding from the outside, but inside Alloa Tower is a treasure house of art and riches. It’s also home to a fascinating history, including tales of the Erskine family and their involvement in the Jacobite cause. Both Mary, Queen of Scots and her son James VI spent time at the castle as children.

There’s a medieval pit dungeon at Alloa Tower that is probably the oldest part of the building – dare you take a peek?!

Scottish Palaces

Falkland palace.

One of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland, Falkland Palace was inspired by the grand châteaux in France. It was brought to life by James IV and James V in the early 16th century and was a favourite retreat for the Stuart kings and queens, with its splendid gardens and royal chapel. In the 19th century it was on the verge of ruin, but was saved by the 3rd Marquess of Bute.

Mary, Queen of Scots adored Falkland. She spent her time there hunting, enjoying falconry and playing a spot of tennis on what is now the oldest real (or royal) tennis court in the world.

Culross Palace

Although not a royal palace, this impressive house definitely aspires to it! Built for merchant and engineer Sir George Bruce around the start of the 17th century, Culross Palace is painted in an eye-catching ochre colour, making it really stand out among the white-harled buildings of the historic Culross burgh. The small living spaces and fascinating painted ceilings inside offer a fascinating glimpse into 17th- and 18th-century life.

Culross Palace and other parts of the burgh have been used for filming on the hit TV series Outlander . Can you spot Jamie and Claire in the Withdrawing Room?

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