H I S T O R I C SCOTLAND H I S T O R I C SCOTLAND

Discover
5,000 Years of History

Let us take you on an exciting journey through

time with our 77 historic attractions.

Historic Scotland, Longmore House, Salisbury Place, Edinburgh EH9 1SH

Tel: 0131 668 8800
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
 Welcome to Your
General Information
Historic Scotland
Historic Scotland is your gateway
to a rich and colourful past.
See brochs, castles, palaces,
abbeys, towers and tombs.
Stories of people, places and
power. Over 5,000 years of history
tells the story of a nation.
This is your guide to our 77 leading attractions.
Historic Scotland cares for a total of 345 sites.
Dig deeper at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Iconic Attractions
From the Islands in the north to the Borders,
we offer days out at Scotland’s most fascinating
attractions. Our collection includes the world-famous
icon of Edinburgh Castle, plus the atmospheric Stirling
Castle and the dramatic Urquhart Castle. These places
saw many of the most significant events in Scottish history.
Other picturesque attractions include the great Border
Abbeys - magnificent ruins set in idyllic countryside.
Our collection of famous Orkney sites includes Skara Brae,
a prehistoric village older than the pyramids and part of
the Orkney World Heritage Site.
We care for these national treasures and invite you
to enjoy and experience them. This guide gives details of
77 of Historic Scotland’s leading attractions. We hope it
helps to plan your route. For further details please visit
our website at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
2 Cover image of Craigmillar Castle courtesy of VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint
Experience
General Information
Visitors to our leading attractions can expect a warm
welcome from our helpful and friendly staff. Our
properties also offer a mix of visitor centres, exhibitions,
audio tours, guide books, interpretation panels, cafés
and shops to help you enjoy your visit to the full.
Events
An ongoing programme of living history,
drama, music and special events is available
at many sites. For more information call 0131 668 8885
or visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/events
Explore Historic Scotland
An Explorer Pass offers
access to all Historic
Scotland attractions.
Starting at just £20 an Explorer Pass gives you free
access to 77 sites and 5,000 years of history.
Visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/explorer
or call 0131 668 8831 for information.
Membership
For unlimited entry to attractions all year round become
a member of Historic Scotland. Benefits also include
a quarterly colour membership magazine and free
entry to over 400 Historic Scotland day time events.
For details ask at any site or contact us at:
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
T: 0131 668 8999 E: hs.members@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
See the back pages of this brochure for opening times,
key to symbols and a site map.
Enjoy your Visit
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
3
Edinburgh and the Lothians

Edinburgh and the Lothians

Photograph by Colin Baxter

Edinburgh castle dIScoVEr

A proud and majestic symbol of Scotland, famous the
world over. Unmissable highlights of Edinburgh Castle’s
wealth of treasures are the crown jewels, The Honours
of Scotland, which are amongst the oldest in Europe and
The Stone of Destiny. The Great Hall has a striking arms
and armour display. Also off Crown Square is the Royal
Palace including the birthing chamber where Mary Queen
of Scots gave birth. Don’t miss St Margaret’s Chapel,
Edinburgh’s oldest building. The Scottish National War
Memorial, a moving experience, is the shrine to those
who gave their lives in conflict. Ask our team about our
recommended 10 highlights.
Enjoying a Visit
A free tour by one of our experienced guides will help make the most
of your visit. Audio guides in eight languages are also available for hire.
A children’s trail is specially designed for our youngest visitors.
Gifts & refreshments
• The castle’s three gift shops sell a wide range of high quality
souvenirs, books and gifts
• The Redcoat Café offers a hot carvery, light meals, sandwiches
and drinks. The Queen Anne Café is a stylish venue which provides
distinctive Scottish cuisine and afternoon teas
Did you know... In World War II, Scotland’s
Crown Jewels were secretly buried in David’s
Tower to prevent them falling into enemy hands.
Visit...
• In Edinburgh at the top of the Royal Mile
• Tel: 0131 225 9846
• Postcode EH1 2NG
• Open all year. 21 March - 30 September 9.30am to 6pm
and 1 October - 31 March 9.30am to 5pm. Last tickets
45 mins before closing. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Please note that opening times for the independent museums
may vary
• Admission: Prices range from Adult £10.00 - £12.00
Child £5.00 - £6.00 Concessions £7.00 - £9.50
• We recommend at least 2 hours to see the major
attractions within the castle
• Parking for drivers with a blue disabled badge
• Steep inclines and steps - courtesy vehicle available
★★★★★
Fast Track Tickets
To beat any queues it is recommended that tickets are bought
online in advance at: www.edinburghcastle gov.uk

ExpErIEncE ExpLorE
• Marvel at the strength of this • Remarkable places where
military stronghold and see kings, queens and noblemen
the extent of its firepower lived, entertained and
worshipped
• Follow in royalty’s footsteps
in the chamber where Mary • Dismal dungeons where
Queen of Scots gave birth countless prisoners were
and the Great Hall, where held over the centuries
4 monarchs feasted 5
Edinburgh and the Lothians

Edinburgh and the Lothians

Craigmillar Castle Linlithgow Palace

Craigmillar Castle Linlithgow Palace

A well-preserved medieval castle, Craigmillar has a tower house, The magnificent ruins of Linlithgow Palace are set in a park beside a
courtyard and gardens. Craigmillar’s story is linked with that of Mary loch. Most of the Stewart kings lived here and numerous renovations
Queen of Scots. There are superb views from the tower house. to the palace’s grand façades and chambers were carried out as each
• 2.5m SE of Edinburgh off the A7 sought to create the ideal modern palace. The magnificent courtyard
• Postcode EH16 4SY fountain has been carefully restored and is now on view to visitors.
• Tel: 0131 661 4445 The loch is a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to the extensive
• Take any bus for the Royal Infirmary and then follow footpath to the wildfowl population.
NW of the hospital complex • In Linlithgow off the M9
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday • Postcode EH49 7AL
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20 • Tel: 01506 842896
★★★★ • Open all year
• Last ticket sold 45 mins before closing
• Admission: Adult £5.20 Child £2.60
Trinity House Maritime Museum Concessions £4.20
An outstanding collection of maritime memorabilia ★★★★
inside an elegant Georgian building.
• 99 Kirkgate, Leith, Edinburgh Blackness Castle
• Postcode EH6 6BJ
• Tel: 0131 554 3289 Built in the 15th century by one of Scotland’s most powerful families,
• Visits must be pre-booked the Crichtons, Blackness was never destined to be a peaceful lordly
(Max 10-15 people) residence; its enduring roles were those of garrison fortress and state
• Access for people with disabilities is limited prison. Some visitors may find it difficult to access parts of the castle
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 due to uneven surfaces.
Concessions £3.20 • 4m NE of Linlithgow on the Firth of Forth, off the A904
• Postcode EH49 7NH
• Tel: 01506 834807
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday
Crichton Castle • Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20
Built as the lordly residence of the Crichtons and later home to the ★★★★
earls of Bothwell. Stunning 16th-century courtyard façade.
• 2.5m SSW of Pathhead off the A68 Cairnpapple Hill
• Postcode EH37 5QH
• Tel: 01875 320017 Cairnpapple was used from about 3000 BC to
• Open summer only AD 500 – firstly as a ceremonial site then later
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 as a burial site.
Concessions £3.00 • 3m N of Bathgate, 1m from Torphichen
★★★ • Tel: 01506 634622
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85
Did You Know? Concessions £3.00
Trinity House museum is also still the headquarters of a guild of ★★★★
ships’ masters and mariners which dates from 1380.

6 7
Edinburgh and the Lothians

Scottish Borders
Dirleton Castle and Gardens Smailholm Tower

Dirleton Castle and Gardens Melrose Abbey

13th-century Dirleton Castle has boasted a
garden probably since its earliest days as a
medieval fortified residence. Today, there is
a colourful blend of traditional formal gardens
and more contemporary plantings, including
– as the Guinness Book of Records testifies –
the world’s longest herbaceous border.
• In Dirleton village 3m W of North
Berwick on the A198
• Postcode EH39 5ER
• Tel: 01620 850330
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
★★★★
Tantallon Castle
A formidable stronghold set atop cliffs on the Firth of Forth, Tantallon
Castle was the seat of the Douglas earls of Angus. Tantallon served
as a noble fortification for more than three centuries and endured
frequent sieges.
• 3m E of North Berwick off the A198
• Postcode EH39 5PN
• Tel: 01620 892727
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
★★★★
Melrose Abbey is a magnificent ruin on a grand scale with lavishly
decorated masonry. The abbey was the burial place of Robert the
Bruce’s heart, now marked with a commemorative carved stone
plaque within the grounds. Visitors can also visit a museum housing
a display of artefacts found within the abbey. Free audio tour and
children’s trail available.
• In Melrose off the A7 or A68
• Postcode TD6 9LG
• Tel: 01896 822562
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.20 Child £2.60
Concessions £4.20
★★★★
Smailholm Tower
Set high on a rocky outcrop, Smailholm is a well preserved 15th-
century rectangular tower, set within a barmkin wall. It houses an
exhibition of tapestries and costume dolls relating to Sir Walter Scott’s
Minstrelsy of the Scottish Borders. Free audio tour available.
• Near Smailholm village, 6m W of Kelso on the A6089
then follow the B6937 before turning on to the B6404
• Postcode TD5 7PG
• Tel: 01573 460365
• Open all year. Winter: open weekends only
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
★★★★★

Seton Collegiate Church Hermitage Castle

An attractive ecclesiastical building in a wooded setting, An awesome, eerie ruin, set in a lonely spot,
Seton Collegiate Church has a 15th-century chancel and apse. Hermitage Castle has a history filled with
• 1m SE of Cockenzie off the A198 intrigue, murders, trysts, torture, and treason.
• Postcode EH32 0PG • 5.5m NE of Newcastleton, B6399
• Tel: 01875 813334 • Postcode TD9 0LU
• Open summer only • Tel: 01387 376222
• Admission: Adult £3.20 Child £1.60 • Open summer only
Concessions £2.70 • Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85
★★★★ Concessions £3.00
★★★★

8 9
Scottish Borders

Dumfries and Galloway

Jedburgh Abbey Threave Castle

Jedburgh Abbey Caerlaverock Castle

Jedburgh Abbey, founded in 1138, was a frequent target for invading With its moat, twin-towered gatehouse and imposing battlements,
border armies. Today, there is a cloister and herb garden to explore. Caerlaverock Castle is a Maxwell stronghold, the epitome of the
The visitor centre contains a reconstruction of the abbey in its heyday medieval fortress. The castle’s turbulent history owes much to its
and artefacts excavated from the site. There is also a museum of the proximity to England which brought it into border conflicts.
construction of the abbey with hands-on interactives. Computer- Today visitors can enjoy a siege warfare exhibition, a children’s
based video and virtual tour available. Dressing up clothes for adults adventure park, a nature trail and a children’s trail. The castle is
and children. connected by footpath to the adjacent National Nature Reserve.
• In Jedburgh on the A68 Caerlaverock Café is open daily in summer, and only Friday, Saturday
• Tel: 01835 863925 and Sunday in winter.
• Postcode TD8 6JQ • 8m SE of Dumfries on the B725
• Open all year • Postcode DG1 4RU
• Admission: Adult £5.20 Child £2.60 Concessions £4.20 • Tel: 01387 770244
★★★★★ • Open all year
• Video presentation available
• Admission: Adult £5.20 Child £2.60 Concessions £4.20
Dryburgh Abbey
★★★★★
Dryburgh sits by the River Tweed, its
remarkably complete medieval ruins making
it easy to appreciate the attractions of Threave Castle
monastic life. The abbey buildings were On an island in the River Dee stands Threave Castle, a massive 14th-
destroyed by fire three times and ravaged century tower built by Archibald the Grim, Lord of Galloway, third earl
by war on four occasions, yet fine examples of Douglas. It has at its base an artillery fortification built before 1455
of ecclesiastic architecture and masonry when James II besieged the castle.
remain and its chapter house reveals plaster
and paintwork dating back to its inception. • 3m W of Castle Douglas on the A75
• Postcode DG7 1TJ
• 8m SE of Melrose on the B6404, near • Tel: 07711 223101
St Boswells (turn left onto the B6356) • Open summer only, seven days a week,
• Postcode TD6 0RQ 9.30am to last outward sailing at 4.30pm
• Tel: 01835 822381 • Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20
• Open all year • Ferry included in admission price
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35
Concessions £3.70 ★★★★
★★★★★
Dundrennan Abbey
Built in the latter half of the 12th century, the abbey was home to a
community of Cistercian monks.
• 6.5m SE of Kirkcudbright on the A711
• Postcode DG6 4QH
Did You Know? • Tel: 01557 500262
Dryburgh Abbey, beside the River Tweed, is the final resting place • Open all year. Winter: open weekends only
of author Sir Walter Scott and World War I commander in chief • Admission: Adult £3.00 Child £1.50 Concessions £2.50
Field Marshall Earl Haig.
★★★★
10 11
Dumfries and Galloway

Dumfries and Galloway

Sweetheart Abbey Cardoness Castle

Sweetheart Abbey Cardoness Castle

Sweetheart Abbey was founded in 1273 by
Lady Devorgilla of Galloway in memory of
her husband. On her death, she was laid to
rest here with her husband’s embalmed heart.
• In New Abbey village on the A710
• Postcode DG2 8BU
• Tel: 01387 850397
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £3.00 Child £1.50 Concessions £2.50
A well-preserved six-storey tower house dating back to the 15th
century. Its battlements command excellent views over Fleet Bay.
• 1m SW of Gatehouse of Fleet on the A75
• Postcode DG7 2EH
• Tel: 01557 814427
• Open all year. Winter: open weekends only
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
★★★★

★★★ Glenluce Abbey

Founded around 1192, Glenluce is situated
New Abbey Corn Mill in a beautiful and peaceful valley. Visitors
can see an exhibition of objects excavated
In full working order, the water-powered New Abbey Corn Mill has on the site.
been carefully restored. It is operated regularly in the summer months
to demonstrate to visitors how oatmeal was produced. • 2m NW of Glenluce village off the A75
• Postcode DG8 0AF
• 7m S of Dumfries on the A710 • Tel: 01581 300541
• Postcode DG2 8BU • Open summer only
• Tel: 01387 850260 • Admission: Adult £3.20 Child £1.60 Concessions £2.70
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday.
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20 ★★★★
★★★★
Whithorn Priory and Museum
and The Whithorn Story Exhibition
MacLellan’s Castle
Founded by St Ninian in the 5th century, Whithorn is the site of
The remains of this late 16th-century house show how architecture
Scotland’s first Christian church. New display of outstanding carved
changed from the heavily defended tower house to a new, more
stones is housed in the refurbished museum.
domestic scale.
• At Whithorn on the A746
• In Kirkcudbright on the A711
• Postcode DG8 8PY
• Postcode DG6 4JD
• Tel: Whithorn Trust 01988 500508, Priory: 01988 500700
• Tel: 01557 331856
• Open 21 March - 31 October 10.30am to 5.00pm
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £2.70
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
Museum and ‘The Whithorn Story’. Please telephone for opening
★★★★
times. (Historic Scotland Members discount available for admission).
Historic Scotland Members retail discount not applicable at
‘The Whithorn Story Exhibition’.
Did You Know? Visit our website: www.whithornpriorymuseum.gov.uk
Despite being a sheriff depute Ninian McCulloch, of Cardoness
Castle, was notorious for crimes that included stealing 1500 animals
from the lands of his own mother.

12 13
Glasgow, Clyde and Ayrshire

Glasgow, Clyde and Ayrshire

Bothwell Castle Rothesay Castle

Glasgow Cathedral Dumbarton Castle

Glasgow Cathedral is built on the site where St Kentigern, or Mungo, Dumbarton was the centre of the ancient kingdom of Strathclyde
the first bishop within the ancient British kingdom of Strathclyde, from the 5th century until 1018. Impressively situated on a volcanic
is thought to have been buried in AD 612. rock overlooking the Firth of Clyde, it was an important royal refuge.
The present cathedral was built during the 13th to 15th centuries. New children’s trail available on site.
It is the only medieval cathedral on the Scottish mainland to have • In Dumbarton off the A82
survived the 1560 Reformation virtually complete. • Postcode G82 1JJ
• In Glasgow, off the M8 at J15 • Tel: 01389 732167
• Postcode G4 0QZ • Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday
• Tel: 0141 552 6891/552 0988 • Last ticket sold 45 minutes before closing
• Open all year. Summer: 9.30am to 5.30pm, • Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20
Sunday 1pm to 5pm. Winter: 9.30am to ★★★★
4.30pm, Sunday 1pm to 4.30pm
• Admission: Free
Newark Castle
This 15th-century castle is most associated with Patrick Maxwell.
His achievement in extending Newark Castle is weakened by his
Bothwell Castle notoriety for murdering two neighbours and mistreating his wife.
Bothwell is Scotland’s largest and finest 13th-century castle. • In Port Glasgow on the A8 at Newark Roundabout
Part of the original circular keep survives. • Postcode PA14 5NH
• At Uddingston off the B7071 • Tel: 01475 741858
• Postcode G71 8BL • Open summer only
• Tel: 01698 816894 • Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday ★★★★
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
★★★★ Rothesay Castle
Built to an unusual circular plan, 13th-century Rothesay Castle had a
Crossraguel Abbey long and close association with the Stewart Kings of Scotland.
Crossraguel was founded early in the 13th • In Rothesay, Isle of Bute. Ferry from Wemyss Bay on the A78
century by the Earl of Carrick and its remains • Postcode PA20 0DA
include the church, cloister, chapter house • Tel: 01700 502691
and domestic premises. • Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday
• 2m S of Maybole on the A77 • Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20
• Postcode KA19 5HQ ★★★★
• Tel: 01655 883113
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85
Concessions £3.00
Did You Know?
★★★ In 1230 Rothesay Castle was attacked by Norsemen. Despite having
boiling pitch poured on their heads they succeeded in cutting
through its soft stone walls with their axes.

14 15
Glasgow, Clyde and Ayrshire
Craignethan Castle
Craignethan Castle
Craignethan, dating back to around 1530, is an important early
artillery fortification with an exceptional residential tower and fine
setting. The oldest part is the tower house built by Sir James Hamilton
of Finnart. The castle’s defences include a caponier, a stone vaulted
artillery chamber which is rare in Britain.
• 5.5m WNW of Lanark off the A72
• Postcode ML11 9PL
• Tel: 01555 860364
• Open all year. Winter: open weekends only
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
★★★★
Dundonald Castle
Imposing Dundonald Castle was built by Robert II in the 1370s to
mark his succession to the throne of Scotland.
• In the village of Dundonald on the A71, 12m from Ayr and 5m
from Kilmarnock. Leave A77 onto B730, follow signs for
Dundonald
• Postcode KA2 9HD
• Tel: 01563 851489
• Historic Scotland Members retail discount not applicable
• Open seven days a week from April - October 10.00am to 5.00pm
• Admission: Please telephone for up to date prices
★★★★
Rowallan Castle
Set in rolling Ayrshire parkland, Rowallan Castle is a hidden gem.
The castle is an extraordinary Renaissance house and within it is the
evidence of its development from the 13th to the 18th century. It was
the home of an important Ayrshire family, the Muirs, who counted
writers, historians, composers and builders amongst their number.
Indeed, the earliest lute music to survive in Scotland was written at
Rowallan and can once again be heard in its original setting.
• In Ayrshire, 18m S of Glasgow off the M77
• NS 434 424
• Postcode KA3 2LP
• Opening is by prior arrangement and we provide pre-booked
guided tours during summer season, call 0131 550 7603 to
arrange. For tour information go to our website.
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
16
Central and West
Bonawe Historic Iron Furnace
Argyll’s Lodging
Argyll’s Lodging is a beautiful townhouse on the upper approaches
to Stirling Castle. A chance to see the most splendid and complete
surviving example of a 17th-century townhouse. Newly refurnished
kitchens. Access is by guided tour only, phone Stirling Castle for
timings.
• In Stirling’s historic Old Town just below Stirling Castle
off the M9
• Postcode FK8 1EG
• Tel: 01786 450000 (Stirling Castle)
• Parking at Stirling Castle
• Admission: Ticket to Stirling Castle includes tour of Argyll’s Lodging.
★★★★
Castle Campbell and Gardens
Dramatically situated above Dollar Glen is the forbidding looking
15th-century fortress, Castle Campbell. The castle was the lowland
stronghold of the powerful Campbell earls of Argyll, who were seldom
far from the major political and religious events of late medieval
Scotland. Attractive terraced gardens. Summer café (home baking).
• At the head of Dollar Glen, 10m E of Stirling on the A91
• Postcode FK14 7PP
• Tel: 01259 742408
• There is no coach/bus access. Sturdy shoes are recommended for
the walk to the castle
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
★★★★
Bonawe Historic Iron Furnace
The most complete charcoal-fuelled ironworks in Britain, Bonawe was
founded in 1753. Displays bring to life the industrial heritage of the
area and illustrate how iron was made.
• By the village of Taynuilt off the A85
• Postcode PA35 1JQ
• Tel: 01866 822432
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20
★★★★
17
Central and West

Central and West

Courtesy of VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint

Stirling Castle
discover
Perched high upon a mighty rock, it was here the kings
Did you know... Mary Queen of Scots was
and queens of Scotland held magnificent feasts and crowned at Stirling at the age of 10 months.
celebrations. Royal stronghold, palace of pleasures,
regimental garrison – Stirling Castle has played many roles.
And on the sweeping plains beneath its ramparts great
medieval armies clashed to decide the fate of nations. Visit...
• At the head of Stirling’s historic Old Town off the M9,
Junction 9 or 10
Enjoying a Visit • Postcode FK8 1EJ
Visit the superb exhibition which brings the castle’s history to life. • Tel: 01786 450000
Explore at your own pace with the audio tour. Virtual tour enables • Open all year seven days a week. 21 March - 30 September 9.30am
anyone with difficulty moving around to make the most of their visit. to 6pm. 1 October - 31 March 9.30am to 5pm. Last ticket sold
Admission includes a guided tour of Argyll’s Lodging. 45 mins before closing. Regimental Museum closes 45 mins
before castle
Access • Admission: Adult £8.50 Child £4.25 Concessions £6.50
• Car parking, max 4 hours. Cars £2.00. Coach parking, max 4 hours.
Courtesy bus for visitors who have difficuly with steep inclines/steps. Coaches £5.00
Apartments in the castle are accessible apart from the Museum of the
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. Medieval kitchens and Elphinstone ★★★★★
Tower not suitable for visitors using wheelchairs.

Gifts & Refreshments

Shops contain a variety of souvenirs, books, whisky, jewellery and
tapestry products. Unicorn Café provides a delicious menu of
traditional hot and cold food.

Experience explore
• The Hunt of the Unicorn, • The Chapel Royal where the
Europe’s finest tapestry series, ill-fated Mary Queen of Scots
is being recreated and hung in was crowned
the castle
• The wooden, carved
• See the battlefields where ‘Stirling Heads’, a wonderful
William Wallace and Robert example of Renaissance art
the Bruce fought for Scottish
18 independence 19
Central and West

Central and West

Doune Castle Inchmahome Priory

Doune Castle Dunblane Cathedral

Built for the Regent Albany, Doune Castle is a magnificent late
14th-century courtyard castle. Its most striking feature is the keep-
gatehouse which includes the splendid Duke’s Hall with its musicians’
gallery, double fireplace and carved oak screen. Discover the new
nature trail in the castle grounds.
• In Doune, 10m NW of Stirling off the A84
• Postcode FK16 6EA
• Tel: 01786 841742
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday
and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10
Concessions £3.20
★★★
Dunstaffnage Castle
Built before 1275 on a huge rock overlooking
the Firth of Lorn, Dunstaffnage was the mighty
stronghold of the MacDougalls. The castle,
with its huge curtain wall, was captured by
Robert the Bruce in 1309 and remained in
royal possession for some years. Dunstaffnage
became the temporary prison of Flora
MacDonald in 1746.
• Near Dunbeg 3m N of Oban off the A85
• Postcode PA37 1PZ
• Tel: 01631 562465
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday
and Friday
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85
Concessions £3.00
★★★★
Did You Know?
Inchmahome Priory, on the Lake of Menteith, was founded around
1238 by earl Walter Comyn whose castle stood on the neighbouring
island of Inch Talla.
One of Scotland’s noblest medieval churches.
The lower part of the tower is Romanesque
but the larger part of the building is of the 13th
century. Sir Rowand Anderson restored the
Cathedral in 1889 – 93.
• In Dunblane, just off the B8033
• Postcode FK15 0AQ
• Tel: 01786 823388
• Open all year. Summer: Monday to
Saturday 9.30am to 5.30pm. Closed for
lunch 12.30pm to 1.30pm, Sunday 2pm
to 5.30pm. Winter: Monday to Saturday
9.30am to 4.30pm. Sunday 2pm to 4.30pm.
As this is still in use as a parish church,
it may be closed during services
• Last entry 30 mins before closing
• Admission: Free, donations welcome
• Wheelchair available
Inchmahome Priory
Set on an island in the Lake of Menteith, Inchmahome is an idyllically-
situated Augustinian monastery dating from 1238. Much of the 13th-
century building remains. There is a wide range of plant and wildlife
on the island.
• On an island in the Lake of Menteith.
Reached by ferry from Port of Menteith
8m S of Callander off the A81
• Postcode FK8 3RA
• Tel: 01877 385294
• Open summer only, seven days a week,
9.30am to last outward sailing at 4.30pm.
Last sailing from the island 5pm.
Shop closed 12.30pm to 1.30pm
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
• Boat trip included in admission price.
★★★

20 21
Central and West

The Kingdom of Fife

Iona Abbey St Andrews Castle

Iona Abbey and Nunnery St Andrews Cathedral

One of Scotland’s most historic and sacred sites, Iona Abbey
was founded by St Columba and his Irish followers in AD 563.
A celebrated focus for Christian pilgrimage, Iona retains its spiritual
atmosphere and remains a vital place of worship. Over a century ago,
the abbey and monastic buildings were restored, and in 1938, The
Iona Community was founded to continue the tradition of worship
in the abbey through daily services and teaching. Iona’s historical
and religious attractions include the abbey church and cloisters, St
Columba’s shrine, the site of St Columba’s writing cell, and a superb
collection of over 180 medieval carved stones and crosses. In the
Abbey graveyard, many early Scottish kings and chiefs, as well as kings
from Ireland, are buried, and nearby are the remains of the 13th-
century nunnery. There is a gift shop in the abbey cloister featuring
locally-made crafts, along with a wide range of gifts.
• On the Island of Iona, public ferry from Fionnphort, Mull
• Postcode PA76 6SQ
• Tel: 01681 700512
• Open all year, depending on the ferries
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
★★★★
St Columba Centre
A modern interpretation centre focusing on the life and work of
St Columba and the religious community he founded on Iona in
AD 563.
• In Fionnphort, 5 mins walk from
public ferry to Iona
• Postcode PA66 6BL
• Tel: 01681 700640
• Open summer only, 10am to 5pm daily,
closed 1pm to 2 pm
• Admission: Free
★★★★
The remains of what was Scotland’s largest and most magnificent
church still show how impressive St Andrews Cathedral must have
been in its prime. Its museum houses a collection of early and
later medieval sculpture as well as other relics found on the site.
Spectacular views from St Rule’s tower.
• In St Andrews on the A91
• Postcode KY16 9QL
• Tel: 01334 472563
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20
Joint ticket with the Castle: Adult £7.20 Child £3.60
Concessions £5.20
★★★★
St Andrews Castle
On a headland to the north of St Andrews stand the ruins of the
town’s castle, the main residence of the bishops and archbishops of
St Andrews – the focal point of the Church in medieval Scotland.
Today, explore the underground 16th-century siege mine and
countermine, and the ‘bottle dungeon’. There is a visitor centre
with exhibition and a children’s trail.
• In St Andrews on the A91
• Postcode KY16 9AR
• Tel: 01334 477196
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.20 Child £2.60 Concessions £4.20
Joint ticket with the Cathedral: Adult £7.20 Child £3.60
Concessions £5.20
★★★★

Did You Know? Did You Know?

Cardinal Beaton, who lived at St Andrews Castle, made so many
The holy man St Columba visited the site of Urquhart Castle in enemies that in 1546 he was murdered by local lairds and his body
the 580’s and “stilled” an angry water beast in nearby Loch Ness. hung from the walls.
22 23
The Kingdom of Fife
Aberdour Castle and Gardens
Aberdour Castle and Gardens
The 12th-century fortified residence of Aberdour was extended in the
15th, 16th and 17th centuries. It boasts a delightful walled garden
and terraces with beehive-shaped dovecot. The castle also features
a fine painted ceiling. Café open during the summer and weekends
throughout the winter.
• In Aberdour, 8m E of the Forth Bridges on the A921
• Postcode KY3 0SL • Tel: 01383 860519
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20
★★★★
Inchcolm Abbey and Island
David I established a priory here which became an abbey in 1235.
The island is famed for its wildlife and coastal defences from the two
World Wars. From May - August, access to parts of the island may be
reduced due to the behaviour of nesting gulls trying to protect their
young.
• On Inchcolm in the Firth of Forth • Tel: 01383 823332
• For Ferry Service information contact Maid of the Forth on
0131 331 5000, www.maidoftheforth.co.uk or Forth Tours on
0870 118 1866, www.forthtours.com
• Open summer only depending on availability of the ferry service,
please call to confirm
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
• Ferry charge is extra
★★★
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
As the final resting-place of some of Scotland’s greatest kings and
queens, this great abbey occupies an especially important place in
the national consciousness. The royal association ensured that this
became one of the wealthiest and grandest monasteries in the world.
The royal lodgings at the abbey developed into a spectacular palace,
which became the birthplace of Charles I.
• In Dunfermline off the M90 • Tel: 01383 724586/739026
• Postcode KY12 7PE
• Open all year. Closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:30pm. Winter: closed
Thursday afternoons, all day Friday and Sunday morning.
For opening times of the Abbey Church (not in the care of HS)
please telephone 01383 739026
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
24 ★★★★
Perthshire, Kinross and Angus
Huntingtower Castle
Arbroath Abbey
Founded in 1178 for monks of the Tironensian order by King
William the Lion, Arbroath Abbey is famous in Scottish history for
its association with the Declaration of Arbroath. In this document of
1320, Scotland’s nobles swore their independence from England.
A visitor centre provides an insight into the abbey’s history and
includes an exhibition on the Declaration. The shop offers a range
of products including gifts, books and souvenirs.
• In Arbroath town centre on the A92
• Postcode DD11 1EG
• Tel: 01241 878756
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
★★★★★
Lochleven Castle
This late 14th or early 15th-century tower was the setting for the most
traumatic year in the life of Mary Queen of Scots. It was here in 1567
that she was imprisoned and forced to abdicate before her dramatic
escape a year later. Located within a National Nature Reserve.
• On an island in Loch Leven reached by boat from Kinross
off the M90
• Postcode KY13 8UF
• Tel: 07778 040483 (Mobile)
• Open summer only, seven days a week, 9.30am to last outward
sailing at 4.30pm
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
• Boat trip included in admission price
★★★
Huntingtower Castle
Once known as The House of Ruthven, Huntingtower Castle
comprises two complete tower houses. The hall of the eastern tower
has a fine painted ceiling.
• Just west of Perth off the A85 to Crieff
• Postcode PH1 3JR
• Tel: 01738 627231
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 Concessions £3.20
★★★★
25
Perthshire, Kinross and Angus

Perthshire, Kinross and Angus

Edzell Castle and Garden Stanley Mills

St Serf’s Church and Dupplin Cross Elcho Castle

This picturesque parish church houses the 9th-century Dupplin Cross, Elcho Castle is a handsome and remarkably
a masterpiece of Pictish sculpture. complete 16th-century fortified mansion
• In Dunning Village on the B9141 from the A9 with three projecting towers.
• Postcode PH2 0RR • 5m NE of Bridge of Earn off the A912
• Tel: 01764 684497 and close to Rhynd
• Open summer only • Postcode PH2 8QQ
• Admission: Free, donations welcome • Tel: 01738 639998
★★★ • Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £3.20 Child £1.60 Concessions £2.70
★★★
Edzell Castle and Garden
The beauty of Edzell was a statement of the prestige of its owners,
the Lindsays. The stylised walled garden was created in 1604. NEW
Resplendent with heraldic sculptures and carved panels, the Stanley Mills
architectural framework surrounding the garden is unique in Britain. Stanley Mills is a unique complex of
• At Edzell 6m N of Brechin on the B966 water-powered cotton mills situated on
• Postcode DD9 7UE a majestic bend in the River Tay. Founded
• Tel: 01356 648631 over 200 years ago, the last commercial
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday operations ended as recently as 1989.
and Friday Stanley Mills opens to the public at Easter
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 2008. The new state of the art visitor centre
Concessions £3.70 has fantastic interactive displays to help
• Wheelchair available reveal the story of this extraordinary place
★★★★ from Scotland’s industrial past.
• 7.4m N of Perth off A9
• Postcode PH1 4QE
Meigle Sculptured Stone Museum • Tel: 01738 828268
The museum at Meigle displays 26 Pictish carved stones dating from • Open summer only
the late 8th to the late 10th centuries. Making up one of the most • Admission: Adults £5.00 Child £2.50
important collections of early medieval sculpture in Western Europe, Concessions £3.75
they are all that survives of a centre of Pictish wealth and patronage. • Ask about Stanley’s Club
• In Meigle 6m SE of Glamis off the A94
• Postcode PH12 8SB
• Tel: 01828 640612
• Open summer only. Other times by
prior arrangement
• Admission: Adult £3.20 Child £1.60
Concessions £2.70
★★★★ Did You Know?
Stanley Mills, near Perth, includes the best-preserved cotton
spinning mill directly linked to Richard Arkwright, father of the
factory system that helped start the industrial revolution.
26 27
North and Grampian

North and Grampian

Urquhart Castle
An atmospheric ruin overlooking the dark waters of Loch
Ness, this dramatic castle has a long and bloody history.
Once one of Scotland’s mightiest strongholds, Urquhart’s
strategic location gave it a key role in the Scottish battle
for independence. It came under the control of Robert
the Bruce before a 150-year power struggle between the
Stewart dynasty and the MacDonald Lords of the Isles.
Enjoying a Visit
Urquhart’s visitor centre provides a fascinating display of artefacts
plus an audiovisual presentation, available in six languages, which
tells the castle’s history.
Access
The visitor centre is fully accessible. Disability buggies are available
on request.
discover
Did you know... A Pictish nobleman was
christened on this site in the 6th century.
Visit...
• On Loch Ness near Drumnadrochit on the A82
• Postcode IV63 6XJ
• Tel: 01456 450551
• Open all year, seven days a week. 21 March - 30 September
9.30am to 6.00pm, 1 - 31 October 9.30am to 5pm,
1 November - 31 March 9.30am to 4.30pm. Last entry 45
minutes before closing
• Admission: Adult £6.50 Child £3.25 Concessions £5.00
Ask about ‘The Water Horse’ joint ticket.
★★★★★

Gifts & Refreshments

• Our café offers a great, wide-ranging menu including hot and
cold snacks, home baking and picnic packs
• The Urquhart Castle shop sells a selection of quality books,
souvenirs and gifts

Experience explore
• Views across Loch Ness and • The remains of the kitchens,
the Great Glen from the gatehouse and cellars which
castle’s Grant Tower provided refuge to families
under threat and siege
• The visitor centre, which tells
the fascinating story of this • The castle’s walls overlook
unique castle’s turbulent past some of the Highlands’
most stunning scenery
28 29
North and Grampian
Elgin Cathedral
Elgin Cathedral
One of Scotland’s most beautiful medieval
buildings, Elgin Cathedral is a magnificent ruin,
much of which dates back to the 13th century.
Its many outstanding architectural features
include the country’s finest octagonal chapter
house.
• In Elgin on the A96
• Postcode IV30 1HU
• Tel: 01343 547171
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
• Joint ticket with Spynie Palace available:
Adult £6.20 Child £3.10 Concessions £4.20
★★★★
Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery
The picturesque distillery of Dallas Dhu was
built in 1898 to produce malt whisky for
Glasgow firm Wright and Greig’s popular
‘Roderick Dhu’ blend.
Visitors to this unique time capsule can see
how whisky was made here, there is an
audio-visual presentation and free audio
tour. Visitors can sample a free dram.
• 1m S of Forres off the A940
• Postcode IV36 2RR
• Tel: 01309 676548
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday
and Friday
• Admission: Adult £5.20 Child £2.60
Concessions £4.20
★★★★
30
North and Grampian
Fort George
Fort George
Following the 1746 defeat at Culloden of
Bonnie Prince Charlie, George II created the
ultimate defence against further Jacobite
unrest. The result, Fort George, is the mightiest
artillery fortification in Britain, if not Europe.
Its garrison buildings, artillery defences
bristling with cannon, and a superb collection
of arms – including bayoneted muskets, pikes,
swords and ammunition pouches – provide a
fascinating insight into 18th-century military life.
Positioned strategically on a promontory jutting into the Moray Firth,
Fort George was intended as an impregnable army base – designed on
a monumental scale using sophisticated defence standards. Within
almost a mile of boundary walls was accommodation for a governor,
officers, artillery detachment, and a 1,600-strong infantry garrison.
Visitors today can see historic barrack rooms which are a time capsule
of the domestic life of the Scottish soldier.
Fort George is the only Ancient Monument in Scotland still
functioning as intended – a working army barracks – yet
welcoming visitors.
The Regimental Museum of the Queen’s Own Highlanders is here.
There is also a summer living history programme, free audio tour in
six languages, as well as a children’s trail. Visitors can also enjoy a shop
selling a wide range of gifts and a café.
• 6m W of Nairn, 11m NE of Inverness off the A96
• Postcode IV2 7TD
• Tel: 01667 460232
• Open all year. Last ticket sold 45 minutes before closing.
Café open limited hours in winter
• Admission: Adult £6.70 Child £3.35 Concessions £5.20
• Wheelchairs available
★★★★
31
North and Grampian

North and Grampian

Corgarff Castle Kinnaird Head Castle Lighthouse and Museum

Spynie Palace Balvenie Castle

For five centuries until 1686, Spynie Palace was the residence of the Originally the seat of the powerful Comyn
bishops of Moray. The mighty tower house was the largest in Scotland. earls of Buchan, Balvenie is a castle of
Superb views. enclosure with a massive curtain wall.
• 2m N of Elgin off the A941 • At Dufftown on the A941
• Postcode IV30 5QG • Postcode AB55 4DH
• Tel: 01343 546358 • Tel: 01340 820121
• Open all year. Winter: open weekends only • Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00 • Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00
• Joint ticket with Elgin Cathedral available: ★★★★
Adult £6.20 Child £3.10 Concessions £4.20
★★★★
Duff House
This magnificent Georgian mansion is now
Huntly Castle open as a Country House Gallery of the
Remarkable for its splendid architecture, Huntly Castle served as National Galleries of Scotland.
a baronial residence for five centuries. Many impressive features • In Banff
include fine heraldic sculpture and inscribed stone friezes. The earliest • Postcode AB45 3SX
stronghold on the site sheltered Robert the Bruce in the 14th century. • Tel: 01261 818181
• In Huntly on the A96 • Historic Scotland Members retail discount
• Postcode AB54 4SH not eligible
• Tel: 01466 793191 • Telephone for further details and 2008 admission prices
• Open all year. Winter: closed Thursday and Friday • Visit our website: www.duffhouse.com
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
★★★★
Kinnaird Head Castle
Corgarff Castle Lighthouse and Museum
In a barren moorland setting, Corgarff ’s medieval tower house, built Built for the Fraser family, this fine 16th-century
in the mid-16th century, is surrounded by a distinctive 18th-century castle was altered in 1787 to incorporate the
star shaped perimeter wall. first lighthouse built by the Commissioners of
• 8m W of Strathdon on the A939 the Northern Lighthouses.
• Postcode AB36 8YP • On a promontory in Fraserburgh on
• Tel: 01975 651460 the A92
• Open all year. Winter: open weekends only • Postcode AB43 9DU
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70 • Tel: 01346 511022
★★★★ • Historic Scotland Members retail discount
not eligible
• Open all year seven days a week. Telephone 01975 571331
Did You Know? for further details and 2008 admission prices, joint ticket with
A ballad called Edom o’ Gordon recalls how in 1571 Margaret Forbes Scotland’s National Lighthouse Museum
bravely held Corgarff Castle against her husband’s enemies. But the
attackers burned it down killing her and the servants.
32 33
North and Grampian

The Western Isles

Kildrummy Castle Calanais Standing Stones

Kildrummy Castle Calanais Standing Stones

The great castle of Kildrummy was the stronghold of the earls of Mar. A cross-shaped setting of standing stones erected around 3000 BC.
Although ruined, it remains a good example of a 13th-century castle Visitor centre at Calanais is managed by The Standing Stones Trust.
with many fine features. • 12m west of Stornoway off the A859, Isle of Lewis
• 10m SW of Alford on the A97 • Postcode HS2 9DY
• Postcode AB33 8RA • Tel: 01851 621422
• Tel: 01975 571331 • Historic Scotland Members retail discount not eligible
• Open summer only • Site open free all year, seven days a week. For details on the visitor
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00 centre go to www.calanaisvisitorcentre.co.uk
★★★★

Tolquhon Castle Kisimul Castle

Noted for its highly ornamented gatehouse, Tolquhon is one of the The only significant surviving medieval castle in the Western Isles,
most picturesque of the castles in the Grampian countryside. seat of the chiefs of Clan Macneil.
• 15m N of Aberdeen on the A920 • In Castlebay, Isle of Barra, reached by small boat from Castlebay
• Postcode AB41 7LP (5 min trip, weather permitting)
• Tel: 01651 851286 • Postcode HS9 5UZ
• Open all year. Winter: open weekends only • Tel: 01871 810313
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85 Concessions £3.00 • Open summer only
★★★ • Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
Admission includes boat trip

The Blackhouse, Arnol

A traditional, fully furnished, Lewis thatched house which provides
a unique insight into island life. There is also an attached barn, byre
and stackyard. Beside the blackhouse, a furnished 1920s house and a
ruined blackhouse can also be seen. Visitor centre with interpretative
displays and shop.
• In Arnol village, Isle of Lewis, 14m NW of Stornoway on the A858
• Postcode HS2 9DB
• Tel: 01851 710395
• Open all year except Sundays
• Admission: Adult £2.50 Child £1.25 Concessions £2.00
★★★★★

Did You Know?

Arnol Blackhouse, on Lewis – part of an ancient tradition of drystone
building – was inhabited up until 1966, the year the Rolling Stones
Kisimul Castle reached number one with Paint it Black.
34 35
 Orkney
Orkney
The distinctive landscape of Orkney is home to a wealth
of attractions which stand as constant reminders of the
incredible history of the islands off Scotland’s north
coast.
Over the past 5,000 years many cultures have left their
mark, including the Vikings who took the islands in the
ninth century and made them the centre of a powerful
earldom and part of the kingdom of Norway.
Today the breathtaking Orkney scenery is brought to
life by a number of famous sites including Skara Brae,
a prehistoric village older than the pyramids, and the
Maeshowe chambered tomb. Both are in the Heart of
Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site – highlighting them
as among the most significant historic attractions in the
world. A Ranger service helps visitors enjoy and
understand these sites.
There are also buildings from more recent times,
like Hackness Martello Tower and Battery.
36
Orkney
Maeshowe Chambered Cairn
Maeshowe Chambered Cairn
Dating back more than 5,000 years, this fine
chambered tomb is a prominent feature in
the landscape near the lochs of Harray and
Stenness. Said to be the finest Neolithic
building in Europe, the tomb is famously
aligned with the setting of the winter sun,
and contains an exceptional collection of
later Norse runic inscriptions, as well as
neolithic carvings.
Access is by guided tour only, with timed
ticketing in operation. You must telephone
to book. Car parking and tickets are available
from the nearby Tormiston Mill.
• 9m W of Kirkwall on the A965
• Postcode KW15 1BL
• Tel: 01856 761606
• Open all year
• Booking in advance is required
• Admissions: Adult £5.20 Child £2.60
Concessions £4.20
★★★★
Maeshowe Runes
Courtesy of VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint
37
Orkney

Orkney
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village Brough of Birsay

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village Brough of Birsay

The neolithic settlement of Skara Brae, near
the dramatic white beach of the Bay of Skaill,
is one of the best preserved groups of
prehistoric houses in Western Europe.
Uncovered by a storm in 1850, the attraction
presents a remarkable picture of life around
5,000 years ago.
Visitors can experience a prehistoric village
and see ancient homes fitted with stone beds,
dressers and seats. A replica construction
allows visitors to fully understand the interior
of a prehistoric house. An informative visitor
centre provides touch-screen presentations,
fact-finding quizzes for children and adults,
and an opportunity to see artefacts discovered
during archaeological excavations in the 1970s.
There is a café and gift shop selling a range of
locally made products.
Part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.
• Joint ticket with Skaill House available from April - September
• 19m NW of Kirkwall on the B9056
• Postcode KW16 3LR
• Tel: 01856 841815
• Open all year. Café may have restricted opening hours in winter
• Last admission 45 minutes before closing
• Wheelchairs available
• Admission: (Summer) Adult £6.70 Child £3.35 Concessions
£5.20 (Winter: Skara Brae only) Adult £5.70 Child £2.85
Concessions £4.70
★★★★★
The remains of a busy complex of Pictish, Norse and later settlement
around scenic Birsay Bay. A small visitor centre on the island contains
some important early sculptures and interesting Viking artefacts.
• On a tidal island at Birsay, 20m NW of Kirkwall off the A966.
Check tide tables at Skara Brae
• Postcode KW17 2NH
• Tel: 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
• Open when tides allow mid-June - 30 September, daily 9.30am
to 5.30pm
• Admission: Adult £3.20 Child £1.60 Concessions £2.70
The Bishop’s Palace and Earl’s Palace,
Kirkwall
Located near the spectacular St Magnus Cathedral, these palaces are
regarded as two of the finest examples of architecture in Scotland and
highlight Orkney’s close Norse and ecclesiastical links. A particular
attraction is the magnificent monumental fireplace in the great hall of
the Earl’s Palace, built about 1600.
• In Kirkwall on the A960
• Postcode KW15 1PD
• Tel: 01856 871918
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £3.70 Child £1.85
Concessions £3.00
★★★★

Did You Know?

In 1263 the great Norse king Hakon fell sick and died at the Bishop’s
Palace, on Orkney, following his defeat by the Scots at Largs.

38 39
Orkney

Shetland
Hackness Martello Tower and Battery Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement

Hackness Martello Tower and Battery Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse

Part of the extensive military remains on the island of Hoy, the battery Settlement
and Martello tower were built between 1813 and 1815 to provide Jarlshof provides an insight into the way of life of the inhabitants at
defence for British convoys against French and American privateers. particularly interesting periods – the late Bronze Age, Iron Age, Pictish
Evidence of life at the barracks can be viewed on site, including era, Norse era and Middle Ages. It includes oval-shaped Bronze-Age
examples of barrack room furniture and other military memorabilia. houses, Iron-Age broch and wheelhouses, Viking long houses,
• At the SE end of Hoy medieval farmstead and a 16th-century laird’s house. Free audio
• Postcode KW16 3PQ tours are available and visitors can enjoy a gift shop and display on
• Tel: 01856 701727 the history of the site.
• Open summer only • At Sumburgh Head, 22m S of Lerwick on the A970
• Admission: Adult £4.20 Child £2.10 • Postcode ZE3 9JN
Concessions £3.20 • Tel: 01950 460112
• When visiting please make your way to • Open summer only
the Battery first • Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
• Toilet at local hotel by arrangement
★★★★
Broch of Gurness
A noted icon of Orkney’s rich archaeological heritage, the broch is
one of the most outstanding surviving examples of a later prehistoric
(Iron-Age) settlement that is unique to Scotland.
• At Aikerness, 14m NW of Kirkwall on the A966
• Postcode KW17 2NH
• Tel: 01856 751414
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.70 Child £2.35 Concessions £3.70
★★★★

Did You Know?

Three painted stones found at Jarlshof prehistoric settlement,
in Shetland, are believed to have been used by Pictish inhabitants
to ward off evil or treat sickness.
40 41
 Opening Times
General Information
Summer
(21 March - 30 September)
Our properties are open seven days
a week, Monday to Sunday from
9.30am to 5.30pm.
(1 - 31 October) Seven days a week
from 9.30am to 4.30pm.
Some properties have special
opening times shown against
their entry.
Winter
(1 November - 31 March)
Some of our properties close.
For our other properties, normal
opening times are 9.30am to
4.30pm unless stated otherwise
on the entry. All our properties
close on Christmas Day and Boxing
Day. Please telephone to check for
New Year opening.
We sell the last ticket 30 minutes
before the property closes and 45
minutes before closing at the larger
properties of Edinburgh, as well as
Stirling and Urquhart castles, Fort
George, Skara Brae, Dumbarton
Castle and Linlithgow Palace.
Some of the smaller monuments
may close for a short period over
lunch. Please telephone to check.
To check the property you wish to
visit is open, telephone the number
shown against the entry or call our
visitor information service on
0131 668 8800.
Properties that are run by
organisations in partnership with
Historic Scotland may not offer
Members of Historic Scotland retail
discounts or accept Euro notes.
Admission Prices are for the period
1 April 2008 – 31 March 2009.
Prices may vary for major events.
There is no concession rate for
students. The concession rate
applies to visitors aged 60 and over
and the unemployed. Children
under five admitted free.
Children Under 16 must be
accompanied by an adult.
Quality Assurance: Visitor facilities
at Historic Scotland properties are
inspected by VisitScotland and
graded on a five-star scale.
Properties are also assessed
under the Green Tourism Business
Scheme which rewards care for the
environment with a Bronze, Silver
or Gold award.
Ness of Burgi
42 For more information visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Large Print Guide and
General Information
Access Guide: Call Historic
Scotland, Longmore House,
0131 668 8800 to request a copy.
Bicycle: Call the SUSTRANS
information line, 0845 11 30 065
or go to www.sustrans.org.uk
World Heritage Sites:
These feature a UNESCO logo.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are permitted
at some, but not all, properties.
Please call in advance to check.
Public Transport Information:
Call Travel Line Scotland on
0870 608 2608.
On-line shop: Tickets, passes
and membership to all Historic
Scotland properties and a wide
range of products, including
guidebooks and souvenirs, can be
ordered on-line at www.historic-
scotland.gov.uk/shop
Key to symbols
Car Parking
Bus Parking
Toilets
Display on History
Visitor Centre
Restaurant/Café
Shop
Reasonable Wheelchair Access
Disabled Toilets
Picnic Area
Self Service Tea/Coffee
Bicycle Rack
Strong Footwear
Recommended
Dogs not Permitted
★ VisitScotland Grading
Gold Green Tourism Award
Silver Green Tourism Award
Bronze Green Tourism Award
Euro notes accepted by
properties managed by
Historic Scotland.
43
Map
Ref:
1 Aberdour Castle & Garden – p. 24
2 Arbroath Abbey – p. 25
3 Argyll’s Lodging – p. 17
4 Balvenie Castle – p. 33
5 Bishop’s & Earl’s Palaces, Kirkwall – p. 39
6 Blackhouse, Arnol – p. 35
7 Blackness Castle – p. 7
8 Bonawe Historic Iron Furnace – p. 17
9 Bothwell Castle – p. 14
10 Brough of Birsay – p. 39
11 Broch of Gurness – p. 40
12 Caerlaverock Castle – p. 11
13 Cairnpapple Hill – p. 7
14 Calanais Standing Stones & Visitor Centre – p. 35
15 Cardoness Castle – p. 13
16 Castle Campbell & Gardens – p. 17
17 Corgarff Castle – p. 32
18 Craigmillar Castle – p. 6
19 Craignethan Castle – p. 16
20 Crichton Castle – p. 6
21 Crossraguel Abbey – p. 14
22 Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery – p. 30
23 Dirleton Castle & Gardens – p. 8
24 Doune Castle – p. 20
25 Dryburgh Abbey – p. 10
26 Duff House – p. 33
27 Dumbarton Castle – p. 15
28 Dunblane Cathedral – p. 21
29 Dundonald Castle – p. 16
30 Dundrennan Abbey – p. 11
31 Dunfermline Abbey & Palace – p. 24
32 Dunstaffnage Castle & Chapel – p. 20
33 Edinburgh Castle – p. 4
34 Edzell Castle & Garden – p. 26
35 Elcho Castle – p. 27
36 Elgin Cathedral – p. 30
37 Fort George – p. 31
38 Glasgow Cathedral – p. 14
39 Glenluce Abbey – p. 13
40 Hackness Martello Tower & Battery – p. 40
41 Hermitage Castle – p. 9
42 Huntingtower Castle – p. 25
43 Huntly Castle – p. 32
44 Inchcolm Abbey & Island – p. 24
45 Inchmahome Priory – p. 21
46 Iona Abbey & Nunnery – p. 22
47 Jarlshof Prehistoric & Norse Settlement – p. 41
48 Jedburgh Abbey – p. 10
49 Kildrummy Castle – p. 34
50 Kinnaird Head Castle Lighthouse & Museum – p. 33
51 Kisimul Castle – p. 35
52 Linlithgow Palace – p. 7
53 Lochleven Castle – p. 25
54 MacLellan’s Castle – p. 12
55 Maeshowe – p. 37
56 Meigle Sculptured Stones – p. 26
57 Melrose Abbey – p. 9
58 New Abbey Corn Mill – p. 12
59 Newark Castle – p. 15
60 Rothesay Castle – p. 15
61 Rowallan Castle – p. 16
62 St Andrews Castle – p. 23
63 St Andrews Cathedral – p. 23
64 St Serf’s Church & Dupplin Cross – p. 26
65 Seton Collegiate Church – p. 8
66 Skara Brae & Skaill House – p. 38
67 Smailholm Tower – p. 9
68 Spynie Palace – p. 32
69 Stanley Mills – p. 27
70 Stirling Castle – p. 18
71 Sweetheart Abbey – p. 12
72 Tantallon Castle – p. 8
73 Threave Castle – p. 11
74 Tolquhon Castle – p. 34
75 Trinity House Maritime Museum – p. 6
76 Urquhart Castle – p. 28
77 Whithorn Priory & Museum – p. 13