If you’re looking to holiday a little closer to home for your first trip when we’re able to travel again, a UK staycation in Scotland could be the answer. You can sail from Northern Ireland to Scotland in just 2 hours via our Larne to Cairnryan route, which means that you can be exploring Scotland in no time.
Scotland truly has something for everyone, from history lovers to wildlife fans, so you’re guaranteed to find lots to do when you visit this diverse country. Here, we share five reasons to spend your UK staycation in Scotland to inspire your next trip.
1. There are castles around every corner
Thanks to its rich heritage, Scotland has plenty of history to share with its visitors and exploring some of its impressive castles offers an exciting insight into the country’s past. Scotland’s most famous castle has to be Edinburgh Castle. Sat above the capital city, this castle was named as the British Travel Award’s top UK heritage attraction and is Scotland’s number one paid for tourist attraction. Home to the country’s Crown Jewels and the National War Museum of Scotland, there’s certainly plenty to see during a visit, and you can choose to take a guided or audio tour to learn everything you need to know.
Another popular castle in Scotland in Balmoral. Located in Aberdeenshire, Balmoral is still a private home of the Royal Family but there are some areas you can visit when they’re not in residence. A one hour guided tour will take you to the Ballroom which is the only room open to guests. Here, you’ll be able to see items taken from other areas of the castle which will give you a glimpse into the lives of the Royal Family themselves. Once you’ve finished your tour you are free to explore the grounds and gardens at your leisure.
If you’re interested in the history of the Stewarts, a trip to Stirling Castle is a must. A favourite residence of Stewart kings and queens, this castle is a great choice for family outings thanks to the activities on offer. Costumed characters bring the castle to life and children can take part in everything from dressing up in traditional outfits to trying out medieval instruments. Stirling Castle really brings history to life and is sure to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
2. You can step into your favourite films and TV shows
Its gorgeous landscapes and impressive buildings have made Scotland a top choice for film and TV show creators, and you may be surprised to learn about just how many filming locations there are in Scotland. Fans of Outlander will be in their element during a UK staycation in Scotland as the country is littered with filming locations from this hit TV show. Visit Jamie Fraser’s home of Lallybroch (Midhope Castle), see Linlithgow Palace where a number of the series’ Wentworth Prison scenes were shot, and wander through Falkland which plays the role of Inverness in the show. Find out more about Outlander filming locations in Scotland before you plan your trip.
If you love 007 you’ll be delighted to find a number of James Bond filming locations in Scotland too. Featuring in more than one of the popular spy films, Scotland certainly provides dramatic landscapes for equally dramatic plots. Visit Glen Coe which set the backdrop for a number of Skyfall scenes, see Gare Loch which made a memorable appearance in The Spy Who Loved Me, and take a look at Eilean Donan Castle – the Scottish headquarters of MI6 in The World is Not Enough.
There’s something for Harry Potter fans in Scotland too, and you can even jump aboard the Hogwarts Express. The Jacobite Steam Train travels between Fort William and Mallaig and from it you’ll be able to see the stunning landscapes featured in every Harry Potter film. Read the books but haven’t seen the films? A day in Edinburgh is perfect for you as the city provided plenty of inspiration for J.K. Rowling when she was planning the books. With winding cobbled streets and plenty of hidden delights, it’s no surprise that she saw Edinburgh as being truly magical. Discover more about Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland.
3. You’ll be captivated by the wildlife
Scotland’s diverse landscapes are home to a whole variety of different species, so if you love spotting wildlife you’ll be in your element. The species you see will depend on what time of year you visit, but no matter when you choose to take your UK staycation in Scotland there will be plenty for you to look out for. For example, during the spring and summer you can see puffins as this in when they come to land to breed. Puffins create colonies along the west coast of Scotland and there are tours you can take if you’re interested in seeing them up close and getting some great photos.
Whales and dolphins are also often seen off the coast of Scotland during the warmer months. It’s far more likely that you’ll see a dolphin than a whale, but there are whale watching boat tours available which can help you to find them if they’re in the area. Minke whales are the species that frequent Scottish waters, and both common and bottlenose dolphins can be spotted too. If it’s marine wildlife you’re interested in, you can be sure that you’ll be able to seek out some seals. Common seals and sometimes grey seals can be seen throughout the year, and if you ask around you might be able to find a local beach or cluster of rocks where they relax in the sun.
If you’re not going to be based near the coast, there are plenty of amazing animals to spot inland too. From iconic highland cows to herds of red deer, you don’t need to go far to spot incredible wildlife in Scotland. Rather than looking for creatures in the wild you might prefer to go to an animal park instead. There are a number of different places you can visit which are run with conservation in mind, such as Edinburgh Zoo, and have additional activities and features which will appeal to children too.
4. The foodie scene is amazing
From freshly caught seafood to home grown produce, Scotland is an absolute wonderland for those looking for a foodie staycation in the UK. There are loads of restaurants to choose from and you’re sure to find one that suits your tastes and dietary needs. From Michelin star eateries to vegan food experiences, Scotland has something for everyone. If you’d prefer to cook for yourself during your break, head to one of many farmer’s markets for fresh, local ingredients that are guaranteed to produce a delicious meal.
Some typical Scottish foods you might like to try are haggis, black pudding, and even porridge! As Scotland’s national food it only right that you try haggis while you’re there – unless you’re a vegetarian or vegan of course! A combination of meat, oatmeal, onion, and seasoning, haggis is traditionally eaten with neeps & tatties (turnips and potatoes). When it comes to porridge, this breakfast staple definitely can’t be considered boring when you have it in Scotland. In fact, VisitScotland have a porridge itinerary dedicated to this hearty meal which shares the best places in Scotland to get yours.
Scotland is famous for its whisky which simply must be tried during your staycation. Boasting over 120 active whisky distilleries, Scottish whiskies have different flavours depending on which region they’re produced in, so there are certainly plenty to try. Popular whisky distilleries in Scotland include Glengoyne, a pretty distillery where you can taste Glengoyne Highland Single Malt whiskies, and Balblair Distillery – one of the oldest distilleries in the world. Don’t drink? Learning about the whisky making process can be just as interesting as trying it for yourself!
5. You can hike for days
Scotland is packed full of walking trails, so no matter where you’re staying there’s sure to be a great hiking opportunity or two nearby. There’s no better way to admire Scotland’s impressive scenery than by foot, and by pulling on your walking boots and waterproof jacket you can experience the dramatic landscapes for yourself. There’s something for everyone and you can choose walks that will take you along coastal paths, around lochs and mountains, or along routes that have historical significance.
Popular walks in Scotland include those that take place around picturesque bodies of water, such as Loch Lomond National Park which is home to Britain’s largest freshwater lake. This area boasts walking options for all abilities, making it ideal for serious walkers and families alike – just make sure you choose the right trail for you. If you’re staying in Edinburgh, you might like to tackle Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano offering unrivalled views across the city.
Of course, a UK staycation in Scotland comes with the chance to scale Ben Nevis – the UK’s highest mountain. This is a challenge for serious hikers rather than those looking for a leisurely stroll, and if you are prepared to take on the mountain it’s an opportunity not to be missed. There is a path called the ‘Mountain Track’ which offers a straightforward route up the mountain, but this doesn’t mean that’s it’s an easy option and still presents a tough and strenuous climb. Once you reach the summit of Ben Nevis you’ll be amazed by the views which stretch for miles across the Highlands – so don’t forget your camera!
Top accommodation picks for your Scotland staycation
There are loads of great accommodation options for your Scotland staycation. If you’re hoping to explore the delights that Edinburgh has to offer, consider a stay at the highly-rated Apex Grassmarket Hotel. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from popular Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle, this hotel has a range of excellent facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi.
Those with Ben Nevis on their radar will love the Wilderness Apartments in Fort William. Boasting an exceptional rating on Booking.com, the Wilderness Apartments are less than 9km from Ben Nevis and have a private beach for guests to enjoy, plus all of the facilities you need to make yourself at home during your stay.
No matter where you’d like to stay, there are plenty of fantastic accommodation options for your UK staycation in Scotland – book your favourite today!
Now that you’ve read our five reasons to spend your UK staycation in Scotland, book your Larne to Cairnryan ferry and start planning your next adventure.
