members` handbook - Historic Scotland Membership

Transcription

members` handbook - Historic Scotland Membership
members’
handbook
Enjoy great days out,
all year round
regional map | 3
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places
Region
welcome
to the Historic Scotland
Members’ Handbook.
We very much welcome feedback from
our members so please feel free to contact
us at any time. Take a look at some of the
comments we’ve received:
This handbook is your guide to the wealth
‘Staff on site could not have
of great historic places just waiting to be
been friendlier or more helpful.’
explored. And why not make the most of
your membership? You are cordially invited
‘This is our first year as Historic
to our fantastic events programme – from
Scotland members and we
jousting to re-enactments, our fun-packed
have enjoyed all the visits so
daytime events offer something for everyone. much. Looking forward to next
Moray Firth
Inverness
Aberdeen
MULL
Dundee
Perth
Oban
ISLAY
Glasgow
Edinburgh
Melrose
Cly
de
th
of
Ayr
Fir
The Membership Team,
Historic Scotland,
Longmore House, Salisbury Place,
Edinburgh EH9 1SH
Telephone: 0131 668 8999
Email: [email protected]
St Andrews
Firth of Forth
Stirling
ura
‘Overall I think your (membership)
passes are tremendous value
for money.’
ORKNEY
Stornoway
of J
Cover
Fort George
www.lwinram.com
Lerwick
LEWIS
year’s events.’
‘I have found the staff helpful,
pleasant and courteous. I have
happily renewed my membership
for another year and look forward
to visiting (and revisiting) more
properties next year.’
SHETLAND
Kirkwall
Sou
Make 2015 the year you get out and about
to our attractions, where you’ll find a host
of exciting children’s quizzes, engaging
interpretive displays and opportunities to
sample the best of Scotland’s larder to mark
the Year of Food and Drink.
Edinburgh and the Lothians12-21
The Scottish Borders22-25
Dumfries and Galloway26-31
Glasgow, Clyde and Ayrshire32-39
Central and West40-51
The Kingdom of Fife52-55
Perthshire, Kinross and Angus56-63
North and Grampian64-75
The Western Isles76-77
Orkney78-85
Shetland86-87
nd
Thank you for being a Historic Scotland
member. We look forward to welcoming
you at our colourful landscape of castles,
palaces, abbeys and much more
across Scotland.
Page
Dumfries
Stranraer
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For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
membership
benefits
Making it easy for you to explore Scotland’s history.
your passport
to great days
out, all year
round.
free entry
quarterly members’ magazine
20% discount on audio guides
your membership card
Show your valid membership card for free entry
to all staffed Historic Scotland attractions.
Keeps you informed with features on history, heritage,
conservation and places to visit. The magazine will also
keep you up to date with events throughout the year.
Available at Edinburgh Castle on production of a valid
membership card.
Simply sign your card(s) to validate, and be aware
of the following conditions
life members –
additional benefits
• C
ard must be shown on entry at staffed properties
and at the till before making any purchases
• Anyone without a valid card will be charged normal
prices, which are non-refundable
• For joint memberships, each adult member must
show their card for entry and other benefits
• For membership categories including children,
each card admits one adult/concession plus 6
children aged 5-15 years
• Cards only valid for the member named on card
• Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied
by an adult
• You may be asked to provide proof of identification
for entrance
• Membership is a consumer product and cannot
be used for commercial purposes
• If you lose your card, call 0131 668 8999 or email
us at [email protected] and we
will send you a replacement
• Please let us know if you change address and we
can keep your membership record up to date.
historic scotland events
Members get free entry to over 400 Historic Scotland
daytime events, which form an exciting year-round
programme. See page 7 for more details.
20% retail discount
10% café discount
Members enjoy an exclusive discount at all Historic
Scotland cafés. Simply show your membership
and get money off our scrumptious sandwiches,
light meals, homemade cakes and hot and cold drinks.
Save money in Historic Scotland shops at our attractions.
The discount does not apply to certain products
including alcohol, phone cards, stamps, discounted
items, promotions, single use bags and Hamilton
& Inches products at Edinburgh Castle.
Please note some of our smaller cafés may not accept
credit/debit cards. Call before visiting.
• T
he discount does not apply at Broughty Castle, Calanais,
Dundonald Castle, Kinnaird Head Castle Lighthouse, Skaill
House, Torphichen Preceptory or The Whithorn Story
Historic Scotland membership makes a great gift
for Christmas, birthdays or any special occasion.
For more details see page 9, visit
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member or call
0131 668 8999.
Fort George – Celebration of the Centuries
20% discount on annual gift
membership
Each life member can take 2 adults or up to
6 accompanying children (aged 5-15 years) or a
combination of 1 adult and up to 3 accompanying
children as guests to Historic Scotland attractions
free of charge.
Life members get free entry to English Heritage,
Cadw and Manx National Heritage sites immediately
on joining. At English Heritage and Cadw sites,
the guest allowance is 1 adult or 6 children.
At Manx National Heritage sites the allowance
is for 6 accompanying children.
Note.
Historic Scotland reserves the right to vary the terms and conditions and
benefits of membership at any time. Any changes will be notified in your
quarterly magazine. Visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
to view our full terms and conditions.
Stirling Castle
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For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
take your
membership
further
free entry for
renewal or
life members
Enjoy discounted entry to partner attractions.
Half price entry for new annual members.
Take your membership card on holiday with
you and enjoy discounted entry to English
Heritage, CADW and Manx National Heritage
attractions. Renewal and life members can
enjoy free entry while new annual members
get in for half price.
english heritage
cadw
manx national heritage
www.english-heritage.org.uk/membership
www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
www.manxnationalheritage.im
Customer Services Department
PO Box 569, Swindon SN2 2YP
Plas Carew, Unit5/7 Cefn Coed
Parc Nantgarw, Cardiff CF15 7QQ
Manx National Heritage, Kingswood Grove,
Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 3LY
Telephone 0370 3331181
Telephone 01443 336000
Telephone 01624 648000
From great family day trips with the children to
inspirational visits for the real history buff, days out
with English Heritage will stay with you long after
you’ve visited. With over 400 historic properties
to visit including abbeys, castles, ruins, stately homes
and palaces, there’s something for everyone.
Cadw is the Welsh Government historic environment
service, working for an accessible, well protected
historic environment. Cadw’s aims are to conserve
Wales’s heritage to the highest standard, to sustain
the distinctive character of Wales’ landscapes and
towns, to help people understand and care about
place and history, and to make a real difference
to people’s wellbeing.
The Isle of Man is ideal for a peaceful short break.
The island’s national heritage sites operated by Manx
National Heritage range from Viking ruins to medieval
castles and the world’s largest working waterwheel.
Properties include:
- Stonehenge (timed ticketing applies)
- Dover Castle
- Audley End House and Gardens
- Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens
- Lindisfarne Priory
- Kenilworth Castle
and Elizabethan Garden
- Carlisle Castle
- Hadrian’s Wall
plus hundreds more...
More great days out
Over 129 sites including:
- Caernarfon Castle
- Conwy Castle
- Beaumaris Castle
- Harlech Castle
(World Heritage sites)
- Blaenavon Ironworks
(World Heritage
landscape)
Stonehenge
Caernarfon Castle
- Castell Coch
- Caerphilly Castle
- Tintern Abbey
- Strata Florida
- Raglan Castle
Historic sites include:
- The Laxey Wheel
- Castle Rushen
- Manx Museum
- Grove Museum of Victorian Life
- Peel Castle
- House of Manannan
- Cregneash Folk Museum
- Nautical Museum
- The Old House of Keys
- Rushen Abbey
- The Old Grammar School
- The Sound, Calf of Man
and Niarbyl Bay
Admission concessions are available for members only on presentation
of a valid membership card.
Laxey Wheel, Isle of Man
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For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/events
discounted
entry for
members
step back in
time at one of
our events
to other visitor attractions.
Hear great tales of mystery and intrigue.
The following visitor attractions offer
discounted entry to members. To qualify for
the discount simply show your membership
card on entry. Please note that Life Member
guest allowances do not apply at these
sites. Discounts are valid from 1 April 2015
- 31 March 2016. For opening times and
further information please contact the
organisation direct.
palace of holyroodhouse
& the queen’s gallery
Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh
Telephone 0131 556 5100
Her Majesty The Queen’s official residence in Scotland
and the purpose-built gallery with state of the art facilities.
Visit the 17th century royal apartments, Mary Queen
of Scots’ chambers, the ruins of the Abbey and delicate
works of art from the Royal Collection.
20% discount on all entrance categories.
Duff House
national mining museum
scotland
Lady Victoria Colliery, Newtongrange
Telephone 0131 663 7519
This A-listed complex is recognised as one of the finest
surviving examples of a Victorian colliery in Europe.
Now a five-star visitor attraction, the museum tells
the story of coal for Scotland through guided and/or
self-guided tours, exhibitions, recreated underground
roadway and coalface and Big Stuff – Massive Mining
Machinery tour.
2 for 1 on admission.
events all over scotland
2015 highlights
See knights jousting, hear the crack of muskets
and discover how people lived in the past.
•The Queen’s Feast, Stirling Castle
23 & 24 May
Enjoy an exciting programme of hundreds of events,
taking place across the country at castles, palaces and
other fantastic attractions.
•Spectacular Jousting at Linlithgow Palace
4 & 5 July
There will also be opportunities to sample the best
of Scotland’s larder at many of our events to mark
the Year of Food and Drink 2015.
To receive the members’ monthly events email,
please register for the members only website at
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
dumfries house
Cumnock, Ayrshire
Telephone 01290 425959
This grand property situated within 2,000 acres of
scenic Ayrshire countryside is widely acknowledged
as one of the most architecturally-significant stately
homes within the UK.
25% discount on the House tour.
Linlithgow Palace – Spectacular Jousting
• Celebration of the Centuries at Fort George
8 & 9 August
Members get free entry to over 400 daytime events.
Pick up an Events Guide at any Historic Scotland
attraction. Check out your quarterly magazine for
events in your area or visit www.historic-scotland.
gov.uk/events for more information.
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For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/greentourism
caring for our
environment
looking
for a gift?
A commitment to sustainability
and green issues.
Give friends or family
a Historic Scotland membership.
quality assurance
transport
gift membership
member get member
Visitor facilities at Historic Scotland staffed properties
are assessed by VisitScotland and graded on a five
star scale.
We encourage the use of public transport for trips to
Historic Scotland’s sites, please consider alternative
means of transport when planning your visit. Sites which
are accessible by public transport are indicated by
symbol:
Membership makes a great gift for Christmas, birthdays,
retirement or any special occasion. A special gift pack
can be sent directly to you or we can send your gift to
the recipient complete with your personal message.
Spread the word about how great Historic Scotland
membership is.
green tourism
Historic Scotland is committed to protecting the
historic and natural environment. Many of our
properties in care are assessed in sustainability through
the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Look out for the
symbol beside the properties.
Some of the main elements considered within the
scheme include transport, bicycle use and recycling
and waste.
See www.green-business.co.uk
For more information about transport providers visit:
www.travelinescotland.com or follow the link on
our website.
For local transport information, please telephone the
site and our staff will do their best to help.
bicycle
Call the SUSTRANS information line, 0845 11 30 065
or go to www.sustrans.org.uk
Existing members get a 20% discount on all new annual
memberships purchased as a gift.
To order your gift visit our website www.historicscotland.gov.uk/member or call us on 0131 668 8999.
Make sure you are registered and logged into our
website to get your 20% discount.
Please note gift memberships are not available
at our properties. Terms and conditions apply,
see our website for details.
recycling/waste
All goods are recycled where possible at Historic
Scotland’s sites. Please be considerate to the
environment when visiting our sites and recycle
any rubbish you may have at the closest facilities.
Please ask site staff about this.
Fort George
Stirling Castle
Introduce family and friends to Historic Scotland and
they will get 20% off a new annual membership. You will
also be entered into a monthly prize draw for a year’s
free membership.
New members can join at any staffed Historic Scotland
property if you are there to show your membership card.
Or they can call us on 0131 668 8999 quoting your
name and membership number.
Terms and conditions apply, see our website for details.
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For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
using this
guide
areas
opening times
car parking
dogs
Scotland has been divided into areas ranging from the
Scottish Borders in the south to Shetland in the north.
See the map on page 1. A full alphabetical index of all
sites can be found on pages 90-93.
Summer (1 April 2015-30 September 2015)
Monday - Sunday 9.30am to 5.30pm
Car parking is free to customers at most sites for the
length of your visit. Please note parking is for individual
use when visiting the site.
Each property in this guide has been allocated a unique
map reference number. You can view the regional maps
at the start of each section for more information about
specific property locations.
These are general times and some properties have
special opening times shown against their entry.
Dogs on leads are permitted at some but not all
properties. Sites where dogs are not permitted are
indicated by the symbol below. Dogs must be kept
on a lead and should not be left unattended
(including in vehicles on site). Where dogs are allowed,
they are not permitted into roofed areas such as gift
shops, cafés, some castles or visitor centres. If you are
unsure of access, please phone the site in advance
of your visit.
world heritage sites
Properties with World Heritage recognition feature a
UNESCO logo. The Ranger Service for the Orkney WHS
can be reached on 01856 841732.
road directions
Directions to all sites are included. We include postcodes
for our staffed sites or Ordnance Survey grid references
for those without postcodes. These will enable you
to locate sites using either web-based route-finder sites
or Ordnance Survey maps.
Winter (1 October 2015-24 March 2016)
Monday - Sunday 10am to 4pm
Last entry 30 minutes before closing, except at
Stirling, Urquhart and Dumbarton castles, Fort George,
Skara Brae and Linlithgow Palace where it is 45 minutes
before closing. At Edinburgh Castle and Stanley Mills,
last entry is 1 hour before closing.
• All properties are closed on 25th and 26th December.
• All properties are closed on 1st and 2nd January with
the exception of Edinburgh, Stirling & Urquhart castles
which will remain open. Please call for opening hours
or check online.
• Some of our sites may close for a short period
over lunch. This will be marked next to their entry
in the handbook.
Properties run by organisations in partnership with
Historic Scotland may not offer members of Historic
Scotland retail discounts or accept Euro notes.
Alternatively visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/satnav
to upload our sites to your SatNav system (compatible
with TomTom, Navman & Garmin).
admission prices
safety
There is no concession rate for students. The concession
rate applies to over 60s, and visitors receiving state
benefits. We offer 10% discount for Young Scot/Euro 26
card holders. Children under the age of 16 must
be accompanied by an adult. Children under 5
admitted free.
Visiting some sites can involve a fair amount of
walking over uneven ground. Sensible footwear is
recommended. Watch out for wet grass on sloping
banks and wet wooden footbridges.
Some of our rural sites are located in farmland and may
include access through areas with livestock.
Valid between 1 April 2015 - 24 March 2016.
Prices may vary for major events.
Opening times and admission prices are correct at
the time of publication, but may be liable to change.
•Parking is not available at Edinburgh Castle.
We do provide limited parking for drivers with
a Blue Disabled Badge. Please contact the site
prior to your visit.
• £2 charge applies to car parking at Stirling Castle
from April to September, parking from October
to March is free for members, just show your
membership card to our car park staff on arrival.
For disabled parking, please telephone the site.
•Charges are also made at Holyrood Park and Melrose
Abbey. Members are not exempt from this charge.
visitors with disabilities
This symbol indicates that visitors in wheelchairs
can enjoy a reasonable amount of the property.
This symbol indicates where there are toilets
suitable for wheelchair users.
Hearing induction loops are available at most sites.
Other special facilities for people with a disability
are indicated in the site descriptions.
Assistance dogs are permitted at all sites and are
permitted in all parts of the site.
data protection
All information that we hold concerning you as
an individual will be held and processed by Historic
Scotland strictly in accordance with the provisions
of the Data Protection Act 1998.
Such data will be used by Historic Scotland to
administer our relationship with you as a valued
customer and to provide you with information about
our activities and for related purposes. We will not
supply your name and address to any third party
except where (1) such transfer is a necessary part
of the activities that we undertake, or (2) we are
required to do so by operation of law.
As an individual, you have the right under the
Data Protection Act 1998 to obtain information
from us, including a description of the data that
we hold on you.
edinburgh and the lothians | 15
Blackness Castle
edinburgh
and the
lothians
1
Cairnpapple Hill
blackness castle
3
Step inside a largely intact medieval castle whose
doughty defences once guarded the Firth of Forth.
Known as ‘The Ship that Never Sailed’ for its boat-like
shape, Blackness Castle was built in the 1400s for Sir
George Crichton, Admiral of Scotland.
The castle walls contain clues to its many guises: besieged
coastal stronghold, jail for political prisoners and Victorian
ammunitions depot. Outside, you can picnic in its grounds,
enjoy remarkable views and explore the rocky foreshore.
• 4m NE of Linlithgow on the Firth of Forth,
off the A904 • NT 055 803
• Postcode EH49 7NH • Telephone 01506 834807
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
North
Berwick
8
1
Linlithgow
18
South
Queensferry
26
14
12
25
Bathgate
11
5
2
22
Cockenzie
20
15 16
WEST
LOTHIAN
EDINBURGH
3
Dunbar
4
Haddington
9
13
17 21
6
Livingston
23
24
10
19
Dalkeith
2
Pathhead
EAST LOTHIAN
7
Penicuik
★★★★
MIDLOTHIAN
cairnpapple hill
Stand on a once-sacred hilltop where people first held
rituals and raised monuments some 5,500 years ago.
You can visit a Neolithic henge, see the site of a great
timber circle and descend into a Bronze Age cist grave
(now covered by a modern, domed chamber).
The panoramic views stretch from Bass Rock in the east
to the Isle of Arran in the west.
N
0 Kilometres
0 Miles
10
20
10
30
20
• 3m N of Bathgate, 1m from Torphichen,
5m S of Linlithgow
• NS 987 717 • Telephone 01506 634622
• Open summer only. Open on Monday, Tuesday,
Friday and Sunday. Guided tours are available
during the summer season on Mondays and Sunday,
call 0131 550 7603 to book
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
castlelaw hill fort
The ancient ramparts of this impressive Iron Age hill
fort are set into the beautiful Pentland Hills. Explore the
extensive site before plunging below the heart of the
ancient stronghold into a subterranean passage or cellar.
• On Castle Knowe, about 1m NW of Glencorse
or 2.5m SW from Lothianburn Junction
on the City Bypass, off the A702
• NT 229 638
4
chesters hill fort
Climb around the remarkable, maze-like ramparts of one
of the best-preserved hill forts in the country. You can
still trace the outlines of individual homes in this Iron Age
settlement, overlooking the fertile farmland of East Lothian.
• 1m S of Drem off the B1377
• NT 507 782
5
corstorphine dovecot
This beautifully-preserved ‘beehive’ dovecot once
supplied pigeons and eggs to the residents of the longgone Corstorphine Castle. The second Lord Forrester
was murdered by his lover, below the celebrated
Corstorphine Sycamore nearby .
• In Dovecot Road off Saughton Road N leading
to and from Corstorphine High Street, Edinburgh
• NT 200 725
16 | edinburgh and the lothians
edinburgh and the lothians | 17
Craigmillar Castle
6
Dirleton Castle
craigmillar castle
Craigmillar Castle was a prison for the younger brother
of James III, a happy retreat for Mary Queen of Scots
and the focus of a plot to murder her husband Darnley.
Its profile is dominated by its remarkably complete
inner curtain wall.
•
•
•
•
•
•
2.5m SE of Edinburgh off the A7
NT 289 709
Postcode EH16 4SY
Telephone 0131 661 4445
Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★
7
dirleton castle
and gardens
dunglass collegiate
church
Tease out the hints of a long and eventful history in these
well-preserved ruins. Cross the deep moat guarded
by high walls and an imposing tower, glancing up at
the ‘murder hole’ above your head. Look for the vaulted
dome inside the 1249 tower, the grim prison and pit and
the 1550s ‘beehive’ dovecote. Discover stories of sieges,
nobility and witchcraft.
Admire the surprisingly well-preserved sculptures
inside this stone-vaulted medieval church. Built for
Sir Alexander Home in about 1443, it later survived
being on the front line during the War of the Rough
Wooing in the 1500s.
8
Admire city views from the high ramparts of Edinburgh’s
‘other castle’, play hide-and-seek in its labyrinth of
chambers or picnic in its courtyards.
crichton castle
Dirleton is also celebrated for the beauty of its grounds.
You can enjoy the arts and crafts garden, at its peak
in the summer, and the Victorian formal garden,
particularly impressive in early autumn.
• In Dirleton village 3m W of North Berwick
on the A198
• NT 516 839
• Postcode EH39 5ER
• Telephone 01620 850330
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
Crichton Castle has been home to medieval lords and
Renaissance noblemen. Its sturdy tower of the late 1300s
stands by a sophisticated façade created 200 years later.
Crichton was besieged several times and hosted a
spectacular society wedding attended by Mary Queen
of Scots. The castle’s ruins, framed by a secluded valley,
were celebrated by writer Walter Scott and artist
J.M.W. Turner.
•
•
•
•
•
•
2.5m SSW of Pathhead off the A68
NT 380 611
Postcode EH37 5XA
Telephone 01875 320017
Open summer only
Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
Crichton Castle
★★★★
9
10
• 1m NW of Cockburnspath off the A1
• NT 766 718
11
eagle rock, cramond
Search out a weather-worn carving of an eagle on
a beachside rock that is thought to have been made
during the Roman occupation of Cramond in the
2nd or 3rd century AD. The nearby Drum Sands
are an internationally important site for waders
and winter fowl.
• On the shore of the Forth about 0.25m W
of Cramond off the A90. Access via pathway
from South Queensferry (under rail bridge)
into Dalmeny Castle estate
• NT 184 774
doon hill
Image
Decorated floor tile from the
Ruthven Lodging, Dirleton
Castle.
Scotland’s first farmers raised a great timber hall
on this hillside some 6,000 years ago, looking out over
the North Sea. The site has proved an archaeological
puzzle since its televised excavation in the 1960s.
• 2m S of Dunbar, off the A1
• NT 686 755
Dunglass Collegiate Church
See page 14
See page 4 for more information:
discounted
entry
For new annual members at English Heritage, Cadw & Manx
National Heritage properties.
18 | edinburgh and the lothians
edinburgh and the lothians | 19
The Prisons of War
edinburgh castle
The Tea Rooms
Hands on history
top 10 highlights
things to do
visit
A mighty fortress, the defender of the nation
and a world-famous visitor attraction –
Edinburgh Castle has dominated the skyline
for centuries. And the high volcanic rock
on which it stands has been occupied for
thousands of years.
1The Crown Room – where the nation’s treasures
are kept including the Stone of Destiny.
•
Take a tour of the castle with one of our experienced
The castle’s powerful stone walls have
endured many sieges and its sumptuous
apartments were an important residence
of Scottish kings and queens.
5The Prisons of War – an atmospheric recreation of
the life of prisoners at the end of the 18th century.
• In Edinburgh at the top of the Royal Mile
• Postcode EH1 2NG
• Telephone 0131 225 9846
• Buy tickets online at: www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk
•
Open all year. 1 April-30 September 9.30am to 6pm
and 1 October-31 March 9.30am to 5pm. Last tickets
1 hour before closing. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing
Day. Visit the website for New Year opening times.
Please note that opening times for the independent
museums may vary
•
Admission: Adult £16.50 Concession £13.20 Child £9.90
•
We recommend at least 2 hours to see the major
attractions within the castle
• Parking only for drivers with a blue disabled badge.
Please phone the site for details
• Steep inclines and steps – mobility vehicle available
• Audio guides available – members get a 20% discount
• Regular ‘Living History’ performances throughout
the year – check www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk/events
for more details
12
Today it is home to Scotland’s crown jewels,
the Stone of Destiny, three military museums,
the National War Memorial, the Prisons of
War exhibition and much more besides.
With more than a million visitors a year, from
across the globe, the castle offers a fabulous
day out – an experience not to be missed.
2The Great Hall – holds a fabulous display of arms
and armour as well as the ‘key’ to the castle.
3Royal Palace – birthplace of James VI.
4St Margaret’s Chapel – the oldest building in the
capital, built to commemorate the mother of David I.
6Mons Meg – could fire a 150kg stone for up to
3.2km (2 miles).
7The One o’ Clock Gun – the famous time signal,
has been fired almost daily since 1861 except
Sundays and Good Friday.
8The Scottish National War Memorial – a shrine to
those who gave their lives in conflicts from World
War I onwards.
9The National War Museum of Scotland – and
individual regimental museums.
10Panoramic views – stunning views across the capital.
guides and discover the stories that changed
Scotland.
• Entertain the kids with our special children’s quiz
which will lead them all around the castle making
new discoveries. Children’s Quizzes are available in
14 languages.
• Enjoy lunch or a traditional afternoon tea in our castle
café or tea room using your 10% member discount.
Taste the best of Scotland’s produce prepared by our
award-winning caterers.
• Visit the castle’s shops and bring home some lovely
gifts taking full advantage of your member discount.
★★★★★
20 | edinburgh and the lothians
edinburgh and the lothians | 21
Hailes Castle
13
hailes castle
A beautifully-sited ruin incorporating a fortified manor
of 13th century date, extended in the 14th and 15th
centuries. Mary Queen of Scots stayed here before
her third marriage.
• 1.5m SW of East Linton, off the A199 (exit A1
from Haddington [E-bound] or Dunbar [W-bound])
• NT 574 757
14
holyrood abbey
The ruined nave of the 12th and 13th century abbey
church, built for Augustinian canons. Other parts
of the abbey complex survive in the palace garden.
• At the foot of the Canongate, Edinburgh,
in the grounds of the Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Charge for entrance to Palace of Holyroodhouse.
(20% discount for Members on production of your
membership card)
15 holyrood,
abbey sanctuary
The three-storey building on Abbey Strand has its origins
in the late 15th or early 16th century. It was partly rebuilt
in 1544 and was heavily restored in 1916. The buildings
to the east began as an extension to the west tenement
in the mid-16th century. Abbey Strand currently houses
a Historic Scotland shop.
• At the foot of the Royal Mile, at the gates
of the Palace of Holyroodhouse
• NT 269 739
• Telephone 0131 557 2365
Holyrood Park
16
holyrood park
Enjoy wild and dramatic countryside in the heart
of the city. This former Royal Park of hills and crags
has many stories to tell: of holy visions and royal
celebrations, of radical protestors and grisly murders,
of hidden treasure and Jacobite armies. Our Ranger
Service operates on site.
There is plenty to do in the Park:
- Take in the dazzling sunrise and birdsong at dawn
on Arthur’s Seat
- Walk the historic Radical Road for astonishing views
of the Old and New Towns
- Stroll through Hunter’s Bog and watch for the park’s
remarkable wildlife
- Climb to the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel looking
out towards the Firth of Forth
- Marvel at rock formations that include a
fossilised beach
- Discover four Iron Age hill forts and farmsteads
- Look down from the Salisbury Crags onto the
Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Jog or cycle around the High Road built for
Prince Albert
- Picnic by a lochside and watch the waterfowl
- Hunt for the two surviving holy wells – St Anthony’s
and St Margaret’s
- Explore the valleys where kings and queens prayed,
played and made merry
• In Edinburgh, E of Holyrood Palace and Abbey
• Telephone 0131 652 8150
• NT 277 733
• Look out for our Ranger events happening
throughout the year. Visit www.historic-scotland.
gov.uk/rangerservice for details
Linlithgow Palace
lauderdale aisle,
st mary’s church
17
19
The former sacristy of the great 15th century parish
church, with a splendid monument of early 17th century
date, in marble, with alabaster effigies.
• In Haddington on the A1
• NT 518 736
18
linlithgow palace
Inside one of the most spectacular ruins in Scotland
you cannot help but walk in the footsteps of royalty.
This royal pleasure palace was the birthplace of
Mary Queen of Scots. Visit the great hall where
monarchs hosted banquets, tour James IV’s suite
of chambers or say a prayer in the private oratory of
James V. You can see the elaborate, restored fountain
in action every Sunday in July and August – it reputedly
flowed with wine when Bonnie Prince Charlie visited.
The high towers look down over the palace’s grounds –
the Peel – and Linlithgow Loch, an important refuge
for wildlife. You can explore both on well-surfaced paths.
There will be jousting here over 4 and 5 July in 2015.
A ranger service operates on site. View the newly
unveiled statue of Mary Queen of Scots situated
on the Peel.
• In Linlithgow off the M9
• Postcode EH49 7AL
• Telephone 01506 842896
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
Last ticket sold 45 mins before closing
• Toilets may not be available if function in progress
★★★★
ormiston market cross
Symbolic of the right of the inhabitants to hold a market,
this is a fine free-standing 15th century cross on a
modern base.
• In the village of Ormiston, 2m S of Tranent
off the A1
• NT 414 692
20
preston market cross
The only surviving example of a market cross of its
type on its original site. A beautiful piece of early 17th
century design, with a cylindrical base housing a prison,
surmounted by a cross-shaft headed by a unicorn.
Exterior view only.
• 0.5m S of Prestonpans off the Coast Road or
0.5m NE of the B1361 near the railway station
• NT 391 740
st martin’s kirk,
haddington
21
The ruined nave of a once splendid Romanesque
church, altered in the 13th century. Associated with
the Cistercian nunnery St Mary’s, founded near
Haddington before 1159.
• On the eastern outskirts of Haddington off the A1
• NT 521 739
22 | edinburgh and the lothians
Seton Collegiate Church
edinburgh and the lothians | 23
Tantallon Castle
st triduana’s chapel,
restalrig collegiate
church
22
The lower part of a chapel built by James III, housing the
shrine of St Triduana, an early Christian saint.
The hexagonal vaulted chamber is unique. Access can
be arranged Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 5.00pm,
or after worship on a Sunday 11.30am-12pm, by
contacting St Margaret’s Parish Church, Restalrig.
• Off Restalrig Road South, on the east side
of Edinburgh
• NT 283 743
• Telephone 0131 554 7400
23 seton collegiate
church
Discover an enchanting medieval church at the end
of a pretty woodland path. One of the finest surviving
collegiate churches, Seton also has ruined domestic
quarters, allowing a rare glimpse into the lives of those
who once prayed here.
There are stories of murdered stonemasons and royal
visits: Mary Queen of Scots won an archery contest
nearby, while her son James VI stayed on his journey
south to become James I of England.
• 1.5m W of Longniddry on the A198
• Postcode EH32 0PG
• Telephone 01875 813334
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
24
tantallon castle
trinity house
maritime museum
26
Ascend Tantallon’s towers for spectacular views
of the Bass Rock and to watch gannets plunge into
the North Sea. Then descend into the depths of
a particularly grim pit prison.
The castle was home to the powerful Red Douglas
dynasty, which often clashed with the Crown. It was
besieged by both James IV and James V but was
ultimately destroyed by Oliver Cromwell’s troops
in a siege of 1651. Many artefacts are displayed
to help tell its dramatic stories.
• 3m E of North Berwick off the A198
• Postcode EH39 5PN
• Telephone 01620 892727
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★
25
Torphichen Preceptory
Open this treasure chest of maritime heritage
and you will find an unparalleled collection
of wonders gathered over centuries by Leith’s
mariners. You can admire four portraits by
Sir Henry Raeburn, a French Tricolour captured
at the Battle of Trafalgar, a 200-year-old whaling
harpoon as well as a fleet of historic ships models,
all displayed in the cosy master’s room and
the imposing convening room of this fine
Georgian building.
• 99 Kirkgate, Leith, Edinburgh
• Postcode EH6 6BJ
• Telephone 0131 554 3289
• Pre-booked visits only. For booking enquiries call
0131 554 3289 (Monday to Friday)
• Admission: Free but donations are welcome
• Visit our website: www.trinityhouseleith.org.uk
torphichen preceptory
Explore the high tower and other remains of the base
of the powerful Knights Hospitallers and a seat of
government for William Wallace in 1298, sitting within
a ring of ancient sanctuary stones.
• In Torphichen village. 1m on the B792
from A706
• NS 969 726
• Telephone 01506 653733
• Open summer only. Weekends and bank holidays
1pm to 5pm. Members retail discount not applicable
• Admission: Adult £2 Child 80p Concession £1.50
★★★★
Image
A brass, egg-shaped
incense burner from
Trinity House
See above
Trinity House Maritime Museum
scottish borders | 25
Dryburgh Abbey
scottish
borders
1
cross kirk, peebles
Visit the site where King Alexander II reputedly
witnessed the unearthing of a skeleton popularly
believed to be that of St Nicholas, bishop of Myra
and the inspiration for Santa Claus. The impressive
ruin was once a religious house for Trinitarian friars –
known as the Red Friars – and later a parish church.
1
Duns
7
Peebles
11
Galashiels
Melrose
9
BORDERS
Hawick
0 Kilometres
8
0 Miles
10
20
10
30
20
10
Kelso
St Boswells
Selkirk
N
12
3
Jedburgh
5
dryburgh abbey
Wander among the graceful ruins of this beautiful
Borders abbey set beside the River Tweed. It has been
ravaged by fire and war but stone carvings and painted
plasterwork have survived to provide a fascinating
glimpse of its once-magnificent decoration.
• In Cross Road, Peebles on the A703
• NT 250 40
Look for the final resting place of author Sir Walter
Scott and World War One military leader Field Marshall
Douglas Haig as well as the Dryburgh Yew,
reputedly one of Scotland’s most ancient trees.
2 dere street roman road,
soutra
• 8m SE of Melrose on the B6404, near St Boswells
(turn left onto the B6356)
• NT 591 316
• Postcode TD6 0RQ
• Telephone 01835 822381
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
4
2
3
6
Follow the footsteps of the Roman legionaries who
marched into Scotland 1,900 years ago. This stretch
of Roman road, which ran between Hadrian’s Wall and
the Firth of Forth, has endured for almost two millennia.
You can still see the drainage ditches either side of
the route and the quarry pits from which the soldiers
extracted gravel.
• SW of Soutra Aisle, just off the A68 on the B6368
• NT 452 580
★★★★★
4
edin’s hall broch
One of the few Iron Age brochs in lowland Scotland.
Unusually large, it sits in a fort defended by ramparts
and ditches, partially overlain by a settlement
of the Romano-British period. Nearby is the Abbey
St. Bathans Woodland which is of national
importance having many different lichens, plants,
insects and birds.
• On the NE slope of Cockburn Law, about 4.5m
from Grantshouse, 1m walk from the A6112 Duns
road, cross the suspension bridge then follow
a footpath for 2m across fields
• NT 772 603
26 | scottish borders
scottish borders | 27
Hermitage Castle
5
edrom church
Jedburgh Abbey
7
greenknowe tower
The richly carved Romanesque doorway of the old parish
church of Edrom, re-erected in the kirkyard.
A handsome tower house on an L plan, built in 1581
and still retaining its iron gate or yett.
• In Edrom, 3.5m NE of Duns just off the A6105
• NT 827 558
• 0.5m W of Gordon on the A6105 Earlston road
• NT 639 428
6
foulden tithe barn
A two-storey barn possibly used for storing payments
made in grain to the parish church. View exterior only.
• In Foulden 4m SE of Chirnside on the A6105
• NT 931 558
8
hermitage castle
Soak up the eerie, powerful atmosphere of an imposing
stronghold with a notorious reputation. One of the great
Borders castles, Hermitage dates back to the 1300s.
Look for the garrison’s cesspit and seek shelter under
the great arch if it rains.
Legend holds that Hermitage’s lord, William De Soulis,
was boiled in lead by locals for undertaking black magic
rituals. His demonic familiar Robin Redcap is said to
haunt the castle grounds. Mary Queen of Scots visited
her future husband Bothwell here.
• 5.5m NE of Newcastleton, B6399
• Postcode TD9 0LU
• Telephone 01387 376222
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
Melrose Abbey
9
Smailholm Tower
jedburgh abbey
The towering ruins of this vast abbey complex are
testament to the power of both royalty and the
medieval church. Founded by David I in 1138, the abbey
was linked to a nearby royal castle. Alexander III married
Yolande de Dreux here.
You can explore the fine nave, cloisters and herb garden.
The abbey museum houses many precious artefacts
including an ivory comb from the 1100s that shows
Hercules slaying a dragon. There are also history displays,
a virtual tour and dressing-up clothes.
• In Jedburgh on the A68
• NT 650 204
• Postcode TD8 6 JQ
• Telephone 01835 863925
• Audio guide available
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★★
10
kelso abbey
The west end of the great abbey church of the
Tironensians, brought to Kelso in 1128 by David I.
Even in its fragmentary state, this is a superb piece
of architecture.
• In Kelso
• NT 728 338
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
Image
A sandstone shrine fragment
from Jedburgh Abbey.
See page 25
11
melrose abbey
Trace the lives and beliefs of medieval monks in one of
Scotland’s largest and richest medieval abbeys. You will
find remarkable sculptures of saints, demons and the
famous bagpipe-playing pig. The treasures displayed
in the museum include medieval spectacles, a scribe’s
inkwell and a carved Green Man.
The Cistercian monks and their lay brothers created an
influential spiritual centre and a wealthy business around
the abbey. King Alexander II and the mummified heart
of Robert the Bruce are buried here.
• In Melrose off the A7 or A68
• NT 548 341 • Postcode TD6 9LG
• Telephone 01896 822562
• Audio guide available
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★★
12
smailholm tower
This 20-metre-high stronghold, built in the 1400s,
dominates the skyline. On a clear day you can see as far
as Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland. The author
Sir Walter Scott spent much of his childhood on a farm
below the tower, where he first heard the stories that
made up his Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border, the subject
of an exhibition here.
• Near Smailholm village, 6m W of Kelso on the
A6089 then follow the B6397 before turning
on to the B6404
• NT 638 346 • Postcode TD5 7PG
• Telephone 01573 460365
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★★
dumfries and galloway | 29
Caerlaverock Castle
dumfries
and galloway
1
An Iron Age promontory fort, defended by a deep
U-shaped ditch. A steep climb.
N
0 Kms
10
20
0 Miles
• On the edge of a promontory above Barsalloch
Point, 0.75m W of Monreith on the A747
• NX 347 412
30
20
10
2
Sanquhar
Moffat
19
Loch
Doon
Cairnryan
Loch Ken
14
Portpatrick
13
12
Glenluce
Luce Bay
Port William
Drummore
28
5
6
9
7
10
1
22
24
30
4
3
Wigtown Bay
Whithorn
25
Gatehouse
of Fleet
21
Kirkcudbright
17
11
Dumfries
20 26
Castle Douglas
Dalbeattie
27
Lockerbie
Langholm
16
18
8
Newton Stewart
Stranraer
Lochmaben
15
23
2
caerlaverock castle
The epitome of the moated, medieval stronghold,
Caerlaverock’s great triangular defences guard the
Solway Shore. This site has had a turbulent past. In 1300,
its 60-strong garrison was defeated by Edward I’s vast
English army in a siege commemorated in verse.
29
DUMFRIES
AND
GALLOWAY
barsalloch fort
Annan
Gretna
Green
Gretna
Despite the castle’s rugged appearance, its walls
conceal a stunning Renaissance residence of the 1630s.
Today, visitors can enjoy a siege warfare exhibition,
a children’s play area and a trail through the woodland
to the remains of an older castle. See bluebells in spring,
dragonflies and wildflowers in summer and barnacle
geese in winter.
• 8m SE of Dumfries on the B725
• NY 025 656
• Postcode DG1 4RU
• Telephone 01387 770244
• Open all year. Café may have restricted opening
hours in winter
• Video presentation
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
BURROW
HEAD
★★★★★
cairn holy
chambered cairns
3
Two remarkably complete Neolithic burial cairns,
of a type characteristic of Galloway, situated on a hill
with fine views over Wigtown Bay.
• 6.5m SE of Creetown, on the A75
• NX 518 540
4
cardoness castle
Scale this impressive tower house for panoramic views
over Fleet Bay. Cardoness was built in the 1400s by the
notorious McCulloch clan, as a stronghold against their
neighbours. In 1501, one of them was prosecuted for
stealing 1,500 animals from his own mother. The wellpreserved prison shows the kind of reception their most
unwelcome guests might expect.
• 1m SW of Gatehouse of Fleet on the A75
• NX 590 553
• Postcode DG7 2EH
• Telephone 01557 814427
• Open summer only
• Disabled access to the shop only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
5
carsluith castle
A delightful tower house of the 1500s, with many
intriguing details surviving.
• 3.5m S of Creetown on the A75
• NX 494 541
30 | dumfries and galloway
dumfries and galloway | 31
Drumtroddan Cup and ring marked stones
6
chapel finian
The foundations of a small chapel, probably built
for pilgrims on their way from Ireland to Whithorn.
• 5m NW of Port William on the A747
• NX 278 489
7
druchtag motte
Ascend this 6.5m-high, steep conical mound, once
capped by an early-medieval timber castle and still
surrounded by a wide ditch.
• At Mochrum village on the A747 • NX 349 466
8
drumcoltran tower
Dundrennan Abbey
11
Enjoy the peace of this beautiful medieval abbey set
in tree-fringed pastures. There is particularly fine early
Gothic architecture in its chapter house and, within
which you can find the effigy of a murdered abbot
with a dagger at his heart and a slaughtered assailant
at his feet. Mary Queen of Scots spent her last hours
in Scotland here after the disastrous Battle of Langside
in 1568.
• 6.5m SE of Kirkcudbright on the A711
• NX 749 475
• Postcode DG6 4QH
• Telephone 01557 500262
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
A well-preserved tower from the mid-1500s that now
sits in a busy farmyard.
• 7m NE of Dalbeattie, among farm buildings
off the A711 • NX 869 682
9
drumtroddan rock art
Three groups of well-defined cup-and-ring marks
on bedrock, probably carved in the Bronze Age.
• 2m NE of Port William on the B7085 • NX 362 447
drumtroddan
standing stones
10
An alignment of three stones, one of which has fallen.
• 0.25m S of the Cup and Ring Marked Stones
on the B7085 • NX 364 443
dundrennan abbey
12
glenluce abbey
Tucked in a tranquil valley is one of Scotland’s bestpreserved monasteries. A highlight is the magnificent
chapter house, with its ornate windows and grotesque
carvings. There is also a remarkable plumbing system
that supplied the Cistercian monks with running water.
• 2m NW of Glenluce village off the A75
• NX 185 586
• Postcode DG8 0AF
• Telephone 01557 331856
• Open summer only, Friday to Sunday restricted access
may apply. Please phone 0131 550 7603 for further
information
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
Lincluden Collegiate Church
kirkmadrine early
christian stones
13
Three of the earliest Christian memorial stones in Britain,
dating from the 5th or early 6th century, displayed in the
porch of a former chapel.
• Please call 0131 550 7612 to check opening
hours before visiting
• In the Rhinns of Galloway, 2m SW of Sandhead
on the A716
• NX 080 483
laggangairn
standing stones
MacLellan’s Castle
16
lochmaben castle
The much reduced remains of a royal castle
originally built by the English in the 14th century
but extensively rebuilt during the reign of James IV
(1488-1513). Largely dismantled after its capture
by James VI in 1588. View exterior only. The extensive
remains of earthworks, including a rectangular ‘peel’
(timber palisaded enclosure) built by Edward I of
England, are visible around the masonry castle.
• Stands on the Castle Loch 1.5m from
Lochmaben on the B7020
• NY 088 811
14
Two prehistoric stones carved with early Christian
crosses. Difficult access signposted through Forestry
Commission land on the Southern Upland Way.
17
maclellan’s castle
• At New Luce on the Southern Upland Way
about 5m from Balmurrie Farm by foot.
From New Luce take the minor road past the
church to Balmurrie Farm
• NX 222 716
Explore the impressive residence of a powerful family
in the heart of Kirkcudbright and the vaulted ground
floor rooms in which their servants once worked.
The castle was built in about 1570 by Sir Thomas
MacLellan of Bombie. Look for the laird’s lug, a spy
hole in the great hall through which the lord could
eavesdrop on his guests.
lincluden
collegiate church
• In Kirkcudbright on the A711
• NX 682 510
• Postcode DG6 4JD
• Telephone 01557 331856
• Open summer only
• Collect key from Crossraguel Abbey
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
15
The remains of a collegiate church and the
accommodation for its canons founded in 1389 by
Archibald the Grim, 3rd Earl of Douglas (see Threave
Castle) on the site of an earlier nunnery. The splendid
chancel was probably added by his son Archibald, the
4th Earl, and houses the exquisite monumental tomb
of his wife, Princess Margaret, daughter of Robert III.
• On the western outskirts of Dumfries in Abbey
Lane on the A76
• NX 966 779
★★★★
32 | dumfries and galloway
dumfries and galloway | 33
New Abbey Corn Mill
18
Orchardton Tower
merkland cross
A fine carved wayside cross, of 15th century date.
• At Woodhouse Farm 1m N of Kirkpatrick Fleming
on the B7076
• NY 250 721
19
morton castle
A fine late 13th century hall house, once a stronghold
of the Douglases.
• Majestically situated on a promontory overlooking
Morton Loch. Take the second turning on the
right, 1.5m E of Carronbridge off the A702.
Not signposted
• NX 891 992
20
22
rispain camp
A rectangular settlement defended by a bank and ditch.
It dates from the 1st or 2nd century AD.
• 1m W of Whithorn, behind Rispain Farm
on the A746
• NX 429 399
23
ruthwell cross
This Anglian cross, sculptured in high relief, dates
from the end of the 7th century AD and is one of the
major monuments of early medieval Europe. Open by
arrangement only.
• 7m S of Dumfries on the A710
• NX 962 662 • Postcode DG2 8BX
• Telephone 01387 850260
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
24
st ninian’s cave
Traditionally associated with St Ninian. Early crosses
found here are housed at Whithorn Priory Museum,
but weathered crosses carved on the walls of the cave
are still visible.
• Physgill, on the coast 4m SW of Whithorn
on the A747
• NX 421 359
orchardton tower
A unique circular tower house of the 1400s.
• 6m SE of Castle Douglas on the A711
• NX 817 551
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
25
st ninian’s chapel
Restored ruins of a 13th century chapel, probably used
by pilgrims on their way to Whithorn.
• At Isle of Whithorn on the A747
• NX 807 598
Whithorn Museum
sweetheart abbey
A monument to human and divine love, Sweetheart
Abbey was named for its founder, Lady Dervorgilla,
who was buried here with the embalmed heart of her
beloved husband. War inflicted much damage to
the buildings. But the abbey church, with a stone effigy
of the founder, survives almost intact.
• In New Abbey village on the A710
• NX 965 662
• Postcode DG2 8BU
• Telephone 01387 850397
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★
27
★★★★
21
26
• At Ruthwell 8.5m SE of Dumfries, sited within
the parish church on the B724
• NY 100 682 • Telephone 0131 550 7612
new abbey corn mill
See a beautifully-restored village mill in action and learn
about how oatmeal, a staple of the Scottish diet,
was once made. A mill was built here by the monks
of nearby Sweetheart Abbey, but the present building
dates to the late 1700s.
Sweetheart Abbey
threave castle
Cross the River Dee by boat to visit this enchanting castle
on its own island. Once the bustling base of its creator,
Archibald the Grim, it is now an ideal spot for exploring,
picnicking and, perhaps, painting. The island is rich with
wildflowers in summer; you might also see ospreys and
otters hunting in the river.
The castle was besieged by King James II for two
months in 1455, and fell after the king bribed the
garrison to surrender.
• 3m W of Castle Douglas on the A75
• NX 739 623
• Postcode DG7 1TJ
• Telephone 07711 223101
• Open April-Oct, first outward sailing at 10am, last
outward sailing at 4.30pm (Oct last sailing 3.30pm)
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
- Boat trip included in admission price
• Car park is an 800 metre walk from the castle
★★★★
28
torhouse stone circle
A Bronze-Age stone circle consisting of 19 boulders.
• 4m W of Wigtown on the B733 • NX 382 565
29 wanlockhead
beam engine
An early 19th century wooden water-balance pump for
draining a lead mine, with the track of a horse engine
beside it. Nearby is the privately operated Museum of
Lead Mining.
• In Wanlockhead village off the A76
• NS 869 130
30 whithorn priory
and museum
and the whithorn story exhibition
This is where some of Scotland’s earliest Christians
worshipped about 1,500 years ago. According to legend,
St Ninian founded the priory at Whithorn in the early 400s.
The Latinus Stone, now displayed here, was raised soon
after and remains Scotland’s oldest Christian monument.
There is also an outstanding collection of intricately-carved
stone crosses. Whithorn is still a place of pilgrimage.
• At Whithorn on the A746
• NX 444 402 • Postcode DG8 8PY
• Telephone 01988 500700 (Whithorn Trust)
• Open 1 April-31 October 10.30am to 5.00pm
• Admission to the museum and priory is free
for HS members
• There is a 20% Members discount to The Whithorn
Story Exhibition. Please phone for up to date prices
• Historic Scotland Members’ retail discount does
not apply at The Whithorn Story Exhibition
•Website: www.whithornpriorymuseum.gov.uk
glasgow, clyde and ayrshire | 35
Bar Hill Roman Fort – Antonine Wall
glasgow,
clyde and
ayrshire
EAST
DUMBARTONSHIRE 3
WEST
DUMBARTONSHIRE
23
Firth of Clyde
GREENOCK
34
Bute
Rothesay
30
Sound of Bute
9
6
35
32
RENFREWSHIRE PAISLEY
Largs
NORTH
AYRSHIRE
Ardrossan
Brodick
10 11
18
26
14
EAST
RENFREWSHIRE
Kilwinning
Irvine Bay
1
21
FALKIRK
Cumbernauld
2
4
25 GLASGOW
16
EAST
KILBRIDE
17
NORTH
LANARKSHIRE
20
31
KILMARNOCK
24
Ayr Bay
13
22
28
Girvan
Maybole
SOUTH
AYRSHIRE
N
27
0 Miles
10
20
10
The Antonine Wall was the Roman Empire’s northwest frontier. It ran for 37 miles from Bo’ness to
Old Kirkpatrick. It consisted of a turf rampart fronted
by a ditch, with forts about every two miles and
a road running for the entire length of the frontier.
The Wall was built in the 140s AD and was occupied
for about 20 years. See also Antonine Wall entries
in Central and West section. All of the Antonine
Wall Monuments are part of a World Heritage Site.
Stroll along the former Roman frontier with its deep,
rock-cut ditch and traces of turf rampart climbing along
a ridge at Croy Hill. Along the line is the site of a fort,
fortlet and two beacon platforms.
Biggar
The well-preserved remains of a bath-house and latrine,
built in the 2nd century AD to serve a small fort.
• On Roman Road, Bearsden, Glasgow.
Signed from Bearsden Cross on A810.
Approximately 600 metres down Roman Road
• NS 546 720
antonine wall:
bar hill fort
2
Dalmellington
0 Kms
15
19
EAST
AYRSHIRE
Ayr
antonine wall:
croy hill
antonine wall:
bearsden bath-house
Lanark
SOUTH
LANARKSHIRE
antonine wall
monuments
1
Motherwell
33
7
8
12
INVERCLYDE GLASGOW
FIRTH OF
CLYDE
Arran
Dumbarton
29
5
Kilsyth
30
20
Bridgeness Slab reconstruction, Bo’ness
Explore the highest fort on the Antonine Wall where
the foundations of the Roman army headquarters and
bath-house are still visible. A small Iron Age fort stands
close by, overlooking the rock-cut ditch that marks the
frontier. There are superb views over the Kelvin Valley
from this strategic spot.
• 0.5m E of Twechar, signposted from village.
Access from B8023 Kirkintilloch to Kilsyth Road
• NS 706 759 -714 762
3
• Between Croy and Dullatur. Access from B802
• NS 725 762 -739 769
4 antonine wall:
dullatur
A well-preserved section of ditch. To the north is Dullatur
Marsh, now a very important habitat for birds.
• 0.5m E of Dullatur off the A803.
Access along farm road
• NS 751 772 -756 773
5 antonine wall:
westerwood to
castlecary (garnhall
district)
Follow the ditch that marks the former Roman frontier
as it crosses farmland close to Cumbernauld.
• West of Castlecary off the B816. Access from
minor road
• NS 769 777 -783 782
36 | glasgow, clyde and ayrshire
Arran: Carn Ban
arran: auchagallon
cairn
6
Visit a Bronze Age cairn surrounded by a circle
of 14 standing stones looking out over Kilbrannan
Sound towards Kintyre.
• 4m N of Blackwaterfoot on the W side of Arran
off the coastal route (formerly A841)
• NR 893 346
glasgow, clyde and ayrshire | 37
Arran: Lochranza Castle
9
arran: lochranza castle
A fine tower house, a 16th century redevelopment of a
late 13th century hall house. The mountains to the south
of the castle are home to many birds. The castle is a good
vantage point for watching seals.
• At the northern coast of Arran off the coastal
route (formerly A841)
• NR 931 506
• Open summer only
Bothwell Castle
arran: torr a’chaisteal
fort
15
A circular late Iron Age fort on a ridge.
Typical of a small town coal-gas works, Biggar is the only
one surviving in Scotland. The oldest part of the works
dates from 1839. Managed by the Friends of Biggar
Gasworks Museum.
• 4m S of Blackwaterfoot on the SW side of Arran
off the coastal route (formerly A841)
• NR 921 232
13
7
arran: carn ban
Take a four mile walk up a wooded hillside to discover
a 5,000 year old chambered cairn where Arran’s
Neolithic farmers staged rituals for their dead.
• 3.5m NE of Lagg on the W side of Arran off the
coastal route (formerly A841)
• NR 990 262
• Currently no access (owing to forestry work)
10 arran: machrie moor
stone circles
The remains of five stone circles of Bronze-Age date,
one of the most important sites of its kind in Britain.
• 3m N of Blackwaterfoot on the W side of Arran
off the coastal route (formerly A841)
• NR 910 324
arran: torrylin cairn
A Neolithic chambered cairn, with four
compartments visible.
• 0.25m SE of Lagg on the S side of Arran off the
coastal route (formerly A841)
• NR 955 210
arran: kilpatrick dun
(or cashel)
arran: moss farm road
stone circle
The ruins of a circular drystone building of unknown
date, with a more recent enclosure wall. Walk of half
mile to site.
The remains of a Bronze-Age cairn surrounded by
a stone circle.
• 1m S of Blackwaterfoot on the W side of Arran
off the coastal route (formerly A841)
• NR 906 262
• Not signposted. Visitors should park at the bottom
of the road and walk to site on foot
11
• 3m N of Blackwaterfoot on the W side of Arran off
the coastal route (formerly A841)
• NR 900 326
• Parking available at Machrie Moor
• In Biggar. Located in Gas Works Road off A702
Edinburgh to Abington road
• NT 038 376
• Telephone 01899 221070
• Open daily 2pm-5pm June to September.
Last admission 4.30pm
• Please telephone for up-to-date prices
• Museum can be opened out of season
by appointment
16
14
barochan cross
A fine free-standing early 10th century cross that
formerly stood in Houston parish, west of Paisley.
8
biggar gasworks museum
12
• In Paisley Abbey, in the centre of Paisley
• NS 485 639
• The Abbey is open Mon – Sat 10am to 3:30pm
bothwell castle
Bothwell is Scotland’s largest and finest 13th century
castle. Part of the original circular keep survives.
The adjacent semi-natural ancient woodland is full
of woodland flowers, especially during the spring.
There is access to the Clyde Walkway.
• At Uddingston off the B7071
• NS 688 593
• Postcode G71 8BL
• Telephone 01698 816894
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
38 | glasgow, clyde and ayrshire
Glasgow Cathedral
17
cadzow castle
Constructed between 1500 and 1550, Cadzow Castle
was known as the castle in the woods of Hamilton.
Sir James Hamilton of Finnart built it for his half brother,
the 2nd Earl of Arran. At present, only the exterior
of the castle can be viewed. Overlooking a parkland
known as the Cadzow Oaks, all that remains of
a medieval hunting park.
• In the grounds of Chatelherault Country Park,
Hamilton. Exit M74 at Junction 6
• NS 735 537
castle semple
collegiate church
18
A late Gothic church, with a later three-sided east end
with windows of unusual style. Located next to Castle
Semple and Barr lochs, both important for their plants
and birds. The RSPB have a visitor centre at the south
end of Castle Semple Loch.
• 2m W of Howwood on the B787 then on to the
B776. Longer access through the country park
from Castle Semple Visitor Centre
• NS 377 601
19
coulter motte
A good example of an early castle mound, which would
have been surmounted by a palisade and timber tower.
• 1.5m SW of Biggar. On A72 Biggar to Lanark road
• NT 018 362
glasgow, clyde and ayrshire | 39
Craignethan Castle
20
craignethan castle
An exceptional fortress–residence that was overthrown
within 50 years of its construction despite its state-ofthe-art artillery defences. Built about 1530, it was the
brainchild of Sir James Hamilton of Finnart, King James
V’s talented master of works. There is evidence of his
many military innovations, including a shooting gallery
or caponier. But within a generation it was ‘cast doun’
by order of the Privy Council.
The surrounding woodland in the deep Nethan gorge
is rich with wildflowers and birdlife.
• 5.5m WNW of Lanark off the A72
• NS 815 463 • Postcode ML11 9PL
• Telephone 01555 860364
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
21
crookston castle
The altered ruin of an unusual 15th century castle,
consisting of a central tower with four square corner
towers, set within 12th century earthworks.
Affords excellent views of south-west Glasgow.
• From M8 in Glasgow, cross the Kingston Bridge.
Follow M77 for about 2 miles. Exit Junction 2
(Barrhead/Pollokshaws). At traffic lights on slip
road turn right on to Barrhead Road. At Pollock
roundabout take third exit on to Brockburn Road.
Follow until end is in sight. Before traffic lights,
turn right on to Linthaugh Road and right again
into Towerside Road (signed Crookston Castle)
• NS 525 627 • Telephone 0141 883 9606
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday
and Friday
Crossraguel Abbey
22
Dumbarton Castle
crossraguel abbey
Climb the impressive gatehouse tower for a bird’s eye
view of one of the most complete medieval abbey
complexes in Scotland. Now hauntingly beautiful,
its substantial ruins guard some violent secrets.
One abbot was roasted over a fire by a nobleman
seeking to regain control over the abbey.
• 2m S of Maybole on the A77
• NS 275 083
• Postcode KA19 8HQ
• Telephone 01655 883113
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★
24
dundonald castle
Explore the high-vaulted halls and gloomy dungeons
of this splendid stronghold, perched on a hill above
the village. The main tower was built in the 1370s
by King Robert II to mark his succession to the throne.
Its heritage is explored in the visitor centre.
• 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 • Telephone 01563 851489
• Members’ retail discount not applicable
• Open seven days a week from April-October,
10am to 5pm. Last entry 4.30pm
• Please telephone for up to date prices
★★★★
23
dumbarton castle
Conquer more than 500 steps to stand atop one
of Scotland’s greatest strongholds. The iconic Rock
of the Clyde has heritage as breathtaking as its views
over the Clyde, Loch Lomond and Argyll.
Dumbarton was a centre of power in what later became
the Kingdom of Strathclyde. It was later sacked by
Vikings. The castle became a cornerstone of medieval
royal power and latterly served as a military base and
prison. You can explore its many fortifications with our
interactive family trail.
• In Dumbarton off the A82
• NS 398 744 - NS 401 745
• Postcode G82 1JJ
• Telephone 01389 732167
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
Last ticket sold 45 mins before closing
★★★★
25
glasgow cathedral
The most complete medieval cathedral on the
Scottish mainland is still a working church with an
active congregation. From its magnificent nave and
choir to the atmospheric crypt of St Mungo (who was
supposedly buried here in AD 614), Glasgow Cathedral
is full of intriguing features. Look for the tomb of
Bishop Wishart, a key supporter of Robert the Bruce,
and the carving of a lucky ladybird.
• In Glasgow, off the M8, J15 next to the Royal
Infirmary • NS 603 656 • Postcode G4 0QZ
• Telephone 0141 552 6891 / 0141 552 0988
• Open all year. April-September 9.30am to 5.30pm,
Sunday 1pm to 5pm. October- March 10am to 4pm,
Sunday 1pm to 4pm. Last admission 30 mins before
closing. Last entry to Lower Church
45 mins before closing
• Visitors requiring wheelchair access please phone
prior to visit to find out about access arrangements
40 | glasgow, clyde and ayrshire
glasgow, clyde and ayrshire | 41
Newark Castle
26
kilwinning abbey
The much-reduced remains of a Tironensian-Benedictine
abbey, established from Kelso. Most of the surviving
fragments, which consist of parts of the abbey church
and chapter house, are of 13th century date.
• In Kilwinning. Off A78 Kilwinning to Ardrossan Road
• NS 303 433
27
loch doon castle
Transplanted in the mid-1930s from an island in the
middle of Loch Doon due to a hydro-electric scheme.
The castle consists of an 11-sided curtain wall of fine
masonry, dating from 1300. Loch Doon has a unique
population of Arctic Char.
• Turn right 2m S of Dalmellington on the A713
on to an unclassified road signed for Loch Doon
• NX 484 950
maybole collegiate
church
28
The chapel of St Mary was founded by John Kennedy
of Dunure in 1371 and the associated college 11 years
later. Its function was to allow prayers to be said for
the founder and his family.
• Approaching Maybole on the A77 from Ayr.
At the crossroads in the town centre, turn left
onto the B7023, signposted Crosshill, and then
take first right
• NS 301 098
• Open summer only
• Collect key from Crossraguel Abbey
Rothesay Castle
29
newark castle
This 15th century castle is most associated with
Patrick Maxwell. He transformed the castle into a fine
Renaissance mansion, but was notorious for murdering
two neighbours and mistreating his wife. There are
excellent views over the Firth of Clyde and the
associated birdlife.
• In Port Glasgow on the A8 at Newark Roundabout
• Postcode PA14 5NH
• Telephone 01475 741858
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
30
rothesay castle
Cross the drawbridge over the moat and climb the
‘bloody stair’ to the circular ramparts, or descend into
a forbidding pit prison. This doughty stronghold,
built in the 1200s, was twice besieged and captured
by the Norse, who battered down the wall with their
axes. A short film tells this remarkable story.
The castle has also been a royal base: Robert III died
here and James IV used it to launch campaigns against
the Lords of the Isles.
• In Rothesay, Isle of Bute. Ferry from Wemyss Bay
on the A78. The castle is only a few mins walk
from the ferry terminal
• NS 088 645
• Postcode PA20 0DA
• Telephone 01700 502691
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
Rowallan Castle
31
rowallan castle
Explore rooms with their original fittings and get a sense
of life in a laird’s residence. A medieval tower house that
became a Renaissance mansion, Rowallan was inhabited
until the 1800s and still retains the feel of a family home.
Writers, historians and composers occupied the house,
and Scotland’s earliest surviving lute music, written
here, can once again be heard in its original setting.
Only accessible on specially-arranged guided tours.
• 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
visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
st blane’s church,
kingarth
32
A 12th century Romanesque chapel set within an early
Christian monastery. A charming, tranquil spot.
• At the south end of the Isle of Bute
• NS 094 535
St Blane’s Church
st bride’s church
douglas
33
The choir and south side of the nave of a late 14th
century parish church. The choir contains three
canopied monuments to the Black Douglas family,
including the tomb of Good Sir James who famously
carried Bruce’s heart on crusade. Access during
published opening hours can be arranged by contacting
the key keeper.
• Access throughout the year can be arranged
by contacting the Key Keeper. Winter closed
Thursday and Friday
• NS 835 309 • Telephone 01555 851657
st mary’s chapel,
rothesay
34
The late-medieval remains of the chancel of the parish
church of St Mary, recently reroofed to protect its fine
Stewart tombs.
• On the outskirts of Rothesay
• NS 086 636
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
35
skelmorlie aisle
This jewel-like monument was erected in 1636 for
Sir Robert Montgomerie of Skelmorlie. Contains an
elaborate carved stone tomb in Renaissance style
and a painted timber ceiling, with lively scenes
illustrating the seasons. Open late May to early
September from 2pm to 5pm. Collect key from
the Largs Museum.
• In Largs on the A78. Signed from the Main Street
• NS 202 594
• Telephone 01475 687081
central and west | 43
Ardchattan Priory
central
and west
antonine wall
monuments
Coll
nh
Lismore
Ulva
Hynish
Bay
Lin
Lo
ch
Calgary
Bay
19
15 16
Isle of Mull
23
22
Fir
17
th
o
fL
o
ARGYLL
AND BUTE
24
Islay
Gigha
ATLANTIC
OCEAN
Kilbrann
MULL
OF OA
Machrihanish
Bay
9
2
34 35 36 37 38
39 40
Dollar
Clackmannan
5
• E of Castlecary village on B816 Cumbernauld
to Bonnybridge road
• NS 790 783
43
antonine wall:
seabegs wood
2
A stretch of rampart and ditch with the military way behind.
• 1m W of Bonnybridge, access from the B816
on Castlecary to Bonnybridge road
• NS 811 792 - 818 792
Campbeltown
antonine wall:
rough castle
0 Kms 10
0 Miles
20
10
30
20
5
Two sections on each side of the house known
as Watling Lodge (there is no entry to the house
or grounds). The eastern section is one of the deepest
and steepest stretches of the ditch visible.
• In Falkirk, signposted from A9, access from the
B816 from Tamfourhill • NS 863 798 - 866 798
6
ardchattan priory
The ruins of a Valliscaulian priory founded in 1230
and later converted to secular use.
3
N
antonine wall:
watling lodge
(east and west)
4
The low earthworks of a stone-walled fort.
12
3 50
4
28 29 30 31 33
Sound of
Bute
10
13 14
1
Tarbert
44 45
20
STIRLING
Falkirk
Dunoon
25
27
Loch
Katrine
Loch
Lomond
41
11
an Sound
Laggan
Bay
Inverarary
7 46 47 48 49
Lochgilphead
Bowmore
RHINNS POINT
Dalmally
32
18 42
antonine wall:
castlecary
1
26
Loch
Awe
Seil
Luing
Jura
Oronsay
Taynuilt
8
e
rn
Scarba
Colonsay
6
Oban
Iona
21
See also entries in Glasgow, Clyde & Ayrshire section.
All Antonine Wall Monuments are part of a World
Heritage Site.
e
Tobermory
Argyll’s Lodging
The best-preserved length of rampart and ditch, together
with the earthworks of a fort and a short length of military
way with quarry pits. This is the best site to gain an
impression of how the frontier and its integral forts worked.
• Signposted at Bonnybridge. Signposted from the
B816 between Bonnybridge and High Bonnybridge
• NS 835 798 - 845 799
• On Loch Etive, 6.5m NE of Oban off the A828
• NM 971 349
7
argyll’s lodging
Enjoy a glimpse of the home life of a wealthy Scottish
nobleman of the 1600s. The most complete townhouse
of its kind, its interior has been reconstructed to look
as it may have done when Archibald Campbell,
9th Earl of Argyll lived here.
Access via Stirling Castle’s admission office.
• In Stirling’s historic old town just below
Stirling Castle off the M9
• NS 792 938 • Postcode FK8 1EG
• Please call the castle for opening times.
Telephone 01786 450000
• Wheelchair users can only access ground floor
• Car parking at Stirling Castle £2.00 in summer,
free in winter
• Admission included in Stirling Castle admission
★★★★
44 | central and west
central and west | 45
Bonawe Historic Iron Furnace
Castle Campbell
bonawe historic
iron furnace
castle campbell
and gardens
Once a place of fire and fury, the most complete
charcoal-fuelled ironworks in Britain are now tranquil.
Step inside the stone furnace complex and storage
buildings of this pioneering 18th century site and
discover the Highlands’ role in the Industrial Revolution.
The furnace only ceased firing in 1870.
Discover the drama of this remarkably well preserved,
brooding medieval castle, set high above tree-covered
ravines and plunging burns on the edge of the Ochil Hills.
This was the lowland residence of the powerful Campbell
dynasty, where the Protestant reformer John Knox came
to preach and Mary Queen of Scots came to feast.
Take a walk through beautiful grounds down to the
quayside where raw materials were once unloaded.
The views up Loch Etive are breathtaking.
You can learn about the rise and fall of the Campbells
of Argyll and admire the Forth Valley from the rooftops.
You can also picnic in beautiful gardens and climb through
the Dollar Glen, a haven for plants and wildlife.
8
• By the village of Taynuilt off the A85
• NN 010 318
• Postcode PA35 1JQ
• Telephone 01866 822432
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
9
cambuskenneth abbey
In its day the abbey was a famous house of Augustinian
canons, the scene of Robert Bruce’s Parliament in 1314
and burial place of James III and his queen. The fine
detached bell tower is the only substantial survivor but
extensive foundations remain of the other buildings.
View exterior only.
• 1m E of Stirling off the A907
• NS 809 939
• Open summer only
10
12
• At the head of Dollar Glen, 10m E of Stirling
on the A91
• NS 961 993 • Postcode FK14 7PP
• Telephone 01259 742408
• No coach/bus access – 30-45 min uphill walk
from car park
• Due to current road conditions visitors are advised
to leave vehicle at woodland quarry car park on Castle
Road and make their way to site on foot. Visit
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places for more info
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★
11
Doune Castle
castle sween
One of the oldest castles in Scotland, built by Suibhne,
ancestor of the MacSweens in the 12th century.
Later towers were built in addition to now vanished
wooden structures.
• On the E shore of Loch Sween, in Knapdale off
the B8025, past Achnamara
• NR 712788
• 20-30 min walk downhill from parking location
Dunstaffnage Castle
clackmannan tower
A fine 14th century keep enlarged in the 15th century.
View exterior only.
• In Clackmannan village near Alloa off the A907
• NS 905 920
13
doune castle
This near-complete castle set amid lovely Stirlingshire
countryside was built as the home of Regent Albany,
Scotland’s ‘uncrowned king’. It was later a royal
residence, a dower house for widowed queens
and a Jacobite prison. It was partially restored in
the 1880s. The great hall and kitchen tower are
particularly impressive.
The audio guide is narrated by Terry Jones, and recalls
the filming of Monty Python and the Holy Grail here.
The site has also been used as a film location for Game
of Thrones and Outlander.
• In Doune, 10m NW of Stirling off the A84
• NN 725 014 - 730 001
• Postcode FK16 6EA • Telephone 01786 841742
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★
14
dunblane cathedral
One of Scotland’s finest medieval churches.
The lower part of the tower is Romanesque but most
of the building was built in the 1200s, and extensively
restored in the 1800s.
• In Dunblane just off the B8033
• NN 782 014 • Postcode FK15 0AQ
• Telephone 01786 823388
• Open standard hours except Sundays, when the site
is open from 2pm (it is closed Sunday mornings to
facilitate church services)
• Donations welcome
• A wheelchair is available
dunstaffnage castle
and chapel
15 16
From the rugged battlements of this strategically sited
castle you can see how it once dominated Loch Etive.
Outside the ramparts lie a ruined chapel, well-kept
grounds and pebbly beaches with views to Mull,
Lismore and Morvern.
Built by Duncan MacDougall in the 1200s, the castle was
captured by Robert the Bruce in 1309. Flora MacDonald
was imprisoned here after helping Bonnie Prince Charlie
escape Scotland. The three-storey gatehouse built
around 1500 is now open to visitors.
• Near Dunbeg 3m N of Oban off the A85
• NM 882 344 • Postcode PA37 1QA
• Telephone 01631 562465
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
46 | central and west
central and west | 47
Eileach an Naoimh
17
eileach an naoimh
The ruins of an early Christian monastery, reputedly
founded by St Brendan the Navigator, with the most
complete beehive cells in Scotland and a later church
and chapel. Dolphins can be seen off-shore.
• An island in the Garvellach group, N of Jura
• NM 637 096
18 eilean mor:
st cormac’s chapel
A chapel with a vaulted chancel containing the effigy
of an ecclesiastical figure, probably of 12th century date.
Within the Knapdale national scenic area with views
across Loch Sween to Taynish national nature reserve.
• On an islet off the coast of Knapdale
• NR 666 753
19
inchkenneth chapel
A 13th century chapel containing later grave slabs of
West Highland type.
• On an island on the west side of Mull
• NM 437 354
Inchmahome Priory
20
inchmahome priory
Take a scenic boat trip across Scotland’s only lake
(as opposed to loch) to this peaceful, wooded island
sanctuary with a medieval priory at its heart.
Founded around 1238, the priory was home to
Augustinian canons for more than 300 years. It was
visited by Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots.
There are some beautifully-decorated features and
fine medieval carved graveslabs.
The island is perfect for a short walk or a waterside
picnic. It is a haven for wildlife. Look for the Spanish
chestnuts and the boxwood bower supposedly
planted by Mary.
• On an island in the Lake of Menteith. Reached by boat from Port of Menteith 8m S of Callander off the A81
• NN 574 005
• FK8 3RA
• Telephone 01877 385294
• Open Apr-Oct. 10am to last outward sailing
at 4.15pm. Oct last outward sailing 3.15pm.
Shop closed 12.30pm to 1.30pm
• No water supply for drinking. Hand sanitiser available
for hand-washing
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
• Boat trip to island included in admission price
★★★★
Iona Abbey
iona abbey
and nunnery
21 22
Iona Abbey is an ancient holy place. Founded by
St Columba in 563, the early monastery was a
powerhouse of Christian learning. Great works of art
were created here, including Iona’s iconic high crosses
and the world-famous Book of Kells. Despite devastating
Viking raids, the abbey continued to thrive, transformed
into a Benedictine monastery in about 1200. Pilgrims
have travelled here for centuries and the abbey remains a
vibrant centre of Christianity. Its buildings were restored in
the 1900s and in 1938, the Iona Community was founded
to revive its traditions of work, worship and teaching.
Highlights of a visit include the abbey church, high
crosses, Columba’s shrine and site of the saint’s writing
cell. Iona also boasts Scotland’s finest collection of
carved stones and crosses, now on display in the Abbey
Museum. Also nearby are the attractive ruins of the
Augustinian nunnery – a rare survival in Scotland.
• On the island of Iona, Public ferry (for pedestrian
visitors only) from Fionnphort, Mull. 10 minute
walk from ferry to Abbey
• Postcode PA76 6SQ • Telephone 01681 700512
• Open all year. Closed Sundays in winter
• Admission to the Abbey: Adult £7.10 Child £4.30
Concession £5.70
• Visit our website: www.ionahistory.org.uk
★★★★★
23
See page 2 for more information:
exclusive members’
magazine
Keep up to date with what’s
going on at Historic Scotland.
IONA: MacLean’s Cross
iona: maclean’s cross
24
keills chapel
A stunning collection of West Highland graveslabs and
early medieval sculpture that includes the magnificent
Keills Cross.
• 6m SW of Tayvallich off the B8025 • NR 690 806
kilberry sculptured
stones
25
A collection of late-medieval sculptured stones gathered
from the Kilberry estate.
• 17m SSW of Lochgilphead on the west coast
of Knapdale off the B8024 • NR 709 642
26
kilchurn castle
Beneath towering mountains at the top of Loch Awe
is one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland.
Home to the Campbells of Glenorchy, among Argyll’s
most important families, its ruins are still substantial
and have inspired poets and artists.
• At the NE end of Loch Awe, 2.5m W of Dalmally
off the A85. Access on foot is possible under
Loch Awe railway viaduct via a pedestrian gate.
Care should be taken as the area is liable
to flooding • NN 133 276
• No vehicular access or parking
• Open summer only
A fine 15th century free-standing cross.
• On the roadside between Iona Abbey and Nunnery
• NM 285 242
27
kildalton cross
The finest carved stone high cross in Scotland,
dating to the 8th century.
• On the island of Islay, N of Ardbeg off the A846
• NR 458 508
48 | central and west
central and west | 47
Kilmartin Glen: Achnabreck rock art
Kilmartin Glen: Dunadd Fort
Kilmartin Glen: Temple Wood Stone Circles
kilmartin glen
monuments
Explore the richest prehistoric landscape
in mainland Scotland. Many artefacts
associated with these monuments are
displayed in the Kilmartin House Museum.
28
achnabreck rock art
Take a pleasant walk through hillside woods to the most
extensive rock art site in Britain. Among the enigmatic
designs are distinctive horned spirals and a colossal
cup-and-ring motif a metre across.
• Signed off the A816 outside Cairnbaan,
2m N of Lochgilphead. 500 metre walk
• NR 856 906
31
cairnbaan rock art
Follow a woodland trail up to two decorated outcrops
that prompted much speculation among Victorian
antiquaries. The enigmatic multiple rings carved into the
higher panel some 4,500 years ago are particularly fine.
• 200 yards uphill NW of the Cairnbaan Hotel,
situated at the junction of the A816 and B841
• NR 838 910
34
This early Bronze Age cairn nestles in a picturesque
woodland grove. Look for two stone cists. The
Ballymeanoch henge and standing stones are close by.
• 1.25m S of Kilmartin off the A816 • NR 833 968
35
29
ballygowan rock art
One of the first rock art sites to be recognised in modern
times, Ballygowan features rare horseshoe motifs and
has views down over the glen.
• 1m SW of Kilmartin off the A816, near Slockavullin
• NR 816 978
• Not signposted and no vehicle access
30
32
At the top of a rocky path stands the splendid
Renaissance residence of the first Protestant Bishop of
the Isles. Scale the towers for great views over Kilmartin
Glen or stand in the chamber where the first printed
book in Gaelic was written.
• 2m N of Kilmartin off the A816
• NM 838 009
• 10-15 mins uphill walk
baluachraig rock art
Walk the short distance from Dunchraigaig, ford a small
burn and you will arrive at this exquisite rock art site.
Look for lines of cup marks pecked into the outcrop.
• 1m SSE of Kilmartin off the A816
• NR 831 969
carnasserie castle
33
dunadd fort
Stand where the kings of Dál Riata were inaugurated
more than 1,200 years ago atop this iconic hill fort.
The carved footprint on a decorated outcrop marks the
heart of the ancient kingdom. To breach the hill fort’s
impressive defences, you must climb a rough path and
pass along the gully that cuts through the high ramparts.
The views across Argyll are spectacular.
• Signed off the A816, 2m S of Kilmartin
• NR 837 936
dunchraigaig cairn
nether largie cairns
You can climb inside the Neolithic tomb at Nether Largie
South, find Bronze Age carvings in a subterranean room
within Nether Largie North, and appreciate the view
from Nether Largie Mid.
• Between Kilmartin and Nether Largie
• NR 830 983, 831 985, 828 979
• Parking at Lady Glassary Wood off the A816
glebe cairn, kilmartin
You can see the glen’s line of cairns from the top of this
Bronze Age monument. Two cists or graves and a stone
circle are buried beneath its water-worn stones.
• At Kilmartin Glebe off the A816 • NR 832 989
• Park near church and walk down hill towards garage
36
38
39
ri cruin cairn
Look for axehead carvings inside one of the cists or
graves in this Bronze Age cairn set in woodland.
• 1m SW of Kilmartin off the A816
• NR 825 971
kilmartin stones
Encounter effigies of medieval Gaelic knights and fantastic
beasts in an outstanding collection of West Highland
graveslabs. Inside the church are three beautiful medieval
stone crosses.
• In Kilmartin Churchyard in the village
of Kilmartin on the A816 • NR 827 977
kilmichael glassary
rock art
37
Look for the keyhole motifs among the designs carved
into this hillside outcrop some 4,500 years ago.
• Near the schoolhouse, Kilmichael Glassary
off the A816 • NR 857 934
temple wood stone
circles
40
Two stone circles were built here about 4,700 years ago,
aligned to the movement of the Sun and Moon.
Looked for carved spirals and the remains of cists
or graves in one of Kilmartin’s most famous monuments.
Pass through the Nether Largie standing stones between
the circles and the Lady Glassary Wood car park.
• 0.25m SW of Nether Largie off the A816
• NR 826 978
• Please use car park at Lady Glassary Wood
50 | central and west
central and west | 51
Kilmory Knap Chapel
kilmodan sculptured
stones
Kinneil House
kinneil house
41
43
A group of West Highland carved grave slabs exhibited
in a burial aisle within Kilmodan churchyard. Woodlands
here support many ferns and mosses. Bats, red squirrels,
otters and golden eagles are seen here.
Almost 2,000 years of history can be found in the
landscaped grounds of this historic house: the remains
of a Roman fort, the impressive exterior of a stately
home and an outhouse where James Watt worked
on his first steam engine.
• At Clachan of Glendaruel, 8m N of Colintraive
off the A886
• NR 995 842
There are also 80 hectares of woodland and lochs and
a child-friendly museum. On special heritage days you
can step inside and see the stunning wall-paintings of
the 1500s that once saved this house from demolition.
Visit www.kinneil.org.uk for details.
42
kilmory knap chapel
A small medieval chapel with a collection of typical West
Highland grave slabs and some early medieval sculpture.
In the church is Macmillan’s Cross, a splendid piece of
medieval carving.
• On the shore between Loch Sween and
Loch Caolisport in South Knapdale off the
B8025 past Achnamara
• NR 703 752
• On the western outskirts of Bo’ness.
Off A904 follow signs for Kinneil Museum
• NS 982 805
• Telephone 01506 778530
• Kinneil Museum offers audio visual interpretation
of Kinneil House and its estate. The museum is
open 12.30pm to 4pm, Monday to Saturday.
Stirling: Mar’s Wark
skipness castle
and chapel
44 45
A fine 13th century castle with a 16th century tower
house in one corner. A short walk leads from the castle
to the earlier 14th century chapel, which lies near
the seashore and holds a small collection of fine grave
slabs. Castle exterior and chapel accessible all year
round. The interior of the tower at the castle is open
summer only.
• S of the village of Skipness on the E coast
of Kintyre off the B8001
• NR 908 578, NR 910 575
Stirling Bridge
48
stirling: mar’s wark
A remarkable Renaissance mansion built by the
Earl of Mar, regent for James VI in 1570 and later
used as the town workhouse. It was never completed
and now only the façade can be seen.
• At the head of Castle Wynd
• NS 792 936
49
stirling: old bridge
A handsome bridge built in the 15th or early 16th
century; partially rebuilt in 1749.
• On the River Forth off the M9 at Stirling
• NS 797 945
46
stirling castle
See pages 50-51 for full details.
47
stirling: king’s knot
The earthworks of a splendid formal garden, possibly
made in 1628 for Charles I.
• Below castle rock, Stirling
• NS 787 941
Image
Original key to Stirling Castle
See page 50
50
westquarter dovecot
A handsome rectangular dovecot with a heraldic panel
dated 1647 over the entrance doorway.
• At Westquarter, near Laurieston. Access off
the A803 on the Linlithgow to Laurieston road
into Westquarter, then into the west end of
Dovecot Road
• NS 913 787
52 | central and west
central and west | 53
The Great Kitchens
46
stirling castle
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most
celebrated visitor attractions. For centuries
Scotland’s kings and queens held court here
and revelled in its beauty and grandeur.
The Castle’s Royal Palace has been
impressively returned to its Renaissance glory
and is the crown in the visitor experience!
Visitors will be met by costumed characters,
from royalty to servants and court officials,
who will share all the intrigue and politics
of the Stewart royal court and show visitors
around the stunning royal apartments.
Other highlights include the Great Hall,
Chapel Royal, Great Kitchens and the
Regimental Museum of the Argyll &
Sutherland Highlanders.
enjoying a visit
The refurbished palace is at the heart of the visitor
experience with its lavishly decorated rooms and
costumed characters. Visitors can also discover the
original Stirling Heads in our Gallery on the upper floor.
Visit the castle exhibition in the Queen Anne Gardens
which brings the castle’s history to life. Families will
particularly enjoy the interactive displays and activities
in the palace vaults including dressing in period costume
and playing medieval instruments.
Explore the vaults
explore the
colourful
of the
history
royal palace
Our specially-designed Access Gallery allows disabled
visitors to experience areas within the castle which
are inaccessible and we also have a courtesy vehicle
for those who have difficulty with steep inclines.
visit
•
•
•
•
Leave M9 at Junction 10 and follow local road signs
Postcode FK8 1EJ
Telephone 01786 450000
Open all year seven days a week. 1 April-30
September 9.30am to 6pm. 1 October-31 March
9.30am to 5pm. Last ticket sold 45 mins before
closing. Regimental Museum opening times vary –
please check website for details
• Admission: Adult £14.50 Child £8.70
Concession £11.60
• Car parking charge for members is £2 from April
to September and free from October to March
★★★★★
gifts & refreshments
Our three shops sell a wide range of gifts, souvenirs,
whisky, books, clan tartans and jewellery. The Unicorn
Café offers a delicious menu of hot and cold food and,
during summer, The Pentice terrace café provides
sandwiches, home baking and refreshments.
Interactive displays
Image
Marvel at the spectacular
Stirling Heads
Try out our interactive games
and discover the stories behind
the Stirling Heads at
www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk
the kingdom of fife | 55
Aberdour Castle
the kingdom
of fife
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
aberdour castle
and gardens
1
Fir
th
of
This splendid ruin was once the luxurious Renaissance
home and pleasure gardens of Regent Morton, in his
heyday Scotland’s most powerful man. Aberdour was
originally built as a fortified residence in the 1100s,
making it one of the oldest stone castles in the country.
The fine painted ceiling dates from the 1600s.
Tay
Newburgh
9
10
Cupar
8
11
St Andrews
12
FIFE NESS
14
FIFE
Anstruther
Leslie
Glenrothes
3
Kirkcaldy
Cowdenbeath
DUNFERMLINE
Kincardine
2
4
• In Aberdour, 8m E of the Forth Bridges
on the A921
• NT 192 854
• Postcode KY3 0SL
• Telephone 01383 860519
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Railway station is a short walk from the castle
• The tea room (open summer only) offers a wide
range of homemade cakes and scones and, in
summer, visitors can enjoy lunch at our picnic tables
• Self service tea/coffee available in winter
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
7
★★★★
FIRTH OF FORTH
5
2
1
13
Inverkeithing
6
N
0 Kilometres
0 Miles
culross abbey
The remains of a Cistercian monastery founded in
1217. These are ruins of the nave, cellars and domestic
buildings. The eastern parts of the abbey church are
the present parish church and are not in the care of
Historic Scotland.
Inchcolm
10
20
10
30
20
• At the head of the village of Culross off the A985.
Access by foot from nearby parking on the shores
of the Forth
• NS 989 862
• Open summer only
3
dogton stone
Once a splendid free-standing cross probably of 9th
century date. All that now remains is a much weathered
fragment, best appreciated when appropriate lighting
conditions highlight the surviving decoration.
• In a field at Dogton farmhouse, 1.5m Eason
of Cardenden railway station off the B9222.
Not signposted • NT 236 968
dunfermline abbey
and palace
4
5
Admire one of Scotland’s most impressive medieval
interiors and most important royal sites, founded as
a priory in about 1080. Robert the Bruce was buried
in the medieval choir, now beneath the Abbey Church
of 1821. St Margaret and David I are among the other
monarchs interred here. Charles I was born in the
palace that grew up alongside the abbey.
Look for grand architecture, elaborate carvings,
a painted vault of the 1500s, beautiful stained glass
windows and displays of sculpture.
The Abbey Church and Abbot House are not managed
by Historic Scotland but are open to the public.
For further details visit www.dunfermlineabbey.co.uk
or www.abbothouse.co.uk
• In Dunfermline off the M90 • NT 090 873
• Postcode KY12 7PE • Telephone 01383 739026
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday.
Abbey Church (not Historic Scotland) closed
October-April. As the Abbey Church is not in the
care of Historic Scotland opening times may vary.
Call 01383 739026 for details
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
56 | the kingdom of fife
the kingdom of fife | 57
Inchcolm Abbey
St Andrews Castle
inchcolm abbey
and island
6
Escape by boat to this remarkable island, home to one
of the most complete medieval abbeys in Scotland.
It was supposedly founded by King Alexander I after
he was stranded here in 1123.
Step inside the near-complete cloisters and chapter
house, learn more in the visitor centre and drink in
views over the Firth of Forth from the bell tower.
Elsewhere on the island are wartime fortifications.
Look out for seals from the ferry. Access to parts
of the island may be restricted between May and August
when some seabirds aggressively protect their young.
No water supply for drinking or washing on the island.
• On Inchcolm in the Firth of Forth
• Postcode EH30 9TB (Hawes Pier,
South Queensferry)
• NT 189 826
• Telephone 01383 823332 or 07836 265146
• Access by ferry: Forth Tours on 0870 118 1866,
www.forthtours.com or Maid of the Forth on
0131 331 5000, www.maidoftheforth.co.uk
• Open April to October
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
The ferries are not operated by Historic Scotland
and a charge will apply. Please show membership
card when purchasing tickets to ensure the abbey
entrance fee is deducted
★★★★
7
ravenscraig castle
Begun in 1460 by Queen Mary of Gueldres, the widow
of James II, this formidable castle consists of two robust
round towers linked by a cross range with further
buildings on the promotory. View exterior only.
• On the eastern outskirts of Kirkcaldy,
off the A955 Dysart Road
• NT 290 924
8
st andrews castle
For centuries, the residence of Scotland’s most
powerful churchmen. Some of its remarkable secrets
are hewn into the rock beneath its battlements.
You can explore a unique underground mine and
countermine, dug during the brutal siege of 1546–7.
You can also gaze into the gloomy bottle dungeon in
which prisoners were confined.
The castle stands on a headland looking out into the
North Sea. A home to bishops, archbishops and a
cardinal, it was in the thick of the struggle for hearts
and minds during the Protestant Reformation.
• In St Andrews on the A91
• NO 512 169
• Postcode KY16 9AR
• Telephone 01334 477196
• Open all year
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
• Joint ticket with the cathedral: Adult £8.00 Child
£4.80 Concession £6.40
★★★★
St Andrews Cathedral
9
St Bridget’s’ Kirk
st andrews cathedral
The magnificent medieval ruins stand on a site used
for Christian worship since the 8th century, when the
relics of St Andrew were reputedly brought here. The
cathedral dominated the religious establishment until the
Protestant Reformation in 1560. Climb St Rule’s Tower for
a glorious view over the streets and sands of St Andrews.
An important collection of early Christian stone carvings
is displayed in the museum.
• In St Andrews on the A91
• NO 513 166 • Postcode KY16 9QL
• Telephone 01334 472563
• Open all year
• St Rule’s Tower may be closed during high winds
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
• Joint ticket with the castle: Adult £8.00 Child £4.80
Concession £6.40
12
st andrews: west port
One of the few surviving city gates in Scotland, built
in 1589 and renovated in 1843. View exterior only.
• At the junction of South Street with Bridge Street.
Not signposted • NO 506 165
13 st bridget’s kirk,
dalgety
The shell of a medieval church, much altered in the 17th
century for Protestant worship. On the west end
is a burial vault with laird’s loft above, built for the Earl
of Dunfermline.
• On the shores of the Forth, 2m SW of Aberdour
off the A921. On the fife coastal path (between
Aberdour and Dalgety Bay). Not signposted
• NT 169 838
★★★★
st andrews:
blackfriars chapel
10
A vaulted side aisle survives of this church of Dominican
friars, which was built in about 1516. View exterior only.
• In South Street opposite junction with Bell Street.
Not signposted • NO 507 165
st andrews: st mary’s
church, kirkheugh
11
The scanty foundations of a small cruciform church on
the edge of the cliff behind the cathedral. It became the
earliest collegiate church in Scotland. Destroyed at the
Reformation in 1560.
• On the coastal path to the pier and just north
of St Andrews Cathedral. Not signposted
• NO 515 166
14
scotstarvit tower
Probably built in the 15th century and re-modelled in
the 17th century. Renowned as the home of Sir John
Scot, author of ‘Scot of Scotstarvit’s Staggering State
of the Scots Statesmen’. It is a particularly handsome
and well-built tower. Views of the exterior throughout
the year.
• 3m south of Cupar off the A916
• NO 370 112
• Access: Call Hill of Tarvit Mansionhouse on
01334 653127 for information on internal access
(summer only)
• No parking at the tower, but visitors can park at the
Hill of Tarvit Mansionhouse (approx. 1 mile away)
perthshire, kinross and angus | 59
Aberlemno Sculptured Stones
perthshire,
kinross
and angus
aberlemno
sculptured stones
1
Magnificent group of Pictish sculptured stones: three
stand alongside the B9134 and one, a cross-slab with
interlaced decoration, Pictish symbols and a battle
scene is in the churchyard. All are covered with wooden
boxes from 1 October-31 March to protect them from
the elements.
10 20 15
Loch Ericht
ANGUS
35
12
13
23
Dunkeld
Loch Tay
27
Forfar
4
DUNDEE
18
17
19
38
Fir
PERTH
16
26 28
32 Bridge
31
of Earn
Auchterarder
Milnathort
Kinross
2
5
8
21
t
f
ho
Tay
7
Lunan
Bay
33
9
36 37
PERTH
AND KINROSS
24
25
Glamis
34
Crieff
30
14
6
1
Kirriemuir
29
Aberfeldy
Edzell
Brechin
22
Pitlochry
Loch Rannoch
• On the B9134 in Aberlemno village 6m NE
of Forfar
• NO 522 555, NO 522 558, NO 522 559
Arbroath
11
Monifieth
Buddon Ness
3
2
abernethy round tower
0 Kms 10
0 Miles
20
10
30
20
3
Good views of the Firth of Tay which is a very important
area for birds, especially wintering wildfowl and waders.
• In the village of Abernethy off the A913 just E of
the Bridge of Earn
• NO 192 163
• Key available from the adjacent ‘Berryfields Tea
Room’ all year Wednesday to Monday and from
Museum of Abernethy Wednesday to Sunday,
May-September
the perfect gift
Give the gift of great days out with
a Historic Scotland Membership
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/member
arbroath abbey
Read the Declaration of Arbroath in the abbey
from which Scotland’s nobility proclaimed their
independence from England in 1320. Or listen to your
voice in the sacristy, which has one of the longest
echoes in the country. It once rang with the clamour
of ‘lunatics’ incarcerated here.
The abbey was founded in 1178 by King William
the Lion, who was buried here. You can learn more
about the famous declaration in the visitor centre.
• In Arbroath town centre on the A92
• NO 643 413 • Postcode DD11 1EG
• Telephone 01241 878756
• Open all year
• Wheelchair available
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
One of the two free-standing round towers of Irish style
surviving in Scotland, dating from the end of the 11th
century. Pictish symbol stone built into the tower.
See page 9 for more information:
N
Arbroath Abbey
★★★★★
4
ardestie earth house
A curved underground gallery 25m in length of Iron
Age date, now uncovered, that once formed the cellar
of a round house. Nearby Monifieth Bay is important
for birds, particularly sanderling and eider.
• 0.25m N of A92 off B962 to Monikie. Not signposted
• NO 502 344
• Open summer only
60 | perthshire, kinross and angus
Broughty Castle
5
balvaird castle
A late 15th century tower on an L plan, extended in 1567
by the addition of a walled courtyard and gatehouse.
Refined architectural details. View exterior only.
• About 6m SE of Bridge of Earn off the A912
• NO 169 115
brechin cathedral
round tower
6
One of the two remaining free-standing round towers
of the Irish type in Scotland, built in the late 11th century
with a remarkable carved doorway. Capped by
a stone roof added in the 15th century. View the exterior
of the tower. The adjacent church (not HS) houses
a magnificent collection of carved stones.
• In Brechin town centre off the A933 • NO 596 600
• View exterior only
7
broughty castle
Broughty Castle, built in the late 15th century, has
stunning views over the Tay. It houses a fascinating
museum operated by Leisure & Culture Dundee.
Good views of Monifieth Bay, important for wintering
wildfowl. Dolphins can occasionally be seen here.
• On the shores of the Tay in Broughty Ferry,
Dundee off the A930 • Postcode DD5 2TF
• Telephone 01382 436916
• Entry times vary from our standard hours. Please
telephone the site about opening times or visit
www.leisureandculturedundee.com/
broughty-castle
• Retail discount is not available
perthshire, kinross and angus | 61
Burleigh Castle
8
burleigh castle
The roofless ruin of a tower house of about 1500, with
a section of defensive barmkin wall and a remarkable
corner tower with a square caphouse corbelled out.
Visited by James IV. The grounds are open during
daylight hours. Call 01786 450 000 in advance to
request internal access.
• 0.5m E of Milnathort on the A911
• NO 128 045
• Summer only
9
carlungie earth house
A complex underground structure, 48m long,
of Iron Age date. Now uncovered.
• 1m E of Templehall off the B962. Not signposted
• NO 511 359
• Summer only
Dunkeld Cathedral
11
claypotts castle
An outstanding example of 16th century Scottish
architecture, which is both intact and little altered.
The castle owes its striking appearance to asymmetrical
square garret chambers corbelled out over two circular
towers at diagonally opposite corners. Built by John
Strachan between 1569 and 1588, and later owned
by ‘Bonnie Dundee’, John Graham of Claverhouse, it was
inhabited into the 19th century. External views only.
• Off the A92 E of Dundee at Claypotts Junction
• NO 457 319
• Call 01786 450 000 in advance to request an
internal viewing
12
dunfallandy stone
An exceptionally well-preserved Pictish cross-slab with
ornate decoration including human figures, Pictish
symbols, zoomorphic designs and interlace. Covered
by a protective enclosure.
• 1m S of Pitlochry off the A924. Signed off Bridge
Road, Pitlochry
• NN 946 564
caterthuns
(brown and white)
10
Two spectacularly large hill forts. The Brown Caterthun
is defended by four earth ramparts and ditches,
and the White has a massive stone rampart, a ditch
and outer ramparts.
• About 5m E of the village of Inchbare off the B966
Brechin to Edzell road
• NO 555 668, NO 547 660
• Open summer only
13
dunkeld cathedral
Beautifully situated on the banks of the Tay, the 15th
century nave and the tower are cared for by Historic
Scotland. The former choir now serves as the parish
church. A fine effigy of the Wolf of Badenoch
(Robert III’s brother) is on display here.
• In the village of Dunkeld off the A9 • NO 023 426
• Tours by friends of Dunkeld Cathedral can be booked
via their website: www.dunkeldcathedral.org.uk or
by phoning 01350 723222
• No signposting within Dunkeld
Edzell Castle
14
eassie sculptured stone
An elaborately sculptured Pictish cross-slab with
an intricate cross, angels, animals, warrior,
Pictish symbols and three hooded figures. Covered by
a protective enclosure.
• In the ruined church of Eassie, W of Glamis
off the A94
• NO 352 474
• Not signposted
15 edzell castle
and garden
The refined beauty of Edzell was a statement of the
prestige of its owners, the Lindsays. The stylised
walled garden was created in 1604. Resplendent with
heraldic sculptures and carved panels, the architectural
framework surrounding the garden is unique in Britain.
The garden also includes walled flower and nesting
boxes and a delightful summer house.
• At Edzell 6m N of Brechin on the B966
• Postcode DD9 7UE
• Telephone 01356 648631
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
• Wheelchair available
★★★★
62 | perthshire, kinross and angus
Elcho Castle
16
perthshire, kinross and angus | 63
Huntingtower Castle
elcho castle
This is a castle to explore. Parade up the grand staircase
or scurry up the service stair, venture into the
well-appointed kitchen and admire the views over
the countryside from the high battlements.
This remarkably complete house of the 1500s was
the country retreat of the wealthy Wemyss family.
Its orchard has been replanted with traditional varieties
of apple, pear and plum and has become a haven
for butterflies and wildlife.
• 5m NE of Bridge of Earn off the A912 and
close to Rhynd
• NO 164 210
• Postcode PH2 8QQ
• Telephone 01738 639998
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
fowlis wester
sculptured stone
17
A tall cross-slab with Pictish symbols, figural scenes
and ornate decoration. The original is now in the parish
church; a replica stands in the square.
• At Fowlis Wester, 6m NE of Crieff off the A85
• NN 927 240
18
huntingtower castle
Colonies of bats may now fly around the castle’s
twin tower houses, but legend holds that a
love-struck maiden once made the perilous leap
between them. Find out more as you explore the
many rooms of this castle, which boasts a fabulous
painted ceiling of the 1500s.
• Just west of Perth off the A85 to Crieff
• NO 082 251 • Postcode PH1 3JL
• Telephone 01738 627231
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
19
innerpeffray chapel
Find traces of the pre-Reformation worship and a painted
celestial ceiling in this beautiful, rural church. It housed
Scotland’s first lending library, now in a Georgian building
next door, which is in the care of the Mortification
Charitable Trust.
www.innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk
• Off the B8062 midway between Crieff
and Auchterarder
• NN 902 183
• Open daily in summer and when the library
is open in March and October
20
lindsay burial aisle
A small burial aisle built in the 1500s.
Exterior view only.
• In Edzell graveyard off the B966, 1m north of
Edzell Castle. Not signposted • NO 582 688
Lochleven Castle
21
Meigle Sculpture Stones
lochleven castle
A boat will ferry you to one of Scotland’s oldest castles,
where Mary Queen of Scots spent a traumatic year.
Probably built in the early 1300s, it was visited by
Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Independence.
During Mary’s captivity here, she miscarried twins
and was forced to abdicate. You can see the room where
she was probably held until her dramatic escape in 1568.
Look out for the waterfowl from the ferry.
• On an island in Loch Leven reached by boat
from Kinross off the M90 (weather permitting)
• NO 137 017
• Postcode KY13 8UF
• Telephone 01577 862670
• Open Apr-Oct daily 10am to last outward sailing
at 4.15pm. Oct last outward sailing 3.15pm
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
• Contact site for sailing times or to book boat
• No water supply for drinking. Hand sanitiser available
for hand-washing
• Boat trip to island included in admission price
★★★
22 maison dieu chapel,
brechin
Part of the south wall of a chapel, belonging to a
medieval hospital founded in the 1260s; has finelydetailed doors and windows.
• In Maison Dieu Lane, Brechin off the B9134.
Not signposted
• NO 596 600
meigle sculptured
stone museum
23
The museum at Meigle displays 26 Pictish carved stones
dating from the late 8th to the late 10th centuries.
Making up one of the most important collections of
early medieval sculpture in Western Europe, they are all
that survives of a centre of Pictish wealth and patronage.
• In Meigle 6m SE of Glamis off the A94
• Postcode PH12 8SB
• Telephone 01828 640612
• Open summer only
• Guided tours available. Contact site for details
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
• Visit our website: www.pictishstones.org.uk
★★★★
muthill old church
and tower
24
The interesting ruins of an important medieval
parish church. At its west end is a tall Romanesque
tower. The remainder of the church is mostly of
15th century date. View exterior only.
• In Muthill, 3m SW of Crieff off the A822
• NN 867 170
25
restenneth priory
The chancel and tower of the priory church of
Augustinian canons. The lower part of the tower
is very early Romanesque work.
• 1m NE of Forfar off the B9113 Brechin Road
• NO 482 516
64 | perthshire, kinross and angus
perthshire, kinross and angus | 65
St Serf’s Church and Dupplin Cross
St Mary’s Church
St Vigeans Sculptured Stones
Stanley Mills
roman site: ardunie
roman signal station
st mary’s church,
grandtully
st vigeans
sculptured stones
The site of a Roman watch tower, one of a series running
between Ardoch and the Tay, along the Gask Ridge and
dating to the first century.
A 16th century parish church with a finely painted
wooden ceiling illustrating heraldic and symbolic
subjects added in the 1630s.
• Take Trinity Gask Church Road out of Trinity Gask
and follow signposted footpath 1m
• NN 946 187
• 3m NE of Aberfeldy off the A827
• NN 886 505
Immerse yourself in the enigmatic beauty of Pictish art.
Displayed and interpreted inside a converted cottage,
this is one of the most important collections of Pictish
Christian stones. It includes the Drosten Stone, which
carries a remarkable inscription and includes a hooded
hunter and a squatting imp.
26
27 roman site:
black hill camps
Parts of the defences of two Roman marching camps,
probably dating to the early 3rd century.
• 0.5m N of Braco off the A822 Crieff road just
past the junction with the B827 Comrie road.
Not signposted
• NN 840 109
29
30
st orland’s stone
A tall, Pictish cross-slab with a prominent, ornate cross
and, on the reverse, Pictish symbols, a hunting scene
and a very rare depiction of a boat.
• 4.5m W of Forfar off the A926. Not signposted
• Unsuitable for vehicles
• No access through adjacent field
• NO 400 500
★★★★★
stanley mills
31 32
Get hands-on in one of our most dynamic sites.
Picturesquely sited on the banks of the Tay, Stanley Mills
were founded to process cotton at the height of the
Industrial Revolution in the 1780s, repeatedly adapted to
changes in the textile industry, and finally closed in 1989.
placed inside one of Scotland’s oldest complete parish
churches. The Dupplin Cross is an ornate freestanding
cross 2.5m high that names a Pictish king and depicts
warriors, animals and a harp player. It stands in the
12th century tower of a church whose legendary
founder slew a dragon on this spot.
There are superb interactive displays and games that help
you to experience working life here. Find out if your fingers
are as nimble as a child labourer’s – or whether you can
match the business acumen of a mill-owner. Listen to the
Gaelic poetry and stories of the displaced Highlanders who
worked here after losing their homes in the Clearances.
st serf’s church
roman site: muir o’ fauld and the dupplin cross
roman signal station
Look in wonder at a Pictish masterpiece that has been
• Accessed by woodland footpath 1m NE of Trinity
Gask off the B8062 Crieff to Auchterarder road.
Not signposted
• NN 982 189
35
• 1m N of Arbroath off the A92 to Montrose
• Postcode DD11 4RB • Telephone 01241 878756
• Open by appointment only. Telephone nearby
Arbroath Abbey on 01241 878 756 for details
• On the Arbroath Path Network
• No photography within museum
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
• Visit our website: www.pictishstones.org.uk
34
28
The site of a 1st century Roman watch tower on the Gask
Ridge. Red squirrels are in the woodland; osprey and red
kites are often seen.
33
• In Dunning Village on the B9141 from the A9
• Postcode PH2 0RG • Telephone 01764 684497
• Open summer only
• Guided tours available, please phone site for details
• Donations welcome
★★★
• 7.4m N of Perth, follow signs for Stanley Mills
• Postcode PH1 4QE • Telephone 01738 828268
• Open Apr-Sep 9.30am to 5.30pm and Oct 10am to
4pm. Last entry 1 hour before closing
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
• Last entry 1 hour before closing
★★★★★
sunnybrae cottage
Possibly the oldest house in Pitlochry. Remarkably,
it has the remains of a cruck framed roof construction,
with most of its last thatch still surviving beneath the
later corrugated iron roof. External view only.
• 156 Atholl Road, Pitlochry on the A924
The northernmost house
• NN 936 583
36 37 tealing dovecot
and earth house
An elegant dovecot of the late 16th century standing
in a modern farmyard. A short walk leads to the remains
of an earth house, or souterrain, of Iron-Age date, a
curving underground passage, now uncovered. Re-used
stones with Bronze-Age rock carvings can be seen in its
walls. Limited parking in farmyard beside dovecot.
• Close to the village of Balgray 5m N of Dundee
off the A90
• NO 412 381
• Open summer only
38
tullibardine chapel
One of the most complete and unaltered small
medieval churches in Scotland, founded in 1446 and
largely rebuilt about 1500. Much architectural detail
has survived.
• 2m NW of Auchterarder off the A823 Crieff road
• NN 909 134
• Open summer only
north and grampian | 67
Balvenie Castle
north and
grampian
1
Bridge of Oich
ardclach bell tower
A remarkable little fortified bell tower built in 1655
on the hill above the parish church of Ardclach.
Durness
23
12
47
Thurso
Tongue
31
32
Latheron
Kinbrace
• 9m S of Nairn. Signposted off the A939 to
Grantown on Spey
• NH 953 453
• Telephone 01667 460232
John O’
Groats
Wick
8
Ullapool
Golspie
49
50
7
Uig
Dingwall
Achnasheen
22
33
28 27
Forres
17
INVERNESS
14
51
39
21
Aviemore
Invergarry
13
Kingussie
45
Mallaig
Braemar
35
Dalwhinnie
Fort William
N
0 Kms10
0 Miles
20
10
30
20
Dufftown
20
34
Huntly
48
29
41
18
16
Alford
Fraserburgh
Peterhead
• 2m S of Dufftown on the A941
• NJ 348 376
• Telephone 01667 460232
52
40
5
36
54
42
Turriff
44
2
MORAY
Shiel Bridge
6
19
38
Keith
3
Grantown
on-Spey
55
Banff
26
Elgin
1
11
4
Portree
30
Nairn
auchindoun castle
The castle crowns a lonely hilltop with dramatic views
over the surrounding hills. Built about 1480, it still
retains fine architectural details and is surrounded
by the ramparts of an Iron Age hillfort. Access on
foot only, route is steep and can be wet at times.
9
Bonar Bridge
HIGHLAND
beauly priory
The roofless church of a Valliscaulian priory, which
houses the tombs of a renowned McKenzie clan chief
and Fraser Lords of Lovat.
• In Beauly on the A862 • NH 527 464
• Telephone 01667 460232
• Open all year
10
2
Lairg
4
53
Inverurie
25
43
ABERDEENSHIRE
37 24
15
46
ABERDEEN
Stonehaven
3
balvenie castle
Defended by a magnificent curtain wall and an iron yett,
Balvenie was a stronghold of the powerful Black Comyns,
rivals to Robert the Bruce in the early 1300s. It ultimately
became the Renaissance residence of the Earls of Atholl,
who built the Atholl Lodging with its grand circular tower.
• At Dufftown off the A941
• NJ 326 408
• Postcode AB55 4DH
• Telephone 01340 820121
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
5 brandsbutt
symbol stone
An early Pictish symbol stone with an ogham inscription.
• About 1m NW of Inverurie off the A96
• NJ 759 224 • Telephone 01667 460232
6
bridge of oich
James Dredge designed this splendid suspension
bridge over the River Oich in 1854. It was built using
a sophisticated patented design of double cantilevered
chain construction with massive granite pylon arches
at either end.
• 4m S of Fort Augustus on the A82
• NH 338 035 • Telephone 01667 460232
7
burghead well
A well cut from the solid rock, once enclosed within
a major Pictish coastal fort. Its purpose is unknown
but may have been ceremonial.
• In King Street, Burghead on the B9013. Signposted
at the north end of Grant Street in the village
• NJ 110691 • Telephone 01667 460232
• Access: Key available from the Burghead Visitor
Centre, Easter to September and ‘The Bothy Bistro’,
Grant Street, all year
68 | north and grampian
north and grampian | 69
Castle of Old Wick
8
cairn o’get
Corgarff Castle
11
clava cairns
A horned and chambered burial cairn of Neolithic date,
located in an area of much archaeological interest.
Access can be wet.
A well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery complex
of passage graves, cairns and standing stones in a
beautiful setting.
• 1.5m SW of Ulbster on the A9. 0.75m from
car park to site via black and white poles
• ND 313 411
• Telephone 01667 460232
• 6m E of Inverness. Signposted from the B9091,
300 yards E of Culloden Battlefield
• NH 752 439
• Telephone 01667 460232
9
carn liath
cnoc freiceadain
long cairns
12
A fine example of an Iron Age Broch, surviving
to first-floor level, with associated settlement.
Visitors should take care crossing the main road.
A pair of Neolithic long-horned burial cairns. Access is up
an occasionally-muddy incline.
• By the A9, 3m ENE of Golspie
• NC 870 013
• Telephone 01667 460232
• 6m WSW of Thurso on A836
• ND 013 654
• Telephone 01667 460232
Corrimony Chambered Cairn
Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery
corrimony
chambered cairn
dallas dhu
historic distillery
An excavated passage grave of probable Bronze-Age
date, defined by a stone kerb and surrounded by a circle
of 11 standing stones.
Discover the whisky-making process in this Victorian
distillery, which has seen only limited development since
it opened in 1898. Dallas Dhu suffered frequent setbacks
before finally closing in 1983, but its mixed fortunes
have helped preserve its distinctive features. Take an
audio-guided tour, wander at your leisure through this
fascinating building and enjoy a free dram afterwards.
14
• In Glen Urquhart, 8.5m W of Drumnadrochit
off the A831
• NH 383 303
• Telephone 01667 460232
15
cullerlie stone circle
A circle of eight stones enclosing an area consecrated
by fires on which eight small cairns were later built.
About 4,000 years old.
17
• 1m S of Forres off the A940
• NJ 035 566
• Postcode IV36 2RR
• Telephone 01309 676548
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
• 0.75m S of Garlogie off the B9125
• NJ 786 042
• Telephone 01667 460232
★★★★
18
10
castle of old wick
The ruin of the best-preserved Norse castle in Scotland.
Dating from the 12th century this spectacular site is
on a spine of rock projecting into the sea, between two
deep, narrow gullies. Visitors must take great care and
close child supervision is required.
• 1m S of Wick on Shore Road, sign posted from
Wick town centre
• ND 368 487
• Telephone 01667 460232
13
corgarff castle
An isolated tower house in the Cairngorms that was a
residence of the high-status Forbes family. After Culloden
in 1746, it was converted to become a Redcoat garrison
fortress, largely to suppress Jacobite activity. Adaptations
and additions included the distinctive star-shaped
perimeter wall. The reconstructed barrack rooms offer
a window into military life in the late 1700’s.
• 8m W of Strathdon on the A939 • NJ 254 086
• Postcode AB36 8YP
• Telephone 01975 651460
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★
16
culsh earth house
A well-preserved underground passage, with roofing
slabs intact over the large chamber and entrance.
About 2,000 years old.
• At Culsh, 1m E of Tarland on the B9119
• NJ 504 054
• Telephone 01667 460232
deer abbey
A ruined Cistercian monastery that replaced a site
whose monks wrote the oldest surviving Gaelic text,
The Book of Deer.
• 2m W of Mintlaw on the A950
• NJ 968 481
• Telephone 01667 460232
19
deskford church
The ruin of a small late medieval church with a richly
carved sacrament house of a type characteristic of
NE Scotland.
• 4m S of Cullen on the B9018 to Keith
• NJ 509 616
• Telephone 01667 460232
70 | north and grampian
north and grampian | 71
Duff House
20
Dun Beag
duff house
24
dyce symbol stones
This magnificent Georgian mansion designed by
William Adam, contains a collection of important works
from the National Galleries of Scotland.
Two Pictish stones, one with incised symbols and
the other with symbols accompanied by a cross
and decoration.
• In Banff • NJ 690 633
• Postcode AB45 3SX • Telephone 01261 818181
• Admission: Adult £7.10 Child £4.30 Concession £5.70
• Open all year. Apr-Oct seven days a week 11am to
5pm, Nov-Mar Thur-Sun 11am to 4pm
• Visit the website: www.duffhouse.org.uk
• 0.75m N of Kirkton off Aberdeen Airport ring
road in ruined church
• NJ 875 154 • Telephone 01667 460232
★★★★★
21
duffus castle
One of the finest examples of a 12th century motte
and bailey castle in Scotland with a very fine early
14th century stone hall house and curtain wall.
25 easter aquhorthies
stone circle
A recumbent stone circle about 4,000 years old.
Car parking nearby.
• 1m W of Inverurie on the A96
• NJ 732 207 • Telephone 01667 460232
• 5m NW of Elgin on the B9012 to Burghead
• NJ 189 672 • Telephone 01667 460232
26
22
dun beag
A fine example of a Hebridean broch, apparently
occupied up to the 18th century.
• 0.25m W of Bracadale, Skye off the A863
• NG 339 385 • Telephone 01667 460232
23
dun dornaigil
Also known as Dun Dornadilla, a well preserved broch with
a distinctive entrance, standing to a height of 6.7 metres.
• 10m S of Hope, Sutherland off the A838
• NC 457 450 • Telephone 01667 460232
elgin cathedral
Enjoy some peace among the magnificent ruins of this
sacred place, which dates to the 1200s. Admire the
glorious west front, the sumptuous decorations and
the atmospheric chapter house. There are spectacular
views from the towers.
An unruly nobleman burned the cathedral in 1390,
and during the ferment leading to the Protestant
Reformation of 1560 it was the scene of a violent attack.
• In Elgin on the A96 • NJ 222 630
• Postcode IV30 1HU • Telephone 01343 547171
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
• Joint ticket with Spynie Palace available:
Adult £7.20 Child £4.40 Concession £5.80
★★★★
Fort George
fort george and the
highlanders’ museum
27
March into Britain’s mightiest artillery
fortress for an unforgettable experience.
You can explore an enormous military base
protected by almost 1.6km (1 mile)
of massive walls. You can gain an insight
into life as a Redcoat in a garrison fortress,
built in 1748–69, that has barely changed
in almost 250 years of active service.
You could also join one of our Dolphin
Watches, scouring the Moray Firth for its
resident population of bottlenose dolphins.
highland stronghold
Fort George was built after the final Jacobite Rising was
crushed at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Strategically
positioned on a promontory jutting into the Moray Firth,
it was designed as the ultimate bulwark against further
unrest. But its sophisticated defences were never tested.
Although the Highlands have remained peaceful ever
since, the fort has retained its garrison. It is still a working
army barracks today, housing a regular infantry battalion
of the British Army.
ready for inspection
There is much for visitors to see including defences
bristling with cannon, historic barrack rooms, a superb
collection of weapons and the peaceful Regimental
Chapel that holds many old colours or battle flags.
The recently-refurbished Highlanders’ Museum tells
the stories of three of the four regiments that came
together to make up the Highlanders Battalion of the
Royal Regiment of Scotland.
living history
Witness history brought to life at the Fort in our summer
series of costumed performances and experience a
flavour of what life was like in Scotland’s past. In August,
our award winning event ‘Celebration of the Centuries’
returns with a cast of over 250 performers, from
Romans to WWI soldiers.
your visit
The fort shop sells a wide selection of gifts, souvenirs,
quality books and jewellery while our café serves
traditional, Scottish home-baking.
Fort George is large and mostly open to the elements
– please allow plenty of time for your visit. Mobility
scooters are available on request.
• 6m W of Nairn, 11m NE of Inverness off the A96
• NH 762 567
• Postcode IV2 7TD
• Telephone 01667 460232
• Open all year. Last ticket sold 45 mins before closing.
Café operates limited hours in winter
• Wheelchairs available
• Admission: Adult £8.50 Child £5.10
Concession £6.80
★★★★
72 | north and grampian
north and grampian | 73
Fortrose Cathedral
28
fortrose cathedral
The south aisle of the nave and chapter house survive
at this beautiful red sandstone cathedral at Fortrose.
• In Fortrose on the A832
• NH 727 565 • Telephone 01667 460232
29
glenbuchat castle
Huntly Castle
32
hill o’ many stanes
More than 190 low stone slabs are arranged in rows
down a hillside. Raised more than 3,000 years ago,
their purpose and meaning is a mystery.
• At Mid Clyth, 4m NE of Lybster on A9
• ND 295 384 • Telephone 01667 460232
A Z-plan tower house built in 1590. Its last laird,
John Gordon, Old Glenbuchat, was a notable Jacobite.
hilton of cadboll
chapel
• 6m W of Kildrummy on the A97
• NJ 397 148 • Telephone 01667 460232
• Site closed during 2015 for essential maintenance
– limited viewing of external elevations is available
The foundations of a small rectangular chapel and,
nearby a modern carved reconstruction of the famous
Pictish cross-slab found on the site. The original stone’s
main portion is in the Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
glenelg brochs: dun
telve and dun troddan
• 8m SE of Kyle of Lochalsh. Turn off at Shielbridge
on the A87 onto unclassified road to Glenelg
• NG 829 172 • Telephone 01667 460232
31
grey cairns of camster
Two fully excavated and restored chambered burial
cairns of Neolithic date. There is access to chambers.
• 5m N of Lybster on the A9. Monument situated
5m along unclassified road
• ND 260 441 • Telephone 01667 460232
35
• In village of Hilton off the B9166, 12m NE
of Invergordon
• NH 873 768 • Telephone 01667 460232
34
huntly castle
With elaborate heraldry, carved fireplaces and refined
décor, this palatial residence was a declaration of the power
and wealth of the noble Gordon family. It stands on the site
of a motte and bailey castle built in about 1190.
Robert the Bruce granted Huntly to the Gordons after
the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. There were many royal
visits, although in 1594 James VI had part of the tower
house blown up after suppressing a rebellion.
• In Huntly off the A96 • NJ 532 407
• Postcode AB54 4SH • Telephone 01466 793191
• Open all year. Winter closed Thursday and Friday
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★
Kinnaird Castle
inverlochy castle
A fine well-preserved 13th century castle of the Comyn
family, in the form of a square courtyard, with round
towers at the corners. The largest tower was the donjon
or keep. It is one of Scotland’s earliest stone castles.
• 2m NE of Fort William off the A82
• NN 121 755
33
30
Two broch towers, standing more than 10 metres high,
with well-preserved features. Set in beautiful surroundings.
Kildrummy Castle
36
kildrummy castle
Possibly built or adapted by the invading English
king Edward I, the great castle of Kildrummy was the
stronghold of the earls of Mar. Although ruined,
it remains a good example of a 13th century castle
with many fine features.
• 10m SW of Alford on the A97
• NJ 455 164
• Postcode AB33 8RA
• Telephone 01975 571331
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
37
kinkell church
The ruins of a 16th century parish church, with fine
sacrament house dated 1524, and the grave slab of
Gilbert de Greenlaw, killed at the Battle of Harlaw
in 1411.
• 2m S of Inverurie off the B993 to Whiterashes.
Follow unclassified road to Mill of Fintray
• NJ 785 190
• Telephone 01667 460232
kinnaird head castle
lighthouse and the
museum of scottish
lighthouses
38
Built for the Fraser family, this fine 16th century castle
was altered in 1787 to incorporate the first lighthouse
built by the Commissioners of the Northern Lighthouses.
Guided tours available.
• On a promontory in Fraserburgh on the A92
• Postcode AB43 9DU • NJ 999 675
• Telephone 01346 511022
• Members’ retail discount not applicable. EH and
CADW not applicable
• Please telephone for up-to-date opening hours
and admission prices
39
knocknagael boar stone
A rough slab incised with the Pictish symbols of a mirror
case and a wild boar.
• In The Highland Council Offices, Glenurquhart
Road, Inverness on the A82 • NH 657 413
• Telephone 01667 460232
• Available during Council Office opening hours
of 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday
40
loanhead stone circle
The best known of a group of recumbent stone
circles, enclosing a ring cairn. Beside it is a small burial
enclosure. It is over 4,000 years old.
• Near Daviot, 5m NW of Inverurie.
Signed off the A920
• NJ 747 288 • Telephone 01667 460232
74 | north and grampian
north and grampian | 75
Picardy Symbol Stone
41
maiden stone
A Pictish cross-slab of 9th century date, on one side
it bears a cross and on the other, a variety of Pictish
symbols. From the end of October to end of March
there is a protective cover on the stone to minimise
frost damage.
• Near Chapel of Garioch, 4.5m NW of Inverurie on
the A96 • NJ 703 247 • Telephone 01667 460232
42
memsie cairn
A large stone-built cairn, possibly of Bronze-Age
date, enlarged during field clearance over the last
two centuries.
• 3.5m S of Fraserburgh on the B9032 0.5m
SW of Memsie Village
• NJ 976 620 • Telephone 01667 460232
43
peel ring of lumphanan
Ruthven Barracks
45
ruthven barracks
An infantry barracks erected in 1719 following the
Jacobite rising of 1715. Captured and burnt by Prince
Charles Edward Stuart’s army in 1746.
• 1m from Kingussie. Signposted from the A9 and the A86 in the centre of Kingussie
• NN 764 997 • Telephone 01667 460232
46 st machar’s cathedral
transepts
The nave and towers of the cathedral remain in use as a
church and the ruined transepts are in care. In the south
transept is the fine tomb of Bishop Dunbar (1514-32).
• In Old Aberdeen
• NJ 939 087 • Telephone 01667 460232
st mary’s chapel,
crosskirk
47
This great earthwork of 13th century date was the site
of a fortified residence, perhaps a hunting lodge of the
mighty Durward family.
A simple dry-stone chapel, probably of 12th century
date. Access can be muddy.
• 0.5m SW of Lumphanan off the A980
• NJ 576 036 • Telephone 01667 460232
• 6m W of Thurso on the A836
• ND 025 701 • Telephone 01667 460232
44
picardy symbol stone
One of the oldest, simplest, Pictish symbol stones,
possibly of 7th century date.
• 8m S of Huntly off the A96 to Raes of Inch
(2nd road on the left)
• NJ 609 302 • Telephone 01667 460232
48 st mary’s kirk,
auchindoir
One of the finest medieval parish churches in Scotland,
roofless but otherwise entire.
• Off the A944 between the villages of Rhynie
and Lumsden on the B9002
• NJ 477 244 • Telephone 01667 460232
Spynie Palace
Tolquhon Castle
st peter’s kirk and
parish cross, duffus
49
The roofless remains of the kirk include the base of
a 14th century western tower, a 16th century vaulted
porch and some interesting tombstones. The cross is
of 14th century date. Keys available from the Old Manse.
Please follow signs at site for key keeper.
• 0.5m E of village of Duffus. Signposted from the
B9012 in the centre of the village
• NJ 175 686 • Telephone 01667 460232
50
spynie palace
For nearly 500 years, the bishops of Moray relaxed
in this majestic building a short distance from their
cathedral at Elgin. It even had its own bowling green
and, according to one account, a tennis court.
Today, you can climb David’s Tower, where bishops
once entertained kings and queens.
• 2m N of Elgin off the A941 • NJ 230 658
• Postcode IV30 5QG • Telephone 01343 546358
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
• Joint ticket with Elgin Cathedral available:
Adult £7.20 Child £4.40 Concession £5.80
52
• In Tarves kirkyard, 15m NNW of Aberdeen on
the A920
• NJ 871 313 • Telephone 01667 460232
53
sueno’s stone
At over 6m high, Scotland’s tallest sculpted standing
stone. Its carvings include rare battle scenes, suggesting
it may mark a Pictish victory of the 10th century.
• Signposted from B9011 when heading south
from Forres
• NJ 046 595 • Telephone 01667 460232
tolquhon castle
Sitting within spacious grounds, Tolquhon has been
described as one of the most beautiful castles in
Scotland. Sir William Forbes, who adapted and
expanded an existing tower house in the 1580’s,
intended it to be an impressive residence,
though he incorporated plenty of gunloops to deter
any hostile visitors.
This is a great building to explore, including a secret
compartment in the laird’s quarters where he hid
his valuables.
• 15m N of Aberdeen on the A920
• NJ 872 286
• Postcode AB41 7LP • Telephone 01651 851286
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
★★★★
51
tarves medieval tomb
A fine altar tomb of William Forbes, the laird
who enlarged Tolquhon Castle. The carving is
a remarkable survival.
54
tomnaverie stone circle
A recumbent stone circle about 4,000 years old.
• Near Mill of Wester Coull, about 3m NW
of Aboyne on the B9094
• NJ 486 034 • Telephone 01667 460232
76 | north and grampian
north and grampian | 77
Explore the castle grounds
55
urquhart castle
Discover 1,000 years of drama, experience
a glimpse of medieval life and enjoy stunning
views over Loch Ness from the ruins of the
greatest castle in the Highlands.
Climb the Grant Tower that watches over
the iconic loch, peer into a miserable
prison cell, said to have held the legendary
Gaelic bard Domhnall Donn, and imagine
the splendid banquets staged in the great
hall. A panoramic view of the iconic ruins,
against a backdrop of Loch Ness
and the hills of the Great Glen, can be
enjoyed from the café.
Discover the stories
Enjoy views over Loch Ness
Enjoy shopping
telling tales
gifts & refreshments
Urquhart’s stories are also told through a remarkable
collection of artefacts left by its residents, historic
replicas, including a full-sized, working trebuchet siege
engine, and a short film.
Our café offers a cold deli, light meals and a wide range
of homemade cakes and scones as well as hot and cold
drinks. The castle shop sells a wide selection of gifts,
souvenirs, quality books and jewellery.
highland heritage
visit
The castle has a distinctly Highland heritage and the site
has witnessed some of the most dramatic chapters
in our nation’s history. This is where St Columba is said
to have worked miracles in the 6th century, where acts
of chivalry and defiance provided inspiration during the
Wars of Independence and where the MacDonald Lords
of the Isles struggled with the Crown for power.
• On Loch Ness near Drumnadrochit on the A82
• Postcode IV63 6XJ
• Telephone 01456 450551
• Open all year seven days a week. 1 April -30
September 9.30am to 6pm. 1-31 October 9.30am
to 5pm. 1 November -31 March 9.30am to 4.30pm.
Last entry 45 mins before closing
• Admission: Adult £8.50 Child £5.10 Concession £6.80
• Please show Membership card when purchasing
Jacobite Cruise tickets, to ensure Urquhart Castle
entrance fee is deducted
access
The visitor centre is fully accessible and there is a
photographic guide for those who have mobility issues.
Mobility scooters are available on request.
Image
General view of a
fine 15th-century
bronze water-jug,
Urquhart Castle.
★★★★★
the western isles | 79
The Blackhouse
the
western
isles
Port of Ness
1
3
2
NORTH
UIST
Leverburgh
Stornoway
• In Arnol village, Isle of Lewis, 14m NW of
Stornoway on the A858
• NB 310 492
• Postcode HS2 9DB • Telephone 01851 710395
• Open all year. Summer closed Sunday. Winter closed
Sunday and Wednesday.
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
Tarbert
SOUTH
HARRIS
5
Rodel
★★★★★
SOUTH
UIST
N
0 Kms 10
0 Miles
Lochboisdale
BARRA
dun carloway
Stand within the towering drystone walls of one of the
best-preserved broch towers in Scotland.
• 1.5m S of Carloway, about 16m NW of Stornoway,
Lewis on the A858 • NB 189 412
• Telephone 01851 710395 (The Blackhouse, Arnol)
4
kisimul castle
Best-preserved medieval castle in the Western Isles,
seat of the chiefs of Clan Macneil of Barra.
• In Castlebay, Isle of Barra, reached by small boat
from Castlebay (5 min trip, weather permitting)
• NL 665 979 • Postcode HS9 5UZ
• Telephone 01871 810313 • Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
• Admission includes boat trip
calanais standing
stones
BENBECULA
4
3
2
Lochmaddy
Castlebay
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 whitehouse
and a ruined blackhouse can also be seen. The Visitor
Centre has interpretative displays and a shop.
There are Gaelic speaking staff on site.
6
LEWIS
1
Kisimul Castle
20
10
30
20
A cross-shaped setting of standing stones erected
around 3000 BC. The Visitor Centre at Calanais is
managed by The Standing Stones Trust.
• 12m west of Stornoway off the A859, Isle of Lewis
• NB 213 330
• Postcode HS2 9DY • Telephone 01851 621422
• www.calanaisvisitorcentre.co.uk
• Members’ retail discount not applicable
• Site open free all year, seven days a week. Please
telephone for up to date opening hours and
admission prices for visitor centre.
5
st clement’s church
A fine 16th century church, built by the 8th Chief
MacLeod and containing his richly-carved tomb.
• At Rodel, Harris on the A859 • NG 046 831
• Telephone 01851 710395 (The Blackhouse, Arnol)
steinacleit cairn
and stone circle
6
The remains of an enigmatic structure of prehistoric date.
• On the south end of Loch an Duin, Shader,
Lewis, NW of Stornoway on the A857 to Ness.
Access can be muddy • NB 396 540
• Telephone 01851 710395 (The Blackhouse, Arnol)
orkney | 81
Bishop’s Palace
orkney
Dennis Head
North
Ronaldsay
18 17
20
24
Papa Westray
25
The North Sound
Westray
35
Sanday
Westray Firth
26
19 32
22
5
13
Mainland
Stromness
Egilsay
Wyre
7
Stronsay Firth
Shapinsay
NORTH
SEA
31
9
33
34
Sanday Sound
Stronsay
8
6
28
29
3
4
30
Eday
Rousay
23
14
21
27
15
2
Step inside the spectacular ruins of two remarkable
residences at the heart of Kirkwall. The medieval Bishop’s
Palace was built in the 1100s at about the same time as
St Magnus Cathedral. King Hakon of Norway died within
its walls after an indecisive battle with the Scots at Largs
in 1263.
In the early 1600s, the Bishop’s Palace was incorporated
into a refined Renaissance palace commissioned by
Earl Patrick Stewart, one of Orkney’s most notorious
rulers. The Earl’s Palace was reputedly built using
slave labour.
• In Kirkwall on the A960
• HY 448 108
• Postcode KW15 1PD
• Telephone 01856 871918
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
★★★★
Neolithic burial cairn, similar in general shape and
subdivisions to the contemporary Neolithic houses
at Knap of Howar. There is access to chamber.
Scapa Flow
16
2
3 blackhammer
chambered cairn
11 12
Hoy
the bishop’s palace
and earl’s palace, kirkwall
1
Kirkwall
36
1
10
Broch of Gurness
• On B9064 on Island of Rousay 2m W of pier
• HY 414 276
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
South
Ronaldsay
Burwick
Pentland Firth
N
Island of
Stroma
0 Kilometres
0 Miles
10
20
10
30
20
For information about ferries between
the Orkney Islands call Orkney Ferries
on 01856 872044
or visit www.orkneyferries.co.uk
4
broch of gurness
Explore this once mighty Iron Age settlement, with a
small village arranged around a central, massive broch
tower. Defended by two rock-cut ditches and a rampart,
this was clearly a place of power.
Look across Eynhallow Sound, once lined with brochs,
to make out another well-preserved example at
Midhowe, and perhaps glimpse minke and killer whales.
• At Aikerness, 14m NW of Kirkwall on the A966
• HY 381 268
• Postcode KW17 2NH
• Telephone 01856 751414
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
★★★★
5
brough of birsay
When the tide permits, you can cross the causeway
to this historic island. It was a place of local and perhaps
regional importance, first for the Picts and later for
Norse settlers.
The remains of the Norse settlement include a ruined,
Romanesque church that was a place of pilgrimage into
the Middle Ages. This is also a great place to hunt among
the rockpools, collect shells and watch puffins gathering
on the rocks in early summer.
• On a tidal island at Birsay, 20m NW of Kirkwall
off the A966. Check tide tables at Skara Brae
• HY 239 285
• Postcode KW17 2LX
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
• Open when tides permit mid-June to 30 September
• Causeway may be slippery when wet
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
82 | orkney
orkney | 83
Click Mill, Dounby
6
click mill, dounby
The last surviving horizontal water mill in Orkney,
of a type well represented in Shetland and Lewis.
Access can be muddy.
• 2.5m from Dounby on the B9057 to Evie village
• HY 325 228
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
cubbie row’s castle
and st mary’s chapel, wyre
7
8
This is one of the earliest stone castles to survive
in Scotland, built in about 1145 by the Norseman
Kolbein Hruga (‘Cubbie Roo’). It is a small rectangular
tower enclosed by a circular ditch. The nearby ruined
chapel is of late 12th century date, in Romanesque style.
• On the island of Wyre 0.5m from pier
• HY 442 264
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
Hackness Martello Tower and Battery
10
A low mound covering a Neolithic chambered tomb
with four cells. Contained the bones of men, dogs and
oxen when discovered. Access to chambers by crawling
– torch supplied. Access can be muddy.
• 0.5m S of Finstown on B9056 from Kirkwall
• HY 364 128
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
14
eynhallow church
A huge block of sandstone in which a Neolithic burial
chamber has been cut. Access is very muddy.
Ruined 12th century monastic church and
post-medieval domestic buildings.
• Towards the N end of Hoy, 3.5m from Rackwick
• HY 244 005 • Telephone 01856 841815
(Skara Brae)
• On the island of Eynhallow. Can only be reached by
private hire boat from mainland Orkney or Rousay
• HY 359 289
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
earl’s bu and church,
orphir
11 12
The foundations of an early medieval building, which may
be an earl’s residence in the Viking period. The church is
of 12th century date, and consists of the chancel and part
of the nave of one of only two medieval round churches
in Scotland. Parking nearby.
• 8m WSW of Kirkwall on the A964 to Houton
and Orphir • HY 334 0435
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
13
9 cuween hill
chambered cairn
dwarfie stane
earl’s palace, birsay
This expansive Renaissance palace was built for Robert
Stewart, Earl of Orkney, the unruly illegitimate halfbrother of Mary Queen of Scots. Built in the 1570’s,
it comprised of four ranges of buildings around a central
courtyard. Much of the fabric survives.
• In Birsay on the A9665 • HY 248 277
• Telephone 01856 721205 or 01856 841815
(Skara Brae)
For information about ferries between
the Orkney Islands call Orkney Ferries
on 01856 872044
or visit www.orkneyferries.co.uk
15
Knap of Howar
holm of papa westray
chambered cairn
17
A massive tomb with a long, narrow chamber divided
into three, with 14 beehive cells opening into the walls.
There are engravings on the walls. Access to chamber.
• On the island of Holm of Papa Westray.
Reached by private boat hire from Papa Westray
• HY 509 518
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
grain earth house
A well-built Iron Age earth house or underground
chamber, supported on stone pillars. Keys available
from Judith Glue Shop, 25 Broad Street, Kirkwall.
18
knap of howar
• About 1m NW of Kirkwall in Hatston Industrial
Estate off the A965 • HY 442 117
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
Probably the oldest standing stone houses in Europe,
dating from the early Neolithic period. Two houses,
approximately rectangular, with stone cupboards
and stalls. This site is contemporary with the chambered
tombs of Orkney.
hackness martello
tower and battery
• On the island of Papa Westray about 0.25m
W of Holland Farm
• HY 483 519
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
16
These defensive installations are remarkable remnants
of war. They were built in 1813–14 to protect British
convoys during the Napoleonic Wars, and adapted
during later conflicts. The Martello Tower – one of only
three surviving in Scotland – allows views towards
Scapa Flow, a naval anchorage during both world wars.
Inside you can learn about military life and the ceilidhs
and dances that locals held here.
• At the SE end of Hoy
• ND 338 912 • Postcode KW16 3PQ
• Telephone 01856 701727
• Open summer only
• Admission: Adult £4.50 Child £2.70 Concession £3.60
• When visiting please make your way to the Battery first
19 knowe of yarso
chambered cairn
An oval cairn with concentric walls enclosing a Neolithic
chambered tomb divided into three compartments.
Access to chamber.
• On the island of Rousay on the B9064,
3m from pier
• HY 404 279
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
84 | orkney
orkney | 85
Maeshowe Chambered Cairn
20
links of noltland
Extensive Neolithic and Bronze Age settlement and
home of the ‘Orkney Venus’, a 4,500 year old figurine
discovered here in 2009.
• On the Island of Westray
• HY 429 494
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
maeshowe
chambered cairn
21
Enter one of the finest Neolithic buildings in northwest Europe, a masterpiece of ancient engineering.
This chambered tomb, which sits on a platform
encircled by a ditch, is a monument to the skill
and beliefs of Orkney’s people some 5,000 years ago.
If you visit in midwinter – and the skies are clear –
you can witness the central chamber illuminated
by a shaft of light from the setting sun.
Maeshowe’s unique story continued when it was
broken into about 1,000 years ago by Norsemen.
They left their mark in the astonishing runic graffiti,
alongside the stunning ‘Maeshowe Lion’ carving.
Access by guided tour only, with timed ticketing.
Twilight Tours available from June to August.
Car parking and tickets at nearby Tormiston Mill.
• 9m W of Kirkwall on the A965 • HY 318 128
• Postcode KW16 3HH • Telephone 01856 761606
• Open all year
• Booking in advance is required, please telephone
to book
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30
Concession £4.40
★★★★
Midhowe Broch
22
midhowe broch
A well-preserved broch, with remains of later buildings
round it. As at Gurness, impressive evidence of the
internal appearance of houses survives. Very steep
access – follow the black and white poles.
• On the island of Rousay on the B9064, 5m from pier
• HY 371 308
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
midhowe
chambered cairn
23
A huge and impressive megalithic chambered tomb
of Neolithic date in an oval mound, with 12 stalls.
Now protected by a modern building. Very steep access
– follow the black and white poles.
• On the island of Rousay on the B9064, 5m from pier
• HY 372 306
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
Quoyness Chambered Cairn
25
The ruins of a medieval church with some finely
lettered tombstones.
• On the island of Westray in the village of Pierowall
• HY 438 487
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
26 quoyness
chambered cairn
A megalithic tomb with triple retaining walls, containing
a passage and main chamber, with six subsidiary cells.
Of Neolithic date. Access to chambers.
• On the island of Sanday on the southern point
of Els Ness, 2.5m from Kettlehoft village
• HY 677 378
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
27
24
noltland castle
A fine, ruined Z-plan tower, built between 1560 and
1573 but never completed. Remarkable for its large
number of gun loops and impressive staircase.
• On the island of Westray, 1m W of Pierowall
village
• HY 429 488
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
pierowall church
rennibister earth house
A good example of an Orkney earth house or
underground storage vault. Dates from around 400BC.
Access by ladder.
Ring of Brodgar Stone Circle and Henge
ring of brodgar stone
circle and henge
28
A magnificent circle of upright stones with an
enclosing ditch spanned by causeways, dating to the
late Neolithic period. Part of the Heart of Neolithic
Orkney World Heritage Site. Located between the lochs
of Harray and Stenness which are important for wildfowl,
particularly goldeneye, scaup, pochard and tufted duck.
A Ranger Service is available for guided walks.
Check online for details.
• About 5m NE of Stromness on the B9055
• HY 294 134
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
29 st magnus church,
egilsay
The complete but roofless ruin of a 12th century church
with a round tower, dramatically situated on the site
where St Magnus was martyred.
• On the island of Egilsay 0.5m from pier
• HY 466 304
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
• About 4.5m WNW of Kirkwall on the A965
• HY 397 127
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
For information about ferries between
the Orkney Islands call Orkney Ferries
on 01856 872044
or visit www.orkneyferries.co.uk
86 | orkney
orkney | 87
Inside the replica house
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
skara brae
prehistoric village
30
Step back 5,000 years to explore one of Europe’s
best-preserved prehistoric settlements. Once an
inland village beside a freshwater loch, Skara Brae
now looks out over a wide, sandy beach. Surrounded
by a stunning variety of wildflowers and birdlife,
a visit is an aesthetic treat.
The village was first uncovered during a storm
in 1850. Ever since, Skara Brae has been a place
of discovery for archaeologists, students,
artists and enthusiasts.
You can follow a path overlooking these ancient
buildings, still equipped with their stone furniture,
and step inside a replica house to appreciate the
lives of the Neolithic villagers. The visitor centre
has touch-screen presentations and contains many
artefacts discovered here.
In summer, our café offers a cold deli, light meals,
homemade cakes and hot and cold drinks.
From April to October, a joint ticket gives access to Skaill
House, Orkney’s finest mansion, built in the 1620s,
and the home of the man who discovered Skara Brae.
• 19m NW of Kirkwall on the B9056
• HY 231 188
• Postcode KW16 3LR
• Telephone 01856 841815
• Café open in summer, reduced service over winter please phone in advance
• Admission: (April-October) Adult £7.10 Child £4.30
Concession £5.70
(November-March: Skara Brae only) Adult £6.10
Child £3.70 Concession £4.90
• Last admission 4.45pm (summer) 3.45pm (winter)
• Members’ retail discount not applicable at
Skaill House
• Wheelchairs available
★★★★★
Stones of Stenness Circle and Henge
stones of stenness
circle and henge
31
The remains of a stone circle around a hearth,
surrounded by a circular earthen bank or henge.
Among the earliest monuments in the Heart of Neolithic
Orkney World Heritage Site. Ranger guided tours
available, summer only.
• About 5m NE of Stromness on the B9055
• HY 306 126
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
32 taversöe tuick
chambered cairn
A Neolithic chambered cairn with unusual arrangement
of two burial chambers, one above the other. Access to
chambers. Access can be muddy.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
34
unstan chambered cairn
A mound covering a stone burial chamber divided
by slabs into five compartments. Of Neolithic date.
Access to chamber.
• About 3.5m NNE of Stromness on the A965.
• HY 283 117
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
westside church,
tuquoy
35
This small and elegant 12th century nave-and-chancel
church, later became the parish church. Now roofless,
it was built by a wealthy Norse chieftain. The remains
of his farm can be seen in the adjacent cliff section.
• On the island of Westray 3m S of Pierowall
village.
• HY 455 432
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
• On the island of Rousay 0.5m W of pier.
• HY 426 276
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
wideford hill
chambered cairn
36
33
tormiston mill
An excellent late example of a Scottish watermill,
probably built in the 1880s. The waterwheel and most
of the machinery have been retained. Now forms
a reception centre for visitors to Maeshowe.
• About 9m W of Kirkwall on the A965
• HY 322 127 • Telephone 01856 761606
• Open all year
• Booking in advance is required, please telephone
to book
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
A fine Neolithic chambered cairn with three concentric
walls and a burial chamber with three large cells.
Access to chamber by ladder and crawling, torch
required. The 0.5 km hillwalk to the property can be
muddy. The walk has outstanding views.
• About 2m W of Kirkwall on the B9056, access
is off a minor road
• HY 409 122
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
shetland | 89
Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
shetland
1
clickimin broch
A good example of a broch tower with associated
secondary buildings of Iron-Age date.
• About 1m SW of Lerwick on the A970
• HU 464 408
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
2
fort charlotte
A five-sided artillery fort with bastions projecting from
each corner. The walls are high and massive. It was built
in 1665 to protect the Sound of Bressay from the Dutch,
but taken by them and burned in 1673. It was rebuilt
in 1781.
HERMA NESS
Unst
5
POINT OF
FETHALAND
• In centre of Lerwick • HU 475 415
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
jarlshof prehistoric
and norse settlement
5
muness castle
A late 16th century tower house with circular towers.
The northernmost castle in the British Isles.
• On Island of Unst 4m NE from pier at Belmont
off the A968 • HP 629 012
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
• Public toilets available in Uyeasound village
3
Yell
Fetlar
Yell Sound
SHETLAND
ISLANDS
Out Skerries
St Magnus Bay
Papa Stour
Mainland
NORTH
SEA
8
Walls
2
Scalloway
7
20
ness of burgi
A defensive stone-built blockhouse, probably of
Iron-Age date, with some features resembling a broch.
• At the SE point of Scatness, South Shetland off
the A970. Access is across rocks • HU 388 084
• Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
4
mousa broch
7
scalloway castle
A mansion built in 1600 by Patrick Stewart,
Earl of Orkney, who was notorious for his cruelty.
• In Scalloway, 6m from Lerwick on the A970
• HU 405 393 • Telephone 01856 841815
(Skara Brae)
• Key available from the Scalloway Hotel or the
Scalloway Museum
The finest surviving Iron-Age broch tower. It stands to
a height of over 13 metres. Long walk from ferry pier.
4
30
20
SUMBURGH 6
HEAD
★★★★
Lerwick
Bressay
N
10
• At Sumburgh Head, 22m S of Lerwick on the A970
• HU 399 095 • Postcode ZE3 9JN
• Telephone 01950 460112
• Open all year. Winter restricted opening hours.
Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae) for details
• Admission: Adult £5.50 Child £3.30 Concession £4.40
1
The Deeps
0 Miles
6
After touring the visitor centre, look out towards Fair Isle
and perhaps spot puffins nesting nearby.
Whalsay
0 Kilometres 10
Wander around a site where people lived for more than
4,000 years. There are remains of Bronze Age oval houses,
an Iron Age broch and wheelhouses, Viking longhouses,
a medieval farmstead and a laird’s house built around
1600. This enduring site is without parallel in Scotland
and helped inspire Sir Walter Scott’s novel The Pirate.
3
Mousa
• On the island of Mousa, accessible by boat from
Sandwick, about 14m S of Lerwick on the A970.
• HU 457 237
• Visit www.mousa.co.uk for ferry details
8
stanydale ‘temple’
A Neolithic hall, heel-shaped externally, and containing
a large oval chamber.
• 3m SW of Bixter on West Mainland off the A971.
Follow marker poles, route can be very wet
• HU 285 502 • Telephone 01856 841815 (Skara Brae)
90 | glossary
glossary | 91
For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places
Angles a Germanic tribe who invaded the British Isles in
the 5th century. England is named after them, but they
also conquered much of what is now southern Scotland.
Cistercians a monastic order founded at Citeaux,
Burgundy, by St Robert of Molesme in 1098. The first
Scottish house was established by David I at Melrose in 1136.
Anglian relating to the Angles.
Cluniacs the first of the reformed Benedictine orders,
founded in Burgundy in 910. Came to Scotland c 1145.
apse the rounded or polygonal eastern end of a church.
Augustinians a monastic order, established in the
later 11th century, whose canons followed the teaching
of St Augustine of Hippo (d. 430). The first Scottish
house was founded at Scone (Perthshire) by Alexander I
around 1120.
bailey the outer courtyard of a castle.
barbican a defensive forework protecting the entrance
to a castle.
barmkin (corruption of ‘barbican’) a courtyard
surrounding a tower house, defended by a perimeter wall.
bastion a defensive projection at the angle of a rampart.
Benedictines followers of St Benedict of Nursia.
The earliest monastic regimes followed the rule laid down
by St Benedict for his monks at Monte Cassino, southern
Italy, around 525. The first Benedictine house established
in Scotland was Dunfermline c 1070.
blockhouse a small fort or artillery fortification.
bombard a large medieval siege cannon.
broch a circular drystone tower used as a fort-dwelling in
prehistoric times.
brough a prehistoric settlement enclosed within a wall.
Bronze Age the prehistoric era during which copper and
tin were smelted and alloyed as bronze, but before iron
was used. In north-west Europe, the Bronze Age is usually
taken to mean around 2000 BC to around 700 BC.
cairn a burial mound constructed from stones, containing
one or more chambers.
canon a member of a body of clergymen serving a
cathedral or other church and living under a rule.
collegiate church a church endowed with canons
sometimes to provide masses for the souls of a
private patron.
coppice woodland carefully managed to provide a
continual supply of timber for charcoal, basket
making, etc.
corbel a projection from a wall which supports a beam
or similar structure.
cross-shaft the upright section of a standing cross.
cruciform cross-shaped: the conventional plan for a
Christian church.
cruck-framed constructed using a medieval technique
in which tiers of curved timber supports are used to form
the apex of the roof.
Dalriada (also spelled Dál Riata) a kingdom established
around AD 500 by the Celtic people known as Scots,
in what is now Northern Ireland, Western Scotland and
the Hebrides.
Dominicans the first order of friars, established at
Toulouse, south-west France, in 1215 by St Dominic.
Alexander II brought them to Scotland in 1230.
donjon the main tower of a medieval castle.
dovecot (or Scots ‘doocot’) a building to house doves
or pigeons.
drystone a building technique that does not use mortar.
earthworks a fortification, burial mound or other
construction created by excavating earth.
ecclesiastical relating to church buildings or procedures.
castellated (of a wall) built with indentations from which
a defender can fire weapons.
The ’45 (short for 1745) the last of the Jacobite Risings
which attempted to restore the Stewart dynasty to the
throne. It was led by Prince Charles Edward Stuart (‘Bonnie
Prince Charlie’), grandson of the deposed James VII & II,
and supported by many of the Highland clans. Following
defeat at Culloden in 1746, many Jacobites were
massacred. Charles eventually fled to France.
cenotaph a monument to the dead.
garret a chamber within the roof space of a building.
chancel the eastern section of a church or cathedral,
including the altar, sanctuary and choir.
gun hole, gun loop an opening in a defensive wall
through which a gun can be fired.
chapter house a meeting room for canons or monks.
gunstone a rough sphere of stone used as ammunition
for a cannon.
caphouse a roofed section at the top of a stairway that
leads to a parapet.
caponier a stone-built, covered gunhouse in a ditch.
choir the area of a chancel in front of the altar.
cist a burial chamber formed from stone slabs.
cloister the domestic ranges of a monastery, usually built
around a square garth or garden.
hammerbeam a technique used for constructing a large
timber roof, in which the beams are supported by curved
or diagonal braces.
henge typically refers to a circular enclosure defined by
a ditch and bank, often in association with a wood or
stone circle.
Iron Age the prehistoric era following the Bronze Age,
during which iron was used to create tools, weapons and
other items. In north-west Europe, the Iron Age is usually
taken to mean around 700 BC to around AD 400.
keep the main tower of a medieval castle.
kirk; kirkyard (Scots) a church; a churchyard.
Knights Hospitallers a monastic order of knights
introduced (along with the Knights Templars) into
Scotland by David I. Following the suppression of
the Templars in 1312, their properties passed to the
Hospitallers.
laird (Scots) a lord or landowner.
laird’s loft a gallery in a church set aside for the local
landowner and his family.
laird’s lug (literally ‘laird’s ear’) a hidden opening in
the wall of a public room which allowed the owner to
monitor conversations taking place within.
mascot an animal kept by a regiment to bring good luck.
megalith a huge stone forming part of a prehistoric
monument.
monastic relating to a religious order.
Reformation the emergence of Protestant Christianity
in northern Europe as a break from the Roman Catholic
church. In Scotland, this was formalised in 1560 with
the re-establishment of the Church of Scotland and the
founding of the Reformation Parliament, which rejected
papal authority.
regent an administrator who governs on behalf of a
monarch, usually because the latter is too young to rule.
Renaissance (literally ‘rebirth’) a period of great cultural
flowering which occurred throughout Europe in the 14th
to 17th centuries.
Romanesque (sometimes called ‘Norman’) a style of
architecture prominent in southern and western Europe
during the 10th, 11th and 12th centuries, characterised
by massive stone constructions and rounded arches.
rood a crucifix or Christian cross.
rood-screen an ornate structure in a church, made from
wood, stone or wrought iron, which divides the chancel
from the nave.
sacristy the antechamber of a church or chapel where
sacred vessels and vestments are stored.
nave the western section of a church, used by the
congregation.
Scots originally a Celtic tribe that established itself in
the north-eastern part of Ireland. The Scots became a
significant force in what is now Scotland around the 6th
century AD.
Neolithic era the late Stone Age, when agriculture began
to develop but metals were not used. In north-western
Europe, the Neolithic era is usually taken to mean around
4500 BC to around 2000 BC.
Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) a protected area
designated for conservation by Scottish Natural Heritage.
souterrain an Iron Age underground storage chamber,
probably associated with a house at ground level.
Norse relating to the Scandinavian peoples who raided
and invaded parts of Scotland and England from the 8th
to the 11th centuries. Norse settlers had a particular
influence on the culture of Orkney, Shetland and Caithness.
transept either of the northern and southern limbs of a
cruciform church, which transect the nave and chancel.
motte the mound on which a castle was built.
ogham a writing system used by some groups of
Celts, comprising straight lines drawn or carved at
varying angles.
palisade a fence built from stakes driven into the ground.
peel (Scottish Borders) a fortified tower.
Picts the native peoples who occupied much of what is
now Scotland during the first 10 centuries AD.
Premonstratensians a priestly monastic order founded
by St Norbert of Xanten at Prémontré, north-east France,
in 1121. First introduced to Scotland at Dryburgh in 1150.
rampart(s) the wall or embankment surrounding a
fortification.
Redcoat (informal) a soldier of the British army – the
name refers to the main colour of the uniform from the
17th to the late 19th century. Following the Jacobite
Risings of 1689–1746, Scottish Highlanders were
considered a threat to the Crown and garrisons of
Redcoats were stationed around northern Scotland.
Tironensians a monastic order founded near Chartres,
northern France, in 1109. The first of the reformed
Benedictine orders to establish a monastery in Great
Britain, at Selkirk, in 1113 (moved to Kelso 1128).
Trinitarians a monastic order founded near Paris in the
late 12th century, initially to raise ransoms for the release
of Christians held by non-believers during the Crusades.
Introduced to Scotland around 1240.
Valliscaulians a monastic order founded at Val des Choux,
eastern France, in the early 13th century. They established
three houses in Scotland around 1230.
Viking a Norse raider or invader of the 8th to 11th
centuries. Viking settlers are usually called Norse.
vaulted (of a ceiling) arched over in stone.
World Heritage Site a protected site designated by
UNESCO as having outstanding cultural and/or natural
importance.
yett (Scots) an open-barred iron gate.
zoomorphic (of art) representing animal figures
or symbols.
92 | index
index | 93
For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places
A
Aberdour Castle and Gardens
Aberlemno Sculptured Stones Abernethy Round Tower Achnabreck Rock Art Antonine Wall Arbroath Abbey Ardchattan Priory Ardclach Bell Tower Ardestie Earth House Ardunie Roman Signal Station Argyll’s Lodging Auchagallon Stone Circle Auchindoun Castle 53
57
57
46
33 & 41
57
41
65
57
62
41
34
65
B
Ballygowan Rock Art Baluachraig Rock Art Balvaird Castle Balvenie Castle Bar Hill Fort Barochan Cross Barsalloch Fort Bearsden Bath-House Beauly Priory Biggar Gasworks Museum Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, Kirkwall Blackhammer Chambered Cairn Black Hill Camps
Blackhouse, Arnol Blackness Castle Bonawe Historic Iron Furnace Bothwell Castle Brandsbutt Symbol Stone Brechin Cathedral Round Tower Bridge of Oich Broch of Gurness (Aikerness Broch) Brough of Birsay Broughty Castle Burghead Well Burleigh Castle 46
46
58
65
33
35
27
33
65
35
79
79
62
77
13
42
35
65
58
65
79
79
58
65
58
C
Cadzow Castle 36
Caerlaverock Castle 27
Cairn Holy Chambered Cairns 27
Cairn o’Get 66
Cairnbaan Rock Art
46
Cairnpapple Hill 13
Calanais Standing Stones 77
Cambuskenneth Abbey 42
Cardoness Castle 27
Carlungie Earth House 58
Carn Ban34
Carn Liath 66
Carnasserie Castle 46
Carsluith Castle 27
Castle Campbell and Gardens
42
Castlecary41
Castle of Old Wick 66
Castle Semple Collegiate Church 36
Castle Sween 42
Castlelaw Hill Fort 13
Caterthuns (Brown and White) 58
Chapel Finian 28
Chesters Hill Fort 13
Clackmannan Tower 43
Clava Cairns 66
Claypotts Castle 59
Click Mill, Dounby 80
Clickimin Broch 87
Cnoc Freiceadain Long Cairns 66
Corgarff Castle 66
Corrimony Chambered Cairn 67
Corstorphine Dovecot 13
Coulter Motte 36
Craigmillar Castle 14
Craignethan Castle 36
Crichton Castle 14
Crookston Castle 36
Cross Kirk, Peebles 23
Crossraguel Abbey 37
Croy Hill 33
Cubbie Row’s Castle and St Mary’s Chapel 80
Cullerlie Stone Circle 67
Culross Abbey 53
Culsh Earth House 67
Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn 80
D
Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery Deer Abbey Dere Street Roman Road, Soutra Deskford Church Dirleton Castle and Gardens Dogton Stone Doon Hill 67
67
23
67
14
53
14
Doune Castle 43
Druchtag Motte 28
Drumcoltran Tower 28
Drumtroddan Cup and Ring Marked Rocks 28
Drumtroddan Standing Stones 28
Dryburgh Abbey 23
Duff House 68
Duffus Castle 68
Dullatur 33
Dumbarton Castle 37
Dun Beag 68
Dun Carloway 77
Dun Dornaigil 68
Dunadd Fort 46
Dunblane Cathedral 43
Dunchraigaig Cairn 47
Dundonald Castle 37
Dundrennan Abbey 28
Dunfallandy Stone 59
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
53
Dunglass Collegiate Church 15
Dunkeld Cathedral 59
Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel 43
Dupplin Cross 62
Dwarfie Stane 80
Dyce Symbol Stones 68
E
Eagle Rock, Cramond Earl’s Bu and Church, Orphir Earl’s Palace, Birsay Eassie Sculptured Stone Easter Aquhorthies Stone Circle Edin’s Hall Broch Edinburgh Castle Edrom Church Edzell Castle and Garden Eileach an Naoimh Eilean Mor: St Cormac’s Chapel Elcho Castle Elgin Cathedral Eynhallow Church 15
80
80
59
68
23
16
24
59
44
44
60
68
81
F
Fort Charlotte Fort George Fortrose Cathedral Foulden Tithe Barn Fowlis Wester Sculptured Ston
87
69
70
24
60
G
Glasgow Cathedral Glebe Cairn, Kilmartin Glenbuchat Castle Glenelg Brochs:
Dun Telve and Dun Troddan
Glenluce Abbey Grain Earth House Greenknowe Tower Grey Cairns of Camster 37
47
70
70
28
81
24
70
H
Hackness Martello Tower and Battery Hailes Castle Hermitage Castle Hill o’Many Stanes Hilton of Cadboll Chapel Holm of Papa Westray Chambered Cairn Holyrood Abbey Holyrood Abbey – Abbey Sanctuary
Holyrood Park Huntingtower Castle Huntly Castle 81
18
24
70
70
81
18
18
18
60
70
I
Inchcolm Abbey and Island Inchkenneth Chapel Inchmahome Priory Innerpeffray Chapel Inverlochy Castle Iona Abbey and Nunnery Iona, MacLean’s Cross 54
44
44
60
71
45
45
J
Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement Jedburgh Abbey 87
25
K
Keills Chapel Kelso Abbey Kilberry Sculptured Stones Kilchurn Castle Kildalton Cross Kildrummy Castle Kilmartin Stones Kilmichael Glassary Rock Art
Kilmodan Sculptured Stones Kilmory Knap Chapel 45
25
45
45
45
71
47
47
48
48
94 | index
index | 95
For more information visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places
Kilpatrick Dun (or Cashel) 34
Kilwinning Abbey 38
King’s Knot 49
Kinkell Church 71
Kinnaird Head Castle Lighthouse
and The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses 71
Kinneil House48
Kirkmadrine Early Christian Stones 29
Kisimul Castle 77
Knap of Howar 81
Knocknagael Boar Stone 71
Knowe of Yarso Chambered Cairn 81
L
Laggangairn Standing Stones Lauderdale Aisle, St Mary’s Church Lincluden Collegiate Church Lindsay Burial Aisle Links of Noltland Linlithgow Palace Loanhead Stone Circle Loch Doon Castle Lochleven Castle Lochmaben Castle Lochranza Castle 29
19
29
60
82
19
71
38
61
29
34
M
Machrie Moor Stone Circles 34
MacLellan’s Castle 29
Maeshowe Chambered Cairn
82
Maiden Stone 72
Maison Dieu Chapel, Brechin 61
Mar’s Wark 49
Maybole Collegiate Church 38
Meigle Sculptured Stone Museum 61
Melrose Abbey 25
Memsie Cairn 72
Merkland Cross 30
Midhowe Broch 82
Midhowe Chambered Cairn 82
Morton Castle 30
Moss Farm Road Stone Circle 34
Mousa Broch 87
Muir o’Fauld Roman Signal Station 62
Muness Castle 87
Muthill Old Church and Tower 61
N
Ness of Burgi Nether Largie Cairns, Kilmartin
New Abbey Corn Mill Newark Castle Noltland Castle 87
47
30
38
82
O
Orchardton Tower Ormiston Market Cross 30
19
P
Peel Ring of Lumphanan Picardy Symbol Stone Pierowall Church Preston Market Cross 72
72
83
19
Q
Quoyness Chambered Cairn 83
R
Ravenscraig Castle Rennibister Earth House Restenneth Priory Ri Cruin Cairn Ring of Brodgar Stone Circle and Henge Rispain Camp Rothesay Castle Rowallan Castle Rough Castle Ruthven Barracks Ruthwell Cross 54
83
61
47
83
30
38
39
41
72
30
S
St Andrews Castle St Andrews Cathedral St Andrews: Blackfriars Chapel St Andrews: St Mary’s Church, Kirkheugh St Andrews: West Port St Blane’s Church, Kingarth St Bride’s Church, Douglas St Bridget’s Kirk, Dalgety St Clement’s Church St Machar’s Cathedral Transepts St Magnus Church, Egilsay St Martin’s Kirk, Haddington St Mary’s Chapel, Crosskirk St Mary’s Chapel, Rothesay 54
55
55
55
55
39
39
55
77
72
83
19
72
39
St Mary’s Church, Grandtully St Mary’s Kirk, Auchindoir St Ninian’s Cave St Ninian’s Chapel St Orland’s Stone St Peter’s Kirk and Parish Cross, Duffus St Serf’s Church and Dupplin Cross St Triduana’s Chapel, Restalrig
Collegiate Church St Vigeans Sculptured Stones Scalloway Castle Scotstarvit Tower Seabegs Wood Seton Collegiate Church Skara Brae Prehistoric Village Skelmorlie Aisle Skipness Castle and Chapel Smailholm Tower Spynie Palace Stanydale ‘Temple’ Stanley Mills Steinacleit Cairn and Stone Circle Stirling Castle Stirling Old Bridge Stones of Stenness Circle and Henge Sueno’s Stone Sunnybrae Cottage Sweetheart Abbey 62
72
30
30
62
73
62
20
63
87
55
41
20
84
39
49
25
73
87
63
77
50
49
85
73
63
31
T
Tantallon Castle Tarves Medieval Tomb Taversöe Tuick Chambered Cairn Tealing Dovecot and Earth House
Temple Wood Stone Circles, Kilmartin
Threave Castle Tolquhon Castle Tomnaverie Stone Circle Torhouse Stone Circle Tormiston Mill Torphichen Preceptory Torr a’Chaisteal Fort Torrylin Cairn Trinity House Maritime Museum
Tullibardine Chapel 20
73
85
63
47
31
73
73
31
85
20
35
35
21
63
U
Unstan Chambered Cairn Urquhart Castle 85
74
W
Wanlockhead Beam Engine 31
Watling Lodge (East and West) 41
Westerwood to Castlecary
(Garnhall Districk) 33
Westquarter Dovecot49
Westside Church, Tuquoy 85
Whithorn Priory and Museum 31
Wideford Hill Chambered Cairn 85
Historic Scotland has a number of sites in its care
that are not currently accessible to the public.
They include:
Dumfries and Galloway
Big Balcraig & Clachan Cup Mark Rocks
Castle of Park
Kirkconnel Stones
The Wren’s Egg Stone Circle
Edinburgh and Lothians
The Grounds, Mavisbank
North and Grampian
Invercauld Bridge
Knock Castle
Perthshire, Kinross and Angus
Affleck Castle, Monikie
Kirkhill Signal Station
St Serf’s Priory, Lochleven
96 |
| 97
Linlithgow Palace
plan your perfect
day out
Each of our attractions is unique and
promises a great day out with plenty to
see and do whatever your interests or age.
Make the most of your membership and
see how many you can visit in one day.
Here are just a few suggestions for great
places to visit in a part of Scotland near you.
Doune Castle
edinburgh and the lothians
Go back 5,000 years in one day with a historic tour around
West Lothian that takes in Blackness Castle, Linlithgow
Palace and Cairnpapple Hill.
the scottish borders
Use your membership to discover Melrose Abbey, Dryburgh
Abbey and Jedburgh Abbey – three of Scotland’s great
Border Abbeys.
dumfries and galloway
Enjoy a picnic lunch at Caerlaverock Castle, be inspired by
Sweetheart Abbey and marvel at the fully operating New
Abbey Corn Mill – all just a stone’s throw from Dumfries.
glasgow, clyde and ayrshire
For a day full of fun, explore the majestic Bothwell Castle,
stop off at the magical Cadzow Castle and its medieval
hunting park, then discover the hidden gem of
Craignethan Castle.
Caerlaverock Castle
Arbroath Abbey
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village
central and west
north and grampian
the kingdom of fife
orkney
Make it a trip to remember starting at Doune Castle, where
scenes from Monty Python and the Holy Grail were filmed,
then stopping in to admire Dunblane Cathedral. Round
off a top day at the breathtaking 15th century fortress of
Castle Campbell and Gardens.
See if you can make it to three of Fife’s top historic
attractions in one day, by taking in Aberdour Castle and
Gardens, Dunfermline Abbey and Palace, and St Bridget’s
Kirk in Dalgety Bay.
With so many castles, cathedrals and abbeys, you’re spoilt
for choice in North and Grampian. Try exploring the historic
heart of the north-east where you can visit Elgin Cathedral,
Huntly Castle and top off the day with a wee dram at Dallas
Dhu Historic Distillery.
From the 5,000 year old tomb at Maeshowe, to nearby
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village and the stunning Bishop’s and
Earl’s Palaces, experience all that historic Orkney has to offer.
perthshire, kinross and angus
Enjoy a short boat ride to Lochleven Castle where you can
follow in the footsteps of Robert Bruce and Mary Queen of
Scots. Then, admire Elcho Castle before finishing off a great
day at nearby Huntingtower Castle.
Lochleven Castle
Elgin Cathedral
98 | plan your perfect day out – map
Collect stamps at each site you visit
Edinburgh and the Lothians
Central and West
North and Grampian
1 Blackness Castle – p.13
2 Cairnpapple Hill – p.13
13 Castle Campbell and Gardens – p.42
14 Doune Castle – p.43
22 Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery – p.67
23 Elgin Cathedral – p.68
3 Linlithgow Palace – p.19
15 Dunblane Cathedral – p.43
24 Huntly Castle – p.70
The Scottish Borders
The Kingdom of Fife
Orkney
4 Dryburgh Abbey – p.23
5 Jedburgh Abbey – p.25
16 Aberdour Castle and Gardens – p.53
17 Dunfermline Abbey and Palace – p.53
25 The Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, Kirkwall – p.79
26 Maeshowe Chambered Cairn – p.82
6 Melrose Abbey – p.25
18 St Bridget’s Kirk – p.55
27 Skara Brae Prehistoric Village – p.84
Dumfries and Galloway
Perthshire, Kinross and Angus
7 Caerlaverock Castle – p.27
8 New Abbey Corn Mill – p.30
19 Elcho Castle – p.60
20 Huntingtower Castle – p.60
9 Sweetheart Abbey –p.31
21 Lochleven Castle – p.61
27
Glasgow, Clyde and Ayrshire
10 Bothwell Castle – p.35
11 Cadzow Castle – p.36
12 Craignethan Castle – p.36
26
25
N
Opening Times
Summer (1 April 2015-30 September 2015)
Monday to Sunday 9.30am-5.30pm.
Winter (1 October 2015-24 March 2016)
Monday to Sunday 10am- 4pm.
Some properties have special opening times,
these will be shown against their entry.
Shetland 150 miles
Last entry 30 minutes before closing (5pm in summer
& 3.30pm in winter), except at Dumbarton Castle, Fort
George, Linlithgow Palace & Skara Brae where it is 45
minutes before closing (4.45pm in summer & 3.15pm
in winter). Last entry to Stirling Castle is 45 minutes
before closing (5.15pm in summer & 4.15pm in winter).
Last entry to Urquhart Castle is 45 minutes before
closing (5.15pm Apr to Sept, 4.15pm in Oct & 3.45pm
Nov to Mar). Last entry to Edinburgh Castle is 1 hour
before closing (5pm in summer & 4pm in winter).
Some of our sites may close for a short period over lunch.
This will be marked next to their entry in the handbook.
Opening times and admission prices are correct at time
of publishing, but may be liable to change.
See page 10 for further information.
22 23
Very occasionally in the case of adverse weather
conditions a property may need to close at short notice.
In these instances please call the site before setting
off to confirm that it is safe to visit or check
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/hsclosure
24
key to symbols
Car Parking
Bus Parking
Toilets
Display on History
Visitor Centre
Restaurant/Café
Shop
20
14
15 13
3
1
19
Reasonable Wheelchair Access
21 16
Guided Tours – ask on site for details
17 18
Picnic Area
Disabled Toilets
Strong Footwear Recommended
2
10
11
Self Service Tea/Coffee
12
6
4
Accessible by Public Transport
5
Bicycle Rack
Dogs not Permitted
Children’s Quiz available
May be closed at lunchtime, please call
in advance (w) Winter only
9
8
VisitScotland Grading
7
Gold Green Tourism Business Award
Silver Green Tourism Business Award
Bronze Green Tourism Business Award
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Stand 2015
The Membership Team, Historic Scotland,
Longmore House, Salisbury Place, Edinburgh EH9 1SH
Telephone 0131 668 8999 | Email [email protected]
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk /member