Cover right to left:

Perthshire Amber the Dougie MacLean Festival Rob McDougall

Homecoming Scotland launch weekend, Dumfries Rob McDougall
The Connect Music Festival, Inveraray, Argyll VisitScotland /
Scottish Viewpoint
Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010 Steve Lindridge and Rebecca
Lee, iDEAL iMAGES
2013 Fairstone Scottish Amateur Championship, The Blairgowrie Golf
Club Kenny Smith Photography
Principal Photography VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint
Additional Photography:
Callum Bennetts @ Maverick Photo Agency, Chris Close, Adam Elder
/ Scottish Viewpoint,Glasgow City Council (Glasgow Museums),
Glasgow Life, Gleneagles Hotel, Steve Lindridge and Rebecca Lee,
iDEAL iMAGES, Colin Keldie / K4 Graphics, MacLeod Estate,
National Museums of Scotland, Photo Library / Britain on View /
Simon Winnall, Robert Pogson, Chris Robson, David J Whyte /
Linksland.com, The Wickerman Festival, Simon Williams
Product no. N14SMIUS
Published by VisitScotland, Edinburgh EH6 6JH
VisitScotland is the national tourism organisation of Scotland.
VisitScotland 2014
No material may be reproduced from this publication without prior
permission of VisitScotland.
VisitScotland is committed to ensuring that our environment,
upon which our tourism is so dependent, is safeguarded for
future generations to enjoy.
The information contained in this publication is as supplied
to VisitScotland and to the best of VisitScotlands
knowledge was correct at the time of going to press.
VisitScotland can accept no responsibility for any
errors or omissions. October 2013.

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www.visitscotland.com

The Clansmans Tug o war at the Lonach Highland Games, Aberdeenshire.

The warmest of welcomes awaits you in Scotland at historic castles such as

Stirling, among the grand Highland scenery of Glen Coe and Torridon, and right
out on the white sandy beaches of the Outer Hebrides. Choose to visit in 2014
for The Ryder Cup, for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, and for
Homecoming Scotland, a year-long programme of events and activities that will
showcase everything thats great about Scotland.

1 The PGA centenary golf course at Gleneagles, Perthshire.

1 Wickerman Festival, Dundrennan, Dumfries

and Galloway.

In winter, when snow dusts the

mountains, Homecoming Scotland 2014
begins with the warming cheer of a
traditional Hogmanay. Celebrations
continue in January in honour of Robert
Burns at The Big Burns Supper in
Dumfries, the worlds largest Burns Night
event with music, literature and dance.
Scotlands landscapes come alive with
wildlife during spring when its possible
to admire soaring puffins in the skies and
bottlenose dolphins swimming close to

shore. In April there will be nature events

held across the country during the John
Muir Festival, which commemorates the
Scots-born naturalist and founder of
Americas National Parks.
Summers long daylight hours lend
themselves to outdoor events such as
our unique Highland games. In July the
eyes of the world turn to Glasgow as it
hosts the XX Commonwealth Games
and in September The Ryder Cup golf
tournament in Gleneagles will welcome

Scotland. Welcome to our life.

golfers to The Home of Golf.

The beautiful autumn scenery provides
the perfect backdrop to events such as
the traditional music at Perthshire Amber
- the Dougie MacLean Festival, and
whisky tasting at the Autumn Speyside
Whisky Festival. Prepare to party as
winter returns and the famous festivities,
including Winter Festivals, get underway
again.

Alba. Filte gu ar digh-beatha.

1 Emirates Arena and Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, Glasgow.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Scotlands cultural spirit

What makes Scotland so distinctive? There are some things that are
uniquely Scottish but, in truth, theres no single element that defines the
country. Rather, its a subtle blend of our many different ingredients that
have been added to the mix down through the centuries. With a
year-round programme of festivals and events, the nation celebrates its
culture with spirit and style, in drama, song, poetry, dance and more.

1 Fiddling fun at the Orkney Folk Festival.

1 A Highland Dancing competition at the

Cowal Games, Dunoon, Argyll.

1 Bookshop sign from Wigtown,

home of the Wigtown Book

Festival, Dumfries and Galloway.

Scotlands culture certainly involves

reaching out. Thats why, for instance,
Glasgows Celtic Connections (held in
January) showcases both native talent
and also performers from across the
Celtic areas of Europe, while the city
becomes the centre of the world of
piping during the Piping Live!
International Piping Festival.
While high profile events such as the
Edinburgh International Festival, along
with the Fringe, Book and Film
Festivals and the stirring Military
Tattoo, inevitably command attention,

other parts of Scotland also stage

prestigious cultural events. For
example, the Perth Festival of the Arts
every May brings a huge choice of
music and other art forms to this
handsome Scottish town on the River
Tay. The annual Braemar Highland
Gathering in September is Scotlands
premier Highland games because of
the attendance of Britains royalty
but is only one event in a games
programme right across Scotland.

Musical get-togethers called ceilidhs

are often advertised locally in advance,
especially in smaller places. Ask your
accommodation provider or check
with your local VisitScotland
Information Centre. Folk music sessions
in local pubs can even happen
spontaneously, while at city venues
such as Hootananny in Inverness or
Ghillie Dhu in Edinburgh
regularly-changing programmes make
it easy to sample the vitality of
Scotlands musical culture.

Its easy to dip into Scotlands

traditional music in informal settings.

Turn to page 21 for a comprehensive list of events

from traditional music and festivals to Highland
games or check out www.visitscotland.com

1 Bannockburn Live: A feast of food, music and history, Bannockburn,

near Stirling.

Scotlands great cities Edinburgh

Edinburgh is pure theatre, with its spires and battlements, crags and
classical columns. From Edinburgh Castle, look over an exciting,
cosmopolitan European capital city, whose dramatic medieval and
elegant Georgian architectures have made it a World Heritage Site. It
is also UNESCOs first City of Literature.

1 A traditional music session in the

Royal Mile Tavern, Edinburgh.

1 The UKs only giant pandas at Edinburgh Zoo.

1 The Royal Yacht Britannia, Leith, Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline at dusk,

photographed from Salisbury Crags, Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle is at the heart of

the nations story, symbolised by the
Honours of Scotland Scotlands
Crown Jewels as well as the famous
Stone of Destiny, the ancient crowning
seat of Scottish monarchs. Edinburghs
Old Town is centred on the upper part
of the Royal Mile, a historic thoroughfare
linking the Castle with the Palace of
Holyroodhouse.
Though Castle and Palace head a long
list of heritage sites, museums and art
galleries, Edinburgh is a compact city.
Its easy to explore on foot or via an
excellent bus network. Explore the

revitalised port of Leith with its historic

waterfront and great choice of top
restaurants. Or take a walk through
Holyrood Park to discover another world,
the village of Duddingston tucked
behind Arthurs Seat. (One of Scotlands
oldest pubs is here too!)
There is also plenty to see within easy
reach of the city: for example,
panoramic views from the Pentland Hills
that overlook the city, the neo-classical
elegance of stately homes such as
Hopetoun House, and the wild beauty
of the East Lothian coastline.

Back in the city, August sees Edinburghs

cultural life at its most vibrant. The
Edinburgh International Festival and The
Edinburgh Festival Fringe are at the core
of this high-profile annual arts gathering.
However a year-round programme of
events means that there is always a great
festival atmosphere in the city.
Inspiration and creativity have always
thrived in Edinburgh. Its literary heritage
stretches back to before the days of
Sir Walter Scott and encompasses
contemporary writers such as JK Rowling
of Harry Potter fame.

For more on what to see and do in

Scotlands capital city, for accommodation,
clubs, bars, restaurants and retail therapy,
check out www.visitscotland.com

1 T.Rex, one of over 20,000 objects in the National

Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh.

Scotlands great cities Glasgow

Scotlands biggest city, Glasgow is a recognised centre for style,
design and architecture. It is upfront, stylish, full of life and
vitality a shoppers paradise as well as one of the friendliest
places you are ever likely to visit.

1 A piece of artwork on display in the Kelvingrove

Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow.

1 Ashton Lane, the heart of the West End,

generates an amazing atmosphere.

1 The Music Room in the House

for an Art Lover, Glasgow.

Exterior of the Riverside Museum and the Tall Ship,

Glasgow.

Often called Britains finest Victorian

city, Glasgows architecture reflects its
distinctive personality. The impressive
City Chambers is at its very heart, while
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
houses important art collections that have
made a major contribution to Glasgows
cultural life for over a century. An
unmistakable element of the citys style
is the work of Glasgow-born Charles
Rennie Mackintosh, a designer at the
forefront of Art Nouveau in Scotland.

The 21st century architecture of the
Riverside Museum displays a historic
transport collection: a reminder of how

Glasgow forged links across the world with

its ships and railway locomotives.
As a retail centre, Glasgow is matched
by few other British cities. Shop till you
drop at chic Princes Square, as well as
Sauchiehall Street, Buchanan Street and
the Merchant City district which together
make up Glasgows Style Mile.
In a typical week, more than 120 separate
musical events take place here more
than justifying its recognition as a UNESCO
City of Music. This non-stop, all-year,
high-energy music scene takes place in

venues that include traditional Scottish

pubs, clubs, world class auditoriums and
dedicated performance spaces cleverly
converted from distinguished city
buildings. ran Mr, with its exciting
music programme, is a good example.
In 2014 Glasgow welcomes athletes from
around the world as they compete in the
XX Commonwealth Games from
23 July 3 August. The opening of the
Games will coincide with the start of
Festival 2014, a celebration of music,
theatre and the arts, which will showcase
Glasgows vibrant cultural scene.

The Commonwealth Games have been

apermanent fixture in sport since 1930
andin 2014 you can be right in the
action,witnessing top athletes compete
for medalglory across 17 sports.The
excitementcontinues with the year-long
Culture2014 festival whichpromises a
fantastic creative celebration of music,theatre and the
arts.Keep up-to-date with news of the games at
www.visitscotland.com/glasgow-2014
1 Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010.

Dunrobin Castle, near Golspie, Sutherland, Highlands of Scotland.

Scotland a touring adventure at your own pace

The sheer variety of landscape and townscape which Scotland offers
makes touring especially rewarding. Lowland to Highland, east to west
without travelling great distances it is easy to experience breathtaking
mountain scenery, romantic lochs and glens and just enjoy the fact that
there are so many attractions on the way whatever takes your interest:
castles, standing stones, distilleries, gardens and lots more.

1 Mellerstain House, Berwickshire, Scottish Borders.

1 The fishing port of St Monans, Fife.

Its easy to travel around Scotland. In

addition to motorways and good main
roads, there is an excellent network of
lightly trafficked rural roads notably in
the Borders and Galloway, Fife, Angus,
Aberdeenshire and Moray.
If city based, or without your own
transport, then several operators offer
guided tours, day trips or longer, to
some of Scotlands finest landscapes. Its
a good way of viewing areas such as
beautiful Loch Lomond or the rugged
grandeur of Glen Coe.

Public transport, with its integrated train,

ferry and bus timetables, offers plenty of
options. For example, the unforgettable
rail journey from Fort William to Mallaig
offers stunning island views. Then take
the ferry to Armadale on Skye, bus to a
choice of island places, admiring the
awesome Cuillin Hills en route, before
returning to Glasgow or Edinburgh
via the Skye Bridge and Inverness.
Altogether, a straightforward itinerary
but so rewarding.

1 The sandy beach at Traigh an Iar, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides.

Independent travellers with their own

transport have an excellent choice of
signposted national tourist routes
and themed itineraries. The Galloway
National Tourist Route takes in the places
associated with Robert Burns, Scotlands
famous poet, as well as historic properties
such as Threave Castle. While touring,
check special discounts available through
schemes such as Historic Scotlands
Explorer Pass if visiting several historic
sites. Wherever you tour, look out for the
brown Thistle Signs by the road that
point the way to all kinds of walks, trails,
attractions and adventures.

1 Calanais Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis,

Outer Hebrides.

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changes in the detail given, or for any expense or loss thereby caused.
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Suggested Itineraries

nd

There are countless ways to explore Scotland. You can choose from 12 signposted
National Tourist Routes or our themed itineraries. Here are two examples.

Essential
Scotland

Ullapool. An afternoon is all you need for an

adventurous scramble on the little mountain
called Stac Polly.

So many options: scenic splendour,

castles, whisky, golf, ceilidhs, islands and
lots more, including Scotlands vibrant
cities. Capture the essence of Scotland in
this unforgettable journey.
Day 1
Explore Edinburgh, with its unrivalled cultural
choice and the Old Town at its historic heart.
Learn about Edinburghs place in Scottish
history at free museums such as the Peoples
Story Museum and the National Museum of
Scotland.

Day 7/8
From Ullapool, take the ferry to Stornoway in
the Outer Hebrides to view the mysterious
standing stones at Calanais. Strongholds of
Gaelic culture, these islands on the edge of
Europe are a romantic destination, with
dazzling beaches, big skies and spectacular
sunsets. Travel south to Tarbert, the economic
and political centre of Harris, and take the ferry
to Uig in Skye.

Day 2
Go north and east for St Andrews in Fife, via
the picturesque East Neuk fishing villages.
There are popular fish and chip shops
(Anstruther and Pittenweem) en route, and
famous cakes and sweetmeats in a St
Andrews bakery. Have a little adventure on the
Chain Walk at Elie too an exciting way of
exploring the rocky coastline.
Day 3
Travel north via Dundee to Aberdeenshire,
home to Scotlands official Castle Trail which
highlights 17 fine castles, ruins and stately
homes. Venture inside the boundaries of the
rugged Cairngorms National Park, where the
funicular railway offers great views of the UKs
highest summits.
Day 4/5
Head up the coast to Inverness and north to
the ferry port of Scrabster. A trip to Orkney by
ferry can extend your route by at least four
days. The Heart of Neolithic Orkney is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site including Skara
Brae and the standing stones of the Ring of
Brodgar. Pick up traditional crafts in the shops
of Stromness and follow signs for the Orkney
Craft Trail to see local artists at work. Take a
ferry to Shetland to see further prehistoric
monuments such as Mousa Broch and, like
Orkney, spectacular seabird colonies.
Otherwise continue west on the mainland to
explore the coastline and Smoo Cave. Stay
overnight at Durness.
Day 6
Turn south, crossing the Kylesku Bridge,
reaching Lochinver via the Drumbeg road.
Lochinver has an award-winning pie shop.
Continue through the wild landscape of
Inverpolly to rejoin the main road and reach

Day 9
Skyes rugged Cuillin Hills are best viewed by
heading south from Uig, continuing through
the islands capital Portree, and taking the
A863 at Sligachan. Paths head into the famous
hills from Glen Brittle. Nearby stands the iconic
Dunvegan Castle, the loch-side stronghold of
the Chiefs of MacLeod.
Day 10
Head south and take the B8083 to Elgol for
another breathtaking panorama, or travel down
to the 20,000 acre estate of Clan Donalds
Armadale Castle.
Cross Skye Bridge and travel south past Eilean
Donan Castle on Loch Duich. Head through
the Great Glen to Fort William, which sits
beneath Ben Nevis, the UKs highest
mountain. Pass through Glen Coe with its
piercing Three Sisters summits, and cross the
atmospheric Rannoch Moor. Journey through
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
to Stirlings hilltop castle, Old Town Jail and
striking Wallace Monument.
Day 11
From the Trossachs area, continue to Glasgow,
Scotlands largest city, with its great shopping,
nightlife and cultural options. Track down an
authentic ceilidh, a traditional Scottish get
together with dance and song.

Scottish
Island-hopping
Take a magical journey around some of
Scotlands most romantic islands. Each has its
own heritage and story to tell with its
rhythms linked to the regular comings and
goings of the ferries. An excellent network of
ferry services makes getting around
straightforward and will give you the freedom
to hop from island to island.

Day 1
Ardrossan is your departure point for the island
of Arran. Visit Brodick Castle and enjoy the
coastal circuit of the island, which is also noted
for its food producers.
Day 2
Start at Brodick for luxurious gifts from Arran
Aromatics, or pick up some tasty Isle of Arran
cheese from a local shop on your way to
Lochranza Castle. The shore-side castle is
associated with Robert the Bruce. Nearby, visit
Isle of Arran Distillery before departing for
Claonaig on the mainland. Head to Kennacraig
for the ferry to the island of Islay.
Day 3
Take in one of the famous malt distilleries such
as Ardbeg, Lagavulin and Laphroaig. Return to
the north end of the island by way of the Islay
Woollen Mill.
Day 4
Head for Port Askaig, passing Finlaggan, the
former site of the power base of the Clan
Donald, the Lords of the Isles. Distilleries such
as Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain are also close by.
Take the short ferry crossing for Jura, a wild
island with just one road and one distillery!
Day 5
Leave Islay for Kennacraig and take the road
north for Oban. Argyll boasts many restaurants
that serve locally sourced seafood as well as
freshwater Scottish salmon. Dine on freshly
caught fish by the port of Oban, the gateway
to the islands on the western seaboard, before
taking the ferry to the Isle of Mull.
Day 6
The Isle of Mull has many attractions, including
Duart Castle, home of the chiefs of the Clan
Maclean, which overlooks the Sound of Mull.
Tour westwards along the Ross of Mull for the
island of Iona, sometimes called the Cradle of
Christianity in Scotland.
Day 7
Make a tour of the rugged western seaboard
of Mull, by Loch Scridain and Loch na Keal,
then return to Tobermory to leave the island for
Kilchoan on Ardnamurchan. This rugged
peninsula almost an island leads out to
Ardnamurchan Point, the most westerly point
in the UK mainland.

These are just two possible

itineraries, but there are
many more routes
to download on
www.visitscotland.com

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Sea nds
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1 The Croft House museum, near Boddam, Shetland.

11

A flavour of Scotland
Scotlands dining scene is flourishing as more and more chefs realise the
potential of the quality ingredients that originate in Scotland. Grass-fed
beef and lamb from Aberdeenshire, venison from Highland hills,
whitefish from the North Sea, shellfish of all kinds from the pure
environment of the inshore waters of the western seaboard, game birds
such as pheasant these are just some of the choices for a main course.

1 Diners overlooking the harbour at Portpatrick,

Dumfries and Galloway.

1 Producing the local delicacy the Arbroath Smokie,

Arbroath, Angus.

1 The Strathisla Distillery, near Keith,

Moray.

Lady Claire Macdonald, broadcaster and cook, Isle of Skye, Highlands of Scotland.

Add soft fruits from Angus, greens

and herbs from productive fields and
kitchen gardens, plus traditional
ingredients such as oats, and it
becomes the basis for much kitchen
creativity and an authentically Scottish
modern cuisine.

fruit and spices); and a range of bakery

goods, most notably the buttery, close
relative of the French croissant!

However, good food is only one

element in Scottish hospitality. In a
country where looking after guests is
part of a long tradition, Scotland has a
Scottish fast food with a traditional slant superb choice of accommodation of all
kinds. Long-established country house
means fish and chips. The very best of
and castle hotels head a list that also
these outlets are certainly the most
includes chic boutique-style hotels and
economical way to sample Scotlands
restaurants with rooms, as well as guest
Haggis is the best known of Scotlands
fresh fish and there are many awardtraditional dishes and sometimes
winning establishments achieving fame houses and B&Bs where home-baking
may be another reminder of the
appears as a starter or as part of a main beyond the communities they serve.
traditions of hospitality.
dish. To sample Scotlands tradition of
And there is even a mobile fish and
soup making, try Cullen Skink, a fish
chip van in Tobermory, Mull, notable
soup made from smoked haddock and
for serving delicious fish only a few
potatoes. Oatmeal, a traditional Scottish paces from where it is landed! Freshness
staple, means porridge, oatcakes and
guaranteed.
desserts including cranachan (toasted
Looking for a quality eating
oats, honey, whisky, cream and berries). Scotlands farmers markets are also
experience in Scotland?
thriving. From small beginnings, these
Our new food and drink
Other examples of authentic tastes
gatherings, where local producers sell
scheme Taste Our Best
include Scottish cheeses, such as
direct to consumers, have gained
can help.
Lanark Blue and Ross-shire Caboc;
momentum right across the country.
various smoked fish of which the
Many Scottish towns have monthly
We assess the presentation, quality and
Arbroath Smokie is the most famous;
markets on Saturdays, while
service of food in every kind of eating
clootie dumpling (made with dried
Edinburghs market operates weekly.
establishment in Scotland giving you a

reliable and authoritative guide to

eating out in Scotland. Look out for
our Taste Our Best logo.

13

The 9th hole of the PGA centenary golf course at Gleneagles, Perthshire.

Scotland The Home of Golf

Scotland is The Home of Golf and boasts a fascinating golfing history
which dates back over 600 years. With high profile events including
The Ryder Cup, attractive courses available for all abilities, and a range
of discount passes, 2014 is an ideal year to visit, play and watch golf.

1 The 8th hole at the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, Aberdeen.

With over 550 courses including

championship links courses like St Andrews,
Turnberry, and Muirfield, as well as local
9-hole greens, classic parklands and
challenging heathland, Scotland offers
diverse play for all standards of golfer.
Enjoy stunning views at coastal links such as
Machrihanish and watch out for natural
obstacles including the grazing sheep that
act as green keepers! The Carrick, on the
banks of Loch Lomond, has excellent
waterside views whilst on the Banchory
course, watch out for the River Dee which
comes into play as a water hazard.

Scotlands long daylight hours in summer

mean that late tee-times are possible.
Courses are well maintained, often playable
for most of the year, with average fees as
little as 40.
The Ryder Cup is returning in 2014 to
Gleneagles, the venue of the first matches
ever played between professional British
and US golfers in 1921, which acted as the
precursor to the first Ryder Cup in 1927.
Other great events on the 2014 golfing
calendar include the Scottish Hydro
Challenge at Spey Valley in June, the

In September 2014, the golfing worlds

attention will centre on Scotland, The Home
of Golf, as we host The 2014 Ryder Cup at
Gleneagles in Perthshire. So theres no better
time to start planning that golf break to Scotland; and
with over 550 courses, theres always going to be a tee
time available to fit into your plans. Visit our dedicated
Ryder Cup pages: www.rydercup2014.com

Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish

Open at Royal Aberdeen in July, and both
the Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies
Scottish Open at Archerfield and the
Scottish Hydro Senior Open at St Andrews
in August. In October, the competition
season closes with the annual Dunhill Links
Championship at Carnoustie, St Andrews
and Kingsbarns.
In 2015 The Open Championship is in St
Andrews and in 2016, at Royal Troon,
giving you the chance to watch this
prestigious event on Scotlands top courses,
as the best golfers in the world fight for the
Claret Jug.

For more information

on over 550 courses across
Scotland, special golf passes
and great deals, check out

www.visitscotland.com/golf

15

Dunvegan Castle, home to the Clan Chief MacLeod, Isle of Skye, Highlands of Scotland.

Come walk in the footsteps of your ancestors

To walk in your ancestors footsteps is no clich but an experience
easily realised, thanks to Scotlands genealogical resources and
ancestral events. During Homecoming Scotland 2014 you can
experience first-hand where your ancestors lived and worked. What
will you discover?

1 The statue of Robert the Bruce at the Bannockburn

Heritage Centre near Stirling.

1 A ceilidh in the St Brides Centre, Edinburgh.

1 The Lonach Highland Gathering and

Games, Strathdon, Aberdeenshire.

Track down your clan tartan, touch the

walls of your family castle, or see if your
ancestors were listed in the Poor Law
records a reminder that not all Scots
were living the high life! Take that first
step to explore your past and your
Scottish homecoming will be a personal,
fascinating journey.
Start at one of the archives which are
located across the country, such as the
ScotlandsPeople Centre in Edinburgh.
There are also excellent archives at local

registrars offices and libraries throughout

Scotland, as well as genealogical
specialists.
This year is the perfect time to come
home to the land of your forefathers as
Homecoming Scotland 2014 offers a
year-long programme of events to help
you discover the tales of your ancestors
and meet local Scots and clansmen from
around the world. The amazing
programme will feature hundreds of
events, festivals and Highland games.

At Bannockburn from 28 30 June,

people will gather from around the
world to commemorate the 700th
anniversary of the famous battle. Dont
miss three days of battle re-enactments,
medieval villages, music, theatre and
local produce. On 27 June, Scotland
welcomes pipers, drummers, dancers
and clan members from across the world
to take part in Pipefest Stirling which
includes a parade through the city of
Stirling.

Visit www.visitscotland.com/ancestry to plan your own

personal ancestral journey. Find out about your clan,
tartan and ancestral home, download clan touring
itineraries, check out our Ancestral Welcome members
and sign up for our e-newsletter. Dont just learn about
your Scottish heritage live it!
1 Looking up at the dome within the ScotlandsPeople

Centre, Edinburgh. Over 400,000 family records

are stored in this beautiful building.

17

A group of walkers near Glen Clova, Angus.

A sense of space
Scotlands beautiful countryside offers wide and varied landscapes to
explore, whether by foot, bike, or boat. In Scotland, everyone is entitled
to their right to roam, meaning that you are free to explore the land, as
long as you consider other countryside users by following the Scottish
Outdoor Access Code.

1 Sea kayaking at the Bow Fiddle Rock,

Portknockie, Moray.

1 A puffin perched on a cliff edge.

1 The Queens View, a famous vantage point

at Loch Tummel, Perthshire.

The country has an excellent range of

signposted paths and nature trails through
a variety of landscapes. You can use
Scotlands Countryside Ranger Service,
nature reserve wardens, walking holiday
operators and walking festivals to join
organised walking and wildlife activities for
a whole range of levels. If you are a good
walker, you could even take on one of the
282 Scottish mountains classified as
Munros, which are all over 914m in height.
Scotland also has a variety of official long
distance footpaths which can be sampled

in short sections over one day. Most

popular is the West Highland Way between
the outskirts of Glasgow and Fort William.
This year will see the launch of the John
Muir Way, a newly extended 130-mile trail
running from Dunbar on the east coast to
Helensburgh in the west. You can travel
across the country by bike using the
National Cycle Routes, and will find plenty
of paths and dedicated mountain biking
areas. Tentsmuir Forest on Fifes east coast
is an ideal place for a gentle afternoon ride,
with picnic spots and viewpoints along the
way. The Nevis Range by Fort William has a

To find out more about

walking, cycling and
watersports in Scotland,
visit
www.visitscotland.com

great reputation for mountain biking, and

hosts the annual UCI Mountain Bike World
Cup.
An important part of enjoying the outdoors
is encountering Scotlands wildlife. On even
short walks at places like Glen Muick on
Royal Deeside, you can expect to see red
deer, widespread in the Highlands. Many
rare animal species have been
re-introduced to their natural habitats, such
as the sea eagles which can be spotted
from the island of Mull. Another
re-introduction success is to be found on
the Red Kite Trail round Loch Ken where
these birds are thriving.
To admire Scotlands beautiful coastline
and spot puffins, seals and seabirds you
should take a boat trip. From Oban you
can enjoy an excursion to the famous
Corryvreckan Whirlpool at the north end of
Jura. Look out for whales and dolphins on
the way. Try sea kayaking as a fun,
environmentally friendly way of getting
close to wildlife.

1 Red deer stag at the Highland Wildlife Park,

Kincraig, Highlands of Scotland.

19

Loch Shiel with the Jacobite steam train on the Glenfinnan Viaduct, near Fort William,
Highlands of Scotland.

Scotland on screen
Scotlands spectacular landscapes, quality of light, its people and its stories
have long been immortalised on the silver screen. For many, its been the next
best thing to being here but the only way to really appreciate the magic and
beauty is to see it for yourself.
The dramatic hills of Glen Nevis and Glen
Coe were the setting for Braveheart, the
portrayal of one of the countrys most
iconic figures, featuring Mel Gibson as
William Wallace and detailing the struggle
against English occupation in the 13th
century. Highlander, starring Christopher
Lambert and Sean Connery, featured these
same landscapes alongside romantic Eilean
Donan Castle, also recognisable for its
appearance in the James Bond movie The
World Is Not Enough. More recently Glen
Coe provided the backdrop to dramatic
scenes for Skyfall.

In The Eagle, Channing Tatum and Jamie

Bell uncover the truth behind the
disappearance of the Ninth Legion in 120
AD on the ascending ridges of Bidean
nam Bian in Lochaber, one of the highest
and most scenic mountains in the country,
and in the magnificent area of Applecross
in Wester Ross.

Edinburgh to life, and the adaptation of

David Nicholls best-selling novel One Day.
Starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess
and detailing their lives as friends and
lovers over 20 years, the film features
iconic locations such as Calton Hill and the
Georgian architecture of the citys New
Town.

Hitchcocks The 39 Steps showcases

dramatic action on the Forth Rail Bridge
outside of Edinburgh, whilst Wigtownshire
in the south west is the backdrop for the
cult film The Wicker Man.

The breathtaking train chase scene from

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
features the Hogwarts Express and a flying
Ford Anglia car crossing the historic
Glenfinnan Viaduct in the west Highlands.
Experience the same magical journey with
a trip on The Jacobite steam train between
Fort William and Mallaig. Scenes for many
of the Harry Potter films were shot in
Scotland, and in Glen Coe you can enjoy
Hagrids views of the Torren Lochan, and
Loch Eilt where he skipped stones across
the water.

Scotlands sparkling coastline has also been

featured in well-loved films such as
Chariots of Fire, filmed on the West Sands
beach at St Andrews, and Local Hero, on
Camusdarach beach in Morar. More
recently, Oscar-winning biopic The Queen
was filmed at the Balmoral Estate in Royal
Deeside while The Da Vinci Code
showcased Rosslyn Chapel, just outside of
Edinburgh.

Scotlands myths and legends have

inspired film makers for generations, and
in 2012 Scotland was the land that
inspired DisneyPixars Brave. The story
follows the flame-haired heroine Merida
battling to change her fate and though
Brave is set in a fictional medieval
Scotland, Pixars animators were deeply
influenced by the real countrys sheer
rugged variety. Highland games, standing
stones and clan culture are just a few of
the firmly Scottish sights in this stunning
lighthearted adventure.

Scotlands beautiful but compact capital

city has proved the perfect location for a
number of projects, including animated
feature The Illusionist, which brings 1950s

Create your own movie magic

by checking out our film
itineraries on
www.visitscotland.com

Music, dance, culture...and much more

Scotland is known for its world-class programme of events and in 2014 its greater than ever
before. Events include The Ryder Cup and the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, as
well as Homecoming Scotland 2014 which is a year-long programme of events and activities
showcasing all thats great about Scotland. There will be arts, nature and ancestral heritage
events as well as Highland games, historic events like Bannockburn Live and food and drink
celebrations including Whisky Month.
For a full listing, check out www.visitscotland.com/events

JANUARY

MARCH

MAY

JUNE

1 January
THE BA, Orkney
Historical street football game with
around 400 players.
www.bagame.com

1-14 March
INVERNESS MUSIC FESTIVAL
Instrumental, speech, dance and
vocal competitions.
www.invernessmusicfestival.org

1-4 May
SHETLAND FOLK FESTIVAL
Presenting the best folk music from
around the globe.
www.shetlandfolkfestival.com

1-31 January
TURNER IN JANUARY, Scottish
National Gallery, Edinburgh
Annual exhibition of Turner
watercolours.
www.nationalgalleries.org

5-9 March
StANZA, St Andrews
Scotlands International Poetry
Festival a celebration of poetry.
www.stanzapoetry.org

1-5 May
SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY
FESTIVAL
Spirited, Inspiring, Scottish, 300
events over 5 days. Discover the
passion behind the worlds finest
whiskies.
www.spiritofspeyside.com

1 June-30 August
RETURN TO THE RIDINGS, Scottish
Borders
The festivals surrounding these ride
outs are steeped in tradition and
celebrate borders history.
www.returntotheridings.co.uk

16 January-2 February
CELTIC CONNECTIONS, Glasgow
A celebration of traditional music.
www.celticconnections.com
25-27 January
BIG BURNS SUPPER, Dumfries
The Worlds Biggest Burns Night
Celebration featuring a carnival
parade with a cast of over 2,000
who will reignite the spirit of
Homecoming in the Southern
Capital on Burns Night.
www.bigburnssupper.com
28 January
UP HELLY AA, Lerwick, Shetland
Viking festival culminating in a
torch-lit procession and the burning
of a galley.
www.uphellyaa.org

FEBRUARY
1 February-30 November
SCOTTISH DIASPORA TAPESTRY,
across Scotland
Created by volunteers in 25
countries around the world,
depicting the experiences of
migrant Scots over the centuries.
www.scottishdiasporatapestry.org
February - March
SNOWDROP FESTIVAL, across
Scotland
Be charmed by the abundance of
snowdrops across different venues
at this blooming marvellous winter
festival.
www.visitscotland.com/snowdrop
6-16 February
ELECTRIC GLEN, Rouken Glen Park,
East Renfrewshire
The event showcases the diverse
natural beauty of the park while
characters from the past share their
unique stories bringing the heritage
and history of the park to life.
www.electricglen.co.uk
20 February-2 March
GLASGOW FILM FESTIVAL
Showcase of movies from around
the world.
www.glasgowfilm.org/festival

14 March - 5 April
GLASGOW INTERNATIONAL
COMEDY FESTIVAL
The twelfth Glasgow International
Comedy Festival will present an
exciting programme of the very
best stand-up, comedy theatre, film,
workshops and kids shows.
www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com.uk

APRIL
5-20 April
EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL
SCIENCE FESTIVAL
Stunning science for all ages.
www.sciencefestival.co.uk
6-12 April
ST ANDREWS GOLF WEEK
A week of golf in St Andrews The
Home of Golf.
www.standrewsgolfweek.com
11-12 April
CORAL SCOTTISH GRAND
NATIONAL FESTIVAL, Ayr Race
Course
The highlight of the jumps season
in Scotland.
www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk
11-12 April
MELROSE SEVENS
Rugby 7s tournament.
www.melrose7s.com
11-13 April
ORKNEY CEILIDH WEEKEND
A weekend of Traditional Dance
Workshops and Ceilidhs.

www.orkneycommunities.co.uk/otda

17-26 April
JOHN MUIR FESTIVAL, across
Scotland
A celebration of the life and legacy
of John Muir, taking place along
the length of the John Muir Way,
a new national pathway that
stretches from Dunbar in the East to
Helensburgh in the West.
www.snh.gov.uk
30 April
BELTANE FIRE FESTIVAL, Edinburgh
A celebration of the arrival of
summer.
www.beltane.org

1-31 May
WHISKY MONTH, across Scotland.
A month-long celebration of
Scotlands national drink with
whisky festivals and events across
the country form the Highlands to
the Isles, the lowlands to Speyside.
www.homecomingscotland.com
2-4 May
40th GIRVAN FOLK FESTIVAL
Concerts, ceilidhs, competitions and
sessions throughout the weekend.
www.girvanfolkfestival.co.uk
22-25 May
ORKNEY FOLK FESTIVAL
www.orkneyfolkfestival.com
22 May-1 June
PERTH FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
Annual arts festival.
www.perthfestival.co.uk
23-31 May
ISLAY FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND
MALT
Feis Ile week is unique taste of Islays
heritage, culture, hospitality as well
as our world famous whisky.
www.theislayfestival.co.uk
24 May-8 June
TWEEDLOVE BIKE FESTIVAL 2014,
Tweed Valley, Scottish Borders
The UKs fastest growing cycling
festival, held every year in the
beautiful Tweed Valley.
www.tweedlove.com
30 May-1 June
GARDENING SCOTLAND,
Edinburgh
Scotlands national celebration of
gardening and outdoor living.
www.gardeningscotland.com

5-8 June
ANGUS GLENS WALKING FESTIVAL
This award-winning festival has
walks to suit all tastes and abilities.

www.angusglenswalkingfestival.com

7 June
TASTE OF GRAMPIAN, Inverurie
Sample the wide range of quality
produce from the north east of
Scotland.
www.tasteofgrampian.co.uk
7-8 June
UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD CUP,
Fort William
A stunning celebration of 2 wheeled
action in the Highlands.
www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk
8 June
ARDROSSAN HIGHLAND GAMES,
Memorial Playing Fields, Ardrossan

www.ardrossanhighlandgames.org.uk

19-22 June
ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW,
Edinburgh
The highlight of the Scottish
country calendar.
www.royalhighlandshow.org
28-30 June
BANNOCKBURN LIVE,
Bannockburn, Stirling
Over three days, thousands of
people will come to the site of
the Battle of Bannockburn and
experience an event like no other - a
unique take on this turning point in
Scotlands history.
www.battleofbannockburn.com
27-29 June
SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT
FESTIVAL, Portsoy, Aberdeenshire
Festival with a special emphasis
on boat building, restoration and
sailing and on associated traditional
crafts, music and art.
www.stbfportsoy.com

JULY
4-6 July
GWCT SCOTTISH GAME FAIR,
Scone Palace, Perthshire
Demonstrating the importance
of game and other wildlife to the
Scottish countryside.
www.scottishfair.com

21

GETTING HERE IS EASY

Your travel
guide
Getting to Scotland is simple and
straightforward and once you get
here, some of the worlds most
breathtaking landscapes are
within easy reach.

International Airport
Airport
Air route
0
0

Choose from a selection of

nonstop flights from the US or
Canada, or a wide range of
connections through European
hub airports including London,
Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt and
Dublin.
London is around an hours flight
to Edinburgh or Glasgow, and
Scotlands other main airports
enjoy a regular service from
London and other UK cities.
Onward travel from Scotlands
airports to the nearby
city centers is quick and well
co-ordinated.
Travelling around the country is
effortless too, thanks to an
extensive road network, excellent
rail links and a comprehensive
bus system. Theres also an
efficient ferry service, taking
passengers to and from
Scotlands islands.

100
100

Inverness
from Toronto
from Chicago, Newa

Air Transat / Canadian Affair:

Calgary, Vancouver and Toronto to
Glasgow
Air Transat
www.airtransat.ca
Toll Free: 001-866-847-1112
Europe Airpost
Halifax to Glasgow
Tel: 1 866 670 6059
www.europeairpost.com/en
Canadian Affair
Toll Free: 1-877-8 FLY2UK
www.canadianaffair.ca
Europe Airpost:
Halifax Glasgow
Toll Free: 001 866 670 6059
www.europeairpost.com

rk & Philad
e

from Calgary, Halifa

x,
& Vancouver (via Ca Toronto &
lgary)

SCOTLAND

Aberdeen

lphia

from Newark, Orlando & Philadelphia

Edinburgh
Glasgow
Prestwick

NORTHERN
IRELAND

ENGLAND
Manchester

IRELAND

WALES
London
Heathrow

N14SMIUS

Collins Bartholomew Ltd 2013

NON-STOP FROM THE US

AND CANADA
Air Canada Rouge
Toronto to Edinburgh
Tel: 1-800-247-2262
www.aircanada.com/rouge

200 miles
300 km

200

INDIRECT FLIGHTS FROM THE US

AND CANADA
United Airlines
Newark to Glasgow and Newark
to Edinburgh, year round.
Chicago to Edinburgh,
commencing May 2014,
summer service
Tel: 1-800-864-8331
www.united.com
US Airways
Philadelphia to Glasgow, May to
October.
Tel: 1-800-428-4322
www.usairways.com
Virgin Atlantic (via London) ,
year round.
New York to Edinburgh
and Aberdeen
Tel: 1-800-862-8621
www.virgin-atlantic.com

British Airways
US cities to London Heathrow with
daily connections to Scotland
Tel: 1-800-247-9297
www.britishairways.com

Virgin Atlantic
US cities to London Heathrow,
London Gatwick and Manchester.
Tel: 1-800-862-8621
www.virgin-atlantic.com

Icelandair
Flights from Boston, DC, Denver,
Minneapolis, New York, Orlando,
and Seattle to Glasgow via
Reykjavik.
Tel: 1-800-223-5500
www.icelandair.us

Aer Lingus
US cities to Dublin Ireland with
daily connections to Glasgow and
Edinburgh.
Tel: 1-516-622-4226
www.aerlingus.com

United Airlines
US cities to London Heathrow,
with daily connections to Glasgow,
Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness.
Tel: 1-800-864-8331
www.united.com

23

GETTING HERE IS EASY

Your travel
guide
Getting to Scotland is simple and
straightforward and once you get
here, some of the worlds most
breathtaking landscapes are
within easy reach.

International Airport
Airport
Air route
0
0

Choose from a selection of

nonstop flights from the US or
Canada, or a wide range of
connections through European
hub airports including London,
Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt and
Dublin.
London is around an hours flight
to Edinburgh or Glasgow, and
Scotlands other main airports
enjoy a regular service from
London and other UK cities.
Onward travel from Scotlands
airports to the nearby
city centers is quick and well
co-ordinated.
Travelling around the country is
effortless too, thanks to an
extensive road network, excellent
rail links and a comprehensive
bus system. Theres also an
efficient ferry service, taking
passengers to and from
Scotlands islands.

100
100

Inverness
from Toronto
from Chicago, Newa

Europe Airpost
Halifax to Glasgow
Tel: 1 866 670 6059
www.europeairpost.com/en
United Airlines
Newark to Glasgow and Newark
to Edinburgh, year round.
Chicago to Edinburgh,
commencing May 2014,
summer service
Tel: 1-800-864-8331
www.united.com

rk & Philad
e

from Calgary, Halifa

x,
& Vancouver (via Ca Toronto &
lgary)

SCOTLAND

Aberdeen

lphia

from Newark, Orlando & Philadelphia

Edinburgh
Glasgow
Prestwick

NORTHERN
IRELAND

ENGLAND
Manchester

IRELAND

WALES
London
Heathrow

N14SMIUS

Collins Bartholomew Ltd 2013

NON-STOP FROM THE US

Air Canada Rouge
Toronto to Edinburgh
Tel: 1-800-247-2262
www.aircanada.com/rouge

200 miles
300 km

200

INDIRECT FLIGHTS FROM THE US

US Airways
Philadelphia to Glasgow, May to
October.
Tel: 1-800-428-4322
www.usairways.com

British Airways
US cities to London Heathrow with
daily connections to Scotland
Tel: 1-800-247-9297
www.britishairways.com

Virgin Atlantic
US cities to London Heathrow,
London Gatwick and Manchester.
Tel: 1-800-862-8621
www.virgin-atlantic.com

Virgin Atlantic (via London) ,

year round.
New York to Edinburgh
and Aberdeen
Tel: 1-800-862-8621
www.virgin-atlantic.com

Icelandair
Flights from Boston, DC, Denver,
Minneapolis, New York, Orlando,
and Seattle to Glasgow via
Reykjavik.
Tel: 1-800-223-5500
www.icelandair.us

Aer Lingus
US cities to Dublin Ireland with
daily connections to Glasgow and
Edinburgh.
Tel: 1-516-622-4226
www.aerlingus.com

United Airlines
US cities to London Heathrow,
with daily connections to Glasgow,
Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness.
Tel: 1-800-864-8331
www.united.com

23

Places to stay
Where you stay is often as important as what you see. You
name it, weve got it. Everything from five star hotels and
exclusive lodges to bed and breakfasts, backpacker hostels
and camping grounds by mountain streams. What about a
castle, a lighthouse, a croft house, a haunted house, or even
a wooden wigwam? No matter what your budget well have
something thats right for you.
Hotels
Hotels
Scotland offers a very broad choice
of hotels from smart, modern,
boutique hotels in city centres to
traditional, country house hotels.
Outside of the peak season (from
June to September), hotels may
offer special prices so its worth
asking about this when you book.

Serviced Apartments
Serviced Apartments are essentially
self-catering apartments where
other services (such as cleaning) are
available. Meals and drinks may
also be offered, normally provided
to each apartment or in a
restaurant or bar on site.

Budget Hotels and Lodges

Guest Houses and
Bed & Breakfasts
Guest houses and bed & breakfasts
are similar in style and can be
found in cities, towns and villages
and in the countryside where
farmhouses are also available. They
usually have a few rooms and they
are normally run by the owners.

Inns and
Restaurants with Rooms
We have a range of inns and
restaurants with rooms in Scotland.
inns offer a more traditonal stay with
the bar and informal dining very
much at the heart of the business,
whilst a restaurant with rooms
will focus primarily on the dining
experience.

Castles and Historic Houses

It is possible to stay in a castle or
historic house in Scotland. Choose
from a range of high quality
serviced or self-catering properties.

Self-Catering
From traditional cottages
to modern chalets and city
apartments. The rental is arranged
in advance and is normally on a
weekly basis starting and ending on
a Saturday.

Budget Hotels and Lodges are

primarily purpose-built overnight
accommodation, often situated
close to a major road or in a city
centre. Prices are usually charged
per room rather than per person.

Campus Accommodation
Campus accommodation
is provided by colleges and
universities for their students and is
made available outside term time
(mainly July and August), with
meals for individuals, families or
groups.

Hostels

Youll be surprised where our

search for quality takes us
VisitScotland, under the Scottish Tourist
Board brand, runs the star grading schemes.
N
THE SIG Y
We visit the length and breadth of Scotland
LIT
OF QUA
to visit thousands of different properties
every year and grade them on the things we
know matter to you. Things like the standard of hospitality,
service, and customer care to help you make a more informed
choice. Look out for establishmenst carrying the VisitScotand
quality award. VisitScotland Quality Assurance. Quality you
can trust.

HH

HHH

ACCEPTABLE

GOOD

VERY GOOD

Camping and Caravanning

Camping, caravanning and
campervan enthusiasts will
appreciate Scotlands wide range
of well-equipped caravan and
camping parks. You can hire a
holiday home or arrive with your
own touring caravan, campervan
or tent.

For information on VisitScotland Quality Assured properties

throughout Scotland visit www.visitscotland.com or for
information and advice to help you plan and book your
next holiday e-mail info@visitscotland.com

Talk to our friendly experts!

VisitScotland operates a national network of
Information Centres staffed by experts who can
provide you with everything you need to know
about Scotland. They can help you with bookings
for accommodation, attractions, activities, events and
transport as well as supplying maps, guidebooks and advice
on itinerary planning. They can even give you tips on
anything from the best local walking or cycle routes to the
best bar, caf or restaurant. Keep an eye out for this sign or
visit www.visitscotland.com/wheretofindus for a full list
of centres.

EXCEPTIONAL

Establishments awarded gold stars have consistently achieved

the highest levels of excellence within their star grading.
Our Welcome Schemes
Our Welcome Schemes complement the star schemes. They
tell you about establishments who pay particular attention
to the specific needs of these visitors. As well as our Walkers
Welcome and Cyclists Welcome schemes, there are similar
schemes for anglers, bikers, classic cars, golfers, children, field
sports, groups and ancestral tourism.

D C
Walkers
Welcome

Scotland has an extensive network

of hostels either belonging to the
Scottish Youth Hostels Association
(SYHA) or to independent or
privately owned companies.

HHHH HHHHH
EXCELLENT

5 stars Exceptional
4 stars Excellent
3 stars Very Good
2 stars Good
1 star Fair and acceptable

Cyclists
Welcome

Anglers
Welcome

Bikers
Welcome

Classic Cars
Welcome

Golfers
Welcome

Children
Welcome

Field Sports
Welcome

Groups
Welcome

Ancestral Tourism
Welcome

Access all areas

Our access scheme enables visitors with physical disabilities
to assess if businesses are suitable for their requirements.
$
Unassisted wheelchair access
%
Assisted wheelchair access
&
Access for visitors with mobility difficulties
Because we care
The Green Tourism Business Scheme operated by GBUK
assesses the level of sustainable practice businesses are
achieving and the awards are
Bronze
Silver
Gold
For more information visit www.green-tourism.com
Taste Our Best - food and drink award
We assess the presentation, quality and service
of food in every kind of eating establishment
throughout Scotland. Our new food and drink
scheme Taste Our Best gives a reliable and authoritative
guide to eating out in Scotland.
You will be assured of a quality experience in businesses that
have this award. Their menus feature Scottish produce; giving
you increased choice.
You will also see EatScotland awards, our previous scheme which is being
phased out and replaced by Taste Our Best. You can expect a quality
dining experience in establishments with EatScotland awards.

THE CARLTON HOTEL

Long stay or short, the Carlton Hotel is
the perfect venue for anyone looking
for fantastic food or relaxing cocktails.
Modern Accommodation Conference Suite
Banqueting Suite for up to 220 guests Full Wedding Packages
Landscaped Gardens Daily Specials Available

The Carlton Carvery Restaurant - Ayrshires nest

Open Sunday through to Thursday 12pm to 8.30pm
T: 01292 476811

Logans Bar Restaurant - An all day dining experience

Open daily 9am- 9.30pm
For breakfast through to dinner

E: reception@carlton-prestwick.com

www.carlton-prestwick.com

SHAWLANDS PARK HOTEL

LOCHSIDE HOUSE HOTEL AND SPA

VOTED SCOTLANDS BEST HOTEL SPA 2012

A truly remarkable location to which we invite you to share...

A truly remarkable location to which we invite you to share...

Situated in the heart of burns country, just one hour from Glasgow, the hotel sits on the
banks of the loch of lowes with the Afton hills providing the perfect backdrop

Ideally situated for visitors wishing to tour Ayrshire and the outlying districts 9 Hole Golf Course located locally

Ideally situated for visitors wishing to tour Ayrshire and the outlying districts 9 Hole Golf Course located locally

35 Well appointed bedrooms including 15 Garden Rooms with private terrace The Afton Restaurant and Lounge

35 Well appointed bedrooms including 15 Garden Rooms with private terrace The Afton Restaurant and Lounge

Stunning view of the Ayrshire countryside Luxury Spa oering extensive packages and treatments

Stunning view of the Ayrshire countryside Luxury Spa oering extensive packages and treatments

T: 01290 333000
E: reception@lochside-hotel.com
www.lochside-hotel.com
Near New Cumnock | Ayrshire | KA18 4PN

T: 01698 791111

Ayr

Road

E: reception@shawlandsparkhotel.co.uk

Larkhall

ML9

www.shawlandsparkhotel.co.uk

2TZ

Pencaitland, Tranent,
East Lothian EH34 5ET
T: 01875 342004

Pitlochry, Perthshire
PH16 5LY
T: 01796 482003

Dalwhinnie,
Crathie, Ballater,
Inverness-shire PH19 1AB Aberdeenshire AB35 5TB
T: 01540 672219
T: 01339 742700

Ballindalloch, Banffshire
AB37 9AB
T: 01479 874700

Knockando, Moray
AB38 7RY
T: 01479 874635

Muir of Ord, Ross-shire

IV6 7UJ
T: 01463 872004

Brora, Sutherland
KW9 6LR
T: 01408 623000

Carbost, Isle of Skye

IV47 8SR
T: 01478 614308

Stafford Street, Oban

PA34 5NH
T: 01631 572004

Port Askaig, Isle of Islay

PA46 7RL
T: 01496 302769

Port Ellen, Isle of Islay

PA42 7DZ
T: 01496 302749

9
4

3
2
10
11

1
12

Join our year-long

celebrations.

Scotland welcomes the world in 2014 and youre invited to the party! Packed with brilliant
moments, the Year of Homecoming will serve up a fantastic mix of events and festivals
that celebrates the very best of Scotland: our breathtaking scenery, our mouthwatering
food and drink, as well as our rich culture, creativity and ancestral heritage. Throughout
the year and across the country, youll be very welcome so join us and be part of
Homecoming Scotland 2014!

www.homecomingscotland.com
HC Print ad LF US Spec 210x135.indd 1

17/09/2013 13:41

Glasgow 2014 XX Commonwealth Games

23.07-3.08.2014

17 SPORTS, 11 DAYS
OF COMPETITION,
1 PLACE TO BE
Theres never been a better time to visit Glasgow.
For tickets and packages visit
glasgow2014.com

ED
EVERYONES INVIT