Journey Through Scotland: 15 Stunning Locations

You don’t have to be a Braveheart aficionado to know Scotland is a nation full of fighters who stand up for what they believe in, feel passionately, and express their thoughts and emotions in beautiful, poetic form. 

If you’re lucky enough to travel north of England and greet the residents of this colorful country, you’ll never want to leave. Filled with rugged hills, peaceful lochs, eclectic cities, and a whisky distillery or two, you’ll leave here a changed person – all for the better. 

Royal Botanic Garden | Edinburgh

It’s always a welcome escape when expansive gardens exist in the midst of bustling cities. And the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh is no exception. 

It was founded in 1670 and is considered to be one of the finest gardens in the world. If you need a brief reprieve from the sights and sounds of the city, you’ll have 72 perfectly manicured acres to explore. Best of all? Admission is free!

The Writers’ Museum | Edinburgh

Even if you’re a moderately avid reader, you’ll enjoy the Writers’ Museum. It’s hard to argue with the tapestry that the famous writers of Scotland were able to weave with a pen. The museum focuses on three of the most impactful writers in Scottish history: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. 

Inside, you’ll find portraits, rare books, and personal objects like Burns’ writing desk and the printing press on which Scott’s Waverley Novels were first produced. With first-edition books on display, manuscripts, and an array of opportunities to study their written words, the Writers’ Museum is a nice place to pause and reflect on this form of artistry. 

The National Museum of Scotland | Edinburgh

Edinburgh seems to have one of the finest gardens in the world – and one of the finest museums! Here, you’ll explore a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, including the centuries-old chess pieces that inspired J.K. Rowling’s Wizard Chess.

With multiple year-round exhibitions, as well as temporary exhibitions, it’s worth taking a look at the website before you go to see what you might like to enjoy. Surprisingly, admission is free and, anytime you want to visit, you won’t be disappointed – no matter what’s on display. 

Edinburgh Castle | Edinburgh

You know this is a significant site when you consider Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified structures in Europe. It’s steeped in history, having served a multitude of purposes from the royal residence, to a military garrison, to a prison. As you climb the steep Castle Hill, you’ll walk in the footsteps of former soldiers, kings, queens, and pirates. 

Inside, you’ll be amazed by The Great Hall, as well as St. Margaret’s Chapel. Outside, as you stand by the canons, you’ll have the most magnificent view over the city. Indeed, Edinburgh Castle isn’t just some hyped-up tourist attraction. It’s one of the best ways to touch the spirit of this mighty nation.