7 Most Memorable Cities in Scotland

Navigation:

• Skye
• Edinburgh
• Fort William and Glencoe
• The Outer Hebrides 
• The Inner Hebrides
• Glasgow 
• Cairngorms National Park

Skye

At the top of the seven most memorable cities in Scotland is the Isle of Sky, also simply known as Skye. Known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages, as well as medieval castles, the island of Skye is indeed a good place for visitors to start their journey in Scotland. 

On the shores of Loch Scavaig, a beautiful village can be found with a range of rocky mountains, known as the Cuillin mountain range. With the mountain range dubbed as the finest in Britain, visitors can enjoy a scenic view from the meticulously crafted footpaths of Cuilllin, which leads to dramatic peaks and cirques. If the arduous climb on the mountain range was not enough, visitors can also enjoy a hike on The Quiraing between Staffin and Uig--photographers would enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Scotland as they pass through this hill. In addition to this, visitors are also welcome to take a dip in the clear, seemingly vibrant blue and green, waters of the Glen Brittle Fairy Pools at the foot of the Black Cuillins. 

Edinburgh

The well-known capital of Scotland is another one of the top seven memorable cities to visit in Scotland. With this ancient city having a medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town with gardens and neoclassical buildings, visiting this hilly capital is a must. It has a collection of beautiful villages that are picture-worthy, as well as an incredible selection of world-class attractions, hotels, shops, eating, drinking, and nightlife--perfect for tourists coming from different parts of the world. Visitors who are interested in learning about history can visit the National Museum of Scotland with no cost and can visit the Edinburgh Castle for no cost. To those who are into spooky things, going on a tour in the Edinburgh Darkside Walk. It’s a place where you can learn about murders, mysteries, and legends, as well as Underground Ghost tours, are also available. 

Fort William and Glencoe

Visitors who are planning a tour of the West Highlands of Scotland, Fort William and Glencoe are perfect villages to visit. Fort William is a substantial community that is full of salt water; a wide range of accommodation and activities to do in and around the town with cycleway, railways, and bus routes can be found in this village. Glencoe, a steep-sided high-valley village is famously known for its waterfalls and trails that climb peaks. Glencoe is dubbed as “one of the most dramatic, haunting places in Scotland.” Loved by hikers and climbers, Fort William and Glencoe has “mountains and a history of clan warfare. It is a broad highland meadow in the heart of Glen Coe, scene of the infamous massacre of MacDonalds by Campbell soldiers in 1692. Most visitors are happy to drive through the glen, stopping to marvel at three massive, brooding buttresses on one side and a towering, knife-edge ridge on the other. Many would venture to take a more challenging footpath up to the lost valley to seek out the historic hiding place of stolen cattle. This path is not for the light-hearted as its wilderness has been stained with the plotted murder of clansmen. 

With the extra time, Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig is also worth boarding on. The route is said to be one of the most picturesque rail routes in the world; it includes a crossing of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which was featured in the famous Harry Potter films. 

The Outer Hebrides 

Situated on Europe’s Atlantic edge, the Isles of the Outer Hebrides has 15 inhabited islands with their own unique way of life, and can easily be one of Scotland’s most fascinating destinations. In this isolated environment, visitors can enjoy peace and tranquility as well as the warm hospitality of its communities. Visitors are also able to enjoy a selection of museums and monuments as well as the Gaelic culture where crofting, community events, and ceilidhs bring people together. In addition to all of this, The Outer Hebrides also offer a range of wildlife animals that flourish in their unique environment; a nature-filled environment also comes with many opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, canoeing, kayaking, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. 

On the west coast of Harris, Luskentyre can be found situated within its parish. Luskentyre has been dubbed one of UK’s best beaches according to the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards, and its title is understandable due to its ethereal blur of swirling sands and shimmering blue streaks. Scarista is another beach that often attracts surfers due to its big Atlantic swells. 

Visitors can visit North Uist try Traigh Lingeigh and Traigh Hornais for great sea views, as well as Hosta Beach for surfing.

Lastly on the Outer Hebrides in Barra, Traigh Eais an exhilarating one-mile stretch of sand can be found, the only beach in the world that doubles as an airport are found in Traigh Mhor, and a great spot for sunsets, with fine sand and deep blue seas can be found in Tangasdale Beach. 

The Inner Hebrides

To the south-east of the Outer Hebrides, the Inner Hebrides is found with 79 islands, in which 35 is inhabited, has many of Scotland’s fascinating destinations. Iona, a small island in the Inner Hebrides--surrounded by the remains of 60 Scottish, Irish, and Norwegian kings--, has its Abbey which is a perfect quiet place for peace and reflection. The island of Islay is known for its whiskey and numerous distilleries. Its tranquil beauty, sweeping vistas, and more than 20 beaches are also what makes up this wonderful island. 

The neighboring island of Islay, Jura, is amongst the wildest and most rugged places in Britain. With barely 200 people residing along its only road, Jura has stags on the hills, otters by the shore, and golden eagles in the crags. 

Last but not the least of The Outer Hebrides islands is Mull. Mull offers imposing mountain scenery and is known for its brightly painted waterfront houses and a beach of golden sand and clear waters in the towns of Tobermory and Calgary. 

Glasgow 

Glasgow, a port city on the River Slide in Scotland’s western lowlands and Scotland’s biggest city, is known for its Victorian and nouveau architecture. Glasgow has plenty of world-class museums and galleries, breathtaking architecture, parks, unique attractions, high-street, designer retailers, and a range of bars, restaurants, and pubs. The place is making a comeback with its shipping, industry and commerce activities that reach far and wide around the world. Today it reinvented itself as a cultural hotspot in Europe filled with music, creative arts, design, theatre and much anticipated innovative cuisine.

Cairngorms National Park

Scotland’s national park, the Cairngorms National Park, includes castles, distilleries, family attractions, as well as outdoor fun. The Cairngorms National Park was voted one of the top 20 places to visit in the world by the National Geographic Traveller Magazine. Many would recommend taking a long leisure walk around Loch Muick or cycling the Speyside Way. Visitors may find themselves in awe of the view 1,309 meters on top of Ben Macdui. For skiers, it is good to hear that skiing is possible in winter in the Cairngorms National Park.

Things to do in Wales

Navigation:

• Ride the Welsh Highland Railway, one of the spectacular train rides in the world
• Get your gear on and surf the waters of the Gower Peninsula
• Discover the most spectacular views at the Wales Coast Path
• Be mesmerize with the beauty of Snowdonia
• Let your imagination soar within the many castles of Wales

The history of Wales began thousands of years ago when Neanderthals first step foot in the country. Homo sapiens arrived in Cymru or Wales about 31,000 BC and the recorded modern human dates from the last ice age era about 9000 BC. Experts consider Wales as one of the significant countries for its ancient discovery of civilizations which dates back from the Mesolithic, Neolithic, and Bronze Age. But like of all Britain, the Celtic Britons and the Brittonic language dominated the country of Wales.

In 43 AD the Romans began their aggressive conquest of Britain, they started their invasion in northeast Wales against the Deceangli. But it’s not until the 79 AD when they regained total control of Wales with their victory against the Ordovices. The Romans retreat from Britain in the 5th century gave way to the Anglo-Saxon invasion in Wales. The largest of these groups, the Welsh people stood as the foundation of the Wales countryside.

Today, Wales is increasingly becoming popular as UK’s most favorite and most beautiful outback destination. Despite its size, it packed with a lot of fun outdoor activities that every family would enjoy.

Ride the Welsh Highland Railway, one of the spectacular train rides in the world

Almost every country has its own railway systems, but the country’s very own railway system is something you wouldn’t miss when visiting the country. Known for its charming green valleys and majestic mountains, the Welsh Highland Railway system is home to some of the oldest and most scenic railways in the entire planet. Many travelers who had been on the trains, claims that it’s the most spectacular ride they had. The journey starts from the Porthmadog station and ending in Blaenau Ffestiniog. It will take travelers to the most beautiful route that runs through the narrow gauge and making its way at the very heart of Snowdonia National Park. It’s hop-on-hop-off, ride so travelers can freely disembark at any of the trailheads, and enjoy a short walk to really enjoy the journey.

Get your gear on and surf the waters of the Gower Peninsula

The Gower Peninsula remains as a very popular destination for Beach lovers and everyone who loves the sea. But the waters of the peninsula attracts most surfers even beginner surfers who want to experience the waves in the region. The area has lots of bays that has swell of waves forming at varying degrees. There are a number of surf communities that offers surf lessons for everyone who wants to be on the water. For adrenaline junkies, the peninsula features vertigo-inducing sea cliffs, rock arches, and hidden coves waiting to be discovered. But for travelers who just want to chill and enjoy the scenery, there are plenty of kayaking and coasteering spots all around the Gower Peninsula.

Discover the most spectacular views at the Wales Coast Path

There really no denying that Wales has one of the most spectacular views on the planet. Dubbed as the most beautiful view in all of UK, the Welsh coast offers an abundance of lush green valleys and majestic cliffs. The 870-mile walk links all the seaside tracks together in Wales, starting from Chepstow in the southeastern region to Queensferry in the North Wales Borderlands. The highlights of the tour are seeing the grand Pembrokeshire coast which looks like a giant chiseled it out from the Atlantic Ocean and the Llŷn Peninsula with views that teeming with wildlife and wild vistas. To celebrate the beauty of the Wales Coast, there are many walking festivals happening each year. Organizers have set a variety of walks to suit every traveler need like experiencing the authentic Welsh cuisine and craft ales.

Be mesmerized with the beauty of Snowdonia

Snowdonia clearly represents the entire Wales scenery, beautiful mountain ranges with lush forestry. Located at the county of Gwynedd, Snowdonia boats of 14 majestic peaks standing at over 3,000 feet high and peeking through the clouds. The most famous of the peaks is perhaps the 3,546-foot Snowdon in which travelers can ride a train to see more of its spectacular view. Snowdonia can be seen as far on the West Coast in the county of Porthmadog. Because of its beauty, the place inspires some of the known legends in the world like King Arthur, who locals insist was Welsh.

Let your imagination soar within the many castles of Wales

Another known fact about Wales is that the regions are teeming with historical castles – where history and myth co-exist, paving the way for many fairy tales like stories of the modern world. Wales houses more than 600 castles with dozens of them in well-preserved conditions. Some of the most famous castles include Harlech, Conwy, Criccieth and of course Caernarfon. Caernarfon Castle was the most extravagant and expensive castles ever built by a king of England.

Facts about United Kingdom

Navigation:

• Land area
• The deep history of UK
• Conflicts among constituent
• UK greatest contribution to humanity

The United Kingdom is an island nation located in northwestern Europe. It consists of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Its deep history has a great impact across the world, from raging was of the nomadic people to the most popular pop culture icon of the century. England is the birthplace of the greatest literary genius, Shakespeare and the most popular band of all times, - The Beatles. Its capital serves as the main center for finance, fashion, and culture in the world. The UK is home to the famous Neolithic Stonehenge, ancient Bath’s Roman spa, and oldest universities in the world. 

Land area

The United Kingdom has four geographic areas- England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. It consists of the most populous area of the British Isles. Its group of island composes of Ireland, Great Britain, and other many smaller islands. Wales, Scotland, England constitute the larger area of Great Britain. The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland play as the second largest island – Ireland.

The southern part of Great Britain, England composes of Isles of Scilly to the southwest coast and Isle of Wight in the southern coast. In northern Great Britain, Scotland includes Orkney, Shetland, and the Hebrides. On the other hand, Wales on the western part of England includes Anglesey to the northwest. 

The deep history of UK

The forming of the UK can be traced from the Anglo-Saxon king named Athelstan. During the 10th century, there were allegiances of other Celtic kingdoms. The efforts to unify the neighboring kingdoms made him king as “the first to rule what previously many kings shared between them.” Over the course of centuries, kingdoms lying farther away from where ruled under the English domain.

The congeries of Celtic kingdoms lying southwest in Great Britain became one nation under the Acts of Union of 1536 and 154 which was later called Wales. Scotland and Wales were then formally incorporated in 1707 to join the United Kingdom of Great Britain. 

During the 1600s, England took hold of Ireland and was formally united with the UK through the Act of Union of 1800. But in 1922, Ireland gained its independence in 1922. But nine other counties remained part of the UK which referred to as Northern Ireland. The “British” word became a common term to refer people to all the United Kingdom. 

Conflicts among constituent

Although efforts to have these countries unified and at peace, there are open rebellions and at some point leads to warfare. Various controversies marked the peaceful efforts of England. However, during the late 20th century, these tensions became fewer as assemblies and constitutional peace talks were introduced in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Nevertheless, the tension still continued until the 21st century when the Northern Ireland’s unionists (those who favor British sovereignty) and nationalists (who wants to have unification with the Republic of Ireland) still hold political clash.

UK greatest contribution to humanity

It’s a common fact that the UK has one of the greatest contributions in the world especially in science, technology, and industry. Ever since the World War II, the most significant exports have been cultural, theater, film, television, and literature. But the greatest contribution to humanity of the UK is the English language. Britain’s language is now spoken to almost every part of the world and served as the top international mediums of economic exchange.

Important Facts about the United Kingdom

Navigation:

• UK Countries
• Land Area
• Oldest Castle in the World
• The Biggest Collections of Books

The United Kingdom remains as one most powerful and influential not to mention the richest countries in the world. Their early beginnings helped shaped countries surrounding them; it’s amazingly rich and yet controversial but very impressive story to tell. It’s great that it inspired most children’s bedtime stories and modern day films. 

There are so many interesting stories and facts surrounding these great nations. Here are some of the little-known facts about the United Kingdom and the rest of Great Britain and more of England’s history. 

UK Countries

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK) comprises of the UK including Great Britain and north-eastern part of Ireland and many smaller islands. Great Britain consists of three countries; England, Scotland, and Wales. To the west, Ireland comprises of Northern Ireland, the Irish Republic and many offshore islands with the largest lying just off Scotland. 

Land Area

The UK is a huge country measuring 242, 500 square km or 93,600 square mi. Interesting enough, it just 113 km or 70 mi from the sea. The longest mainland distance is from Land’s End in Cornwall to John O’Groats in Caithness that stretches about 870 mi. People regularly walk the distance for charitable causes. 

Because its proximity to the sea Scotland is known to have a famous monster called Loch Ness Monster that fascinates many people. Referred to as Nessie, it’s suspected to dwell in Loch Ness, the largest lake in the region. Even though it’s considered as mythological, many claimed to have witnessed the monster over the past decades.

But during ancient times, the British Empire was the most extensive in the world. At one point in time, it ruled an estimate ¼ of the world’s total population and expands about ¼ of the earth’s total land area. From the northern part of Ireland to south of the globe, in New Zealand, the British Empire ruled for centuries.

As there are many countries in the UK, accents vary from one place to another. How vast is the UK? The accents noticeably change every 40 km or 25 mi. The UK has more cities than in any part of the world despite its relatively small area compared to some countries. There are 69 official cities around the UK; 5 in Northern Ireland, 6 in Wales, 7 in Scotland, and 51 in England.

In the ancient times, there are two universities in the UK, Oxford and Cambridge, two of the most prestigious university in the world. They remain so until 1832, but their reputation remains very high to this day. Now, there are more than 100 universities around the United Kingdom. From the well-known ‘red-brick’ universities scattered in major cities to specialist colleges that have upgraded to university status over the years. 

Education was not the only one that the UK contributed to humanity. The UK brought several famous sports to the world like rugby, soccer, and polo. The British are known to be passionate about these sports and the nations under them. 

Another prominent structure in the UK, Stonehenge is older than the Pyramids. The famous tourist attraction located in the south of England was built around 3000 B.C.

The UK was the first ever country to use postage stamps. In May 1840, the first stamp used was known as the Penny Black. Today, many collectible stamps have Queen Elizabeth drawn to it and using it upside down is considered as treason.

Oldest Castle in the world

The Windsor Castle located in the English county of Berkshire is the oldest royal residence in the world. Queen Elizabeth and the rest of the royal family still lives and use the castle for formal occasions. Queen Elizabeth II does not hold a passport but had visited 116 countries in the world. She doesn’t need one as she herself officially issues passports for British citizens. 

Prince Charles is the distant relative of the notorious Romanian ruler, Vlad the Impaler according to the Romanian National Tourist Office. Vlad the Impaler ruled during the 15th century and inspired Bram Stoker to write the famous Dracula novel. 

His daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton is related to another famous person. She was the 8th cousin seven times removed to the first President of the United States, George Washington.

Tea anyone?

It’s true; the British do love their tea. They consume more than 165 million cups of tea each day – 20 times more than what the Americans drink. But it’s not the only thing that the British are peculiar of, 85% of the British people want their food free from pesticide. The date came from the leading organic food campaign, the Soil Association. 

It might be a surprise for some people but the UK has the largest Indian restaurant in the world – more than the actual restaurants in Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi. 

The biggest collections of books

With a history as extensive as the UK, is appropriate enough to have all the recordings of it. Rightly so, the British Library in King’s Cross London has more than 170 million books in its catalog. But a trip to the UK is really complete without first knowing J.K. Rowling and the wizarding world of Harry Potter. Rowling is the first billionaire author and sold more than 400 million copies of the Harry Potter series which was translated over 50 languages around the world. She once lost her billionaire status due to her many charitable causes. 

One can tour the UK, as there are lots of tourist attractions and interesting structures that has deep historical roots. But whatever happens don’t you die in the Houses of Parliament as it’s against their law.