Category: Scotland

Edinburgh Travel Guide: What to See, Do & Know Before You Go

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys
Edinburgh Castle sitting on the rocks high above Princes Park.

Planning a trip to Edinburgh? Scotland’s capital is compact, walkable, and packed with history, making it one of the best city breaks in the UK. A top must-visit destination.

From iconic landmarks to quiet hidden corners, here’s a practical guide to help you plan your visit.

Top Things to See in Edinburgh

1. Edinburgh Castle

Perched high on Castle Rock, this is Edinburgh’s most famous landmark — and for good reason. Silently, watching over the city, it presents a formidable and protective silhouette. Providing breathtaking, panoramic views of the city below.

Why visit:

  • Scotland’s Crown Jewels (The Honours of Scotland)
  • The Stone of Destiny
  • Panoramic city views
  • Military history exhibitions
  • The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Festival (takes place on the Castle grounds in August). A must if you love to hear the pipers.

Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially during summer and festival season. Visit early in the day for fewer crowds. It can get a little tight inside some of the viewing areas, with long-winding lines.

2. Royal Mile

Stretching from the castle to Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is the historic backbone of the Old Town.

St. Giles' Cathedral is located on the Royal Mile
St. Giles Cathedral

What to do here:

  • Explore hidden closes (alleyways). You never know what you’ll find down them. If you’re interested in what lies beneath the Royal Mile, the Real Mary King’s Close is a must. They take you on a tour beneath the city and tell the tales of the people that lived there. Edinburgh’s dark past comes alive.
  • Visit St Giles’ Cathedral – a beautiful cathedral, open to all for worship, quiet reflection, or to simply experience the history within its walls.
  • Browse independent shops – who doesn’t love to shop. Note, a mass of tourist shops have popped up on the Royal Mile, do your research and support local, independent shops.
  • Stop in traditional pubs. There is no shortage of them to choose from.
  • Immerse yourselves in Scottish history by strolling the entire Royal Mile. From the commanding heights of Edinburgh Castle to the historic Palace of Holyroodhouse, this iconic route is a treasure trove of stories, narrow closes, and stunning architecture

Tip: It’s busiest mid-day. Early morning or evening offers a quieter experience.

3. Arthur’s Seat

An extinct volcano located in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat offers one of the best views in Scotland.

Arthur's Seat is a 251-meter (823-foot) high dormant volcano located in Edinburgh's Holyrood Park, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the Edinburgh and surrounding areas.
Arthur’s Seat

Good to know:

  • Allow 1–2 hours for the walk depending on your fitness level. It is considered of moderate difficulty with steep, rocky and muddy areas.
  • There are two routes. The most straightforward, and popular path, starts near Holyrood Palace (east end of the Royal Mile). Another less steep option, starts from the south at Dunsapie Loch.
  • Wear sturdy footwear
  • Wind can be strong at the summit
  • Bring water. No facilities at the top.

This is a must if you enjoy a bit of outdoor adventure alongside city sightseeing. Great for working off that pub lunch.

4. Victoria Street

A curved, colourful street in the Old Town known for its character and independent shops. It’s one of the most photographed streets in Edinburgh. And the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

Victoria Street, Edinburgh. Famous, curved, and steeply sloped street in Edinburgh's Old Town. Renowned for its colorful 17th-century buildings, boutique shops, and cafes.
Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s Old Town

Great for:

  • Unique souvenirs
  • Coffee stops
  • Atmosphere and photos

5. Dean Village

A peaceful, residential neighborhood in Edinburgh that began as a milling hamlet in the 12th century. It lies along the Water of Leith, just a short walk from the city centre. A fairy-tale like, picturesque village that provides a quieter break from the Royal Mile crowds.

6. Explore Edinburgh’s New Town

Edinburgh isn’t just medieval Old Town. The Georgian architecture of New Town offers wide streets, elegant squares, and shopping along Princes Street. The area is packed with cafes, cocktail bars, and restaurants. If you’ve had enough of pub food, and want something a little higher end or trendy, you’ll find it in this area.

It’s a completely different feel — and worth exploring to understand the city’s full character. Edinburgh is an amazing adventure of exploration.

Best Time to Visit Edinburgh

  • Spring (April–June): Mild weather, fewer crowds
  • Summer (July–August): Festival season, very busy but electric atmosphere
  • Autumn (September–October): Quieter and atmospheric
  • Winter: Festive markets and dramatic skies

If you prefer a slower pace, avoid August when the Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes over the city.

Our favourite time to explore is early May before the summer crowds, or mid-September when things have quieted down a bit. That being said, Edinburgh thrives all year round and there is always something to enjoy.

We’ve also enjoyed visiting at the end of November, when the Christmas festivities begin (markets, outdoor skating, Christmas light shows, and more). It’s less busy at this time than closer to Christmas.

How Many Days Do You Need?

2 days: Main highlights (Castle, Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, Arthur’s Seat).

If you need a break from the walking, the Hop-On Hop-Off bus is a great way to see all the sights in a shorter time. You can hop-on and off wherever you like, or stay on board for a full circuit to see the sights and decide what you’d like to explore further.

3 days: Add museums, Dean Village, and relaxed exploring

4+ days: Day trips (e.g., Highlands, St Andrews, or the Borders).

If you’re exploring beyond the city, consider visiting Dunnottar Castle near Stonehaven – one of Scotland’s most dramatic cliffside castles. The train from Edinburgh Waverley to Stonehaven takes just under three hours. The walk from Stonehaven to Dunnottar castle is approximately 45 minutes.

Many visitors combine Edinburgh with a trip to the Isle of Skye for dramatic landscapes and Highland scenery.

For ancient history lovers, the Orkney Islands offer some of the best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe.

Why not join a tour from Edinburgh and leave the driving to them. One of our favourite small group tour operators is Rabbies. We’ve had some amazing adventures with them. Perfect for when you want to make the most of your time.

Where to Stay

  • Old Town: Close to major attractions, historic atmosphere
  • New Town: Elegant, central, and slightly quieter
  • Leith: Trendy waterfront area with excellent restaurants

Choose accommodation within walking distance of the Royal Mile if it’s your first visit. Edinburgh is very walkable. We like to stay close to the Waverley Train Station, as it’s central and easy when traveling around Scotland by train. .

Getting Around

  • The city centre is highly walkable
  • Buses are reliable and affordable
  • The Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off bus is a great way to see the sights, and save the feet.
  • Edinburgh Airport has a direct tram connection to the city centre

You likely won’t need a car unless planning day trips outside the city.

Practical Travel Tips for Edinburgh

  • Book castle tickets in advance
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes (cobbles + hills!)
  • Bring layers — weather changes quickly
  • Plan early starts for popular sites
  • Leave space in your itinerary for wandering
  • Choose the sights that are most important to you. Don’t try to do everything at once.
  • And Most Important – Enjoy!

Edinburgh is best experienced slowly.

Planning a wider trip? Don’t miss our complete Scotland travel tips guide to help you prepare.

Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. No matter how many times we’ve visited, Edinburgh is still a favourite stop. The starting point for many of our Scotland adventures.

Few cities combine dramatic landscapes, medieval architecture, royal history, and walkability as seamlessly as Edinburgh. Whether it’s your first time in Scotland or a return visit, it’s a destination that rewards curiosity.

Isle of Skye – Beauty, Belonging & a Harbour Full of History

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys
Portree Harbour on the Isle of Skye where Selkirk settlers sailed out of in 1803

There are places that are beautiful… and then there are places that feel personal.

The Isle of Skye is both.

From the moment we crossed the bridge onto the island, the landscape felt almost cinematic. Rugged peaks rising dramatically from the earth, moody skies rolling over open moorland, and that unmistakable Highland light that shifts by the minute. But this wasn’t just another scenic stop on our Scotland travels. It held something deeper for me. My Isle of Skye family history called me to it.

The Beauty of Skye

The Isle of Skye is wild in the way only Scotland can be.

The jagged outline of the Old Man of Storr rising above the Trotternish Ridge.

The sweeping, otherworldly landscapes of the Quiraing.

The Quiriang on the Isle of Skye

The waterfalls tumbling into the sea at Kilt Rock.

And quiet moments along the shores near Portree, where pastel-coloured buildings curve gently around the harbour.

Dramatic and windswept. Romantic and raw. A place that feels untamed yet deeply rooted in history.

But for me, the most powerful moment wasn’t on a cliff edge or mountain trail.

It was standing still in the harbour at Portree.

Isle of Skye Family History – A Harbour Full of Emotion

I stood there looking out over the water, trying to imagine the summer of 1803.

In July of that year, a ship called the Polly sailed from Portree Harbour. On board were Highland families, displaced by the Clearances. They were bound for a new life in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Part of what became known as the Selkirk Settlers.

My ancestors were among them.

They left behind the dramatic beauty of Skye — the hills, the language, and community — and sailed across the Atlantic toward uncertainty. Toward a land unknown, and what would eventually become part of my own story.

Standing there, I found myself wondering:
  • What did they feel as the shoreline grew smaller?
  • Was it hope? Fear? Grief? Determination?
  • Did they look back at these hills the way I was looking at them now?

The water in the harbour was calm the day we visited. It’s hard to reconcile that stillness with the reality of an 1803 Atlantic crossing.

A Full-Circle Moment

Living on Vancouver Island, exploring British Columbia, and tracing our love for Scotland through TravellingWilbys, I often feel the threads between the UK and Canada. And have wondered why I feel such a pull towards Scotland.

But Skye made it tangible.

The journey my ancestors began in Portree shaped generations to come — eventually leading to Prince Edward Island, then further across Canada, and finally to me standing back on Skye more than two centuries later.

Travel sometimes feels like sightseeing.

Other times, it feels like remembering.

Skye was remembering.

Why Skye Will Always Be Special to Me

Yes, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

Yes, the landscapes are unforgettable.

Yes, it deserves every bit of the hype.

But for me, it’s more than a destination.
  • It’s a departure point.
  • It’s a beginning.
  • It’s a place where past and present quietly meet along a harbour wall.

And as we left Portree, I didn’t just feel like a visitor.

A place I had only read about had become real. I felt connected ❤

Travel Tips for Scotland: A Practical Guide for First-Time Visitors

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys
A Travelling Wilbys Guide to Making the Most of Your Trip

Living on Vancouver Island, we’re surrounded by wild coastline, moody skies, and dramatic natural beauty. It’s home — and we love it deeply.

But Scotland? Scotland feels like a kindred spirit. A Home away from Home.

The rugged cliffs, the ancient castles, the sea air, the quiet villages — it reminds us of the raw beauty we know here on the West Coast of Canada, but layered with thousands of years of history. As self-proclaimed history lovers (and slightly introverted adventurers), Scotland feels like it was made for us. The history is like nothing we have seen before. Leaving us in a continual sense of awe. A place we could explore every inch of, and still want more.

Over the years, we’ve learned that travelling around Scotland is equal parts magic and smart planning. It’s romantic and rugged — but also practical. So if you’re dreaming of your own Scottish adventure, here are our favourite travel tips to help you experience it fully — and intentionally.

1. Don’t Rush It

One of the biggest lessons we learned early on? Scotland is not a checklist destination. Leave time for the unexpected, as the unexpected will happen.

When we first mapped out routes between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye, it looked manageable. However, Scotland has a way of slowing you down — in the best possible way.

Glen Coe

You’ll stop for:

  • Unexpected viewpoints
  • Castle ruins you hadn’t planned for
  • Coastal walks that call your name
  • Tiny cafés tucked into villages
  • One or two of the many 30,000 freshwater lochs throughout Scotland. Perhaps, you’ve spotted Nessie.
  • The perfect photo . Heaven knows, I can’t pass up a Hairy Coo (Highland Cow).

The magic is often between the destinations. Never knowing what might present itself before you. You’re on an adventure, let it unfold.

2. Rent a Car for Freedom

While trains connect major cities like Glasgow and Inverness, the places that steal your heart are often off the main routes.

Some of our most memorable moments happened because we had the freedom to pull over and explore.

If you’re dreaming of:

  • The Highlands
  • Coastal cliffside castles
  • Island hopping
  • Remote glens

A car makes all the difference.

3. Book a Tour

If you’re not into doing the driving, especially on the opposite side of the road, then book a tour. We have had many incredible trips where we booked a portion of it as a guided tour. We are especially partial to the smaller group tours.

Best Part:

Sit back and relax. No worries about driving on the opposite side of the road, navigating traffic, or finding parking. Your only job is to enjoy the sights before you.

Knowledgeable guides. Trained local guides are able to provide the history and stories that go far beyond the guidebooks. They are able to take you off the beaten path, and their love for their country shines through. We have had some amazing small group tours with Rabbies. This is one we highly recommend.

Time Efficiency. If you’re short on time, a tour is the perfect way to see more. We are always amazed by how much ground we are able to cover in a day, without feeling overwhelmed. Everything is taken care of for you!

Interact with like-minded travelers.

Exclusive Access at popular attractions. No lining up for tickets. Most tours will take care of this for you by pre-purchasing your tickets to sights and booking times ahead. We did this for many of the Neolithic sights on Orkney. All we had to do was get off the bus and go.

Safety and Security. While this isn’t one we really worry about in Scotland, it is nice to know that you have a local guide who is able to answer questions and help in a pinch.

4. Pack for Changing Weather (Always)

If Vancouver Island has taught us anything, it’s that coastal weather has a personality of its own — and Scotland’s is even more dramatic.

Standing Stones Stenness

We’ve experienced sunshine, mist, wind, and rain all in one afternoon.

Our must-pack list:
  • Waterproof jacket/rainpants
  • Hat/Gloves
  • Layers – always layers, easy to take on and off when the weather changes
  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots if you plan to hit the trails
  • A scarf. You never know when a cold wind will blow through.
  • Sunblock – Yes, we have learned that Scotland weather is not always what you think. Last time we were over, Edinburgh was having summer-like weather in early May.

The ever-changing skies are part of what Scotland feel cinematic and unforgettable.

5. Book Early — Especially in Peak Season

Scotland is no longer a hidden gem — and rightly so.

If you’re visiting between May and September, or during events like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival or Tattoo, accommodation fills quickly. The earlier you book, the better.

The same goes for smaller areas like:

Charming, intimate stays are part of Scotland’s appeal — but they’re limited. And it seems everyone wants to visit. If at all possible, book off season not prime tourist season. But even those times can book fast.

6. Go Beyond the Obvious

Yes, Edinburgh is stunning. Yes, Glasgow has incredible culture and energy.

But some of our favourite memories have been in quieter corners — standing alone along a windswept coastline, exploring Neolithic sites in Orkney, or walking from Stonehaven to Dunnottar with barely another soul in sight.

Dunnottar Castle

Scotland rewards curiosity. And there is much to be curious about.

7. Respect the Landscape

As travellers who come from another rugged coastal region, we deeply value protecting wild places. They are to be enjoyed, not spoiled.

Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code:
  • Leave no trace
  • Close gates
  • Respect livestock
  • Park responsibly

Scotland’s landscapes have endured for millennia. It’s a privilege to walk them. May they stay protected for a very long time.

8. Make Time for History

This is the part that always gets us.

You can wander medieval closes in Edinburgh, stand atop the cliffs at Dunnottar Castle, or explore Neolithic wonders in the Orkney Islands — and feel genuinely connected to the past.

History in Scotland isn’t polished or distant.

It’s raw. It’s layered. It’s emotional.

9. Embrace the Quiet

As introverts who still crave adventure, Scotland feels like balance.

  • Early morning castle walks.
  • Windy cliffside pauses.
  • Moments of stillness in the Highlands.
  • A stolen moment on a windswept, deserted beach.

You don’t have to chase the loudest experiences to feel something profound here.

Sometimes it’s just you, the wind, and centuries of stories.

Final Thoughts from Vancouver Island to Scotland

Even though we call Vancouver Island home, a piece of our hearts always feels pulled toward Scotland.

Maybe it’s the shared coastal wildness. Maybe it’s the history. Maybe it’s that sense of romantic solitude.

Whatever it is, it has us hooked!

If you’re planning your own Scotland adventure, we hope these tips help you travel slower, deeper, and more intentionally.

However, if you’re not planning one yet… consider this your sign 🤍

Stonehaven to Dunnottar – One of Scotland’s Most Dramatic Castles

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

Scotland is filled with dramatic moments. Things that take your breath away. Cause you to stop, and wonder if you’re truly seeing what is before you. One of our favourite walks in Scotland is the coastal walk from Stonehaven to Dunnottar Castle. It’s the kind of experience that combines history, scenery, fresh sea air, and just enough adventure to make you feel like you’ve truly discovered something special.

If you’re visiting northeast Scotland, this walk is absolutely worth adding to your plans. Dunnottar truly is, one of Scotland’s most dramatic castles.

Starting in Stonehaven

Stonehaven itself is a lovely seaside town and the perfect place to begin the journey. From the harbour area, you can follow the coastal path south toward the cliffs. The route is well-marked and easy to follow, making it suitable for most walkers, though there are a few hills along the way. Just pace yourself, no need to rush. Enjoy the scenery along the way.

The walk takes around 30–45 minutes at a relaxed pace, but you’ll likely stop often to take photos. The views along the North Sea are stunning, with rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and seabirds soaring overhead. Nothing brings us feelings of home more than the sights and sounds of the sea.

First Glimpse of the Castle 🏰

The best part of the walk is when Dunnottar Castle suddenly comes into view. Sitting dramatically on a rocky headland, surrounded almost entirely by steep cliffs and the sea, it feels like something straight out of a movie. And Hollywood does love Dunnottar Castle. It was even the inspiration for the family castle in the animated film, Brave.

Even before reaching the castle entrance, there are several viewpoints along the path where you can stop and admire the ruins from afar. Honestly, some of our favourite photos were taken before we even arrived at the castle gates. Anticipation of what was to come!

Exploring Dunnottar Castle

Reaching the castle involves descending and then climbing a series of steps carved into the cliffside. It adds to the sense of adventure and makes arrival feel even more rewarding.

Once inside, you can wander through the remains of towers, halls, and defensive structures while learning about the castle’s long and dramatic history. Standing on the cliff edges, surrounded by endless sea views, it’s easy to imagine how powerful and strategic this place once was.

The setting alone makes it unforgettable.

Why We Loved This Walk

What made this experience special for us wasn’t just the castle itself, but the journey getting there. Walking the coastline, watching the waves below, and slowly seeing the castle appear ahead made the visit feel earned rather than simply driven to.

It’s peaceful, scenic, and deeply atmospheric — exactly the kind of travel moment we’re always chasing.

Tips for Visiting

  • Wear comfortable shoes — parts of the path are uneven.
  • Bring a jacket; coastal winds can be strong even on sunny days.
  • Allow extra time for photos and viewpoints. If you’re like us, we hate to miss a shot, the camera is always ready to capture them all.
  • Stop back in Stonehaven afterward for coffee or a bite by the harbour. Perfect setting for fish and chips. Better yet, a pint of beer overlooking the harbour, whilst eating fish and chips. Highly recommended by Richard.

A Walk We’d Do Again

Some places stick with you long after you leave, and this walk is definitely one of them. If you’re planning a trip through Scotland, the Stonehaven to Dunnottar Castle walk is one experience we’d happily repeat.

And honestly, we probably will.

  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Dunnotar Castle
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Dunnottar Castle

Why We Fell in Love with the Orkney Islands

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

There are some places that impress you, and then there are places that stay with you long after you leave. For us, the Orkney Islands are firmly in the second category.

Sitting off Scotland’s northern coast, Orkney feels both remote and welcoming — a place where dramatic landscapes meet thousands of years of human history. We came for the famous ancient sites, but we left completely captivated by the islands themselves.

Orkney isn’t just somewhere you visit. It’s somewhere you feel. And it definitely provided all of that, and more.

Walking Through 5,000 Years of History

As self-confessed history lovers, Orkney had been high on our travel wish list for a long time. The islands hold some of Europe’s most important Neolithic sites, and seeing them in person was even more powerful than we imagined.

Standing in Skara Brae, a stone village built over 5,000 years ago, felt surreal. Walking through preserved homes, seeing ancient beds, storage spaces, and passageways, you suddenly realize how connected we are to people who lived thousands of years before us.

Skara Brae

Nearby, the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness rise quietly from the landscape, surrounded by lochs and open skies. These sites feel both mysterious and peaceful, and simply standing among them gives you time to reflect on how long humans have called these islands home.

Ring of Brodgar

And then there’s Maeshowe, a chambered tomb older than the pyramids, where Viking runes carved into stone tell stories of later visitors who also stood in awe of this ancient place. We found it truly fascinating.

Few destinations make history feel so alive.

Maeshowe

Scenery That Feels Wild and Peaceful

Beyond the ancient sites, Orkney’s natural beauty surprised us just as much.

The islands are shaped by wind and sea, creating rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and quiet beaches where you often find yourself completely alone. We loved nothing better than standing on a secluded beach, and taking it all in. Feeling all the feels. Changing light over the water, seabirds calling out, and wide open skies creating a feeling of calm that’s hard to describe. It’s the kind of place where you slow down without even trying.

To make it even better – we will share a secret. We like to completely immerse ourselves in those elements, sit on the beach, and play a favourite tune – “Still” by Beluga Lagoon. Close our eyes, turn up the volume, and just BE! Letting the stress and worries of life float away. You can’t help but truly feel alive – surrounded by the ocean and the lyrical sound of the music. Silliness or what, it sends shivers down our spines and is a great way to let go. This group was introduced to us by one of our Scottish tour guides. The group was founded by Scottish wildlife film-maker, Andrew O’Donnell.

A Different Kind of Scottish Experience

Orkney feels different from mainland Scotland. There’s a quieter rhythm here, and life seems deeply connected to the sea and the land.

The blend of Scottish and Viking history, friendly locals, and small harbour towns gives the islands a unique character. It never felt crowded or rushed — just welcoming and genuine.

We loved that exploring Orkney felt like discovery rather than tourism.

Would We Return?

Without hesitation — yes.

There are still coastal walks to explore, smaller islands to visit, and more history to uncover. Orkney feels like a place you could return to again and again and always find something new.

Tips for Visiting the Orkney Islands

If you’re considering a trip, here are a few things we found helpful:

  • Stay at least 3–4 days There’s more to see than you might expect, and the pace of the islands deserves time.
  • Rent a car Public transport is limited, and many of the best sites are spread out.
  • Book a tour See the sites with a local. Sit back, enjoy the scenery, and listen to their stories. Share in their love for their island.
  • Book accommodations early Options are limited and fill quickly, especially in summer.
  • Be ready for changing weather Sun, wind, and rain can all appear in the same day.

Why Orkney Stayed With Us

Some destinations impress you with beauty. Others amaze you with history. Orkney does both — and adds a quiet atmosphere that makes you feel connected to the past and present at the same time.

Long after leaving, we still find ourselves thinking about those windswept cliffs, ancient stone circles, and peaceful coastal roads.

And we know we’ll be back.

  • Ring of Brodgar
  • Beach at Skara Brae
  • Farm Fields around Maeshowe
  • Maeshowe
  • The Italian Chapel
  • St. Magnus Cathedral
  • Standing Stones Stenness
  • Stromness, Orkney

Walking in the Footsteps of 5,000 Years – Our Visit to the Ring of Brodgar, Orkney

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys
The wind carried whispers across the heather as we stepped into the circle. Standing among the ancient stones of the Ring of Brodgar, we weren’t just in Orkney — we were in another time.

Getting There

The Ring of Brodgar sits proudly on Orkney’s Mainland, surrounded by lochs and rolling moorland. We reached it after a scenic drive around Orkney; and a visit to Orkney’s other Neolithic sites. We had spent the night in Kirkwall (Orkney’s largest city) after arriving by ferry from the mainland the day before. The site is well signposted, with a small parking area just a short walk from the stones. Best of all, it’s free to visit year-round, and accessible for most, though the path can be muddy after rain.

A Little History

Dating back around 5,000 years, the Ring of Brodgar is part of Orkney’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. It’s one of the largest stone circles in the UK, thought to have been a ceremonial or ritual site. While the exact purpose is still shrouded in mystery, it’s linked to other ancient sites nearby, like the Stones of Stenness and the prehistoric village of Skara Brae.

Our Experience

The first thing we noticed was the wind. Orkney seems to have a special talent for it — the kind that sweeps through your hair and makes you feel alive. As we wandered between the towering stones, their weathered surfaces told silent stories of thousands of seasons gone by.

One moment, clouds cast dramatic shadows over the circle; the next, a burst of sunlight lit up the entire landscape. We felt small here — not in a bad way, but in the best possible way, as if we were part of something timeless.

Tips for Visitors

  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late evening for softer light and fewer visitors.
  • Weather: Dress for all seasons — even in summer, the wind can be fierce.
  • Combine your visit: Pair it with trips to the Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe, and Skara Brae for a full Neolithic experience. An experience I found overwhelming in so many ways, but in a good way. It is hard to fathom 5000 years ago, and there is so much more that they are still uncovering to this day.
  • Photography: Wide-angle shots capture the full circle, but don’t forget to zoom in on the beautiful stone textures.

Why We’ll Never Forget It

The Ring of Brodgar isn’t just a place you see — it’s a place you feel. It’s history you can walk through, touch, and hear in the rustle of the grass and the rush of the wind. Long after we left, we could still picture the stones standing silently against the Orkney sky, as they have for millennia.

If you ever find yourself in northern Scotland, let Orkney call you. And when it does, go stand in that circle and see what whispers the wind will carry to you. You won’t be disappointed.

Culloden Moor: Walking Through Scotland’s Last Battlefield

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

A Place Where History Changed Forever

In the windswept Highlands, just outside Inverness, lies Culloden Moor – Scotland’s last battlefield.  A quiet field that witnessed one of the most decisive and tragic moments in Scottish history.

On April 16, 1746, the Jacobite army, loyal to Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie), met the government forces led by the Duke of Cumberland.

The battle was short, lasting less than an hour, but it claimed the lives of around 1,500 men — most of them Highlanders.

The defeat crushed the Jacobite cause and led to sweeping changes in the Highlands, forever altering Scottish culture and way of life.

The Battle in Brief

  • The Jacobite Cause: After marching deep into England in hopes of reclaiming the British throne, the Jacobites retreated to the Highlands in the harsh winter of 1745–46.
  • The Battlefield: Exhausted and underfed, the Highland forces faced well-rested, heavily armed government troops on the open moor — terrain that gave them no advantage.
  • The Outcome: In less than an hour, the Jacobite lines broke. Many survivors were hunted down in the days that followed.
  • The Aftermath: Traditional Highland dress and culture were suppressed, clan chiefs lost power, and the Highlands entered a period of harsh repression.

What to See at Culloden Today

1. The Memorial Cairn
Built in 1881, the large stone cairn stands at the centre of the battlefield as a solemn tribute to the fallen Highlanders.

2. The Clan Graves
Simple headstones mark the mass graves where members of clans such as Fraser, MacGillivray, MacLean, and others were buried. These stones are among the most moving sights on the moor.

3. Leanach Cottage
A thatched croft that survived the battle, Leanach Cottage offers a glimpse into 18th-century Highland life.

4. The Visitor Centre
Interactive displays, immersive battle simulations, and original artefacts bring the history to life. From weapons to personal stories, it’s a must-visit before stepping onto the moor itself.

The Atmosphere of the Moor

Culloden is not just a historic site — it’s an experience. The wind sweeps across the open land, carrying with it a deep stillness. The heather sways, the clouds roll in quickly, and you can almost hear echoes of the past. Many visitors describe feeling an unshakable sense of loss and respect as they walk among the stones.

Tips for Visiting Culloden

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn offer mild weather and beautiful light for photography. Early morning or late afternoon is perfect for quiet reflection.
  • Allow Time: Set aside at least two hours — one for the visitor centre and one for walking the battlefield.
  • Dress for the Weather: The moor is exposed, so bring layers and waterproofs.
  • Nearby Sights: The prehistoric Clava Cairns are just a short drive away and well worth a visit.

Why Culloden Still Matters

Culloden marks the end of the Jacobite dream, but it also stands as a powerful reminder of resilience, culture, and the cost of war. Visiting this moor is not just about looking back — it’s about carrying those stories forward.

The Museum does an amazing job of taking you on a journey through the Jacobite Rising of 1745. We would highly recommend not rushing through this part. It gives you a better understanding of the battle from both the Jacobite and Government sides. Archaeological finds from the battlefield are also on display and have helped interpret important details from the battle.

Stepping outside and onto the the battlefield, you now have a better understanding of what happened that fateful day. You can see in your mind’s eye the battle as it unfolded. Do you hear the sounds of the battle carried on the wind?

Final Thought:
Culloden Moor is a place where history is etched into the land itself. Standing here, you don’t just read about the past — you feel it. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of Scotland’s wild beauty, or someone tracing their clan roots, Culloden is a site that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

  • Leanach Cottage
  • Culloden Memorial Cairn
  • Clan Gravestone
  • Clan Gravestones
    Clan Gravestone