DK Travel : Scotland

Scotland has an overwhelming abundance of natural beauty, hundreds of castles stand proud from its long and turbulent past, and an innate flair for enterprise and travel has endowed the nation with artistic treasures from around the world. The culture remains vibrant today, and there’s much to celebrate. Here’s a distillation of Scotland’s best.

Penicillin: Alexander Fleming (1881–1955)

In 1928, a chance observation of a mould culture redirected Fleming’s experimentation with antibiotics and led to his discovery of penicillin.
People’s Palace

Typically Glaswegian, this is a museum of ordinary life. Nothing fancy or outstandingly old, but a fascinating insight into how the average family lived, worked and played in the not-so-distant past. The Winter Gardens are connected to the museum and make a tranquil spot to rearrange your thoughts.
Perth

The “Fair City”, as it is known, is attractively situated on the tree-lined River Tay. Despite a complicated oneway system, its streets are a delight of smalltime shops, and it is one of Scotland’s prime spots for browsing and buying. Though it does not boast any notable historical buildings itself, Perth makes a great centre for touring many others found within a short drive. A lovely walk takes you up to a folly on Kinnoull Hill and from here the views are stupendous.
Philipburn Country House

Bistro and restaurant offering light snacks to full meals. It maintains a country-house atmosphere, yet is very good value. Non-smoking.
Pierowall Hotel, Orkney

Come here for the best fish and chips in the isles – probably in Scotland. Nothing fancy but simple home-cooking and plenty of choice.
Pitlochry

This tartan-and-tweed town has a long history of serving visitors. Its proximity to Perthshire’s beauty spots and sporting estates was the original draw, but now it boasts a fine theatre, as well as a fish ladder, where salmon leap up a series of pools to reach their spawning grounds. A perfect introduction to the joys of Scotland.
Pitmedden Garden

The striking patterns and symmetry of the formal Great Garden is like no other. Originally laid out in 1675, the elaborate floral designs were meticulously recreated. The effect is stunning. Also here are idyllic pond and wildlife gardens, and a Museum of Farming Life (see Pitmedden Garden) .
Pitmedden Garden

Originally laid out in a classical French style in 1675, this garden was re-created 50 years ago. Within a vast walled area are four elaborate floral parterres, three of them heraldic designs (see Pitmedden Garden) .
Plockton

Prime candidate for Scotland’s prettiest west-coast village, Plockton has sea, palm trees and a Rare Breeds Farm.
Plumed Horse

A new discovery in an unexpected place. Seriously high quality modern cuisine prepared by chef Tony Borthwick. Gaining popularity by the day, so advance booking is advised.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under £15
- £15–£25
- £25–£35
- £35–£50
- over £50