DK Travel : Scotland : Places of interest

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Eilean Donan Castle

No one manages to drive past this castle without leaping for their camera. Small, beautiful and magical, the restored 13th-century fortress of clan Macrae stands on an island in magnificent scenery on the road to Skye (see Eilean Donan Castle) .
Falkland Palace

A wonderful sense of history pervades this palace, the home of Mary Queen of Scots and the Stuart kings from 1541. Restored royal bedchambers and fine 17th-century tapestries are on display, but most intriguing of all is the oldest real tennis court still in use in Britain, built in 1539. Unlike the modern game, real tennis was played indoors and shares some similarities with squash.
Fort George

On a peninsula jutting into the Moray Firth is this vast fort complex, built at enormous expense 250 years ago and still used as an army barracks today. Immensely impressive defences now guard a vintage armoury. Check out the special summer events (see Fort George) .
Fyvie Castle

Dating from 1390, this formidable building is one of the finest examples of Scottish Baronial architecture. Its life through the ages is testified by the mix of contemporary panelling, 17th-century plasterwork and a treasure trove of collectable paintings. Be sure to visit the restored 18th-century walled garden, which specializes in Scottish fruit and vegetables.
Glamis Castle

A royal residence since 1372, this is a magical castle (see Glamis Castle) . A mass of towers and turrets, ancient treasures and a link with Shakespeare’s Macbeth – could you ask for any more in a castle?
Glasgow Science Centre

Housed in a landmark building, three entire floors of hands-on experiments, which puzzle, delight and demonstrate that science is miraculous. There’s an IMAX screen with 3D films, too, and the world’s first revolving tower (see Glasgow Science Centre) .
Glencoe

A rugged mountain range gathered into gorgeous scenery through which the twisting main road seems to creep submissively. A favourite skiing, mountaineering and walking area, and infamous for the terrible 1692 massacre of clan MacDonald (see Glencoe) .
Glenfinnan Monument and Jacobite Steam Train

Another memorial to the Jacobite uprising led by Bonnie Prince Charlie (see Moments in History) , this time on the site where his campaign began. Here, a visitor centre explains the history. The monument is impressive, but the chief attraction is getting here – the scenery en route is stunning. Take time to marvel at the nearby viaduct (featured in the Harry Potter film) and wait for a passing steam train – even better, be in a passing steam train.
Handa Island

Once populated by hardy people who elected a queen and ran their own parliament, Handa was evacuated when the potato crop failed in 1847. Now it is only seabirds that live here – and what a fantastic colony! Of particular note are the belligerent arctic and great skuas, kittiwakes, razor-bills and the largest assembly of guillemots (66,000) in Britain. A ferry from Tarbet will take you to this dramatic island.
Hermaness National Nature Reserve, Shetland

When you look from here to Muckle Flugga lighthouse, you’re gazing at the northernmost tip of Britain. Aside from the view, the cliff-edged reserve is a favourite breeding ground for bonxies (great skuas). Alongside these pirates (they steal food from other sea birds), there are gannets, razor-bills, red-throated divers and a large gathering of tammy nories (puffins).