This bucolic region became the focus of Scotland’s first tourist industry in early Victorian times, and, with Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park at its splendid centre, that allure remains as strong today. In the west are the rocky peaks of the Isle of Arran and a seaboard of fjord-like lochs, where a mild climate supports some splendid gardens. In the east stands Stirling – a key town in the country’s warring past – its mighty clifftop castle overlooking lush farmland. Here, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce fought for independence, a battle eventually won within sight of the castle on the field of Bannockburn.
For a fabulous place to stay by the shores of Loch Lomond (see Cameron House, Loch Lomond)-
Tesco is a supermarket chain that's taking over the UK with their products and deals. You'll find them everywhere, but we especially prefer our 24hr Tesco. Advisable to only shop here for essentials or in possession of a good salary..
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Morning
Reserve your morning cruise on the SS Sir Walter Scott (Tel (01877) 376316) in advance, and note that it does not run on Wednesday mornings.
Leave Glasgow by 8:45am, driving north on the A81 to Strathblane and Aberfoyle. You are now in the scenic and famous Trossachs. Park at the Trossachs Pier for your 11am cruise on Loch Katrine, a gorgeous secluded loch.
You arrive back at 12:45pm and a short drive takes you to Kilmahog (great name, but the Woollen Mill is pretty touristy), so pass it by unless you’re overly curious about knitwear. Head on to Callander for lunch, where there’s plenty of choice, or buy delicious pies at the Scotch Oven, a superb baker, and picnic by the river.
Afternoon
Carry on to Doune, Dunblane and Bridge of Allan. There are many temptations en route – castle (see Doune Castle) , safari park, motor museum – and you may fall by the way.
If not, however, aim to be at the Wallace Monument before 4pm. The slice of history here is extremely palatable, accompanied by panoramic views of the area, including the craggy heights of Stirling Castle.
Finally, wend your way up into moorland for dinner at the Sheriffmuir Inn . Either head back to Glasgow or go further east to stay at Edinburgh or St Andrews (about an hour’s journey to each by car).
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The Michelin star first stopped overhead in 1990, and this country hotel restaurant hasn’t looked back since (see Airds Hotel) .
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A dazzling assembly of rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and hosts of exotics from the Pacific Islands to the Himalayas. Arduaine is beautifully situated on a promontory between sea lochs, and glories in the warm winds from the Gulf Stream (see Arduaine Gardens) .
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A novel outdoor museum of restored thatched cottages and outbuildings, showing the past styles of West Highland life.
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The site of the decisive battle in 1314 (see Battle of Bannockburn) is marked by a visitor centre and an arresting equestrian statue of Robert the Bruce. At the centre, kids can try on helmets and chainmail, and view Bruce’s cave to watch the fabled spider who inspired him to renew his fight.
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As if elephants, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, lions, meercats and ring-tailed lemurs weren’t enough, you can also see your first lechwe (unless, of course, you’re already au fait with these African antelopes). Beyond the animal life, this is also a terrific play centre, with a giant Astraglide, a Flying Fox and pedalos for getting to Chimpanzee Island.
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The best-preserved charcoal-fuelled ironworks in Britain. Learn how iron was made here in 1753 in this lovely setting by Loch Etive.
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Originally a Viking keep before the Dukes of Hamilton claimed it, this 13th-century fortified tower was extended by Oliver Cromwell and then transformed into a stately home in Victorian times. The last Hamilton moved out only in 1957. A solid red sandstone building with fanciful trimmings, it contains a noted collection of silver, porcelain and paintings. The gardens are beautifully maintained (try to catch the rhododendrons in spring bloom), as are the woodland trails. The main ferry to Arran (just under an hour) is from Ardrossan, on the mainland coast, just north of Irvine.
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Unnoteworthy in appearance or location, but excellent food. Bar menu and à la carte in a cottage atmosphere. Eat outside in summer.
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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.
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