Things to do in Inveraray

Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll and their family. The history has a variety of historic and modern history on display such as a collection of ancient weapons.

Inveraray Jail and Escape Room

Inveraray Jail and Escape Room is a famous jail and courtroom complexes in the world. This living museum features costumed guides telling true stories of prisoners and staff. Visitors can explore original cells, historic courtrooms and punishment devices to learn Scottish Victorian justice history. Housed inside the old debtor's prison, the escape room is themed on the 1850s. Players work in teams to find clues and solve puzzles inside authentic prison walls.

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle stands atop a volcanic rock cliff at the end of the Royal Mile. For nearly a thousand years, it has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison, bearing witness to Scotland's turbulent history. The castle brings together several iconic buildings and exhibition halls: St Margaret's Chapel, built in the twelfth century, is one of the earliest surviving stone structures in Edinburgh, and this Romanesque chapel still retains its medieval appearance; the One O'Clock Gun, in use since 1861, was originally fired to help calibrate time for ships in the Firth of Forth, a tradition that has continued for more than a hundred years and is one of the castle's most recognizable traditional features. In the Crown Room of the Royal Palace, the Honours of Scotland are displayed alongside the Stone of Destiny; this set of treasures, comprising a crown, a sceptre, and a sword of state, dates back to the sixteenth century and is an important symbol of Scottish sovereignty. The National War Museum on the west side of the castle uses uniforms, medals, and weapons to trace Scotland's centuries of military history. Looking north from the high ramparts of the castle, visitors can take in the magnificent sea views of the Firth of Forth; this is also an excellent spot for overlooking the skyline of Edinburgh's Old Town.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in West Dunbartonshire

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is located on the southern edge of the Scottish Highlands, and the lake itself straddles the Highland Boundary Fault, which divides the Scottish Highlands from the Lowlands. The southern shore is approx. a half-hour drive from downtown Glasgow. It is one of the most expansive freshwater lakes in Scotland and is also renowned for its vastness among all lakes in Great Britain. Due to its geological structure, the northern part of the lake is deep and fjord-like, with steep mountains on both sides, while the southern part is shallow and open, dotted with dozens of lush, wooded islands. The distinct contrast in scenery between the north and south within a single lake is what sets it apart from other lakes. The long-popular Scottish folk song "The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond" adds a touch of romance to these waters.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Edinburgh Old Town

Edinburgh Old Town refers to the old town area of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. The district preserves many buildings from the European Middle Ages and the Scottish Reformation, including notable landmarks such as St. Giles' Cathedral, the General Assembly Hall of the Church of Scotland, the Surgeons' Hall, the National Museum of Scotland, the University of Edinburgh, and the Scottish Parliament Building. Strolling through the streets of Edinburgh Old Town, exploring the unique architecture, pubs, restaurants, and shops on either side, with the occasional sound of beautiful Scottish bagpipe music in the air, is a truly relaxing and enjoyable experience.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and serves as the official residence of His Majesty the King of Scotland, used for state ceremonies and official entertainment. This palace has been a royal residence for over 500 years and is deeply intertwined with Scotland's rich history. A visit to the palace includes the historic apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, where many dramatic events occurred during her brief and tumultuous reign, including the brutal murder of her Italian secretary David Rizzio by her husband Lord Darnley. In the palace's State Apartments, visitors can admire the magnificent Great Gallery, where grand balls were held in September 1745 when Bonnie Prince Charlie established his Jacobite court at the palace. Today's State Apartments reflect the evolving tastes of successive monarchs, renowned for their exquisite plaster ceilings and an unparalleled collection of Brussels tapestries. They house a significant portion of the Royal Collection's artworks, many of which have long-standing connections to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Scotland. A visit to the palace also includes the opportunity to explore the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the palace's unique gardens, set against the backdrop of Arthur's Seat. At the palace café, visitors can enjoy homemade dishes made from local produce, ranging from light snacks and lunches to afternoon tea.

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Crarae Woodland Garden (National Trust for Scotland)

Fyne Ales Brewery Tap & Shop

Loch Awe