Scottish history

From the stone circles that are scattered across Scotland’s islands, which are thought to date back 5,000 years, to the opening of the new Scottish Parliament in 1999, Scotland has a rich and colourful history. As you travel around Scotland, uncover stories of heroes, villains, fallen monarchs and bloody battles. Find out more about Scotland’s literary greats, trace back your family history and marvel at some truly breathtaking castles, monuments and architecture.

Historic sites

Discover over 5,000 years of Scotland’s incredible history by visiting famous battlefields, Neolithic sites, Roman frontiers and hundreds more fascinating historical sites. Browse our list of historical sites in Scotland.

Calanais Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis

Castles

From magnificent city landmarks to mysterious ruins, Scotland is renowned for its iconic castles. Browse our list of castles in Scotland.

Lochranza Castle

Churches & cathedrals

Right across Scotland you will find a wide variety of magnificent churches, cathedrals and abbeys. Browse our list and decide which ones you want to visit.

The restored Abbey on Iona

Historic buildings

Scotland has a fascinating history and a whole range of wonderful historic buldings. Browse our list which includes everything from historic houses to palaces and famous cottages.

Culross Palace

Historic ships

Scotland is home to the oldest British-built warship still afloat and The Royal Yacht Britannia, which sailed the British Royal Family around the world. Browse our list of historic ships.

The RRS Discovery, Discovery Point

Monuments & ruins

From the finest megalithic tomb in the British Isles, to the Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae and the spectacular 220 ft high National Wallace Monument, there is plenty monuments and ruins to visit. Browse our list to start planning your trip.

Scott Monument

Museums

Browse our list of fantastic museums in Scotland such as Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, the National Museum of Scotland, Inveraray Jail and the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.

Riverside Museum

Galleries

Scotland has a long and proud history of world-class artists from the portraiture of Henry Raeburn to the bold designs of the Glasgow Boys and the recent commercial success of Jack Vettriano. Browse our list of galleries in Scotland.

Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum

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Year of Natural Scotland 2013
Year of Natural Scotland 2013

Celebrate Scotland's natural beauty throughout 2013

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A replica of the Declaration of Arbroath on display in Arbroath Abbey

Declaration of Arbroath

Learn about the origins of the Declaration of Arbroath which signified the beginning of Scottish independence.

The inscription on a memorial cairn at Culloden Visitor Centre marking the site of the Battle of Culloden in 1746 near Inverness

Historic sites

Discover Scotland's past at historic sites ranging from battlefields to crumbling ruins and Edinburgh's medieval Old Town.

A portrait of Robert Burns and exhibits at the Robert Burns House Museum in Dumfries

Who was Robert Burns?

Learn about the inspiring life of Robert Burns and how his passion for Scotland and social justice informed his timeless works.

Looking up at a statue of Robert the Bruce on the castle esplanade with the National Wallace Monument behind, Stirling

Robert the Bruce

Experience the story of Robert the Bruce by visiting buildings, fields and caves which played an important role in his life.

History across Scotland

A couple look at Bruce's Stone above Loch Trool in the Galloway Forest Park
Dumfries & Galloway history

Explore the history of Dumfries & Galloway in museums and former homes to hear of romance, triumph, beginnings and ends.

The RRS Discovery, Discovery Point
The Pictish way of life

Learn about Dundee & Angus' past and the country's defining events from the Picts to independence at museums and attractions.

Dunfermline Abbey Church
Scotland's former capital

The Kingdom of Fife has many historical and royal attractions including in Dunfermline, a former capital of Scotland.

Culloden Battlefield at dusk, near Inverness
Highland heritage

The fascinating history is written all over the Highlands which features battlefields, monuments and ancient relics.

The Edinburgh skyline from Holyrood Park with the Castle, the Tolbooth of St John's Kirk, St Giles and the Old Town visible
A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Discover the fascinating history and heritage of Edinburgh & the Lothians through outstanding historical attractions.

The ruins of Dun Carloway Broch, Isle of Lewis
Ancient standing stones

The Outer Hebrides have been inhabited for 6,000 years and many historical sites and standing stones tell of an intriguing past.

Looking across moorland to Hermitage Castle, north of Newcastleton
Battles on the border

The calm countryside of the Scottish Borders belies a turbulent past that can still be seen at ancient ruins and grand estates.

The outside of Balmoral Castle, Aberdeenshire
Queen Victoria's "dear paradise in the Highlands"

Uncover this beautiful part of the world where the royal family have holidayed since the 19th century.

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