As a student exploring Scotland, you’ll find an abundance of captivating destinations. However, choosing between paid attractions and free ones can be challenging. To simplify your decision-making process, City Room Rentals has curated a list of the top 10 accessible, budget-friendly, and enjoyable places to visit in Scotland.
1) Edinburgh Castle-
Edinburgh Castle, nestled in the very heart of Scotland, graces the capital city with its presence. Offering breathtaking views, this historic fortress is an absolute essential when exploring Scotland. Sitting atop an extinct volcano, the castle sprawls across 2.8 hectares of land, boasting an impressive collection of 27 buildings.
Throughout its past, this fortress has withstood numerous sieges during the Wars of Independence. Its ancient walls have witnessed the footsteps of figures like Queen Margaret, Mary Queen of Scots, and King James the Fourth.
Step inside and immerse yourself in history. Relive the epic tales of the War of Independence, marvel at meticulously crafted replicas of Mary Queen of Scots’ embroideries from her exile, and behold the Honours of Scotland—the oldest crown jewels in Britain.
The castle offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be explored. From hidden chambers to grand halls, every corner echoes with centuries-old stories. And for a mere £19.50, an adult ticket grants you access to this captivating journey through time—a true treasure trove for history enthusiasts!
2) The Kelpies-
The Legend of the Kelpies is from Scottish folklore where a white or grey shape-shifting horse would appear to humans and persuade them to ride on their back before taking them into the water and an early grave. Although this Scottish myth may be gruesome the magnificent structure of the mythical creatures is in Falkirk. They are 30 meters tall and have a beautiful view from the top. At night you can see them light up illuminating the sky. Andy Scott the creator of the piece finished the project in 2013 now 11 years later the art piece is just as phenomenal as when built.
To explore the art piece, you can get a guided tour for only £7. That's a bargain!
3) Loch Lomond-
Beinn Laomainn, derived from the Scottish Gaelic term for ‘Beacon Mountain’, holds a fascinating history. Legend has it that this mountain once served as a lookout point for beacon fires in ancient times. Nearby lies the tranquil Loch Laomainn, which, when translated into English, becomes Ben Lomond and Loch Lomond.
Ben Lomond, stands tall at 974 meters (3,196 feet), is Scotland’s most southerly Munro—a classification for mountains exceeding 3,000 feet. Within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, there are breathtaking views of the entire length of the loch and its picturesque islands.
The loch itself spans an impressive 36 kilometers in length, with a maximum width of up to 8 kilometers. Its depths reach 0.2 kilometers, covering a vast surface area of 71 square kilometers. The loch and the mountain are free to attend and wonder.
4) Edinburgh Dungeon-
If you’re seeking spine-tingling thrills, look no further than the Edinburgh Dungeons. This captivating 70-minute walkthrough experience delves into Scotland’s ghastly past, immersing you in tales of intrigue and terror.
As you journey through dimly lit corridors, encounter live actors who bring historical figures to life. Learn about the notorious Sawney Bean, the enigmatic Scottish witch Agnes Finnie, and the infamous duo of Burke and Hare.
The chilling activities include a visit to the courtroom and the witch’s judgment where dark secrets were revealed. Explore the mysterious Edinburgh vaults, witness the grim business of murder in the Burke and Hare, and discover other spine-chilling surprises.
Tickets are priced between £19 and £26 when pre-booked. Conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Edinburgh’s Waverley Train Station, the Dungeons allow you to explore the heart of Edinburgh for the remainder of your day.
5) Stirling Castle-
Stirling Castles is steeped in history dating back to the 12th century and stands as a magnificent relic of Scotland’s past. Although the castle we see today primarily took shape during the 15th and 16th centuries, its ancient stones hold echoes of royal intrigue and strategic significance.
Much like its counterpart, Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle perches atop an extinct volcano, offering views of the surrounding landscape. Over the centuries, it has withstood approximately 16 attacks, including the 1304 siege led by Edward the First. Within these storied walls, notable figures such as Robert the Bruce and King James the Fourth have left their indelible marks.
Venturing within the castle grounds, visitors can explore a wealth of captivating experiences:
- Guided Tours: Unearth hidden tales and secrets with knowledgeable guides.
- Unicorn Trail: Meander along this enchanting path, where mystical legends come alive.
- Great Hall: Step into the grandeur of the largest banquet hall ever constructed, where echoes of feasts and celebrations linger.
- Unicorn Cafe: When hunger strikes, have a meal amidst the whimsical charm of unicorn statues scattered throughout.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a seeker of legends, or simply yearning for awe-inspiring views, Stirling Castle promises an unforgettable journey through time and Scottish heritage.
The Tickets cost around £17.50 to book online and £19.50 for walk-ins.
While the aforementioned destinations offer excellent value for budget-conscious travelers, there exists a second list of spots waiting to be discovered. As we delve deeper into our list, City Room Rentals will unveil even more captivating locations that both students and travelers should seriously consider exploring at least once. These gems promise unique experiences and unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and embark on an adventure.
