Archive for 'Scotland'
City Sightseeing Edinburgh
Published on September 8th, 2009.
Climb Aboard an Open-top Bus for the Ultimate Tour
City Sightseeing bus tours are a great way for visitors to become familiar with a city as they are guided from one stop to the next. Live commentary brings life to a list of attractions that are filled with stories, history and culture that you would surely miss if you tried to see them all on foot. The real beauty of the City Sightseeing tour is that you can choose the stops you want to get off at and hop on the next bus that passes, often only 15 minutes apart.
If any of the following cities* are on your itinerary then let City Sightseeing show you around: Bath, Belfast, Blackpool, Brighton, Bristol, Cambridge, Cardiff, Chester, Colchester, Eastbourne, Edinburgh, Felixstowe, Glasgow, Great Yarmouth, Inverness, Ipswich, Liverpool, Llandudno, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Newport, Norwich, Oxford, Stirling, Stratford, Windsor or York.
This month our focus falls on City Sightseeing Edinburgh, capital of Scotland. 12 stops bring visitors through Edinburgh’s Old Town, to the elegant Georgian New Town, to the Royal Mile which joins Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood House and much more as seen on the following list of City Sightseeing Edinburgh’s stops and nearby attractions:
*With low season upon us, please note that some tours have seasonal operations. These tours have year round operations: Bath, Belfast, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, and York
Filled under Attractions, England, Great Britain, Ireland, Scotland, Wales. No Comments.
The Great British Heritage Pass
Published on September 8th, 2009.
Your Passport to UK Heritage Properties
The Great British Heritage Pass truly is the pass to see it all, where pass holders get free entrance to over 580 attractions throughout the UK. That’s right, 580! Imagine the crowds that these popular attractions face – Hampton Court Palace, Blenheim Palace, Roman Baths & Pump Room, Stonehenge, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, and many more – and now imagine skipping the queues and enjoying a completely cashless entry. (more…)
Filled under Attractions, England, Great Britain, Ireland, Scotland, Wales. 2 Comments.
Scotland’s Style Capital: Glasgow
Published on August 7th, 2009.
From Medieval to Art Nouveau
Enjoy the countryside and coastal views as you pull into Glasgow, which is situated just 42 miles from Edinburgh. Glasgow has been named Scotland’s style capital, a well-deserved title, once you discover its art deco brasseries, stylish shops, cultural centers, more than 30 art galleries and museums and an annual program of performing arts and festivals. Stroll along the River Clyde and take in your share of architecture and design. Shopping, fine dining and nightlife aside, don’t miss Glasgow’s School of Art, The Burrell Collection and Glasgow Cathedral. (more…)
Filled under Festival & Events, Scotland. No Comments.
The BritRail Central Scotland Pass
Published on August 6th, 2009.
Visit Edinburgh, Stirling and Glasgow
The BritRail Central Scotland Pass spans exciting cities including Edinburgh, Stirling and Glasgow. To inspire your trip across Scotland’s central belt, here’s a sneak peak of what these vibrant cities have to offer… (more…)
Filled under BritRail Products, Scotland. 1 Comment.
Merchant City Festival
Published on August 6th, 2009.
Glasgow September 24-27
Glasgow’s Merchant City Festival presents a diverse arts program featuring theater, music, comedy, film, visual arts, opera, dance, fashion and literature. Attracting tens of thousands to Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City, the Festival has opera singers in the courtyards and bars, thrilling street theatre from across Europe, top comedians and music from every genre in the bars and on the street. (more…)
Filled under Festival & Events, Scotland, Uncategorized. No Comments.
Spotlight on Aberdeen
Published on February 10th, 2009.
Inspire me!
With its sparkling granite buildings, Aberdeen is Scotland’s third largest city, home to the famous Granite Mile with over 800 shops, restaurants and bars. Where else can you follow a castle trail, whisky trail and coastal golf trail all in the same city?
Taking the train
Trains depart from London’s King’s Cross to Aberdeen, with some services stopping over in Edinburgh. To travel overnight and save the cost of a night’s hotel, we recommend taking the Caledonian Sleeper from London. www.BritRail.com
Travelers can also travel by rail from other cities in Scotland, including Glasgow (2¾ hours), Edinburgh (2½ hours), Dundee (1¼ hours) and Inverness (2¼ hours).
What’s on
SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL
May 1st – May 10th
Visitors will enjoy a mix of exciting events that have a whisky theme. Visit distilleries that are seldom open to the public, go to tasting classes and follow the Malt Whiskey Trail. For details on the upcoming festival visit http://www.spiritofspeyside.com/ To learn more about the distilleries on The Malt Whisky Trail, such as the famous Glenfiddich Distillery visit www.maltwhiskytrail.com
Attractions & Sites
COASTAL GOLF
Scotland is renowned for its golf courses, especially as golf can be played all year round. There are several golf courses to choose from, many featuring cliff top views and lush fairways. Popular coastal encounters of the North East include the following golf courses: Stonehaven Golf Course, Murcar Golf Course, Royal Aberdeen Golf Course, Cruden Bay Golf Course, and Moray New and Old Courses. http://golf.visitscotland.com
THE CASTLE TRAIL
Castle lovers can follow Scotland’s only castle trail where they can view thirteen unique castles. The Northeast is often referred to as Castle Country as it’s home to nearly one thousand castles and castle ruins. Each castle can tell its story, while visitors stroll through beautiful walled gardens and follow the clearly marked trail. With the National Trust for Scotland Pass visitors will benefit from entry to over 120 stately homes, castles, battlefields, monuments and gardens, including many on The Castle Trail www.BritRail.com
DUTHIE PARK – ROSE MOUNTAIN
Aberdeen is the 13 times winner of Britain in Bloom and is sometimes referred to as the City of Roses. The stunning mountain of roses showcases more than 120,000 roses and is open every day.
Featured Lodging
CITY WHARF APARTMENTS
Select from 22 serviced apartments, in three locations, right in Aberdeen city centre. Rates include breakfast, a welcome hamper with a bottle of wine, free Wi-Fi and much more. Visitors will also receive complimentary entrance to the Warehouse Health Club.
Address: 19-21 Regent Quay, 52 Regent Quay,
31-32 Springbank Terrace
Tel: +44 (0) 8450 94 24 24
www.citywharfapartments.co.uk
Featured Restaurant
THE ASHVALE
A multi award-winning resto, The Ashvale has a unique approach to a coastal favorite. Regularly filled with local families, this restaurant boasts authentic fish and chips.
Address: 42 Great Western Rd
Aberdeen, AB10 6PY, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 1224 575842
www.theashvale.co.uk
Filled under Attractions, Scotland. No Comments.
Spotlight on Edinburgh
Published on December 11th, 2008.
Inspire me!
Edinburgh is one of Britain’s most beautiful cities, featuring a stunning backdrop with rocky hills overlooking the sea. The city is home to 4,500 historic and architectural listed buildings which is the highest concentration in the world. Edinburgh is also a modern, dynamic city of art and culture with its museums, galleries, universities and festivals.
Taking the train
Edinburgh is reached by frequent direct train services from London, and other main English towns and cities. The journey from London to Edinburgh can be as little as 4½ hours.
What’s on
Homecoming Scotland 2009 is a year-long celebration with events to highlight Scotland’s great contributions to the world, inspired by Robert Burns ’ 250th anniversary weekend in January. Other topics of interest are: golf, whisky, great minds & innovations and Scotland’s rich ancestry and culture. You can view all the events which are taking place throughout this celebration, from Highland Games to Celtic Connections at: www.homecomingscotland2009.com
Edinburgh Hogmanay new years celebration Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is said to be the world’s greatest New Years’ celebration! It’s a four-day winter festival that takes place at the end of each year. Check out the torchlight procession, concert in the gardens and the headline event of the festival – Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party where 100,000 party-goers meet into the city centre to ring in the New Year. http://www.edinburghshogmanay.org/
Attractions & Sites
EDINBURGH PASS
The Edinburgh Pass is your ticket to experience all of Edinburgh’s delights. Get entrance into 27 of Edinburgh’s top attractions at a great value without having to wait in line for tickets. www.britrail.com
EDINBURGH CASTLE
Towering on an extinct volcano, this instantly recognizable fortress is a powerful national symbol and heritage site with the oldest part, St. Margaret’s Chapel, dating back to the 12th century. Explore inside its massive walls and marvel at the Great Hall, the National War Museum, the Stone of Destiny and the nation’s crown jewels. From here you can follow the Royal Mile, an ancient cobbled road, popular with tourists and lined with shops, pubs and restaurants, that leads to the Palace of Holyrood House.
Address: Castle Hill Edinburgh
Tel: 44 0131 225 9846
ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA
The Royal Yacht Britannia was the royal residence to The Queen and her family during their travels to many exotic and remote locations around the world from the yacht’s launch in 1953 until her decommissioning in 1997. Now permanently docked at Ocean Terminal, she is a floating monument and you can step aboard and tour its magnificent decks.
Address: Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh
Tel: +44 (0)131 555 5566
www.britrail.com
Featured Lodging
HOLYROOD APARTHOTEL
This aparthotel, features 41 apartments, in a great location adjacent to the Royal Mile. A great bonus is the well equipped kitchens and dining areas, which can accommodate a family or couple perfectly and save on restaurant bills. You’ll also find quiet, comfortable rooms with modern design, and other added features such as wireless Internet connection, LCD television with digital channels and hi -fi systems.
Address: 1 Nether Bakehouse Holyrood, Edinburgh
Tel: 0131 524 3200
Featured Restaurant
APARTMENT
Fantastic food and a cool, youthful atmosphere are featured at this buzzing bistro with generous portions, encouraging sharing tasty treats.
Address: 7-13 Barclay Pl, Central Edinburgh (nearby this months’ featured lodging)
Filled under Attractions, BritRail Products, Lodging & Restaurants, Scotland. No Comments.
Ask Shaun
Published on July 29th, 2008.
With summer finally in full swing, yours truly had to take time out of his busy tanning schedule to make sure you all received this month’s hot travel tip. In fact, I’m really excited to tell you about one of my all time favourite places in the UK, a city I’m sure you all will fall in love with. Just which fantastic city am I talking about you ask? Well, you’ll have to wait until next month’s newsletter to find out….Just kidding. The answer is the wonderful Scottish city of Stirling!
Stirling is said to be ‘the best small city in Scotland’, a claim this globe-trotter can’t argue with. The city has a great energy, and its blend of cutting edge style with old world charm, makes it one of the most underrated destinations in the UK. The city also boasts a ton of activities, ensuring that there is something to do for every kind of traveler.
First and foremost, no trip to Stirling would be complete without a small trek out to the majestic William Wallace Monument. This incredible tower will keep you captivated from the second you see it. You’ll learn all about the great William ‘Braveheart’ Wallace (and get to see his real life sword) as well as a number of other brave Scots in the Hall of Heroes. For visitors not afraid of a few steps, I urge you to climb to the top and experience an unparalleled view of Scotland that stretches from Ben Lomond to Edinburgh!
Opening Times
Open all year round
Daily Jan-Feb, Nov-Dec 10.30-16.00: Mar-May, Oct 10.00-17.00
June 10.00- 18.00: July-Aug 09:30-18.00: Sept 09:30-17.00
Address
Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Causewayhead, Stirling. FK9 5LF
Tel: +44(0)1786 472140
www.nationalwallacemonument.com
After visiting Braveheart’s monument, it’s time to head over to King’s Park to see a site attributed to another famous hero. Maybe you’ve heard of him… King Arthur! Originally set up around 1630 as a royal garden, this lovely green space lays claim to a mysterious circular mound, dubbed the King’s Knot (which is supposedly older than the garden itself). It’s said that King Arthur held his court in Stirling, and that the King’s Knot may have been, at one time, none other than the legendary Round Table! King’s Park is open all year round and is free to enter.
In addition to all the great cultural and historic attractions, Stirling is renowned for being a prime shopping destination. It’s filled with enough farmer’s markets, shopping centers, specialty stores and retail arcades to please even the most zealous of shoppers!
For those looking for some of the best specialty art, fashion and food, you may want to head over to Bridge of Allan Street, while those interested in a more traditional ‘High Street’ experience should head over to Port Street. If you’re a marathon shopper, then maybe the 100 stores of the Thistles Shopping Center are a good place to start. Finally, those of Celtic origin may want to try Baker or Friars Street in hopes of finding their family tartan and other authentic Scottish items.
Well ladies and gents, with that, we’ve come to the end of another edition of the BritRail newsletter. We’ll see you all again next month, but until then, enjoy the summer! And remember, for all questions and queries concerning anything British, you can email me at AskShaun@BritRail.com. Take care everyone!
Filled under Attractions, Scotland. No Comments.
Sightseeing in Scotland
Published on July 11th, 2008.
Need some help getting into Scotland’s coolest attractions? Well don’t fret, because BritRail has just what is needed to spice up any Scottish holiday.
Get the National Trust for Scotland Discovery Pass! This amazing sightseeing card provides travelers with free entrance into over 120 stately homes, castles, battlefields, monuments, gardens, wild-life habitats as well as hundreds of special events in Scotland! Available in Adult and Family (2 adults and up to 4 children under 16) rates.
To book a National Trust for Scotland Discovery Pass or simply obtain more information please visit www.BritRail.com
Filled under Attractions, BritRail Products, Scotland. No Comments.
The Easiest Way to Travel in Scotland
Published on July 3rd, 2008.
BritRail has everything you need to make your Scottish vacation hassle free. Why stress about transportation, when you can simply pick up any of our fantastic Scottish rail passes, giving you the freedom to hop on and off trains at your leisure. All you need to do is find out which pass is right for you!
BritRail Scottish Freedom Pass
Best Used For: Travelers looking to explore the whole of Scotland are recommended to purchase the BritRail Scottish Freedom Pass. Not only does it provide flexible days of travel throughout all of Scotland, it also includes ferry trips to various islands and bus excursions to explore the most remote parts of the land.
BritRail Central Scotland Pass
Best Used For: Those who are spending their time in the hub cities of Scotland’s central belt like Edinburgh, Glasgow and Stirling. This flexible pass also provides unlimited travel on the Glasgow Underground!
BritRail Pass
Best Used For: Individuals who are planning to explore the rest of the UK in addition to Scotland. With either the BritRail Flexi or Consecutive pass, travelers gain access to the rail lines of England, Scotland and Wales. That’s not all. The BritRail pass also provides free travel on the Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted Express trains, the quickest way from London’s airports to central London.
To book a BritRail pass or simply obtain more information please visit www.BritRail.com
Filled under BritRail Products, Scotland. No Comments.
