If you are taking a trip to Edinburgh before or after the wedding celebrations, we recommend taking a visit to Edinburgh Castle. The historic castle stands on Castle Rock and has been occupied by humans since at least the Iron Age, being a Royal Residence until 1663. Whilst it is not free entry into Edinburg Castle itself, walking up to and around the outside or simply viewing from almost anywhere in the city, certainly is!
One of our favourite walks in Edinburgh is up Arthur’s Seat. Whilst the walk itself is quite commonly known, a lot of people are not as aware that it’s actually an ancient volcano and the highest point in the city. The climb only takes about 20–30 minutes, but once you’re at the top the views over Edinburgh and out to the Forth Bridge are just amazing. We love it up there - even if it can get a bit windy!
The Royal Mile is without a doubt Edinburgh’s most famous street, running all the way from Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyrood House. It’s jampacked with bars, restaurants, shops, and cafés - definitely worth a wander. If you are ever here in August during the Edinburgh Festival, this is also where you’ll see loads of street performers and shows happening. One of the best parts about the Royal Mile is exploring the little “closes” (narrow alleyways) that run off the street. Advocate’s Close, in particular, gives you an amazing view. And if you’re a whisky fan, there are some brilliant underground tasting tours in the area too!
The North Coast 500, or NC500, is a stunning 516-mile (830 km) road trip that loops around the north of Scotland, starting and finishing at Inverness Castle. It’s an incredible way to see the Highlands - and it’s especially close to our hearts, as it takes you through Caithness, where Cameron’s parents, Michael and Dorothy, grew up. If you’re making the journey, we’d also say a visit to the Isle of Skye is an absolute must!
Loch Lomond, located in the heart of Scotland, is a stunning freshwater loch framed by rolling hills and charming villages. After spending much of his childhood here, this was the first place that Cameron took Georgia on their first visit to Scotland. Loch Lomond holds a special place in Cameron and the Scott family's hearts - rich with cherished memories.
The Kelpies are two massive horse-head sculptures in Falkirk that really are a sight to behold! You’ll spot them if you’re heading towards the famous Loch Lomond.
Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest national park, lies in the Scottish Highlands and features dramatic mountains, ancient forests, and rare wildlife like red squirrels and golden eagles. In the Summer of 2023, we visited the Cairngorms with Kobi to explore more of Scotland and the Aberdeen area where Cameron grew up! If you are planning a trip it is gorgeous natural landscape that is definitely worth a visit.
A recent favourite spot of ours that we stumbled across back in 2023, Prince Albert's Cairn, also known as the Balmoral Pyramid, is a large stone monument located on Balmoral Estate in Scotland. It is a small but stunning hike up the forestry to the top where the views over the cairngorms are incredible! The pyramid was built by Queen Victoria in 1862 to commemorate her beloved husband, Prince Albert, after his death. The cairn offers stunning views and a poignant sense of royal history.
The viaduct is part of the West Highland Line, a scenic railway route that connects Fort William to Mallaig. This is where the Jacobite Steam Train (also known as the Hogwarts Express) crosses in the Harry Potter movies on the way to Hogwarts.
Loch Ness is another of the large freshwater lochs in the Scottish Highlands. It takes its name from the River Ness, which flows from the northern end. Loch Ness is best known for claimed sightings of the cryptozoological Loch Ness Monster, also known affectionately as "Nessie".
The Isle of Skye, off Scotland’s northwest coast, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rugged coastline, and rich history. Famous sights include the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and Fairy Pools. With its mystical charm and natural beauty, Skye is a beloved destination for walkers, photographers, and a certain bride's father due to it being a top tier motorbiking route!
Can you really visit Scotland and not visit at least one Whisky Distillery?? The Glenmorangie Distillery Co., located in the Scottish Highlands, is renowned for crafting smooth, complex single malt whiskies using tall stills and traditional methods. Founded in 1843, it’s one of Scotland’s most iconic distilleries. A personal favourite of Camerons!
Option 2 - The Macallan is one of Scotland’s most famous single malt whisky distilleries, based in the beautiful Speyside region. They’ve recently opened an incredible new facility with a brilliant tour and tasting experience - definitely worth a visit. It also happens to be another one of Cameron’s favourites!
Option 3 - Glenkinchie Distillery, located in East Lothian just 15 miles from Edinburgh, is renowned as "The Edinburgh Malt." A great distillery and tasting experience for those who don't have the time to venture further afield than Edinburgh! And, you might have already guessed it - another one of Cameron's favourites!