Want a real flavour of Scotland? Coastlines and castles, beaches and breweries, cathedrals and cashmere, whisky and walks; all this lies ahead of you (and much more) as you spend seven days exploring the east coast of Scotland. Taking in a range of cities and towns, stretching from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, you can explore St Andrews, Dundee, Pitlochry and more. You'll also explore miles of countryside, weave through rural communities and even journey through one of our National Parks! Are you ready to tour the north east coast of Scotland?
- Start / Finish
- Edinburgh - City Centre / Edinburgh
Days
7
Distance
295Miles
472km
Transport
Car
Main theme
Sightseeing
- Highlights
- Edinburgh's attractions
- Fishing village of East neuk
- St Andrews
- RRS Discovery
- Arbroath Abbey
- Dunnottar Castle
- Strathisla Distillery
- The Hermitage
- Areas covered
- East
Day 1Take in the highlights of Scotland's capital
- Transport:
- Bus
- Walking
Edinburgh, Scotland's historic capital city, is bound to leave an impression on you. You could easily spend weeks discovering its many fantasticattractions,hidden gemsand vibrant cultural scene. Today's stops will give you a real feel for this beautiful city's unique character, fascinating past and unbridled charm.
1
Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh - City Centre
Towering over the city, you won't be able to miss Edinburgh Castle. As well as offering spectacular views of the skyline, it's home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. On your visit, uncover Scotland's military history in the National War Museum and take in the haunting National War Memorial. Once you've explored the castle, wander down theRoyal Mileto take in this famous thoroughfare - it's lined with an eclectic range of shops, pubs, eateries and historic closes, and you can also findSt Giles' Cathedralin the middle and thePalace of Holyroodhouseat the bottom of the street.
Plan your trip to Edinburgh CastleCastle Hill,Edinburgh - City Centre,EH1 2NGKey facilities
- On Public Transport Route
- Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
- Level Access
- Cafe or Restaurant
2
National Museum of Scotland Edinburgh - City Centre
Not only is the National Museum of Scotland free to visit and full of thousands of incredible objects, the building is an architectural masterpiece that should not be missed by fans of design. Take in the vast airy space of the Grand Gallery before moving into the galleries on art, design and science, which covers everything fromDolly the Sheep, a marvel of genetics, to the couture fashions of the late Vivienne Westwood, and Alexander McQueen. There are also fantastic temporary exhibitions to see. It's a real treasure trove!
Discover the National Museum of ScotlandChambers Street,Edinburgh - City Centre,EH1 1JFKey facilities
- On Public Transport Route
- Hearing Loop
- Level Access
- Accessible toilets
- WiFi
- Cafe or Restaurant
3
Calton Hill and the National Monument Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city best explored on foot, and for budding photographers or those keen to admire the stunning cityscape, it's time to head to Calton Hill to enjoy great views in the lingering light of the late afternoon. You'll see the National Monument, and art lovers can also pop into the Collective Gallery, one of the city's manyart galleries. Afterwards, if you are ready for dinner, you could catch the tram to theLeitharea of the city. It's one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the UK and boasts three Michelin-starrestaurants. Alternatively, wander along Princes Street or George Street to the city'sWest End.
Walk up Calton Hill32 Greenside Road,Edinburgh,EH1 3AJ4
Real Mary King's Close Edinburgh - City Centre
If you're keen to pack in one more attraction in the evening and want to find out more about the history of Edinburgh'sOld Town, then take a tour of the Real Mary King's Close. Step into the past as you head below the Royal Mile to discover a warren of old streets and living and working quarters from the 17th century which have been forgotten for hundreds of years. As well as fascinating and detailed accounts of the people who occupied the close, there are also a few chilling tales to unearth - a must for any history lover or fans of the macabre! Alternatively, take asupernatural-themed walking tourto uncover more of Edinburgh's spooky side.
Experience the Real Mary King's CloseHigh Street,2 Warriston's Close,Edinburgh - City Centre,EH1 1PGKey facilities
- Hearing Loop
- Accessible toilets
- Cafe or Restaurant
Nearby places to eat Nearby places to stay
Day 2Explore Fife & St Andrews
- Transport:
- Car
- Walking
Leave Edinburgh and venture out into theKingdom of Fife, taking the Queensferry Crossing. Look out for the remarkable structure of theForth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Forth Road Bridge. Follow the brown signs for theFife Coastal Routeto take in the sparkling coastline and the picturesque villages of theEast Neuk.
5
The villages of the East Neuk of Fife Pittenweem
The East Neuk refers to a scattering of quaint fishing villages in the north east corner of Fife. With curious winding streets, ancient stone harbours, and original white-washed fisherman's cottages, they make the perfect place to stop, breathe in the sea air, and perhaps grab a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. In Pittenweem, wander to the pier to see colourful bobbing boats, or walk up Cove Wynd to find the tiny St Fillan's Cave, said to have been used as a chapel by the saint in the eighth century. Head toAnstrutherto try famous fish and chips, before visiting the town'sScottish Fisheries Museum. It's here that you can hop on board The Reaper, a Fife sailing herring drifter featured in the TV seriesOutlander(access available by prior arrangement).
Explore the East NeukPittenweem6
St Andrews West Sands and Town Centre St Andrews
Next, head to beautiful St Andrews, a historic university town. Work up an appetite before lunch with a bracing stroll along the town's iconic West Sands - a long, flat beach famously featured inChariots of Fire(1981). West Sands lines the town's world-famous golf courses and lying not far from the south end of the beach is the famous Swilcan Bridge on theOld Course. Wander through the streets of the town and you'll find a range of boutique shops, cosy pubs, cafés and restaurants, as well as the ancient university campus,St Andrews CathedralandSt Andrews Castle.
Visit St AndrewsSt Andrews7
Eden Mill Distillery & Brewery Guardbridge
If you fancy trying a local tipple, then book a late afternoon tour at Eden Mill Distillery & Brewery, just a10 minute drive from St Andrews' town centre. Producing craft beer, small-batch gin and Scotch whisky, there's bound to be the perfect tour to match your palate. Perhaps you'll fall head over heels for the Love Gin, or enjoy a fusion of flavours as you sample the whisky barrel beer (but remember: it's against the law to drink and drive). From Eden Mill, head north and take the Tay Bridge across the waters of the silveryRiver Tayto Dundee.
Main Street,Guardbridge,Guardbridge,KY16 0USNearby places to eat Nearby places to stay
Day 3Make Discoveries in Dundee
Day 4Head north to Aberdeen
Day 5Adventure from Aberdeen to Elgin
Day 6Weave through Royal Deeside to Highland Perthshire
Day 7Journey from Pitlochry to Edinburgh
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