Tag: Historic Scotland

Banff, Bow Fiddle Rock & Outlander Sites: Road to Inverness (Day 13)

Michelle July 21, 2026July 27, 2026 Banff Scotland, Bow Fiddle Rock, Clava Cairns, Coastal Drive Scotland, Culloden Battlefield, Culloden Viaduct, Elgin Cathedral, Historic Scotland, Inverness Day Trip, Moray Coast, National Trust for Scotland, Northeast Scotland, Outlander Scotland, Scotland Explorer Pass, Scotland Road Trip, Scottish Highlands, UK Road Trip Itinerary Leave a Comment 215 Views

Introduction

Day 13 was another beautiful road trip day along Scotland’s northeast coast as we made our way toward Inverness. We stayed in a nice little flat in Banff the night before, right by the North Sea, which gave us a peaceful start to the day.

Day 13: Coastal Drives & Outlander Connections

Jerry and I took a quick morning stroll to the beach while Dave and Karen got ready to hit the road. The weather was unusually warm at 75 degrees — we felt very lucky!

Our first stop was Bow Fiddle Rock, a striking natural sea arch. The warm sunshine and waves made it a highlight of the morning. From there we continued to Elgin Cathedral, another impressive ruined cathedral with interesting artifacts and architecture. It has more surviving medieval memorials and effigies than any other Scottish cathedral.

For all the fans of the show Outlander, we made sure to stop at Clava Cairns. This site, with its standing stones surrounded by tall trees and farmland, was captivating and atmospheric — it’s widely believed to have inspired Diana Gabaldon’s Craigh na Dun. The nearby Culloden Viaduct (pictured with yellow flowers foreground) made the whole area even more scenic.

We also made a quick stop at Culloden Battlefield. While it was quite commercialized and busy with tourists (a bit of a contrast to the quieter sites), it was still a thought-provoking place to visit.

We finally arrived at our cottage just south of Inverness in the late afternoon. After a long day we made lettuce-wrapped tacos for dinner, then headed into Inverness for a quick look around and to catch the sunset.

Helpful Tips for This Route

• Bow Fiddle Rock is worth the stop — especially on a sunny day.

• Clava Cairns is free and relatively quiet compared to other popular sites.

• Culloden Battlefield can get crowded, so early or late in the day is better if possible. **Note that it is managed by the National Trust for Scotland (NTS), so an NTS membership gives you free entry here (while the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass covers most of the other sites on this day).

• The Historic Scotland Explorer Pass is very useful for historic site entries.

Fun Facts

• Bow Fiddle Rock: This dramatic sea arch gets its name because it perfectly resembles the tip of a violin or fiddle bow. Formed by the relentless force of the North Sea waves, it stands about 50 feet tall and is a favorite for photographers on the Moray Coast.

• Elgin Cathedral (known as the “Lantern of the North”): Founded in 1224, this was once one of Scotland’s most magnificent cathedrals. It features a well-preserved octagonal chapter house and intricate medieval carvings.

• Clava Cairns: These Bronze Age burial cairns are around 4,000 years old, with passage graves aligned to the winter solstice. The standing stones and woodland setting inspired the time-travel site in Outlander.

• Culloden Viaduct: The longest masonry railway viaduct in Scotland (about 1,800 feet long with 29 arches), opened in 1898 and still in use today — a stunning landmark near Clava Cairns.

• Culloden Battlefield: Site of the last pitched battle fought on British soil in 1746. The Jacobite defeat here in under an hour changed the course of Highland history.

• Banff: A historic royal burgh with roots in the 12th century, once a busy North Sea trading port famous for exporting salmon to Europe.

Final Thoughts from Day 13

This day had a great mix of natural beauty, historic ruins, and Outlander nostalgia. Bow Fiddle Rock and Clava Cairns were especially memorable. We were starting to feel the pull of the Highlands and were excited to explore more around Inverness in the coming days.

Next Up:

A more relaxed day around Loch Ness, including Urquhart Castle and the Touchstone Maze, followed by our big adventure on the Isle of Skye. NEXT…

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Northeast Scotland Coast Drive: Arbroath Abbey, Dunnottar Castle & Stone Circles (Day 12)

Michelle July 14, 2026July 23, 2026 Aberdeenshire, Arbroath Abbey, Banff Scotland, Coastal Scotland Drive, Dunnottar Castle, Historic Scotland, Northeast Scotland, Scotland Itinerary, Scotland Road Trip, Scottish Castles, Stone Circles Scotland, UK Road Trip Leave a Comment 179 Views

Introduction

On Day 12 we left Edinburgh and began our drive north and west toward Inverness. This was one of our favorite road trip days in Scotland, filled with dramatic coastal views and historic sites.

Day 12: Coastal Scotland Adventure

We started the day heading up the eastern coast. Our first stop was Arbroath Abbey, a towering medieval ruin. The red sandstone walls standing against the sky were quite striking.

Next, we visited Dunnottar Castle — hands down one of the most dramatic locations of the entire trip. The castle sits 160 feet up on cliffs overlooking the North Sea with crystal-clear water below. The views were breathtaking, and it’s easy to see why it has been used in so many films and photos. We spent a long time walking around and soaking in the scenery.

After a full morning of exploring, we stopped for an early dinner at The Shepherds Rest, enjoying burgers and fish & chips. We then made our way to East Aquhorthies Stone Circle. We were the only people there, which made it feel extra magical. The peaceful setting in the open countryside was a lovely contrast to some of the busier sites.

Helpful Tips for the Northeast Coast Drive

• Dunnottar Castle is a must-visit — arrive with plenty of time to explore and take photos, as the steep path and cliffs require good footwear and caution, especially with wind or rain.

• Check the weather before heading out, as coastal winds can be strong and change quickly.

• The English Heritage Pass does not cover Scottish sites, so you’ll need the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass or pay individual entry fees (Dunnottar and Arbroath have reasonable separate tickets).

• Bring layers — it can be quite windy along the coast, even on sunny days.

• For stone circles like East Aquhorthies, wear sturdy shoes for uneven grassy terrain and consider a small donation if there’s an honesty box for road maintenance.

• Plan your fuel and snacks, as services can be sparse between sites; pack water and binoculars for wildlife spotting along the cliffs.

Fun Facts

Banff (our stop for the night): This historic royal burgh on the northern coast dates back to at least the 12th century and was a busy trading port exporting salmon to Europe. Its name likely ties to Gaelic roots linked to a “holy woman,” reflected in the town’s coat of arms featuring the Virgin Mary. The area has deep maritime history, including one of the UK’s largest surviving ice houses used for salmon storage.

Final Thoughts

This day reminded us why Scotland’s northeast coast is so special. The combination of dramatic clifftop castles and quiet, ancient stone circles created a perfect balance. We arrived at our little flat in Banff (on the northern coast) tired but very happy with the day. It was one of those perfect road-trip days where history, scenery, and solitude all came together beautifully.

Next Up:

Our final day on the northeast coast before arriving in Inverness, including Bow Fiddle Rock, Elgin Cathedral, Clava Cairns, and Culloden Battlefield. NEXT…

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First Full Day in Edinburgh: Royal Mile, Castle & Scottish Impressions (Day 10)

Michelle June 29, 2026August 20, 2026 Arthur's Seat, Calton Hill, Dog Cemetery Edinburgh, Dugald Stewart Monument, Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, Historic Scotland, Hop on Hop off Bus, Landmark, Nelson Monument, Queen Mary's Bath House, Royal Mile, Scotland Itinerary, Scotland Travel, Scott Monument, Scottish National Monument, Travel Diary, UK Road Trip, Wine Leave a Comment 195 Views

We woke up on Day 10 to a view of Arthur’s Seat from our apartment window. After days of driving and exploring remote ruins, it felt wonderfully refreshing to be based in a vibrant city again. Scotland was already winning us over.

We began the morning with a gentle uphill walk along the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle for our 9:30am tour. Along the way, we passed the charming little 16th-century Queen Mary’s Bathhouse, a picturesque turreted building just outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The castle itself felt more like a living museum than the ancient ruins we’d seen earlier in the trip, but its position high above the city delivered spectacular views. The cannon gunports offered perfect “framed” shots of the rooftops and spires below, and we were charmed by the historic Dog Cemetery—dating back to 1837—with its tiny headstones honoring soldiers’ and officers’ loyal dogs (and a few other pets).

After leaving the castle, we wandered down Cockburn Street and enjoyed a relaxed lunch of wine and charcuterie at a cozy spot. Feeling revived, we made one of the best decisions of the trip: hopping on a double-decker hop-on hop-off bus tour. It gave us an excellent overview of the city’s layout and helped us decide where to spend more time. After walking more than six miles already, the ride was a very welcome rest for our feet.

The bus route took us past several standout landmarks, including the towering Scott Monument and Calton Hill. We hopped off to explore the hill’s impressive monuments: the Nelson Monument, the Dugald Stewart Monument, and the unfinished Scottish National Monument.

We returned to our apartment in the late afternoon and cooked a simple but satisfying dinner—bunless burgers topped with cheddar, bacon, and eggs. Having a kitchen during this trip has been an absolute blessing after long days of sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Edinburgh

• Book Edinburgh Castle tickets in advance, especially for morning slots—they sell out quickly. (This destination is included with the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass.)

• Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour on your first day. It’s one of the smartest ways to get oriented.

• The Royal Mile has some steep sections—comfortable walking shoes are essential.

• Staying somewhere with a kitchen helps you balance restaurant meals, save money, and recharge after busy days.

Fun Facts

• Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano that last erupted around 350 million years ago. At 251 meters (823 feet) tall, it offers some of the best views over Edinburgh. In 1836, boys discovered 17 mysterious miniature coffins containing tiny wooden figures in a cave on its slopes—their purpose is still unknown.

• The Royal Mile is actually 1.07 miles long and follows the ridge of an ancient volcano, which explains its steep sections.

• Queen Mary’s Bath House (16th century) is more likely a garden pavilion or summer house than an actual bathhouse. The story of Mary, Queen of Scots bathing in wine or goat’s milk here is a charming legend with no historical proof.

• Edinburgh Castle has been besieged at least 26 times, making it one of the most attacked places in Britain. It sits atop an extinct volcano (Castle Rock). The cannon batteries and gunports in this area are part of the Argyle Battery and Half Moon Battery. This is also home to the famous One O’Clock Gun, which has been fired daily (except Sundays) at 1:00 pm since 1861 to help ships in the Firth of Forth set their clocks.

• The Dog Cemetery dates to the 1840s and holds about 20 small headstones for officers’ pets and regimental mascots. The first burial was Fido in 1847; the dogs often accompanied soldiers on global campaigns. It’s viewable only from above to protect the site.

• The Scott Monument is a 61-meter (200 ft) Gothic tower dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, the author of Ivanhoe and many other classics. It’s the second-largest monument to a writer in the world and features 68 statues of characters from his novels. Scott is depicted at the base with his beloved deerhound, Maida.

• Calton Hill is another volcanic outcrop and part of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its collection of monuments gives it a dramatic, almost Athenian feel—earning the city its nickname “Athens of the North.”

• The Nelson Monument looks like an upturned telescope and honors Admiral Lord Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar (1805). It once had a time ball that dropped at 1 pm to help ships synchronize clocks.

• The Dugald Stewart Monument is an elegant circular temple honoring the Scottish Enlightenment philosopher. Its design by William Henry Playfair perfectly frames the city views and is one of the most photographed spots on the hill.

• The Scottish National Monument was meant to be a full replica of the Parthenon in Athens to honor Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars. Funds ran out, leaving the dramatic unfinished “ruin” you see today—often called “Scotland’s Disgrace” or “Edinburgh’s Folly.

Final Thoughts from Our First Day in Scotland

Edinburgh felt alive, historic, and full of character. The blend of medieval streets, grand architecture, and energetic city buzz made us fall in love with Scotland almost instantly. We couldn’t wait to explore more of the capital and beyond in the coming days.

Next Up:

Day trips from Edinburgh including The Kelpies (the giant horse sculptures), the Falkirk Wheel, and the Wallace Monument — plus more evening exploring in the city. NEXT…

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