Scotland Peter Irvine’s the best
Unmissable attractions
Summer is here for a few more weeks, so still time to beat the rush to these tourist hotspots
Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies
The splendid wheel and deliberately dramatic massive boat-lift at the convergence of the Union and Forth & Clyde canals – the world’s first coast-to-coast ship canal (to wander or plooter along). The 35-metre lift is impressive to watch and great to go on. Great network of paths to walk and cycle from here and it links to The Helix and The Kelpies, dramatically rearing from the canal basin beside the M9.
The V&A Dundee
Opened amid huge anticipation, excitement and then enthusiastic acclaim in 2018. Kengo Kuma’s consummate design makes the most of its riverbank location by the steamship RRS Discovery (from 1901). Through a cathedralsized atrium, up a sweeping staircase to the galleries: one for changing exhibitions via London’s V&A, one an exploration of Scottish
design through time, one for communitybased work.
Loch Ness
Most visits start from Inverness at the north end via the Caledonian Canal. Fort Augustus is at the other end. Loch Ness is part of the still-navigable Caledonian Canal linking to the west coast at Fort William. Small boats line the shores at certain points. The popular way to see the loch is on a cruise from Inverness. Most tourist traffic uses the main A82 north bank road converging on Drumnadrochit, where the Loch Ness Monster industry gobbles up your money.
Edinburgh Castle
Go to Princes Street and look up! St Margaret’s Chapel is simple and beautiful; the rolling history lesson that leads up to the display of Scotland’s crown jewels is fascinating; the Stone of Destiny is a big deal to the Scots (though others may not see why). And, ultimately, the Scottish National War Memorial is one of the most genuinely affecting places in the country – a simple, dignified testament to shared pain and loss.
Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99