Scotland the best
History and heritage
Often bloody, always interesting, Scotland’s story is worth finding out about at these fab places
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Here in douce wee Alloway, the restored cottage where Burns was born and the brilliant contemporary museum/gallery/ coffee shop, an appropriate paean to his memory, an evocation of his times and works and both interesting and fun places to visit. Cottage is a row of rooms with set pieces and slightly unnerving voiceovers. The museum has state-of-the-art and technology exhibits exploring not just the well-kent and comic aspects (Tam o’ Shanter, Auld Lang Syne, the Kilmarnock Edition) but the wider implications of his national significance and a modern translation of his influence. Serene gardens, red roses.
The Secret Bunker
The nuclear bunker and regional seat of government in the event of nuclear war: a twilight labyrinth beneath a hill near Crail in rural Fife so vast, well documented and complete, it’s both fascinating and chilling. Few museums are as authentic or as resonant, even down to the claustrophobic canteen. Makes you wonder what 300 people would have made of it, incarcerated there, what the Cold War was all about and what secrets the MoD is for the wars yet to come.
Shetland Museum & Archives
Impressive, landmark, purpose-built contemporary space developed from what remained of the Lerwick waterfront. Sixtythousand images bringing the story of these fascinating islands to life. Also the Up-Helly-Aa story!
Cromarty Courthouse Museum
Housed in an 18th Century courthouse, this museum uses moving, talking models to bring to life a courtroom scene and famous Cromarty figures to paint the varied history of this special town Hugh Miller’s Birthplace is next door. Born in 1802 and best known as the father of geology, he was remarkable in many ways and this tells his singular story.
Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99