Posted by Maris on 18th Sep 2023
Adorable Small Towns Worth To Visit In Scotland
Most visitors to Scotland are familiar with the major cities, the most popular of which is Edinburgh, as well as some of the less populated areas of beauty, such as Loch Ness and the islands of Shetland and Skye, but what you may not realize is that Scotland is full of small pretty coastal villages and the cutest small towns. Others are fairly traditional and haven’t changed much in decades, while others haven’t changed in over a century, and some are “new towns,” which were purposely constructed to handle the overflow of inhabitants from cities. Many visitors will miss these small settlements because they are unaware of their existence and the treasures that they hold. Here are seven wonderful small places to visit in Scotland to help you plan your next trip.
Arbroath
The historic seaside town of Arbroath gave birth to the Declaration of Arbroath. This was a letter sent to Pope John Paul II by Scottish nobility declaring their right to use firearms in self-defense and asserting their independence from the English. This letter began its journey right here in town, at Arbroath Abbey. Arbroath is also well-known for its Arbroath smokie. As you walk through the medieval lanes alongside modest fishing cottages, you can get a whiff of smoked fish, and you might see puffs of smoke billowing from the smokehouses in this authentic Scottish village. The Arbroath smokie is a local delicacy that you should try if you go.
Ballantrae
Ballantrae is a lovely South Ayrshire town located on Ballantrae Bay. The rocky shoreline here is suitable for fishing and other water activities. There are also various rivers and lochs in the vicinity, making it an ideal place to relax if you appreciate the water. There is a core village here, but there are also clusters of B&Bs and beach hotels, raising whether this is a tourist town. There are several lovely climbs along the seashore, and Ardstinchar Castle dominates the area from every perspective. The majority of visitors, on the other hand, come for the views of the bay, the untamed landscape, and the ocean.
Spend the night in Glenapp’s historic Scottish castle and experience life as a lord. Glenapp Castle, which was built as part of a private estate in 1870, is now a 21-room, five-star hotel. Aside from its gorgeous exterior, the castle organizes various events and courses, including perfume-making, foraging, archery, and beekeeping.
Stornoway
Stornoway is the main town on the Outer Hebridean island of Lewis. Stornoway, formerly a Viking village, is now a bustling port town that has managed to keep its fishing roots. There is a lot of history here, and if you want to make sure you don’t miss anything, Where The Wild Is offers a tour that includes an itinerary and accommodation in the Hebridean Huts, two eco-glamping huts with sea views. You will travel autonomously, even though an itinerary has been set for you. The first step is to collect your rental car, allowing you to explore at your leisure. Don’t forget to visit the Callanish standing stones and dine at the Blue Lobster.
Blantyre
Blantyre is a culturally significant town located eight miles south of Glasgow. Although the town is most known as the birthplace of explorer David Livingstone, it also had a semi-industrial past, with coal mines and cotton mills. Today, the town’s modest beauty is entwined with its industrial legacy, as are the original weavers’ cottages and millworkers’ tenement constructions that still stand. Blantyre is proud of its legacy, which can be found throughout the city. The ruins of Blantyre Priory face Boswell Castle, which is only a half-mile away from town.
Inveraray
Inveraray, on the banks of Loch Fyne, was established as a town in 1745 and has remained mostly unchanged since then. The loch’s shoreline resembles little coves and shelving beaches, giving the impression of being near the sea. As in other Scottish towns, there is a castle here, although the Duke of Argyll still occupies it. Even though it is the duke’s house, the castle, or at least the majority of it, is open to the public. This is a true fantasy castle, complete with Rapunzel spires and military towers. The town’s ancient jail and courthouse have been converted into a museum portraying the medieval justice system and terrible punishments. Inveraray is a charming small town with a rich history and beautiful surroundings.
Newton Stewart
Newton Stewart, a medieval market town with an old stone bridge over the River Cree, was named for William Stewart, the town’s founder. The town, which is located near to the Galloway Forest Park, serves as a base for hill walkers and visitors who come to enjoy the woodland. With binoculars, you may see red and foe deer as well as wild hill goats struggling up the rough hills. Visitors rush to town for the abundant salmon fishing in the river and the cycling paths that take you through some of the country’s most magnificent scenery.
Campbeltown
This picturesque tiny hamlet surrounded by majestic hills was once known as the “whisky capital of the world.” It was a bold statement, but with 34 distilleries in one little town, it was one worth making. Only three of those distilleries remain today, and the town has grown much quieter. Visitors flock to the three remaining distilleries, and if you appreciate whisky, this is an excellent place to stay. Horseback riding is also popular in the area, with several routes available surrounding town. Campbeltown is situated on the Kintyre peninsula, and the surrounding land folds to form an ocean entry. As a result, the harbor is peaceful and serene, making it a pleasant place to stroll.