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Daily Record
10-06-2025
- Daily Record
The beautiful Scottish island that was named 'top holiday destination'
The isle has been described as "Scotland in miniature". Many of Scotland's islands are popular holiday destinations. Locations such as the Isle of Skye, the Isle of Mull, and Lewis and Harris have all long delighted holidaymakers across the UK and beyond. One island was recently named among the top summer holiday destinations in Scotland. It was praised for its historic attractions and picturesque beauty spots. As previously reported by the Daily Record, experts at Cottages and Castles put together a list of 10 destinations across Scotland that are the best for a getaway over the summer months. Among the locations featured was the Isle of Arran. Arran is an island located off Scotland's west coast, and is the biggest in the Firth of Clyde. It has a population of approximately 4,600 people, with its main settlement being the village of Brodick. The island was described by the experts as "Scotland in Miniature", and praised for its diverse vistas. Beauty spots such as Goat Fell and Brodick Castle earned particular praise. Goat Fell is the tallest peak on Arran, standing around 870 metres in height. From the top, it offers panoramic views out over the island and towards the sea. Meanwhile, Brodick Castle is situated near Brodick. Once a seat of the Dukes of Hamilton, the castle and its picturesque grounds are today open to the public. Other top walking and hiking destinations on Arran include the Machrie Moor Standing Stones and Glen Rosa. The Machrie Moor Standing Stones are believed to date back as far as 3500 BC, while Glen Rosa is a popular spot for wild for wild swimming. Whisky lovers will also get a lot out of a trip to the Lochranza Distillery, which is found on the north of the island. Founded in 1995, it offers a variety of tours and guided tastings led by knowledgable guides. Elsewhere, being the island's village, Brodick offers both amenities and attractions. It is also Arran's primary commercial centre and ferry port. Dotted around Brodick are a number of cafés, restaurants, and bars. These include the Little Rock Cafe and Wee Deli, fine dining restaurant La Truffe Noire, and the Ormidale Hotel—the latter of which is home to a bustling pub. Another settlement on Arran is Lamlash, situated a few miles south of Brodick. Like Brodick, it is home to popular food and drink venues such as the Drift Inn and the Pierhead Tavern. The Cottages and Castles website states: "The Isle of Arran, known as 'Scotland in Miniature', is a stunning destination that captures Scotland's diverse landscapes on one small island. From rugged mountains and rolling hills to sandy beaches and historic ruins, Arran has it all. "Highlights include Brodick Castle, the rewarding Goat Fell climb (the island's highest peak), and spotting seals along its shores. Visitors love its welcoming villages like Brodick and Lamlash, with cosy cafés, artisan shops, and markets. "Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy cycling, golfing, and hiking, while those seeking relaxation can explore its heritage and serene natural beauty. Whether for a day trip or a longer stay, Arran promises an unforgettable experience." Visit Arran website. Meanwhile the full list of the top holiday destinations around Scotland can be found on Cottages and Castles.
Daily Record
05-06-2025
- Daily Record
Scotland's top 10 summer holiday destinations as 'vibrant city' tops list
Cities, towns, and islands are all featured on the roundup. The top 10 summer holiday destinations in Scotland have been named and a "vibrant" city topped the list at number one. As summer kicks off, people across the country and beyond will be looking to book a getaway. While many will be jetting off abroad, Scotland has no shortage of incredible cities, towns, and villages to explore. On Wednesday, June 4, Cottages and Castles shared a list of the top 10 holiday destinations in Scotland after surveying more than 12,000 people across the UK. Placing at number one on the list is Edinburgh. The Scottish capital was praised for its "architectural grandeur" and "friendly, creative spirit". The experts also praised the city for its picturesque skyline and Arthur's Seat beauty spot. The main highlight of Edinburgh over the summer season is the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The world's largest art festival, it brings people from across the world for a huge programme of shows spanning comedy, music, dance, and much more. Cottages and Cottages wrote: "Crowned Scotland's Capital of Joy, Edinburgh blends architectural grandeur with a friendly, creative spirit. Survey respondents were swept away by the city's festival buzz, cobbled streets, dramatic skyline, and warm local welcomes. "Whether you're hiking up Arthur's Seat for breathtaking views, experiencing the magic of Christmas in Scotland, or exploring the best places to eat in Edinburgh, this city is your perfect escape for soul and spectacle." Elsewhere, coming in second place on Cottages and Castles' roundup of the top holiday destinations in Scotland is Oban. The coastal town in Argyll and Bute was described as the "perfect blend of relaxed charm and seaside adventure". Oban was previously named the Daily Record's Town of the Week. We praised its various acclaimed seafood restaurants, as well as the historic Oban Distillery. In third place on the experts' list of the country's best holiday spots is St Andrews. The Fife town earned praise for its "history and old-world elegance". St Andrews is best known as the 'home of golf', and is believed to be where the sport was invented in the 15th century. The Old Course is considered among the most important golf courses in the world, and remains open to everybody. Rounding out the top five on Cottages and Castles' list are St Andrews and the Isle of Skye. The former was named the "most magical Scottish island", while the Isle of Arran was noted for attractions such as Brodick Castle and Goat Fell. Elsewhere, other destinations included on the roundup are Aviemore, Perth, and Ullapool. Completing the top 10 are Inverness and Glencoe. See below for the full list of the top 10 holiday destinations in Scotland. More information can be found on the Cottages and Castles website. Top 10 holiday destinations in Scotland Edinburgh Oban St Andrews Isle of Skye Isle of Arran Aviemore Perth Ullapool Inverness Glencoe
