Brief, fleeting… but worth every second
When time is precious and life is full, a short break away is often the most practical option. You don’t need to travel far to explore new landscapes and ‘get away from it all’. There are many stunning land and cityscapes right here in the UK – and no more so than in our northernmost country, the mighty land of the Scots. This year is the Year of Homecoming in Scotland, a celebration of everything great about these craggy, ancient lands. So what better time to plan a spring or summer visit than right now?
A weekend in Edinburgh
Fly from Gatwick, Luton, or Stansted in 1 hour 15
Enjoy a weekend of history, culture and dramatic architecture in Edinburgh. Explore the mysteries of the Old Town with its towering medieval houses and winding streets, or head to the New Town in all its Georgian splendor to mingle with the young bright things in trendy bars and Michelin star restaurants.
Where to stay
The Witchery by the castle
Formerly a rundown 16th century building on the Royal Mile, the Witchery was soon bought by renowned Scottish hotelier James Thomson and transformed into an opulent boutique hotel. The interiors are dramatically sumptuous and crammed with dark antiques, heavy fabrics and wood panelling. The atmosphere is terrific and rooms start from £325, including breakfast and a champagne hamper.
To book a room, visit The Witchery website, or call them on 0131 225 5613
What to see
Edinburgh Castle
You can’t leave Edinburgh without visiting its craggy hilltop castle. The iconic building looms dramatically over the whole city like a scene from a gothic fairytale. Wander through its great rooms and museums to discover more about its fascinating past as an iron-age fort, a home to Scottish monarchs and an army headquarters in the 1600s.
To learn more and book tickets, visit the castle website, or call them on 0131 668 8081
Where to eat
The Kitchin
Edinburgh boasts five Michelin star restaurants, including The Kitchin on Edinburgh’s Leith waterfront. Here you can sample local Scottish ingredients prepared with a French twist and presented in true haut cuisine style. Try hand-dived Orkney scallops baked in the shell and served with a white wine, vermouth and wild herb sauce, or how about a rockpool of local shellfish and sea vegetables served with a shellfish consommé?
Book a table through The Kitchin website, or by calling them on 0131 555 1755
A weekend of walking
Fly to Inverness from Gatwick or Luton in 1 hour 40.
Scotland is world famous for its staggeringly beautiful landscapes. The countryside is peppered with glassy lochs, snow-peaked mountains, ancient castles and rugged coastlines all waiting to be explored. Grab some sturdy walking boots, an OS map, a canteen full of tea and of course a packet of shortbread – and head out to the world famous Highlands near Inverness.
Where to stay
The Dower House
Enjoy log fires, fresh flowers and pretty furnishings in this small 18th century guesthouse set in beautiful gardens bursting with foliage. The Dower House offers a cosy home-from-home and a great base from which to explore the stunning surrounding landscape.
Book a room in this luxury guesthouse by visiting the Dower House website, or calling them on 01463 870090.
What to see
Loch Ness
How can you stay within mere miles of the most famous loch in the world without making a visit? Loch Ness is 20 miles long, a mile wide and 700 feet deep – making it the largest lake in Scotland by volume. While it is of course home to the famous legend of the Loch Ness monster, there are many other reasons to visit this stunning landmark. Here there is plenty to keep the outdoor types occupied, including golf, walking trails, boat trips and fishing – all set against the staggering backdrop of the misty mountains.
Where to eat
Ceder Tree Restaurant
Dine like a royal at the Ceder Tree restaurant at Bunchrew House. With its pale pink walls and elegant turrets, this sprawling house could be straight from a gothic romance – and the paneled walls and opulent dining room do nothing to shake the illusion. Friendly staff serve delicious Scottish food with a modern twist alongside carefully selected wines. To top it off, the menu changes every night so each visit is unique.
To book a place, visit the Bunchrew House website, or call them on 01463 234917
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Whether you opt for a flyaway city break, or a relaxing weekend in the Highlands, you’re sure to enjoy your short break in Scotland.
