Abbotsford - Borders
Built in 1822 by Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland's greatest literary figures. The building is located on the site of the Cantley Hall farmhouse where he lived until he died 10 years later. The building features turrets, battlements and corbiestepped gables, the house features a collection of historical Scott relics including Rob Roy's gun, Montrose's Sword and other weapons and armour. There is also a library in the house, which has more than 9,000 rare books on its shelves.

Aberdeen
Aberdeen is the service port for one of the world's largest offshore oilfields. Its already large population is mixed with multinational oil workers and a vital student population. An evocative fish market and important maritime museum cluster around the busy harbour. In the vicinity of the city's main thoroughfare, Union St, there's historic Castlegate, late-medieval Provost Skene's House and the Aberdeen Art Gallery, which houses an important Pre-Raphaelite and modern art collection.

Aberdour - Fife
Aberdour Castle, a 14th Century Castle built by the Douglas family. The gallery on the first floor gives an idea of how it was furnished at the time. The castle has a delightful walled garden and dovecote.

Aberfeldy - Perth
The 16th century Castle Menzies at nearby Weems, also the Templar Chapel at Dull of Appin nearby. Croft Moraig stone circle on the outskirts, 3000 years old.

Achnacarry - Inverness
Look for the 'Dark Mile' of trees near which Prince Charlie hid in 1746.

Alloway - Ayr
The 'Burns Monument' built in 1820 which contains many relics of the poet, including the Bible which he gave to his "Highland Mary". The Auld Brig o' Doon and the Auld Kirk where Tam o' Shanter saw the witches dance are more evocative than the Monument and surrounding grounds. 1km up the road is the cottage (his birthplace; little atmosphere) and the state-of-the-art Tam o' Shanter Experience where you are 'transported back to 18th-century Ayrshire by 20th-century technology' (I don't think he'd have been over-impressed).

American Monument - Islay
On the SW peninsula of the island, known as the Oa, a monument to commemorate the shipwrecks in nearby waters, of 2 American ships, the Tuscania and the Ontranto, both of which sank in 1918 at the end of the war. The obelisk overlooks this sea - which is often beset by storms - from a spectacular headland Park and walk 1/2 a mile steadily uphill to monument.

Arbroath - Angus
A coastal town with a traditional and alluring harbour, Arbroath contributes an important historical link to Scotland's past. This is the place where the country's independence was confirmed with the signing of the famous Declaration of Arbroath in Arbroath Abbey in 1320. To this day, the remains of Arbroath Abbey provide the town with an imposing focal point. It was founded in 1178 by King William the Lion. When the Stone of Destiny was liberated from Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day in 1950 it mysteriously appeared here while the hunt for it was at its peak. Also renowned for 'smokies' or smoked fish.

Archaeolink - Aberdeenshire
Near Insch, and within an area of many prehistoric remnants, a spanking new state of the art interpretative centre. Impressively modern approach to history both from exterior and within, where interactive and audiovisual displays bring the food hunter-gatherer past into the culture hunter-gatherer present.

Athelstaneford - East Lothian
The Saltire Centre, commemorating the battle at which the Saltire was adopted as Scotland's national flag, the oldest in the world.

Auldearn - Nairn
The 17th century Dovecot. The Royal Standard was raised here by Montrose in 1645 when he defeated the Covenanters.

Ayr - Ayrshire
Associated in most folk's memories with Robert Burns. The Auld Kirk off main street by the river; the graveyard with a diagram of where his friends are buried; open at all times. DUMFRIES: House where he spent his last years and mausoleum 250m away at back of a kirkyard stuffed with extravagant masonry. 10km north of Dumfries on A76 at ELLISLAND FARM is the most interesting of all the sites. The farmhouse with genuine memorabilia e.g. his mirror, fishing-rod, a poem scratched on glass, original manuscripts. There's his favourite walk by the river where he composed 'Tam o' Shanter' and a strong atmosphere about the place. Farmer/curator Les Byers will let you in to see when he's at home. BROW WELL, near RUTHWELL on the B725 near Caerlaverock, is a quiet place, a well with curative properties where he went in the latter stages of his illness. Not many folk go to this one.

Badenoch - Inverness
Ruthven Barracks, to the east of the River Spey at Kingussie. These were built in 1716 and enlarged by General Wade in 1734. The Highlanders destroyed them after the Rising of 1745.

Ballindalloch Castle - Banff
Ballindalloch is one of the most beautiful and romantic castles in Scotland. It lies in the heart of whisky country with the distilleries of Glenfiddich, Glenfarclas, and Glenlivet nearby. The setting is magnificent; surrounded by majestic hills, the tumbling waters of the rivers Spey and Avon flow through the grounds. One of the very few privately owned castles to be lived in continuously by its original family, the Macpherson Grants, since 1546. It exemplifies the transition from the stark Tower house, necessary for survival in 16th Century Scotland, to the elegant comfortable country house so beloved of Victorians in the Highlands.

Balvenie Castle - Banff
The ruined 15th century Athol Castle of Balvenie, which retains its original 'yett' or iron gate. Earlier owners were the Comyns, followed by the Douglases.

Bannockburn Heritage Centre - Stirling
From this battlefield the Scots 'sent them homewards tae think again', when Edward II's English army was soundly defeated by King Robert the Bruce. This brought the independence for which William Wallace had also fought. The Heritage Centre Exhibition includes a large model of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, and exciting life-size figures of Wallace and Bruce. It brings to life decisive moments in Scotland's History, including the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath, which inspired Thomas Jefferson when he drew up the American Declaration of Independence. An audio-visual presentation tells the dramatic story of Bruce and of the battle, with haunting sounds and images. The equestrian statue of King Robert the Bruce which was erected in 1964 near the battleground dominates the views.

Barpa Lanyass - North Uist
8km south of Lochmaddy, visible from main A867 road, like a hat on the hill (200m away). A 'squashed' beehive burial cairn dating from 1000bc, the tomb of a chieftain. It's largely intact and you can explore inside, crawling through the short entrance tunnel and down through the years.

Battle of the Braes - Skye
6 miles from Portree. Monument is on a rise on the right of the road. The last battle fought on British soil and a significant place in Scots history. When the clearances, uninterrupted by any organised opposition, were virtually complete and vast tracts of Scotland had been depopulated for sheep, the Skye crofters finally stood up in 1882 to the Government troops and said enough is enough. A cairn has been erected near the spot where they fought on behalf of 'all the crofters of Gaeldom', a battle which led eventually to the Crofters Act which has guaranteed their rights ever since. At the end of this road at Peinchorran, there are fine views of Raasay (which was devastated by clearances) and Glamaig, the conical Cuillin, across Loch Sligachan.

Black Isle - Ross and Cromarty
The 16th century Castle Craig, a former residence of the Bishop of Ross.

Borthwick - Midlothian
The 15th century Borthwick Castle, now restored, once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Bothwell Castle - Strathclyde
The largest and finest 13th Century stone castle in Scotland which was much fought over during the Wars of Independence. Part of the original circular keep survives. In a beautiful setting by Uddingston and Hamilton, overlooking the River Clyde.

Brodick Castle - Isle of Arran
This is a castle you will never forget. The tall stately building beckons you with the glow of its warm red sandstone. The setting is superb - fronted by a magnificent bay, surrounded by gardens and overlooked by the majestic mountains of Goatfell. The castle was built on the site of a Viking fortress and part of it dates from the 13th Century. The contents are magnificent and include superb silver, porcelain, paintings and sporting trophies. The woodland garden ranks as one of Europe's finest.

Broughty Ferry - Angus
The 16th century Claypotts Castle, once the home of Claverhouse of Dundee. Now a museum.

Burntisland - Fife
The 13th-16th century Rossend Castle, where Mary, Queen of Scots discovered Chastelard, French poet, hiding in the bedroom. Also the 16th century Parish Church, where the King James version of the Bible was first proposed.

Burrell Collection - Glasgow
Set in the relaxing surroundings of Pollock Park is this wonderful award winning gallery of Sir William Burrell's extensive and stunning collection. This is possibly one of the best collections in Britain.

Isle of Bute - Bute
The remains of the mainly 13th century Castle of Rothesay.

Caerlaverock - Dumfries
The impressive ruined Maxwell stronghold. This is what everyone imagines a medieval fortress to look like, surrounded by water and looking menacing. There is an adventure playground, a model siege engine and a nature trail. In July and August there are archaeological digs.

Callanish Stones - Lewis
24km from Stornoway on Leurbost road. The best preserved and most unusual combination of standing stones in a ring around a tomb, with radiating arms in cross shape. Dating from 4000 BC, they were unearthed from the peat in the mid-19th century and have become the major historical attraction of the Hebrides. Other configurations are nearby. At dawn there's nobody else there (except camping New-Agers). Visitor centre is out of sight (and interesting; with good cafe). Free.

Cambus O' May - Aberdeen
The stone recalling the Battle of Culblean (1335) fought on Culblean Hill.

Cairnholy - Dumfries
1km off the main A75, signposted from road, a pleasant walk up the glen side. A mini Callanish of standing stones around a burial cairn on very human scale and in a serene setting with views of Wigtown Bay, the Southern Uplands behind.

Cairnpapple Hill - West Lothian
Head off from the west end of Linlithgow main street, past the Beecraigs turn off and continue for 3km. Cairnpapple is signed. Cairn and remnants of various rings of stones evince the long sequence of ceremonial activities that took place on this high, windy hill between 2800 and 500 BC. Atmosphere made even more strange by the very 20th-century communications mast next door. Go into the tomb.

Carfin - Lanark
The famous 'grotto' to which thousands of pilgrims come each year. Now has a commemorative statue to the victims of the Potato Famine in Ireland also.

Carrbridge - Inverness
The remains of Inverlaidnan House, where Prince Charlie slept on his way to Culloden and defeat.

Castle Douglas - Dumfries
Threave Castle, built by Archibald, 3rd Earl of Douglas, illegitimate son of the 'Good Sir James' of renown. Also nearby Dundrennan which has a handsome and substantial Cistercian ruined Abbey, founded in 1142, where Mary, Queen of Scots spent her last night in Scotland in 1568.

Caterthun hills (Brown and White) - Mearns
Near Brechin, 2 miles uphill from the war memorial at Kirkton, then follow the signs for half a mile. Lay-by with obvious path to both on either side of the road. White is the easiest (500 yards uphill). These iron- age hill top settlements give a tremendous sense of scale and space and afford an impressive panorama of the Highland line. Colours refer to the heather-covered turf and stone of one and the massive collapsed ramparts of the White.

Clava Cairns - Inverness
Here long before the most infamous battle in Scottish and other histories; well worth finding. Not so well marked but head towards Cawdor Castle, that other great historical landmark, and follow signs for Clava. Chambered cairns in grove of trees. Really looks like just piles of stones, but the echo from 5,000 yrs ago is perceptible to all especially when no one else is there. Remoteness inhibits new age attentions and allows more private meditations in this peaceful spot.

Craignethan Castle - Strathclyde
In a picturesque setting overlooking the River Nethan, the oldest part of the castle is a tower house built by Sir James Hamilton of Finnart in the 16th Century. The castle's extensive defences include a caponier - a stone vaulted artillery chamber - unique in Britain.

Crannog Centre - Perth
Near Aberfeldy, a reconstruction of iron-age dwelling (there are several under the loch). A credible and worthwhile archaeological project.

Crinan - Argyll
The Crinan Canal runs from Crinan on the Sound of Jura via 15 locks to Ardrishaig on Loch Fyne. The picturesque little village of Crinan overlooks the Sound. Walks along by the canal are pleasant, and the village is close to many sites such as the Dalriadan hill fort of Dunadd, and many standing stones.

Crossraguel Abbey - Ayr
Near Maybole, 15 miles south of Ayr. Built in 1244, one of the first Cluniac settlements in Scotland, an influential and rich order, and stripped in the Reformation. Now an extensive ruin of architectural distinction, the ground plan is very well preserved and obvious.

Culross - Fife
Enjoy the refurbished Palace that dates from 1597 with its medieval garden. See the Town House exhibition and video presentation outlining the burgh's 400 years of history and sample the atmosphere of bygone times in the picturesque study beside the ancient Mercat Cross.

Culzean Castle - Ayr
Perched high on the edge of a cliff overlooking Arran and Ailsa Craig, Culzean Castle is one of the most impressive stately homes in Scotland. Set in a 582 - Acre Park, it was designed by master architect Robert Adam to replace the original 16th Century castle. The present structure was completed 1777 - 1792. The most influential architect of the time, Adam's classical embellishment with which he decorated his ceilings and fireplaces is present throughout. The Oval Staircase, one of his greatest achievements, is particularly striking. Every room in the house is palatially decorated using the finest materials. One bedroom is said to be haunted by a lady in green.

Daltulich Bridge - Moray and Nairn
"Randolph's Leap", named after Randolph, 1st Earl of Moray, whose opponent leapt over the river during combat.

David Livingston House Centre - Strathclyde
David Livingstone was born here in Blantyre in 1813. At this centre you can share in his adventurous life, from his childhood in the Blantyre Mills to his explorations in the heart of Africa all of which are dramatically illustrated in this historic tenement building. The building remains virtually unchanged.

Dean Castle - Strathclyde
The Keep, built about 1350 with a dungeon, great hall and battlements, was built as a strong defensive tower. The Palace, built about 1465, was altogether more luxurious. Both are fine examples of Scottish castles of their period. The castle features arms and armour, tapestries and musical instruments. The Country Park surrounding the castle is perfect for those who wish to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the nature trail and woodland paths.

Deep Sea World - Fife
Situated in North Queensferry, voyage along the seabed and take a "diver's eye" view of the world beneath the waves. Deep Sea World's underwater safari is the longest in the world - a 112-metre tunnel transporting you through 1 million gallons of water. There is also Scotland's largest collection of piranhas, one of the world most deadly fish, and the UK's largest amphibian collection. This fascinating new exhibit takes you from the rain soaked forest of South America to the dry Australian deserts on an exciting interactive journey to meet a fascinating array of creatures, including the world's most poisonous frog.

Discovery Point - Dundee
Discovery Point is the home to Captain Scott's famous ship RRS Discovery. Discovery was one of the last wooden three masted ships to be built in Britain and the first to be constructed specifically for scientific research. Launched in 1901 it was the beginning of an adventure that would take her deep into the unknown waters of Antarctica and secure her place in the heroic age of polar exploration. Explore the actual ship Scott sailed in. See the Wardroom where he planned his epic journey, see how the ship was built, witness the launch and see her blasted free of crushing pack ice in a dramatic rescue.

Dryburgh Abbey - Borders
Lying near St Boswells, one of the most evocative of ruins, an aesthetic attraction since the late 18th century. Sustained innumerable attacks from the English since its inauguration by Premonstratensian Canons in 1150. Celebrated by Sir Walter Scott, buried here in 1832 (with his biographer Lockhart at his feet), its setting, amongst huge cedar trees on the banks of the Tweed is one of pure historical romance.

Dufftown - Banff
The "Battle Stane", reputed to commemorate the defeat of the Danes in 1010.

Dumbarton Castle - Dumbarton
Set in the ancient capital of Strathclyde, this is the site where Mary Queen of Scots sailed to France as a child in 1548. The castle is spectacularly set on a volcanic rock overlooking the River Clyde. There are also displays in the Governor's House.

Dundee - Angus
William Wallace attended the High School here. 14th century Parish Church of St Mary's, with steeple tower and local history exhibition. The Howff, 16th century graveyard - in 1564 Mary, Queen of Scots, granted the use of the lands and orchards of the former Greyfriars monastery, founded by Devorgilla, mother of John Baliol, which had been destroyed in 1547-8, to Dundee for its new burial ground. RRS Discovery (see above) is down at the quayside, and the Verdant Works are a living museum to the now-defunct jute trade. A lively mix of past and present, with many shops, pubs and restaurants.

Dundrennan Abbey - Dumfries
This abbey was built in the 12th Century in a remote area of Kirkcudbright. It is where Mary Queen of Scots spent her last night in Scotland before travelling to England for execution.

Dunfermline - Fife
Dunfermline is one of the oldest settlements in Scotland. As well as the ancient abbey, there is also evidence of Iron and even Bronze Age settlements on the site. The abbey dates back over 900 years to the time of King Malcolm and Queen Margaret, later Saint Margaret. The town was the capital of Scotland for more than 500 years and the ruins of the ancient palace adjoin the abbey complex. Today's abbey is dominated by the modern parish church which bears the name 'King Robert The Bruce' around its central tower. The great hero of Scotland was buried beneath the abbey, and his heart was removed and send to Melrose abbey in the Borders. When the parish church was built in 1821 his body was re-interred beneath the pulpit of the abbey. His final resting place is now marked with a spectacular brass plaque. The town was the birthplace to Andrew Carnegie who spent his early childhood in Dunfermline before emigrating to the 'new world' of America with his family. He later made his millions in the Pittsburgh steel industry, then returned to gift many of the towns greatest treasures including the Carnegie Hall, Pittencrieff Park and the town's central library.

Dunkeld - Perth
The ancient ruined cathedral, where the Wolf of Badenoch is buried, built on the site of an earlier Celtic Christian site.

Dunnottar Castle - Grampian
Sir William Keith, the Great Marischal of Scotland, built this castle in 1392. It sits on a cliff top overlooking the North Sea by Stonehaven. One of the areas that intrigues visitors is the Whigs Vault Dungeons where, in 1685, 167 Covenanters died. Other areas of interest includes a tower, a gatehouse, the chapel and the priest house. The Scottish Crown Jewels were hidden here from Oliver Cromwell's Roundhead's.

Dunstaffnage Castle - Highlands
This very fine 13th Century castle is set on a rock with a great curtain wall. Close to the building is the remains of a chapel with beautiful architectural detail. The history of the castle stretches from the Wars of Independence to the 1745 Rising.

Dunvegan - Isle of Skye
The restored 15th-19th century castle of the Macleods in which is kept the famous "Fairy Flag" of Dunvegan. Nearby is the "Fairy Bridge", which no horse could cross without shying.

East Aquhorthies Stone Circle - Aberdeen
Signed from B993 from Inverurie to Monymusk. A circle of pinkish stones with 2 grey sentinels flanking a huge recumbent stone set in the rolling countryside of the Don Valley with Bennachie in the background.

Edinburgh
Calton Hill is worth climbing for its superb views and romantic monuments dating from the Enlightenment, when the city was known as the 'Athens of the North'. Before you walk down into the New Town, have a look at Greyfriars Kirk, site of the signing of the National Covenant in 1638. New Town lies to the north, separated by the sunken railway line and Princes Street Gardens, which feature the gothic Sir Walter Scott Monument. Georgian order and elegance are reflected in New Town's beautiful squares, circuses and terraces. The National Gallery of Scotland (see below) has an impressive collection of European art, while the pageant of Scottish history can be seen at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. Edinburgh has a rich and varied cultural life, from the Tattoo to the International and Fringe festivals. The Royal Mile has numerous good-value and enjoyable eateries, with everything from Singaporean satays to traditional Scottish cuisine.

Edinburgh Castle - Lothian
When people think of Edinburgh they immediately think of The Castle, towering above Edinburgh atop an extinct volcano with stunning views of the New Town and the Firth of Forth. It is believed that the building dates back to the Bronze Age, but only really began to take shape in the 11th Century when Malcom III and Queen Margaret took up residence there. The Queen's private chapel, a tiny Norman Building, still stands nearly 900 years after it was built. The building was often attacked by English invaders and fell into enemy hands. The last time it was captured was in 1640 by Oliver Cromwell's Roundheads, after which it was used as a prison and later a military garrison, which it still is to this day. Displayed at the castle is the Stone of Destiny, the ancient coronation stone of Scottish Kings, which was returned to Scotland in 1997 after an absence of seven centuries.

Edzell Castle - Mearns
Near the village off main street, signposted. Pleasing red sandstone ruin in bucolic setting - birds twitter, rabbits run. Notable walled parterre garden created by Sir David Lindsay way back in 1604. The wall niches are nice. Mary Queen of Scots was here (of course).

Eilan Donan Castle - Ross and Cromarty
Bombarded by the English frigate 'Worcester' in 1719 in order to dislodge a party of Spaniards supporting a Jacobite rising. Probably one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. Built in 1220 by Alexander II as a defence against the Vikings, the castle was to later become the stronghold of the Mackenzies of Kintail, the Earls of Seaforth. Located on the banks of Loch Duich in Wester Ross it is almost impossible to find a word to describe its beauty.

Elderslie - Renfrew
The memorial to the great Scottish patriot, Sir William Wallace, who was reputed to have been born here.

Elgin - Moray
The ruined cathedral, which has suffered many vicissitudes, including its sacking by the Wolf of Badenoch in 1390.