Experience the Coastal Charm of St Andrews
No visit to Scotland is complete without a visit to St Andrews! This sparkling medieval town is the birthplace of golf, home to the third oldest English-speaking university in the world, and the largest medieval cathedral ruins in Scotland. Take a stroll along any of St Andrews’ many beaches from West Sands to East Sands, or St Andrews’ tranquil Botanical Gardens. For a glimpse of St Andrew’s past, climb St Rule’s tower, visit the Golf and Wardlaw Museum, the stunning St Salvator’s Cathedral and quad, or check out the breathtaking views of the North Sea from St Andrews Castle.
St Andrews boasts a variety of unique and enchanting shops. Find the perfect gifts at the cosy Topping and Co bookshop, the enchanting Farmore Interiors, and Jessica Anderton’s own brick-and-mortar store right in the heart of town on South Street, which features homewares inspired by St Andrew’s 150th Golf Open.
Enjoy the catch of the day at local restaurants like Tail End, gelato at the family-owned Jannetta’s Gelateria , fresh pastries and espresso at Newport Bakery, Taste, or a farmer’s market style shop at the Balgrove Larder. For further afield, spend a day on the Fife Pilgrim Way, stopping at ancient fishing villages such as Crail, Pittenweem, and Anstruther, where you will find local pottery shops and world-famous fish and chips.
An Elegant Country Getaway
Looking for a self-catering, exclusive-use house this summer? Consider a stay at a grand country mansion like Toftcombs House only half an hour from Edinburgh. Toftcombs is a Baronial-style red sandstone mansion offering 10 acres of private grounds offering a gorgeous view of the Scottish borders and countryside. This stately home is beautifully furnished with 11 individually styled bedrooms to host up to 25 guests, a formal lounge with real coal fires for crisp nights, snooker and music rooms, and a fully equipped kitchen with Aga and gas cookers, making it the ideal place for your family get-togethers, celebrations and weddings. To find out more regarding events, pricing, and availability, please contact Toftcombs House here.
Northcoast 500: The Ultimate Scottish Road Trip
To get a sweeping views of Scotland’s rugged coast, embark on one of the world’s most beautiful road trips. The Northcoast route covers just over 500 miles of incredible coastal scenery. Experience a wide variety of landscapes rural Scotland has to offer, from white sandy beaches (as seen in the image above of Durness), misty, rugged mountains, and quaint fishing villages. The route stops at bucket-list destinations across the north coast of Scotland. Explore the magical city of Inverness, the Black Isle for dolphin spotting and craft beer, Easter Ross for a glass of local Glenmorangie whisky, or Sutherland’s dramatic wilderness. Visit the official North Coast 500 website for samples of itineraries tailored to your individual interests, such as history, local food, and golf.
City Break in Edinburgh
Venture to the capital for a fabulous city break. With its dazzling spires and cobblestones, Scotland’s capital city can feel like a storybook. Meander up the winding paths to Royal Mile and Edinburgh’s Old Town where you can find delightful cafes and boutiques and the Edinburgh Castle at the top of the hill. Be sure to check out Holyrood Palace for a glimpse of the royal family’s residence in Edinburgh and the Royal Botanic Gardens. For more adventure, climb the famous Arthur’s Seat to soak in breathtaking views of the city.
Fancy some shopping? Visit the new St James' Quarter, a new retail led, lifestyle district that fully integrates into and enhances Edinburgh’s City Centre providing an inspiring and vibrant destination for locals and visitors to live, shop, eat and play. St James Quarter houses an enviable line up of restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, public spaces and leisure venues covering 1.7 million square feet. St James Quarter is set to become a welcoming cultural and lifestyle hub for art, culture and fashion that will complement the city’s world-renowned cultural offering and support its vibrant events calendar. We love Bonnie & Wild, the Scottish marketplace located on the top floor.
Author: Nora Kirkham