Fantastic Country House, near St Andrews (152)

Perhaps the most well known town in Scotland, St Andrews is world famous! The historic town is home to the oldest  University in Scotland, the distinguished St Andrews, and the town is very much centred around the elegant university buildings. If this wasn’t enough St Andrews is also the renowned Home of Golf. Visitors come from far and wide to experience the links courses, and the Old Course is perhaps the most eminent and prolific. Investigation is a must before visiting, as there is just so much on offer. There is more to discover in the town however; the majestic ruins of the Castle sit atop the headland, jutting into the sea, and just a little further along the coast are the magnificent ruins of what was once the largest Cathedral in Scotland. Climb to the top of St Rule’s Tower for splendid views of the town. The Botanic Gardens are a little piece of paradise; exotic and native species of all kinds are arranged in the glasshouses and 18 acres of mature landscaped gardens.

Located between the Firth of Tay and the Firth of Forth, the Kingdom of Fife has some of the finest beaches in Scotland. Where there are beaches you will find links golf courses and St Andrews is known the world over as the home of golf. Whilst the Old Course is the championship course, there are beautiful courses everywhere.  The beautiful coastal strip at East Neuk overlooks the Firth of Forth and has many quaint and picturesque fishing villages, like Anstruther, Crail and Pittenweem. the former historical county of Kincardineshire has been included within the boundaries of Fife, and the old county town of Kincardine can be found on the shores of the Firth of Forth. Dunfermline is an ancient Capital of Scotland, and is steeped in history. Seven Kings of Scotland are buried here, and the Palace and Abbey is worth a visit. The historic Royal Burgh of Culross is also a heritage site of interest, and for a family trip out, why not visit Deep Sea World at North Queensferry, which holds a million gallons of water and has one of the longest underwater tunnels in the world to watch the marine life.

Incorporating the two largest Scottish cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, Central Scotland is a hive of activities and attractions for visitors, and there will be plenty to entertain you on your trip. For a family outing try Edinburgh Castle, for a day at the beach try the Firth of Forth coastline, for shopping you can’t beat either city centre, or if you just want soaking up some Scottish landscapes try Perthshire’s rolling southern lowlands, and wilderness of its highland. Whatever takes your fancy, the central counties can offer it all. Airports at Edinburgh, Glasgow and Prestwick offer great transportation links for those coming from afar.