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Dominated by the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, this picturesque city offers shopping on Princes Street, the grandeur of the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral and historic Palace of Holyrood House, where Queen Mary lived and many Scottish kings were wed. Or venture across the moors to marvel at the scenic Highlands.

Excursions

As well as being a wonderful holiday destination the Highlands are home to a quarter of a million people living in communities spread throughout the area. From the vibrant city of Inverness to remote crofting communities and sparsely populated islands. What these communities do have in common and something that is particularly apparent to visitors is that they are all part of an area which is culturally distinct - influenced by our often violent history, a strong cultural heritage, and the gaelic language. The natural world is also different - the varied climate leads to a wide range of habitats and the relatively sparse population makes this the premier area in Britain, if not Europe for wildlife.

Glencoe is a scenic and historic glen in Scotland. Visit the battlefields infamous of a 17th century massacre, as well as the setting for the third Harry Pottery film. Enjoy hillwalking and mountaineering, and exploring the Highlands of Scotland.

The history of Stirling is rich with legends and events from the figure of William Wallace who fought and won the battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297 against an occupying English army to the Battle of Bannockburn where Robert the Bruce's defeat of another English army in June 1314 secured Scottish independence. Stirling heritage dates back 800 years to the 12th century, when the town first received the burgh title. It was granted a Royal Charter, becoming one of the most important towns of medieval Scotland. Stirling's importance developed from the fact it controlled the lowest crossing point of the River Forth. John Knox regularly preached in the Church of the Holy Rude next to Stirling Castle. The area of the burgh covers most of the region spreading outwards to include villages such as St. Ninians, Causewayhead, Bridge of Allan and Torbrex, which were once very separate communities, making them part of the bigger picture of Stirling as the ancient ‘Royal Capital’.

Glasgow is Scotland's biggest city and major tourist destination, possessing some of Britain's finest architecture and hosting a variety of cultural events and attractions. Glasgow has been described as the finest surviving example of a great Victorian city. Of particular interest is George Square - lined by several buildings constructed in the Italian Renaissance style. Few buildings pre-date 18th century. The most prominent of these are Glasgow Cathedral, and Provand's Lordship, which is the city's oldest house (c. 1471) and now a museum. The cathedral, situated on high ground to the east of the city and dating in parts from 12th century, is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture. The city has numerous parks and ornamental open spaces, including the Botanic Garden and zoological gardens. Glasgow grew around a church built in the 6th century by St Kentigern, who converted Scots to Christianity. The commercial growth of the community dates from the union of Scotland and England in 1707 and the opening up of trade in the 18th century when Glasgow became a major port and shipbuilder.