It’s been in the news a lot recently with the recent referendum on independence, but people often forget that Scotland is also a fantastic tourist destination. This beautiful country in the north of the British Isles might be known for a lot of things, from its haggis to its bingo halls.
1. Edinburgh Castle
Located in the Scottish capital atop an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle forms part of the Edinburgh World Heritage Site. Visitors to Edinburgh Castle can admire the Scottish Crown Jewels and the world famous ‘Stone of Destiny’, both of which can be found on site. Courtesy vehicles for wheelchair users can be booked in advance to overcome the steep areas, and the site also provides wheelchair hire. With a electric wheelchair, people will be able to negotiate these themselves. As the vehicle runs all day in the castle, if the van is full, it will be a short wait to be taken up. Site does not mention specific capacity.
2. Royal Yacht Britannia
Fans of the Royal Family will love the Royal Yacht Britannia, which provides an insight into the lives of Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh. Many famous folk have visited the boat, and you too can join the ranks of the celebrities with the ship’s exclusive tours. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh’s personally-furnished private bedrooms are proudly displayed, and visitors can enjoy afternoon tea on deck, which is fully accessible for wheelchairs, with lifts and ramps on each level. Wheelchair accessible toilets are also available.
3. The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Burns Night is one of the most traditional occasions on the Scottish calendar, and this is thanks to the country’s most famous poet, Robert Burns, born in 1759. The museum, converted from the original cottage in which Burns was born, holds the world’s largest collection of Burns’ manuscripts together with many historic landmarks. The site has some step areas but staff are willing to help those in wheelchairs, and generally there is good wheelchair access throughout, including accessible restrooms.
4. The Scotch Whisky Experience
One of Scotland’s finest exports is its whisky, and so there’s no better place to try a ‘wee dram’ than at the Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh. The experience gives visitors the chance to learn about the history of the drink and how it’s made. The site caters for younger visitors too, and also provides additional facilities for those with sight or hearing impairments. Plus, there is an accessible restroom. With full wheelchair access, it’s no wonder that the attraction has won a prestigious Scottish Tourist Board Thistle Award.
