July Breaks in Scotland

The summer months are perfect for heading off on that island hopping trip you’ve been dreaming of. Warmer weather and longer days create the ideal setting for exploring the islands and experiences you can find off the mainland of Orkney. With so many to choose from we know it can be tricky to make up your mind, but here are some suggestions to get you started: 

• Westray – situated at the north of Orkney, this island offers impressive sea-cliffs, elusive wildlife, scenic country roads, and attractions to visit such as Westray Heritage Centre, RSPB Noup Cliffs, Castle of Burrian, Noltland Castle and more. 
• Papa Westray – also known as ‘Papay’, this island sits near Westray and although it is small, it is mighty! With a thriving community and ancient history to discover it’s a must visit. Don’t miss Knap of Howar, RSPB North Hill Nature Reserve, and Papay Peedie Tours when you’re here. 
• North Ronaldsay – the northernmost island that is famous for its rare seaweed-eating sheep, and home to some wild and wonderful offerings. Why not check out The North Ronaldsay Sheep Festival (July-August), the North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory, or the North Ronaldsay Lighthouse? 
• Hoy – a name that comes from Old Norse, meaning ‘High Island’, this island is one of Orkney’s most iconic and boasts dramatic hills, valleys, and cliffs. If you’re not exploring the magnificent landscapes here, make sure you visit the Old Man of Hoy, Dwarfie Stane, Scapa Flow Museum, and the Longhope Lifeboat Museum. 

Further up the coast, between Dundee and Aberdeen, Montrose is a coastal town that boasts ancient history and a wide, sandy shore. Visit the House of Dun, an exquisite 18th-century Georgian home and estate, where you can admire fine architectural and artistic details, delve back in time as costumed guides show you around the house, and stroll around the recently renovated courtyard and garden, which is rich in wildlife. 

Head to the Montrose Basin Visitor Centre to learn more about the area's landscape and nature, and spot a variety of wildlife, including sand martins, common terns, and ospreys during the summer months. The Montrose Air Station Visitor Centre is a must-visit! Located on the site of Britain’s first operational military airfield, you can see collections of photographs, exhibits of artefacts and memorabilia, and hear stories about the men and women who served here.  

In-between the sporting spectacles, make sure you take the time to explore everything else that Glasgow has to offer. As a UNESCO City of Music, you’re never far from a concert, a live music bar, or an eclectic music venue. With numerous neighbourhoods across the city, there are plenty of places where you can get stuck into art, culture and heritage. Why not step into Glasgow on a walking tour of the city? If you’re on a budget break, many of the city's top attractions are free to enjoy, including the Burrell Collection, the Riverside Museum, the Gallery of Modern Art and more.