A quick drive, flight or train will take holiday seekers north to sensational Scotland, the perfect spot for a weekend break. Scotland has everything a holiday goer would want in a summer holiday from pristine beaches, delicious food and drink, to a warm welcome.

VisitScotland has gathered a list of unique experiences for a getaway this summer from the largest arts festival in the world, to Peter Pan's birthplace in Dumfries, to Shetland, one of Lonely Planet's top destinations of 2019.

Whether looking for a city, Highland or island break, Scotland is a lovely last-minute weekend destination for all to enjoy…

New attractions

Storytime becomes a reality in Dumfries where families can visit the location that inspired J.M. Barrie's classic children's novel, Peter Pan. Moat Brae is where author J.M. Barrie played as a child and where he discovered Neverland. After being saved from demolition, the attraction opened in June and will include visiting exhibitions, interactive rooms and a discovery garden.

Another great attraction for kids of all ages is Dinosaur Kingdom which officially opened at Landmark Forest Adventure Park in June. Scotland's own Jurassic Park is in the Scottish Highlands at the heart of Cairngorms National Park. There are more than 20 real-life-sized dinosaurs roaming including Triceratops, Velociraptors and the 50-foot Tyrannosaurus.

Scotland claims a quarter of the world's whale and dolphin population and, launching this summer, visitors can follow the Hebridean Whale Trail, the first of its kind in the UK. The trail has developed 25 whale-watching and whale heritage sites across the west coast of Scotland for marine-wildlife enthusiasts. In addition to whale-watching, the trail includes stunning beaches, lively harbours and dramatic cliffs.

Festivals and sporting events

Eighty-five countries from around the globe will be represented in this year's festivals in Edinburgh including the world's largest arts festival Edinburgh Festival Fringe (2-26 Aug), the Edinburgh International Book Festival (10-26 Aug) and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (2-24 Aug) to name a few. These events bring in similar numbers to the Olympics and World Cup, so attending these festivals should be at the top of everyone's travel bucket list. Escape the crowds for an afternoon and hop on a city bus to the historic town of Queensferry. Take in views of the iconic Forth Bridge while on a day cruise to the island of Inchcolm and explore its medieval abbey.

For those looking for an extended weekend spot, visit Shetland, one of Lonely Planet's top destinations of 2019, which exhibits enchanting Viking history, a plethora of wildlife and stunning landscapes like St. Ninian's Isle and the volcanic Eshaness Cliffs. The island has a variety of exciting festivals happening this summer including the family-friendly Shetland Nature Festival (6-14 July). Take part in a series of guided walks, family days out and evening talks and get the chance to see puffins, killer whales and rare flowers up close. For those looking for a dance party, attend the Shetland Folk Frenzy (14-19 July), a celebration of the music and musicians of Shetland. There will be workshops, concerts, sessions and masterclasses and visitors can join in on an authentic Scottish ceilidh.

Later on in the summer, the Solheim Cup (9-15 Sept) returns to Scotland - the birthplace of golf - after nineteen years to hold the largest female golf tournament in the world. Perth was once considered the capital of Scotland and was nicknamed the 'Fair City' after Sir Walter Scott described the city as “The fairest portion of the northern kingdom”. After cheering on the world's best female golfers, dine at one of the world's best restaurants. Perth is the only place in Scotland with a double Michelin starred restaurant – the Andrew Fairlie Restaurant. The restaurant is conveniently located at the five-star luxury Gleneagles Hotel where the tournament is held.

Sample the outstanding seafood from the waters of Loch Fyne at the Tarbert Seafood Festival (6 & 7 July) where there will be authentic Scottish music, a parade and stalls around the beautiful harbour. Be amazed at the Tarbert Traditional Boat Festival (20 & 21 July) where 40 traditional boats from across the UK, including a full-size replica Viking longship, will be showcased along with traditional music and games Learn more about Scotland's Viking heritage with the Loch Fyne Viking Festival (13 & 14 July) which will include guests like the Causeway Archers and Glasgow Vikings. Tarbert also makes a great base for day-trips to Loch Lomond, Isle of Islay, Isle of Jura and Isle of Arran.

To experience something truly Scottish, venture to the Highland Games which happens every weekend in the summer from May to September. Over 80 Highland Games take place across the country including a few castle grounds hosting. Traditional Highland sports caber toss, tug o' war and the hammer throw are just a few of the events to see.

Get wild

Scotland is an adventure seeker oasis. Wild camping is permitted in Scotland which allows for pitching a tent anywhere, there are guidelines that all campers should follow. Campers should familiarise themselves with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code which means everyone should follow a policy of 'leave-no-trace'. Wild Camping allows those to explore remote parts, breathtaking scenery and get close to nature. Pitch a tent off the South West Coastal 300 or journey to the Isle of Rum, an enchanting place with extinct volcanoes and vast wildlife.

When wild camping, why not try wild swimming? A popular Scottish activity, brave hearts can take a dip in the cold Scottish waters. Swim in the quarry pools on Easdale Island, make a splash in the waters of Loch Morlich with stunning views of the Cairngorms mountains and go treasure hunting in the Orkney Islands and discover an intrepid wreck on a guided dive.

Getting here

New Caledonian Sleeper trains launched 28 April, 2019: New carriages made their debut on the Lowlander route between London and Glasgow/Edinburgh. Highlander route is to follow shortly between London and Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William. Book here: www.sleeper.scot

New direct Loganair flights launched May 2019 – London Southend to Stornoway and also Aberdeen. Book here: https://www.loganair.co.uk/

For more unique summer activities, go to www.visitscotland.com

ENDS

NOTES

For further information contact:

Summer Martin

Assistant PR Manager, VisitScotland

0131 472 2115

summer.martin@visitscotland.com

Notes to editors

About VisitScotland

• In April 2018 VisitScotland launched a brand new global campaign, Scotland is Now.  To find out more go to www.scotlandisnow.com  or join the conversation by using #ScotlandIsNow
• VisitScotland's Community site was set up for the Scottish public to help, engage and enthuse potential visitors about the country.  To get involved go to: www.visitscotland.com/community
• For holiday information on Scotland go to www.visitscotland.com  
• To ensure everyone can safely enjoy Scotland's amazing countryside and landscapes, VisitScotland encourages all visitors to fully respect their surroundings by behaving in a responsible and appropriate way.
• For VisitScotland's press releases go to www.visitscotland.org/media_centre.aspx,
• For tourism statistics and frequently asked questions go to www.visitscotland.org

PLEASE NOTE

This copy was correct at the time of going to press. VisitScotland cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information and accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation.  All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by the reliance on the information contained herewith, or in the event of any company, individual or firm ceasing to trade, is hereby excluded.