Scotland's eight cities rated for weekend breaks

Although my travels took me to all four corners of the United Kingdom, some of the best times were spend in Scotland exploring the amazing cities and their rich history. Scotland is home to eight cities, each getting its own chapter in the book and serving up a stunning range of opportunities for a a city break. Some people may scoff at the idea of going to Aberdeen or Dunfermline for a short break, but I’d urge you to try all the Scottish cities and given them your consideration when planning your next short break.

Aberdeen Scotland’s granite city may be well known for the local stone that went into the local buildings, but it’s also a settlement that has been defined by its relationship with the sea, both when it comes to shipbuilding, fishing and oil exploration. Heading to the Aberdeen Maritime Museum really helps you to make sense of the city’s history, which includes the construction of no fewer than 3000 ships. Look out for the huge scale model of an oil rig, which allows you to examine the wealth of detail contained within these structures, and the 2018 memorial outside the building dedicated to those who played a role in the city’s fishing industry.

Dundee Once you’ve scoffed all the Dundee Cake you can manage, it’s time to head to one of the nation’s most prestigious museums housed here on the banks of the Tay. Walk past the statue of Desperate Dan (The Dandy and Beano are from Dundee) who has had far too much pie, and make your way to Discovery Point. Anybody with even the slightest interest in travel and exploration will be beside themselves here as you can explore the actual ship that set off to Antarctica with Captain Scott on the explorative mission of 1901. Breathtaking stuff.

Dunfermline This is arguably the lesser known of Scotland’s cities, the shy one that sits at the back and doesn’t get half the attention it deserves. But there is plenty within Dunfermline to justify a city break. Start off with Dunfermline Abbey, an incredible building with nearly 1000 years of history. This is the final resting place of many Scottish kings and queens and a top destination to try and understand the royal timeline. Save time also to visit Carnegie’s birthplace, now a museum celebrating the life and achievements of the Scottish-born philanthropist. He helped to establish over 3000 libraries in the United States, along with many other public buildings.

Edinburgh This needs no introduction. Put simply, Edinburgh is one of the best capital cities in the world. Top attractions include the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Camera Obscura, but make time also for one of the Mercat Tours spooky walks and a visit to the past at Real Mary King’s Close. A trip to Edinburgh, though, is often about the time of year you choose to go. Head to the Scottish capital in December and you’ll love the fabulous Christmas Market, while those who wait until the end of the month can get involved in the full Hogmanay celebrations. The busiest time, of course, is August, when the Edfringe pulls in tourists from all over the world. It’s your opportunity to see entertaining acts you cannot enjoy at any other time. Just be prepared to remortgage your home to get a hotel.

Glasgow Once one of the biggest industrial cities in the world, Glasgow has experienced difficult periods of economic adjustment but is now one of the most welcoming and cosmopolitan places in the country. With a fine array of museums exploring this rich history, it’s easy to pass a few days in Glasgow. Save time to wander around the huge, blocky buildings that give the city an American feel. You won’t be surprised to learn that Batman and Indiana Jones movies have been shot here. For a peaceful, if macabre, stroll, head over the Necropolis to experience one of the most unusual burial sites in Europe.

Inverness It’s the gateway to the Highlands and it’s our most northern city. For many people in the United Kingdom, Inverness can be really tricky to get to, but it’s well worth the effort. There’s a lot to be said for simply wandering around the historic streets and watching people go by from a coffee shop, or maybe spend an hour browsing at the famous Leakey’s bookshop. Two world class trips are also doable from Inverness and are essential activities to get the most from your visit. Make the journey to Loch Ness and see if you can see a ripple on the water that might be Nessie. And save another day for a visit to Culloden, the famous battle site with a fantastic visitor centre.

Perth A recent city with status granted as part of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2012, Perth has a strong royal connection; this is where Scottish monarchs were crowned over a 400 year period. The coronations here at Scone Palace, just like the King Charles III’s in London, took place with the monarch sitting above the Stone of Destiny.

Stirling Dominated by its beautiful castle, Stirling is an awesome city with some breathtaking architecture. The castle is the biggest magnet, sitting on volcanic rock and surrounded by a fascinating Old Town. It’s a castle that rivals Edinburgh in grandeur, though not in visitor numbers. From the ramparts in the castle you can enjoy excellent views over Stirling, including historic battlefields trod by the likes of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. On the city’s outskirts you’ll find the national Wallace Monument, a place to learn about the role he played in Scottish history as well as enjoy memorable far-reaching views.

Bright Lights, Big Cities by Peter Naldrett is published by Bloomsbury, out now, priced £20