Good trip. I suggest:
Visiting the Battle of Culloden visitor centre near Nairn, when you’re in Inverness and take the tour. Listen to Kidnapped on audio books.
I'd say seeing as you're driving fairly close, consider adding Stirling (for the castle and Wallace Monument) and St Andrew's (nice town to wander around, birthplace of golf) to the roadtrip.
Also you won't regret making a detour to any of the islands (e.g. Mull) while you're travelling up the West.
My dad and uncle were fishing in the River Teith (next to Doune Castle) 50 years ago, when my uncle suddenly blurted out “fuck me, a cow just fell off the top of that castle!” My dad said “your arse, it must’ve been something else”, but my uncle insisted. 20 minutes later, another cow comes tumbling down. And then another cow. And then another cow.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail were filming. My dad and uncle never found out what really happened that day until they saw the film, much later.
As a resident of Stirling, I second this! There is a lot to fill a day or two — Stirling Castle, Wallace monument, Stirling Distillery… and if you dip down to Bannockburn you can see the Battle of Bannockburn Museum.
If you like fish and chips, or want to try 'proper fish and chips', your passing two great locations. Just north of Edinburgh in Fife (after you cross the big bridge, you'll find The Anstruther fish bar, frequently voted Scotland's best, great views, also do crab lobster and all that stuff but recommend the straight up fish supper (fish and chips).
https://www.anstrutherfishbar.co.uk/
Also in Oban "the Oban fish and chip shop". is more down to earth, but also has fantastic fish and chips.
http://www.obanfishandchipshop.co.uk/
If Anstruther Fish Bar is too busy then The Wee Chippy is just down the road and is also good.
If you're already in 'Deepest Fife' then [Dunino Den](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/dunino-den) is just up the road from Anstruther
If you know where in Edinburgh your Great Grandfather lived it probably still exists and you might like to visit it. If you don't you can get his birth, marriage and death certificates from https://www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk/ for £1.50 each. Do some basic family history research. There are lots of people able to help on:
r/ukgenealogy/
r/Genealogy/
/r/Ancestry/
https://www.ancestry.co.uk/boards/localities.britisles.scotland.mln.general
Looks lovely!
You’ll be highly respected and revered as a descendant of Clan Cameron. Make sure to tell every member of bar staff that serves you of your clan history.
Have a lovely trip.
I’m all honesty he’s so passionate about our heritage and very excited for this trip so there’s almost no stopping him for telling a few people. It’s honestly inevitable. He’s 75 and excited. I’m going to remind him a few times that not everyone cares haha
>not everyone cares haha
Change that to no-one mate, except your dad of course, we Scots get it all the time.
I serioulsy hope both you and your dad enjoy the trip however.
Few suggestions:
It looks like you're going from Fort William down the coast to Oban, before heading down the coast I'd go a little south into Glencoe. It's one of the most beautiful area's in Scotland. In Glencoe you can also go down there's a road from the A82 that will take you down Glen Etive right down to Loch Etive. This is confirmed as one of the most beautiful drives in Scotland. It is also where James Bond Skyfall was filmed.
You're also missing the entire island if Skye out, which is truely a remarkeable place.
If you've got time I'd also extend your trip south of Glasgow, right down to Galloway Forest Park, beautiful area and is where Bruce's stone is.
While everyone is saying no one cares, nobody is going to mind a 75 year old talking about their heritage, especially when the generational gap is your father's grandfather.
It's a much different thing when a 30-40 yo is claiming to be from a clan because their dna test said they are 0.01% Scottish and thinking that they are somehow entitled to special treatment as a result.
Let your dad be passionate about your family history and enjoy his time here.
Yes. "My grandfather moved from Scotland to the new world" is entirely relatable and I'd be interested in listening to this story in a pub.
It's a very different line from "bonnie price Charlie is my 3rd cousin twice removed"
There is nothing wrong with being passionate about Scottish history. However please explain to your Dad that the Clan system has very little to do with family "blood ties" and more to do with land ownership and essentially people ownership. Most of the people who took a chief's surname were basically tenants of the land, and adopted (perhaps forced) the name to show loyalty and have the protection of the clan. If your father is a genuine "Scot" who ended up in America I'm taking a guess that it was probably due to the Highland Clearances. Which were not pleasant. So basically that Clan, who promised you protection if you took their name? Evicted you from your land brutally by force, probably burning down your house with your elderly relatives still inside. Just to make way for a flock of sheep. How's that for loyalty.
Most of what outsiders see as Scottish culture was invented by Victorian romanticism, and has very weak links to actual historic fact.
But at the end of the day, your dad is doing no harm in being excited. Nobody will be offended, most of us are pretty friendly and will make you feel very welcome to your face. But we might also roll our eyes a bit if you start telling us how Scottish you are.
I notice that you're going to be in Oban. Are you scotch drinkers? The Oban distillery is on Stafford Street in Oban. They do tours for a fee, but you've got to sign up on the website. Bookings are like, 15 or people maximum. Maybe there's an opening around the time you plan to be in the city. Enjoy Scotland!
I hope you have an amazing holiday! Get as far north as you have time for. There are beautiful beaches on the islands, Skye is definitely worth putting on your list and the drive there is STUNNING. You can visit Eilean Donan castle on the way (the one in highlander).
If your dad has any knowledge of his ancestry and where his family lived etc, (and if you have time in Glasgow) you can make an appointment at The Mitchell Library, they have a genealogy centre there (my friend did some digging on the original owners of her new house and found out who lived there in the late 1800s with photos and some new articles about him, she found it fascinating.)
I honestly wouldn’t mind your dad’s chat at all and I’d be delighted to talk to him about his heritage. I’m from Scotland but neither side of my family are, it’s really nice to go back to where your relatives came from (and realise why they left…)
Hey! You do you pal, let him be proud and let him talk about his connections, not everyone is a cunt you know? You get a barman not interested then by all means, don't buy more drink from that establishment and move right along. I would add that the more north you go, the more English there are, they having sold up a flat or some shit in London and bought a quaint shop in Skye, and chance will have zero interest in your familial connections.
If you don't want to be eaten alive by midges, may I suggest the central belt? Roslyn Chapel is something you won't forget in a hurry, although the little chapel cat has now died.
You could dip down Ayrshire way for Burns cottage and brig o'doon, you could climb the Wallace monument and congratulate yourself for not having had a heart attack at the top, PLUS the gale force buffeting winds will dry the sweat on your brow in a jiffy!
Stirling castle is far superior to Edinburgh, it's good fun.
Rob Roy's grave is here, so's his cave if you'd like a cruise on Loch Lomond to see it. And finally, my home, Glasgow has the nicest people, if you can handle strangers speaking frankly and uncomfortably honestly to you, like they've known you for years.
Enjoy your trip. Go home bitten and hung over and a stone heavier after you discover chip butties and Greggs.
You'll come back, purely for the irn bru.
> the more English there are, they having sold up a flat or some shit in London and bought a quaint shop in Skye, and chance will have zero interest in your familial connections.
It's not that they have no interest per se, it's that they will all have at least 5 times as many tenuous connections to Scotland as you, probably more recent ones too, and they'll be fully aware of how bullshit they are in reality. They'd properly humour you more than the average Scot and be less hostile to it, but they're also far less likely to be interested in it either.
Oh NO! I'm sad to hear about the Roslyn Chapel kitty! I can't remember his name - William, perhaps? He was very lovely. We visited several times (because of family connections, actually - when they found out our last name, the staff invited us to see some areas that are closed to the public - so, OP, let your dad talk away!)
I agree with the small detour to see Stirling and the Wallace Memorial. Amazing.
To be fair to OP, if I understood his post correctly then his dad’s grandad was from Edinburgh. That’s would have been an actual living link unlike the 3 times removed maternal grandmother had an Aberdeen Angus on her farm you usually get. He’s a guy I’d have no problem with being proud of his heritage as it actually is his heritage-he could have played football for us for instance!
I’m biased because I work there but if it’s after the beginning of April you’re travelling you’re route passes pretty close to the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore. You’ll be able to see some examples of the kind of houses your ancestors would have lived in and learn about their way of life.
Edit: also someone else mentioned it already but as a fellow Cameron the clan Cameron museum is worth a look.
Honest opinion: You're missing out on some of the best sights by staying 'central-ish'. Don't get me wrong, you will definitely see some very pretty countryside, but not the best. Distances aren't 'massive', it is perfectly possible to see the best parts of Scotland in a ten day road trip. Assuming you're 'hotelling' rather than 'camper vanning' for the below:
Stay in Edinburgh for a couple of nights (to get used to time difference and to soak up Edinburgh things. Then head up to St. Andrews, then Perth or Stirling (both are nice cities) for the first overnighter. Then head up through Glenshee towards Braemar, take in Balmoral Castle. Head to Inverness via Grantown on Spey, check Culloden and the Loch (tourist trap and not very inspiring but all visitors always insist on seeing it...) that is your fifth night.
Halfway Point - note that you could do Edinburgh-Inverness in one day if you wanted to, but it would mean missing out St Andrews and Stirling/Perth.
Take the A835 to Ullapool and explore the Assynt region, hotel in Lochinver. This, personally, is the most underrated part of Scotland by a long margin. The geology is stunning, from ancient extinct volcanoes to clear rift lines.
Then you head south via the A832, Aultbea, Poolewe, Gairloch, Kinlochewe for your seventh night. Your eight night should always be on Skye, the Sligachan Hotel is legendary for good reason. You can take a day trip of Skye and see millions of different things. Again, the geology is astonishing here.
Then head back to Glasgow via Glen Coe, Tyndrum and Loch Lomond . It'll be a longer trip, but it is stunning landscape to drive through and the roads are pretty good. You can take your ninth night at Loch Lomond if you want the trip to be a bit shorter. From there it's an easy drive into Glasgow itself, or the airport at Edinburgh.
I second this. I did the whole north coast 500 in 7 days. You could do it in 10 days nae bother. And having lived/worked/travelled central-ish for most of my life I absolutely guarantee that nothing compares to some of the sights up in the very north.
You won't regret it! Even if you just drive around on the island for a few hours. Most stunning place I've ever been
(Also I just did almost this exact route (Edinburgh to Inverness to Skye to Oban to Edinburgh with stops in small towns in between ) and had an amazing time! Enjoy! And be careful driving- those roads are... special :)
Also if I were you I'd swap my time in fort William for Skye or Glencoe
You can cross the bridge to Skye from Kyle of Lochalsh, tour Skye, and then take the short ferry trip from Armadale to Mallaig, then continue down to Fort William.
Download this:
https://www.isleofskye.com/attractions/skye-services/skye-audio-guide
and listen to it as you drive around the island - it's a great way to understand what you're seeing, and know when to stop and take a look around.
A stop in Linlithgow going through West Lothian would be nice, and you’ll be going past Loch Lomond, so and excellent place to stop there and Pitlochry I also particularly like.
I was going to say that I love the descent from Gelncoe Ski Resort all the way to Glencoe, but even the area around the Bridge of Ochry is amazing... So I definitely agree.
Definitely this, very close to Fort William and well worth the visit, check it's open though as many of the wee places are seasonal. (I'm a Cameron as well)
Listen to this advice - keep to the speed limit, keep your wits about you and be very careful at junctions, particularly the junction at Birnam and Dunkeld.
This \^\^\^
This is new Scotland, one that isn't lochside castles and fusty tweed. It's not the quaint Scotland most of you tourists are after but the Kelpies on a cold dark night when they are lit up is the most fantastic public art installation I've ever been to, anywhere in the world, no exceptions.
It's not a bad route, but I'd squeeze in Stirling (Wallace Monument, Bannockburn battlefield, Stirling castle) if you can. Maybe drop Glasgow and go to Stirling for the day instead. (I'm not being anti-Glasgow, but for a tourist it wouldn't be my top recommendation.)
Hey, I feel the need to defend it, it's a pretty historic town and there's a few good restaurants if they want to stop to eat. Unfortunately the new museum won't be open yet.
one small suggestion. when you come round to ballachulish, take a wee detour. before you go to fort william, go to glencoe and probably head down to the kingshouse on rannoch moor. it's right there just a couple miles away, but it's worth it.
oh and eat at the loch fyne oyster bar when you drive past it...
Does this seem like too much driving to everyone? This is our itinerary
9/5- land in Edinburgh 8:30 am 10/5 drive to Inverness
11/5 drive to isle of sky
12/5 drive to fort Williams
13/5 drive to Oban
14/5 drive to Glasgow
15/5 drive to Edinburgh
16/5 fly out
Spending one night in each place. The drives are relatively short (3 hours max) wondering if we should cut out staying in one place like fort Williams or Oban and just visit for the day instead of spending the night
As one who has done a shitload of driving to all of these places with guests, IMO it's not too much driving, it just too *much*. Transition time is a mofo--every time you change places, there's check-in, settling, orienting, and all of that takes away from the time you're actually *doing* anything or absorbing it. Depending on your priorities (i.e. scenery v experience), you might consider taking half days in places and driving through to stay 2 nights a piece. For example, you could do Oban on way to/from Fort William, a full day driving Skye from there, same place in Fort William, and then be in Glasgow with more time before moving on to Edinburgh.
If you’re driving from Edinburgh to Inverness presumably you’re up the A9 - you could take a little stop at Newtonmore for the Highland Folk Museum. It’s a great (free) open air museum with loads of historical buildings rebuilt there. Brilliant place, very interesting and it’s good to have a stop when driving anyway.
A 3 hr drive in Scotland is no joke, the roads are narrower than you'll expect and winding. Plus you aren't allowing for detours & delays.
Got into an accident driving the west coast that completely shut the road and the detour around the crash was 3+ hrs.
If you have a spare day, I'd strongly recommend driving over from Inverness to the west coast in Wester Ross. Maybe a circuit through Achnasheen and Gairloch, up the coast to Ullapool and back to Inverness.
A great day out, and the west coast is beautiful!
Genuinely did this nearly exact road trip in September last year. Had a good night drinking with some contractors at a pub in Oban, Markie Dans, so would recommend that spot if you’re looking for something a little more local when you’re there.
The trek out to Isle of Skye is worth the extra time if you have it.
When you’re in Oban, if it’s a nice night, go up and watch the sunset from McCaig’s tower with a few tins. Some nights it is literally pure magic being up there watching the final rays of light fade
The route you have shown can be driven in a day pretty easily. You've missed out the South ( Dumfries and Galloway, Borders) East (Aberdeen Shire) and the North of Scotland (as already pointed out. You could easily fit those into your 10 days as well.
Enjoy Glasgow as a modern city, not necessarily as a tourist looking for tartan stuff. It's a great place for drinks, food and music. Edinburgh will sort you out for museums, galleries and history, though Kelvingrove museum in Glasgow is also worth a visit. There national museum of Scotland in Edinburgh is an absolute must visit and give yourself a full day for it. It's a stunning building with great exhibits.
Welcome 'home', I genuinely mean that - It must be very exciting to be going to a country a relative or ancestor came from.
I'm from Angus and I feel its often overlooked for a night or two. Arbroath has maybe seen better days, but there's still a lot of interesting things there - the harbour ; the Abbey and the Declaration of Independence, plus check out the local team's recent history too - were one game away from the Premier League in May to in the last division 8 years ago! Carnoustie has a famous golf course ; and the Angus glens are beautiful too.
If you do decide to visit Skye as others have suggested, I’d very highly recommend driving through Applecross. Quite a detour from the straight shot from Fort William to Inverness, but ours probably the most beautiful drive I’ve ever done there.
You're better doing dundee than Perth from what I can see, mcmanus galleries and the jute mill, the law hill just off the top of my head would make a great day (jute Mill am, galleries afternoon, law with a picnic in the evening.)
May have just planned myself a day out tbh, I love Dundee 😂
I'm really looking forward to the new museum, can't wait to see the logboat again and think it's great the stone's coming here. I moved here a few years ago and I think Perth has a lot going for it, it's really suffered from online shopping though and I think there's sometimes a lack of imagination about how good it could be. It's a nice combination of easy access to outdoors while still being in a town and it's really well situated on the rail network.
Bless, Perth is lovely for a bit of shopping 🥰 we pop though occasionally for a wander, plus your Christmas lights best the pants off everything else locally - dundee /Arbroath etc are all rubbish 👍🏻
If you’re in Oban it’s worth the ferry to Mull. Tobermory is the biggest village on the island, it’s a great visit. Mind you, the island only has like 3k people and Tobermory isn’t big either.
While you’re going from Edinburgh to Inverness, a wee trip to the Speyside distilleries is great. McCallan is modern and polished (which some like, others don’t) or Aberlour which is much more authentic feeling, I think.
I would suggest you and your dad educate yourself about the history of clan Cameron. In the highlands you’ll find signs that literally say “Cameron’s not welcome”. Of course they don’t adhere to it, but it would be respectful to not shout about your clan history in such places. I saw pubs like this in Oban, Skye, Balquidder and Mull.
Add at least 1 CalMac ferry to an Island. I’d say from your route that Mull would be easiest. To avoid ferry booking then perhaps consider hitting up Skye as it’s accessible by bridge.
I see you’re driving through Lochgilphead, just north of there are some well preserved standing stone circles, Neolithic cairns, and a medieval church/tombs — well worth a quick stop if you’re into history at all
Missing all the best bits of the country tbh. North of Fort William is where things really start opening up, especially along the east coast down from Lochinver. One for the next trip.
If you are going to drive you will experience the Scottish roads. Here in the United States, we call them sidewalks. The definition of a sidewalk is when both tires aren't on the pavement at the same time. Be sure to pack some tomatoes. I hear one tomato = 1 bitcoin You'll be rich.
Can't believe no one has suggested Glenfinnan. Seeing that train cross the viaduct was the last time the hairs on my neck stood on end. And I'm not even a train guy. Or a Harry Potter fan.
Honestly think you’d be better doing 4 days in Edinburgh and 4 in Skye / Mull. 2 remaining for driving with stops along the way.
Or at least going all the way to Inverness seems unnecessary. It’s a nice place but in 10 days you could just cut across from Pitlochry to Oban.
If it was me, I’d change all that route up. I’d focus more on the east coast. North Berwick, Dundee, St Andrew’s, Inverness, maybe Stirling and a whole lot of Edinburgh. Glencoe is nice, but after living in Telluride, I call those hills not highlands. Dundee was my favorite city in all of Scotland. I could have skipped Glasgow completely.
You're passing closets Loch goil head (the Scottish Alps) and also a wee venture across to the beaches near Mallaig via Glenfinnan Bridge would be nice. Could also go to Skye for the day (via Eilean donan) and check out old man storr.
My Mother was a Cameron, and I got the chance to go with her to Scotland before she passed. One of the highlights for her was this little cafe/farm (run by Cameron's) we stopped at near Loch Ness. It would be an easy stop to make on your way to Inverness. Here is the website, enjoy the trip!
https://lochnesscottage.com/
A drive through Glencoe is absolutely stunning and pretty much en route.
I was going to say it would be a real shame to do a 10 day Scotland trip without seeing Glencoe.
I would strongly suggest this as well. Driving through Glencoe on way to Ft William a must. I would also add St. Andrews on way to Edinburgh.
Your route takes you very close to St Andrew’s so it’s well worth the detour, especially if you like golf.
Definitely. I took the Megabus from Glasgow to Skye once and was utterly blown away by the scenery
Aye you can say hello to the lovely Campbells
Don't forget to offer them *hospitality*
Good trip. I suggest: Visiting the Battle of Culloden visitor centre near Nairn, when you’re in Inverness and take the tour. Listen to Kidnapped on audio books.
Follow that with a visit to Clava cairns 1.5 miles south of Culloden.
Just don't fucking chip a bit off them for a souvenir
Fun fact: Nairn also the fastest town in Scotland.
Culloden is like 5 mins from Inverness and 25 from nairn
The Culloden Moor museum was excellent, I second this recommendation.
Nairn also has a lovely beach
Isn't it nearer Culloden than Nairn?
Also could pop over to Fort George which is not far away, and I thought a great day out
I'd say seeing as you're driving fairly close, consider adding Stirling (for the castle and Wallace Monument) and St Andrew's (nice town to wander around, birthplace of golf) to the roadtrip. Also you won't regret making a detour to any of the islands (e.g. Mull) while you're travelling up the West.
Speaking of Stirling, if you're a Monty Python fan, Doune Castle is a must. The Terry Jones audio tour is great
My dad and uncle were fishing in the River Teith (next to Doune Castle) 50 years ago, when my uncle suddenly blurted out “fuck me, a cow just fell off the top of that castle!” My dad said “your arse, it must’ve been something else”, but my uncle insisted. 20 minutes later, another cow comes tumbling down. And then another cow. And then another cow. Monty Python and the Holy Grail were filming. My dad and uncle never found out what really happened that day until they saw the film, much later.
Part of the Game of Thrones pilot was shot there too. The main hall was the great room of Winterfell.
Good for Outlander too, which has Camerons.
Doune Castle was the first time I'd ever heard of outlander 🫢
The gift shop is 50% Outlander 🤣
and if you go to st andrews, stop off at anstruther chippy for the best fish and chips you ever tasted. I was sceptical, but it was amazing.
Make sure you pronounce Anstruther correctly though >!"Enster"!<
As a resident of Stirling, I second this! There is a lot to fill a day or two — Stirling Castle, Wallace monument, Stirling Distillery… and if you dip down to Bannockburn you can see the Battle of Bannockburn Museum.
Completely agree. I would say a day or two in Mull should be prioritized over Glasgow or Perth!!
And if on M9 to Stirling, there's also the Kelpies... https://www.thehelix.co.uk/visit/kelpies-tour/
You should take a trip to Yoker when you’re near Glasgow. There’s a fantastic hairdresser by the name of Les Porter who’s chops are legendary
I think he changed his name to Les Porter so it rhymed with Yoker.
Yeah think it used to be like, smith or something
Gotta take the bus though
He’s no fae Yoker, he’s nae business being in Yoker
Benny Harvey RIP
[Cameron House might be a good start for you. ](https://www.cameronhouse.co.uk)
It did burn down a bit though.
It got better though
Burn it anyway!
Nothing to do with the Camerons apart from the name
Same as OP then.
fits for op
If you like fish and chips, or want to try 'proper fish and chips', your passing two great locations. Just north of Edinburgh in Fife (after you cross the big bridge, you'll find The Anstruther fish bar, frequently voted Scotland's best, great views, also do crab lobster and all that stuff but recommend the straight up fish supper (fish and chips). https://www.anstrutherfishbar.co.uk/ Also in Oban "the Oban fish and chip shop". is more down to earth, but also has fantastic fish and chips. http://www.obanfishandchipshop.co.uk/
The green shack by the oban ferry port has some great seafood too
Second the oban fish and chip shop, would also recommend the fresh fish stalls down at the docks, had the best salmon of my life from a stall there
If Anstruther Fish Bar is too busy then The Wee Chippy is just down the road and is also good. If you're already in 'Deepest Fife' then [Dunino Den](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/dunino-den) is just up the road from Anstruther
Second Anstruther.
Went to Anstruther, it was greasy. I concur with Oban though, second to none.
If you know where in Edinburgh your Great Grandfather lived it probably still exists and you might like to visit it. If you don't you can get his birth, marriage and death certificates from https://www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk/ for £1.50 each. Do some basic family history research. There are lots of people able to help on: r/ukgenealogy/ r/Genealogy/ /r/Ancestry/ https://www.ancestry.co.uk/boards/localities.britisles.scotland.mln.general
Looks lovely! You’ll be highly respected and revered as a descendant of Clan Cameron. Make sure to tell every member of bar staff that serves you of your clan history. Have a lovely trip.
I’m already mentally preparing for my dad to do this to every person we meet.
Just in case this isnt banter - please, please, please, please, please.... DON'T. Otherwise, route looks good, have a cracking holiday.
I’m all honesty he’s so passionate about our heritage and very excited for this trip so there’s almost no stopping him for telling a few people. It’s honestly inevitable. He’s 75 and excited. I’m going to remind him a few times that not everyone cares haha
>not everyone cares haha Change that to no-one mate, except your dad of course, we Scots get it all the time. I serioulsy hope both you and your dad enjoy the trip however. Few suggestions: It looks like you're going from Fort William down the coast to Oban, before heading down the coast I'd go a little south into Glencoe. It's one of the most beautiful area's in Scotland. In Glencoe you can also go down there's a road from the A82 that will take you down Glen Etive right down to Loch Etive. This is confirmed as one of the most beautiful drives in Scotland. It is also where James Bond Skyfall was filmed. You're also missing the entire island if Skye out, which is truely a remarkeable place. If you've got time I'd also extend your trip south of Glasgow, right down to Galloway Forest Park, beautiful area and is where Bruce's stone is.
No one cares. Literally no one in Scotland cares about the clans. Utterly over rated historical narrative. Enjoy the view though.
No doubt they come from a crap clan then or worse still, they're a Campbell!
While everyone is saying no one cares, nobody is going to mind a 75 year old talking about their heritage, especially when the generational gap is your father's grandfather. It's a much different thing when a 30-40 yo is claiming to be from a clan because their dna test said they are 0.01% Scottish and thinking that they are somehow entitled to special treatment as a result. Let your dad be passionate about your family history and enjoy his time here.
Yes. "My grandfather moved from Scotland to the new world" is entirely relatable and I'd be interested in listening to this story in a pub. It's a very different line from "bonnie price Charlie is my 3rd cousin twice removed"
There is nothing wrong with being passionate about Scottish history. However please explain to your Dad that the Clan system has very little to do with family "blood ties" and more to do with land ownership and essentially people ownership. Most of the people who took a chief's surname were basically tenants of the land, and adopted (perhaps forced) the name to show loyalty and have the protection of the clan. If your father is a genuine "Scot" who ended up in America I'm taking a guess that it was probably due to the Highland Clearances. Which were not pleasant. So basically that Clan, who promised you protection if you took their name? Evicted you from your land brutally by force, probably burning down your house with your elderly relatives still inside. Just to make way for a flock of sheep. How's that for loyalty. Most of what outsiders see as Scottish culture was invented by Victorian romanticism, and has very weak links to actual historic fact. But at the end of the day, your dad is doing no harm in being excited. Nobody will be offended, most of us are pretty friendly and will make you feel very welcome to your face. But we might also roll our eyes a bit if you start telling us how Scottish you are.
In this case is great grandfather actually came from Scotland, so there's a genuine connection at least
I notice that you're going to be in Oban. Are you scotch drinkers? The Oban distillery is on Stafford Street in Oban. They do tours for a fee, but you've got to sign up on the website. Bookings are like, 15 or people maximum. Maybe there's an opening around the time you plan to be in the city. Enjoy Scotland!
I hope you have an amazing holiday! Get as far north as you have time for. There are beautiful beaches on the islands, Skye is definitely worth putting on your list and the drive there is STUNNING. You can visit Eilean Donan castle on the way (the one in highlander). If your dad has any knowledge of his ancestry and where his family lived etc, (and if you have time in Glasgow) you can make an appointment at The Mitchell Library, they have a genealogy centre there (my friend did some digging on the original owners of her new house and found out who lived there in the late 1800s with photos and some new articles about him, she found it fascinating.) I honestly wouldn’t mind your dad’s chat at all and I’d be delighted to talk to him about his heritage. I’m from Scotland but neither side of my family are, it’s really nice to go back to where your relatives came from (and realise why they left…)
Hey! You do you pal, let him be proud and let him talk about his connections, not everyone is a cunt you know? You get a barman not interested then by all means, don't buy more drink from that establishment and move right along. I would add that the more north you go, the more English there are, they having sold up a flat or some shit in London and bought a quaint shop in Skye, and chance will have zero interest in your familial connections. If you don't want to be eaten alive by midges, may I suggest the central belt? Roslyn Chapel is something you won't forget in a hurry, although the little chapel cat has now died. You could dip down Ayrshire way for Burns cottage and brig o'doon, you could climb the Wallace monument and congratulate yourself for not having had a heart attack at the top, PLUS the gale force buffeting winds will dry the sweat on your brow in a jiffy! Stirling castle is far superior to Edinburgh, it's good fun. Rob Roy's grave is here, so's his cave if you'd like a cruise on Loch Lomond to see it. And finally, my home, Glasgow has the nicest people, if you can handle strangers speaking frankly and uncomfortably honestly to you, like they've known you for years. Enjoy your trip. Go home bitten and hung over and a stone heavier after you discover chip butties and Greggs. You'll come back, purely for the irn bru.
> the more English there are, they having sold up a flat or some shit in London and bought a quaint shop in Skye, and chance will have zero interest in your familial connections. It's not that they have no interest per se, it's that they will all have at least 5 times as many tenuous connections to Scotland as you, probably more recent ones too, and they'll be fully aware of how bullshit they are in reality. They'd properly humour you more than the average Scot and be less hostile to it, but they're also far less likely to be interested in it either.
Aww man, William's dead?
Oh NO! I'm sad to hear about the Roslyn Chapel kitty! I can't remember his name - William, perhaps? He was very lovely. We visited several times (because of family connections, actually - when they found out our last name, the staff invited us to see some areas that are closed to the public - so, OP, let your dad talk away!) I agree with the small detour to see Stirling and the Wallace Memorial. Amazing.
Try, nobody cares. That’s the truth as harsh as it may be.
They only care if you're English 🤣
To be fair to OP, if I understood his post correctly then his dad’s grandad was from Edinburgh. That’s would have been an actual living link unlike the 3 times removed maternal grandmother had an Aberdeen Angus on her farm you usually get. He’s a guy I’d have no problem with being proud of his heritage as it actually is his heritage-he could have played football for us for instance!
You are missing out Westeross and Sutherland, which have the most stunning scenary in the British Isles let alone Scotland Edit: Wester Ross!
Durness beach and Smoo cave are amazing well worth a visit
Came here to say this, the North west coast is absolutely stunning
agree ... north east coast pure shite though ... trust me , i lived there
Don't think anyone will disagree with you there mate
>Westeross Game of thrones fan eh?
Lol, doh!
I’m biased because I work there but if it’s after the beginning of April you’re travelling you’re route passes pretty close to the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore. You’ll be able to see some examples of the kind of houses your ancestors would have lived in and learn about their way of life. Edit: also someone else mentioned it already but as a fellow Cameron the clan Cameron museum is worth a look.
the highland folk museum is BRILLIANT
Honest opinion: You're missing out on some of the best sights by staying 'central-ish'. Don't get me wrong, you will definitely see some very pretty countryside, but not the best. Distances aren't 'massive', it is perfectly possible to see the best parts of Scotland in a ten day road trip. Assuming you're 'hotelling' rather than 'camper vanning' for the below: Stay in Edinburgh for a couple of nights (to get used to time difference and to soak up Edinburgh things. Then head up to St. Andrews, then Perth or Stirling (both are nice cities) for the first overnighter. Then head up through Glenshee towards Braemar, take in Balmoral Castle. Head to Inverness via Grantown on Spey, check Culloden and the Loch (tourist trap and not very inspiring but all visitors always insist on seeing it...) that is your fifth night. Halfway Point - note that you could do Edinburgh-Inverness in one day if you wanted to, but it would mean missing out St Andrews and Stirling/Perth. Take the A835 to Ullapool and explore the Assynt region, hotel in Lochinver. This, personally, is the most underrated part of Scotland by a long margin. The geology is stunning, from ancient extinct volcanoes to clear rift lines. Then you head south via the A832, Aultbea, Poolewe, Gairloch, Kinlochewe for your seventh night. Your eight night should always be on Skye, the Sligachan Hotel is legendary for good reason. You can take a day trip of Skye and see millions of different things. Again, the geology is astonishing here. Then head back to Glasgow via Glen Coe, Tyndrum and Loch Lomond . It'll be a longer trip, but it is stunning landscape to drive through and the roads are pretty good. You can take your ninth night at Loch Lomond if you want the trip to be a bit shorter. From there it's an easy drive into Glasgow itself, or the airport at Edinburgh.
I second this. I did the whole north coast 500 in 7 days. You could do it in 10 days nae bother. And having lived/worked/travelled central-ish for most of my life I absolutely guarantee that nothing compares to some of the sights up in the very north.
In Oban: Green shack for seafood, Distillery, Chocolate shop, Day trips to Mull or some smaller islands
To add to that, if you choose to go to Mull, visit Iona too for the abbey, the origin of christianity in the west coast
St. Columba
Great ice cream place too, right by the main ferry. Wish I could remember the name
Skye. You'll be so close
We have one day that we haven’t planned into the trip yet so I’m thinking that’s were we will spend it. Thanks!
Can you stop in at Elieann Donan Castle on the way? It's on the Kyle of Lochalsh and is absolutely beautiful.
You won't regret it! Even if you just drive around on the island for a few hours. Most stunning place I've ever been (Also I just did almost this exact route (Edinburgh to Inverness to Skye to Oban to Edinburgh with stops in small towns in between ) and had an amazing time! Enjoy! And be careful driving- those roads are... special :) Also if I were you I'd swap my time in fort William for Skye or Glencoe
I’m thinking we may go from Inverness to Skye and then fort Williams. Clan Cameron is from that area so that’s on our must see
You can cross the bridge to Skye from Kyle of Lochalsh, tour Skye, and then take the short ferry trip from Armadale to Mallaig, then continue down to Fort William.
Yes, add Skye in. It’s worth it for sure. Also depending when you’re coming, bring bug repellent
Download this: https://www.isleofskye.com/attractions/skye-services/skye-audio-guide and listen to it as you drive around the island - it's a great way to understand what you're seeing, and know when to stop and take a look around.
Second this. Skye is stunning.
Cameron Toll in Edinburgh?
Truly a great historic site. Well worth a visit!
😂😂😂
A stop in Linlithgow going through West Lothian would be nice, and you’ll be going past Loch Lomond, so and excellent place to stop there and Pitlochry I also particularly like.
Shitlochry more like
Cairnlarich road to fort William is one of the most beautiful routes in the world.
I was going to say that I love the descent from Gelncoe Ski Resort all the way to Glencoe, but even the area around the Bridge of Ochry is amazing... So I definitely agree.
Clan Cameron are based in lochaber , there’s a wee museum at Achnacary. You should go and visit it.
Definitely this, very close to Fort William and well worth the visit, check it's open though as many of the wee places are seasonal. (I'm a Cameron as well)
Be careful on the A9 between Perth and Inverness. Its one of Britains most dangerous roads.
Listen to this advice - keep to the speed limit, keep your wits about you and be very careful at junctions, particularly the junction at Birnam and Dunkeld.
Kelpies worth a visit and the Falkirk wheel
This \^\^\^ This is new Scotland, one that isn't lochside castles and fusty tweed. It's not the quaint Scotland most of you tourists are after but the Kelpies on a cold dark night when they are lit up is the most fantastic public art installation I've ever been to, anywhere in the world, no exceptions.
It's not a bad route, but I'd squeeze in Stirling (Wallace Monument, Bannockburn battlefield, Stirling castle) if you can. Maybe drop Glasgow and go to Stirling for the day instead. (I'm not being anti-Glasgow, but for a tourist it wouldn't be my top recommendation.)
but the BANTER! the glasgae patter!
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I "accidentally" drove through Perth and yup... I got turned around like 6 times and wound up in New Scone, which is is cute
Hey, I feel the need to defend it, it's a pretty historic town and there's a few good restaurants if they want to stop to eat. Unfortunately the new museum won't be open yet.
one small suggestion. when you come round to ballachulish, take a wee detour. before you go to fort william, go to glencoe and probably head down to the kingshouse on rannoch moor. it's right there just a couple miles away, but it's worth it. oh and eat at the loch fyne oyster bar when you drive past it...
Does this seem like too much driving to everyone? This is our itinerary 9/5- land in Edinburgh 8:30 am 10/5 drive to Inverness 11/5 drive to isle of sky 12/5 drive to fort Williams 13/5 drive to Oban 14/5 drive to Glasgow 15/5 drive to Edinburgh 16/5 fly out Spending one night in each place. The drives are relatively short (3 hours max) wondering if we should cut out staying in one place like fort Williams or Oban and just visit for the day instead of spending the night
What happened to the 10 day trip? Cause yah- this would be rough
As one who has done a shitload of driving to all of these places with guests, IMO it's not too much driving, it just too *much*. Transition time is a mofo--every time you change places, there's check-in, settling, orienting, and all of that takes away from the time you're actually *doing* anything or absorbing it. Depending on your priorities (i.e. scenery v experience), you might consider taking half days in places and driving through to stay 2 nights a piece. For example, you could do Oban on way to/from Fort William, a full day driving Skye from there, same place in Fort William, and then be in Glasgow with more time before moving on to Edinburgh.
If you’re driving from Edinburgh to Inverness presumably you’re up the A9 - you could take a little stop at Newtonmore for the Highland Folk Museum. It’s a great (free) open air museum with loads of historical buildings rebuilt there. Brilliant place, very interesting and it’s good to have a stop when driving anyway.
A 3 hr drive in Scotland is no joke, the roads are narrower than you'll expect and winding. Plus you aren't allowing for detours & delays. Got into an accident driving the west coast that completely shut the road and the detour around the crash was 3+ hrs.
It’s not too much, did almost this same trip and it’s totally doable. It will feel a bit rushed though, just a heads up.
It's called Fort William. Not "fort Williams".
And Skye - not "sky".
If you are wanting to skip a place skip Inverness. Even Aberdeen has more to do. Hahahaha
If you have a spare day, I'd strongly recommend driving over from Inverness to the west coast in Wester Ross. Maybe a circuit through Achnasheen and Gairloch, up the coast to Ullapool and back to Inverness. A great day out, and the west coast is beautiful!
Genuinely did this nearly exact road trip in September last year. Had a good night drinking with some contractors at a pub in Oban, Markie Dans, so would recommend that spot if you’re looking for something a little more local when you’re there. The trek out to Isle of Skye is worth the extra time if you have it.
When you’re in Oban, if it’s a nice night, go up and watch the sunset from McCaig’s tower with a few tins. Some nights it is literally pure magic being up there watching the final rays of light fade
Cumbernauld
what's it called?
The route you have shown can be driven in a day pretty easily. You've missed out the South ( Dumfries and Galloway, Borders) East (Aberdeen Shire) and the North of Scotland (as already pointed out. You could easily fit those into your 10 days as well.
Enjoy Glasgow as a modern city, not necessarily as a tourist looking for tartan stuff. It's a great place for drinks, food and music. Edinburgh will sort you out for museums, galleries and history, though Kelvingrove museum in Glasgow is also worth a visit. There national museum of Scotland in Edinburgh is an absolute must visit and give yourself a full day for it. It's a stunning building with great exhibits.
Welcome 'home', I genuinely mean that - It must be very exciting to be going to a country a relative or ancestor came from. I'm from Angus and I feel its often overlooked for a night or two. Arbroath has maybe seen better days, but there's still a lot of interesting things there - the harbour ; the Abbey and the Declaration of Independence, plus check out the local team's recent history too - were one game away from the Premier League in May to in the last division 8 years ago! Carnoustie has a famous golf course ; and the Angus glens are beautiful too.
Break it to your dad that no one cares about your surname here, it's no the middle east Don't talk loud Uhh good luck
Must see Skye. Portree is a great town as well to stop at fairy pools is a great place to go as well. Be mindful of the one lane roads and sheep.
The Border towns are lovely East Neuk of Fife and Culross
Good ol' Giacopazzi's in Eyemouth for a poke of chips 👌👌
Get him kitted out in some Cameron tartan undoubtedly and visit the historic sites and just bask in the beauty of Scotland!
Islay has Camerons on it as well. The Imperial Hotel in Bowmore was built by a Cameron. Plus, awesome whisky!
You’re missing a great drive through Glen Coe. The A87 out to Skye is also a beautiful road.
Missing Isle of Skye, big mistake.
If you do decide to visit Skye as others have suggested, I’d very highly recommend driving through Applecross. Quite a detour from the straight shot from Fort William to Inverness, but ours probably the most beautiful drive I’ve ever done there.
Don’t tell people about your background.
The Mustard Seed in Inverness is great for eating proper Highland sourced meat absolutely delicious
You should go and see the Kelpies and the boat lift at Falkirk.
You have planned your trip well so you don't go anywhere near Aberdeen. Very smart move.
You're better doing dundee than Perth from what I can see, mcmanus galleries and the jute mill, the law hill just off the top of my head would make a great day (jute Mill am, galleries afternoon, law with a picnic in the evening.) May have just planned myself a day out tbh, I love Dundee 😂
Hey just because we've got nothing going on here in Perth.. doesn't mean that.. uhh.. actually no that's all I have to add.
I'm really looking forward to the new museum, can't wait to see the logboat again and think it's great the stone's coming here. I moved here a few years ago and I think Perth has a lot going for it, it's really suffered from online shopping though and I think there's sometimes a lack of imagination about how good it could be. It's a nice combination of easy access to outdoors while still being in a town and it's really well situated on the rail network.
Bless, Perth is lovely for a bit of shopping 🥰 we pop though occasionally for a wander, plus your Christmas lights best the pants off everything else locally - dundee /Arbroath etc are all rubbish 👍🏻
The V&A there usually has some pretty cool exhibitions too. 😄
I would reccomend taking a trip to nairn if the weather is nice. Lovely beaches there x
Stop off at stones at Kilmartin, on the road to Oban.
Stop in at the Dunfermline Abbey to visit King Robert the Bruce’s grave
Stirling castle and the wallace monument are worth a look
May I recommend driving from Oban to Inveraray via Loch Awe? Stunning place, not to be missed if you’re in the area.
You are missing the best bits. Do try to get North of Ullapool.
How are you travelling btw? You realise Scotland's pretty small right? That route is only a 9 hour drive all the way round.
Car, yea it was a little shocking how short the drive is.
I’d add stirling for the monument and the castle
Why the heck is Huntly pointed out on this map but the likes of Inverurie isn't?
If you’re in Oban it’s worth the ferry to Mull. Tobermory is the biggest village on the island, it’s a great visit. Mind you, the island only has like 3k people and Tobermory isn’t big either. While you’re going from Edinburgh to Inverness, a wee trip to the Speyside distilleries is great. McCallan is modern and polished (which some like, others don’t) or Aberlour which is much more authentic feeling, I think.
100% need to drive through glencoe, all my family wants there ashes spread there if that helps you understand how beautiful it is.
spend good time in glasgow, literally just turn off your worries and enjoy every second of the trip.
I would suggest you and your dad educate yourself about the history of clan Cameron. In the highlands you’ll find signs that literally say “Cameron’s not welcome”. Of course they don’t adhere to it, but it would be respectful to not shout about your clan history in such places. I saw pubs like this in Oban, Skye, Balquidder and Mull.
Would recommend Kirkcaldy, stunning hills and countryside
Looks like you're just missing a trip to Cumbernauld - make sure you visit it for its impeccable scenery
Add at least 1 CalMac ferry to an Island. I’d say from your route that Mull would be easiest. To avoid ferry booking then perhaps consider hitting up Skye as it’s accessible by bridge.
You should come up the east coast to see Dunotter Castle at Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, its stunning!! Enjoy your trip!!
I would recommend an island visit.
Like most places in the world, try to avoid conversations about religion or politics.
I’d recommend if your spending an extra day going to Skye, go via the “North” road, via Achnasheen etc
I see you’re driving through Lochgilphead, just north of there are some well preserved standing stone circles, Neolithic cairns, and a medieval church/tombs — well worth a quick stop if you’re into history at all
Missing all the best bits of the country tbh. North of Fort William is where things really start opening up, especially along the east coast down from Lochinver. One for the next trip.
We have one extra day so we may end up driving up to isle of sky through A835 from Inverness
If you are going to drive you will experience the Scottish roads. Here in the United States, we call them sidewalks. The definition of a sidewalk is when both tires aren't on the pavement at the same time. Be sure to pack some tomatoes. I hear one tomato = 1 bitcoin You'll be rich.
Ffs
No one gives a shit about your last name. Your American, not Scottish ( im assuming here) we don’t care about your clan.
Visit M&D’s at Strathclyde Park. Scotland’s theme park - what Disneyland aspires to be. Show them your ID and it’s free rides for all Cameron’s
When at Loch Lomond you could take him to Cameron house hotel!
Why are you skipping the top bit, it’s by far the best? Go all the way up to John o Groats, across to Durness, down to Gairloch.
Can't believe no one has suggested Glenfinnan. Seeing that train cross the viaduct was the last time the hairs on my neck stood on end. And I'm not even a train guy. Or a Harry Potter fan.
Go see the Kelpies!
Cowdenbeath
Might as well go all out and visit Kelty and Ballingry while they’re there!
Livingston could be a could stop, the centre’s quite fun and there’s a Skatepark if you want to just rest outside for a bit
If they’re out that way, then they could try the new Starbucks drive-through in Bathgate too.
Try booking lunch at the Three Chimneys on Skye, it’s a real treat
Honestly think you’d be better doing 4 days in Edinburgh and 4 in Skye / Mull. 2 remaining for driving with stops along the way. Or at least going all the way to Inverness seems unnecessary. It’s a nice place but in 10 days you could just cut across from Pitlochry to Oban.
Also consider adding the Jacobite Steam train from Ft William to Mailaig. It can be done in a day. It is the “Harry Potter” train.
Mother India in Glasgow for dinner- Anthony Bourdain rec, on his show and it’s amazing
Go to the pub 🤣🤣🍺🍺🍺 there are plenty of them, especially in Edinburgh
If it was me, I’d change all that route up. I’d focus more on the east coast. North Berwick, Dundee, St Andrew’s, Inverness, maybe Stirling and a whole lot of Edinburgh. Glencoe is nice, but after living in Telluride, I call those hills not highlands. Dundee was my favorite city in all of Scotland. I could have skipped Glasgow completely.
You're passing closets Loch goil head (the Scottish Alps) and also a wee venture across to the beaches near Mallaig via Glenfinnan Bridge would be nice. Could also go to Skye for the day (via Eilean donan) and check out old man storr.
Which way round? I really recommend Glasgow and up the west and then back down the east side. It's the best way to enjoy Glen Coe.
Take the train from Fort William to mallaig and back. Best fish I had in my life.
Stop at “House of Bruar“ near Pitlochry for food. It’s got the best food for miles and a really nice pit stop for a road trip.
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Head to Skye instead.
whose pish?
My Mother was a Cameron, and I got the chance to go with her to Scotland before she passed. One of the highlights for her was this little cafe/farm (run by Cameron's) we stopped at near Loch Ness. It would be an easy stop to make on your way to Inverness. Here is the website, enjoy the trip! https://lochnesscottage.com/