Scotland

=Scotland=

Did you know? The first evidence that people placed flowers on graves came from Bronze Age Scotland.

Brief History : Scotland has had a very turbulant history, marked with frequent bids for freedom and aggressive behavior towards their numerous enemies. This first came to a head in ancient Roman times, which would result in the construction of Hadrian's Wall. Conflict would continue into the medival era with Scotland's mulitple attempts to remove themselves from English control. During this time, such notable figures as Robert the Bruce, John Knox, Mary Queen of the Scots, and the infamous William Wallace would eventually help Scotland suceed from England. However, Scotland existing as a seperate entity was short lived, and by 1706 Scotland was reunited with England. Largely under English control for the next several centuries, Scotland finally procurred their own parliment in 1998. Did you know? John Brown & Co.Ltd, of Clydebank, Scotland built RMS Lusitania, which would become famous after she was torpedoed and sunk of the Irish coast during World War 1 while acting as a passenger liner. Her sinking would create deep rooted animosity against Germany. Notable Places to Visit

Colloden Battlefield: The sight of the final stand of the Jacobites (April 16, 1746), the battlefield and surrounding moor is now a principal tourist attraction and museum near Inverness. Scotland suffered heavy losses during this battle, and reinactments at the museum give visitors an interesting insight into the time period. Walking the battlefield however is a solum experiance; the moor is dotted with the markers of the graves of the different clans. The emotional center of the battlefield however is the massive stone cairn that was built in 1881 to commemorate the Jacobites last battle. Loch Ness: Famous for sightings of it's unknown inhabitant since the year 565, Loch Ness is the largest body of fresh water in Scotland, it holds more water than all other lakes in the United Kingodom combined. On it's north end is Inverness, a busy town and also a great place to fly into Scotland, while it's South shore houses the famous Fort Augustus abbey. The town of Drumnadrochit, located on the shores of Urquhart Bay, however is the main sight for tourists to visit with numerous musuems and centers dedicated to the loch and the Loch Ness Monster. Nearby is Urquhart Castle, the ruins of a Jacobite fort from at least 1296. The castle and bay also appear to be the home-base of "Nessie", as a majority of sightings and sonar scans have been reported from this area. Stirling Castle: A massive, largely intact castle that dates from at least 1110, Stirling Castle was built upon Castle Hill, and is surrounded by sheer cliffs on three sides. This made it difficult to be overtaken and it's history is riddled with unsuccessful attempts to conquer it, including one by Bonnie Prince Charlie.Today it is largely a tourist attraction and is also the sight of a memorial to Robert the Bruce. The castle is also the home of West Dean College Tapestry Studio's recreation of the Unicorn Tapestries. Places to Go



Carbisdale Castle: Located in Culrain, Carbisdale Castle is a beautiful hostel to stay at while visiting Scotland,Carbisdale was built in 1906 and today operates as a wonderful hotel. Open from April to October, meals start at 4.25 for a continental breakfast and go up to 11.50 for and evening meal. Fares per night vary depending on the room (assumingly).

The Snow Goose: Located in Inverness, The Snow Goose is a delightful old-time pub with authentic Scottish food. The staff is very warm and hospitible and are a wealth of knowledge on the surrounding attractions. During the warmer months there is also outdoor areas to eat. The decor is old-time Scottish. Includes a bar. Open Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm. Sundays 12 pm to 10:30 pm.

The Culture of Scotland

Haggis: The famous Scottish meal of a sheep's liver, heart and lungs in a variety of spices, Haggis is an acquired taste. Plaid: Kilts and tartan are the "Scottish colors". Each clan has their own pattern. Speaking of clans, those with the last name of Campbell, we advise you not to disclose your true name, many highlanders still hold animosity towards the Campbell clan after they turned traitors for the English. Sheep: They're everywhere, watch your driving. Oh, and those colors on their sides, they're fine, that's how farmers can tell their sheep from others come sheering time.