“Scotland epitomizes romance,” says Grant Ellis in Season 29, Episode 5, of the hit US TV show The Bachelor, which airs on ABC in the United States on February 25th, and it’s true, Scotland really is the perfect place for a romantic getaway!
Magnificent Edinburgh Castle by night
The historic capital city of Edinburgh is a great place to start your romantic odyssey. Explore the ancient streets, marvel at the magnificent castle, discover the romance of Mary, Queen of Scots at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and spoil your loved one with a luxury shopping trip. There aren’t many cities in the world where the main shopping street has an uninterrupted view of a medieval castle, but Edinburgh’s Princes Street does!
Princes Street Edinburgh © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Those looking to enjoy romantic dinners for two can do no better than Edinburgh, which is bursting with fabulous restaurants, and seven of these have a prestigious Michelin Star, including Avery, which is run by American chef Rodney Wages, who owned the Michelin Star Avery in San Francisco.
A champagne lunch at Nithbank Country Estate © VisitScotland / Molly Wilders
For the ultimate romantic experience, travel north to enjoy a Bridgerton-style Regency Extravaganza at Birkhill Castle, by gracious invitation of Queen Cynthia, or start planning early for the 2026 Bridgerton Valentine’s Ball, held at the delightful Grand Café in Edinburgh each Valentine’s Day. Adorn yourself in your finest Regency ball gown (frock coat and breeches for the gentleman) and you will be transported back 200 years!
Eilean Donan Castle © VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
Extend your stay in one of Scotland’s many fabulous castles which offer accommodation, and live like a lady and lord! The Bridgerton family would have spent their summers on a country estate like those around today which offer luxury accommodation, delicious meals and a range of traditional Scottish outdoor pursuits, including hill walking, clay-pigeon shooting and wildlife watching.
Walking in the Braemar Hills © VisitScotland / Jakob Iwanicki
There are so many romantic castles to visit in Scotland, often in idyllic locations beside glittering Scottish lochs, that you will be spoilt for choice - but we can recommend the best.
Majestic Gosford House just outside of Edinburgh has played host to numerous TV and film productions including Outlander, Million Dollar American Princesses, The Amazing Race and Apple TV Buccaneers. This incredible neo-classical mansion is set on a 5,000 acre estate, and tours of both the house and grounds can be enjoyed.
Gosford House near Edinburgh
In fact, the rugged Scottish landscape is second to none and there is no better way to discover it than on an unforgettable helicopter ride. We can arrange a thrilling helicopter experience that is sure to be the adventure of a lifetime!
Traditional Highland Games should not be missed on your tour. Witness the strongest and fittest pitting themselves in age-old competitions, from toss the caber to tug-of-war, all while dressed in traditional Highland kilts! Enjoy traditional Scottish dancing and pipe bands too - a true taste of Scotland!
Tossing the caber at Ballater Highland Games © VisitScotland / David N Anderson
And talking of kilts, this must-have item of Scottish clothing should be on everyone’s shopping list on a visit to Scotland – find your family clan tartan at a specialist outfitter and arrange for your bespoke Highland wear to be made. And it’s not just kilts – all manner of clothes and interior furnishings can be produced in your chosen tartan, the ideal memento of your romantic trip to Scotland.
A romantic getaway at Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness © VisitScotland / Luigi di Pasquale
Whisky lovers will enjoy experiencing one or more of the many distilleries across Scotland, and whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or not, the Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience on Princes Street in Edinburgh is a fantastic place to visit.
The Lagavulin Distillery on the Isle of Islay © VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
For those with more time to spare, a visit to Gretna Green near the Scottish border with England is well worth it. Perhaps one of the most romantic places anywhere, the village has been a wedding destination since the mid-18th century, when young lovers fled England to escape the Marriage Act forbidding marriage without parents’ consent for those under 21 years old. Gretna Green remains one of the favourite places to tie the knot, with couples visiting the world-famous Old Blacksmith’s Shop from around the world.
The Old Blacksmith’s Shop, Gretna Green © VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
For an incredible – and amusing – insight into the secrets of male social life in the 18th century, bachelors and their partners are sure to enjoy a visit to Tarbolton Bachelors’ Club in Ayrshire. Co-founded by Robert Burns, Scotland’s most famous romantic poet, the Bachelors’ Club is a must-see for Burns fans. It was here that Burns learned to dance, became a freemason and created a men-only debating society!
Tarbolton Bachelor’s Club © VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
Scotland really is the most wonderful place for a romantic escape and if you and your partner would like to enjoy a luxury, tailor-made Scottish experience, please do contact our friendly team today.
Office address: Suite 1, Network House, Badgers Way, Oxon Business Park, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY3 5AB, England.
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