NEWS LINES…………….. NEWS LINES……………… NEWS LINES…………….. NEWS LINES……………… NEWS LINES……………….

IT’S national animal is the mythical unicorn while the sandy beaches at Ayr inspired the video for Abba’s smash hit, Fernando – Scotland is bursting with surprises waiting to be uncovered.
The latest figures from Visit Scotland show 16.5 million people enjoyed a day trip to this awe-inspiring land of deep lochs, rugged mountains and coastlines where turquoise waters lap against golden sandy beaches.
While Edinburgh Castle remains the number one visitor attraction with almost two million visitors last year, on Scotland’s west coast, you’ll find spectacular stately mansions, historic ruins and edifices in Ayrshire.
And some of the best cultural attractions in the country can be found in Glasgow.
Embracing this beautiful part of the world couldn’t be easier thanks to Swedish-owned ferry company, Stena Line’s incredible day trips to both Ayr and Glasgow.
Stena Line and Visit Scotland have put together a handy itinerary of popular places to visit, on both day trips.
- Ayr Beach: One of the best beaches in Scotland, Ayr Beach is a great spot for a picnic with a great range of fun facilities nearby including a putting green, crazy golf and children’s play area. And, with Ayr’s low green nearby there’s plenty of space to enjoy ball games with family and friends.
- Robert Burns Birthplace Museum: Robert Burns is Scotland’s National Bard and this museum starts a journey that weaves through the village of Alloway, along the poet’s path to the cottage he was born in in 1759. A day immersing yourself here will open your eyes, and ears, to an enduring hero of Scotland’s literary heritage.
- Unwind at Glasgow Botanical Gardens: Wander around 50 acres of leafy parkland in the heart of the west end at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Visit Kibble Palace, a Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic tree ferns or any of the other 11 glasshouses filled with rare orchids and a collection of begonias.
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: From the botanical gardens, take a picturesque walk along the riverside towards Kelingrove Park and this museum that is home to an incredible array of 8,000 exhibits. Discover dinosaur skeletons, Sir Roger the Elephant, and stunning works by the Dutch Old Masters, French impressionists and the Scottish Colourists.
- Glasgow mural trail: One of Glasgow’s most famous attractions is its street art. Follow the street art trail to admire the urban artwork that has enlivened walls and corners of the city centre. See standout creations by street artists including Ali Wyllie, Art Pistol and Ejek and the stunningly realistic Hand Shadow Puppets found on the Cowcaddens underpass.
To book your day trip to Scotland with Stena Line visit stenaline.co.uk.