Summer is the perfect time to get out and explore Scotland’s remarkable history, and this year families have even more reason to visit some of the country’s best loved landmarks.

Historic Scotland is offering UK residents a 20 per cent discount on admission to dozens of historic sites across the country as part of its Historic Summer campaign, making everything from medieval castles to ancient settlements more affordable throughout the school holidays.

The limited time offer runs from 26 June until 1 September and includes many of Scotland’s most iconic attractions, with several of the Highlands’ biggest visitor destinations taking part.

Among them are Fort George near Inverness, one of the finest artillery fortifications in Europe, and Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness, where centuries of Highland history meet one of Scotland’s most spectacular views.

Elsewhere across the country, visitors can explore locations including Stirling Castle, Melrose Abbey, Elgin Cathedral, Dunstaffnage Castle, Huntly Castle, Iona Abbey, Skara Brae and dozens more.

Whether it is climbing the walls of a medieval fortress, discovering ancient ruins or stepping inside buildings that have witnessed centuries of Scottish history, the campaign aims to encourage more people to rediscover the country’s extraordinary heritage.

Historic Environment Scotland says it hopes the initiative will inspire families to revisit favourite locations while also encouraging people to venture further afield and experience sites they may never have visited before.

Senior Marketing Manager Olivia Devine said:

“Summer is a wonderful time to visit our sites across Scotland, and we want as many people to enjoy them as possible.

“We hope the offer will encourage people to rediscover their local landmarks or travel somewhere they haven’t been before.

“We have such rich history at our fingertips in Scotland, and many of our sites can be found within some of the most beautiful landscapes the country has to offer.

“Historic Summer will allow people and families to make new memories in wonderful places!”

The discounted tickets must be booked online and are available in limited numbers throughout the promotion.

With many of the participating sites surrounded by stunning scenery, walking routes and nearby attractions, the offer provides another reason to spend a summer’s day discovering the stories, people and places that have shaped Scotland for generations.

For Highland visitors, Fort George and Urquhart Castle are expected to be among the most popular destinations, combining world famous history with some of the country’s most spectacular settings.

Historic Summer tickets are limited and must be booked online at historicsummer.scot

Terms and conditions apply. 

Each ticket provides general admission to one site and cannot be reused at another site. 

Historic Summer ticket holders will be asked for proof of address when they arrive at the site.