Many people in the UK are considering ‘staycations’ this year, instead of jetting off for sun drenched holidays in the Canaries or the Costa del Sol. Staying at home and taking advantage of the many interesting destinations that are within easy reach is becoming increasingly appealing as people try to save money and lessen their carbon footprints.

One destination that is proving increasingly popular is Scotland. And one of the reasons that many people like to visit Scotland is its history.

Scotland has a wealth of ancient and often bloody history. There have been many battles on Scottish soil and the country is littered with ancient castles and grand homes. During the second world war many stately homes and castles were used for troops and hospitals. Some became damaged and run down leading to their demolition. During the 1960′s it was sad to see around one large house demolished somewhere in Scotland every week.

Luckily this practice came to an end but property owners were faced with huge maintenance and repair costs. Many have now been restored into functioning homes and hotels like the magnificent Glenapp Castle hotel which was acquired by hoteliers in 1994. Extensive restoration has turned this Victorian castle into a popular and luxurious five star hotel.

Many Scottish castles are nothing more than ruins, which isn’t surprising when you consider their age and history. Castle Sween is one such ancient castle. This castle was originally built in the 11th or 12th centuries and was names after a Dane called Sueno. Robert the Bruce captured the castle in 1315.

To make the most of any visit to a Scottish castle it is useful to have some knowledge of the castle history. This will really bring your visit to life as you picture the people who lived, loved, worked and died in the castle.

I can recommend a tour of ancient Scottish castles and monuments as truly fantastic and memorable holiday experience.

When flying from Edinburgh or Glasgow I always book my Edinburgh Airport Parking or my Glasgow Airport Parking space in advance as this always gives me savings of up to 60%.