Craig Neil | Out About Scotland

Loch Lomond Visitor Guide

Craig Neil October 12, 20221600 Views Lochs & Rivers 20 min read

With a surface area of 27.5 square miles, Loch Lomond is Britain’s largest body of freshwater. This immense loch is situated within the beautiful Trossachs National Park, surrounded by forests, quaint villages, and soaring mountain peaks.

The loch is one of the most-visited natural attractions in Scotland due to its proximity to Glasgow. It is also a haven for thrill-seekers looking to take part in water sports as well as nature lovers who visit Loch Lomond to see golden eagles, red squirrels, otters and other iconic Scottish animals.

Uist Outer Hebrides Regions of Scotland The Hebrides

Isle of South Uist Visitor Guide

Craig Neil October 9, 20221659 Views Islands 18 min read

At 124 square miles, South Uist is the second-largest island in the Outer Hebrides, yet it’s home to less than 2,000 people.

Visitors to the island will quickly find themselves lost in a hauntingly beautiful landscape where nature thrives across mile after mile of white powder beaches to the west and thickets of purple heather to the east.

The island is also home to many of Scotland’s most iconic animals such as the elusive corncrake and sea eagle as well as red deer which roam South Uist’s windswept uplands.

Outer Hebrides Regions of Scotland The Hebrides

Isle of Barra Visitor Guide

Craig Neil October 7, 20222381 Views Islands 20 min read

The Isle of Barra is located on the southernmost point of the Outer Hebrides where it joins the Isle of Vatersay on its southern edge and faces the island of South Uist on its northern side.

At only 23 square miles in total area, Barra isn’t exactly the largest island in the Hebrides but it’s undoubtedly one of the most interesting thanks to an array of attractions that include the fabulous Traigh Mhor beach – home of the world’s only beach commercial airfield – and Kisimul Castle which is situated on a small outcrop in the middle of Castlebay harbour.

Strathclyde Regions of Scotland

Balloch Castle Country Park Visitor Guide

Craig Neil October 5, 20221327 Views Parks & Gardens 13 min read

Balloch Castle Country Park is a 200-acre public park located at the southern end of Loch Lomond.
This popular green space offers visitors easy access to the loch as well as a number of nature trails, ornamental woodland, play parks and formal gardens.

The centre of the park is home to the 19th-century Balloch Castle which is the focal point of paths that run down to the waterfront in a circular route.

Travel Tips & Advice Scotland Tourist Information

How to Prevent Tick Bites in Scotland

Craig Neil September 28, 20221392 Views 22 min read

Ticks are common parasites in Scotland and their bite is usually harmless, but care must be taken as some are infected with Lyme disease which can show symptoms for weeks, and occasionally even years after.

Lyme disease causes flu-like symptoms such as fever, severe headaches, nerve pain and dizziness, so it’s important to know what to do if you find a tick attached to your body.

Discover tick removal tips as well as ways to prevent getting bitten in this complete guide to tick bites and Lyme disease in Scotland.

Travel Tips & Advice Scotland Tourist Information

A Guide to Giant Hogweed in Scotland

Craig Neil September 26, 2022902 Views 13 min read

Giant hogweed is an unmistakable plant that grows across much of Scotland but is primarily found in the south of the country.

Although giant hogweed has attractive white flowers, the sap produced by the stems is extremely poisonous and can cause blisters when contact is made with bare skin.

Discover everything you need to know about this intrusive toxic plant with this complete guide to giant hogweed in Scotland.

Travel Tips & Advice Scotland Tourist Information

A Guide to The Best Clothes to Wear When Visiting Scotland

Craig Neil September 25, 20221800 Views 48 min read

Scotland is a great place to take a break thanks to its historic attractions, breathtaking landscapes and cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.

However, it’s essential to make sure you have the right gear with you in order to make the most of a visit to this amazing country.

In this article you will find a list of essentials that every traveller should take with them to Scotland, from choosing the best footwear to midge repellents that actually work.

The Best Hiking Shorts to Wear in Scotland

Craig Neil September 22, 2022916 Views 17 min read

One item of clothing that’s a must-have for walking in Scotland is shorts, whether in the form of convertible trousers with zipped legs or cargo shorts with lots of pockets.

A decent pair of shorts will keep legs cool and will be more comfortable than even the lightest trousers, and the top brands will protect from UV while also being resilient to scuffs and abrasions.

Discover the best shorts to wear on a hike in Scotland with this comprehensive guide.