Go Away! - To Inchcolm Island, Firth of Forth

Where? Inchcolm Island, Firth of Forth.

What? Apart from the occasional trip across the bridges, or a frankly insane ‘Looney Dook’ on New Year’s morning, I’m guessing most people have never entered the mystical waters of the Firth of Forth. Soaring eagles, chubby seal pups, comical puffins and graceful porpoise are regular inhabitants of the chilly waters. It is likely that you will spot one or all of these amazing creatures on your journey to Inchcolm Island; an ancient little speck of land between Edinburgh and Aberdour on the Fife coast. For such a tiny place it has witnessed an extraordinary history, playing host to Vikings, hermits, kings, monks and soldiers from both World Wars.

Why? Admittedly, the sun is rarely guaranteed, but the promise of adventure, infused with a little history and a warm welcome, results in something even better – a little bit of Scots magic. Plus it’s right on your own doorstep! The key feature of Inchcolm is the spectacular eight hundred year old abbey complex, beautifully preserved by Historic Scotland. Take a picnic to enjoy on the immaculately manicured lawns, or take a stroll amongst the eerie war ruins, build sandcastles or listen to tales of ghostly monks and sunken ships laden with treasure. Wherever your Inchcolm adventure takes you, remember you are still in bonny Scotland and so rain coats should be part of your shipwreck survival pack, and pirate impressions are always appreciated … Land ho, me heartys!

How? Inchcolm Abbey and Island is maintained by Historic Scotland. Ferries depart daily from North Queensferry from the 1 Apr to 31 Oct.