Scotland is well known for its areas of remote tranquillity and outstanding areas of rural beauty. Similar to the rest of Britain, Scotland also has a thriving cultural scene which is evident in cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh.

The following is a brief guide to some activities and attractions that people of all ages can enjoy when visiting Scotland.

If you are visiting Edinburgh on a family trip the Royal Museum comes highly recommended. The Royal Museum is part of the National Museums of Scotland Group and is located close to the Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street. The Royal Museum doesn't charge an admission fee for its permanent exhibits which makes it great for family outings and large groups on a shoestring.

The Royal Museum is host to an extensive range of exhibitions to suit all tastes. Exhibitions include insights into geographical fields such as geology, natural history and archaeology as well as humanities such as the progressions and development of the sciences, technologies and art. Artefacts and displays vary from one of Elton John's lavish stage costumes to Dolly the Sheep, making a trip to The Royal Museum an entertaining and educational day out for all.

As well as its notable and varied exhibitions The Royal Museum is also recognised for its unique architectural style. The design was created by Captain Francis Fowke, a Royal Engineer whose previous works included the design of The Royal Albert Hall. Fowke used his signature take on the Renaissance style to create a design that is still admired today.

Glasgow's West End is home to many sites of cultural and artistic significance. Kelvingrove Art Gallery is Scotland's principal museum and art gallery. Kelvingrove Art Gallery is also Scotland's second most popular tourist attraction after Edinburgh Castle.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery can be found on Argyle Street in the trendy west end of Glasgow. The gallery and museum can be found on the banks of the River Kelvin near to the Kelvin Hall. After the original hall was destroyed in a fire it was redesigned in the same architectural style as the museum and gallery. Both buildings are made from red brick in a traditional design.

The Museum and Gallery is host to a range of exhibits that are mainly sourced from the McLellan Galleries. One of the gallery's highlights is Christ of Saint John of the Cross, one of Salvador Dali's acclaimed pieces. Other works from French impressionists and Scottish colourists also feature in the galleries. Other displays include an extensive collection of armour and armaments from throughout time and extensive natural history displays.