When the plane first broke below the cloud line, I was astonished by Scotland’s beauty. It was an emerald green puzzle of lush landscape in a thousand irregular squares. At the heart of Scotland’s surreal landscape were rolling green hills. Sheep, ponies, and small villages dotted the view like patches of wildflowers. I landed in Glasgow on a misty Wednesday morning. The entire town has a fascinating mix of old stone infrastructure and modern new conveniences.

I had wanted to visit Scotland since I was a child, saving up a year for the occasion. 

My original vacation plan was to explore Glasgow, Edinburgh, and a smattering of charming villages in between. I never made it to all my locations, realising how much there was to see in Glasgow alone. I heeded the warnings of rain and brought a sturdy raincoat. This was a wise investment. It rained heavily over half the 5 day trip, but I do not consider this a detractor.

I primarily came to take photographs, and I was not disappointed. Since Scotland was neutral during the world wars, all of their ancient castles and town centres are fully intact and usually restored.

My first stop was one of the many beautiful churches in the area. Even the non-religious such as myself can appreciate a well-structured building. Glasgow City Church was a stunning expression of masonry and stained glass that I encourage everyone to see.

After this was an afternoon brewery tour. I also visited the Pot Still pub, Molly Malone’s, and Drum & Monkey Glasgow. There was enough seating and hospitality at all locations. Rums, scotches, and ales were abundant in all flavours and shades. I felt spoiled by such authentic yet delicious samplings. Everyone was certainly jolly by the end of things, each of us retiring to our local hotels.

I realise Nando’s is incredibly common in the UK, but it was the most important restaurant of the trip. Everything on the menu was dependably affordable for a group, and featured fantastically spicy Peri-Peri sauce I would buy for my house. It was a perfectly warm dish for a rainy day, which was over half the time. Customers have to get up for their own condiments, but do not let this be a barrier to greatness. 

Out of all the cultural events I was able to attend, I most enjoyed a play at Theatre Glasgow Royal. The show was a comedic interpretation of Romeo and Juliet. Everyone had a good laugh, and the production quality was top notch. The theatre itself was a lovely display of distant architectural values from before World War One.

In all honesty, on this trip, I ended up only visiting the smaller cosy villages and Glasgow only. Edinburgh was, unfortunately, the most expensive possible location for the purposes of booking or purchases. There were also several vantage points where you had to pay to take pictures. At that point, my wallet was awfully light.
Regardless, I will be returning to Scotland for a royal castle tour when I have the chance. The castles there are splendid beyond description.

Born in 1989 in Northern Ontario, Canada, Jay Lyon is a freelance artist and photographer. When not studying academia, he is wondering about the world’s mysteries or gardening.

Photos courtesy and copyright Jay Lyon, published with permission.