Tag: Highlands

Nessie story resurfaces after 90 years

£1.5 million investment reimagines the Loch Ness story with brand new immersive experience for new generation 

The wait is almost over for global tourists to the Highlands and Monster spotters, as the newly imagined Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit near Inverness will officially open its doors on Saturday 10th June.

The Loch Ness Centre, located at one of Scotland’s most famous tourist destinations, is nearing completion following a major refurbishment by Continuum Attractions, following its take over earlier this year. £1.5m has been invested in a full upgrade to enhance the visitor experience, allowing people to explore the legend and myths of Loch Ness through immersive tours and also via trips aboard the attraction’s famous research vessel, Deepscan.

Guests will become part of the Centre’s ongoing Quest with regular updates on all the latest news, developments, and Nessie sightings. The attraction is investing in support for Loch Ness Exploration teams to help ensure the search continues for a new generation.

This year marks the 90th anniversary of the famous sighting of Nessie, by Aldie Mackay, in 1933 which catapulted Scotland, Loch Ness, and its monster phenomenon into hearts and minds across the world.

The ‘Monster Spotted’ headline went global, launching Loch Ness centre stage into worlds media and attracting visits from around the world. A media frenzy ensued, just one real story celebrated at the new Loch Ness Centre.

The centre’s social channels have received numerous messages from excited fans, ranging from as far as the United States to Kent, one follower saying ‘Do you have an opening date yet? I’m super excited to see the new centre’.

Visitors will soon have the opportunity to try the new experience, which is located at the epicentre of legendary tales and activity – the old Drumnadrochit Hotel, the home of former Manageress Aldie Mackay.

The experience features seven stories told in a variety of exciting ways: they celebrate This Majestic Place, Scottish Myths and Legends and the scientific search for the Truth;  just three areas of the attraction which features real artefacts and peoples’ witness statements. 

The new one-hour experience offers guests the chance to immerse themselves in the story of the legend and explore the real stories of Loch Ness.

Guests will walk through 500 million years of history to explore the myths and examine the scientific research surrounding the monster. Guests can hear real people’s stories, discover artefacts, and hear scientific debate on the existence of Nessie, a phenomenon boasting over 1,000 eyewitness accounts and recorded sightings, alongside lots of unexplained evidence.

Voyage seekers will also have the extraordinary chance to explore the depths of the world’s most famous Loch with Deepscan Captain, Alistair Matheson, the Skipper for the Loch Ness Project. Guests can book a trip on board the vessel, named after the famous expedition carried out on the Loch in 1987. 

The one-of-a-kind cruise takes up to 12 guests on a very special journey witnessing the breath-taking beauty of Urquhart Castle and searching the depths of the Loch using specialist sonar equipment on board, sailing across the magnificent water that intrigues visitors just as much today, as it did back when Aldie Mackay first spotted the ‘beast’ 90 years ago. It’s strongly recommended to book in advance to secure your spot with Skipper and increase your chance of spotting Nessie the National treasure.

Juliana Delaney, Chief Executive of Continuum, said: “We are thrilled to finally announce our opening date The Loch Ness Centre, it’s been a highly anticipated date! From 10th June we look forward to welcoming guests from across the UK and the globe, excited to join us for this must visit experience when they arrive in the Highlands.

“We now present the story of this global phenomenon in a modern and engaging way. We appreciate we are only guardians of this legend as many Nessie enthusiasts are truly passionate about this place and its history.

“We wanted to involve them and the community to get it right for the locals and tourists alike. At Continuum, we are passionate about finding great stories in great locations – and this really is Scotland’s best story.”

To guarantee entry on the date and time of your choice, it is strongly recommended to pre-book tickets online in advance, where guests can also save up to 10%.

Adult tickets start from £13.95 and Deepscan Cruises tickets start from £19.00.

To book your trip to The Loch Ness Centre or a cruise tour, please visit: 

https://bit.ly/lochnesscentre_opening

Fall in love with the UK all over again this Autumn

As we leave summer behind and enter the autumn months, the UK will change before our eyes. Its most recognisable landscapes will soon be draped in golden leaves, famous peaks will be topped with snow, and mysterious mist will embrace our treasured landmarks.

Rabbie’s (www.rabbies.com) is offering tours throughout our transformed nation, on which we’ll fall in love with the UK all over again.

The award-winning small-group tour operator has departures across the UK throughout the autumn months, and with its guaranteed departure policy – those who book are certain to travel (and have a great time). Every adventure promises new experiences, gorgeous views, local stories from an insightful driver-guide and an unforgettable exploration.

  • Discover natural beauty in the borders: The land that separates Scotland and England has seen conflict in its time, visits to the magnificent Alnwick Castle and the ruins of Kelso Abbey will tell you as much. But in this landscape, natural beauty still reigns supreme. The River Tweed weaves gracefully through the region and an evening drive along the Northumberland coastline will show sandy beaches painted in glorious dusk shades. For some, nothing is cosier than a well-stocked bookshop. This tour stops at one of the largest and most impressive second-hand book shops in Britain, the perfect opportunity to stock up on some autumn reading! Prices for this one-day tour of Alnwick Castle, the Northumberland Coast & the Borders start at £47.
  • Holiday like the Romans in Bath: The city’s bath complex must have been the perfect destination for Roman settlers seeking refuge from Britain’s unpredictable autumnal weather. Today it is a must-visit attraction for those wishing to peek back in time. Travellers to this gorgeous city can also admire its splendid architecture and medieval cathedral. Be sure to take shelter from autumnal winds in one of the splendid emporiums or designer boutiques. One of the many Rabbie’s tours that incorporate Bath is the Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast tour. Few sights are more magical that seeing Stonehenge, the ancient world wonder, on a crisp and misty autumn morning. This 3-day tour departs from London and starts at £169.
  • Experience the snow-capped peaks of Northern Scotland: Northern Scotland boasts a wild landscape and nothing complements this more than a sprinkling of snow atop the peaks. Skye’s Cuillin Mountains look more epic, Glencoe’s curves look larger than life, and the landscapes of the North Coast 500 look even more striking at this time of year. The days may be a little shorter, but if you’re an avid photographer, the gentle light will ensure some majestic shots. Take a North Coast 500 3-day tour with Rabbie’s, departing from Inverness from £159.

Rabbie’s operates sustainability-focused, eco domestic travel options, ensuring that the places we love are there for future generations to enjoy and advocates ‘taking only photos and leaving only footprints’.

Rabbie’s tours provide worry-free journeys so guests can enjoy a sustainable staycation without concerns.

For more information and to book, visit www.rabbies.com