Chapters Cabin

Do you have an eye for geometrical designs? You'll probably appreciate the formal landscapes at Drummond Castle Gardens (25 minutes’ drive), with their symmetrical layouts and manicured yew hedges. A series of interesting events is held here, from archery competitions to classic car rallies. Sitting atop a craggy rock, Stirling Castle (50 minutes) was the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots. It’s well worth a visit for its enormous Banqueting Hall, elegantly furnished royal chambers and carefully recreated series of tapestries, not to mention expansive views from the battlements. If you’re into militaria, there’s also the Regimental Museum. For an insight into Scottish life in the Iron Age, you can head to the northernmost tip of Loch Tay and the Scottish Crannog Centre (one hour). This open-air museum celebrates the humble (and yet extraordinarily sophisticated for 2,500 years ago) crannog, a dwelling built on stilts in the water. You can also take part in workshops exploring crafts like basket weaving and leather pouch making.