With the release of the blockbuster film starring Robert Downy Jr. and Jude Law, Sherlock Holmes has once again captured the imagination of a generation. But did you know that the character’s creator and author, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, was born and raised in Edinburgh? You can visit his statue, see the house he was born in and have a drink in the friendly Conan Doyle pub, filled with Holmes memorabilia. Click below for more information.

Why are you a Scot? There's a wee bit of Scotland in all of us. Whether you have Scottish roots or you're simply a Scot at heart, we want to hear from you.

The islands off the west coast of Scotland, or the Hebrides, appear on National Geographic’s website this month. Be inspired by Jim Richardson’s breathtaking photos and Lynne Warren’s story of these alluring islands, remote yet accessible. Their stark beauty has captured the imagination of artists, scientists, poets, and travellers alike and their history tells a fascinating story of not only the islanders, but of Scotland's turbulent past.

Download our free Scotland brochures today. We have our Scotland vacation planner, the Official Guide to Golf in Scotland and the Scottish Adventure Guide 2010 available for you to download now. We’ll be adding more in the coming months so keep checking to see what becomes available.

Scotland’s larder is stocked full of natural ingredients from prime Aberdeen Angus beef and wild venison to salmon, the king of fish, and an array of seafood, often hand-dived. Encouraged by a growing awareness and request for high-quality products, events such as Food Festivals and Farmers’ Markets have mushroomed. Scottish Food Fortnight is celebrated at the beginning of September with tastings, cookery demonstrations and gourmet trails, while Food and Drink Festivals are held year-round.

For the past 12 years, Scotland has led the way with its Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS), a world first. Choosing to stay in GTBS-awarded accommodation lowers your carbon footprint and you will be reassured that these businesses have been assessed by a qualified grading advisor against a rigorous set of criteria. Over 700 accommodation providers, visitor attractions and tour operators are part of the GTBS, helping Scotland remain a sustainable destination.