Latest news with #NC500
Sunday Post
4 hours ago
- Sunday Post
NC500 Accommodation: 5 places to stay on the iconic road trip
Get a weekly round-up of stories from The Sunday Post: Thank you for signing up to our Sunday Post newsletter. Something went wrong - please try again later. Sign Up From great NC500 accommodation options to perfect places for a coffee break, lunch or dinner, these five businesses can help make your North Coast 500 adventure an unforgettable experience. About partnership content Some Sunday Post online content is funded by outside parties. The revenue from this helps to sustain our independent news gathering. You will always know if you are reading paid-for material as it will be clearly labelled as 'Partnership' on the site and on social media channels, This can take two different forms. 'Presented by' This means the content has been paid for and produced by the named advertiser. 'In partnership with' This means the content has been paid for and approved by the named advertiser but written and edited by our own commercial content team. The North Coast 500 (NC500) has become one of the world's most iconic road trips – and for good reason. Showcasing Scotland's most incredible scenery, it offers a great way to experience the beauty and splendour of our country. If it's on your bucket list, then let us help with the planning. Here's five great ideas for places to stay, and options for food and drink, on the NC500 route. 1. Black Isle Pods & Chalet © Supplied by Local businesses Looking for a place to stay with the whole family? Black Isle Pods is a family-run business in the Black Isle countryside just 10 miles north of Inverness and three miles from the main A9 road to the north. It is well situated for exploring the Highlands and the North Coast 500. It is only one hour drive from Ullapool on the west coast and two hours from John O'Groats on the north coast. The family's aim is to provide a pleasant, comfortable and memorable stay for all guests. The accommodation consists of three cosy, fully insulated luxury glamping pods. Each is self-contained with a double bed, sofa bed, ensuite shower room, kitchenette and smart TV. They also have their own private hot tub. There is a separate laundry with washing machine and tumble dryer, and a well-stocked shed with wood to purchase for fire pits, local ice cream, ice lollies and cans of juice, books and magazines. The site's comfortable fully self-contained chalet, An Sealladh, has a double and single bedroom and can sleep up to four or five people. It sits enclosed in its own private garden, has decking and a large six-person covered hot tub. It has ramped access and, as its name suggests (An Sealladh means 'view'), has a superb view to the south over Munlochy Bay and on towards the Cairngorms. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in all properties. The Black Isle is a beautiful area with its beaches, harbours, dolphin spotting and many walks. Black Isle Pods & Chalet is currently for sale as successful on-going business along with the family's 4-bedroom former farmhouse which also sits on the site. Contact Galbraith's website for more information. Book your next countryside stay at Black Isle Pods and Chalet. 2. Ardgay Glamping © Supplied by Local businesses The pods at Ardgay Glamping are perfectly positioned as a base for guests to enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits and attractions. They are situated in the quiet, rural village of Ardgay, located within the world-famous North Coast 500 scenic route in the beautiful Kyle of Sutherland. The two luxurious, spacious bespoke pods are designed with modern luxury in mind. They have full en-suite facilities as well as a small kitchen, living room area, TV, Wi-Fi and thermostatically controlled heating for year-round comfort. In front of each pod is a fire pit and a large, decked area with a dining table and chairs, where you can enjoy the serenity of the countryside. There are barbeque cooking facilities under cover available for each pod. Ardgay Glamping is situated just 400m from Ardgay railway station and 200m from the village's main bus stop, with on-site parking for those arriving by car. Behind the pods, there is a bike bothy with upright bike storage and maintenance kits. A discount is available for guests staying three nights or more, and it's open all year round. Explore the North Coast 500 from a base at Ardgay Glamping. 3. The Halladale Inn & North Coast Touring Park © Supplied by Local businesses The Halladale Inn & North Coast Touring Park is located in the village of Melvich on the north coast of the popular NC500 route. The Halladale Inn was developed from an original croft house, built in 1882. It is now a licensed café and restaurant supporting regulars from across Caithness and Sutherland and visitors from further afield – especially those completing the NC500 route. The Halladale Inn provides everything you need for breakfast, lunch and dinner or pop in for coffee, tea, hot chocolate and a cake. It is a licensed premises so offers beer, wine, whiskies, spirits and gins from local distilleries and breweries too. Adjacent to this you'll find The North Coast Touring Park, a motorhome, caravan and camping park with glamping pods and beautiful views over Melvich Bay. There is a first class toilet block, campers kitchen and a laundry along with facilities to offload grey and chemical waste if needed. Finally, the on-site shop is open from 9am – 7pm for your essentials, locally made gifts and also offers an 'off license' service. Owners Tim and Maddi and their team offer a warm welcome to help you have an enjoyable stay. Planning your NC500 adventure? Book your stay at The Halladale Inn. 4. Byrnside & Bromach at Craiglea © Supplied by Local businesses Looking for the ultimate Highland escape? Luxury glamping pods, Byrnside and Bromach at Craiglea, are in a league of their own. Set on the stunning cliffs above Latheronwheel Harbour, right on the legendary NC500 and just 30 miles from John O'Groats, they offer unbeatable sea views over the Moray Firth — sea, sky, and serenity as far as the eye can see. These are not your average pods. With high-end finishes, two double bedrooms, sleek bathrooms, open-plan dining and lounge spaces, and even a full-sized, high-spec kitchen including a butler sink and dishwasher, they have everything you need to relax and recharge in style. Each pod sleeps up to six, making them perfect for couples, families, or friends chasing unforgettable Scottish moments. Sip your morning coffee with the sunrise or toast the day's adventures under the stars on the fabulously spacious decks — and if you're lucky, you might even catch the Northern Lights! So whether you're soaking up sunsets, road-tripping the NC500, or simply craving peace and comfort, experience the magic of the Highlands at Craiglea and see why their guests call this their favourite stop on the NC500. Book now and experience Highland glamping, redefined, on your NC500 road trip. 5. The Old School Restaurant & Rooms © Supplied by Local businesses Overlooking Loch Inchard, The Old School Restaurant and Rooms has one of the most iconic and breathtaking views along the NC500. A hidden gem built in 1871, it offers a unique setting for your stay in the Highlands and is a family run establishment renowned for its excellent food and outstanding service. The restaurant has a fully stocked bar and is open for those that just wish to have a drink and soak up the stunning view or a drink before dinner in the restaurant. The restaurant offers locally sourced produce with a set menu and there are a variety of special dishes put on daily. The bar is stocked with many Scottish whiskies and gins providing a very varied choice, and the restaurant known for its fantastic meals and excellent service. There are stunning beaches locally, with Oldshoremore beach a five-minute drive away. Sandwood Bay is an iconic feature of the NC500 and the car park is a short drive from The Old School, and the views of Foinaven, Arkle and Ben Stack are truly spectacular from the gardens. The Old School is more than a place to stay it is a destination that captures everything about the Highlands. Book your Highland escape at The Old School Hotel today.
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Daily Mirror
Stunning village voted one of UK's 'most beautiful' stops for road trips
Founded in 1788 as a herring port by the British Fisheries Society and was designed by architect Thomas Telford - it is a popular stop-off on the NC500 Summer has finally graced Scotland, and with it comes the influx of tourists eager to soak in the country's breathtaking landscapes. One of the top attractions is the NC500 in the Highlands, a 516-mile scenic route that loops around the north coast of Scotland, beginning and ending at Inverness Castle. The North Coast 500 has become an essential part of any Scottish visit, guiding travellers through majestic mountains and along winding roads. It gained fame on Susan Calman's travel show and was crowned Britain's most beautiful road, typically taking about a week to fully explore. A favourite pit stop along the way is Ullapool, one of the largest villages in the Highlands, nestled amidst mountains just waiting to be scaled. Conde Nast Traveler hailed it as one of the "20 most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland in 2020. Their description summed up the place well: "With its jangling fishing boats and the imposing Caledonian MacBrayne ferry ready to whisk passengers off to the Outer Hebrides, there's a buzz of activity in Ullapool. "But take a moment to pause, perch on the wall in front of the white seafront cottages, and immerse yourself in the Highland hum. "Head straight for The Seafood Shack when lunchtime rolls around (the crispy lobster burger with guacamole and lemon sour cream is a must-try), before popping over to The Ceilidh Place opposite to see what local musicians they have lined up", reports the Scottish Daily Express. Ullapool, only reachable by car, is a mere hour's drive from Inverness along the breathtaking A835, part of the famed NC500 route. The village is nestled amidst rugged mountains including Bheinn Ghobhlach to the west, An Teallach to the southwest (both across the loch), Beinn Dearg to the southeast near Loch Broom's head, and Beinn Mhòr na Còigich to the north. The village also offers convenient transport links to destinations like the Isle of Skye, another must-visit spot in Scotland. Ullapool boasts a rich history, having been established as a herring port by the British Fisheries Society in 1788, with its design credited to architect Thomas Telford. Telford, one of the world's most renowned civil engineers, was also responsible for projects, such as the town of Telford in Shropshire, the Broomielaw Bridge in Glasgow, and the Caledonian Canal in Inverness. His work significantly improved transport across the UK. Many of the buildings in Ullapool are centuries old, and a stroll through its streets reveals numerous historic houses from its fishing heritage and churches that have served as places of worship for generations. Notable sites include Ardmair beach and bay, where the smooth flat stones make for intriguing stone statues and skimming opportunities. Other attractions worth a visit include Rhue Point Lighthouse, which offers a delightful walk, particularly as the sun sets over the Summer Isles. Additionally, those journeying to and from Ullapool should make a point of visiting Corrieshalloch Falls, one of the world's most breathtaking gorges, sculpted over millions of years.
Daily Record
15-07-2025
- Daily Record
North Coast 500 named one of UK's 'must visit' routes as scenery and practicality praised
The study ranked road trips based on reviews, fuel costs, EV chargers, places to stay and popularity A spectacular Scottish road trip has been named among the best in the UK for summer 2025. The North Coast 500 has officially been ranked the third most popular road trip in the UK. The ranking cementis the NC500's status as a must-do route for travellers this summer. The breathtaking 516-mile loop through the Highlands continues to capture the imagination of adventure seekers. It is known for its jaw-dropping coastal scenery, remote beaches, ancient castles and wild mountain passes, and its popularity has been reflected in the ranking from Car Finance 247. The new research by the UK's leading online car finance platform analysed a variety of factors when comparing some of the UK's best-loved driving routes. The study looked at each road trip's TripAdvisor ratings, fuel costs, EV charger availability, accommodation options, and search popularity to determine the best all-round experiences for drivers in 2025. For Scots, the North Coast 500 is already a well-known favourite. But this latest analysis shows it isn't just about stunning views, it also delivers when it comes to practical travel essentials. The route sees an average of 19,000 monthly searches, the second-highest on the list, and boasts 2,255 five-star TripAdvisor reviews for its many sights. Petrol costs for the route were estimated at £87.72, relatively affordable given its length, especially compared to other longer-distance journeys. Fuel costs were calculated proportionally based on mileage, ensuring a fair comparison between short and extended routes. The study also aimed to reflect the evolving needs of modern road trippers, including those planning budget-friendly escapes or eco-conscious EV adventures. While England's Jurassic Coast topped the overall list thanks to its balance of affordability, visitor reviews and accessibility, the North Coast 500 was by far the highest ranked Scottish entry. The Wales Coast Path claimed second spot, with more than 5,000 five-star reviews and an impressive 479 affordable accommodation options. Other popular routes, such as Hadrian's Wall and the South West 660, fell behind in key areas like EV infrastructure and online interest. Another Scottish gem to make the list was the Kintyre 66, which rounded out the top 10. This scenic 66-mile loop through Argyll offers sea views from nearly every stretch of road and looks out to the islands of Gigha, Islay, Jura and Arran. On a clear day, visitors can even see across to Northern Ireland from South Kintyre. The Kintyre 66 includes six spurs for those keen to explore further and clocked 50 five-star reviews, 170 average monthly searches, and a fuel cost of just £11.22. The route also offers 67 EV charging points and 24 budget accommodation options. The research highlights how road trip trends are shifting. Travellers in 2025 are increasingly factoring in practicalities such as fuel efficiency, charging access and affordability, in addition to the traditional draw of beautiful views and scenic detours. 'As a company committed to helping people get on the road with confidence, we know that value matters, not just when choosing a car, but also when planning where it takes you,' said Louis Rix, Co-Founder and COO at Car Finance 247. 'This research shows that whether you're heading out for a short weekend drive or a longer escape, there are incredible UK road trips to suit every budget and lifestyle.' Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. The UK's top 10 road trip destinations for 2025 Route Number of 5-star Tripadvisor reviews Avg monthly searches Cost of petrol for the route Number of EV charging points Number of affordable accommodation options 1 Jurassic Coast 3,842 26,000 £16.15 73 24 2 Wales Coast Path 5,289 900 £147.90 112 479 3 North Coast 500 2,255 19,000 £87.72 65 152 4 North Yorkshire Moors Linear 21,665 50 £30.77 18 19 5 Hadrians Wall 752 16,000 £14.28 22 65 6 South West 660 662 100 £112.20 317 29 7 Norfolk Coastal Path 4,052 250 £14.28 13 138 8 Northumberland Coast Path 1,190 400 £10.54 23 73 9 The Cumbrian Coast 1,530 150 £34.00 23 107 10 Kintyre 66 50 170 £11.22 67 Article continues below 24
The National
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Rarely seen Millais works displayed in Perth in first for Scotland
Part of a collection of 300 artworks and other belongings, which have remained unseen for 30 years, will go on a long-term loan to Perth Art Gallery. Millais was one of the artists known as the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, with Ophelia (1851-52) being one of his most significant paintings. READ MORE: Man to appear in court after Stone of Destiny incident at Perth Museum The collection is being donated by Millais and Effie's great-grandson, Sir Geoffroy Millais. He told the PA News Agency: 'It feels fitting that this collection finds its home in Perth, where the story of my great-grandparents began. 'Sharing these personal treasures with the public is a way of keeping their legacy alive and offering new generations the chance to connect with their remarkable lives and work.' The collection includes work from when Millais was just seven years old and jewellery belonging to Gray, who was born in and died in Perth. Gray and Millais's relationship has been heavily dramatised since the 19th century as a result of a so-called love triangle between the pair and art critic John Ruskin. Ruskin and Gray were married for six years before annulment, with Gray going on to marry Millais one year later in 1855. READ MORE: Award-winning Scottish hotel on NC500 up for sale for £1.2 million David Tennant portrayed Millais in a 1998 radio drama, The Order of Release, and in 2014 the story was adapted into the film Effie Gray, produced by Emma Thompson with Dakota Fanning in the titular role. Helen Smout, chief executive of Culture Perth and Kinross, said: 'We are honoured to be the recipients of such an important and personal collection. 'This is not only a homecoming for Effie Gray, but a celebration of Millais' enduring connection to Perthshire and a transformative moment for the cultural landscape of our region.' The free public display opens on July 25.
Scottish Sun
14-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
‘Dirty' NC500 campers branded a ‘disgrace' after bottles, human waste & cut down trees dumped
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) LOCALS living along the North Coast 500 have hit out at tourists who left a much-loved beauty spot in a shocking state. A furious resident in the Scottish Highlands was unimpressed after visitors left a huge mess along the iconic route over the weekend. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Human waste and mess were left at the beauty spot Credit: FACEBOOK: NC500 THE LAND WEEPS 5 Bin bags full of waste were left hanging on trees Credit: FACEBOOK: NC500 THE LAND WEEPS 5 Piles of rubbish were also left on used fire pits Credit: FACEBOOK: NC500 THE LAND WEEPS They said that it was "one of the worst instances of dirty camping" they had seen and branded the culprits a "disgrace". The local resident never revealed the exact spot where the mess was left, but they explained that they noticed it on the grass just a few minutes' walk away from a main road. Empty plastic bottles appeared to have been left scattered on the ground in the grass. Many bottles were spotted piled up along with other bits of rubbish - including cans of beer, paper bags and food wrappers - on a used fire pit. Empty boxes that once contained camping gear were also left abandoned next to buckets full of rubbish. Black bags that were completely full of waste were also left hanging on a tree near a body of water. If you were the visitors and you did this, then you should be thoroughly ashamed of yourself. It's an absolute disgrace and a scandal that this goes on Post on Facebook While branches that appear to have been cut from nearby trees lay strewn across the ground. There also appeared to be human waste left in the area, surrounded by used, dirty tissues. A burnt-out, used fire pit was also left abandoned on the ground. The frustrated local shared snaps of the mess and shared them on the Facebook group NC500 The Land Weeps on Saturday. 'Absolutely disgusted', complain Nc500 locals as they blast BBC over Landward scene The post read: "I was on the NC500 today and I came across what for me was one of the worst instances of dirty camping I have seen in quite a while. "Bottles, human waste, cut down trees, rubbish dumped, open fires with waste dumped on them etc. "All this just a minute's walk from the road. "If you were the visitors and you did this, then you should be thoroughly ashamed of yourself. "It's an absolute disgrace and a scandal that this goes on. "So much for 'the pledge'. Just another week on the route." Users flocked to the comments to blast the people responsible. One person said: "I'm angry and sad that these folk live amongst us!! Why bother to visit somewhere so beautiful then destroy by treating it like a cesspit. SCOTLAND'S ROUTE 66 DESPITE its challenges, the NC500 is still one of the most popular road trips in the world. Earlier this year, the scenic route was voted the number one most searched for road trip in the UK and an astonishing fifth in the world-wide table. With its impressive 516-mile stretch of magnificent coastal views, it's not surprising it's such a popular route for travellers looking to explore. From castles to distilleries there is something for everyone to enjoy. It was also ranked as the most romantic drive in Britain after an influx of visitors took to the roads for 'staycations' in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic. An English couple told how they loved the NC500 so much that they got it tattooed on their bodies forever. While a couple who travelled the route in an Audi convertible told how it was "one of the best holidays" they've ever had. "Honestly people baffle me with their behaviour." Another added: "Manky mingers." Someone else wrote: "Who are these cretins who walk amongst us? "I just can't get my head round the fact that they think this sort of behaviour is acceptable." While a fourth posted: "I'm stunned at such entitlement and disrespect." And a fifth chimed in: "Destroying what they came to see. Beggars belief!" 5 Empty boxes were dumped next to buckets of other discarded rubbish Credit: FACEBOOK: NC500 THE LAND WEEPS
