If you want to take a step back in time and escape modern life, this waterside village might just be a ticket. As soon as you step into the steep cobblestone streets that pass through palaces and cottages that have restored to the glory of the previous 16th and 17th centuries, you will see why it is considered one of Scotland's most picturesque villages.
In fact, it was considered very beautiful, but became the backdrop for hit TV series and films like Outlander and Captain America. But Fife's Culross is more than that, and is a lesson in 3D history. Passing through the whitewashed red tiled building gives you a complex feel of the past as a Scottish burg.
With its stunning riverside views and plenty of nearby beaches, this historic burg is just an hour's drive from Edinburgh, one of the world's top cities.
One of the most notable buildings, Culross Palace pays homage to the booming coal mining industry of the 16th and 17th centuries.
Built by wealthy coal merchant George Bruce, George Bruce, built the world's first coal mine stretching under the sea, allowing you to explore small rooms that connect corridors and sweet gardens.
Even the cobblestone streets of the village reveal details about its historic society. The famous alley, the Back Causeway, was built with a raised central corridor that was thought to be used by nobles to separate from the “common people.”
This leads you to the back of the town's house, where despite its grand architecture, the witches are tested and reminded of their past, which are held back while waiting for execution.
Carlos is now cared for by the Scottish state trust and is described as the “most complete example of burgh in the 17th and 18th centuries.”
Visitors can choose between boutique beds and breakfast, a cottage guesthouse, or a large hotel in a nearby town, but staying at the centre is best for you to truly experience the quiet atmosphere of Culross with an estimated 400 residents.
It is just 26 miles from Edinburgh, ranks the 13th best city in the world in the Timeout annual survey, and is the second highest UK city after London, ranked fifth.
The capital was also the only British city to rank timeouts to the best cities in the world for culture.
