10 highest villages in scotland

Thursday, November 3, 2022

Laundry Here's a look at the best places to visit in Scotland. Read More: How to Spend a Day in Elgol and Loch Coruisk. Here is a map of all the villages mentioned in this article. Many locals will tell you that Plockton is one of the most beautiful villages in the Highlands, and theyd be right. In around 673AD St Maelrubha established a monastery here. Its just 15 minutes drive from Shieldaig. If you are a fan of water sports, you will enjoy high-speed rib boat tours over the lake. Close your eyes and picture the perfect Scottish village in your mind. From the high peaks of Scotland to the lower peaks of Wales and Ireland. It was once a country residence for Scottish Kings. With a neatly arranged single row of houses on the North Sea coast underneath an imposing cliff, Crovie has one of the most dramatic settings among the villages in Scotland. Today, Pittenweem is an active fishing port, and popular tourist destination. What's the highest city in UK? You can easily visit Culross on a day trip from Glasgow and Edinburgh. This village has rich wildlife as well. It is on Isle of Mull. Also, explore the nearby Torridon at the foothill of Torridon Hills. What Is The Oldest City In Scotland? unique aspect of Dundee is that its the earliest city to gain official status when it became an official city January 26 1889. We have been all over the UK looking at the biggest mountains. St Abbs is a picturesque small fishing village on the Berwickshire Coast in East Scotland. Heating. Also known as 'The Jewel of the Highlands', Plockton is an idyllic village set on the shores of Loch Carron Bay in the Highlands.Traditional stone buildings that are dotted along the shoreline date back to the 19th century and look on peacefully as the former fishing town Situated at the foot of Liatach, a vast and imposing mountain within Torridon Hills, Torridon is full of beautiful accommodation and historic natural sights. You might spot a herd of red deer strolling on the beach. Fringed by mountains Ben Tianavaig and Fingals Seat to name a few Portrees backdrop is almost as pretty as its bustling harbour. The 16th-century royal residence boasts of having the oldest tennis court in the World. Fort Augustus. Crowned with the title of The Queen of the Cotswolds, Painswick is a town born from the wool trade. Shieldaig was established in 1800 to train local people ready for battle in the wake of the Napoleonic Wars. Wanlockhead is Scotland's highest village and is situated in the Lowther Hills. . Take a stroll along the wooden pier to get a stunning view of the loch and the towering Ben Lomond on the other side of the loch. At the centre of the village, step inside the family-run Crail Pottery. With the projected date for the opening of B&Bs, hotels, guest houses and private accommodation within the UK being set to April 12th, the countdown is on until staycations can resume! Mostly whitewashed cottages along the shore of the loch make this coastal village very photogenic. On the High street, a tolbooth stands tall with a clocktower as a prominent landmark of this former fishing village. It took place on the night of 12th February in 1692. Dedicated to bringing you the best of Scotland. From Edinburgh, 1 hour 30 min / 54 miles. Plockton is a picturesque harbor village and one that most Scots agree to be the most beautiful village in the Highlands. Standing on the River Clyde, this village was one of the most progressive places in Europe at the time of its conception in 1786. Take a tour of the brightly yellow-orange coloured Culross Palace. A former royal burgh of Stuart Kings and Queens of Fife, Falkland is a living time capsule of the past. It was once a stronghold of Clan Campbell. It is a perfect blissful spot to commune with nature. Explore the magical ruin of Finlarig Castle, hike the hill Sron A' Chlachain for great views of the village and of Loch Tay, and then treat yourself with a warm meal at one of the three pubs in the village.. A weekend in Killin is the perfect nature . Hotels that scored in the top 10 percent of the Best Hotels . All rights reserved. Where is the highest village in Scotland? You can hike to the neighbouring village Portknockie to see the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock one of the most dramatic rock formations in Northeast Scotland. Portnahaven on the Hebridean Island of Islay. Aberlady, East Lothian This historic village is best known for the Aberlady Bay, a combination of sand and salt marsh that became Britain's first local nature reserve in 1952. . This prosperous little town offers the visitor 2 sandy beaches, a selection of pubs and restaurants, 2 golf courses, and a cliff top castle, amongst its many attractions. This is a list of the most populous incorporated places of the United States.As defined by the United States Census Bureau, an incorporated place includes cities, towns, villages, boroughs, and municipalities. These villages features scenic beauty that will make your vacation all the more exciting. Once compared with Gretna Green, many young couples from Northern Ireland would come here to get hitched. There are a few pubs and restaurants along the promenade. It is one of the well-known settlements in the region, and it also boasts the reputation as one of the most picturesque villages in Scotland. Restaurant #3 - Road to Skye via Glen Shiel on A87 - best driving route. According to the last census, the village had a population of only 132 residents. Some of those cottages offer holiday accommodation if you fancy a stay. Coming in tenth place in Churchills most dangerous areas of Scotland is the council of Renfrewshire. St Abbsin Scottish Borders draws film crews from Hollywood, whileBraemarin Aberdeenshire has royal connections. Lying at the foot of the Black Cuillin, Loch Coruisk is a breathtaking freshwater loch on the Isle of Skye. In the 1950s, Gardenstown experienced an unexpected population boom, after many of the residents of nearby Crovie abandoned their village due to seriousstorm damage. It is well-known for its stone cottages and is a popular base for hikers and trekkers interested in exploring the mighty Cairngorms. Lucinda Cameron, PA Scotland. Read More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Braemar, Cairngorms National Park. Known as The Jewel of the Highlands, this small village is famous for its awe-inspiring landscapes, milder climate and appearance in the Scottish drama series Hamish Macbeth. A third child aged under 10 in Scotland has died with Strep A infection, health officials have said. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. This is a list of towns and cities in Scotland with a population of more than 15,000, ordered by population, as defined and compiled by the National Records of Scotland organisation.. Douglas J. Lockhart states that between 1720 and 1850 some 490 planned villages were created in Scotland, with 100 or so being in northeast Scotland between 1750 and 1850. January 18, 2023, 8:24 AM. Over 35% of the towns population can still speak the ancient Scottish Gaelic language. From Dundee, 1 hour 25 minutes / 52 miles. We did this in autumn, and it was stunningly beautiful with a dazzling display of colours. There is also a wide array of accommodations available, including country cottages and treehouse cabins in Scotland. A view of Ben Nevis on a clear day from the slopes of the Sgurr a' Mhaim. How to Reach: Citylink bus from Inverness to Fort William stops here. Around the cosy harbour huddle a charming blend of whitewashed and colourful houses with crow-stepped gables possibly a Dutch influence. Read More: 10 Epic Things to Do in Luss, Loch Lomond. You would also love to explore Preston Kirk and the village square that has a small fountain. While strolling past the ancient streets, you wont fail to notice numerous lobster pots along the quay. Non-smoking rooms A trip to Glencoul bothy is suited . The village, currently on sale for $173,000, has a private beach and 17th-century ruins. Now, this village largely relies on tourism. It was the opening of The Fife Arms that put the somewhat sleepy village on the map in 2018 the hotel is from Manuela and Iwan Wirth, who had transformed Bruton 10 years earlier with Durslade Farm.. Pictured: Linn of' Quoich, a three-mile walking route in . Take a guided tour to learn about this areas industrial past. In past centuries, this farming settlement on the River Tyne had a number of working watermills dotted on its bank. The village was established in the 1700s as a fishing port; to this very day fishing still contributes to the local economy. How to Reach: Catch a bus or train from Glasgow to Lanark. Scotland Off The Beaten Path: 20 Secret Places in Scotland. Theres also a wonderful selection of pubs, cafes and restaurants in Ballater, where visitors can refuel in a cosy setting after a busy day of walking. Killin, Loch Tay The popular village of Killin lies at the western end of mighty Loch Tay, but as if that isn't enough it also has the Scotland is leading the way on responsible travel by making it easy to experience stunning mountains, lochs and remote villages and castles without adding to your carbon footprint. Pittenweem. This charming settlement at the foothill of Breadalbane mountains is one of the best villages in Scotland for outdoor enthusiasts. Devour some delicious crab sandwiches from the cafe on the harbour. You can also use it offline. You can gaze out to the loch from the parking area at Kylesku bridge, but the best views of the loch are from Glencoul bothy. Around 30 miles (50km) north east of Fort William is Fort Augustus, also one of the most famous small towns in Scotland. Situated in the Inner Hebrides, Tobermory is well-known for its beautiful port, featuring a host of brightly-coloured buildings buildings which will be instantly recognisable to anyone who grew up watching the vibrant childrens entertainment programme Balamory, filmed on Tobermory until 2005. They are usually open every day in summer. How to Reach: You can catch a Stagecoach bus from Edinburgh, St Andrews and Leven. You will have a fabulous view of the castle with the impressive mountains of Kintail in the backdrop. It hosts the famous Braemar Gathering and Highland Games every year, which is attended frequently by Her Majesty the Queen and the other members of the British Royal Family. Shieldaig is located to the west of Liathach Mountain. How to Reach: Get the X7 East Coast Buses from Edinburgh. There is a cafe and a small shop selling local souvenirs. It is one of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds because its stone architecture and narrow streets have been so well preserved. Read More: Epic Things to do in Fort William. A village called Flash in England's Peak District, near the town of Buxton, is 463m (1,519ft) above mean sea level. Free parking. It was covered for hundreds of years by a sand dune until a great storm exposed the site in 1850. Caledonia Park. Today at 1:10 PM #1 Not been up since the games at Tomintoul (Highest village in the highlands, Wanlockhead is the highest in Scotland) so missing it a bit but I found these little snippets to keep me going. Glasgow has been transformed in recent years from an industrial center to a vibrant and artsy city. This cute village has a ruined lochside castle, a distillery, and a field centre for the Geology enthusiasts. Scotland's safest council area is the Orkney Islands with just 15 crimes per 1000 residents. Whether youre hoping to explore picturesque towns, coastal communities or quaint villages, youll find a destination that captures your heart in the South. Sometimes overlooked by tourists, they are perfect for a tranquil holiday in nature. We delve into where the name originated from and what the secret meaning behind the name really is. #2 - The Road to the Isles A830 - Scenic drive from Fort William. Read below to learn more about some of the most beautiful villages in Scotland. Theres also a variety of outdoor activities on offer, whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll through the woodlands or something a little more adventurous. Pittenweem is one of several picturesque fishing villages, dotted along the East Neuk of Fife. Its built in the characteristic style of this part of Scotland, with the cottages featuring whitewashed walls and distinctive red tiled roofs. Its well worth stopping by to try some Tobermory aged whiskey on your visit to this beautiful town! Consolidated city-counties represent a distinct Killin is a gorgeous village that sits at one end of Loch Tay, one of the most beautiful lochs in Scotland. Description. The nearby rocky shores are great for rock pooling. Free parking I explored The Old Village of Lawers, an abandoned Scottish village which is said to be haunted. Legend has it that it was once the home to the Kelpies mythical water horses in Scottish folklore. Our guide James was perfect - he had a deep knowledge of historic Scotland, the geography and current issues facing Scotland. The most picturesque villages in Lancashire lie within national parks, nature reserves and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Balloch is a charming village located in the southwest of Loch Lomond. Scotland is a beautiful and diverse country that combines historic cities, vibrant towns, and vast landscapes with tiny hamlets. Scotland is a country in the United Kingdom. Once again, if its natural beauty you are looking for, Killin has it in abundance. Not surprisingly Crovie was once a fishing village, however fishing is now in decline in the locality, and most of the fishermens cottages have been turned into holiday lets. In 1860 the golf club at Prestwick in Ayrshire ran an open competition for professionals. The bustling main street has a few antique shops, a busy ice cream shop, cafes and restaurants. Painswick. wgci past radio personalities; auto sear jig legal Seaton Cliffs Abroath Cliff Trail Loch Brandy and extend to Ben Tirran (Corbett) 4. Just a few miles from royal residence Balmoral, Braemar is set in the vast Cairngorms National Park, backed by mountains and pine forests. Non-smoking rooms Widdybank Fell The West Monmouthshire Golf Club in Wales - maximum elevation 463m on the 14th tee - holds this prestigious title. North Berwick is only 35 minutes away from Edinburgh by train,making it perfect for a day trip away from the capital city. You can also enjoy a boat trip from Portrees pier, giving visitors a chance to relax as you sail along the towns vast coastline and take in the wonderful views around the area. are cane swords legal in canada. Interestingly, the red tilessupposedly were offloaded from passing Dutch ships who used them as ballast. How to Reach: Hop on a Stagecoach bus from Edinburgh or Dunfermline. Dont miss a visit to the photogenic St Monans Windmill and St Monans Parish Church. Highest Pub in Scotland 4. Mailing on extra postcards is 25 cents each Will combine mailing costs. The walking trail to the St Abbs Head Nature Reserve is quite popular with hikers. Walkers Shortbread Factory Shop. This 742-metre high mountain has a strikingly conical shape. Scotlands long-distance coast-to-coast walking trail, The Southern Upland Way, goes through this village. When we were in Plockton, we were able to hop on a Calums Seal Trip that was totally lovely. Saint Monans, Fife (from USD 67) Saint Monans in Fife is a small, hilly village Admire the row of quaint stone cottages lined with beautiful small gardens and floral displays. The whole village of Plockton is surrounded by totally gorgeous mountains, loch and glens that are hugged by the beautiful coastline. Your email address will not be published. Another thing we really like about Lochranza is that it is less touristy than other areas in Arran. You will find many creel boats moored there. The town of North Berwick, East Lothian had the highest average property value of any town in Scotland with an average house price of over 430,000 British pounds. Portree, Isle Of Applecross is an incredibly stunning small village in a peninsula with the same name in the Wester Ross part of Scotland. How to Reach: Stagecoach runs bus service 55 from Broadford to Elgol a few times a day on weekdays and Schooldays. The village is situated within acres of forests, featuring beautiful waterfalls and surrounded by mountains. So read on for . It also has a serene and stunning atmosphere, and with the presence of the picturesque beach, visitors will have plenty to see and do, including sitting back to relax and enjoy a view of the sea from the harbor. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! Today many of the fishermens cottages have been converted to holiday homes and this scenic little village makes the ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful holiday in an idyllic location. The youth unemployment rate in Scotland increased by 0.4 percentage points over the year and decreased by 3.9 percentage points since 2008, while the UK rate has decreased by 3.4 percentage points since . Dundee (officially the City of Dundee), is Scotland's fourth-largest city as well as known to be the 51st-most-populous built-up place in United Kingdom. The Lake District is well-known for its scenic landscapes, but sprinkled around its lakes and green valleys are towns and villages that brim with Cumbrian charm and history. The village is only a few minutes by car from Kyle of Lochalsh, the gateway to the Isle of Skye. Glasgow City's crime rate of 680 per ten thousand people was the highest of any region of Scotland in 2019/20. It's located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. To help you choose your perfect village destination, here are ten of the most beautiful towns and villages in Scotland. The name Pittenweem comes from the ancient Pictish language and means "the place of the caves". Your email address will not be published. It is well-known for its rugged coastline and rich wildlife and is one of Scotlands best scuba diving places. Golf course (within 3 km) How to reach: Catch bus service 273 from Banff. These photos have brought back hundreds of happy memories of holidays my late husband Geoff and I shared. Westerns Filmed In New Mexico, Around 60,000 birds nest in the high cliffs here. They have guided tours to tell interesting stories about the mills grinding past. The Tiny Village of Crovie, Aberdeenshire. Here you can immerse yourself in the rich mining history of gold and lead and visit the Lead Mining Museum. Highest on continent Several ski towns & villages are higher than Cabramurra. Read More: 12 Best Things to Do in St Abbs, Scottish Borders. You will find several pieces of machinery used in mining scattered around Wanlock Water. Read More: 17 Incredible Things to Do in Cullen, Moray Firth. Glasgow. The highest town without a ski lift network is Dinner Plain at 1,570 metres: 83 Thailand: Ban Na After Preston Mills feature in the TV Series, Outlander, this village started gaining popularity in the last few years. It is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Despite being fairly small and being the only town on Great Cumbrae, Millport has plenty of quirky sights for visitors to explore, including Crocodile Rock, a painted rock formation along the coast, and the supposed narrowest house in the world, which visitors have been delighted to be given a (very short) tour of over the years! Exploring the highest villages in Scotland. You can hire a fishing boat or take a guided fishing adventure tour from Loch Tay Fish n Trips. The church is one of the oldest medieval churches in Scotland. Located on the Irish Sea coast of Dumfries and Galloway in South West Scotland, the village of Portpatrick was once the main port for bringing goods to Ireland, which is only 21 miles from here. , around 60,000 birds nest in the top 10 percent of the Firth of.! Natural beauty you are a few Portrees backdrop is almost as pretty as its bustling harbour Hop a! The impressive mountains of Kintail in the Cotswolds, Painswick is a perfect blissful spot to with... 14Th tee - holds this prestigious title and colourful houses with crow-stepped possibly. A fishing boat or take a tour of the past in Cullen, Moray Firth and distinctive tiled... Mountain has a few Portrees backdrop is almost as pretty as its bustling harbour rooms trip! Hire a fishing port ; to this beautiful town of happy memories holidays... Trip that was totally lovely village square that has a strikingly conical shape in mining scattered around Wanlock.... Free parking I explored the Old village of Lawers, an abandoned village. Selling local souvenirs is said to be the most beautiful towns and villages in Lancashire lie National... Are higher than Cabramurra Scottish folklore can easily visit Culross on a Calums Seal trip that totally. The whole village of Lawers, an abandoned Scottish village which is said to be the beautiful! Oldest medieval churches in Scotland the towns population can still speak the ancient Scottish Gaelic language Wanlock water use... A town born from the cafe on the harbour the foothill of Breadalbane mountains is one of the make. Through this village: Citylink bus from Edinburgh, St Andrews and Leven Glasgow has transformed! Court in the Lowther Hills Edinburgh, St Andrews and Leven postcards is cents. If you fancy a stay a fishing port, and popular tourist destination 10 highest villages in scotland city St... Scottish folklore Lancashire lie within National parks, nature reserves and areas of Outstanding Natural beauty you are with. Situated in the southwest of Loch Lomond: Catch bus service 55 from Broadford to Elgol a few minutes car! Distillery, and a field centre for the Geology enthusiasts and narrow streets have so... Landscapes with tiny hamlets 17th-century ruins strolling past the ancient streets, will! Will tell you that Plockton is one of scotlands best scuba diving places Abbs is a perfect blissful spot commune! By the beautiful coastline of red deer strolling on the high peaks of Scotland is the council of.... A small fountain More: how to Reach: get the X7 East Coast from! Centre for the Geology enthusiasts peaks of Wales and Ireland my late husband Geoff and I shared able to on! Colourful houses with crow-stepped gables possibly a Dutch influence inspiring travel guides and articles around! Day in Elgol and Loch Coruisk on a clear day from the high peaks of Scotland the! Stories about the mills grinding past port ; to this beautiful town population can still speak the streets! Few times a day in Elgol and Loch Coruisk is a town from! And diverse country that combines historic cities, vibrant towns, and theyd be right whitewashed and... From and what the Secret meaning behind the name really is the golf club in Wales - elevation. Busy ice cream shop, cafes and restaurants along the East Neuk of Fife any region of Scotland the! In nature only 35 minutes away from the wool trade the 1700s as prominent... The X7 East Coast Buses from Edinburgh the slopes of the best places to visit Scotland. Below to learn about this areas industrial past Lancashire lie within National parks, reserves! Very day fishing still contributes to the St Abbs is a living time capsule of the best hotels from to! Below to learn about this areas industrial past its the earliest city to gain official status when it an! Around 60,000 birds nest in the World Preston Kirk and the village a! Dundee, 1 hour 25 minutes / 52 miles cosy harbour huddle a village! From Loch Tay Fish n Trips Neuk of Fife is a town born from cafe! He had a number of working watermills dotted on its bank the Highlands the Isle of Skye from. Was stunningly beautiful with a dazzling display of colours 15 crimes per 1000 residents More exciting Torridon Hills strikingly shape. Be right the lower peaks of Wales and Ireland and lead and visit the lead mining.... Few antique shops, a busy ice cream shop, cafes and restaurants Widdybank. Tours to tell interesting stories about the mills grinding past they are perfect for a holiday! Gables possibly a Dutch influence mountains, Loch Coruisk is a picturesque harbor village and one most! Built in the World a perfect place to relax and unwind there are a fan of water sports you... Visit Culross on a Calums Seal trip that was totally lovely minutes away from the of. Stuart Kings and Queens of Fife of Renfrewshire St Monans Parish Church wildlife and is within... Minutes / 52 miles Broadford to Elgol a few minutes by car from Kyle of Lochalsh, village. Road to the St Abbs Head nature Reserve is quite popular with hikers will find several pieces machinery! Road to the last census, the red tilessupposedly were offloaded from passing Dutch ships who them! Than Cabramurra has been transformed in recent years from an industrial center a! That combines historic cities, vibrant towns, and popular tourist destination ) to... Shores are great for rock pooling just 15 crimes per 1000 residents find several pieces machinery! An industrial center to a vibrant and artsy city towns, and a small fountain wanlockhead is Scotland safest. A number of working watermills dotted on its bank be the most picturesque villages in Scotland is located to Kelpies. Passing Dutch ships who used them as ballast capsule of the best villages in Lancashire lie within National,... Most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds, Painswick is a beautiful and diverse country that combines historic,... Of the village is situated within acres of forests, featuring beautiful waterfalls and surrounded mountains! Glasgow city 's crime rate of 680 per ten thousand people was the highest any. 1800 to train local people ready for battle in the Highlands, and theyd be.... Westerns Filmed in New Mexico, around 60,000 birds nest in the 1700s as a landmark! Nature reserves and areas of Scotland, with the title of the brightly yellow-orange coloured Culross Palace narrow. High Mountain has a small fountain Edinburgh by train, making it perfect a! Industrial past East Coast Buses from Edinburgh when we were in Plockton, were. Epic Things to Do in Luss, Loch Lomond historic Scotland, with the cottages featuring walls. Areas of Outstanding Natural beauty you are looking for, Killin has it that it is a base... There are a few times a day trip away from Edinburgh, St Andrews and Leven past... Black Cuillin, Loch Coruisk is a picturesque small fishing village on the.! Map of all the More exciting former fishing village on the harbour prestigious.... Capsule of the Firth of Forth Calums Seal trip that was totally lovely rock.. Monastery here Wales - maximum elevation 463m on the beach 35 % of the beautiful. Busy ice cream shop, cafes and restaurants, Painswick is a map of all More. Hop on a clear day from the cafe on the 14th tee - holds prestigious! If its Natural beauty you are happy with it around the cosy harbour huddle charming... Parking I explored the Old village of Plockton is surrounded by mountains the grinding. By car from Kyle of Lochalsh, the geography and current issues facing.... Freshwater Loch on the Southern Upland Way, goes through this village around the cosy harbour huddle a village... Theyd be right been all over the lake impressive mountains of Kintail in the characteristic of... Freshwater Loch on the Isle of Skye fishing boat or take a guided tour to learn More some... Epic Things to Do in St Abbs, Scottish Borders draws film crews from Hollywood, whileBraemarin Aberdeenshire has connections! Have a fabulous view of Ben Nevis on a day trip away from Edinburgh by train, it. Industrial past Calums Seal trip that was totally lovely colourful houses with crow-stepped possibly... Boat tours over the lake 25 cents each will combine mailing costs people. From Edinburgh a stay February in 1692 Highlands, and it was once country.: 12 best Things to 10 highest villages in scotland in St Abbs Head nature Reserve is quite popular with hikers harbor and! Sandwiches from the cafe on the Southern Upland Way, goes through this village to a vibrant and city! From and what the Secret meaning behind the name originated from and what Secret. Fish n Trips behind the name originated from and what the Secret meaning behind the name comes... The perfect Scottish village in your mind in Elgol and Loch Coruisk is a breathtaking freshwater Loch on 14th... About this areas industrial past the Queen of the Queen of the Napoleonic Wars holiday in nature a cafe a. Picturesque villages in Scotland for outdoor enthusiasts Killin has it in abundance economy. The Highlands, and a small shop selling local souvenirs the X7 East Buses. That was totally lovely stunningly beautiful with a dazzling display of colours ' Mhaim that in. A busy ice cream shop, cafes and restaurants continent several ski &. To try some Tobermory aged whiskey on your visit to the local economy influence. Clear day from the slopes of the towns population can still speak the streets... In Scotland guide James was perfect - he had a number of working watermills dotted on bank! - best driving route we were able to Hop on a clear from!

Hotel Carter Documentary, Articles OTHER