Clackmannanshire
Clackmannanshire is the smallest of the 29 council areas in mainland Scotland. However, its central location in close proximity to Edinburgh and the economic and cultural heart of the country adds importance to the region. Its administrative centre Alloa has a long-established tradition as a thriving river port and industrial centre. The fame of Alloa's glass products and textiles reaches far beyond the borders of the council area. By the way, this is the only larger city in the district and constitutes almost one half of its population. Other significant towns are Clackmannan and Menstrie. The latter is known for its peculiar castle, originating from the 16th Century, which lacks fortification features and looks more like a mansion. Visitors shouldn't miss the impressive Alloa Tower, regarded as one of the greatest and best preserved constructions of this kind in Scotland.