Welcome to the Ultimate Scotland Travel Guide, your comprehensive resource for exploring the captivating wonders of Scotland. Whether you’re drawn to the misty landscapes of the Highlands, the vibrant cities steeped in history or the enchanting islands scattered along the coast, this guide is designed to provide you with everything you need to make the most of your Scottish adventure. From ancient castles to picturesque lochs, from lively festivals to tranquil hiking trails, Scotland offers a diverse array of experiences that will leave you awe-inspired. So, grab your tartan, prepare to delve into fascinating folklore and let us be your trusted companion as we embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Scotland.
Facts about Scotland
Planning your trip
Places to visit
Airports in Scotland
Getting around in Scotland
Useful links and information
To be safe, check with your travel agent or airline before travelling.
Scotland is part of the United Kingdom and to enter the United Kingdom, foreign visitors need a passport. Irish citizens may continue to use their national ID card after 1 October 2021.
Some visitors to Scotland might need a visa to enter but this will depend on your Citizenship. If you’re a citizen of a European Economic Area (EEA) member state (27 countries of the European Union, together with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) and many other countries including the USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand, you don’t need a visa to visit the United Kingdom or Scotland.
You can check here if you need a UK Visa: https:// www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa
You could also contact your local Scottish embassy/ consulate before you travel to find out your visa requirements.
Most everyday items will be allowed but there are some such as firearms that would not be allowed. There are also restricted items with limits on the amount you can bring such as alcohol and tobacco. The rules are different depending on where you are travelling from. You can find out more from the UK Government’s advice on bringing in goods. https://www.gov.uk/duty-free-goods .
Your airline is always a good source of information in this regard.
Personal medicine can be brought but you do need to declare it to UK Customs. Medicine should be carried in a labelled container as provided by your pharmacist and a letter from your doctor confirming the need for medication is a good idea.
There might be restrictions on any medicine you bring, so before you travel, seek advice about the requirements from HM Customs and Exercise. https://www.gov.uk/travellingcontrolled-drugs
Scotland’s official currency is the pound sterling, known as the pound (£, GBP) like in the rest of the United Kingdom.
The most common banknotes are £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100. It is also possible to find £1 notes, although these are extremely rare. The coins in circulation are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p and £1 and £2.
In Scotland you use both Sterling banknotes issued both by the Bank of England and Scottish banknotes. Scottish banknotes will always be accepted in Scotland, but in some parts of the UK they are not as easily accepted, so we recommend to use your Scottish banknotes as much as possible while in Scotland and reserve the Bank of England pounds if you’re planning to visit the rest of Britain.
It is well advisable to change some currency in your home country where you can go to your local bank and get good exchange rates, well in advance of your visit.
Getting cash when travelling is as easy as going to your local ATM (automated teller machine), these machines are plentiful in most cities and work with most banks. Check your withdrawal limits with your bank before you leave your country and make sure that you remember your PIN.
You should also be aware of the fees that might be levied for cash withdrawals. Another safe way to carry money is payment cards such as credit cards, debit cards, travel cards etc.
You should be able to pay at most restaurants and shops with your card. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted credit cards in Scotland.. American Express and Diners Club are accepted by most major hotels, but are less commonly accepted elsewhere.
Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted. You’ll probably have to change the checks at a bank and pay a fee for the privilege, so this is not an option that we would recommend.
Travel Insurance is a necessity for any overseas trip and the amount you require is related to the amount of risk that you are willing to take on. What Does Travel Insurance cover and what are the costs?
A packaged policy solution could cost from 4-8% of your trip cost and would include coverage for delays or cancellation of trips, medical costs when on your trip, baggage claims etc. You could also add additional coverage like pandemic coverage, medical evacuations and more. The more options you add, the higher the cost of your policy.
There is good news though, a lot of you might already have some coverage. If you are using a credit card for travel or have homeowners or renters insurance, travel insurance might be already included.
Talk to your insurance company and credit card provider to find out what might already be covered. We recommend purchasing travel insurance for a vacation package.
If you ever purchase a vacation package or use a tour operator then you should definitely make sure that you have travel insurance. An unexpected closure of any travel company leaves many travelers high and dry.
Trip operators, airlines, cruise companies, even travel agents, offer travel insurance plans, however most of these policies have a mark-up, or the coverage isn’t as good as a third-party insurer. Compare policies before purchasing any insurance and make sure that you have read the contract including the fine print.
You can buy travel insurance any time before you depart on your trip but it is best to buy travel insurance just after securing the flights, accommodation or other details of your trip. The reason being that if something happens to the airline or tour company making them go out of business most travel insurance policies cover pre-existing conditions.
Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain,[mainland Scotland has a 96-mile (154 km) border with England to the southeast and is otherwise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west, the North Sea to the northeast and the Irish Sea to the south.
The country also contains more than 790 islands, principally in the archipelagos of the Hebrides and the Northern Isles. Most of the population, including the capital Edinburgh, is concentrated in the Central Belt – the plain between the Scottish Highlands and the Southern Uplands – in the Scottish Lowlands. Scotland is divided into 32 administrative subdivisions or local authorities, known as council areas.
Glasgow City is the largest council area in terms of population, with Highland being the largest in terms of area. Limited self-governing power, covering matters such as education, social services and roads and transportation, is devolved from the Scottish Government to each subdivision. Scotland is the second largest country in the United Kingdom, and accounted for 8.3% of the population in 2012.
• The official animal of Scotland is the Unicorn.
• Scottish men wear kilts. The kilt is the traditional dress of Gaelic men and boys in the Scottish Highlands.
• The bagpipe is Scotland’s national instrument. First traces of the bagpipe can be detected back to around 1400.
• Scotland has approximately 790 islands, more than 600 are uninhabited.
• Scotland is home to the oldest tree in Europe. It is a twisted yew, and it has been around for 3,000 years.
• Scotland is home to the tallest waterfall in Britain, named Eas a’ Chual Aluinn. It is 658 feet, which is 3 times the height of Niagara Falls.
• There are over 600 square miles of freshwater lakes or lochs in Scotland.
• The Edinburgh International Festival is one of the largest performing arts festivals in the world. The festival attracts over 400,000 people annually.
• Edinburgh was the first city in the world to have its own fire brigade.
• St. Andrew’s Links is known as the “home of golf.” Golf was invented by the Scots.
• Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, not the capital, Edinburgh.
• Charles Macintosh, who was born in Glasgow invented the raincoat,
• You can take the shortest commercial flight in the world in Scotland.
• The journey from Westray to Papa Westray in Orkney takes just 47 seconds.
• The first-ever international association football game was played between Scotland and England in 1872 and was played at the West of Scotland Cricket ground in Partick. The match was watched by 4,000 spectators and ended as a 0–0 draw.
• The Encyclopedia Britannica originated in Scotland.
• It can be said that the Scots invented the modern world. Scotsman Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in February 1876 whereas, Scottish engineer John Logie Baird created the world’s first TV picture on October 2, 1925.
• The world’s first colour photograph was taken in Scotland. The picture in question is a Tartan Ribbon.
• There are as many people with Scottish heritage living in the US as there are in Scotland.
Scottish kilts are known as ‘The National Dress of Scotland’ and have deep cultural and historical roots. Kilts are a sacred symbol of patriotism and honour for a true Scotsman. Kilts are made of tartan, worn around the waist and accompanied by a sporran, which is a small bag worn over the kilt, a kilt pin which holds the two pieces of tartan together at the front, and a sgian dubh, a small dagger which sits in the sock.
The kilt originated in the 16th century and the first kilts were thick, woollen full-length garments whose upper halves could be worn over the head as a hood, or as a cloak draped over the shoulder. It wasn’t until the late 17th or early 18th century that the knee-length kilt was developed and was worn throughout the Highlands and northern Lowlands.
The unique design of the kilt allowed for freedom of movement which is essential in the Highlands of Scotland where the weather can become very damp. Not only did the wool protect against the rain and skin but it could easily be removed and used as a blanket at night.
When the Highland regiments of the British Army adopted the design it skyrocketed in popularity and over the centuries has developed to include pleats and brightly coloured tartan patterns, unique to the clan to which the wearer belongs.
During the 19th century, Scottish kilts often used family tartan and were worn as a form of ceremonial dress at occasions such as weddings, sporting events and the Highland Games. Nowadays, the kilt is recognised the world over and is worn by many for both formal and informal occasions.
Hogmanay is an important part of the Scottish calendar being part of the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Many of the old Hogmanay traditions have been carried through the generations and remain part of the celebrations today and are celebrated all over Scotland.
The strike of midnight: As in many parts of the world, the main event of New Year is when the clock strikes midnight and thus the main custom of Hogmanay is partying with friends and family as soon as the clock strikes midnight; bells are rung, many towns and villages have street parties and fireworks are set off.
Immediately after midnight, it is traditional for everyone to stand in a circle, cross over their arms and hold hands with people on either side singing Robert Burns’
‘Auld Lang Syne’.
“Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot and auld lang syne
For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne,
We’ll take a cup o kindness yet, for auld lang syne.”
It is tradition and a bit of superstition that after midnight, to ensure good luck for a household, the ‘first foot’ over the threshold should be a dark male, taking with him symbolic gifts such as coal, shortbread, salt, black bun and a wee dram of whisky.
Gifts like these will ensure that the household will be safe, warm and have enough food for the year. People take his custom very seriously and blondes and redheads are considered to be bad luck. The dark-haired male bit is believed to be a throwback to the Viking days, when a big blonde stranger arriving on your door step with a big axe meant big trouble, and probably not a very happy New Year!
It was considered bad luck to go into the New Year with a dirty house and Redding the House is a New Year’s Eve spring clean. In particular all fireplaces needed to be cleaned.
While The Burning of the Clavie has its roots in these rituals, it celebrates a much more recent occurrence. A law was passed that outlawed the practice, calling it “superstitious, idolatrous and sinfule, an abominable heathenish practice,” but some villages still held the festival anyway. Whilst the rest of the UK rioted and demanded back their 11 days, the town of Burghead decided to celebrate New Year’s on both the 1st and the 11th of January, getting the best of both worlds.
The Clavie is a half-barrel filled with wood shavings and tar, nailed onto a carrying post with, importantly, the same huge nail each year. This barrel is then lit and carried on the shoulders of a local through the village, a prized position handed down through the family, followed by a large crowd stopping at the houses of residents to present them with a smouldering ember from the barrel to bring the household good luck for the year ahead.
The unique, constant sound of the bag, usually made out of sheepskin, creates and stirs exhilarating emotions and can be heard from far away.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a unique and memorable celebration of music, dance and military pageantry which is held against the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh Castle,
The Tattoo dates back to 1950 and has become a showcase of military talent of the British forces and their counterparts from around the world, attracting audiences of about 220,000 at the event and around 100 million on television.
The legend of the Loch Ness monster has been bringing people to the dark expanse of Loch Ness in the Highlands for centuries. There are over 1,000 documented eye witness accounts dating back to AD 565, and with a wealth of unexplained evidence, the famous mystery of Nessie lives on to this day.
Scientists believe the monster to be a myth but really what do they know? This enormous creature is said to have a long, thin body, with one or more humps protruding from the water, and a snake-like head.
She is shy though, so you need to be quick to snap a picture before she swiftly disappears into the depths of the loch.
One of Scotland’s greatest sporting traditions is the Highland Games. Between May and September, watch this quintessentially Scottish custom across the country at over 80 different events and see competitors put their muscles to the test wearing their national dress, the Scottish kilt.
Scotland’s Highland games are usually one-day events taking place in outdoor spaces across the country. Built around traditional Highland sports such as the caber toss, tug o’ war and the hammer throw, a Highland games event also includes Highland dancing and music, and lots of family fun such as food and craft stalls and games.
Many events will also involve livestock events, parades and even best-dressed pet competitions. Some Highland games continue into the night with more music gigs, ceilidhs and discos.
Amongst the games there are masses of bands, with pipers and drummers marching in unison, solo piping competitions and Highland dancers giving dazzling displays including the famous Highland fling.
The Highland Fling is a solo Highland dance that gained popularity in the early 19th century. The word ‘Fling’ means literally a movement in dancing. In John Jamieson’s Etymological Dictionary of the Scottish Language, 1808, the Highland Fling was defined as ‘one species of movement’ in dancing, not as one particular movement.
This dance is now performed at dance competitions and events around the world. One goal of dancers today is to stay in the same spot throughout the dance. The Highland Fling is danced at almost all competition levels, from primary to premier.
It is also performed for Highland and theory examinations. Dancers wear the standard kilt outfit to perform this dance.
The best time to visit Scotland is during spring (late March to May) and autumn (September to November). Temperatures are warmer by spring, with averages of 6°C-15°C, although there will still be snow in the mountains of the Highlands and the Cairngorms.
The summer months (June through August) are the warmest of the year, with extensive daylight hours in July and August the further north you go. Summer is a very busy time but the crowds begin to disperse from the last two weeks in October. Autumn is a great time to see the spectacular seasonal foliage.
Parts of Scotland have snow conditions in winter and this can make travel a bit more tricky but the winter scenery and atmosphere with roaring log fires is something to experience.
• January: Pack for average highs of 5°C (41° F) and lows of 1°C (34°F). January averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 24 days of rain.
• February: Pack for average highs of 6°C (43°F) and lows of 1°C (34°F). February averages 50 mm (1.97 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 20 days of rain.
• March: Pack for average highs of 9°C (48°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). March averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 22 days of rain.
• April: Pack for average highs of 11°C (52°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). April averages 44 mm (1.57 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 22 days of rain.
• May: Pack for average highs of 14°C (57°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F). May averages 50 mm (1.97 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 21 days of rain.
• June: Pack for average highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F). June averages 60 mm (2.36 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 20 days of rain.
• July: Pack for average highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 11°C (52°F). July averages 70mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 20 days of rain.
• August: Pack for average highs of 19°C (66° F) and lows of 11°C (52°F). August averages 50 mm (1.97 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 21 days of rain.
• September: Pack for average highs of 16°C (61°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F). September averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 19 days of rain.
• October: Pack for average highs of 13°C (55°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F). October averages 80 mm (3.15 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 23 days of rain.
• November: Pack for average highs of 9°C (48°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). November averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 21 days of rain.
• December: Pack for average highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). December averages 70 mm (2.75 inches) of rain throughout the month, with 21 days of rain.
Layers are a good idea. In Scotland the weather could change every five minutes, so it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality. The best way to be prepared for all types of weather conditions is to layer.
Pack an outer, waterproof shell jacket, a thick and warm inner layer, and a thinner inner layer. There Will Be Rain and Wind.
In Scotland you know that at some stage, you will get wet. We suggest a pair of high-quality gumboots/rubber rain boots.
It is no coincidence that a Glasgow man invented the raincoat, so make sure you have one. When you’re packing for Scotland and looking at temperatures, you might be tricked into thinking Scotland has a temperate climate in the winter. Temperatures of 5 or 6˚C / 41 to 43˚F aren’t that uncommon through the winter. Temperature wise, you’re right that Scotland is relatively temperate.
However, when you factor in the wind, everything feels that much colder. Plan to include wind-proof and wind-blocking items in your Scotland packing list.
What kind of coat you pack for Scotland depends on two things: when you plan to visit Scotland (the season), and what you plan on doing while you’re there.
If you’re planning a trip where you’ll spend most of your time in cities and towns, you’ll probably care a bit more about finding a travel coat that nails that difficult balance between stylish and functional. If you’re planning to be out of the cities more, exploring Scotland’s boundless nature and beautiful islands, style may take a backseat to function.
You will need rubber boots, walking shoes and a pair of shoes should you wish to dress up in the evening.
• Thin Base Layer – A relatively warm long sleeve shirt would work.
• Socks – Make sure you have good wool socks
• Jeans, and warm leggings for the ladies.
• Long underwear – This is really only necessary if you plan to do some outdoor activities, like hiking. If you’re mostly in the cities, skip this to save space.
• Thin Base Layer – Cotton T-shirts, or long sleeve shirts
• A light sweater or two.
• Jeans, and leggings for the ladies.
Now that we’ve hopefully helped you to figure out what to wear in Scotland, it’s worth considering what else you may need.
• An electrical adaptor (and possibly, converter). You will need an electrical adapter for the 230v three pronged outlets used in the UK.This will be the same for England, Ireland, and Northern Ireland, but different to the rest of Europe.
• Camera – be prepared to take lots of photos.
Scotland’s biggest city has many excellent museums, art galleries, and festivals that attract tourists year-round.
Situated on the River Clyde on Scotland’s west coast, the city of Glasgow has, in the last few decades, reimagined itself as a major European cultural center.
On foot Glasgow is a joy to explore thanks to its many lovely parks and pedestrian-friendly streets, especially if you also take in Glasgow cathedral and the famous Glasgow School of Art.
Be sure to explore the Riverside Museum, this superb modern facility focuses on the history of transportation in the city through its large collections of vintage steam engines, trams, buses, carriages, cars, and seafaring vessels. There’s even an authentic reproduction of 1930s shops and homes.
Glasgow has the reputation as the cultural capital of Scotland and any visitor should not miss a play at the King’s Theatre, partake in a little opera at the home of the Scottish Opera in the Theatre Royal, or a classical concert at the Royal Scottish Orchestra at the Concert Hall.
Also visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, notable for its displays of local art, and the wonderful Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style Gallery with its diverse collection that includes works by Van Gogh and Salvador Dali.
Scottish Ballet is the national ballet company of Scotland and one of the five leading ballet companies of the United Kingdom, alongside the Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Northern Ballet.
Founded in 1969,the company is based in Glasgow, the resident ballet company at the Glasgow Theatre Royal and from 2009 in their purpose-built ballet centre in Tramway Arts Centre, Glasgow.
The Highlands have managed to capture the imagination of not only travellers but also those watching movies and TV shows, the most well known of these would be the popular Outlander series.
The Highlands is an area of outstanding natural beauty stretching from Inverness in the east to John O’Groats in the north.
Your trip to the Highlands should start in Inverness and Loch Ness where you might spot the famous monster.
The nearby ruins of Urquhart Castle should also not be missed. Loch Ness is part if GlenMore and the Caledonian Canal, a feat of modern engineering.
The coastal town of Dornoch should not be missed and Aviemore is a popular winter ski destination. In warmer weather, the region is popular for the hiking and biking adventures available in the Cairngorms National Park.
This sparsely populated area is also great for other outdoor experiences, including sea kayaking, white-water rafting, gorge walking, and fishing. A road trip along the North Coast 500, a coastal route popular with tourists is a great idea.
Any golf lover knows that St. Andrews is the home of golf and an essential pilgrimage for the lover of the game..
Golfers from around the globe make the pilgrimage to St. Andrews’ seven classic links courses, drawn by the prestige of playing the world’s oldest golf course.
The nearby British Golf Museum is a modern facility and something of a shrine to the greats who’ve played the St. Andrews’ courses, as well as detailing the history of the sport over the centuries.
St. Andrews is not only the home of golf but also a famous university town. The old buildings associated with the University of St. Andrews are worth exploring. The ruins of St. Andrews Castle and the town’s old cathedral are also worth exploring.
There are so many things to enjoy in Inverness and surely you have heard of the Loch Ness Monster. Exploring Inverness should start at the grounds of Inverness Castle and you can then follow the river Ness towards Ness Islands.
There are beautiful park areas to enjoy. Attractions in Inverness include St, Andrew’s Cathedral as well as the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. Other sights include the Botanic Gardens, finishing up at Victorian Market for a spot of shopping. Loch Ness remains shrouded in myth and legend,
No credible evidence has ever been found regarding the Loch Ness monster but hope for a sighting remains.
But even without a monster sighting, you won’t be disappointed. Thanks to its starring role in movies and on TV – most recently in the hit series, Outlander – places like Urquhart Castle are enough to make the journey to this Highland attraction worthwhile. Built in the 1100s, the castle now lies in ruins after being devastated by fire some 500 years ago.
Easy to get to from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, Loch Lomond is a great base from which to explore Scotland, Loch Lomond is the largest body of freshwater in the UK and the scenery is breathtaking. Boat tours are very popular and so is visiting the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre or SEA LIFE Aquarium.
One of the best places to explore the Scottish countryside as it is situated almost half way between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Stirling Castle is famous for once being a royal palace where Mary Queen of Scots spent her childhood here. The Bannockburn Heritage centre commemorates the historic Battle of Bannockburn. It was here that Scottish king Robert the Bruce defeated the English army.
You can also visit the nearby Wallace monument and learn a bit more about the legendary William Wallace.
A port city on the North Sea, Aberdeen should definitely be on your list. It is a great city to explore on foot, has fantastic architecture as well as many delightful parks and gardens.
St. Machar’s Cathedral is one of the best-preserved examples of medieval architecture construction in Scotland. It was built in the 1300’s and well worth a visit. Many of the old homes and merchant buildings made from the unique local granite that seems to sparkle in sunlight, gives Aberdeen its affectionate Silver City nickname.
Aberdeen is also called “The Flower of Scotland.” because of all the lovely green spaces in the city, most notably the David Welch Winter Gardens at Duthie Park. Here, you can wander one of the biggest indoor gardens in all of Europe, Aberdeen also has more than two miles of beaches worth exploring.
The island is a tourist hotspot with many great restaurants, hotels and resorts. Located just off the mainland from Glasgow and reached via a scenic one-hour ferry ride, this 429-square-kilometer island is therefore perfect either for a day trip from Glasgow, a weekend break, or an extended vacation.
You can tour the island by car, bike or use local bus services. There are many things to explore including historic castles, sand beaches and fishing villages.
You can also climb the local 873-meter Goat Fell Mountain. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts with magnificent views over Arran and the Firth of Clyde toward Glasgow, as well as northward toward Mull of Kintyre. Brodick Castle is another popular tourist attraction.
Also spend time exploring Brodick Castle, a popular tourist attraction for its displays of period furniture and its grounds, which house an authentic iron age dwelling. There are also plenty of great restaurants on the island, as well as good hotels and resorts.
If you are looking to explore Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest mountain and the unspoiled highlands then Fort William is the perfect starting point.
Fort William is best known for the Glenfinnan Viaduct, often recognized from numerous Harry Potter movies (among other films) as the route the Hogwart Express took when whisking young wizards to school. Why not join one of the steam excursions?
Skye is one of the top locations in Scotland to visit. It is famous for its scenery and landscapes that will take your breath away.
The Island of Skye is 50 miles long and the largest of the Inner Hebrides. The capital is Portree. The Island has a rich History covering many topics, such as: Dinosaur Fossils, Clan Warfare, Highland Clearances and the infamous ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ and the Jacobite Rebellion.
Both Clan MacDonald and Clan MacLeod have their Clan Castles on the Island and should be on your list of places to visit. Wildlife is plentiful on The Isle of Skye with the White Tailed Sea Eagle at the top of bird watchers lists. You can also see otters, seals, whales, dolphins and red deer amongst other things,
Skye is a world class destination for walkers and climbers. ‘The Cuillin Range’ and ‘The Trotternish Ridge’ offer challenging climbs and interesting scrambles. Man-made attractions include the attractive Armadale Castle.
Located near the ferry port of Mallaig, this early 19th-century edifice is set in the heart of a huge country estate and features excellent displays and artifacts related to one of the most powerful of Scotland’s historic clans, the Donalds.
Also worth a visit is Dunvegan Castle. Once the seat of the MacLeod clan, it’s located in the village of the same name and is a great place to embark on a boat tour or fishing excursion.
Over half of Scotland’s malt whisky distilleries can be found in Speyside, the northeast corner of the Scottish highlands. The lush, fertile valley of the River Spey is undoubtedly the heart of single malt whisky distilling in Scotland.
In order for it to be classed as Scotch Whisky there are certain requirements. That’s why Speyside is known as a ‘protected region’ for Scotch Whisky distilling under UK Government legislation. King George IV was a fan of Scotch Whisky from Speyside and the royal association continued with Queen Victoria who gave a standing order that all royal coaches should carry a bottle of whisky under the coachman’s seat in case of an ‘emergency.’
For such a small sub-region of the Scottish Highlands, Speyside offers a wide range of stunning whiskies. The location is well suited for it attracting tourists from across the world to see for themselves where their favourite whiskies are made.
William Grant & Sons is the most recognised brand yet they not only produce Scotch Whisky but also a few more brands we think you’ll know and love. The abundance and quality of its water is the principal reason why whisky distilleries have flocked to the Speyside region.
The Speyside distilleries are often sorted by specifying the river they are near (Spey, Bogie, Deveron, Findhorn, etc.), or by the whisky-producing district where they are located: Bogie, Livet, Deveron, Dufftown, Fiddich, Findhorn Valley, Inverness, Isla, Lossie, Rothes, and Strathisla. A trip to Scotland would be incomplete without a visit to the Speyside.
Scotland is serviced by several international airports with connections to most major destinations around the world. Direct flights from North America will give you a choice:
• If you are flying to Scotland from North America you will have a choice between Edinburgh airport and Glasgow airport, but you could first fly to London, Manchester or Dublin and purchase a connecting flight to Scotland.
• If you are flying from the East coast of America expect a flight time between six to seven hours, from the west coast of America expect a flying time of nine to eleven hours flying time.
From Asia or New Zealand / Australia the best is to get a connecting flight in the Middle East and connect to London, Glasgow or Edinburgh, Regular services run out of major business hubs like London and Frankfurt.
With London only an hour away and Frankfurt only 90 minutes, Flying is also a great option if you are short on time, or heading to islands such as the Outer Hebrides, Orkney or Shetland.
The cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh are both served by frequent direct train services from London and other cities in England. Virgin Trains East Coast depart from London King’s Cross station and run up the east coast via Peterborough, York and Newcastle to Edinburgh.
The travel time from London varies from 4.5 to 7 hours. There are a number of other services to various cities in Scotland. More information: https://www.scotrail.co.uk/
Renting a car and driving is a great way to see Scotland and the country has an extensive road network that makes it easy to get around.
Please be aware that in Scotland, as in the rest of the UK, driving is on the left side of the road.
Scotland is home to some of the most scenic railway lines in the world and a train journey can be a great experience. The country is home to an extensive and well-developed rail network that not only serves cross-country links throughout Scotland but also regular connections to the rest of the UK as well. Most trains are also equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you stay connected when travelling,
Scotland has an extensive network of coach and bus routes all over the country and it is a great way to travel around. More information: https://www.transport.gov.scot/ Ferry
There really is nothing quite like seeing your destination on the horizon, and approaching the spectacular island or tucked-away peninsula by ferry.
Both passenger and car ferries operate in Scotland, and larger islands are often served by a number of routes.
Speed limits are often signposted – look out for a circular sign, with a red border and number (in miles per hour). If there’s no signpost, national speed limits apply.
Motorways: • 70 mph (112 km/h) for cars. • 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.
Dual Carriageways: • 70 mph (112 km/h) for cars. • 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.
Built-up areas: • 30 mph (48 km/h) • Be aware though, it’s quite common around residential areas and particularly near schools, for a clearly signposted 20 mph (32 km/h) maximum speed limit.
Outside built-up areas: • 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars • 50 mph (80 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.
What licence do I need to drive in Scotland? If you’re coming from a European Union country – as long as you have a valid licence, you can drive any type of vehicle listed on your license in Scotland.
If you’re coming from outside the EU – as long as you have a valid licence from your own country, you can drive any small vehicle (eg car or motorcycle) in the UK for up to 12 months.
Scotland has numerous options for visitors with great quality hotels, resorts, bed and breakfast as well as self catering accommodation and camping options,
• Edinburgh – best for short breaks. …
• Ullapool – best for explorers. …
• Aberdeen – best for night owls. …
• Dornoch – best for golfers. …
• Inverness – best for history buffs. …
• Cowal Peninsula – best for wildlife watching. …
• Rannoch Moor – best for walkers.
All major booking sites are operational in Scotland and the best option is to book online, We suggest Tripadvisor as a preferred option.
Scotland has as well developed food culture more than just a night out, Scottish food and drink is the very lifeblood of Scotland’s culture and economy.
With rolling, rural hillsides, clear coastal waters and lush, fertile lands, Scotland produces some of the best, and most sought after, natural produce in the world.
From mouth-watering Aberdeen Angus steaks, to world-renowned seafood such as wild trout, salmon, oysters and langoustines, not to mention our water of life – whisky – the ‘Made in Scotland’ stamp has become synonymous with taste and quality.
Hand-dived scallops, Aberdeen Angus beef, Ayrshire potatoes and the soft fruits of Fife are just some of the ingredients that Scottish chefs have to work with. Scotland has an abundance of local butchers and fishmongers, as well as farm shops, food festivals and farmers markets all of which are great places to go to pick up tasty treats so you can cook up your own dishes.
The national dish of Scotland is haggis, a savoury meat pudding, and it’s traditionally accompanied by mashed potatoes, turnips (known as ‘neeps’) and a whisky sauce.
The national drink of Scotland is whisky which is produced in more than 100 distilleries. The Scottish love then sweets and nothing can be more traditional than shortbread or a Scottish tablet. Savoury dishes include Scotch broth and black pudding.
There are plenty of options when it comes to eating out in Scotland. All manner of restaurants, traditional pubs, cosy cafés, elegant tearooms and down-to-earth takeaways can be found across the country.
• 40 bottles of Scotch Whisky are shipped overseas each second (yes, that’s right!)
• More Scotch Whisky is sold in one month in France than cognac in a year
• Over two thirds of the world’s langoustines are sourced in Scotland
• Scottish Salmon was the first foreign product to gain France’s prestigious ‘Label Rouge’ quality mark
• Scottish lobsters are on the menu in over 20 Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo alone
Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and one of its 32 council areas. Edinburgh is Scotland’s second-most populous city and the seventh-most populous city in the United Kingdom.
Recognised as the capital of Scotland since at least the 15th century, Edinburgh is the seat of the Scottish Government, the Scottish Parliament and the highest courts in Scotland. The city’s Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. The city has long been a centre of education, particularly in the fields of medicine, Scots law, literature, philosophy, the sciences and engineering.
It is the second-largest financial centre in the United Kingdom, and the city’s historical and cultural attractions have made it the UK’s second-most visited tourist destination attracting 4.9 million visits, including 2.4 million from overseas in 2018.
Edinburgh’s official population estimates are 488,050 (mid-2016) for the Edinburgh locality,518,500 (mid-2019) for the City of Edinburgh council area, and 1,339,380 (2014) for the wider city region – Wikipedia
In this guide we will explore some of the best things that Edinburgh has to offer for the tourist..
SUMMER The best time to visit Edinburgh is the summer months, June through August when the weather is best. This is also the city’s busiest time for tourism, especially in August when festivals fill up the calendar.
• Edinburgh International Science Festival
• Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival
• Edinburgh Art Festival
• Edinburgh Festival Fringe
• Edinburgh International Festival
• Edinburgh International Book Festival
• Edinburgh International Film Festival
• Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August)
In winter the crowds are less and accommodation is less expensive except during the city’s New Year’s celebration,
• Edinburgh Christmas Market
• Cocktails at Twenty Twenty
• Waverley Festival Village The Dome Cocktails (George Street)
• Christmas Lights Switch On
• Ice Skating at George Street
• Edinburgh Botanical Gardens Light Trail
• Edinburgh Castle at Christmas
• Edinburgh Castle at Christmas.
SPRING / AUTUMN I
In Spring and early Autumn the weather is also fairly mild and you can still find some good hotel and travel deals. If you are in Edinburgh during autumn be sure to check out the International Storytelling Festival which is an autumnal celebration of storytelling – both traditional and contemporary.
Autumn also means Bonfire Night on the 5th November, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, this is marked with fiery celebrations as hosted by Edinburgh Meadowbank Sports Centre. Spring is a great time to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens. It is also a good time to visit with children as the Edinburgh Science Festival and Edinburgh Children’s Festival are on.
Language; The main language is English
Electricity: The voltage in Britain is 220/240 AC, 50 Hz. Electrical plugs have three rectangular pins and take fuses of 3, 5 and 13 amps. Visitors from abroad will need an adaptor for appliances that have been brought from home, such as laptops, hairdryers and phone chargers.
Most hotels will have twopronged European-style sockets for shavers only.
Currency: The official currency of Scotland is the British Pound so you will need to exchange currency before your trip or at a local currency exchange.
Most international bank cards will work everywhere in Edinburgh
Travel Insurance. Make sure that you have the relevant travel insurance before travelling, check with your local travel agent what you will need.
Note: Pack an umbrella!
Most international visitors will arrive in Edinburgh via Aeroplane
ARRIVALS FROM AUSTRALIA
Several Australian cities offer connecting flights to Edinburgh. One of the most popular airlines from Sydney (Sydney Kingsford Smith) to Edinburgh is British Airways.
Other airlines include Etihad Airways, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Delta Airlines, Virgin Australia and American Airlines.
ARRIVALS FROM NORTH AMERICA
Visitors from the United States will find direct flights to Edinburgh from the following North American cities: New York – Delta Airlines provides direct flights between Edinburgh and New York JFK. United Airlines and Air Canada both offer direct flights from Edinburgh to Newark Airport Chicago – United Airlines provides direct flights between Edinburgh and Chicago O’Hare. Toronto (Toronto Pearson International Airport) to Edinburgh with Air Canada rouge.
There is a large range of low-cost airlines that fly from numerous destinations including Spain, France, Italy, Ireland, Germany, Belgium and many more countries. The most popular low-cost carriers include Easyjet, Jet2, Ryanair, FlyBe and Norwegian.
TRAVELLING WITHIN BRITAIN
A range of British cities offer direct flights to Edinburgh’s main airport including British Airways, EasyJet, Flybe and Ryanair. Travellers should search online booking platforms for the best airline deals.
Edinburgh is a compact city which is easy to find your way around although we would advise against driving yourself.
Edinburgh is a fantastic city to discover on foot. You can cover most of the city with a 20 to 30 minute walk, The most important item to remember when walking is good umbrella as the weather can change very quickly, Edinburgh has good cycle routes and most major roads have marked bike lanes and traffic lights often have stopping boxes to allow cyclists to stop and start more safely.
Edinburgh has extensive bus routes covering the entire city and its outskirts, Most festival venues are either on or nearby at least one main bus route, and the Night Bus services will help you get to your accommodation even in the wee small hours. Make sure that you have the right change when buying a ticket on the bus as buses don’t give change.
Edinburgh’s tram runs from Edinburgh Airport to its terminus at York Place in the east end of the city centre. There are regular stops on the line, The tram offers regular stops on its route including on Princes Street and at Haymarket Train Station in the West End. Tickets are available at ticket vending machines on all tram platforms as well as via the Transport for Edinburgh mobile app.
Black cabs and other taxi services are available throughout the city. The traditional taxi (usually black, but not always) can be picked up at one of the ranks or flagged down in the street. Ride services like UBER are also available in Edinburgh.
If travelling in your own car, you’ll need to be aware of parking restrictions throughout the city. There are some pay and display car parks, as well as a number of short-term on-street ticketed parking areas.
There are a huge variety of accommodation options in Edinburgh. Hotels of all varieties and quality, Bed and Breakfast as well as a range of self catering apartments. Your best option is to start planning well in advance via a good booking site such as Tripadvisor
Whether you base yourself in the heart of the city, or go for a pad outside the centre, Edinburgh offers great transport links that will make it easy for you to get around the city or visit further afield.
Scotland has a great food culture and a variety of unique dishes only made in Scotland.
Some of its cooking is influenced by foreign cuisine, especially French cuisine.
What constitutes a Full Scottish Breakfast is a little arguable.
There is a standard list of items you can expect to find when you order your Scottish breakfast.
Definitely something you should try before starting your day exploring Edinburgh!
Haggis is probably the most famous Scottish dish and the national dish of Scotland, Haggis is a kind of savoury pudding made of sheep’s heart and lungs mixed with onions and oatmeal. This is spices and then encased in the sheep’s stomach and cooked for several hours.
Tatties are mashed potato and neeps are diced or mashed swede. This is normally served with Haggis.
Both of these could be smoked or Haddock could be battered as in Fish and Chips.
This meaty vegetable soup is perfect for a cold night in winter. Ingredients are lamb, carrots and swedes.
A crab based seafood soup.
This bird is very similar to partridge Desserts Shortbread: A buttery biscuit baked at a low temperature.
A rich flavoured fruit cake. Cranachan: A traditional Scottish dessert made from whipped cream, whisky and raspberries.
In Edinburgh, the opening times of restaurants and fast-food places are very similar to other North European countries.
Lunch is normally served between 12 noon and 2 pm and dinner begins at 6 pm and finishes at 8:30 – 9 pm. It can prove difficult to find a restaurant with an open kitchen after 9 pm.
The most interesting areas to find restaurants or places to eat would be Princess Street and the Royal Mile as well as Rose Street.
At One O’Clock every day, except Sundays you can set your watch when you hear the firing of the Gun from Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle was recently voted the top UK Heritage attraction in the British Travel Awards and should be right at the top of your list of places to visit in Edinburgh, Perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, Edinburgh Castle houses important Scottish artefacts, such as the Honours of Scotland, which are the oldest crown jewels in the UK, and The Stone of Destiny; an ancient symbol of the Scottish monarchy. For more information or to buy online tickets: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/
Holyrood Park is a short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in the heart of the city. It is a 640 acre Royal Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace and is open all year round,
Within the park you can visit St Anthony’s Chapel – a 15th century medieval chapel, Salisbury Crags – a series of 150 foot cliff faces dominating Edinburgh’s skyline as well as Duddingston Loch – a freshwater loch rich in birdlife.
The highlight of your visit would be Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano, and sits 251m above sea level giving an excellent view of the city;. This is one of four hill forts dating from around 2000 years ago. With its diverse range of flora and geology it is also a site of Special Scientific Interest. It is also the site of a large and well preserved fort. Visit the official website for more details: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-aplace/places/holyrood-park/
Standing proudly in Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument is one of the most iconic Edinburgh landmarks, a must-visit for tourists and locals alike. Dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, it is one of the largest monuments to a writer anywhere in the world. The tower is 200 feet 6 inches (61.11 m) high and has viewing platforms reached by a series of spiral staircases giving panoramic views of central Edinburgh and its surroundings.
The highest platform is reached by a total of 287 steps. It is built from Binny sandstone quarried near Ecclesmachan in West Lothian. It is placed on axis with South St. David Street, the main street leading off St. Andrew Square to Princes Street, and is a focal point within that vista, its scale being large enough to screen the Old Town behind. Its location appears more random when seen from the south side and Princes Street Gardens, but it dominates the eastern section of the gardens through its scale and elevated position.
Hosted in one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings, visit and come face to face with the people who shaped Scotland’s past, present and future, from Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, to contemporary figures such as Karen Gillan and Alan Cumming.
Explore the outstanding National Collection in its bespoke 19th century home, from the suite of grand, top-lit galleries to smaller, intimate rooms, and discover the Photography Gallery and the atmospheric Victorian Library.
The Gallery has new and featured exhibitions all the time and their website is the best source of information on what is currently on.
Visit the Café Portrait for lunch or even just a coffee break, this family-friendly venue is one of the best cafés in Edinburgh.
Admission is free but tickets must be booked in advance. Official website: https://www.nationalgalleries.org/
The flagship Johnnie Walker Princes Street is a must-visit destination on your city break to Edinburgh. The venue is spread over eight floors and has become a local hotspot with dining experiences, bars and a whisky retail area.
You can also book a personalised whisky experience. Enjoy world-class cocktails and incredible views of the Edinburgh skyline at the 1820 rooftop bar.
Visit the National Museum of Scotland, one of the best indoor attractions in Edinburgh. And, best of all, entry is free. With over 20,000 unique artefacts to see, there’s something for everyone, and fun for all the family.
Spend the day learning about the catacombs of Egypt, the wonders of nature and even modern-day technology.
The National Museum of Scotland, is rated one of the UK’s top 10 visitor attractions. Official Website: https://www.nms.ac.uk/scotland
The Edinburgh Dungeon is an award-winning, 70- minute interactive and immersive, underground walk-through experience which brings 1000’s of years of Scottish history to life!
Why not come and experience the ultimate underground journey where you can see, hear and smell Edinburgh’s murky past! From the dark shadows of the Black plague to Sawney Bean the cannibal.
Come face the notorious characters from days gone by. Recommended for ages 8 and up, the Dungeon is located in the heart of Edinburgh minutes from Waverley Station.
Official website: https://www.thedungeons.com/ edinburgh/
The Festival Theatre is located centrally and stands on the site of the old Empire Theatre and opened in 1994, boasting the largest stage of any presenting house in Britain at the time.
Today, at just over 2,500 square feet it is the largest performance area in Scotland, second only to the Royal Opera House in the UK, and is established as one of the country’s most prestigious venues.
It is the home for Scottish Ballet and Scottish Opera, and at the heart of the Edinburgh International Festival. Official website: www.capitaltheatres.com Scotch Whisky Experience Take a sensational journey through a replica distillery, before your expert guide imparts the secrets of the Whisky regions.
Finally, you’ll choose your perfect ‘dram’, and taste it in The World’s Largest Whisky Collection. This is a great way to get a Scotch Whisky Experience if you do not have the time to visit the Speyside distilleries themselves.
When traveling to Scotland, there are several useful websites and links that can provide valuable information and assistance. Here are some recommendations:
Remember to consult official government websites or local authorities for the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and safety guidelines specific to Scotland.
For more information on Scotland and your Scotland trip visit www.lovetovisitscotland.com
Download your Ulitmate Scotland Travel Guide by Clicking Here – or on the image below
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