Scotland travel guide

Memory of Scotland

"Still one of the most gorgeous places on earth.  The scenery is magic... I can't begin to describe how beautiful it is... I certainly wouldn't do it justice if I tried... Sheep, highlands, lochs, and rowan trees... just beautiful!"

Jane, Florida, USA

Some of the most beautiful landscape in the world

Scotland is a diverse and extraordinary country, with a rich and fascinating history. The country has nearly 800 islands, only 300 of which are inhabited, and these islands are home to some of the most beautiful landscape in the world. A land of contrasts, Scotland boasts vibrant and exciting cities to visit and breathtaking lochs, mountains and coastlines that shouldn’t be missed. Scotland is bordered by England on the south, the Atlantic Ocean on the west and the North Sea on the east.

Culture & heritage

Every inch of Scotland is steeped in culture and history, something that the Scots are immensely proud of. Scotland has produced some of the world's best writers, painters, sculptors, poets and musicians, and continues to do so. These great talents can often be seen at Scotland's many festivals, most notably the Edinburgh International Festival.

Attractions

Scotland's diverse and exciting history is reflected in many of its attractions. Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the city's Old Town is a must-see. A visit to the Heart of Neolithic Orkney (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is an unforgettable experience, as is a trip to any of Scotland's fantastic Whisky distilleries. And of course, you can't visit Scotland without trying to find Nessie at Loch Ness. 

Shopping

When it comes to shopping, Scotland's cities really shine. If you want to shop for bargains on the high street, head to Murraygate in Dundee. But if you've got a bit more cash to splash on designer labels, Harvey Nichols in Edinburgh's city centre is the place for you. Or if you're hunting for one-off vintage finds, Glasgow's West End is a haven for vintage shoppers.

Sport

If there's one sport the Scottish landscape was made for, it's golf, which was invented by the Scots in the 15th century. Scotland boasts over 540 golf courses to choose from including world famous championship golf courses such as The Old Course St Andrews, Royal Troon, Carnoustie, Muirfield, Turnberry and Gleneagles.

Food & drink

An unspoilt environment, natural ingredients and world-class producers all contribute to Scotland's vibrant, exciting and surprising food and drink scene. Delicious smoked salmon, buttery shortbread, tender Aberdeen Angus beef… you'll find all this and more in Scotland. And as for drink? You can't visit Scotland and not sample a dram or two at The Scotch Whisky Experience .

Music & nightlife

In Scotland, you'll never be far from a traditional pub playing great live music, gig venues and music attractions. And if you're around for events such as St Andrew's Day (30 November) and Burn's Night (25 January), you'll hear a lot more of it. If you want to party the night away at a nightclub, you won't be short of choices in Glasgow, which has over 150 pubs, clubs and bars.

Buy before you fly

To make your trip to Scotland easier, why not buy your travel passes and attraction tickets before you even leave home? With the BritRail Scottish Freedom Pass , you can travel all over Scotland by train. And if you're visiting Edinburgh, make sure you get your Edinburgh Pass , which gives you free entry to 27 great attractions, free airport transfers and free bus travel. For more great offers, go to VisitBritain Direct .