Guide to Scotland. How much does a vacation in Scotland cost? Banks, money, exchange offices

Scotland - the most detailed information about the country with photos. Attractions, cities of Scotland, climate, geography, population and culture.

Scotland

Scotland is a country in the north of the island of Great Britain, which is part of the state of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. It borders on land with England and is washed by the seas of the Atlantic Ocean: the North (in the east) and the Irish (in the west). The capital of Scotland is Edinburgh, and the largest city is Glasgow. The country has a stunning authentic atmosphere, rich traditions and wide autonomy.

Scotland is one of Britain's most beautiful places, boasting magnificent dramatic landscapes of rugged mountains and green valleys, picturesque hills, fields, forests and rugged coastline. Here, history surrounds you almost everywhere, revealing the secrets of legendary battles, romantic ruins and old stone churches. Scotland is a country of stunning diversity, where you can find almost the full range of tourist attractions: beautiful medieval cities, fairytale castles and stunning natural landscapes. But the main highlight of Scotland is the solitude of remote moors and islands, wild mountains and secluded sandy beaches.

Useful information about Scotland

1. Population - 5.3 million people.
2. Area - 78,722 km2.
3. Languages ​​are English, Gaelic and Scottish.
4. Currency - pound sterling.
5. Time - UTC 0, in summer +1.
6. The UK is not a party to the Schengen agreement. A visa can be obtained by visiting accredited visa centers in person, which are located in Moscow, Novosibirsk, St. Petersburg, Rostov-on-Don and Yekaterinburg.
7. The political system is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy.
8. The predominant religion is Presbyterianism (a branch of Christian Protestantism).
9. Electrical voltage - 230 V, 50 Hz.
10. Car traffic is on the left. Drunk driving is not permitted. Most intersections have roundabouts.
11. The most popular souvenirs are whiskey (scotch) and kilt. A real kilt is made of wool and is quite expensive (300 - 400 pounds).

Geography and nature

Scotland occupies the northern part of Great Britain. Its territory is approximately equal in area to the Czech Republic. The country is washed by the seas of the Atlantic Ocean: the Northern and Irish. Scotland is separated from the island of Ireland by a strait. Despite all the diversity of nature and relief, the country’s territory can be divided into three physical-geographical regions: the North Scottish Highlands (occupies the north and west), the Lowlands and the South Scottish Highlands. In the central part of the Highlands there is the largest mountain range in Scotland - the Grampian Mountains (including the highest point in Scotland and Great Britain, Ben Nevis, 1344 m high).

In terms of relief, Scotland is a country of low mountains and hills. The North Scottish Highlands occupy 60% of the country's territory, and the South Scottish Highlands - 20%. As a result, Scotland has many unspoiled natural landscapes. The country has a significant sea coast (the length of the coastline, not counting the numerous islands, is almost 10,000 km). The west coast of Scotland is mainly characterized by rugged coastlines, reminiscent of Scandinavian fjords, and cliffs. To the east, the coast, on the contrary, has smoother contours and numerous sandy beaches. The coastal waters also include more than 700 islands, which are grouped into the following groups (archipelagos): Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides.

Scotland is famous for its many picturesque lakes and small rivers. Largest rivers: Tay, Spey, Clyde, Dee, Don, Tweed. The largest lakes: Loch Lomond (the largest lake in Great Britain by area), Loch Ness (the largest by volume), Loch O. Scotland also has stunning and diverse nature: rugged mountains with fast rivers and waterfalls, meadows and coniferous forests, heathers and heaths, plains and a picturesque coastline with fjords and sandy beaches.

Climate

Most of Scotland has a temperate maritime climate. It is characterized by cool summers and springs, rainy autumns and relatively mild winters. Everyone is familiar with the variability and unpredictability of Scottish weather, where you can experience all four seasons in one day. Although, in fairness, it should be noted that extreme temperatures are rare.

Best time to visit

Spring is a truly wonderful time to visit Scotland, although it can be a bit chilly (average temperatures between 4 and 12°C). Summer is the peak tourist season with comfortable weather (average temperature from 12 to 20 °C) and an abundance of cultural events. Autumn is a beautiful time of vibrant colors, perfect for visiting castles and parks (average temperatures range from 7 to 14 °C and can be a little rainy). Winter is a low tourist season, which has its own charm (average temperature from 2 to 7 °C).

History of Scotland

Scotland's history is rich and varied, fascinating and complex. The Romans and Vikings (Normans), the Anglo-Saxons and the British tried to subjugate its territory. The first written records of Scotland date back to the beginning of the Roman conquest of Britain. Although in the 1st century AD. The Romans occupied only the southern part of the country. The north was inhabited by Picts and Gaels, free from the power of Rome and quite warlike. The Romans called these lands Caledonia, and their inhabitants Caledonians.

In the 1st century AD Roman troops managed to defeat the Caledonians. In 122-126, the Romans built a chain of defensive fortifications (Hadrian's Wall), the purpose of which was to protect the British provinces. A few decades later, the chain of fortifications was moved even further north (deeper into Scottish territories). These defensive structures were abandoned at the beginning of the 3rd century under Septimius Severus.

In the early Middle Ages, several kingdoms were formed in Scotland. The largest and most significant state was the kingdom of Fortriu, which was also called Scotland. In 843 the united Kingdom of Scotland was created. Over the next centuries it expanded approximately to its modern borders. In the 9th and 10th centuries, French and Anglo-Saxon settlers began to move to Scotland, bringing the English language and a new culture. By the end of the Middle Ages, the country was divided into a lowland part, where Scottish English was spoken, and a highland part, where traditions were strong and Gaelic was spoken.

One of the most difficult periods in the history of Scotland was the 13th century, when the direct line of inheritance was cut off in 1290. John Balliol eventually became king, supported by the British. In gratitude for this, the new king recognized England as overlord. After John's coronation, several Scottish nobles did not recognize his authority. Also, the English king Edward I began to consider Scotland his vassal. In 1295, John opposed the British. In response, the English monarch declared him a rebel and invaded Scotland. In 1296, English troops defeated the Scots and the country lost its independence.

In 1297, the Scots rebelled and defeated the English. In 1298, Edward I led an invasion in person and again defeated the Scots. Subsequently, the fight against English rule was led by Robert I the Bruce, who was crowned in 1306. In 1314, the Scots defeated the English troops led by Edward II. After the death of Robert I, a struggle began between his son David II and Edward Balliol. David was able to retain the throne, but died childless. In 1371, Robert II of the Stuart dynasty, who ruled Scotland for the next three centuries, was crowned.

In 1502, England and Scotland signed a peace treaty, which the Scots violated in 1512. In 1560, a peace treaty was concluded between the two countries, which put an end to three centuries of hostility. In 1603, King James VI of Scotland inherited the English throne. From this time begins the history of Scotland as part of the United Kingdom.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Scotland flourished thanks to trade. The Industrial Revolution turns the country into a major industrial and scientific center. Meanwhile, calls for autonomy are becoming stronger. Industrial development affected, to a greater extent, only the southern part of the country. The north of Scotland was poor, so many residents emigrated in search of a better life to the USA, Canada and Australia.

Industrial development in Scotland continued until the First World War. After the war there was a serious decline, which intensified after the end of World War II. In the 20th century, Scotland's industry was reoriented towards innovative and knowledge-intensive production. Parliamentary elections were held in 1999, which emphasized the autonomy of the region. In 2014, a referendum on Scottish independence was held, which more than half the population voted against.

Administrative division

Historically, Scotland was divided into counties, parishes, fiefs, etc. The modern administrative division of the country is 32 districts. Only seven settlements have city status: Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Stirling, Perth and Inverness.

Regionally, Scotland can be divided into:

• The border areas are the south-eastern part of Scotland, which is a rolling plain with beautiful ancient settlements, ruined abbeys and historic sites.
• South-West Scotland is a picturesque rocky coast of the Irish Sea.
• Central Scotland is the most urbanized region of the country, where most of the population lives and a huge part of the cultural heritage is concentrated.
• North East Scotland is a picturesque, diverse region led by Aberdeen from the Grampian Mountains to the sandy beaches of the North Sea.
• The Highlands of Scotland and the north-west coast are a rugged region with stunning nature and an authentic atmosphere.
• Island groups: Shetland, Orkney and Hebrides.

Population

More than 80% of Scotland's population is ethnically Scottish. About 8% consider themselves English. Other large diasporas: Irish, Poles, immigrants from Asian countries. In Scotland they speak three languages: English, Gaelic and Scots. Most of the population professes Presbyterian Christianity, although there is also a large proportion of Catholics.

The Scots are a very proud nation, so you shouldn't talk to them about politics and draw parallels with England. They respect their history, their desire for independence and are very irritated by the nickname "Jock" or "Scotch". The Scots are reserved, persistent, persistent, prudent and thrifty. They do not really like to express their feelings and from the outside they may look gloomy and unfriendly. But this is only until the Scot gets to the pub.

Transport

Transport map of Scotland

Major airports in Scotland:

• Aberdeen Airport. It has air connections with the following cities: Alicante, Amsterdam, Dublin, Bergen, Copenhagen, Paris.
• Edinburgh Airport. Regular flights to the following cities: Abu Dhabi, Alicante, Barcelona, ​​Basel, Berlin, Bratislava, Dubrovnik, Dusseldorf, Gdansk, Geneva, Krakow, Lisbon, Lyon, Madrid, Prague, Paris, Vilnius, Marseille, Nice, Munich, New York, Milan, Venice, Rennes, Reykjavik, Rome, Zurich, Toulouse, Budapest.
• Glasgow Airports. They have air connections with the following cities: Alicante, Amsterdam, Berlin, Calgary, Copenhagen, Heraklion, New York, Toronto, Paris, Philadelphia, Vancouver, Girona.

No Scottish airport (except Prestwick in Glasgow) has rail access. To get to the city you need to use buses or taxis.

Scotland's railway system is quite extensive and is part of the transport system of the United Kingdom. Most cities in the country can be reached by train from London, Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, and York. It should also be noted that Scotland's railways are some of the most picturesque in the world, so the trip can also be an aesthetic pleasure.

Buses are the cheapest way to get around in Scotland, but the least convenient. The country is also distinguished by a small number of highways. Many roads (especially in the northern part) are quite narrow.

Cities of Scotland

Only seven settlements have city status in Scotland:

• Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and its main cultural center. The city has a stunning historic center with an imposing medieval castle soaring above it on a high rocky peak and striking medieval Gothic architecture juxtaposed with superb examples of modern construction.
• Glasgow is Scotland's largest city with typical Scottish charm and stunning architecture. This is an example of smart modern urban planning, where in the past a large industrial center was transformed into a popular tourist destination while preserving its historical appearance.
• - the capital of Northern Scotland, the largest fishing port and center of the offshore oil industry in Europe. The city is famous for its magnificent granite architecture.
• Dundee is the fourth largest city in Scotland, located in the northeast of the country. This is a large educational and scientific center.
• Inverness is the northernmost city in Britain and the capital of the Highlands of Scotland.
• Stirling is a royal walled city with a stunning castle.
• Perth is an ancient royal city and the former residence of Scottish monarchs.

Sights of Scotland

Edinburgh Castle is one of the symbols of Scotland. The stone towers and walls of this structure have dominated Edinburgh since the 13th century. The castle is built on picturesque basalt rock, houses stunning historical artefacts and offers breathtaking views of Scotland's capital. Below the castle is the famous Royal Mile, a historic street lined with old brick buildings and landmarks.

Loch Ness is one of the most beautiful and mysterious places in Scotland. This deep lake is famous throughout the world for the stories of Nessie (Loch Ness Monster). The ruins of a 12th-century castle on the shore are the center of local legends and stories. The castle fell victim to a fire five centuries after its foundation.

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland's most beautiful medieval castles and a superb example of a Renaissance structure. It has been carefully restored and furnished in late medieval style.

Glenfinnan is an arched railway viaduct. This amazing engineering structure became widely known thanks to the Harry Potter film series.

Cathedral of St. Joanna is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century. This cathedral is Edinburgh's most important religious building and has an interesting (a bit stark) façade. The most remarkable element of its structure is the central tower with eight arched supports that form a kind of crown.

Cathedral of St. The Mungo is a medieval religious building that is the most significant historical monument in Glasgow. This imposing ancient building dates back to the 12th century and is a superb example of Scottish Gothic architecture.

Cathedral of St. The Machara is one of the main symbols of Aberdeen and a superb example of Scottish Gothic. This church was founded in the 6th century by the saint of the same name. Subsequently, a settlement grew around the Christian parish. The current cathedral was founded in 1136 and finally completed in 1552. The interior largely dates from the 14th century.

Beautiful castles of Scotland

Scotland is famous for its whole scattering of beautiful castles.

Balmoral is a magnificent Victorian neo-Baroque castle that is the summer residence of the Queen of Great Britain. The castle was founded in the 15th century and rebuilt as a royal residence in the mid-19th century.

Craigievar Castle is a delightful 15th century medieval castle that belonged to the Mortimer family. It is a fabulous building with small towers topped with conical roofs, gable gables and various decorative elements.

Culze Castle is a magnificent 18th-century earl's castle in southwest Scotland.

Eilean Donan is a picturesque island with a 13th century castle that was built to defend against the Normans. Located at the junction of three lakes in the western part of the Scottish Highlands.

Dunrobin Castle is a majestic castle in the French Renaissance and Scottish Baroque style. Built in the 19th century in the north of Scotland.

Tioram is a ruined medieval castle located on a picturesque loch in Western Scotland.

Cawdor is a medieval castle in northern Scotland, built in the 15th century and mentioned in Shakespeare's tragedy Macbeth.

Accommodation

Scotland is a relatively expensive country to live and travel. The most affordable accommodation option is hostels, which can be found in cities. If you are not afraid of difficulties and lack of amenities, then an excellent option is to stay at a campsite. Bed and breakfasts are also very popular in Scotland and offer a great authentic and welcoming atmosphere. Such hotels can be found even in remote areas.

Kitchen

Scottish cuisine is considered to be rather mediocre. This is not entirely true. Scottish dishes are simple, no frills, but filling and tasty. Popular traditional food:

• Cullen Skink is a hearty and delicious smoked fish soup with cream and potatoes.
• Seafood: langoustines, oysters, scallops, crabs, salmon. In Scotland, Fish n Chips is a very popular dish - fried cod with French fries.
• Scottish beef steak.
• Pheasant baked with vegetables and a few strips of bacon.
• Haggis is one of the most famous national dishes. It consists of sheep entrails (heart, liver and lungs), chopped and baked in the stomach of a sheep (nowadays special bags are often used).
• Scotch Pie is a famous Scottish meat pie.
• Scotch Egg - hard-boiled egg with sausage or ham.

Scotland (especially the Highlands) is home to hundreds of brands of Scotch whiskey. This drink is the pride of the Scots and one of the main souvenirs. Almost every Scottish village has its own brand. The second most popular alcoholic drink is beer (especially ale), which is measured in pints (0.568 liters). An extremely popular non-alcoholic drink is tea and Irn Bru.

Scotland is the fourth region of Great Britain. Distinctive features of Scotland include bagpipes, tartan skirts, Scotch whiskey and the mysterious monster Nessie, who lives in Loch Ness.

The territory of Scotland includes the northern third of the island of Great Britain and the adjacent islands of the Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland. The area of ​​Scotland is 78,772 km², the length of the coastline is 9,911 km. In the south it borders with England. The length of the border from the Tweed River in the west to the Solway Firth in the east is about 96 km. The island of Ireland is located 30 km southwest of the coast, Norway is 400 km northeast, and the Faroe Islands and Iceland lie north of Scotland.

Current time in Edinburgh:
(UTC 0)

The western coast of Scotland is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, the eastern coast by the North Sea. The western and eastern sea coasts of Scotland are connected by the Caledonian Canal, of which the famous Loch Ness is part.

How to get to Scotland

The most logical way to get to Scotland is through the capital - the city of Edinburgh. The most convenient way to get to the capital of Scotland from the continent is by plane. Edinburgh Airport is located approximately 13 kilometers from the city center. There are no direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg, so the flight is only possible with a transfer in the British capital London or another European city. There is an option to get to Edinburgh by train from London. In time it will be about 5 hours. Train Station is located on Princess Street. Using the form below you can select a flight to Edinburgh according to your parameters.

How to get from London to Scotland

By bus

To get to Edinburgh from London by bus it will take about 9 hours. Although the price will be cheaper than using another type of transport. If children are not included in the trip, you can take an overnight flight to save on hotel costs. Transportation is carried out by two companies Megabus and National Express. Buses depart from Victoria Station. There are several options for purchasing a travel ticket. This can be done in advance by purchasing a ticket on the website, which will cost less, or just before departure, but in this case it will be difficult to count on good seats, since boarding is done on a first-come, first-served basis.

By train

The traditional and most convenient way to get to Edinburgh when traveling with children is by train. In addition to comfort, this option will allow you to perfectly explore not only English, but also Scottish landscapes. There are frequent trains to Edinburgh. There are both daytime flights, which are very convenient (on a weekday the journey takes 4.5 hours, and on weekends a little longer) and evening flights, but they are slower and more expensive. Trains to Edinburgh depart from London King's Cross station. The best option would be to buy a ticket in advance online using the Internet, which will be much cheaper than just before departure. The London - Edinburgh route is operated by East Coast.

By plane

If you want or need to reduce travel time, you should take a plane. Travel time will take 1 hour. The price of a flight is quite comparable to a train ticket, and sometimes it turns out even cheaper. However, taking into account the travel time from London to the airport, the total travel time will be comparable to that spent traveling by rail. So what is the “trick” then? Everything is very simple. This method of getting to the capital of Scotland is advantageous if, upon arrival at London Heathrow Airport, you immediately transfer to a plane to Edinburgh. Such transit routes are operated by the British airline British Airways. As a recommendation, provided that the final destination of the tourist trip is Edinburgh, we can advise you to look at the option of a flight that would bypass London. Connecting flights via Amsterdam and Frankfurt are quite suitable for these purposes.

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Climate and weather in Scotland

The climate is temperate oceanic. Thanks to the warm Atlantic Gulf Stream, temperatures in Scotland are higher than in countries along the same parallel, but lower than in other regions of the UK. Due to the uneven surface topography, the weather is extremely unstable. During the coldest months of the year - January and February - the average temperature maximum is 5-7°C. In the warmest months - July and August - 19°C. Average annual precipitation ranges from 3,000 mm in the north to 800 mm in the south. The region is characterized by southwest winds and frequent storms on the coast and islands.

Average climate values ​​for the main cities of the country by month (according to the Yandex.Weather service)

Weather in Scotland in February

Weather in Scotland in March

Weather in Scotland in April

Weather in Scotland in May

Weather in Scotland in June

Weather in Scotland in July

Weather in Scotland in August

Weather in Scotland in September

Weather in Scotland in October

Weather in Scotland in November

Weather in Scotland in December

Reviews by month

January 7 February 2 March 4

April 4 May 13 June 22

July 4 August 32 September 12

October 6 November 5 December 5

Photos of Scotland

Transport

There is a common belief that there is no point in traveling around Scotland without a rental car, which is misleading for those who are unable to get around in this way. Of course, with the help of a car you can get to the most secluded corners of this proud land, however, this does not mean that you will not have the opportunity to fully enjoy the natural beauty when traveling by public transport.

Public transport in Scotland is well developed, it combines all the classic types, from air travel, railways, to ferries and buses. It connects not only large cities, but also sparsely populated and remote destinations, for example, Orkney and Shetland. There is only one significant drawback - the cost of tickets, which can compete in terms of price, perhaps, with the Scandinavian countries.

Air traffic

There are 5 main airports in Scotland, with Edinburgh International Airport and Glasgow International Airport being the busiest.

Inverness Airport is Northern Scotland's largest airport and the main gateway for passengers traveling to the Highland region and offshore islands.

Another airport in Glasgow, Prestwick, is connected to the city by direct rail. Its important feature is that it is the main hub for low-cost airlines operating in Scotland.

Buses

This type of transport is indispensable in cases where you need to get to remote places where there is no railway connection. In addition, this is a fairly convenient and acceptable option for medium-distance travel. The bus network is extensive, covering not only popular routes such as Edinburgh - Iverness/Glasgow/Aberdeen/Isle of Skye, but also connecting major cities with their suburbs, as well as links to cities in other parts of the UK.

The main bus operators serving intercity routes are, and. Tickets can be purchased online (often at a reasonable price), from the driver and at bus station ticket offices. Just as in the case of trains, there are travel cards that will save your budget if you plan to move around the country a lot, for example from Citylink, you can order it in the same way as a regular ticket, on the website (they deliver to Russia) or at bus station ticket offices .

Ferries

More than 60 islands are located off the coast of Scotland, regular connections with which are carried out by several large carriers, dividing the routes among themselves.

Ticket prices are not budget friendly, therefore, in order to limit yourself to small financial losses, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, on the carrier’s website or at the ticket office at the port of departure.

The main companies organizing ferry services are CalMac (or) - they specialize in more than 20 destinations off the west coast of the country; connects the settlements of the Orkney Islands; — organizes ferry services from Aberdeen to Shetland and Orkney Islands; Companies and - organize communication between the ports of the south-west coast of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Districts

Scotland is the most autonomous state of all that makes up the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The decision to divide the country into regions was made in 1996. Since then, Scotland has 32 regions, which are part of 8 regions. In 2011, at the next meeting of the Scottish Parliament, the status of the eight regions, which are described below, was confirmed.

Despite the official division, police and firefighters, as well as ambulances, use their own division of territory.

Central Scotland

The territory, which is located in the center of Scotland, is one of eight electoral regions, geographically occupies part of the Lowlands. It consists of 9 electoral districts.

The borders of the Central Region were finally legalized in 2011. Before this decision of Parliament, the region belonged to 11 districts.

The territory of Central Scotland borders the territories of Glasgow, Lothian, Midland and Southern Scotland.

The main “lure” for tourists in this region was the gigantic (by Scottish standards) freshwater lake Loch Lomond. The lake, surrounded by forests and amazing green landscapes, is covered with small islands. The ferry goes there from Balloch. In Balloch, a small town near the lake itself, entrance to the Loch Lomond National Park. And for those who don’t want to wait for the ferry, you can visit Queen Elizabeth Park. In addition, the fabulous valleys of the Trossachs, the coast of Fife and the Firth of Forth will delight every traveler.

Glasgow region

Glasgow is not only one of the largest cities in Scotland. First of all, Glasgow is the most populous region of Scotland, which includes the city of Glasgow itself.

The central River Clyde gives its name to part of the region called Clydeside.

Glasgow is called a region of contrasts. You can relax from the bustling city in natural reserves protected by UNESCO. The Clyde Valley and its many parks welcome millions of tourists from all over the world every year.

The region is in the center of Scotland, making it one of the most economically advantageous parts of the country.

Highlands and Islands

The Highlands and Islands are the largest region of Scotland. However, the nature of the Highlands is different from the Islands. The temperate oceanic climate gives way to a marine subarctic climate on the shores of the Islands. The region is washed by the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea.

This region includes eight counties, including the following major tourist centers:

Argyll- a picturesque island near the shore. The area around Argyll has the UK's only seawater waterfalls, Laura.

Inverness- one of six cities in Scotland with beautiful ancient castles that have been well preserved to this day.

Shetland Islands. Of the hundreds of Shetland Islands, only 29 are inhabited today. However, they have something to surprise tourists, for example, with their beaches, high cliffs, and excellent whiskey.

Isle of Skye in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, the fourth most populous island in the country. It is here that a traveler is most likely to hear Scottish Gaelic, the native language of Scotland.

Orkney Islands. There are 70 Orkney Islands, of which 17 are inhabited. Most of the islands are very small, but each has something to see for tourists.

Lothian

The name Lothian comes from the name of King Lot - according to legend, the ruler of the Orkney Islands and the lands of Lothian.

This region includes nine counties. The central district is the city of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Of course, thanks to Edinburgh, Lothian is by far the most visited region in Scotland.

One of the best parks in Lothian is the Pentland Hills Regional Park, which is 100 kilometers long. And in the mountainous part of Central Lothian you can go skiing or snowboarding. A traveler can also head to the East Lothian coast, where you can try your luck at golf, because it’s not for nothing that Scotland is called the “home of golf.”

Central Scotland and Fife

The region consists of nine districts. Located in the center of the country. One of the districts is the city of Sterling.

Fife is often referred to as the Kingdom as it was once part of the ancient Pictish Kingdom. The region contains cities popular with tourists.

The Kingdom of Fife has preserved many sites of ancient Pictish culture.

There are six large castles in this area that are accessible to tourists. One of the most famous castles is St Andrew's Castle, built in 1200.

North East Scotland

Includes 10 districts, including Angus, the city of Aberdeen and the city of Dundee.

Dundee is a major port, which, of course, left its mark on the entire region. Tourists love to come to this region to see real sailor villages and walk along the coast.

There are many castles near Aberdeen, and Angus offers beautiful nature. Aberdeen has been one of the Royal Family's favorite destinations since the days of Queen Victoria.

South Scotland

The southern region of Scotland is divided into nine regions. Geographically it borders with England.

Galloway and Dumfries offer a variety of natural landscapes, with valleys, coastlines, mountains, forests and rivers. Galloway is the southernmost point of Scotland. The famous Scottish poet Robert Burns once lived and worked here.

Ayr is a county steeped in history and home to around 40 castles. This district often hosts various music festivals.

West Scotland

The territory of Western Scotland includes 10 counties. The most famous county for tourists in Western Scotland is Cunningham. The county is located on the picturesque coast of the Firth of Clyde, not far from the River Erwin; there is the town of Erwin, famous for travelers, with the same name as the river. In addition, tourists are attracted by the town of Largs, which is famous as the site of the battle between the Scots and the Vikings from Norway in 1263. The region is rich in history and is also very easy to reach from the country's main cities.

In addition, the Scots themselves divide their country into the following territories:

Highlands- occupies the main territory of Scotland.

Speyside- a valley named after the river flowing through its territory. This area is known for some of the finest distilleries throughout Scotland. Although every region of Scotland has its own distilleries, whiskey from the Spey Valley is considered the best.

Islands- this name unites the following islands: Skye, Arran, Jura, Mull, and in the northeast of Scotland the Orkney Islands.

Outer Hebrides- the territory is located in the north of Scotland, an area of ​​Scotland called the Western Isles. Many Scots simply call this area the Island.

Islay is another part of Scotland located on an island. Islay is part of the Inner Hebrides. On its territory there are two regions of Scotland - Argyll and Bute.

Plain. In 1784 the Plain was separated from the Highlands. The British divided the territories so that the inhabitants of the Plain could enjoy simplified taxation on trade. During the Second World War, these territories suffered greatly. Many factories were bombed by the Nazis, farms fell into disrepair. The people of the Plains are restoring the central region to its former glory year after year.

Cities of Scotland

Officially, only six settlements have city status in Scotland.

Capital of Scotland. Edinburgh is famous for its historical monuments, museums, and tourist attractions. The active life of Edinburgh does not stop even at night. What to visit in Edinburgh? You need to live in Edinburgh for at least a couple of weeks to be able to see everything city ​​sights .

The second city after Edinburgh, often mistakenly called the capital of Scotland, it is the industrial, commercial and educational center of Scotland. Glasgow has an unofficial nickname given to it by local residents - “Little Scotland”.

Main attractions of Glasgow:

• Cathedral;
• Glasgow Museums;
• Art Gallery;
• Crookston Castle.

Industrial city. Located on the River Ness. Millions of tourists come to the city every year in search of evidence of the existence of the Loch Ness monster.

What to do in Inverness?

• go to Loch Ness, visit Nessie;
• See the beautiful ancient Inverness Castle - the pearl of the whole region; many films and TV series are filmed there;
• visit the city history museum;
• go to St Andrew's Cathedral.

The fourth largest city in Scotland, it is located in the northeast of the country. Scots come to Dundee to spend a weekend, visit old historical buildings, play golf, or simply admire nature.

Main attractions of the city:

• Glamis Castle;
• St. Mary's Tower;
• McManus Galleries;
• Botanical Garden;
• Mills Observatory.

Aberdeen is a port city. Previously, this city was the residence of the kings of Scotland. The Scots claim that only here you can feel the atmosphere of a real fishing town.

It’s best to start exploring the city from the following places:

• art Gallery;
• parks and gardens;
• maritime museum;
• castles: Craigievar, Balmoral, Drum;
• Cathedral of St. Machar.

The smallest city in Scotland. It is located in the center of the country. Sterling was adored by the Stuart kings and often visited their residence. The city was even the capital of Scotland for some time.

The main attractions of the city:

• Stirling Castle, whose history goes back to ancient times - already in 83 there are records of a fortification in the rock;
• the Welsh Monument, erected in honor of the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1214;
• Holyrood Church;
• Cambuskennet Abbey.

Culture

In August, crowds flock to Edinburgh (the capital of Scotland) for the well-known International Theater Arts Festival, which features hundreds of performances by artists from around the world. And the Fringe Festival offers a more eccentric and original selection of productions, along with the nightly procession of drummers and Scottish musicians of the Edinburgh War Show.

Together with tartan (Scottish wool), whiskey is Scotland's most famous export.

Officially, whiskey has been produced for more than 500 years. Real Scotch whiskey is made only in Scotland. Whiskey distilleries are scattered throughout the country, and many of them are open to visitors who want to see the entire production process and, naturally.

The Highlands region is home to some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery: snow-capped mountaintops and deserted valleys - home to famous whiskey brands Glenmorangie, Glenfiddich and Glen Grant.

Sights of Scotland

Scotland is a country with a rich history and magnificent northern nature. It is not surprising that there is a lot to see in a relatively small area. In addition, there is picturesque medieval Edinburgh, which has many attractions, including the legendary castles of Scotland.

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Where to eat and drink

Entertainment

Parks and Recreation

Transport

Shops and markets

Private guides in Scotland

Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Scotland in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.

Shopping in Scotland

If you are planning to visit Scotland, the first thing you should see is its amazing nature, ancient architecture and unique attractions. Only after this, with a clear conscience, can you go shopping in search of things dear to your heart that will remind you of the days spent in Scotland, as well as souvenirs and gifts for family and friends.

There are many specialized souvenir shops in this country, especially in the capital Edinburgh. It is worth purchasing souvenirs in the city center, since here they are authentic and not at all more expensive than in other places. In Edinburgh, check out The Works, which offers souvenirs at the most affordable prices. The assortment of this shop includes such useful and pleasant “little things” as magnets, plates, guidebooks, books and, of course, Scottish flags of all sizes. National souvenirs and works of art can be found in shops on the central avenue of the capital, the Royal Mile. Edinburgh's shops offer truly unique items, from designer accessories to traditional Scottish crafts and antiques. If you are interested in original branded clothing and shoes, check out Harvey Nichols department store in the center of Edinburgh, and you can look for vintage clothing and accessories in the West End of Glasgow.

What is a must-buy when visiting Scotland? Of course, natural cashmere and the finest wool. Interestingly, cashmere production technology has remained unchanged since the 18th century. Things made from this fabric will be an excellent gift for loved ones, because such material is incredibly soft, warm and does not pill, so you definitely won’t have to blush in front of your friends and family for such a gift. In Scotland's souvenir shops you will be offered scarves, gloves, hats and the famous tartan blankets. We advise you to buy these products in the center - branches of the Edinburgh Woolen Mill specialty store can be found in all cities of Scotland. You may be surprised, but cashmere products in factories will cost even more than in retail outlets. If you are not limited in funds, contact the factory, where they will be able to offer you a wider range: from blouses to coats.

Surely, in the minds of every second person, when Scotland is mentioned, an association arises with the national clothing of the highlanders - the kilt, so not bringing a kilt from this country is the same as not visiting Scotland. Kilts, like woolen products, should be bought in large shops in the city center. A real kilt is made from tartan wool and is not cheap - from 100 to 200 pounds, and if you want to acquire the national outfit of this country in all its details (kilt, shoes, sporran, blade and socks), then such a purchase will cost you much expensive. Fans of exotic music can be advised to purchase a national instrument - a bagpipe, or a souvenir that is easier to transport - a Celtic flute.

Now about Scotch whiskey. It’s available in any store, but it’s worth going to specialized shops where they will not only sell you a bottle of high-quality alcohol, but also tell you in which region it was produced and even let you taste it. You can go on an excursion to the distillery and see the process of producing this elite drink, tasting different types of whiskey. Here you will find a much larger selection than in stores, but the prices will pleasantly surprise you. If you are looking for the lowest price on whiskey, go to your local ASDA supermarket, where you will also be offered discounts in addition to the best price.

What else can you bring from Scotland as souvenirs? Heather honey and the national Scottish dish haggis, which can be brought in in canned form, will help you share the “taste” of Scotland with your loved ones. Also traditionally popular among tourists are souvenirs with Celtic symbols: crosses, medallions, earrings, kiltpins (kilt pins) or brooches.

Compared to Russia and the rest of Europe, prices in Scotland are relatively high, which is typical for northern European countries. Moreover, oddly enough, Scotch whiskey is quite expensive. This situation is due to high taxes, so some types of this alcohol in other European countries can be bought at a price up to 50% cheaper than in Scotland itself. When making purchases in stores and paying with a plastic card, pay attention to the advertisements that are available at the checkout, as goods and services paid for in this way may have a higher price in Scotland.

The opening hours of most Scottish shops are from 9 to 17-18 hours (except Sundays). The biggest rush is observed on Saturday, but on Sunday you may not be able to get into some small shops, since only supermarkets are open, the working day of which begins at 10 or 11 o’clock. During the summer season or pre-Christmas sales, shops remain open until late, and some supermarkets are open 24 hours a day. In small private shops there are no opening hours as such - you need to ask the shop owners about this.

When leaving the country, you can apply for a VAT refund, which is valid for people without Scottish citizenship. The tax refund will be 17.5% of the amount of purchases made in Scotland. In order for you to receive a refund, do not forget to save all receipts when making a purchase and take a Tax-Free form from the seller with the necessary stamps and signatures. At the airport, go to the Global Refund office at customs, provide the completed form, receipts and, of course, your passport. Be prepared for the fact that customs officers may ask you to show the purchased goods, so do not put them away at the bottom of your suitcase. The VAT payment can be made to you on the spot or transferred to your bank card.

If you are going to spend a lot of time in the capital of Scotland, we recommend reading the material “Shopping in Edinburgh”.

Food and drink

Food for local residents of Scotland is a sacred matter. Residents of Scotland are ready to proudly talk about their culinary traditions for hours.

The Scots prepare a lot of thick, rich soups, mainly cereal and meat soups with potatoes, cabbage, and fish soups, such as cullen skink soup with smoked fish. One of the most famous Scottish soups is Scottish meat broth, cooked with barley and vegetables. First courses are usually cooked in meat or fish broth.

The beef here is very tasty, juicy, soft, with marbled veins. And lamb legs are considered the best product in Scotland. Lamb meat is used to make a stew called hotchpotch. The mountaineers did not eat pork for a long time, considering pigs to be dirty animals. Venison is also considered a delicacy.

Scotland's most popular delicacy is haggis. Haggis is prepared from sheep tripe and barley, generously flavored with various seasonings and baked in a sheep or lamb stomach. The haggis is served on a warm platter, along with mashed potatoes and turnip puree, as well as shots of whiskey already poured.

For dessert, they prepare a lot of sweet puddings, buns with jam, muffins, desserts, the simplest of which is crannachan - a dessert made from whipped cream, rolled oats and berries.

Connection

In Scotland, mobile communications operate on GSM. The five largest operators have monopolies in this market: Vodafone, O2, T-Mobile, Orange and Three. If you plan to frequently call Russia from Scotland, the most profitable option would be to purchase a SIM card from one of the local mobile operators. The best rates are offered by Lebara and Lykamobile. The cost per minute for calls to a landline number will start from 5 pence, and to mobile numbers from 9 pence. You can buy a SIM card in stores, mobile operator showrooms, or at any post office; it costs about 5 pounds.

If you plan to talk a lot, but at the same time want to save money, it is better to become the owner of a special tourist SIM card in Russia.

The red telephone booth has already become a textbook symbol of Great Britain. Such pay phones are located everywhere, and you can pay for a call in different ways, be it cash, plastic or a special telephone card, which is available for purchase in almost any store.

When calling from Scotland to Russia, dial 00, then 7 (Russian code) - the area code, then the phone number.

In order to call from Russia to Scotland from a landline phone, you need to dial the following combination of numbers: 810 (this is the exit code), then 44 (this is the country code), then the city code (for example, Edinburgh has 131) and the number. To call from Russia to Scotland from a mobile phone, the combination “81044” is replaced by “+44”.

The most profitable way to communicate is through Skype calls, but this requires an Internet connection.

There are many Internet cafes in big cities - you can easily find them in any area of ​​the city. Free Wi-Fi in large cities is also quite common: it is available in almost all hotels, cafes, restaurants, and other public places.

Safety

In order for a visit to a foreign country to bring only positive impressions, it is worth familiarizing yourself in advance not only with the peculiarities of the way of life in the country and the traditions of the people, but also taking care of ensuring your safety. In particular, a traveler needs to know where to turn in the event of unforeseen circumstances and force majeure that occur in the territory of your host country.

To ensure the safety of residents and visitors, Scotland operates a variety of social services. If you need medical help, NHS Scotland can help. Keep in mind that foreign citizens usually have to pay for medical services provided. That is why, before visiting this country, it is advisable to take out insurance not only against accidents, but also against repatriation and possible incidents. Since Russia is not a member of the European Union, this is definitely worth doing, because even though the NHS provides basic medical care free of charge, you will most likely have to pay a lot for additional services. Going to the dentist in this country will cost you in any case. Please also keep in mind that while clinics carry out treatment from morning until early evening, trauma centers and hospitals are usually open around the clock.

Crime rates in Scotland are fairly low, but don't leave your belongings in busy public places, especially if you have valuables in your bags, and take out travel insurance before you travel. Large sums of money should be kept on a bank card, and jewelry should be kept in the living room safe until a special occasion - wearing them “every day” is simply imprudent. By the way, hotels will not take any responsibility for anything valuable that you leave outside the safe.

There are pickpockets in Scotland, just like in any other country, and they operate where there are a lot of people: in transport, in markets or in shops. If suddenly an unpleasant incident happens to you, you can call the police (as well as the fire department or ambulance) using a single number 999 (or 112 from a landline phone), which work around the clock.

If you have lost something, contact the lost and found office, which is located at bus and railway stations. If your property is stolen, if the stolen item was insured by you, you may be able to receive compensation for its loss. To confirm the fact of theft, be sure to contact the police. And don’t forget to photocopy important documents when planning your trip - especially your passport.

In Scotland there are many insects, mosquitoes and midges, which congregate on the coast and near lakes. Particular activity is observed in April-October, so if you are in Scotland at this time, do not forget to bring
means to protect against insect bites, and also do not go out into bright light at night. Protecting windows with nets will also not be an extra precaution.Go to the service for selecting and booking a hotel in Scotland

Scotland is a state that is part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, located on the island of Great Britain and bordering England. The country is washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea.

Total area – 78,772 sq. km, the population is more than 5,000,000 people, among whom 88% are Scots, 7% are English, the rest are Irish, Poles, Pakistanis, Chinese, Indians, and people from Africa. Most of the population considers itself to be a member of the national Church of Scotland, the rest are Catholics and atheists. The official languages ​​are English, Scottish Gaelic and Anglo-Scottish.

The capital is the city of Edinburgh.

Cities of Scotland

Acquaintance with the mysterious Scotland should begin from the capital - the city of Edinburgh. This metropolis attracts tourists from all over the world with its historical monuments, museums, nightlife, and restaurants. And the world organization UNESCO awarded the city the status of “City of Literature”. A large number of guests gather annually for Festivals - Performing Arts (in August), Conversation Lovers (in October), Festival of Various Arts (in June), International Book Festival (in August), Film Festival (in June), Jazz Festival (in July).

The city of Glasgow is one of the largest in Scotland. This is a city with modern architecture and a large number of natural monuments included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Inverness is an industrial city associated with the name of the Loch Ness monster.

Dundee is home to spectacular scenery, historic sites and golf courses.

Aberdeen is a port city, former Royal residence.

The city of Stirling is the smallest city in Switzerland, in the past it was the capital of the state.

How to get to Scotland

There are no direct flights between Belarus and Scotland.

You can fly with Turkish Airlines, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa with connections in Istanbul, Amsterdam, London, Paris, Frankfurt or Prague.

You can fly to London, and then take a bus, train or plane to Edinburgh.

Your trip to Scotland will be exciting, interesting and unforgettable if you contact the travel company “Spasibo Travel” when planning your trip.

Climate of Scotland

The territory of Scotland is influenced by a temperate oceanic climate. Weather conditions are greatly influenced by the warm Atlantic Gulf Stream.

The average air temperature in summer is +19 degrees, in winter - +5 - +7 degrees (slightly cooler on the coast).

Annual precipitation is 800 mm – 3000 mm depending on the area. It can rain 200 days a year.

In coastal areas, storms are a common occurrence.

The best time to travel around the country is from June to August.

Scotland Hotels

The hotel base in Scotland is at a high level and is represented by all “star” categories, which are quite consistent with reality.

Here you will find excellent service, modernly equipped rooms, quality service and a developed entertainment infrastructure. The average cost of living is from 20 to 320 US dollars, depending, of course, on the number of “stars” on the facade.

A special type of accommodation is accommodation in ancient castles, where you can also practice shooting, falconry, fishing, golfing, and horse riding.

Alternative accommodation options include apartment hotels, Bed & Breakfast hotels, hostels and boarding houses.

Banks, money, exchange offices

The currency of Scotland is the pound sterling, divided into 100 pence (pennies). There are paper notes in circulation in denominations of 5,10,20,50 pounds, coins in denominations of 1.2 pounds and 1,2,5,10,20,50 pence.

Banking hours:

From Monday to Wednesday – from 9.30 to 12.30

Thursday – from 9.30 to 12.30 and from 16.30 to 18.30

Friday – from 9.30 to 15.30

Only branches of large banks are open on Saturday

Closed on Sunday

You can exchange currency in banks and specialized exchange offices (commissions are charged everywhere). ATMs are found everywhere.

Credit cards of the world's major payment systems (Visa, Maestro, Master Card) are accepted for payments in most restaurants, hotels, shops, clubs and even by some sellers in the markets. Travel checks (preferably in pounds) are widely used, but are not accepted as payment for goods and services.

Tipping in Scotland is accepted at 10 – 12% of the total amount of the check, if the service charge is not included in the check.

Tourist safety

The crime rate in Scotland is quite low, but here, too, basic rules of conduct must be observed:

• It is advisable to leave valuables, large sums of money and documents in the hotel safe
• In crowded places, it is recommended to monitor personal belongings and not leave them unattended
• Don't forget to bring repellent on your trip.

Transport

Domestic air services in Scotland are quite well developed. Transportation is provided by FlyBe (the cheapest), British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

The railway communication is at a fairly high level. The trains are modern, comfortable, run strictly on schedule, and offer magnificent views along the route. The cost of travel, for example, from Edinburgh to Glasgow (travel time - 50 minutes) is 13 - 22 pounds.

It is more profitable to purchase passes for planes and trains.

The most convenient way to get to remote places where there is no railway is by bus. The average cost of a trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow, for example, will be around £4. It is more profitable to purchase a Scotish Explorer Pass.

There is a ferry service between the islands. The cost of a trip lasting from 10 minutes to 1 hour will be 5 - 8 pounds, transporting a car is 5 - 6 times more expensive.

Urban transport in Scotland includes buses, metro (in Glasgow), ferries (on the islands). The cost of one trip is 1.2 pounds, a full-day pass is 2.5 pounds.

Taxi is a fairly popular and widespread form of transport. Externally, the cars may resemble black London cabs with a yellow sign on the roof. You can hire a taxi at special parking lots, right on the street, or by phone around the clock. All cars are licensed and equipped with meters. Fare:

• From 6.00 to 22.00 - 3 pounds for the first 1161 m and 20 pence for each subsequent 169 m
• From 23.00 to 5.00 - £3.75 for the first 1161 m, 25% is added to the cost of subsequent ones
• 1 hour wait – 15 pounds
• Maximum baggage charge: £5

In order to rent a car, you will need:

• International driver's license
• Passport (age – from 21 years)
• Credit card

Rental cost - minimum 23 pounds per day + 12 - 20 pounds for fuel and parking. It should be noted that in Scotland you drive on the left.

Entertainment, excursions, attractions

The main attractions of the city of Edinburgh are the building of the modern Parliament and Parliament Square, St. Andrew's Square, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Rosslyn Chapel of St. Matthew, the Forth Bridge, St. Mary's Cathedral, the Royal Theater. It is worth visiting the numerous museums of the city - the Center - Museum of the History of Whiskey, the Museum of Childhood, the Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions. Young tourists will be interested in visiting the Edinburgh Zoo with its daily Penguin Parade and the National Museum. Not far from the city is the Aquarium Center, where you can swim with sharks and swim through a 112-meter long tunnel (the largest in the world), as well as have a great time on Portobello Beach.

When in Glasgow, be sure to visit the Cathedral, Crookston Castle, the Art Gallery and numerous museums.

The main place of pilgrimage for tourists in the city of Inverness is the famous Loch Ness with the great mystery of the Loch Ness monster, which came to us from the 17th century. It would be worth visiting the Nessie Museum, located nearby. To this should be added the ancient castle, St. Andrew's Cathedral and the Historical Museum.

In Dundee, must-see attractions include Glamis Castle, St Mary's Tower, the McManus Galleries, the Botanic Gardens and the Mills Observatory.

The city of Aberdeen is famous for its Art Gallery, Maritime Museum, St. Machar's Cathedral, castles - Craigievar, Balmoral, Drama and, of course, parks and squares.

The castle of the city of Stirling dates back to 83 and today receives a large number of tourists. There are other attractions here - the Wales Monument in honor of the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1214, Holyrood Church and Cambuskennet Abbey.

Ski lovers can have a great time at the resorts of Glenshee and Lecht.

For lovers of active recreation, cycling and mountaineering, Aberdeenshire hospitably opens its doors.

Cuisine and restaurants

The main dishes of Scottish cuisine are:

• Thick, rich soups - cereal, meat and potatoes, fish (for example, with smoked fish)
• Beef, lamb legs, venison (considered a delicacy), fish, shellfish, crustaceans
• Haggis is a dish of sheep's tripe and barley, seasoned and baked in the stomach of a sheep or lamb. Served on a warm platter with mashed potatoes, turnip puree and whiskey
• Sweet puddings, buns with jam, muffins, desserts made from whipped cream, rolled oats and berries

Alcoholic drinks: whiskey.

Shopping and shops

Store opening hours:

From Monday to Saturday – from 9.00 to 17.30 – 18.00

On Sunday - only large ones - from 10.00 - 11.00 to 17.30 - 18.00

From Scotland, as a rule, they bring clothes made of wool and cashmere, bagpipes, souvenirs with Celtic symbols, and kilts - national clothing.

Edibles include canned haggis, heather honey, heather liqueur and, of course, Scotch whiskey.

VAT in Scotland is 17.5%, you can return it by taking a special receipt from the seller (for a purchase worth at least 30 pounds) and presenting it at customs along with the unopened goods.

Customs

Allowed to import:

• Up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 cigarillos or 250 g of tobacco
• Up to 1 liter of strong alcohol and 2 liters of weak alcohol
• No more than 50 ml of perfume and 250 ml of eau de toilette
• Goods totaling up to 180 euros
• Medicines (with a doctor's prescription)

It is prohibited to import:

• Guns and switchblade knives
• Drugs
• Counterfeit coins and banknotes
• Plants
• Obscene materials
• Radio transmitters
• Products (meat, fish, honey, eggs, milk)

Allowed to export:

• 2 liters of wine or 1 liter of strong alcohol
• Up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco

It is prohibited to export:

• Historical values, jewelry, antiques
• Food of animal origin
• Weapons without special permission
• Drugs
• Animals and plants

It is allowed to import pets if you have an international veterinary certificate, a certificate of vaccination against rabies issued at least 7 months before departure, and permission from the veterinary service.

If you haven’t found a suitable vacation option, transfer the hassle of organizing your trip to our professional managers by filling out and they will promptly contact you! We can send you anywhere in the world!

The sights of Scotland are amazing; they are varied and unique. What do you think is the first thing a person should do before going to this country? Get maximum information on what to see in Scotland. This will prevent you from wasting time.

What to see first in Scotland?

The country in question is deservedly one of the most colorful parts of the United Kingdom. Which is not surprising, because it is rich in panoramic views, unique historical and architectural monuments. In order to have time to cover the main attractions of the autonomous part of Great Britain, you need to get to know them in advance.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle - an ancient fortress on Castle Rock

The fortress is located in the city of the same name, namely in its central part at the top of Castle Hill. This attraction is one of Scotland's top attractions, as evidenced by the number of visitors per year. The internal space of the building is divided into three parts - “courtyards”, they are connected by gates. The main value of the described fortress is represented by the source of drinking water; it is protected by the Well Tower in the Middle Court. There is a museum dedicated to museum themes nearby. Great photos can be taken with the Mons Meg cannon in the Upper Yard in the background.

2. Broch of Moosa

Round fortification on the Isle of Mowes Tom Pennington

The structure is located in the Shetland Islands archipelago and is the tallest circular structure dating back to the Iron Age. In Europe, not many monuments from the era of early class history have survived, and the defensive building described is one of them. Despite its age, it is well preserved, so it is considered a strong candidate for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List. When traveling through this area, pay attention to the Broch of Mawes.

3. Royal Mile in Edinburgh

Buildings and shops on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

This landmark of Scotland consists of several streets running in the very center of the city. Their total length is approximately one Scottish mile, and the streets are connected by the famous Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse Palace, which at different times served as the residence of Scottish and British monarchs. In the middle, the Royal Mile intersects with bridges. Once upon a time, merchants, artisans gathered in this part of the city, taverns and even brothels worked around the clock. The Inquisition also met there and important decisions regarding financial affairs were made.

4. Palace of Holyroodhouse

The main entrance to the Palace of Holyroodhouse

During your trip to the UK, do not miss the opportunity to see with your own eyes the residence of Her Majesty the Queen. The building is decorated in Baroque style, and it is located on the famous Royal Mile. The Scottish queen, who lived in the palace, became famous for the fact that her reign was accompanied by murders and numerous conspiracies. How are apartments used nowadays? With a certain periodicity, receptions of national importance are held there, in which the queen herself and members of her family take part. There are also interesting exhibitions on the territory of the palace, offering the opportunity to get acquainted with the history of the autonomous state.

5. Loch Lomond

Landscape of Loch Lomond

This Scottish landmark is surrounded by hundreds of steep hills and medieval castles. The length of the lake is 24 miles, on which there are a large number of islands. The smallest of them periodically disappear during high tides, but the largest ones are inhabited by hardworking Scots for many years. Inchmurrin is a large landmass and ferries often stop near it. The description says that there you can see with your own eyes the ruins of the monastery, Lennox Castle, which was once used as a hunting residence.

6. Isle of Skye

Corner of the Isle of Skye

According to the recommendations of experienced travelers, it is worth visiting only because of the beautiful views. This area belongs to the highlands, where the local population speaks not only English, but also the almost extinct Gaelic language. On the territory of Skye there are several other attractions of Scotland. These are ancient castles, a small fishing port. Many people, going to the island, do not expect anything special. But! Upon arrival, you are amazed at the splendor of the local beauty. You can get to the described area of ​​land from the mainland of the country via a bridge.

See stunning views of Scotland in this beautiful video!

7. Eilean Donan Castle

Romantic Eilean Donan Castle with Loch Duich in the background

This attraction of Scotland is located on the above-described Isle of Skye. Getting there is not easy, but believe me, what you see is worth it. The majestic structure is surrounded by mountains, and it stands directly in the middle of the lake. It would do well for tourists to know that the described castle was repeatedly used as a film set for feature films that gained worldwide popularity. One of these works is “Highlander”. Despite its great age, the castle is well preserved; you can get to it by crossing a stone bridge, which is also not young.

8. Loch Ness

Castle ruins on the shores of Loch Ness

As a continuation of the topic of what to see in Scotland, I would like to draw attention to one of the largest bodies of water in the autonomous state. In terms of area it ranks second, and in terms of water volume it ranks first; its origin is glacial. There are several villages on the banks, as well as the unique Urquhart Castle. There were also artificial islands known as crannogs. This attraction of Scotland became popular due to the existence of a legend about the monster Nessie, who lives in the described area.

9. Luskentyre Beach

Luskentyre beach, hidden in a cozy bay

Its main feature is that with the right lighting, the water near the shore becomes similar to the Bahamas. The sand looks more like talcum powder. During low tides, the bay, hidden from prying eyes, transforms into a beach of gigantic proportions. Don't know where to go in Scotland? Head to Luskentyre Beach, an ethereal mix of shimmering blue streaks and swirling sand. The picture is perfectly complemented by low desert mountains.

10. National Museum of Scotland (Edinburgh)

Glass exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland Karen Bryan

It is not the last place in the ranking of interesting places. The museum was created not just on its own, it is a union of two museums - the Royal and dedicated to antiquity. The exhibits are mostly represented by specimens of local antiquities, history, and culture. There is a part that tells its guests the history of the development of technology, science, world culture, and natural science. This landmark of Scotland is formed by two buildings located in the very center of Edinburgh. Both of them are distinguished by individuality; they managed to preserve their originality, as well as original features.

11. Stirling Castle

Main gate of Stirling Castle

What to see in Scotland in 1 day? Pay attention to one of the largest ancient buildings in the state. It has both historical and architectural significance. The castle is located on a high hill, surrounded on three sides by deep cliffs. If we talk about the defensive function, then in this regard it is located very well. Not long ago, a decision was made to begin restoration work in order to return the castle to its former splendor. It is interesting to know that in the 19th century it was partially rebuilt in the baronial style. Legends say that the castle is haunted, which attracts tourists even more.

12. Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis - the highest mountain in Great Britain

What to see in Scotland? An excellent option is Mount Ben Nevis, which is used exclusively for climbing. But this was not always the case, from 1883 to 1904. on the hill was the observatory of the Scottish Meteorological Society. Thanks to her, reliable information about the weather was obtained. There was also a hotel for tourists there, which explains the presence of a long-trodden path. Guides in Scotland often bring visitors to this place to admire the beautiful surroundings. Those wishing to conquer this peak should keep in mind that weather conditions vary, which can make the climb difficult.

13. Urquhart Castle

A working catapult among the ruins of Urquhart Castle

Thinking about what to visit in Scotland? There is an interesting place on the shores of Loch Ness; it is a castle with an ancient history. It is known that it changed owners many times, and at a certain period of time was even subject to a long-term siege. Today, this attraction of Scotland belongs to the National Trust and is one of the most popular places among tourists. Continuing the review, I would like to note that part of the walls and the main tower have survived to this day. Structures such as the chapel, the large hall, and the kitchen were badly destroyed. You can get there only through a moat, over which there used to be a drawbridge.

14. Cairngorms National Park

Road in the Cairngorms National Park

Today in all of Great Britain it is one of the best natural attractions. Just imagine, there are pine forests, lakes, rivers, Arctic mountains, heathlands. All this is typical for the natural reserve of the United Kingdom. If you are interested in excursions in Scotland, then a park of national significance is perfect. This is a fairly popular place for hiking. It offers entertainment for lovers of mountaineering, winter sports, as well as hunting and fishing in the mountains. 3 of the 5 ski resorts existing in Scotland are concentrated in the Cairngorms National Park.

15. Isle of Arran

Amazing nature of the Isle of Arran

It is deservedly considered one of the most attractive in the country. This island of land is located in the Firth of Clyde. Under the influence of natural forces, the island is divided into two parts, each of which has its own relief. For example, the northern part is characterized by the presence of mountain peaks and waterfalls, but the southern part boasts picturesque sandy beaches and low hills. Excursions in Scotland are often conducted in this direction. On the island itself there is only one road that runs around the perimeter.

Sights of Scotland: what else to visit in Scotland?

It is difficult to list all the interesting places at once, because there are a lot of them on the territory of the autonomous state. Based on reviews , There are a few more worth considering. Continuing the topic of what to visit in Scotland?

16. Culzean Castle

Side view of Culzean Castle

It is a full-fledged historical monument that attracts the attention of tourists. This is a huge building, erected in the 18th century, very similar to a palace. Its highlight is the surrounding park, with even exotic plants growing in it. The castle was once the residence of the Marquises of Eiles, but is now listed in the country's National Trust. As with other buildings of this type, many mystical ghost stories are associated with it.

17. Skara Brae

Dilapidated dwellings of the ancient settlement of Skara Brae

What else to see in Scotland? A fairly well-preserved settlement founded in the Neolithic era deserves attention. On its territory there are 8 houses, united into blocks; they were inhabited a very long time ago. Scientists have come to the conclusion that a certain part of the ancient structures was at one time swallowed up by the sea. Mysterious-looking carved stone balls were discovered in the settlement.

18. Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle on a cliff overlooking Dunvegan Loch

As you can see, the sights of Scotland delight with their diversity. What is the castle worth, standing on a high basalt rock on the shore of Loch Dunvegan. To this day, it is the family estate of the MacLeod family, and the 30th chapter lives in it. Now tourists can see interesting relics there, for example, the Fairy Banner, a cup that belonged to Dunvegan and Rog, and a ceremonial wooden cup. Each has its own version of origin. Within the walls of the castle there is a museum where items that belonged to the heroine Flora MacDonald are on display. Many other historical exhibits are no exception.

19. Melrose Abbey

Cemetery next to the ruins of Melrose Abbey

On the territory of the described state, which is autonomous, there are Cistercian monasteries; Melrose was one of the first to be built. Dedicated to the memory of the Virgin Mary. During its existence, it was repeatedly subjected to destruction, devastation and even arson. But! No one ever spared money for the restoration of the abbey; this also concerned the land, human strength. Don't know what else to see in Scotland? Visit Melrose Abbey, you won't regret it. This place is considered mystical because the heart of King Robert the Bruce was buried there.

20. Isle of Mull

Scenic panorama of the Isle of Mull

The country described is rich in islands, each with its own characteristics. I would like to pay attention to Mull, this is a piece of land from which you can admire the incredibly beautiful panorama of the MacLean family estate in the form of Duart Castle. It is known that it was rebuilt several times; modern tourists can only see the appearance characteristic of the 16th century. The presence of thick walls and powerful fortifications indicates the military purpose of the building.

For those who didn’t know what to see in Scotland, the article should be useful. It contains maximum information about local attractions. As for hotels in Scotland, there are quite a lot of them; there is sure to be an option suitable for comfort and price.