Scotland tours & travel
As you listen to the bagpipes shrill through the highlands, cliffside castles come alive with the ghosts of medieval kings, and Scotland's national treasures transport you to another world.
Scotland is green, studded with looking-glass lochs and replete with seemingly endless wonders. There's the island of Staffa, with its colossal basalt pillars and labyrinthine Fingal's Cave. There's one of the most spectacular rails in all of Europe, the Jacobite Steam Train which passes through the countryside from Fort William to Mallaig. And of course, there's the emblematic Urquhart Castle, crumbling over the banks of Loch Ness.
Scotland travel highlights
Take a ferry around Mull, Iona and Staffa
This historic region is not just the burial site of ancient kings, but the living home to whales, dolphins, seals and otters.
Relish the sites of Edinburgh
Edinburgh's New Town is just one of many places exhibiting this city's architecture, famed for its Georgian terrace houses.
Walk through the scenic Glen Nevis
This valley sprawls beneath the peak of Ben Nevis and has many walking trails through the verdant hills.
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Scotland holiday information
Scotland facts
(GMT) Greenwich Mean Time : Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London
Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type M (see D)
Local culture of Scotland
The people of Scotland are a mixture of Scottish, British and other a number of minority immigrant groups. Only about half of the population are Christian, with over a third claiming no religion at all. The Scottish are famous for their kilts and bagpipes, and today traditional skirling can still be experienced at cultural events. Like the English, the Scottish are considered very polite and formal towards strangers, but unlike their British neighbours, are stereotyped as being somewhat friendlier.
Geography & environment
Scotland is located off the western coast of mainland Europe on the island of Great Britain. The country consists of the mainland, which takes up the top of Great Britain, as well as hundreds of smaller islands. These include the Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands and the Hebrides, in addition to countless mostly uninhabited islets. It shares land borders only with England but is geographically close to Ireland and Norway. Scotland's coasts verge onto the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. Scotland has two major geographical regions: the populous lowlands and the mountainous highlands.
Shopping guide to Scotland
Scotland's tradition of art and craft make for great shopping opportunities. Celtic jewellery-making is one of these crafts, and is a tradition that goes back to pagan times. Charms, necklaces and pendants are made with Nordic designs, Celtic crosses and dragons. Sheepskins are another emblem of Scottish history, beautifully tanned and made into rugs and other items. You'll also find high quality tartan warm enough to keep a fisherman toasty, and Scotch whisky, the country's national drink.
Scotland festival calendar
The Hogmany Festival
New Year in Scotland is a cause for celebration as it is all over the world. At the Hogmany Festival, bells are rung and folk songs are sung, in addition to customary kissing.
The Highland Games
This event celebrates the traditional sports of Scotland. The games include usual suspects like long jump and sprinting, as well as the strange and entertaining sports of tossing the caber and throwing the weight.
The music festival on the Hebrides islands is relatively new, but it's one of the biggest folk festivals in the country.
Food & drink in Scotland
Scottish cuisine is distinguished by the common ingredients of meat, dairy, vegetables and, because they were traditionally unavailable in the region, a lack of spices. Typical dishes include porridge made from oatmeal and milk, served for breakfast with tattie scones made sausages, bacon, eggs and potato. As an island country, Scotland also has a heritage of sea fare, the most famous of which is kippers (smoked herring). Those feeling game during their Scotland tours may like to try haggis (traditional black pudding made with grains and pig's bloods) or the national dish of offal.
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell
Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding
Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson
Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh
Scotland travel FAQs
What nationalities need a visa for Scotland?
Citizens of EU countries, Australia, Canada and the United States have visa-free access to Scotland.
Is tipping in Scotland customary?
Tipping is customary in some situations in Scotland. Restaurant bills usually include an option to add a gratuity. If this option isn't present, it's still common to tip about 10% of the bill. Tipping about 10% is also standard in taxis.
Can I access the internet in Scotland?
You'll have good internet access while in Scotland's major cities and towns.
Will my cell phone/mobile work in Scotland?
You'll have mobile coverage across most of Scotland, except for some rural and remote areas. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.
What are the toilets in Scotland like?
Scotland has Western-style toilets.
How much do things cost in Scotland?
Pint of beer = £3
Simple cafe lunch = £10
Nice meal in a restaurant = £30
Is water in Scotland drinkable?
Drinking tap water is safe in Scotland unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a refillable bottle or canteen with you.
Can I use my credit card in Scotland?
You'll be able to use your credit card at the usual places in Scotland.
Are there ATMs in Scotland?
ATMs are aplenty and are usually internationally connected.
Do I need travel insurance in Scotland?
Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.
What public holidays are recognised in Scotland?
For a current list of public holidays go to: www.worldtravelguide.net/united-kingdom/public-holidays