Scotland Travel Guide & FAQs
If you are planning a trip to Scotland, you no doubt have many questions, especially if this is your first visit to the country. I decided to add this basic Scotland travel guide which covers many of the questions that I get asked most frequently. This page covers some of the general information you need to know before visiting and if you browse around my website you will also find many more detailed resources and in-depth Scottish travel blog posts. You can use this search box if you have a specific query.
Hopefully you find the information in this guide useful in your Scotland trip planning, however if there is anything else you would like to see included just drop me an e-mail.
Hopefully you find the information in this guide useful in your Scotland trip planning, however if there is anything else you would like to see included just drop me an e-mail.
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ABOUT SCOTLAND
Over 5 million people currently call Scotland their home, including me! It may look like a tiny country on the map but it actually covers over 30,400 square miles and has over 11,000, often awe-inspiring, miles of coastline. From the mighty fishing harbours in Aberdeenshire and the pretty colourful harbours of Fife to the miles and miles of secluded white sand beaches of the Outer Hebrides and the sheer cliffs filled with seabirds in the Mull of Galloway Scotland’s coast is diverse.
Of course, we also have over 790 islands. Many of these are inhabited and if you think you fancy a wee ferry journey to an island, or two, or three, then I highly recommend it.
Of course, we also have over 790 islands. Many of these are inhabited and if you think you fancy a wee ferry journey to an island, or two, or three, then I highly recommend it.
Head over to my Scottish Islands page for more information and inspiration
Rugged mountain ranges, spectacular beaches, 7 wonderful cities and an endless amount of fascinating towns and villages make Scotland a pretty special place to visit. Not forgetting the hundreds of magnificent castles, ancient brochs, mystical stone circles, cathedrals and award-winning museums and art galleries which tell tales of Scotland’s rich and often turbulent past.
Rugged mountain ranges, spectacular beaches, 7 wonderful cities and an endless amount of fascinating towns and villages make Scotland a pretty special place to visit. Not forgetting the hundreds of magnificent castles, ancient brochs, mystical stone circles, cathedrals and award-winning museums and art galleries which tell tales of Scotland’s rich and often turbulent past.
If it’s a wee dram of whisky you’re after you are never far from a distillery no matter where you are in Scotland and most will offer tours with a tasting. If you want to spot some wildlife you are in for a treat, with majestic stags, hairy Highland cattle, secretive otters, soaring golden eagles, comical puffins and speedy mountain hares being some of the most popular to spot. Of course, you can’t visit Scotland and not sample some traditional Scottish food, luckily enough we have many amazing restaurants and cafes serving locally produced food and drink.
If you are intending to visit Scotland to see all these wonders for yourself then the information in this travel guide will help you plan your trip. However, if you feel your vacation would benefit from more personal assistance from me, then please have a look at my Scotland itinerary planning options.
If it’s a wee dram of whisky you’re after you are never far from a distillery no matter where you are in Scotland and most will offer tours with a tasting. If you want to spot some wildlife you are in for a treat, with majestic stags, hairy Highland cattle, secretive otters, soaring golden eagles, comical puffins and speedy mountain hares being some of the most popular to spot. Of course, you can’t visit Scotland and not sample some traditional Scottish food, luckily enough we have many amazing restaurants and cafes serving locally produced food and drink.
If you are intending to visit Scotland to see all these wonders for yourself then the information in this travel guide will help you plan your trip. However, if you feel your vacation would benefit from more personal assistance from me, then please have a look at my Scotland itinerary planning options.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
This section covers some of the most common questions and information that I get asked about and includes the following topics -
- Best time to visit Scotland
- Scottish weather
- Average Scottish temperatures
- What to pack for Scotland
- Driving in Scotland
- Public transport in Scotland
- Scottish money and tipping
- Languages of Scotland
- The Scottish midge
- Passports & visas
- Healthcare
- FAQs
BEST TIME TO VISIT SCOTLAND
Choosing the best time to visit Scotland really depends on what you have planned, what you want to see and your budget. There are pros and cons for choosing either summer or winter.
In the summer all the attractions are open, the gardens are in full bloom and the days are long and bright. However, summer is also the most expensive and busiest time to visit.
Winter is the cheapest and quietest time. There is less traffic on the roads as the majority of tourists have left so you can end up having the popular places all to yourself. There are also some excellent winter festivals in Scotland. However, many attractions close down for the season and the weather can be more adverse.
A good compromise is to visit in the shoulder seasons of Spring and Autumn.
Spring is when the attractions are opening their doors for the season, the weather has warmed up a little and the snow roads are unlikely to be closed.
Autumn is also a good time to visit - the light and colours of the landscape are at their best in my opinion.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world's largest arts festival and runs during August. It is a vibrant and exciting time to be in the city and the atmosphere makes it a bucket-list event for many people visiting Scotland. If you do plan to visit just be aware that the roads, accommodation, attractions and restaurants will be a lot busier so book things in advance if you can. If you don’t have an interest in visiting the festival, avoid planning a trip to the city in August as accommodation fills up fast and prices are at a premium.
Another thing you’ll need to watch out for during the Scottish summer is the dreaded midge which I’ll talk more about below. All of these factors should be taken in to consideration when deciding the best time of year to visit Scotland.
In the summer all the attractions are open, the gardens are in full bloom and the days are long and bright. However, summer is also the most expensive and busiest time to visit.
Winter is the cheapest and quietest time. There is less traffic on the roads as the majority of tourists have left so you can end up having the popular places all to yourself. There are also some excellent winter festivals in Scotland. However, many attractions close down for the season and the weather can be more adverse.
A good compromise is to visit in the shoulder seasons of Spring and Autumn.
Spring is when the attractions are opening their doors for the season, the weather has warmed up a little and the snow roads are unlikely to be closed.
Autumn is also a good time to visit - the light and colours of the landscape are at their best in my opinion.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world's largest arts festival and runs during August. It is a vibrant and exciting time to be in the city and the atmosphere makes it a bucket-list event for many people visiting Scotland. If you do plan to visit just be aware that the roads, accommodation, attractions and restaurants will be a lot busier so book things in advance if you can. If you don’t have an interest in visiting the festival, avoid planning a trip to the city in August as accommodation fills up fast and prices are at a premium.
Another thing you’ll need to watch out for during the Scottish summer is the dreaded midge which I’ll talk more about below. All of these factors should be taken in to consideration when deciding the best time of year to visit Scotland.
SCOTTISH WEATHER
The weather is a favourite topic of Scottish conversation and one of the questions I get asked most - and is probably the hardest to answer. Scotland’s weather is interchangeable, to say the least. Sometimes wet, sometimes sunny, sometimes windy, it really is true that you can experience four seasons in one day!
Generally it tends to be cooler the further north you go, although I have had beautiful weather in Orkney while it rained in the south of Scotland. The weather also tends to be drier on the east coast than the west, although, again, while I was living on Bute I could have a lovely sunny day while the east had torrential rain.
As you will have guessed by now, even a local can’t predict what the weather will be in Scotland too far in advance. Our seasons are not as defined as some other countries so snow in the winter is not always guaranteed and summers can be hot and sunny or cool and rainy. Once you are here in Scotland you can check the forecast the night before your planned activities to get a clearer indication - even then it isn't completely reliable. Now you might begin to understand why we locals love talking about the weather so much, it is a constant mystery and surprise!
Another thing to take into account when you are planning your trip is the daylight hours. Our longest day is in June, the ’summer solstice’ when you can experience roughly 17 hours of daylight, depending on where you are in Scotland. At the other end of the scale, if you are here in December and experience the ‘winter solstice’ there will only be around 6 hours of daylight. Don’t let that fact alone put you off visiting in the winter though as there are many benefits which I’ll explain below.
Generally it tends to be cooler the further north you go, although I have had beautiful weather in Orkney while it rained in the south of Scotland. The weather also tends to be drier on the east coast than the west, although, again, while I was living on Bute I could have a lovely sunny day while the east had torrential rain.
As you will have guessed by now, even a local can’t predict what the weather will be in Scotland too far in advance. Our seasons are not as defined as some other countries so snow in the winter is not always guaranteed and summers can be hot and sunny or cool and rainy. Once you are here in Scotland you can check the forecast the night before your planned activities to get a clearer indication - even then it isn't completely reliable. Now you might begin to understand why we locals love talking about the weather so much, it is a constant mystery and surprise!
Another thing to take into account when you are planning your trip is the daylight hours. Our longest day is in June, the ’summer solstice’ when you can experience roughly 17 hours of daylight, depending on where you are in Scotland. At the other end of the scale, if you are here in December and experience the ‘winter solstice’ there will only be around 6 hours of daylight. Don’t let that fact alone put you off visiting in the winter though as there are many benefits which I’ll explain below.
'Today's rain is tomorrow's whisky'
- Scottish weather proverb
- Scottish weather proverb
TEMPERATURES IN SCOTLAND
Scotland has a reputation for being cold and rainy but it is only slightly colder than the rest of the UK. Although Scotland has a northern latitude the temperatures aren’t extreme. However, temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of year and where you are in Scotland. As with everything about the Scottish climate, forecasting likely future temperatures is very unpredictable.
January and February are the coldest months, with mean daily minimum temperatures varying from about 2 °C to less than -1 °C over higher ground. The recorded lowest temperature in the winter was -27.2 °C and the highest being 15 °C.
July and August are the warmest months, with mean daily maximum temperatures at low levels around 19 °C and 16 °C over the higher ground and the islands. However summer temperatures have been known to exceed 28 °C.
January and February are the coldest months, with mean daily minimum temperatures varying from about 2 °C to less than -1 °C over higher ground. The recorded lowest temperature in the winter was -27.2 °C and the highest being 15 °C.
July and August are the warmest months, with mean daily maximum temperatures at low levels around 19 °C and 16 °C over the higher ground and the islands. However summer temperatures have been known to exceed 28 °C.
WHAT TO PACK FOR SCOTLAND
What to pack for a trip to Scotland really depends on what time of year you plan to visit and what activities you plan to do. A good clothing rule of thumb for any time of year is layers thanks to the changeable weather. Summer is generally warmer so you won’t need thermals or snow gear and you won’t need shorts in the winter but no matter what time of year you visit be sure to pack waterproofs.
My recommend basics for summer would include a light, waterproof and breathable jacket. You can wear layers underneath depending on the temperature that day. Long sleeved and short sleeved tops, a light fleece, casual trousers and comfy trainers are fine for days potting about the villages and towns. If you plan on walking some trails then hiking boots, a backpack and a light jacket that is waterproof and windproof are more suitable. I also highly recommend carrying some extra midge spray or a midge net, sunglasses and sun tan lotion.
For winter I suggest bringing a thick, warm and waterproof jacket, which, again, you can layer underneath. Thick hiking socks, fleeces and long sleeved tops along with a warm hat, good gloves and a big cosy scarf. Make sure the hiking boots you bring are fully waterproof too.
Casual clothing is fine for most occasions and establishments, however you might want to include some dressier pieces if you are planning to visit a high end restaurant or a special event.
Some of the other practical things to remember are your camera, charger, a spare battery pack, GB three pin plug adaptors and medication.
My recommend basics for summer would include a light, waterproof and breathable jacket. You can wear layers underneath depending on the temperature that day. Long sleeved and short sleeved tops, a light fleece, casual trousers and comfy trainers are fine for days potting about the villages and towns. If you plan on walking some trails then hiking boots, a backpack and a light jacket that is waterproof and windproof are more suitable. I also highly recommend carrying some extra midge spray or a midge net, sunglasses and sun tan lotion.
For winter I suggest bringing a thick, warm and waterproof jacket, which, again, you can layer underneath. Thick hiking socks, fleeces and long sleeved tops along with a warm hat, good gloves and a big cosy scarf. Make sure the hiking boots you bring are fully waterproof too.
Casual clothing is fine for most occasions and establishments, however you might want to include some dressier pieces if you are planning to visit a high end restaurant or a special event.
Some of the other practical things to remember are your camera, charger, a spare battery pack, GB three pin plug adaptors and medication.
'There's no such thing as bad weather, there's only the wrong clothes. Get yourself a sexy raincoat and live a little'
- great advice from Billy Connolly
- great advice from Billy Connolly
DRIVING IN SCOTLAND
Driving gives you the freedom to explore areas that are away from the usual tourist hot spots. It also allows you to get off the beaten track and find hidden gems you may otherwise miss. In parts of the Highlands and Islands in particular, there is very limited public transport so a car is essential if you want to explore beyond the main towns and villages.
In Scotland, we drive on the left-hand side of the road - this is so important to remember as I'm not the only local that has faced an oncoming tourist driving at me head on up the wrong side of the road. It is terrifying for everyone involved and in my case an accident was avoided but sadly this is not always the case and occasionally the consequence has been fatal.
There are many types of roads in Scotland and in more rural areas you will frequently encounter narrow, single track roads. This is a one-lane road that permits two-way travel but is not wide enough in most places to allow vehicles to pass one another. Vehicles can pass each other at designated passing places that are generally signposted. The passing places can be on either side of the road and the vehicle nearest a passing place should stop. If the nearest passing place is on your left then you should pull in, if the nearest passing place is on the right you should wait adjacent to it. Remember to give the other driver a cheery wave!
In Scotland, we drive on the left-hand side of the road - this is so important to remember as I'm not the only local that has faced an oncoming tourist driving at me head on up the wrong side of the road. It is terrifying for everyone involved and in my case an accident was avoided but sadly this is not always the case and occasionally the consequence has been fatal.
There are many types of roads in Scotland and in more rural areas you will frequently encounter narrow, single track roads. This is a one-lane road that permits two-way travel but is not wide enough in most places to allow vehicles to pass one another. Vehicles can pass each other at designated passing places that are generally signposted. The passing places can be on either side of the road and the vehicle nearest a passing place should stop. If the nearest passing place is on your left then you should pull in, if the nearest passing place is on the right you should wait adjacent to it. Remember to give the other driver a cheery wave!
In cities and towns you will frequently encounter roundabouts so if you aren’t familiar with those make sure you are up to speed on the rules before you take to the wheel. Basically you give way to traffic coming from your right and make sure you enter and exit the roundabout from the correct lane.
Petrol stations will often be open 24 hours in the cities and some of the main towns. They tend to get less and less frequent the further north you go (and more expensive) so fill up when you can and don’t let your petrol get too low. If you are hiring a car make sure you know whether the car is petrol or diesel.
To check you are eligible to drive in Scotland visit the driving licence section on the Government website.
There is also a page explaining the rules and regulations surrounding drink driving, children’s car seats and things to check before you set off.
The Traffic Scotland website and App lists current incidents, diversions, road closures and lots of other useful information.
Petrol stations will often be open 24 hours in the cities and some of the main towns. They tend to get less and less frequent the further north you go (and more expensive) so fill up when you can and don’t let your petrol get too low. If you are hiring a car make sure you know whether the car is petrol or diesel.
To check you are eligible to drive in Scotland visit the driving licence section on the Government website.
There is also a page explaining the rules and regulations surrounding drink driving, children’s car seats and things to check before you set off.
The Traffic Scotland website and App lists current incidents, diversions, road closures and lots of other useful information.
Head over to my Scotland road-trip page for route inspiration
PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN SCOTLAND
If you would prefer to travel by public transport Scotland has an extensive network of train and bus routes that connect all the cities, main towns and many other parts of the country.
Rail travel can be expensive when travelling internally in Scotland but buying tickets in advance offers the opportunity of significant savings on some routes. Tickets can also be bought at many train stations, or on board from the conductor. Every city has a main train station and most of the towns and villages have stations too. Taking the train means you can sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery, especially if you travel along one of Scotrail’s six scenic routes. To book train tickets in advance head to https://m.buytickets.scotrail.co.uk
Travelling by bus or coach is also popular and generally cheaper. Again, all 7 cities have bus stations which link to most towns and villages around the country. There are four long-distance bus companies -
First Bus run services within Aberdeen and Glasgow. Lothian Buses run within Edinburgh which also has an additional tram service.
Most of the ferries connecting the islands along the west coast of Scotland are run by Caledonian MacBrayne (affectionately called CalMac by locals)
For information on ferries to Orkney click https://www.orkney.com/plan/getting-here
If you are visiting Shetland click here https://www.shetland.org/plan/how-to-get-here
I personally find the Traveline Scotland website and App an excellent tool for planning your journey by public transport.
Rail travel can be expensive when travelling internally in Scotland but buying tickets in advance offers the opportunity of significant savings on some routes. Tickets can also be bought at many train stations, or on board from the conductor. Every city has a main train station and most of the towns and villages have stations too. Taking the train means you can sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery, especially if you travel along one of Scotrail’s six scenic routes. To book train tickets in advance head to https://m.buytickets.scotrail.co.uk
Travelling by bus or coach is also popular and generally cheaper. Again, all 7 cities have bus stations which link to most towns and villages around the country. There are four long-distance bus companies -
- Scottish Citylink
- Stagecoach
- Megabus and
- National Express
First Bus run services within Aberdeen and Glasgow. Lothian Buses run within Edinburgh which also has an additional tram service.
Most of the ferries connecting the islands along the west coast of Scotland are run by Caledonian MacBrayne (affectionately called CalMac by locals)
For information on ferries to Orkney click https://www.orkney.com/plan/getting-here
If you are visiting Shetland click here https://www.shetland.org/plan/how-to-get-here
I personally find the Traveline Scotland website and App an excellent tool for planning your journey by public transport.
SCOTTISH MONEY AND TIPPING
Scotland uses the Pound Sterling, simply known as the pound, which is the same money used in the rest of the UK. Sterling notes from any bank in the UK are accepted in Scotland. However, Scottish bank notes are not always accepted in England (a point of some controversy) so it is better to change any Scottish notes to English bank notes if you are heading south after your visit to Scotland.
The most common bank notes you will come across are £5, £10, £20 and £50. Coins come in denominations of £2, £1, 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p, 2p and 1p. You’ll find plenty of ATMs in all the cities and main towns. Many villages, petrol stations and supermarkets also have cash withdrawal points.
You can exchange currency in banks, currency exchange shops, some supermarkets and hotels.
Most shops, restaurants, cafes, hotels and petrol stations will accept credit and debit cards. One thing I would advise is to keep some cash handy, especially if you are in more remote areas, for things like public toilets (charges sometimes apply, 10p-30p), taxis and parking. You may also be lucky enough to come across an honesty box selling lovely local produce, these are fairly common in rural areas.
Tips - Tipping isn’t generally expected in Scotland like it is in the US. There are some occasions when leaving a tip is appreciated, for example it might be nice to leave a little something at the end of a tour if your guide has been helpful and informative, in a restaurant when the service has been good or in a taxi if the driver has been friendly.
Tips tend to only be given if excellent service has been provided and only about 10% of your bill. If your bartender has been particularly charming just say ’take one for yourself’ and they will either have a small drink or keep the equivalent amount of cash.
The most common bank notes you will come across are £5, £10, £20 and £50. Coins come in denominations of £2, £1, 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p, 2p and 1p. You’ll find plenty of ATMs in all the cities and main towns. Many villages, petrol stations and supermarkets also have cash withdrawal points.
You can exchange currency in banks, currency exchange shops, some supermarkets and hotels.
Most shops, restaurants, cafes, hotels and petrol stations will accept credit and debit cards. One thing I would advise is to keep some cash handy, especially if you are in more remote areas, for things like public toilets (charges sometimes apply, 10p-30p), taxis and parking. You may also be lucky enough to come across an honesty box selling lovely local produce, these are fairly common in rural areas.
Tips - Tipping isn’t generally expected in Scotland like it is in the US. There are some occasions when leaving a tip is appreciated, for example it might be nice to leave a little something at the end of a tour if your guide has been helpful and informative, in a restaurant when the service has been good or in a taxi if the driver has been friendly.
Tips tend to only be given if excellent service has been provided and only about 10% of your bill. If your bartender has been particularly charming just say ’take one for yourself’ and they will either have a small drink or keep the equivalent amount of cash.
LANGUAGES OF SCOTLAND
English has been the main language of Scotland since the 18th century, although it is only one of three native languages still spoken. As you travel around the country you will encounter many differing local accents and dialects.
Gaelic is also an official language of Scotland, although it is only spoken by about 60,000 people, mainly in the Highlands and Islands. There is currently a renewed interest in the language, with great efforts to encourage more speakers.
In Scotland, you will regularly see directional signs written in English and Gaelic. If you fancy learning some Gaelic before you come have a look at the Learn Gaelic website.
The Scots language was spoken and written for about 400 years in Scotland and there has been a recent resurgence of interest in the language being taught in schools and colleges. You only need to look as far as Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson to find brilliant examples of Scots being used.
Gaelic is also an official language of Scotland, although it is only spoken by about 60,000 people, mainly in the Highlands and Islands. There is currently a renewed interest in the language, with great efforts to encourage more speakers.
In Scotland, you will regularly see directional signs written in English and Gaelic. If you fancy learning some Gaelic before you come have a look at the Learn Gaelic website.
The Scots language was spoken and written for about 400 years in Scotland and there has been a recent resurgence of interest in the language being taught in schools and colleges. You only need to look as far as Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson to find brilliant examples of Scots being used.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SCOTLAND TO AVOID MIDGES
Ah, the Scottish midge, striking fear into the heart of visitors for centuries! For those not fully aware of what a midge is, they are tiny flying insects which can swarm in their thousands. The females can give a pretty annoying bite considering their minuscule size. There are over 35 different species of biting midge but the Highland midge if the most ferocious and notorious.
If you are travelling through the Highlands from May to September, you are pretty much guaranteed to come across these wee beasties so if you want to avoid them, book a winter break! Don’t worry though, there are precautions you can take to help you stay free from bites and fully enjoy your holiday. The following advice applies mainly to the Highlands as you will not experience midges as a major problem in other parts of the country or in built up areas.
Midges come out more in the evenings and like damp ground and dense trees and bushes. They are attracted to dark clothing and bare skin so cover up in the evenings with as little skin showing as possible, wear light clothing, save hikes and walks for a windy day. Try to spend your evenings inside, in a restaurant or your hotel. Also, make sure you buy some repellent, Avon Skin So Soft and Smidge are good options.
If you do intend being outdoors hiking or camping in the evening then I highly recommend a Midge head net or even better a jacket - I own both and you may think they look a bit silly but believe me you will thank me later!
If you are travelling through the Highlands from May to September, you are pretty much guaranteed to come across these wee beasties so if you want to avoid them, book a winter break! Don’t worry though, there are precautions you can take to help you stay free from bites and fully enjoy your holiday. The following advice applies mainly to the Highlands as you will not experience midges as a major problem in other parts of the country or in built up areas.
Midges come out more in the evenings and like damp ground and dense trees and bushes. They are attracted to dark clothing and bare skin so cover up in the evenings with as little skin showing as possible, wear light clothing, save hikes and walks for a windy day. Try to spend your evenings inside, in a restaurant or your hotel. Also, make sure you buy some repellent, Avon Skin So Soft and Smidge are good options.
If you do intend being outdoors hiking or camping in the evening then I highly recommend a Midge head net or even better a jacket - I own both and you may think they look a bit silly but believe me you will thank me later!
PASSPORTS & VISAS
A valid passport or national identity card is required for anyone entering the U.K depending on which country you are from. If you live outside the EU you may also need a visa.
Visit Scotland has a section on their website about passports, visas and customs with the most up to date information.
Visit Scotland has a section on their website about passports, visas and customs with the most up to date information.
HEALTHCARE
Residents in the UK are treated by the NHS, meaning we don’t pay for health care. If you are travelling in Scotland and become ill there are some situations where your treatment will also be free, such as emergency care in the hospital or at the GP, emergency transport via an ambulance to the hospital, sexual health services and treatment for some infectious diseases.
Other treatments depend on where you are a member of an EU country. If you are, make sure you bring your EHIC card and necessary treatment will also be free. There are some countries outside of the EU which are also eligible, you’ll find a full list here https://www.nhsinform.scot/media/1124/health-care-for-holidaymakers-from-overseas-v5-2016.pdf.
Try to remember to bring proof of your address.
If you become unwell in Scotland and need treatment -
Basic medicines and supplies are widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets and most local shops and petrol stations. These include items like painkillers, cold and flu remedies, anti-histamines, bite creams, antiseptics, elastoplasts, dressings, bandages, supports and heat and ice packs.
Other treatments depend on where you are a member of an EU country. If you are, make sure you bring your EHIC card and necessary treatment will also be free. There are some countries outside of the EU which are also eligible, you’ll find a full list here https://www.nhsinform.scot/media/1124/health-care-for-holidaymakers-from-overseas-v5-2016.pdf.
Try to remember to bring proof of your address.
If you become unwell in Scotland and need treatment -
- For general advice you can visit a local pharmacy for free and without an appointment
- If you need medical assistance telephone the NHS 24 helpline on 111 (www.nhs24.scot).
- If the situation is a medical emergency telephone 999 and ask for an ambulance
Basic medicines and supplies are widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets and most local shops and petrol stations. These include items like painkillers, cold and flu remedies, anti-histamines, bite creams, antiseptics, elastoplasts, dressings, bandages, supports and heat and ice packs.
FAQS
Is Scottish tap water safe to drink? Absolutely, I may be biased but it’s some of the best water in the world. Remember to bring your own bottle to refill during the day.
What is the legal drinking age? The minimum age for purchasing alcohol in Scotland is 18. However many retailers have joined a Government backed policy called 'Challenge 25'. This means they will require photo ID with your date of birth if you look under 25 before selling you alcohol.
Do you need any vaccinations? No
When do shops open and close? Business hours for local shops are generally from 9 am until 5.30 pm. These time will differ depending on where you are in the country and many local shops still shut on a Sunday.
Supermarkets generally have extended hours with late evening and even 24 hour opening.
Can I wear a kilt when I’m in Scotland? Country to popular belief (and Outlander) men in Scotland do not commonly wear kilts - sorry to disappoint! They are generally reserved for a special occasion such as a wedding, this blog post lists 5 places you are pretty much guaranteed to find a Scotsman in a kilt.
Scottish people, in general, don’t care what you wear, so there is no need to feel self-conscious, wear whatever you want. Wear a kilt every day if you have the urge but you may prefer to keep it for a more traditional event such as a ceilidh.
How can I find out more about my Scottish ancestry? Before you come to Scotland you can start your research on the ScotlandsPeople website. Another useful resource in the National Records of Scotland.
Do I have to eat haggis in Scotland? You should definitely try, and these days there are even vegetarian and vegan options. Personally I love it and so does everyone I know - you will never know what it tastes like if you don't give it a go.
If you really don't fancy it, Scotland has countless amazing restaurants serving all kinds of local produce and cuisine. You are guaranteed to find some Scottish dish you will enjoy - our fresh seafood is particularly renowned.
I have a week in Scotland, can I visit Edinburgh, Glasgow, Skye, Orkney, Shetland and the Scottish Borders? Maybe, if you drove non-stop and didn’t sleep. People contact me all the time with what I would describe as very ambitious itineraries! Scotland is much bigger than most people think and travelling around takes much longer than Google maps might have you believe. Be realistic about how much you can see in a short period of time, do some thorough research and check travelling distances and times. It is simply impossible to see all of Scotland in a week or even a fortnight - even I've not seen all of Scotland yet!
If you have a rough itinerary but need some expert local advice to give it a look over or fill in the gaps, then I can help through my itinerary planning service
What is the legal drinking age? The minimum age for purchasing alcohol in Scotland is 18. However many retailers have joined a Government backed policy called 'Challenge 25'. This means they will require photo ID with your date of birth if you look under 25 before selling you alcohol.
Do you need any vaccinations? No
When do shops open and close? Business hours for local shops are generally from 9 am until 5.30 pm. These time will differ depending on where you are in the country and many local shops still shut on a Sunday.
Supermarkets generally have extended hours with late evening and even 24 hour opening.
Can I wear a kilt when I’m in Scotland? Country to popular belief (and Outlander) men in Scotland do not commonly wear kilts - sorry to disappoint! They are generally reserved for a special occasion such as a wedding, this blog post lists 5 places you are pretty much guaranteed to find a Scotsman in a kilt.
Scottish people, in general, don’t care what you wear, so there is no need to feel self-conscious, wear whatever you want. Wear a kilt every day if you have the urge but you may prefer to keep it for a more traditional event such as a ceilidh.
How can I find out more about my Scottish ancestry? Before you come to Scotland you can start your research on the ScotlandsPeople website. Another useful resource in the National Records of Scotland.
Do I have to eat haggis in Scotland? You should definitely try, and these days there are even vegetarian and vegan options. Personally I love it and so does everyone I know - you will never know what it tastes like if you don't give it a go.
If you really don't fancy it, Scotland has countless amazing restaurants serving all kinds of local produce and cuisine. You are guaranteed to find some Scottish dish you will enjoy - our fresh seafood is particularly renowned.
I have a week in Scotland, can I visit Edinburgh, Glasgow, Skye, Orkney, Shetland and the Scottish Borders? Maybe, if you drove non-stop and didn’t sleep. People contact me all the time with what I would describe as very ambitious itineraries! Scotland is much bigger than most people think and travelling around takes much longer than Google maps might have you believe. Be realistic about how much you can see in a short period of time, do some thorough research and check travelling distances and times. It is simply impossible to see all of Scotland in a week or even a fortnight - even I've not seen all of Scotland yet!
If you have a rough itinerary but need some expert local advice to give it a look over or fill in the gaps, then I can help through my itinerary planning service
10 FUN FACTS ABOUT SCOTLAND
- Scotland’s national animal is a Unicorn
- Scotland’s national emblem is the thistle
- The Scots have invented amazing things such as the television, the telephone, penicillin, anaesthesia, colour photography, the sticky postage stamp, the refrigerator and the electric toaster
- Scotland has the highest proportion of redheads in the world
- The town of Bonnybridge is the UFO capital of Scotland with over 300 sightings a year
- The first coloured photo was taken in 1861 in Scotland - the subject was a tartan ribbon
- There was once thought to be up to 3000 castles in Scotland, almost one every 100 square miles
- If myths are to be believed Scotland is a land of fairies, giants, elves, spirits, ghosts and giant monsters that live in lochs
- The shortest scheduled commercial flight is between the Orkney islands of Westray and Papa Westray. It takes less than 2 minutes and I have recently ticked it off my personal bucket-list
- Scotland has the oldest working post office in the world - at Sanquhar, which was established in 1712
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