Scotland
Edinburgh
The Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands
Is a city of contrasts, blending medieval history with modern vibrancy. The Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, dominates the skyline, while the Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace offer glimpses into Scotland's royal heritage. The city comes alive during the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Photo by Moumita Paul - VisitBritain.com
The Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands
Are one of the most iconic regions of Scotland, offering breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains, tranquil lochs, and dramatic glens. Highlights include Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and the Isle of Skye, perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing in nature’s beauty. Photo by Peter Beavis - VisitBritain.com
Loch Ness
The Scottish Highlands
Whisky Distilleries
Known worldwide for the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, this deep freshwater loch is a must-visit. Beyond the myths, it offers stunning scenery and the historic Urquhart Castle, which sits along its shores. Photo by Andrew Pickett - VisitBritain.com
Whisky Distilleries
The Scottish Highlands
Whisky Distilleries
Scotland is synonymous with whisky, and its whisky distilleries are iconic attractions. Regions like Speyside, Islay, and the Highlands offer tours and tastings, showcasing the craftsmanship behind Scotland's national drink. Photo by Andrew Pickett - VisitBritain.com
Facts about the country
Facts
Things to do
Edinburgh
Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, located in the northern third of the island of Great Britain. It covers an area of approximately 77,933 square kilometers and has a population of around 5.5 million people. The official currency is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Photo by Paul Watt - VisitBritain.com
Edinburgh
Things to do
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city offers a vibrant blend of the medieval and the modern. Visitors can stroll along the Royal Mile, explore Holyrood Palace, or climb Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views. During August, the city transforms with the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world. Photo by Pinzutu - VisitBritain.com
Things to do
Things to do
A bit of history
Explore the Highlands: Discover the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and Loch Ness, home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
Visit Historic Castles: Tour iconic castles like Stirling Castle, Eilean Donan Castle, and Urquhart Castle. Tour Whisky Distilleries: Experience the art of whisky-making in regions like Speyside and Islay, with tastings at world-famous distilleries. Discover the Isle of Skye: Marvel at natural wonders like the Fairy Pools, Quiraing, and Old Man of Storr. Admire the Glenfinnan Viaduct: Watch the Jacobite Steam Train (a.k.a. the Hogwarts Express) cross this iconic railway bridge. Photo by Rod Edwards - VisitBritain.com
A bit of history
A bit of history
A bit of history
Celtic and Pictish Roots: Scotland’s early inhabitants, the Celts and Picts, shaped its ancient culture and traditions. Wars of Independence (13th-14th Century): Figures like William Wallace and Robert the Bruce fought for Scotland’s freedom from England. Union with England (1707): Scotland joined England to form the United Kingdom of Great Britain, though it retained its distinct culture and legal systems.
Industrial Revolution: Cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh became centers of trade and innovation during this transformative era. Modern Scotland: Today, Scotland is known for its rich heritage, thriving arts scene, and contributions to science and culture. Photo by Aurelie Four - @lecorgi - VisitBritain.com
Summer
A bit of history
Summer
Summer temperatures in Scotland range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). What to Wear: Light layers, including a waterproof jacket for the frequent rain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring cities and natural landscapes. Photo by Louise Quinney - VisitBritain.com
Winter
A bit of history
Summer
Winter temperatures typically range from -1°C to 7°C (30°F to 45°F), with colder conditions in the Highlands. What to Wear: Warm layers, including a waterproof coat, scarf, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Snow boots are recommended for visiting remote or mountainous areas. Photo by Graham Niven - VisitBritain.com