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Food and Drink

To say that food and drink is at the very heart of Scotland would be an understatement. More than just a night out, Scottish food and drink is the very lifeblood of Scotland's culture and economy.

With our rolling, rural hillsides, clear coastal waters and lush, fertile lands, Scotland produces some of the best, and most sought after, natural produce in the world.

From mouth-watering Aberdeen Angus steaks, to world-renowned seafood such as wild trout, salmon, oysters and langoustines, not to mention our water of life - whisky - the 'Made in Scotland' stamp has become synonymous with taste and quality. Even our cheese gives the French a run for their money!

Scotland’s stunning landscapes are more than just scenery – its coast and countryside are where our high quality produce is reared, gathered and grown. Hand-dived scallops, Aberdeen Angus beef, Ayrshire potatoes and the soft fruits of Fife are just some of ingredients that Scottish chefs have to work with. Local butchers and fishmongers, as well as farm shops, food festivals and farmers markets , are great places to go to pick up tasty treats so you can cook up your own dishes.

Some Scottish produce is considered so unique that it’s been designated Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) by the European Union. These high-quality items must be produced in an agreed way and within a specific area to be able to make use of the regional name. So when you taste products such as Stornoway Black Pudding, Traditional Ayrshire Dunlop cheese, Orkney Scottish Island Cheddar and Scottish Wild Salmon, you know it’s the real deal. And there’s nothing quite like eating them in the region they come from!

Traditional food & drink

Haggis

Scotland’s national dish is haggis, a savoury meat pudding, and it’s traditionally accompanied by mashed potatoes, turnips (known as ‘neeps’) and a whisky sauce. Which brings us to the national drink – whisky. Over 100 distilleries in Scotland produce this amber-hued liquid, many of which can be explored on a tour. There are five Scottish whisky regions, each with their own distinct flavours, and rumour has it that if you don’t think you like whisky, it’s just because you haven’t found the right one yet!

Discover more about whisky at VisitScotland.com  

Other traditional things to eat include desserts such as Cranachan, sweet treats like shortbread and tablet and savoury dishes, including Scotch broth and black pudding. Various regional cakes and snacks can be found across the country, including Aberdeenshire butteries, which is a type of bread roll, Dundee Cake and Cullen Skink – a deliciously creamy seafood soup.

Discover more facts about Scottish food and drink at VisitScotland.com

Scottish drinks

Want something to wash it all down with? We might have just the thing!

  • We’ve got to open with our biggest export – whisky  – which which is, with good reason, our national drink. Touring a distillery or attending a sampling is a great way to discover this rich and diverse drink.
  • Scotland also has a long history of brewing beer , and is home to a growing number of craft breweries. Many can be toured, and run sampling events and beer festivals – explore the breweries with  Scotland's Craft Beer Map .
  • And then there’s gin . Scotland’s responsible for more than half of gin production in the UK, with over 50 producers making around 100 different gins - browse them with Scotland's Gin Map .
  • Looking for something a little softer? IRN BRU should probably be your first port of call when in Scotland – this bright orange pop drink of an acquired taste is known as ‘Scotland’s other national drink’.

Places to eat

Time to tuck in – there are plenty of options when it comes to eating out in Scotland . All manner of restaurants, traditional pubs, cosy cafés, elegant tearooms and down-to-earth takeaways can be found across the country. Splash out and dine in one of Scotland’s Michelin-star restaurants . Join a foodie walking tour in Edinburgh or Glasgow to sample a range of top culinary experiences. Eat fresh seafood dishes in Scotland’s seaside towns, delight in a traditional afternoon tea, or follow a food and drink trail for a foodie road trip. And if you’re still struggling to decide what to eat, check out places with Taste Our Best accreditation - this guarantees that they are serving up good quality Scottish food. In 2021, Glasgow was recognised as the 18th most vegan friendly city in the world , proving that, no matter your tastes Scotland really does have something for everyone.

Foodie experiences

Food festivals, pop-up restaurants, street food and cooking masterclasses are just a few examples of the food themed events you can experience in Scotland.

Did you know?

  • 40 bottles of Scotch Whisky are shipped overseas each second (yes, that's right!)
  • More Scotch Whisky is sold in one month in France than cognac in a year
  • Over two thirds of the world's langoustines are sourced in Scotland
  • Scottish Salmon was the first foreign product to gain France's prestigious 'Label Rouge' quality mark
  • Scottish lobsters are on the menu in over 20 Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo alone
  • In 1970 there were just 11 breweries in Scotland; there are now over 100 craft brewers in Scotland producing a wide variety of specialist beers
  • Some of Scotland's products have achieved Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, such as Scotch Beef and Lamb, Scotch Whisky and Orkney Cheddar

More on Scottish food on and drink on Visitscotland.com

With a history stretching back as far as the 11th century, Scottish whisky – also known as 'Scotch' – is an important part of our identity in Scotland. Like the drink itself, the story of whisky-making in Scotland is fascinating and complex.

  • Food & Drink

24 Must-Try Traditional Scottish Food & Dishes

Scottish food is quite unlike any other food in the world. Hearty, unique, and downright delicious, great food and drink are an integral part of experiencing Scottish culture. Many traditional dishes we’ll cover today have been perfected over generations and use natural, local produce from earth, air, and sea. If you want to attune yourself deeply to Scotland, there’s no better way to do so than trying these Scottish foods and dishes.

So, from haggis, neeps, tatties, Cranachan, and many more funny-sounding words that we assure you taste delicious, look out for the following traditional dishes while visiting Scotland.

In This Post

Our first traditional Scottish dish is also the national dish of Scotland! Haggis is the iconic national dish that you’ve likely heard about at one point. It is made from animal innards, usually sheep, which are mixed with fresh onions, oatmeal, seasonings, beef suet, and dried herbs.

These ingredients are brought together and cooked inside the lining of a sheep’s stomach — delicious, right? Traditionally served with neeps and tatties, haggis is the meal every Scottish child grew up with and learnt to savour, even if it doesn’t sound as appetising from an outsider’s perspective.

Scotland’s national dish takes a real adventurous spirit to try, but rest assured that once you get over your initial apprehension you’re in for an authentic Scottish delicacy.

Fish and Chips

Fish and chips are likely another delicious Scottish food that you’ve heard of. It’s not only a famous food in Scotland but is beloved throughout the rest of the UK as well. You’ll see it referred to as a fish supper in Scotland, and you can find this scrumptious meal abundantly in fish and chip shops throughout the country.

If you can get fish and chips near the coast, then you’re in for a real treat! Freshly caught and fried fish, and triple-cooked fluffy chips, all smothered in salt and brown sauce, is a heavenly meal after you’ve spent a day exploring attractions. And while this may be a controversial opinion, Scottish fish and chips are the king amongst the fish and chippies you can find throughout the UK — don’t believe us? Why not try it for yourself?

While it’s not a meal you should have every day, a proper fish and chips is a rite of passage for anyone coming to Scotland.

Cullen Skink

In the northeastern corner of the country, the delicious Cullen skink was created in the Scottish town of Cullen. Cullen skink is a thick Scottish soup usually made with fragrant smoked haddock or another smoked fish, potatoes, onions, and a creamy broth to die for. Add in a toasted slice of bread and you’ll be asking for another bowl in no time.

Cullen skink is quite close to American chowder or French Bisque but is considered to be smokier and heartier than either. It is an unrivalled comfort meal on a cold day that can be found throughout Scotland — although Cullen is the true home of this Scottish cuisine staple.

Deep Fried Mars Bars

While many of Scotland’s dishes originate from home-cooked meals cooked by generations of Scottish families, the deep-fried Mars bar is a relatively new addition. John Davie invented this union of deep-fried goodness and sweet chocolate while running the Haven Chip Bar in Stonehaven (a town near Aberdeen).

He battered a Mars bar with flour, eggs, and milk before dunking it in the deep fryer. The result was a crispy battered coated that held a melted chocolate centre. As you can imagine, the deep-fried Mars bar was an instant hit and can now be found in ‘chippies’ all over Scotland. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the opportunity to deep fried goodness!

Scottish Porridge

Only a few people know that porridge originated in Scotland, although the Scottish porridge has a slight twist compared to the porridge you know and love. Instead of sugar, Scottish porridge has salt added to it. You get a hot, savoury breakfast meal that is cheap to make and delicious to eat.

If you want a little sweetness when trying Scottish porridge, don’t worry — many places offer this breakfast meal with fresh raspberries, strawberries, and more to instil some natural sugars into the traditional Scottish dish. Scottish porridge has been a staple for Scottish locals for centuries, so why not embrace this filling breakfast before you start a day of sightseeing in the Highlands ?

Neeps and Tatties

Neeps and tatties are the adorable Scottish terms for turnips and potatoes, a coupling that has accompanied the best food in Scotland. The turnips and potatoes are traditionally boiled and then mashed, creating a creamy and flavourful pairing to roasted meat you can’t help but dig into.

Although they’re traditionally served with haggis — creating the ‘Burns Supper’ — you can find this healthy and hearty set of sides in many Scottish menus, from the Borders to the Highlands.

Scottish Tablet

A Scottish tablet is not an ancient inscribed stone but rather a delicious crumbly treat similar to fudge. A traditional Scottish tablet is made from butter, condensed milk, and sugar, which is then crystallised to form yummy hard candies. They make for fantastic road snacks, and if you want to know where you can find the best Scottish tablets then look no further than the Isle of Skye .

Best of all, they come in various flavours, from standard cream and vanilla to smooth whisky. If you don’t drink but want to experience the diverse whisky culture of Scotland , then a flavoured Scottish tablet may be the next best thing. Add this sweet tooth special to your food tour as a dessert you can enjoy.

Guests coming to Scotland during the holidays should try Cranachan, a traditional Scottish treat that was originally a harvest time celebration. Historically, Cranachan was served after June’s raspberry season but now can be eaten during holidays throughout the year — especially Christmas.

The dessert is made from whipped cream, whisky, fresh raspberries, oat groats, and honey and served in a tall glass. The ingredients are layered one after another, forming a dessert that is almost too pretty to eat… almost. Some places even allow guests to layer their Cranachan, letting them create the perfect dessert for themselves.

Cranachan is considered the ‘uncontested king of Scottish dessert’, but we’ll let you decide if that’s true.

Full Scottish Breakfast

Scotland is known for their whisky, gin , and rum. And after a night of sampling the finest liquor that Scotland has to offer, there’s nothing better than indulging in a full Scottish breakfast the following morning.

A Scottish breakfast has all the delicious staples you expect, from sausage meat, fried eggs, baked beans, tattie scones, black pudding, fried tomatoes, toasted bread, and hash browns. What more could you want? Places throughout Scotland also offer local twists on this Scottish staple, with no breakfast the same wherever you go.

If you need energy to explore the attractions that Scotland has to offer, a full Scottish breakfast is the ideal start to your day.

Stovies are a delicious starter that can fill you up quite quickly if you’re not careful. Made primarily from potatoes along with onions, carrots, fat, and meat, stovies are stewed and served to accompany a meal — usually with oat cakes for some crunch.

There’s nothing better than a stovie on a cold day so if you see this scrumptious starter and side on the menu while in Scotland make sure to pick it.

Black Pudding

The far-flung Outer Hebrides of Scotland have a wide selection of regional Scottish food that you should not miss — most of all, black pudding. This treat is made from pork blood, oat groats, oatmeal, pork suet, and a number of spices. The amount of oats in Scottish black pudding separates it from the other kinds of blood sausages you’ll find worldwide.

While black pudding may stoke the same fears as haggis, you should take the leap and try this tasty piece of Scottish cuisine with a part of a full Scottish breakfast. And if you want the real stuff, grab a bit of Stornoway black pudding during your culinary trip to Scotland.

Scotch Whisky

A slight departure from food, but we can’t mention famous Scottish foods without throwing in something to wash it down with. Scotch Whisky is locally produced in many parts of Scotland, each adding its own flair to the smooth and flavourful alcohol. The Isle of Islay , Campbeltown, the Scottish Borders and the Highlands are all prime places to indulge in a wee dram after a hearty meal!

If you’re just as much of a lover of Scottish drinks as you are food, you should also pay a visit to the wide selection of Edinburgh gin distilleries as well.

Scotch Pies

Scotland’s favourite savoury treat, you can’t go wrong with Scotch pies! These decadent mini treats are most commonly found throughout the British Isles as a double-crust meat pie. You know you’re biting into a good Scotch pie when the crust is crispy and flaky, with rich minced mutton meat in the centre. Best of all, you can eat them whether they’re hot or cold!

Scotland takes its Scotch pies very seriously and hosts the World Scotch Pie Championship every year, elevating the heights this humble treat can reach.

Cock-a-Leekie Soup

We can’t talk about traditional Scottish foods without mentioning Cock-a-Leekie Soup. This traditional Scottish soup is also the national soup of Scotland, and for good reason! The soup dates back to the 16th century and has been a warm staple for a Scottish winter night ever since!

Cock-a-Leekie is similar to a French chicken soup, which makes sense considering how many gentry arrived in Scotland from France. It’s a traditional dish made with peppered chicken stock, thickened with rice and barley, and then imbued with aroma thanks to onions and leaves.

Mull Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese from the Isle of Mull isn’t your ordinary cheese. It is one of the finest Scottish delicacies you can try and is exclusive to this small island in the Inner Hebrides. The secret to its rich and creamy texture with a boozy tang is the cow’s milk the cheese is made from.

Isle of Mull cows feed on the fermented grain produced by the nearby Tobermory Distillery , creating a cheese that is quite unlike you’ve ever tasted anywhere before (and potentially some boozy cows). Whether you’re planning to use it for Scottish cooking or to enjoy on a cracker, we’ll bet you’ll love this unique Scottish cheese.

Specific kinds of beef are the cream of the crop: Wagyu beef, Brahman beef, and Aberdeen Angus beef. This hornless breed of cattle is found in Aberdeenshire but can be seen regularly throughout the North East region of Scotland.

The beef is excellently marbled and tender, making it one of the must-try Scottish foods if you love a good steak.

Bangers and Mash

A combination of sausages and mashed potatoes, bangers and mash is the height of comfort Scottish food. You’ll see this creamy and hearty meal as a regular staple throughout bars and restaurants in Scotland, with some versions also offering a thick gravy.

More adventurous bangers and mash may even have apples and venison sausages instead of local pork sausages. Before you leave Scotland, ensure you try this easy-to-find Scottish food.

Bacon Butty

The morning after a night of tasting excellent Scottish whisky can be tough, but don’t fear — the bacon butty is here to save the day! While not a lavish and refined meal, the bacon butty is a typical Scottish food you’ll be able to find throughout the country.

Picture this: a delicious soft buttered bun with hot and crispy bacon piled in and drizzled with ketchup. Doesn’t that sound like heaven after a night of knocking back drams? The bacon butty is one of the top Scottish foods to try after a night out.

Scottish Ice Cream

When the elusive sunny day arrives in Scotland, you bet there are numerous delicious ice cream parlours and cafes open selling local ice cream. And for a nation that spends most of its year underneath clouds rather than the sun, Scottish ice cream is absolutely divine.

A particular ice cream flavour that represents Scotland well is Scotch whisky! The mixture of smooth vanilla or milk chocolate with a distinctive whisky aftertaste is mouth watering.

Sticky toffee pudding is a traditional Scottish dessert that can be enjoyed throughout the UK. Consisting of a moist sponge cake base, drenched in toffee sauce and accompanied with a vanilla custard or ice cream, sticky toffee pudding is the ultimate dessert treat after a filling meal.

Those coming to Scotland with a bit of a sweet tooth will likely consider this the best dessert Scotland offers.

Smoked Salmon

Scottish salmon are considered to be of the finest quality in the world and can be found throughout Scotland’s snaking rivers and expansive lochs. You’re always close to a smoked salmon meal in Scotland, a blessing considering how succulent this fish tastes when paired with the other dishes we’ve mentioned on this list.

Whether you’re having it as part of a full seafood spread at coastal towns like Portree and North Berwick , or grabbing a delicious smoked salmon bagel with cream cheese for breakfast, you should absolutely try this amazing seafood option.

Scottish Scallops

From one delicious seafood to another, why not pair your smoked salmon with hand-picked West Coast Scottish scallops? Many of Scotland’s towns offer an abundance of delicious seafood options, and these refined and ethically sourced scallops are the best of the best. You’ve never had seafood quite like this!

Rumbledethumps

Rumbledthumps are a whimsical-sounding and delicious traditional food in Scotland that can exclusively be found in the Scottish Borders. The dish combines butter-sauted cabbage with onions and mashed potatoes. Atop the delectable filling, cheddar cheese is spread, giving it a golden brown coating that makes your mouth water.

Arbroath Smokies

When Scottish fishermen would travel out to score a catch long ago, they would bring with them Arbroath smokies to take along the journey. The most famous version of this fisherman’s tradition is the Arbroath smokies, which consisted of haddock salted and dried overnight and then smoked in a barrel.

This traditional Scottish food is deeply embedded in Scotland’s history — one more reason to try this smoked haddock snack.

Graham Grieve

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visit scotland food

20 foods to try when you visit Scotland

Scotland boasts world-class produce, from top quality seafood to indigenous wild game and fresh berries, but our culinary credentials are not widely known..

In fact, Scottish food has long come under criticism for being fatty, beige and lacking in nutrition, with naughty-but-nice staples such as haggis, tablet and deep-fried Mars Bars giving us a bad reputation.

But like them or loathe them, Scotland's foodie traditions continue to tempt - and boggle the minds of - curious visitors.

So when you're visiting Scotland, make sure to pack a pair of trousers with an elasticated waistband and prepare to eat yourself around the country with our pick of the best Scottish foods to try.

You’ll never be stuck for a hearty breakfast in Scotland, with porridge oats being one of our best-loved ingredients.

Highly nutritious and a healthy way to start your day, porridge will give you the energy to climb Arthur’s Seat again and again.

It's the simplest Scottish dish to prepare, made using oats with water or milk. You can top it with whatever you like - often people use sugar, honey or fruit - but for a traditional Scottish treat, try mixing in some double cream or a splash of whisky! 

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Picture: Shutterstock

Full Scottish fry-up

If you need to fuel-up ahead of a packed day of travelling, or you're recovering from a heavy night in the pub, then a full Scottish fry-up is just what the doctor ordered.

While fry-ups can vary from place to place, these are the usual suspects you’ll find on your plate in Scotland: fried eggs, fried mushrooms, sausages (either link or square), baked beans, haggis, tattie scones, black pudding, grilled tomato and some toast.

It’s a breakfast speciality that you’ll be able to find no matter where you are in Scotland.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Breakfast roll

If you need breakfast on the go, but still want a little taste of a fry-up, then a breakfast roll is exactly what you need.

A soft, buttery, floury breakfast roll sets the perfect foundation.  The filling, however, is entirely up to you.

With items such as bacon, sausage, fried egg, tattie scones and more on offer, you’ll be coming back time and time again to try a different combination of fillings.

Why not try a bacon roll with lashings of nippy broon (brown sauce)?

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Picture: Getty Images

Tattie scone

The tattie scone - or potato scone for anyone who's not fluent in Scots - is a beloved part of any full Scottish fry-up or carb-on-carb morning roll.

Combining just a few ingredients - mashed potatoes, butter and flour - the humble tattie scone is as simple as it is versatile.

It's best served grilled or fried with a knob of melted butter or dipped into something dribbly like a poached egg or baked beans.

You can even have a go at making your own for a fluffier, softer tattie scone than the shop-bought versions.

20 foods to try when you visit Scotland

Picture: TSPL

Scottish salmon

Scottish seafood is amongst the best in the world and our salmon is no exception - it's known for its moist, smooth texture and rosy colour. 

Many of Scotland's restaurants offer Scottish salmon, and it's at its best served simply with pan-fried green vegetables.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Picture: Shutterstock.

Black pudding

With its main ingredient blood, black pudding can be an intimidating food for visitors to try.

However, being loaded with protein, potassium, calcium and iron, black pudding has been classed as a “superfood”.

This melt-in-your-mouth speciality - not unlike Spanish morcilla - is sure to be a hit with blood-thirsty visitors to Scotland. Don't knock it until you've tried it!

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Native to Scotland, grouse is considered the king of feathered game and has a distinctive gamey flavour.

Grouse shooting season falls between August and December meaning you can get a grouse straight from the Scottish moors on your plate. And if you've got a strong stomach, why not try shooting one yourself?

Each bird is usually enough to serve one person and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Try it stewed, in a casserole or roasted. 

Most high quality restaurants in Scotland serve grouse dishes in the autumn when it's in season.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

The Scotch pie is a small but mighty delicacy.

A double crust pie case sets the perfect stage for a rich filling of traditionally minced mutton, although other meat is used as well.

Served hot or cold, it's perfectly hand-sized for sustenance on the go.

Scotch pies are widely available at bakeries throughout Scotland so make sure you pick one up on your travels.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Cullen skink

A creamy and delicious Scottish soup, cullen skink combines smoked salmon, onions and potatoes.

Often served as a restaurant starter, it's the perfect dish to warm you from the inside should our somewhat unpredictable weather decide to take a turn for the worse.

It absolutely should be mopped up with bread so you can get every last drop.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

In Scots, to “stove” something is to stew it.

Therefore it makes sense that stovies are potatoes that have been stewed with onions and meat. 

Traditional comfort food, stovies are the ultimate dish if you’re in need of a pick-me-up. 

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Chicken tikka masala

We know what you’re thinking, but hear us out!

While most people consider chicken tikka masala to be an Indian dish, there are rumours it actually originated from an Indian restaurant in Glasgow.

Regardless of its origins, this spicy, creamy curry has been truly embraced by Scotland and is one of our nation's favourites.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Fish supper

Fish suppers are a staple of the Scottish diet. Commonly they consist of deep-fried haddock with chips, purchased from a 'chippy' (chip shop).

Depending on where in Scotland you decide to sample a fish supper, you may find yourself caught between the great debate of “salt and sauce” vs “salt and vinegar”.

Salt and sauce refers to having your fish and chips doused in salt and ‘chippy sauce’, a brown, vinegary sauce - not unlike the aforementioned 'nippy broon'. If you’re visiting Edinburgh, salt and sauce is the way to go.

In the west coast, however, salt and vinegar is the more acceptable way to season your fish supper. Now that you’re clued up on fish supper etiquette, all that’s left is to get tucked in...

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

For those with a sweet tooth, tablet is the real deal.

A not-too-distant relative of fudge, Scottish tablet is made from sugar, condensed milk and butter - and lots of it. Tough on the outside with a melt-in-your-mouth middle, this sweet treat is  g uaranteed to cause a spike in your blood sugar and has an addictive quality that will make you never want to stop eating the stuff.

Whilst this piece of confectionery dates back to the 18th century, we still love eating it to this day and probably always will.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Soor plooms

Scottish for “sour plums”, sour plooms are guaranteed to have you scrunching your face, smacking your lips together and reaching for another.

Small, green, hard boiled confectionery, soor plooms are a childhood favourite among Scots.

Generally served in a small paper bag, soor plooms are perfect for those who love a sour sweet.

visit scotland food

Picture: Anne\Flickr

Made from flour, sugar and butter, shortbread is a rich, crumbly, buttery biscuit that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea.

Originally an expensive biscuit and reserved only for special occasions such as Christmas and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve), shortbread has made its way into the mainstream and for that we’re thankful - we couldn’t imagine only being able to eat it once a year!  

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Described as the king of Scottish desserts, cranachan combines the richness of cream, the tart sweetness of raspberries and the earthy umami flavour of oats to create the perfect dessert.

It’s also found with many different types of flavour. With whisky, chocolate and orange varieties available, you could have cranachan again and again and not have the same experience twice.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Edinburgh Rock

Distinctly different from traditional rock - a hard boiled sugary sweet generally flavoured with peppermint - Edinburgh rock is unique.

Made with sugar, water and various flavourings, Edinburgh Rock is soft and crumbly in texture.

Our capital's sweet is coloured with delightful pastel hues and chances are you’ve never had anything quite like it. Make sure you try a stick when you can.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

T unnock's Tea Cake

Perfect with a tea or coffee, the Tunnock's Tea Cake is the perfect post-lunch snack to get you through to tea time (what we call dinner time in Scotland).

It’s made up of a small, round shortbread biscuit base covered with a dome of meringue - similar to the texture of marshmallow - and sealed in a thin shell of chocolate.

The iconic red and silver tinfoil packaging is enough to put hearts in the eyes of any Scot. 

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

Scottish cheese board

Thanks to our unique climate and geography, Scotland is particularly well suited to cheese making - something we’ve embraced to the maximum.

From traditional cheddar to soft, creamy varieties and blue cheeses, we've got something to suit all tastes. Why not try some of the best-known varieties such as Anster, Ayrshire Dunlop or Orkney Smoked Cheddar? Or just have a wander around some of Scotland's artisan cheese shops (there are plenty in Glasgow and Edinburgh) and sample some local produce.

Most good restaurants offer Scottish cheese boards served with oatcakes and chutney - perfection on a plate.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

It wouldn’t be a list of must-try Scottish foods without Scotland's national dish .

While myth and speculation has led many of us - Scots included - to think that the haggis is an actual living, breathing animal, the sad truth is there's no such thing as a friendly little haggis.

The ugly beast is actually a combination of minced sheep heart, liver and lung meat bulked out with oatmeal, onions, suet, seasoning and spices. Haggis might not sound particularly appetising, but one taste of this Scottish comfort food dish and you'll be hooked.

It's best served with neeps and tatties (swede and potatoes), and a splash of creamy whisky sauce for an authentic Scottish dinner.

20 food and drink to try when you visit Scotland

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The 15 Best Scottish Foods: What & Where to Eat and Drink in Scotland

Hearty meals of haggis, neeps, and tatties, bountiful broths of Cullen skink and Cock-a-Leekie Soup, and delectable desserts of tablet and cranachan all make Scottish food one of our world favorites. 

If it’s your first time in Scotland, though, we’ll forgive you for not knowing what any of those dishes are. But rest assured, foodie-loving travelers – you’re going to love Scotland’s moreish culinary traditions!

We know you won’t have long to explore Scotland, but we don’t want you to miss out on any sensational culinary delights when you’re visiting. To help you have the best foodie adventure possible, we’ve put together our list of the top 15 traditional Scottish foods and beverages to eat and drink when you’re in Scotland. 

To make things even easier, we’ve also added our favorite places and destinations in Scotland to try each of these items!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Scottish Foods

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 15 Best Scottish Foods & Drinks – and Where to Try Them!

1. acquire a taste for haggis.

Best Foods to try in Scotland: Haggis

As the story goes, the legendary “haggis” is a small Scottish creature with two legs longer than the other two, a morphological feature that allows the haggis to run around the hills in the Scottish Highlands. At least, that’s the story that’s been told to unwitting first-time tourists since time immemorial. 

You’ll soon discover that the reality is somewhat different. Scotland’s national dish isn’t a small hop-along creature but is, in fact, a hardy Highland staple that’s prepared from all the leftover parts of a sheep. Haggis is effectively a type of offal, and it’s a mishmash of the stomach and other innards, all mixed with oatmeal and onion. 

Traditional Foods to try in Scotland: Haggis

Haggis features heavily in Scottish culinary history, and you may have read the famous Address to a Haggis composed by Scottish poet Robert Burns. While it doesn’t sound particularly appetizing, it’s surprisingly addictive, and can be prepared in a number of different ways (boiling, frying, baking, etc.). 

It’s best served the traditional way, with a heavy serving of neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Where to Eat Haggis in Scotland

You’ll find haggis on menus across Scotland, and especially so in hotels and pubs catering to the culinary demands of tourists wishing to try this curious Scottish dish. One of our favorite places to eat haggis is in Edinburgh , where the Arcade Haggis & Whisky House serves up award-winning haggis alongside an incredible selection of whiskies.

2. Fill Up With a Full Scottish Breakfast

Scotland Foods to try list: Full Scottish Breakfast

When you’re traveling anywhere in the United Kingdom, always be prepared for a heavy breakfast. No matter if you’re in London, Cardiff, or Edinburgh, the traditional breakfast of choice is hearty, filling, and heavy, and it’s guaranteed to set you up for a full day of sightseeing.

In Scotland, you’ll be tempted by the Full Scottish Breakfast, although after a week of eating this monstrous plate of breakfast food, you might need to climb Ben Nevis a few times over to work off the calories. Even still, the Full Scottish Breakfast is a must-eat in Scotland.

Must Try Foods in Scotland: Full Scottish Breakfast

The Full Scottish Breakfast will vary from one pub, hotel, cafe, and restaurant to the next, but there are several basic staples you’ll always find served. First up, you have the sausages. 

These could be the usual rounded sausages you’re probably used to, or they could be the more traditional Lorne sausage, which you’ll find are square-shaped rather than cylindrical. 

Next, you have the bacon. The sausage and bacon will then be served alongside white pudding (a type of black pudding minus the blood) and tattie scones, a type of potato cake. The plate might be full, but the ingredients don’t end there. 

A Full Scottish Breakfast might also feature baked beans, fried tomatoes and mushrooms, toast, and eggs (fried, scrambled, or poached). Wash it all down with a glass of orange juice and tea or coffee, and you’re all set until dinner!

Where to Eat a Full Scottish Breakfast in Scotland

A Full Scottish Breakfast is commonly served in hotels, pubs, and cafes across the country. If you’re looking for things to eat in Edinburgh and you want to give the Full Scottish Breakfast a try, the Edinburgh Larder or Southern Cross Cafe are particularly popular for their Full Scottish Breakfasts. 

In Glasgow , Scran or the Wilson Street Pantry are both excellent choices. In the Scottish Highlands, Cafe Eighty2 , close to Loch Ness, serves up a huge Full Scottish Breakfast with veggie and vegan options. 

3. Get Your Day Started With Scottish Porridge

What to eat in Scotland: Scottish Porridge

If you’re looking for a light breakfast that’s still going to keep you fully charged for a morning of hiking in the Scottish Highlands or a day of sightseeing in Edinburgh, then why not try Scottish porridge?

This ubiquitous Scottish breakfast food has been consumed in Scotland for centuries, and its simplicity, low cost, and high energy content ensure it continues to be a favorite Scottish comfort food today. 

Best Foods to try in Scotland: Scottish Porridge

Scottish porridge is prepared using oats, which are mixed with water and milk, and a dash of salt. It’s that easy, although it takes practice and skill to get the consistency of the porridge just right (you don’t want it too watery or too stodgy).

Scottish porridge originated in the Scottish Highlands, where the harsh climate ensures that few crops can survive. Oats, however, are a hardy crop, and they are one of the few that survive on the mountainsides. 

Where to Eat Scottish Porridge in Scotland

Scottish porridge is best enjoyed in the Scottish Highlands, where this simple breakfast food originated. It’s a great way to set yourself up for a day of hiking or mountaineering, and you can easily spruce the dish up with a bit of jam, some sugar, or sliced fruit. If you’re in Fort William, ready for an action-packed day outdoors, then the Wildcat is known for serving up an energy-filled Scottish porridge. 

4. Warm Up With a Bowl of Cock-a-Leekie Soup

Best Foods to try in Scotland: Cock-a-Leekie Soup

Cock-a-what? You might be asking yourself if you’ve never delved into the delightful comforts of a Cock-a-Leekie Soup in Scotland. This tasty mixture of leeks and chicken is considered to be Scotland’s national soup. The epitome of Scottish comfort food, it’s perfect for a cold winter’s day when you just need a hearty, warming bowl of goodness. 

“Cock” refers to the chicken, while “Leekie” is, of course, the leeks. The two main ingredients of Cock-a-Leekie Soup are complemented by other ingredients such as carrots and bacon, and the broth might be thickened using oatmeal. 

Traditional Foods to try in Scotland: Cock-a-Leekie Soup

Vegetarian versions will remove the chicken and use vegetable stock as a base. Importantly, a traditional Cock-a-Leekie Soup recipe should always include prunes, which make for a sweet addition to the broth! If you’re looking to sample all of the best foods in Scotland, be sure to order up at least one bowl of Cock-a-Leekie Soup!

Where to Eat Cock-a-Leekie Soup in Scotland

The Scran & Scallie in Edinburgh serves up a hearty Cock-a-Leekie Soup as well as many more traditional Scottish dishes and drinks. You’ll also find it on many pub menus across the country, often as a fresh Soup of the Day.

5. Snack on a Scotch Pie

Local Foods to try in Scotland: Scotch Pie

Scotch pie is one of the most popular Scottish snacks, and it’s one of the tastiest ways to satisfy your hunger pangs when you’re out sightseeing. 

The traditional Scotch pie is made by preparing a mutton filling (often mixed with salt, pepper, and other seasonings) that’s then placed inside a crust, baked, and eaten by hand. Scotch pie is unique in the pie world because of its pastry, which is known as “hot water pastry,” and which forms a solid outer layer that can easily be grasped by hand by the eater!

Must Try Foods in Scotland: Scotch Pie

While mutton is the most authentic filling, many different types of Scotch pie may be found across Scotland, including lamb or beef fillings. They’re so popular that once a year, Scotland hosts a World Scotch Pie Championship!

Where to Eat Scotch Pie in Scotland

Head to The Piemaker for the most interesting Scotch pies in Scotland. This Edinburgh takeaway eatery not only bakes the original Scotch pies but has an impressive selection of pies with fillings ranging from haggis to chicken tikka masala!

6. Fuel Up On Stovies

Hearty food is what the Scots do best, and we know you’re going to love trying stovies, one of the most traditional Scottish foods. 

Every household, kitchen, and chef will have their own special recipe for stovies, and the beauty of this dish is that it’s highly customizable. It’s a great way to use things up, although the must-have staple ingredients that make it stovies and that must be included are potatoes and onions. 

Stovies is essentially a type of stew. You take your potatoes and onions and slowly, slowly stew them in a pot with butter or dripping until they are super soft. You might stew them with meat or other vegetables, making this a great one-pot meal and a must-eat in Scotland. 

Where to Eat Stovies in Scotland

Stovies will be found in humble restaurants as well as fine dining establishments. One of Scotland’s best restaurants is the Ubiquitous Chip in Glasgow, for example, and they always have stovies on their menu!

7. Treat Yourself to Fresh Lobster

What to eat in Scotland: Fresh Lobster

What could be better than a fresh, juicy lobster caught just hours ago in the cold waters of the North Sea? Not much, if you love your shellfish, and the fresh lobster (and other seafood) is one of the reasons we love eating our way around Scotland’s islands. 

The Scottish blue lobster is found along much of the Scottish coastline, and you’ll love how seafood restaurants and fine dining establishments serve this delicacy up not long after it’s been hauled in from the pots. 

Scotland Foods to eat: Fresh Lobster

Lobsters can be found in Scottish restaurants grilled, boiled in bouillon, or even barbecued, and there will be plenty of sauces and butter to accompany your seafood treat. No matter which way you order it, fresh lobster is easily one of the best foods in Scotland.

Where to Eat Lobster in Scotland

We recommend traveling as far north as you can for the best lobster. The Shetland Islands are well known for their lobster hauls, while the Orkney Islands have a dedicated lobster hatchery that keeps population numbers topped up and lobster-potting sustainable.

8. Seek Out the Best Fish and Chips

Best Foods to try in Scotland: Fish and Chips

There’s nothing quite like British Fish and Chips, and in Scotland, you can find some superb restaurants and takeaways serving up this fried specialty. Fish and Chips is exactly what you’re expecting. It’s fish served with chips. But despite the simple concept, it takes a lot to get this dish absolutely perfect. 

The chips need to be slightly crispy, but they’re not French fries. They’re thick, sometimes hand-cut, and they’re fried in oil and served with salt and vinegar. The fish should be a long filet, and while cod was traditionally the favored choice, stock shortages mean that you might find haddock or plaice on the menu instead. 

Unique Foods to try in Scotland: Fish and Chips

Regardless of the species, the fish needs to be covered in a thick layer of batter that’s deep-fried until it’s crispy and crunchy on the outside, with soft fish meat in the middle. The Fish and Chips are then served alongside your choice of chip shop sides, and you can try mushy peas, tartare sauce, curry sauce, gravy, and much more in Scotland! 

Where to Eat Fish and Chips in Scotland

The title for Scotland’s best Fish and Chips is one that’s hard-fought over, and everyone you ask during your travels will have their personal favorite. You might have to go out of your way to find the best because trust us when we say the best aren’t going to be in the touristy destinations. Award-winning Fish and Chip shops include Catch Fish and Chips in Glasgow, The Plaice To Be in Kilmarnock, and Lows Traditional Fish and Chips in Aberdeen. 

9. Try Scotland’s Chicken Tikka Masala

Must Try Foods in Scotland: Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken tikka masala is a dish that’s found in curry houses the world over, but did you know that it was invented in Scotland? 

As the local story goes, chicken tikka masala is said to have been first cooked in a restaurant in Glasgow when a customer told the chef that their chicken was too dry. The chef took the chicken back into the kitchen, where they added a tin of tomatoes and unwittingly concocted what is now a classic British-Indian dish and one of the best foods in Scotland!

Local Foods to try in Scotland: Chicken Tikka Masala

While the story may or may not be true, it’s true that chicken tikka masala did evolve from Indian and Bangladeshi cooking brought to Britain in the 1970s. It’s a wonderful dish that highlights the ever-changing nature of food and that shows how the food we eat absorbs different influences from different cultures. 

Where to Eat Chicken Tikka Masala in Scotland

The best place to eat chicken tikka masala in Scotland is, without a doubt, Glasgow. After all, the city is where the dish is said to have been invented. In fact, you can dine at Shish Mahal , the very restaurant which is said to be where this iconic dish was first created!

10. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With Tablet

Best Foods to try in Scotland: Tablet

If you’ve got a sweet tooth to satisfy, then find yourself a bag of tablet as soon as you set down in Scotland. This sweet delight is sugar, sugar, and more sugar, and while you might be left with a toothache after one too many squares, you’ll be left with a soft spot for these sweet Scottish snacks for the rest of your life.

Tablet is prepared using just three ingredients. Sugar, butter, and condensed milk. It’s sort of similar to fudge, although rather than being soft, tablet is much more brittle and crumbles very easily. 

Where to Eat Tablet in Scotland

You’ll find tablet for sale in all the good sweet shops and supermarkets across Scotland, where it tends to be on sale for much cheaper than in the souvenir shops at tourist attractions. For a novel tablet experience, you could travel to the small town of Kirriemuir in eastern Scotland, where The Star Rock Shop claims to be the oldest sweet shop and tablet seller in the country!

11. Sip Whiskey at Scotland’s Best Distilleries

What to eat in Scotland: Whiskey

No trip to Scotland is ever complete without a tour of the best Scottish whisky distilleries and, if you’re thirsty, a few wee drams of the good stuff at the end. Scotch whisky needs very little introduction, but rest assured, the rumors are true. Scotland, the birthplace of whisky, is the best place in the world to drink this fiery spirit. 

Whisky has a long history in Scotland, and each of the different whiskey distilling regions has evolved its own distinct tastes, aromas, and distillation styles over the centuries. There are six distinct whisky regions that you could visit. These are Speyside, Lowlands, Highlands, Islay, Campbeltown, and the Islands. 

Scotland Foods to eat: Whiskey

Where to drink whisky in Scotland

Where to start? There are countless distilleries across the country and hundreds of different brands, malts, and varieties – all offering a taste of Scotch to travelers. A good place to begin is The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where you can learn about the history of whisky and the distillation process. Excellent distilleries also include The Famous Grouse , Talisker , Laphroaig , and more!

12. Get Refreshed With Irn Bru

Best Foods to try in Scotland: Irn Bru

The first thing you’ll notice in Scotland is the bright, vibrant, lucid orange liquid that the locals seem to consume on an almost constant basis.

This bright orange liquid is Irn Bru, and it’s a modern fizzy staple that’s more popular than Coca-Cola. Millions upon millions of liters of Irn Bru are sold every year, and the drink regularly outsells all other soda brands – such is its popularity. 

Unique Foods to try in Scotland: Irn Bru

It’s difficult to describe the taste of Irn Bru, so you’ll need to give it a go yourself and see if you like it. Irn Bru is often described as Scotland’s “other national drink” (after whisky, of course), and increasingly, you’ll even find it used in cocktail bars as a mixer!

Where to Drink Irn Bru in Scotland

Find the nearest shop, supermarket, or vending machine, and you’re guaranteed to find Irn Bru for sale. In fact, there are very few places in Scotland that don’t stock or sell Irn Bru. It’s a Scottish institution, after all!

13. Indulge in Cranachan

Scotland Foods to try list: Cranachan

Dessert lovers rejoice because in Scotland, you’ll quickly fall for the sweet tones and flavors of cranachan. Don’t worry, this delectable Scottish dessert sounds harsher than it is. The reality is that this is a beautiful mix of raspberries, whipped cream, honey, oats, and, if you like, a dash of whisky!

Traditionally, cranachan was served as breakfast. This is because it was always a seasonal dish, and it would be prepared when the raspberries were ready to be picked. These days, raspberries are available year-round, and cranachan has instead become Scotland’s national dessert.

Must Try Foods in Scotland: Cranachan

Where to Eat Cranachan in Scotland

Any restaurant claiming to serve Scottish food should have cranachan on the menu. If you’re in Glasgow, there’s even a cafe named Cranachan you can check out. In Edinburgh, try the restaurants along Rose Street, where there’s an abundance of Scotch restaurants and pubs. 

14. Sample a Bowl of Cullen Skink

Scotland Foods to eat: Cullen Skink

If you love a hearty broth, then you’re going to love Cullen skink. This is the heartiest of Scottish broths, and it’s the perfect Scottish comfort food on a cold, dark winter’s day.

Cullen skink is a thick blend of potatoes, onions, and haddock. Traditionally, a specific type of smoked haddock named Finnan Haddie was always used in the soup, but you’ll find all sorts of haddock, other types of fish, and other variations of the dish today. Some chefs will use cream to thicken the soup, for example, while others will stick to a more watery recipe.

What to eat in Scotland: Cullen Skink

Cullen skink is best when it’s smoky, as this is the authentic way to prepare the soup. Think of it as a sort of Scottish seafood broth or haddock chowder! If that sounds good to you, you’ll love this traditional Scottish dish!

Where to Eat Cullen Skink in Scotland

Cullen skink originated in (and is named for) the village of Cullen, so there’s no doubt that this is the best place in Scotland to find the most authentic Cullen skink. The village of Cullen is located on the coast in Moray, in northeast Scotland.  

15. Try a Deep-Fried Mars Bar

Best Foods to try in Scotland: Mars Bar

Deep-fried what now? This one’s an acquired taste, and it’s certainly not one for anyone on a diet either, but if you want to try a truly Scottish dish, then you’ve got to ask for a deep-fried Mars Bar. 

The Mars Bar is a type of chocolate bar with a soft and gooey center of chocolate and caramel. It’s packed full of sugar and calories already, but for some reason, it was decided that the Mars Bar would be even better if it was deep-fried. 

Unique Foods to try in Scotland: Mars Bar

One of the most indulgent Scottish snacks, the Mars Bar will be covered in a thick layer of batter (the same batter used to coat fish) and then deep-fried until the outside is crispy and the chocolate in the middle has melted. Try it. We dare you!

Where to Eat Deep-Fried Mars Bars in Scotland

You can find deep-fried Mars Bars in takeaway shops across Scotland. It’s often served in Fish and Chip shops, where it’s easy to batter and deep fry the Mars Bar. It’s said that the deep-fried Mars Bar was first pioneered in Aberdeen, so why not give it a try there? 

There you have it! The 15 best foods in Scotland. What are your favorite things to eat and drink in Scotland?

Planning a trip to Scotland? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Scotland Travel Guide by Rick Steves

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The Best Scottish Food to Try in Scotland

About the Author:

Richard Collett

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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9 Unique Dishes You Must Try When You Visit Scotland

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While Scotland is not necessarily known as a foodie destination, there is no doubt that some of its traditional dishes are recognized around the world. Who hasn’t heard of haggis or deep-fried Mars bars? Others are definitely a more local affair, and offer lots to discover and try.

Wherever I travel, I tend to try and sample as much of the local cuisine as possible, as each traditional dish tells you a little about the region, the people, and their history.  In Scotland, surrounded on three sides by the sea, there is definitely a lot of fresh seafood around, but it is the typical Scottish food that I searched out, to more or less success.

Here are some of the typically Scottish foods and drinks you need to try when you find yourself in the northernmost country of the United Kingdom, for better or for worse. Be brave, and you will be rewarded.

Haggis, a traditional Scottish dish

Haggis is undoubtedly the most famous Scottish food item, maybe after whisky — see below — and it is the national dish of Scotland. Now, you have got to be brave: Haggis is made from minced sheep’s lung, heart, and liver mixed with chopped beef or lamb, oats, suet, and numerous spices, such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and coriander. The finely ground mixture is then wrapped in a sheep’s stomach and boiled. Still upright?

Having a vegetarian daughter, my stomach turns at the ingredients list, but, when in Scotland… And do you know what? It is really good.  There are no chewy lumps or fatty meat; instead, the fine mince tastes nearly Christmassy, beautifully spiced, but not spicy, and very tasty indeed. I enjoyed it so much, I had it again, and would heartily recommend it to anybody. Just don’t think of the list of ingredients, that’s all.

Where To Try It: The Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant in Glasgow is a hugely popular restaurant in a contemporary setting, and the dishes are affordable, nicely presented, and really yummy.

Neeps and tatties served alongside haggis

2. Neeps And Tatties

If you are eating haggis, then you will also be eating neeps and tatties; they go together like fish and chips. What sounds exotic is simply mashed up swedes and/or turnips, called neeps, and potatoes, the tatties. Again, finely mashed, but not pureed, they are prepared with butter, salt, and pepper, and that is pretty much it. Simple, warming, hearty, and tasty. And, together with haggis, not a dish that will give your teeth a workout, but a perfect combination that is very enjoyable.

Where To Try It: I had them at the same place as the haggis, the Ardnamurchan in Glasgow, but you find them on every menu in Scotland as they are a staple food.

Cullen Skink, a traditional Scottish dish

3. Cullen Skink

What sounds like a sulking lizard is indeed one of the tastiest soups in the world, and that is official, according to Taste Atlas , which scored the soup 4.8 out of 5. And I, for one, tend to agree. There is nothing better on a cold winter’s day than a steaming hot bowl of soup, unless you can get hold of a steaming hot bowl of Cullen Skink, that is. Made quite simply from milk, potatoes, leeks, and onions, with the magic ingredient of smoked haddock, the soup is creamy and, because of the fish, has a lovely smoked flavor to it. Originating from the northeastern fishing village of Cullen some 180 miles north of Edinburgh, smoking fish was a popular way of preserving a fresh catch and it makes for a nice, hearty dish.

Where To Try It: I ate it pretty much everywhere I found it, which is in most restaurants serving local dishes, but according to anybody in the know, it is the Rockpool Cafe in Cullen where they still follow the absolutely original and best recipe.

Irn-Bru at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum in Scotland

Ask anybody Scottish, and they come together over their love for Irn-Bru. This neon orange fizzy soda is famous but is rarely available beyond the Scottish borders. Personally, I hate carbonated drinks, and certainly any that glow in the dark, but in the name of research, I went for it. Tense and with a glass of water nearby to wash away the taste, I sipped, and I liked. Very sweet, very orange, but not as awful as Lucozade (my apologies, Lucozade makers), it has a taste that I cannot describe, but it certainly is not as harsh as it looks, or you’d expect. I would have it again on an occasion that I needed a sugary caffeine rush, but no coffee was at hand.

Where To Try It: I did my taste experiment in the lovely setting of the coffee shop inside the imposing Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum in Glasgow. Buy a can of the drink and try it. It is surprisingly good. Another surprise point to Scottish food and drink.

Fried Mars bar

5. Deep-Fried Mars Bar

Okay, now if you think haggis is weird, then you have tried nothing yet. Some 20-odd years ago it went through the world press and TV that in Scotland they started to batter and deep fry that chocolate bar made from caramel and chocolate, the Mars bar. Why, I cannot be too sure, but even now, whenever you hear talk about eating in Scotland, the deep-fried Mars bar comes up.

I love chocolate, but I do not like Mars bars (my apologies, Mars Wrigley), but I had chocolate spring rolls before and they were so good, that, again in the name of research, I went for it. Honestly? It is one of the worst things I have ever tasted. I had two bites, just to confirm my first impression, and threw out the rest. That said, my husband found it greasy but not too bad. And for what it’s worth, he also likes Mars bars. So, by all means, try one.

Where To Try It: While any fish and chip shop in the Glasgow city center offers them, I cannot bring myself to recommend the place I got mine from.

Cranachan, a traditional Scottish dessert

6. Cranachan

Now, here we are coming to probably my favorite after haggis and Cullen Skink. This is a sweet treat served in a glass that is made up of layers of cream, oats, honey, and fresh raspberries with a dash of whisky. It is a dessert served on special occasions, such as Burns Night celebrations, when I first tasted it, and originates from the harvest festival, taking place after the harvest of the raspberries. It is absolutely scrumptious, light and healthy tasting, and so moreish that you might as well try and get hold of another one straight away.

Where To Try It: Head straight to the beautiful Café Royal in Edinburgh, where they also do the Macbeth Toastie, a toasted sandwich filled with haggis, smoked bacon, cheddar, and caramelized onions.

Stovies, a potato-based Scottish dish

Stovies is a dish based on potatoes. Usually served in an individual baking dish, or portioned from a larger casserole dish, this recipe is an individual one, with every place preparing it slightly differently. Small diced potatoes are stewed slowly and prepared with onions, vegetables, and usually some kind of slow-cooked meat, or indeed a cold slice of meat on the side. Very wintery and warming, nearly stodgy, but good old comfort food to be sure. It is so warming that they serve it at the Edinburgh Christmas Market to enjoy with a glass of mulled wine. And that is pretty perfect.

Where To Try It: If you are in Glasgow instead of the Edinburgh Christmas Market, then head to the Curler’s Rest Pub near the Botanical Gardens.

The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh

You can’t talk about Scottish food and drink and not talk about whisky . It is the national drink, it is an important part of the country’s income, and it is, quite simply, the lifeblood of Scotland. Whisky distilling started, as did champagne making, in a monastery. What would we do without the old monks?! The name whisky derives from the old Gaelic expression, uisge beatha , and can be translated as “water of life,” not to be confused with the clear aquavit , the Scandinavian water of life.

Where To Try It: Wherever you find yourself in Scotland, there is whisky, and the taste differences are enormous. And the best way to find one you like is during a whisky tasting. The slightly touristy, but extensive and informative Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh will leave your head spinning for so many reasons.

Scottish porridge at breakfast table

9. Scottish Porridge

I am not a breakfast person normally, but when I have time and leisure, I love some freshly made porridge. Especially when it’s cold outside. Scottish porridge is made from oats that are ground, so it is a lot finer than most porridges around the world, and it makes for a creamy texture. It is not a traditionally Scottish dish as such, because many countries have porridge, but the way the oats are treated differs, so I thought I’d include it here.

Where To Try It: Many cafes offer you porridge on the breakfast menu. I enjoyed the porridge at Pep & Fodder at 11 Waterloo Place near Calton Hill in Edinburgh. Unpretentious, and budget-friendly, they are happy to top up your cinnamon or syrup as you work through your bowl of porridge.

Related Reading:

  • 5 Cozy Restaurants With A Fireplace To Experience In Scotland
  • 7 Reasons Winter Is The Perfect Time To Visit The Scottish Highlands
  • My 11 Favorite Experiences On A Road Trip Through Scotland

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A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

The Plate Unknown Blog

Scottish Foods to Try

Scotland boasts some of the most visually stunning landscapes in the world. But, the unique geography offers much more than just beautiful photos and walks. With hundreds of miles of coastline and acres of prime farmland, the abundance of top quality Scottish foods on our doorstep is second to none.

Here in Scotland, we proudly produce some of the finest quality meats like beef, lamb and venison. Plus, with over 10,000 miles of coastline, there are also scallops, langoustines, salmon and plenty of other seafood to boot.

Read on as we take a deep dive into some of the most traditional foods of Scotland . We share what to eat in Scotland; where these top Scottish food and drinks came from; and what they really are.

Whether you’re going for a city-break in historic Edinburgh or camping in the beautiful Highlands, you’ll find an amazing array of Scottish foods to try. This is our complete list of Scottish foods, Scottish drinks and where to find them.

Once you’ve tried them, why not check out our list of the best  Scottish cookbooks to bring these great ingredients to life at home?

Meat   |  Breakfast   |  Seafood   |  Desserts   |  Drinks

Scottish Meat Dishes

Haggis is the most traditional of the Scottish foods to try, cut open with neeps and tatties

“There is no more unfavorably reviled food on Earth than haggis. Its ingredients are in fact no more unusual, or bizarre, or unappetizing, than any hot dog you ever ate. How many anal glands are there in a chicken nugget?” – Anthony Bourdain

Haggis is comfortably the most famous and traditional Scottish food on Earth. It is so synonymous with Scotland, that it has earned its crown as our national dish.

But, what is it made from, I hear you ask? It’s chopped sheep’s pluck, heart, liver, kidney and lungs, mixed with oats and spices then baked in the sheep’s stomach. Nowadays it’s usually a synthetic case rather than sheep’s stomach but the rest remains the same. The ingredients put people off but if you can put that out of your mind, you’re in for a treat. What does haggis taste like? Well, it’s rich, spicy and delicious. 

You can also eat it in so many ways! The classic is with mashed turnips and potatoes – known as neeps and tatties. But, we also get creative with some alternative ways. Us Scots love our fried food, so you can have it  battered and deep-fried at the chippy (fish and chips takeaway). Other popular ways are: in little breaded bonbons; mixed through a sauce; stuffed into chicken breasts (chicken Balmoral); or in risotto.

To make the most of the food in Scotland, no trip would be complete if you didn’t try haggis, even if only a little bit. It’s bursting with flavour and you might surprise yourself and find out you enjoy it!

Katie and Matt, authors of The Plate Unknown

The Plate Unknown

Hey there! We are Katie & Matt, the duo who love food - and learning about it even more!

We have worked in the food industry for 30 years combined and are set to travel the world to continue learning about the food of the world.

Read more about us here.

New Year's Day Steak Pie

You’ll notice as you start looking for the items on this list, that almost all of these Scottish foods can be found in pie form. We love a pie in Scotland. For the king of all the pies though, it has to be the steak pie.

Rich gravy, tender slow-cooked beef and pastry. It’s food perfection.

It’s also the standard New Year’s Day family lunch. Everyone is hungover so they need meat, gravy and pastry – and lots of it! If you go into a Scottish supermarket in between Christmas and New Year the shelves will be filled to the brim with steak pies.

The best pies will come from a butcher if you’re cooking one at home. Out and about you want a gastropub type environment to make sure you get the best experience possible.

Be careful though – a Scotch Pie is not the same as a Steak Pie. The former is made with double-crust pastry as opposed to puff pastry used in steak pie. Often a steak pie will only have pastry as a lid, rather than being fully encased. 

Cross-section of Stornoway Black Pudding - one of the top Scottish foods to try

Black Pudding

Black Pudding is another example of the Scots loving their offal. It is also known as Blood Pudding in different parts of the world.

What is black pudding, I hear you cry. Well, it’s a deliciously seasoned combination of pork blood; pork fat or beef suet; onion; and either oatmeal or groats (oat or barley). Don’t let the blood put you off, good quality black pudding like Stornoway Black Pudding is not to be missed.

You will find it on most Traditional Scottish Breakfast plates. Alternatively, a classic pairing is with Scottish scallops, deep-fried at the chippy, or you may even find it in a salad because that’s we roll in Scotland.

Venison from red deer, Scottish Highlands

Staying with the theme of game, we next have venison. Red Deer roam across the Highlands, these aren’t the piddly little Roe deer you see in England but the 200kg beasts you think of when you summon an image of deer.

You will see venison year-round on many menus, more prominently the further north you go. Some will be Roe Deer, these are lighter in colour and have a delicate flavour. By comparison, Red Deer is much darker and gamier in flavour.

Venison does not come cheap, again each is shot especially. But perfectly cooked venison loin is wonderous.

You can go deer stalking in Scotland which is considerably cheaper than grouse shooting, but still a very expensive experience. You can have a couple of days deer stalking for around £800 per person.

Best Scottish foods: Rack of lamb

Scotland has a superb selection of meat and seafood. The lamb in Scotland is so good that the Michelin star restaurant I worked at in Cumbria used Scottish lamb on the menu as it was higher quality than the local offering. It was on the menu as “Cumbrian” but that’s a whole other thing.

The wide-open spaces of the Scottish Highlands are perfect terrain for sheep to run around happily until we decide to eat them. Slow roasted leg, stewed shoulder or beautifully pink racks of lamb grace many a restaurant menu and is something not to be missed!

Sunday roast dinner

Sunday Roast

Though not exclusive to Scotland, the Sunday Roast definitely deserves to be on the list of Scottish foods to try.

Roasted meat (chicken, lamb and beef are the most common) is served with crispy potatoes, root vegetables and lashings of gravy. Plus some Yorkshire puddings, if your Mum is from Yorkshire like Matt’s. What more could you ask for?

Traditionally it was a large family meal to be eaten after church on Sundays, now it can be found in many forms. From buffet-style carveries to pub lunches all the way to fine dining with tableside carving.

Too much whisky of a Saturday night? A roast will sort you out in no time.

Scottish Beef, Highland Cow

Scottish Beef

Scotland may lag behind other countries in terms of size or quantity of beef, but the quality has always been the focus. With Aberdeen Angus, Galloway and Highland cows all top meat producing breeds, Scotland is a steak lover’s dream.

There is also the Highland Wagyu farm which produces Wagyu beef that has been compared to Kobe in quality, and sadly also in price.

There are less dry rubs and sauces used on steaks in Scotland compared to the US or Argentina. Instead, a more French style of cooking is used, allowing the beef to be the star of the show.

There are plenty of fantastic farm shops and local butchers where you can buy some phenomenal steaks. Perfect in the kitchen or for a barbecue if you’re camping too.

Shooting Scottish Foods: Grouse

The most prized game bird in the UK is the grouse. It’s a small, quick bird most famous for being ‘the face’ of Famous Grouse whisky. They live amongst the heather in the Highlands and are hunted for sport.

The meat is served pink and has a light game flavour at the start of the season, the “glorious” 12th August. As the season progresses, so does the taste. It gets stronger until the season ends in early December. It’s only possible to get grouse during this period. As they are all shot, you also run the risk of an added ingredient – a piece of bullet – in your meal.

They are delicious just roasted with a bit of bacon, usually one bird per person. They are expensive so you’ll probably only see them in higher-end restaurants and speciality butchers.

It is possible to go grouse shooting but it is incredibly expensive, running into thousands of pounds per person or “gun”.

Mocoto is a Brazilian stew of cow’s feet, beans and vegetables

Attend a wedding in Scotland and, once everyone needs to rest their dancing feet, you will most likely be served up stovies. (Or rolls with tattie scones and lorne sausage). 

Up and down the country recipes vary slightly – everyone has their own. It literally means “bits from the stove”. The leftovers from a Sunday Roast would be thrown together to make this traditional Scottish dish. So, elements would usually include meat, mashed potatoes and vegetables. Many will use corned beef as the meat element.

Outside of restaurants or cafes with very traditional menus, you won’t often see stovies. It is more of an at-home dish. It is also significantly more popular on the East Coast than on the West. As it was made from leftovers, it is often considered a meal for the poor. Even today, some will turn their noses up in misguidede snobbery at a bowl of stovies.

Chicken Tikka Masala, Made in Glasgow

Tikka Masala

Britain as a whole has benefited hugely from immigration from the colonies. I am incredibly grateful to the Indian people who have come to the UK and improved our food scene endlessly, as well as doing lots of other equally wonderful things of course, by opening restaurants.

Tikka Masala has contested origins, as most things do. However, I choose to believe the lovely story that has it starting in Glasgow meaning it absolutely has to be one of the best Scottish foods to try.

The story starts in the 1970s in the Glasgow-based Scottish curry house, Shish Mahal,  which boasted a cult following. It is said that a customer complained his chicken tikka was too dry and sent it back to the kitchen. As luck would have it, Mr Ali (the owner) was on a liquid-based diet at the time due to a stomach ulcer. On hearing this, he decided to add some of his spiced tomato soup to the dish.

With customers returning time and again to enjoy this creation, the Chicken Tikka Masala was born. Most of the Indian restaurants in Scotland are Northern Indian or Punjabi restaurants, and almost all feature this curry on their menu. A must-try if you’re visiting.  

Top Traditional Scottish Breakfasts

Full Scottish breakfast, top Scottish foods

Full Scottish Breakfast

The lynchpin of any healthy diet is a solid breakfast. The full Scottish breakfast differs slightly from the full English in a couple of ways.

There is the sausage, bacon, mushrooms, beans, egg and black pudding which normally appear on both sides of the border. Plus, a full Scottish breakfast will normally have “tattie scone” which is a flat triangle of potato with flour, butter and salt. It’s fried until crispy. And maybe there will be some haggis too (white pudding).

Something you will see in Scotland is lorne or “square” sausage. This is more of a trapezium shape, but no one is saying that in Scotland without taking a beating. Normally it’s an option on a breakfast roll. It tastes very different to pork link sausages so this isn’t purely a shape option.

Crumpets are the simplest of all Scottish foods

Sometimes the best Scottish foods are the simplest.

It’s hard to describe a crumpet. It’s like bread but with holes in it and a uniquely springy texture. When making a crumpet, bubbles form in the batter when it is being proved. Then, when it is cooked, the bubbles expand which creates the identifying holes.

Scottish Foods to Try from the Sea

Traditional Scottish Arbroath Smokies

Arbroath Smokies

Next is a slightly less famous Scottish delicacy. Although it’s one of the very few that has protected status under EU law (for now), it is the Arbroath Smokie.

Arbroath is a small fishing town on the North East Coast of Scotland, just to the north of Dundee. Although the Smokie itself originates in the village of Auchmithie (Ok-mith-ee), a few miles further north.

Arbroath Smokie’s are hot-smoked haddock. You can buy them on their own to cook at home or you might find them included in other Scottish dishes. When dining out, the menu will always mention when they use Arbroath Smokies, as they are considered the gold standard of smoked haddock in Scotland.

They salt the fish overnight and tie them in pairs. They are then smoked over hot oak fires to give the intense smokey flavour they are famous for.

Cullen Skink, Traditional Scottish Food

Cullen Skink

The name may not be one that inspires images of delicious food, but Cullen Skink is one of the most ubiquitous Scottish foods you’ll find.

It is a soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Traditionally,  “Finnan Haddie” was the name given to the haddock used .

This soup originates from Cullen in Moray, in the North of Scotland. Hearty and bold, it is served with warm bread, as all good soups should be. On the rare occasion you find yourself caught in some suspect Scottish weather, a bowl of Cullen Skink will set you right in no time.

Finnan Haddie, Scottish Foods from Moray

Finnan Haddie

Finnan Haddie is similar to Arbroath Smokies in that they are both smoked haddock. However, Finnan Haddie is cold-smoked rather than hot-smoked.

Two villages, one in Aberdeenshire in the North East of Scotland and one in Moray in the North, claim to be the home for this process.

The town in Aberdeenshire is called Findon, known locally as Finnan – hence the claim on Finnan Haddie (haddie being the haddock). The Moray village makes a bit more sense as Finnan Haddie is a key ingredient of Cullen Skink, which comes from this area. But most likely, it has been made in both for hundreds of years.

You’ll see them in supermarkets as “undyed smoked haddock”. On breakfast menus in hotels it will usually be served with a poached egg and some foam of the milk they are poached in. It is also used to make Kedgeree, an Indian dish of rice, fish and eggs enjoyed for breakfast; and another common use is in a fish pie.

Smoked herring kippers

Kippers can be placed under the same “Smoked Fish” banner as a few of the other items of this list. It is also another of the Scottish foods that are enjoyed at breakfast. 

Kippers are whole herrings that have been butterflied, then cold-smoked over woodchips.

These would normally be smothered in butter and grilled or fried for a delicious breakfast. They are best not eaten where you’re staying as the smell tends to linger.

Kippers are certainly not an expensive treat. If it sounds a bit much for first thing in the morning – that’s what lazy brunches were designed for! They are really delicious and well worth trying if you haven’t before. Also, you need to eat them for your Scottish smoked fish bingo!

Scottish supper: Fish and chips

Fish Supper

The fish supper is a British institution, some may even say it is the national dish of Britain. The history of fish and chips runs deeply, with influences from refugees.

Fish and chips, known in Scotland as a fish supper, is a must-have for anyone visiting Scotland. Whilst quality varies wildly, when it’s done right it’s glorious.

In Scotland, the fish you’ll get is haddock. Whereas, in England, you’ll get cod.

So why a supper? It’s the chips part. Anything from the chippy (chipper, chip shop, takeaway – take your pick!) that you want with chips is a supper. If you want it without chips, it’s just a single.

If you’re at a chippy and fancy one of the many other delights I recommend a “pizza crunch”. This is battered deep-fried pizza. Although not available at all chippys, it’s a crunchy, chewy, cheesy texture sensation. Battered haggis is always a great shout too. For that truly authentic experience, you need to get some curry sauce. Warning! Chip shop curry sauce stains EVERYTHING it touches – I have lost many good tops to curry sauce.

Make sure and get salt and vinegar on your order. If you’re in Edinburgh, you will be offered salt and sauce instead. The “sauce” is brown sauce mixed with vinegar and it is an acquired taste, to say the least. If you’re sceptical, ask if you can get some in a tub rather than splashed all over your dinner.

Learn More About the Fish Supper Here

History of Fish and Chips   |  Best Fish and Chips in Edinburgh

Hand-dived Scottish scallops

Scallops are a favourite of high-end Chefs around the world. Declaring your scallops are from Scotland, adds a certain level of prestige to your menu.

Hand-dived scallops – and they need to be hand-dived as dredging does incredible damage to the seabed – used to be unsellable 40 years ago. Now, Scottish fisherman pre-sell their catch to the best restaurants around the world. You will see “Orkney”, “Oban” or just “Scottish” Scallops on menus in Michelin starred restaurants the world over.

You can certainly eat them in Scotland for cheaper than in these places, but they still aren’t cheap, sadly. Oban is probably the best place to get them. They come straight off the boats and you’ll find many bistro-style restaurants with them on the menu much cheaper than at fancier establishment.

If you’re planning to cook at home, you need a smoking hot pan. Flash for just 45 seconds per side and you should have them juicy and perfect. Serve with peas and Stornoway black pudding for a classic pairing.

Scottish langoustines

Langoustines

Norwegian Lobster is another name that Langoustines go by. They are like little lobsters which can grow up to 25cm in length. These are landed in the North Atlantic and exported globally for huge money.

Langoustines aren’t as expensive as lobsters or scallops, so a great choice to get your shellfish fix. If you’re happy to cook and shell them for yourself, you can find them at quite reasonable prices.

In terms of restaurant menus, again these will be at the pricier end of the spectrum. Plenty of places to eat in Scotland offer huge seafood platters with all the amazing Scottish produce which could be worth splashing out on for a chance to try everything.

Wild salmon, one of the best Scottish foods

Scottish Salmon is something we just take for granted these days. With the farms off the West coast and wild salmon caught in the fresh rivers, it is one of the most common Scottish foods. 

The superior quality, texture and taste of Scottish Salmon mean it is sought after and celebrated around the world.

Smoked Salmon is one of our favourite Scottish foods to try at breakfast time. Other popular ways to eat it are in sandwiches and as a starter. You can find it in hot and cold-smoked varieties, offering subtle differences in the flavour.

Personally, I’m a fan of cold-smoked salmon with scrambled eggs and a glass of champagne. It’s the ultimate breakfast when you want something a little special. Maybe not an everyday breakfast, but definitely a great treat.

If you want to know how to perfectly sear fish, including Scottish Salmon, click here .

Learn More About Scottish Salmon Here

Scottish Salmon   |  Sear Fish

Best Scottish Desserts

Enjoy traditional Scottish food, the deep-fried Mars Bars in Edinburgh

Deep-Fried Mars Bar

Something you will definitely hear about if you spend any length of time in Scotland is the deep-fried Mars Bar.

This is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. The chocolatey treat, Mars Bar, is first chilled -chilling is essential so it doesn’t melt instantly in the fryer. It is then dipped in batter and deep-fried until crispy on the outside and gooey in the middle.

This sweet and savoury, crispy and gooey snack is so much better than it sounds on the surface. Although not recommended for anyone who is following any kind of diet plan.

I am incredibly biased as the deep-fried Mars bar is believed to have originated in my hometown of Stonehaven, just to the South of Aberdeen on the east coast of Scotland. It is credited to John Davie who worked at The Haven fish and chip shop (now The Carron ). The first mention of it was in the Aberdeen Evening Express in 1992.

If you are looking to try this cultural icon for yourself just be aware that not all Fish and Chip shops (Chippy or Chipper, depending on where you are in Scotland) will do this for you. They need to have a separate fryer for it as it can taint the oil.

Traditional Scottish Butter Shortbread

The best accompaniment to a cuppa has to be the simple but delicious buttery shortbread. The buttery deliciousness is almost too good to do justice to with words alone.

Shortbread first appeared in a Scottish cookbook dated 1736. The recipe was amended over time and by 1850, a ratio of just butter, flour and sugar was being used – and is still used to this day.

The unique flavour comes from the quantity of butter used. In 1921, the British government legislated that at least 51% of the fat in shortbread must come from butter. This requirement only exists in the UK – so make sure you are getting the real deal if you buy elsewhere.

This is now such a staple of the biscuit aisle, that in 1980 the EU threatened to classify it as a “common biscuit”. This resulted in a battle, with the Scottish Association of Master Bakers arguing that the biscuit’s ancestry as a “flour confectionery” gave it additional status. The bakers won.

Picnic of the best Scottish cheeses and wine

Now, I’m a firm believer that cheese should be enjoyed at all times of the day and in all situations. However, I understand that not everyone is quite as obsessed, preferring their cheese as an after-dinner delight.

Scotland may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of cheese. But you would be mistaken for dismissing it offhand.

Having access to some of the greatest cattle and sheep means great milk and outstanding cheese. Plus, the Scottish cheese and dairy industry is constantly growing so are sure to find a new favourite.

Millionaire's shortbread

Millionaire’s Shortbread

The old saying goes that in Scotland only a millionaire can afford to have chocolate AND caramel on their shortbread. It is a mildly offensive joke about Scottish people, but then the Scottish are known for their tongue-in-cheek humour too. 

Millionaire’s (or caramel) shortbread is made of 3 layers. Shortbread on the bottom, caramel in the middle and chocolate on the top. The thickness of each layer will vary from baker to baker.

Shortbread is great, caramel is great, chocolate is great. There’s no way this can’t be absolutely great! You’ll find cafes selling monstrous chunks of the stuff across Scotland and it is a delicious treat.

Tablet is a delicious Scottish food treat

Scottish Tablet

Tablet is just about as good for you as something your doctor might prescribe.

This Scottish treat is kind of like fudge but it has a crumbly texture, not a chewy one. It’s the perfect combination of butter, sugar and condensed milk. So eating tablet will keep your dentist happy too!

If you’re lucky you might find a little square on the edge of your coffee at the end of a meal or in a cafe. When hunting out the best Scottish tablet, your best bet is a church coffee morning.

Tablet was first mentioned in the early 18th century in Scotland. It can be flavoured with whisky or vanilla, but most varieties don’t include flavouring as it’s delicious enough on its own.

Cranachan is one of the lesser known Scottish foods

Pronounced cran-a-can , Cranachan is one of the lesser-known Scottish foods. It was first eaten to celebrate the harvest, made after the raspberry harvest in June. It’s made with raspberries, cream, oats and whisky – combining many of the finest Scottish ingredients into one delicious dessert.

It’s not the most common dessert on menus across the country but if you can find some we highly recommend tucking in.

Top Scottish Drinks

Whisky is Scotland's National Drink

So we said “Scottish foods” and this is technically a drink but it’s one of the nation’s most important food and drink products – in fact, it’s one of the most important products at all. So it has to be included here and if we’re being really picky, let’s just call it a “liquid lunch”.

There are around 140 distilleries in Scotland. How whisky is made at each varies, producing many different ages, barrel finishes and special editions. The choice can be quite dizzying.

Even if you aren’t a fan of whisky you really should try a couple – a finish you haven’t experienced before might surprise you. Lots of places will have staff who are able to help you navigate the intricacies of the nations most famous beverage.

Learn More About Whisky Here

How is Whisky Made?   |  Whisky Regions Scotland Best Whisky for Beginners   |  Scotland Whisky Tours

Irn Bru, Scottish Traditional Food

The iconic bright orange soft drink of Scotland. It is affectionately referred to as a ‘tin of ginger’ and hailed as the cure for all ails, including a hangover.

Scotland is, allegedly, the only country in the world where the top-selling soft drink isn’t made by Coca-Cola.

A.G. Barr’s Irn-Bru is a Scottish institution, though it was recently ruined by a government tax on sugary drinks. This forced most drinks to lower their sugar content, increasing the sweetener levels to compensate. This resulted in national outcry and mourning for the Irn Bru from ‘back in my day’. It is still, however, a must-try.

The rumour told to children is that it turns your insides orange as there is so much food colouring in it. As it’s hard to find evidence to back this up, it sounds more like parents trying to warn their children against the fizzy drink!

If you want to try it in it’s original and best form then grab an Irn-Bru energy or a bottle of Irn-Bru 1901. The energy drink is very close to the original flavour and the Irn-Bru 1901 was specifically brought out to have the original flavour of the drink.

Scottish foods and drinks: Daffy's gin & tonic

Continuing on a theme of “Scottish foods” to try in liquid form, we have gin.

Gin has been a huge part of British culture since it was brought over from Holland in the 17th Century. The drink has never been more popular and there are gin distilleries scattered across the whole of Scotland with an incredible array of different botanicals and styles. To work out which is the best gin for you, we have put together a list of our top Scottish gins .

Checking out a local distillery is a great day out too, particularly if you’re unlucky enough to have some rain whilst you’re visiting. Ditch the car and get fully involved in the tasting!

Learn More About Gin Here

What is Gin?   |  Scottish Gin

Pouring a cup of tea

Tea is a British institution; there is no situation too grave that it can’t be solved by a good cup of tea.

There’s nothing that will upset a Brit more than being given a poorly made cuppa.

For us, the best way to enjoy tea is in the form of Afternoon Tea. Serving sandwiches, scones and cakes with your tea is very civilised and an excellent way to squeeze an extra meal into the day.

Afternoon tea can be quite pricey but you usually get a hefty amount of food and endless tea. Plus, in the unlikely event you can’t finish everything, they will box it up and you can save it for later!

The tea selection will usually be fairly comprehensive. This gives you the chance to try a few different teas and to glug through huge quantities of your favourite.

Want to Know More About Scottish Foods?

Now you know what all the top Scottish foods to try are, delve in a little deeper: Best Places to Eat in Edinburgh   |  Scottish Cookbooks   |  Traditional Food of Scotland

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Scottish food is some of the best, and weirdest, in the world. Check out this list of the 26 top Scottish foods to understand what they are and why you must try them. From haggis, to cullen skink, to the deep-fried mars bar - it's all covered here! #scottishfood #haggis #scotland

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visit scotland food

Food in Scotland – 12 Popular Scottish Foods to Try

Scotland is known as the land of the kilted highlander, with its tartan plaids and bagpipes, but it has a rich culinary history that dates back centuries. If you’re open to expanding your culinary horizons, then food in Scotland is exciting.

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Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

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Food in Scotland Smoked Salmon for breakfast

Discover how Scottish cuisine has evolved, and learn more about the nation’s most popular dishes.

If you’re ready to learn more about the famous food in Scotland that you must try, read on!

12 of the most popular food in Scotland:

Table of Contents

1. Cullen Skink

An odd name, but don’t miss trying a bowl of this tasty, creamy fish soup.

If you’ve tasted clam chowder in the USA or a seafood bisque in France, then Scotland’s version of fish soup is Cullen Skink. 

Food in Scotland Cullen Skink

Ingredients include smoked haddock (fish), onions or leeks, potatoes, and fresh herbs with milk or cream to thicken.

I love this dish and am confident you’ll enjoy it too. This food in Scotland is undoubtedly one that you must try.

2. Fish & Chips

Fish & Chips are usually a good choice when travelling anywhere in the UK, but they’re even better in Scotland! Don’t ask me why; it just tastes fresher up here.

visit scotland food

Haddock is the typical fish on the menu at your local ‘chippy’ (fish and chip shop) served up battered and deep fried until perfectly golden, then served with a generous portion of hand-cut chips.

Many places make a homemade tartare sauce, so be sure you get some. I think it’s the key to a good meal of Scotland’s food favourite of classic fish and chips.

3. Haggis, Neeps & Tatties

You’ve likely heard about ‘haggis’ when anyone mentions Scottish cuisine, but you may not know what it is. Haggis is Scotland’s national dish and a much-loved comforting meal. You could say this dish is a famous food in Scotland.

Food in Scotland Haggis Neeps and Tatties

It’s a tasty dish that is prepared from a boiled mix of finely chopped sheep offal (liver, heart and lungs) and mixed with suet, oatmeal, spices and seasonings.

Haggis is typically served with neeps (creamy mashed turnips), tatties (mashed potatoes), and other foods I adore. Doesn’t everyone love mashed potatoes?

If you want to get right into Scotland food traditions, order your haggis with a nip of whiskey to wash it all down.

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4. Oatcakes

Scottish oatcakes are similar to flatbread or savoury biscuits.

Made using oats, as the name suggests, and Scots usually eat them topped with cheese, spreads, pate or alongside one of the delicious soups mentioned in our list of the best food in Scotland.

Food in Scotland Oatcakes

Oatcakes are available for purchase from any supermarket or small store.

They’re the perfect snack food in your travel bag as you make your way around Scotland independently or on a small group tour discovering the highlights of Scotland.

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5. Scotch Broth

Nothing is better than a bowl of this hearty and filling soup on a blistering, cold, rainy Scottish winter day. 

Core ingredients include barley, root vegetables, mutton, lamb, or beef pieces, and dried pulses. Best eaten with dense soda bread, don’t miss it.

Food in Scotland Scotch Broth

Did you know that some of the best whiskey in the world is produced right here in Scotland? The clear water and fine malted barley used in the distillation process to produce an exceptional drink are a few reasons for this.

It is thoroughly enjoyed in Scotland and exported worldwide to other nations.

Food in Scotland Whiskey

In addition, Scotland and its islands are home to countless whiskey distilleries, making them the perfect place to sample a variety of malts – from the delicate and soft flavours to the smokey and strong types.

I am a big fan of whiskey and I highly recommend this Whiskey Experience in Edinburgh  if you’d like to learn more about Scotch whiskey and taste some different blends too.

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7. Steak & Ale Pie

Food in Scotland Steak and Ale Pie

A favourite dish across the UK, and a popular pub classic food in Scotland. Large chunks of beef are stewed with fresh herbs and ale to create a lovely filling for the yummy steak and ale pie.

Placed into a dish and covered with a piece of puff pastry, this meal is a hearty one!

Usually served with chips and peas, it’s certainly one of my favourites.

8. Scotch Eggs

Food in Scotland Scotch eggs

A super simple concept, and very addictive; especially after a few ales or shots of whiskey! Scotch eggs are cooked eggs encased in sausage meat, then breaded and fried.

The secret to a good scotch egg is the sausage meat’s flavouring, herbs, and spices. Warning – You can never stop at just one.

9. Porridge

It makes sense that porridge would be a popular food in Scotland due to the weather and cold temperatures here.

You can expect your porridge in Scotland to be served with fresh berries or even a nip of whiskey to keep you warm for bracing the icy climate when you head outdoors.

Food in Scotland Porridge

10. Full Scottish Breakfast

You could say that the full Scottish breakfast is quite similar to a full English breakfast, also known as a fry-up.

But, the main difference with the Scottish version of typically fried eggs, toast, baked beans, bacon, pork sausages, tattie scones, mushrooms, and fried tomatoes is the addition of black pudding.

And for those wondering what black pudding is, it’s a blood sausage that originated in the UK and Ireland.

Food in Scotland Full Scottish breakfast

It’s an acquired taste and made from pigs’ blood and mixed with pork fat, oatmeal, barley, onions, and spices. Many people avoid tasting this food in Scotland once they hear that pigs’ blood is a core ingredient.

And that’s OK, but be sure to try a full Scottish breakfast during your visit to Scotland; it will surely keep you going for exploring the 10 Best things to do in Edinburgh or a Rabbies Tour of Scotland ( get 5% off all Rabbies UK/Ireland tours if you use our promo code, NOMAD5)

11. Fresh Seafood

visit scotland food

Did you know that Scotland is known to have some incredibly fresh seafood? I tried as much as possible during my 5 Day Northern Coast & Orkney Tour of Scotland.

I enjoyed some tasty lobster and delicious (and huge) hand-dived scallops at the Kirkwall Hotel in Kirkwall during our visit to the Orkney Islands.

The smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on the breakfast menu were also perfect. I highly recommend the Kirkwall Hotel if you’re up this way.

And if you’re interested in exploring some unique neolithic sites, Viking history and pristine areas of Scotland, check out our post about why you should visit the Orkney Islands .

12. Smoked Fish

Smoked fish is a popular food in Scotland. It’s the perfect food for extended sea journeys and a staple of fishermen and fisherwomen.

I’d imagine it was something that Vikings may have eaten back in the day as they moved through these lands back in the day.

Food in Scotland Smoked Haddock for breakfast

The smoked fish in Scotland is excellent, with the most popular types of fish being haddock, salmon and kippers.

Try one or all of them during your visit – it’s some of the best-tasting fish you’ll ever eat.

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about Scottish foods and the food in Scotland that you need to try. Is your favourite Scotland food on this list? 

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. Trust us, it’s one of those things you don’t want to leave home without. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing Travel Insurance.

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Don’t miss our post on  7 Reasons you Should Visit the Orkney Islands In Scotland  and also the Top 10 Things To Do In Scotland Edinburgh .

Travelling in Europe and the UK has been incredibly busy since the pandemic finished, but our post on  7 Best Tips for Traveling to Europe will ensure you have the best time on this fantastic continent.

We’ve got a bunch of helpful blogs to help you travel this region. Check out our post on  What is an eSIM? The Best eSIM for Europe  and our  ULTIMATE Packing List for Europe.  

For all the food lovers, we’ve got you covered with our  Complete Food Map of Europe .

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 15% off Heymondo, offer expires 24 March!) & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

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💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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A Foodie’s Road Trip on Scotland’s West Coast

Home > Blog > A Foodie’s Road Trip on Scotland’s West Coast

“Eat local, eat fresh, eat natural.”

It’s a mantra resounding across the foodie world and, luckily, an easy goal to strive towards in Scotland. The entire foundation of Scottish food culture and identity is based on natural ingredients easily found in our great outdoors – think Scottish raspberries in a traditional cranachan dessert, haddock that abounds in the surrounding seas used to create our traditional fish soup Cullen skink, or a Scottish roast beef accompanied by local root vegetables grown in Scotland’s fertile green spaces.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Porter & Rye (@porterandrye) on Jun 2, 2018 at 7:13am PDT

While haggis may spring to mind when you think of Scottish cuisine, what epitomises our cooking is not the stereotypical dishes but rather our fresh, natural produce. By the end of this blog, you may be sick of me using the words “local” and “home-made”, for they chime out of tiny cafes and large restaurants across Scotland.

Scotland’s west coast offers jaw-dropping scenery and some of the very best Scottish food experiences, and this is my guide to making the most of this foodie coastline. The incredible seafood bars and Michelin-recommended restaurants feature, of course, but so do smaller cafes that serve up a hearty slice of cake and a creamy cappuccino. It’s all about exciting your palate and warming your heart as you drive this stunning country …

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Stacy Smith (@stacy__j__smith) on Feb 16, 2019 at 7:59am PST

First nibbles …

Starting from Glasgow, my foodie journey begins by heading north to beautiful and mesmerising Loch Lomond – the biggest expanse of inland water in the UK and the perfect spot for a picnic. Take a stroll up one of the iconic hills close at hand such as Conic Hill beside Balmaha, or the Cobbler at Arrochar. Here you can have a welcome stretch of the legs ready to pack in as much food as possible.

At the picturesque village of Luss, stopping for refreshments at the  Coach House Coffee Shop  is compulsory. Here they fill their teapots to the brim and their cakes come in generous slices.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Coach House Coffee Shop (@coachhousecoffeeshop) on Apr 17, 2017 at 9:15am PDT

Loch Fyne …

Venturing on towards the shores of Loch Fyne along the A83, you’ll travel past the iconic beauty spot the  Rest and Be Thankful . On the shores of Loch Fyne is the legendary  Loch Fyne Oyster Bar , a Scottish gastronomic icon where clean and unfussy seafood allows you to delve wholeheartedly into the fresh flavours and beautiful views. The menu continuously changes depending on the season and the catch brought in by fishermen each day.

The restaurant focuses on supporting the local community through the provision of the very best seafood sourced with the least environmental impact possible. Some favourite dishes are the oysters served with smoked anchovies and parmesan and the Tarbert scallops, smoked bacon and garlic butter – a sublime culinary experience.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Home of Good Eats & Recipes (@that_foodguy_scotland) on Jan 23, 2019 at 3:42am PST

Close at hand the exemplary seafood can be washed down with a beer from  Fyne Ales Brewery , made using water from the hills surrounding their spectacular Glen Fyne location.

Stock up on some bottles for later or perhaps choose to try the succulent steak pie served up in their bar, made using beef sourced from their own herd of highland cattle.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Fyne Ales (@fyneales) on Nov 21, 2016 at 4:34am PST

Heading up the coast …

The coast now beckons, but along the way I’d visit picture-perfect Inveraray for some sightseeing at the 19th-century Jail. A caffeine and cake hit is again needed upon passing Lochgilphead – the thick chocolate tiffin from The Square Peg would be my traybake of choice.

From here it is just 15 minutes to Crinan where the renowned seafood bar of the Crinan Hotel awaits. Dinner is served just 50 yards from the pier where the freshest seafood is landed each day. Dine on jumbo prawns, crayfish, clams, lobster, mussels or oysters as you watch the bustling life of the sea lock.

Upstairs, the Michelin recommended Westward Restaurant offers five-course gourmet dinners overlooking the sea towards the Isle of Jura and the whirling Corryvreckan. Their seasonal menu features delights such as Sound of Jura lobster and whole Loch Crinan langoustines with garlic aioli, as well as non-seafood dishes such as a roast rack of mouthwatering Argyll lamb.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Crinan Hotel (@thecrinanhotel) on Jul 4, 2018 at 5:28am PDT

On to Oban …

Meandering up the coastline to my next eating destination, stop for some culture at Kilmartin Glen. This is a special place and one of the most important archaeological sites in Scotland – start at the museum and be sure to visit their stone barn cafe and courtyard. The homemade (of course) white chocolate and cranberry scones are unequivocally delicious.

Reaching Oban, ‘Scotland’s Seafood Capital’ – the choice of seafood and classic fish and chips is overwhelming. By the ferry terminal, you can purchase langoustines plucked fresh from the sea. Nearby, a hot smoked salmon sandwich from the Oban Seafood Hut or Food From Argyll at The Pier may be the best bread and filling combination you’ve ever eaten.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Shehnaz Bashir RD ???????????????????????????? (@gutsy_dietitian) on Jul 22, 2018 at 12:13pm PDT

Along the main street, you can buy salt and vinegar-laden chips and look out to the harbour.

For something to satisfy that undeniable post-savoury sweetness craving, the  Oban Chocolate Cafe  serves up white and milk chocolate fish and chips in a newspaper-lined box, Irn Bru and whisky truffles, and chocolate orange waffles topped with handmade chocolate flakes.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Oban Chocolate Company (@obanchocolate) on Dec 16, 2018 at 1:00pm PST

Hopping across to the Isle of Mull …

Having sat staring out to sea admiring the beautiful views and basking in the joy of trying some of the best seafood in Scotland I wouldn’t yet be content. The sea itself calls and my next stop is across the water.

A 45-minute ferry from Oban, the Isle of Mull is famous for wildlife, the coloured houses that line the pretty harbour of Tobermory and most importantly, its wonderful, locally-produced food and drink.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hidden Scotland (@hiddenscotland) on Feb 9, 2019 at 5:44am PST

Mull is home to the world-famous  Isle of Mull cheddar  – a brand synonymous with premium quality. At the island’s dairy farm you can watch firsthand as the ivory-coloured cheese is crafted to create a distinctively sharp and fruity flavour.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by bridgeland market (@bridgelandmarket) on Dec 3, 2018 at 1:51pm PST

A visit to Mull would be incomplete without visiting the amazing  Cafe Fish  in Tobermory where the portions are enormous and quality sublime.

Set idyllically overlooking the harbour, their menu is scribbled onto a board each day and features the freshest ingredients possible. Their Sound of Mull scallops with a Malaysian coconut and turmeric laksa sauce are the perfect fusion of international spice and sea flavours.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Luca Magaró (@lucamagaro)

Off the beaten track …

Would you take a ferry just to reach exceptional food? A delicious idea to me! Getting to  The Whitehouse Restaurant  by Lochaline is not easy, but after the Corran ferry and a 12-mile drive south, your tastebuds will be richly rewarded with a menu underpinned by locally-foraged ingredients and simple flavours. They offer a carefully-sourced 4 to 6-course tasting menu that is worth every picturesque mile.

Perhaps try smoked mackerel terrine, Gigha halibut exquisitely decorated with edible flowers, or crab and smoked salmon ravioli … need I say more?

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Whitehouse Restaurant (@thewhitehouserestaurant) on Sep 5, 2017 at 11:24pm PDT

Inland to Fort William …

For the crème de la crème of Scottish dining experiences, head to the opulent  Inverlochy Castle Hotel  for a once in a lifetime meal in magnificent, royal surroundings. Their fine dining rooms are charmingly decorated with decadent furniture gifted by the King of Norway and their 3 AA rosette restaurant runs seamlessly under the expert rule of legendary father and son duo Albert and Michel Roux. Not to mention the setting …

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Inverlochy Castle Hotel (@inverlochycastlehotel) on Jul 20, 2017 at 2:28pm PDT

The menu focuses on modern British cuisine with French influences, created using the best local produce. Their tasting menu is a fabulous option to trial your taste buds on exquisitely presented and mind-bogglingly creative dishes such as their recent seaweed cured sea trout or roast Atlantic cod.

If you fancy a truly British experience you could also book in for  afternoon tea   for a memorably indulgent end to your Scottish foodie adventure.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Inverlochy Castle Hotel (@inverlochycastlehotel) on Mar 3, 2018 at 6:51am PST

Eat Your Way Around Scotland

If you are a foodie like me I highly recommend basing your holiday around a few iconic Scottish culinary experiences. Didn’t I mention you’d be sick of me saying that everything is local? Come and see for yourself!

Caitlin Rush

P.S.  Established in Edinburgh in 2004, Absolute Escapes are award-winning specialists in  self-drive holidays  in Scotland. Our team have turned our love of exploring Scotland into our day job – we know exactly where to find the best accommodation, the best food and drink experiences, and how to turn your trip into an unforgettable one.  Send us an enquiry  now and start planning your delicious trip to Scotland!

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The Strathisla Distillery, Moray.

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Food and Drink Itineraries

Renowned for the incredible quality of our food and drink, scotland is a destination where your clients can enjoy the freshest seafood and best grass-fed meat, a wealth of award-winning whisky and gin, to the infamous haggis and much, much more, these itineraries will help you plan a scottish foodie-lovers’ trip that will delight your clients’ taste buds, as they learn about scottish culture and traditions directly from the scots who are custodians of our incredible food and drink heritage today., the options showcased in the itineraries include tasting a world-famous whisky while touring a distillery and hearing the fascinating tales of its history, watching traditional scottish cheese recipes being made before sampling them, taking a chocolate making workshop, enjoy a scottish cookery workshop, joining a fun city food and drink tour, or learning how arbroath smokies are made and why they’re famous, among many other possibilities., your clients could even take a farm tour, relax and enjoy a field to fork experience and meet some of our iconic highland cows – one of the most sought-after photo and selfie opportunities on a scottish trip.

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A 10 day scotland itinerary for food and drink lovers.

Before traveling to Scotland I sort of assumed the entire country was covered in water, mountains, and plaid. After all, Scotland seems like the wild north of the United Kingdom. There is more to it than that.

If you have 10 days in Scotland to explore, there are a few options on how to make the most of the journey. In this post, we share our recommendations for the best 10 day Scotland itinerary, with a focus on food and drink travelers.

*This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my  DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Planning A Trip To Scotland When You Love Food And Drink

Many Scotland trip planners focus on hiking and nature. They end up putting together these long trips to see the most typical Scottish landscape.

Outside of the big cities, though, it’s impossible to NOT see the stunning landscapes. The question is, then, how do you put together a Scotland travel itinerary when you might not be interested in hiking for days on end? 

I will be honest, and this is not news to regular readers, we are not hikers, or campers, or backpackers. Instead, we like comfort, affordable luxury, and culinary travel.

That’s why we came up with a recommended 10 day itinerary that we think is the best Scotland itinerary for people who don’t want to hike Scotland. Instead, we focus on where to eat and drink and see the amazing landscapes, all in complete comfort. 

In this post, we offer a few different recommendations for a Scotland trip itinerary. We offer recommendations on how to plan a road trip through Scotland. I also offer Scotland vacation ideas for travelers who don’t want to travel independently.

These trips are from some of the most reputable tour companies in the world. We also provide some general Scotland travel tips, on how to explore some of the most popular destinations in the country.

Best Whiskey Glasses – Choosing The Best Glass To Drink Whiskey

How To Book Hotels In Scotland

Since leaving the US over a decade ago, we’ve traveled to Scotland numerous times. During these trips to Scotland, we learned a few things about booking hotels in Scotland. We’ve stayed at stunning luxury hotels like the Dowans Hotel of Speyside and Sherbrooke Castle Hotel in Glasgow. And sadly we have stayed in our fair share of not-so-great hotels in Scotland.

When planning our trips to Scotland, we use Booking.com for hotels in Scotland. In addition to booking hotels, we’ve used them to book apartments in Scotland for longer stays. We’ve even found some charming and less expensive guest houses in Scotland on Booking.com.

Traveling to Scotland? Check out our Scotland Packing Guide  

What To Eat In Scotland - Seafood

How To Use This Scotland Travel Guide  

My first trip to Scotland was in 1993. Yes, that was a long long time ago in a galaxy far far away. Together, Eric and I have traveled to Scotland a few times over the last few years. On each visit, we spend longer and longer and are always planning our next trip.

For this guide, we offer a few options for travelers who want to plan the perfect Scotland 10 day itinerary. We offer options for travelers who want to visit the main cities and then arrange a road trip through the Scottish countryside.

I also include options for organized Scotland vacations in case you want someone else to plan the trip for you – totally understood! 

When it comes to the places to visit in Scotland, we provide detailed tips. In each city, region, or destination, I provide recommendations for the top attractions and bonus attractions if you have more time, all with a focus on culinary travelers.

I am also including recommendations for the best Scotland accommodations in each of the best places to visit in Scotland. Last, I will include recommendations on  what to eat in Scotland  and where to eat where possible.

Check out our Scotland Food Guide – What To Eat In Scotland

Where To Visit In Scotland In Ten Days

I am not a fan of itineraries that offer options to see the best of Scotland in a short amount of time. The Scotland trips we recommend below push the envelope of how many stops you can make within 10 days.

I prefer a 10-day itinerary to find 3 or 4 places to visit, max, and make the most of those stops. Within 10 days, I recommend visiting both Glasgow and Edinburgh as well as one or two areas outside of the big cities. 

As much as Scotland is a small country and you can drive across it in a day, that doesn’t mean you should do that! It’s better to pick a handful of destinations you want to visit and to make the most of the time you have to explore. 

If you follow our Scotland driving itinerary, you can see the best of Scotland in only 10 days. It will include cathedrals, castles, distilleries, nature, coastline, mountains, and animals.

And, of course, it will include fabulous places to eat and drink in Scotland. This means classic, hearty Scottish cuisine, whiskey, beer, and even gin.

Check out our Scotland Drinks Guide – What To Drink In Scotland  

How To Travel For 10 Days In Scotland

How To Travel For 10 Days In Scotland

A 10 Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

Over the years, we’ve visited Glasgow and Scotland for city breaks and we’ve explored the countryside with a rental car. This itinerary starts in Glasgow and ends in Edinburgh. In between, you explore one of the top destinations for whisky tourism, Moray Speyside. 

In order to self-drive in Scotland, you obviously need to rent a car. We recommend  AutoEurope for rentals in Europe. They can provide the best deals from a variety of car rental companies depending on your itinerary.

You can pick up the car in Glasgow or Edinburgh and return to the same city or drive from one to the other depending on your flights. We offer a lot of recommendations on how to drive in Scotland in another post. 

Here, we focus on how to drive Scotland during a 10 day itinerary. It’s actually pretty hard to see the best of Scotland without renting a car. Cities breaks are possible, but to explore the countryside, a car is needed. 

Get the best rates on a rental car for Scotland self-drive tours here

10 Day Scotland Itinerary – Glasgow To Edinburgh Via Speyside

This itinerary includes the best places to visit in Scotland if you love to eat and drink. I recommend starting in Glasgow, which is a slightly more cosmopolitan city than Edinburgh, but it can also be reversed. Here I recommend the best things to do in each destination, where to stay, and where to eat and drink. 

Travel from Glasgow to Speyside by heading north along the A9 in the direction of  Cairngorms National Park . Drive along the edge of the park in the direction of Aberlour. The total journey takes about three and a half hours.

On the return south, you can also hop on the A9 and pretty much reverse course, just breaking to the east for Edinburgh instead of returning to Glasgow. This journey also takes about three and a half hours. In fact, Glasgow and Edinburgh are almost on the same parallel. 

Clydeside Glasgow Distillery

Glasgow Travel Tips – 3 Days

I always assumed that Glasgow was a little rough around the edges, a little too much for us to visit. Maybe it feels this way in the heart of the winter when it is grey and cold, but I loved our time there.

So much so that we are considering spending a few months in Glasgow in the summer within the next few years. We simply loved it. There is plenty to do during two or three days and offers an opportunity to adjust to travel if you are arriving from overseas and are subject to jetlag . 

Things To Do In Glasgow

Any list of the top things to do in Glasgow will include the  Glasgow Cathedral , the  Glasgow Botanical Gardens , and  Kelvingrove Art Gallery . The city is known for its gothic architecture and there is plenty of shopping or window shopping in the city center.

If you are a Harry Potter fan, check out  Glasgow University , which is known for being an inspiration for Hogwarts. 

For food and drink travelers, though, we recommend learning about scotch whisky as part of your Scotland sightseeing goals.

This can start right in Glasgow by doing a little self-guided  whisky tour of Glasgow . Or, book a full or half-day tour either in the city or out of the city. Here are a few options for food and drink experiences in Glasgow. 

  • Book a distillery tour and tasting within the city. This Scottish whisky tour includes two local whisky bars as well as the only distillery within the city limits. 
  • Or save the distillery tour for Speyside later in the trip and explore four local whisky bars with a knowledgeable guide who can explain the world of whisky. Book  here . 
  • Escape the city for the afternoon to visit a classic Highland distillery. On the way, stop and marvel at Loch Lomond. Book  here . 

Check out our Glasgow Whisky Drinking Guide  

Scotland Food Guide - What To Eat In Scotland

Where To Eat In Glasgow Scotland

Places To Eat And Drink in Glasgow

There is no shortage of great restaurants in Glasgow, one of the reasons why we can’t wait to return and spend even more time there. Some of the top restaurants in the city include the  Ox And Finch ,  The Finnieston , and  Ubiquitous Chip .

They tend to offer more contemporary Scottish and international cuisine. I find the offerings for more traditional Scottish food to be better in Edinburgh and in Speyside. 

Another option for craft beer lovers is to visit BrewDog, which originated in Aberdeen. Many Scots look at BrewDog as a success story. They have locations in  Aberdeen ,  Glasgow , and  Edinburgh . The Glasgow location offers a large menu of well-prepared pub grub. 

There are two unique food tours on offer in Glasgow as well for an interesting way to eat your way around the city. Both involve dining on board a refurbished, classic double-decker bus from the 1960s.

One involves gourmet burgers on board but for something a little more Scottish, how about afternoon tea on board a double-decker bus? Book afternoon tea  here . 

Best Scotland Tours In Glasgow

Where To Stay In Glasgow Scotland

Where To Stay in Glasgow

If renting a car for your entire Scotland tour, then be sure to find a hotel that has easily accessible parking. Otherwise, pick up your car on the last day in Glasgow before heading out into the country.

We stayed at the  Moxy Glasgow , a newer hotel from the  Marriott  family. It was a great value option, but in the East End, east of the city center.

I felt it was a bit far from the neighborhoods that are the best for food and drink. Rather than being east of the city center, I would recommend something more walkable to Finnieston, Kelvingrove, or the West End. This includes the city center, just not east of it. 

Keeping this in mind, here are our recommended hotels in Glasgow. 

Luxury Hotels : Try the  Kimpton Blythswood Square  in the city center, with rooms from €200 a night, or the  Hilton Glasgow Grosvenor Hotel , which is close to the Botanical Garden and all of the action in the west end, with rooms from €200 a night. 

Boutique Hotels : The  Dakota Glasgow  is in more of a commercial neighborhood but within walking distance to everything in the city, with rooms from €160 a night and a reputation for fabulous dining.

Or, the  Malmaison Glasgow  is in the same neighborhood in an old converted church and just oozes with character, with rooms from €125 a night.

Value Hotels : There are a handful of reputable hotel chains with locations in the city center or just west of there, including  Ibis Styles ,  Jurys Inn , and the  Park Inn by Radisson . All offer rooms starting under €100. 

Get the Best Rates For Glasgow Hotels at Booking 

holidays in Scotland

Speyside 4 Days – Scotland Scotch Tours

For people who love food and drink, there is no better destination in Scotland than Moray Speyside, which is just north of both Glasgow and Edinburgh. Moray is also sandwiched between Aberdeenshire in the east and the Highlands and Inverness in the west.

It offers scenery, nature, mountains, and a coastline, all within one compact region. Moray Speyside offers the best of Scotland, relatively close to the big cities. 

Why Moray Speyside

At its most northern point, Moray (pronounced like “Murray” in the Scottish accent) includes a rugged coastline dotted with fishing villages.

The coastline of the  Moray Firth  gives way to the plains of Moray, where agriculture rules. It’s a landscape dotted with Highland Cows (called coos) and loads of sheep. At the southern end is the  Cairngorms National Park , where the plains start to inch upwards into characteristic Scottish Highland hills. 

As promised, there is a coastline, nature, animals, mountains, and yes, even some castles. Speyside is most known, though, for being home to the largest concentration of whisky distilleries in Scotland.

This is why it makes it one of the best places to visit in Scotland. The region hosts the Malt Whisky Trail, the only malt whisky trail in the world.

Learn More About Speyside’s Malt Whisky Trail  

Scotland tourist attractions

What To Do In Scotland In Moray Speyside

Things To Do In Moray Speyside

One of the most interesting things to see in Scotland for whisky lovers is the Speyside Cooperage. This is one of the most interesting stops on the Malt Whisky Trail. A cooperage is a place where barrels are made and you can’t make scotch whisky without the barrels.

The  Speyside Cooperage  is located in Dufftown, on the road that leads from the distilleries around Aberlour and those in Dufftown and Keith. Learn more about how to visit the distilleries in our  Malt Whisky Country Guide .

In Elgin, visit the  Elgin Cathedral , which dates from 1224. Elgin is also home to one of the most well-known Scottish cashmere producers,  Johnstons of Elgin .

Nearby in Fochabers, visit  Gordon Castle  and its stunning walled garden. It’s filled with lavender during the summer. There are a series of historic, Scottish castles that dot the landscape as well. This includes  Ballindalloch Castle ,  Balvenie Castle , and  Duffus Castle .

The Moray Coast Trail includes about 50 miles of coastline, which can be traversed on foot over several days. Or, take a drive from Findhorn in the west to Cullen in the east. There are cliffs and sandy beaches in little pockets along the way.

Towards the east is  Bow Fiddle Rock  in the small town of Portknockie. Sometimes you can even spot dolphins playing just off the coast. The rivers Spey, Findhorn, Avon, and Livet are home to various types of Scottish salmon and trout – perfect for fishing excursions. 

Places to go in Scotland For Food And Drink

What And Where To Eat And Drink In Speyside

Here are just a few recommendations on where to eat in Speyside. Starting with cafes and casual restaurants, check out one of our favorite places to eat in Moray, the  Bothy Bistro  in the seaside town of Burghead.

The owners of the Bothy Bistro also opened Dory, a double decker bus restaurant in the  West Beach Caravan Park  in Hopeman, just down the road. 

For more traditional Scottish pubs, we really enjoyed the  Copper Dog Pub  in Craigellachie. Located in the Craigellachie Hotel, the Copper Dog Pub focuses on farm-to-fork traditional and contemporary Scottish food from within Speyside.

They also offer local craft beers, gins, and whisky cocktails including their own Copper Dog Whisky.

For slightly more elevated dining, check out the two restaurants located in the  Dowans Hotel  in Aberlour. Spé offers a nightly four-course tasting menu featuring locally sourced produce and proteins.

Or, for everyday dining, their restaurant 57 prepares a seasonal and locally sourced menu showcasing the diverse range of food products from the Moray Speyside region. 

Craft Beer And Gin In Speyside

There are a handful of craft beer producers in Moray. Look for these beers on tap and in some of the local restaurants and pubs. Some of the local brewers include  Speyside Brewery ,  Spey Valley Brewery ,  Brewmeister Keith Brewery , and  Windswept Brewing Company . 

There are also a dozen artisan gin producers in the region as well. Check out  Eight Lands Distillery  on Glenrinnes Estate. They are an organic gin and vodka distillery run by women. They offer tours as well. 

Scotland Road Trip - Hotels

Where To Stay In Speyside

We’ve stayed at four different hotels and inns in Moray Speyside. The region is relatively small, so no matter where you say you are able to drive to all of the main attractions.

There are no international hotel chains in Speyside, which means all hotels and inns can be considered boutique hotels. 

Luxury Hotels : Built in 1893, the Craigellachie Hotel and its 26 rooms feel more like a luxury, countryside family home than a hotel. Rooms at The Craigellachie Hotel  start from €170 including breakfast. Originally a Victorian mansion, the Dowans Hotel was reborn in 2012 by the Murray family.

Now featuring 16 contemporary en-suite rooms, the Dowans Hotel maintains its historic past while providing modern comfort and hospitality.

Rooms at  The Dowans Hotel  start at around €190 a night including breakfast. Both hotels offer restaurants and whisky bars and are some of the best-located hotels to visit the distilleries in the area. 

Value Inns and B&Bs : Closer to Elgin and Forres, check out the  Knockomie Hotel  or  Ardgye B&B , which both offer less expensive rooms in historic buildings. 

Get the Best Rates For Speyside Hotels at Booking 

Scotland Tours From Edinburgh

Edinburgh Travel Tips – 3 Days

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination in Scotland and was the first city I visited years ago. It’s almost a no-brainer when it comes to where to go in Scotland. I would recommend, if possible, avoiding the weekends when Edinburgh can get crazy busy.

Things To Do In Edinburgh

One of the first places to visit in Edinburgh has to be the Royal Mile and Edinburgh’s Old Town. It’s just fun to wander the alleyways that lead off the Royal Mile in search of Scottish pubs and whisky bars.

The Mile ends at  Edinburgh Castle , one of the most famous in the UK. Visiting Edinburgh Castle includes seeing the Scottish Crown Jewels. (Here’s a pro tip: Book your tickets to the Castle ahead of time and  skip the line !) 

Check out the  Grassmarket  area as well. It was the city’s original market. Over the centuries livestock was sold there, it suffered bombing during WWI, and has hosted executions – that’s some history. Now it’s home to restaurants, pubs, cafes, and boutiques. 

One of the best things to do in Edinburgh is the  Scotch Whisky Experience . Even after visiting a few distilleries in Speyside, the visitor center is worth a stop.

Or, take things up a notch and do a  Scotch master class . Or,  book an Edinburgh food tour  with food tastings and information about traditional Scottish dishes, including haggis! 

Learn More About Scotland’s Whisky Regions  

What To Eat In Edinburgh Scotland

Places To Eat And Drink In Edinburgh

I love Glasgow for international and contemporary cuisine, but I love Edinburgh for traditional Scottish foods. There are plenty of options for pubs and gastro pubs that specialize in classic dishes, like haggis with neeps and tatties and sticky toffee pudding.

Also check out options for a full Scottish breakfast, particularly on the weekend. Some of our favorite go-to Scottish pubs for food (and pints) include  The World’s End  and  The Royal McGregor  both on the Royal Mile as well as  The White Hart Inn  on Grassmarket. 

Check out our full  Edinburgh Food Guide .

nice places to visit in Scotland

Where To Stay In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is one of the most popular destinations in Scotland and in the United Kingdom. As I mentioned above, I would avoid the weekends when the city explodes. I also would recommend booking hotels as early as possible.

Hotels in Old Town are often more expensive. New Town is a great option and only a 10-minute walk away. In the end, everything in the center of Edinburgh is accessible and within walking distance. 

Luxury Hotels : There is no shortage of luxury hotels in Edinburgh, all in historic buildings with high-end appointments and top-notch service. Check out  The Balmoral , with rooms from €300 a night, or a name synonymous with luxury hotels, the  Waldorf-Astoria Caledonian , with rooms from €200 a night.

Boutique Hotels :  The Glasshouse  is a great boutique option with a mix of contemporary and retro decor, with rooms from €170 a night. Or, check out the  Nira Caledonia , with rooms from €150 a night. 

Value Hotels : We stayed at two different IHG properties in New Town, which is about a 10-minute walk to Old Town. Both properties run less than €100 a night and both good options for value hotels in Edinburgh. Check out the  Hotel Indigo on York Place , which is a little more contemporary, and the  Holiday Inn Express City Centre . 

Get the Best Rates For Edinburgh Hotels at Booking 

A 10 Day Scotland Itinerary For Food And Drink Lovers

A 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Guided Tours Of Scotland

The 10-day Scotland itinerary above can be accomplished on your own. I think I’ve give all the tools you need to put the itinerary together. I understand, though, that for some people the best tours of Scotland are the ones that you don’t have to plan for yourself.

Here, I make recommendations for guided tours of Scotland. They take you a bit further and offer more destinations. This also means moving a lot more, every night or two. But, these Scotland getaways include everything you need to visit Scotland. 

Intrepid 10-Day Scotland Tour Itinerary 

Intrepid is a company that started out as a backpacker tour company, but since its beginnings in the late 1980s has become one of the top tour companies in the world. And they don’t just cater to backpackers anymore. 

This  Scotland Highlands Itinerary  also starts in Glasgow and ends in Edinburgh. Instead of spending time in Speyside, though, this tour heads to Loch Lomond, the Isle of Skye, and Loch Ness. It’s a small group tour with no more than 15 people, so you are not getting transported around on a giant tour bus.

There are some walks and light hiking as well as a Scotland distillery tour. The tour includes breakfast each morning, but no other meals. The tour includes guided tours in both Glasgow and Edinburgh as well.

Book This Tour With Intrepid Here 

scottish coo

G Adventures Scotland In A Week

G Adventures is a tour company that specializes in authentic and sustainable trips around the globe. Most of the G Adventures tours in Scotland last for more than two weeks and head pretty far north.

Their  Highlights of Scotland  tour, though, lasts just a week and is the perfect introduction to the country. The tour starts in Edinburgh and finishes in Glasgow. It heads to Inverness with a train ride through the Cairngorms National Park. Then it heads west to the Island of Skye before heading back south to Glasgow.

This tour spends less time in both Edinburgh and Glasgow than the Intrepid tour, so it is the perfect opportunity to add a night or two in either city to expand this tour to a 10 day itinerary in Scotland. 

Book This Tour With G Adventures Here 

FAQs – Scotland Itinerary For Food And Drink Lovers

18. You can legally drink alcohol at 18 years of age in Scotland. Children under 18 can have a glass of beer or wine at dinner in a restaurant so long as it’s with their parent’s permission.

For the most part, dinner is served between 5:30 pm and 9:00 pm. There’s always the exception but most Scots eat dinner early.

You can expect to pay around 10-12 GBP (13-15 USD) for the main course in a “normal” restaurant. Pub food might be less expensive but not by much.

Amber Hoffman

Amber Hoffman, food and travel writer behind With Husband In Tow, is a recovering attorney and professional eater, with a passion for finding new food and drink destinations. She lives with her husband, Eric, in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. Together over the last 20 years, they have traveled to over 70 countries. Amber is the author of the Food Traveler’s Guide to Emilia Romagna. She regularly lectures on social media marketing to travel professionals throughout Europe.

2 thoughts on “ A 10 Day Scotland Itinerary For Food And Drink Lovers ”

There is no mention of Blackness On Sea or the Lobster Pot Pub on the Firth of Forth. any reason?

Never heard of them until now. We’ll certainly find a way to visit them the next time we are in Scotland. Thanks for the tip.

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Scotland Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 14, 2024

a castle in the Highlands, Scotland

Partially conquered by the Romans, Scotland is a land with a turbulent past. It was invaded countless times by the English during the Middle Ages before the Treaty of Union in 1707 united the continent (an unpopular move at the time). Since then, it’s been a part of the United Kingdom (though there is a growing movement for independence).

While Scotland may be a small country (only 5.4 million people call it home), it’s had a huge impact on the direction of the world. Economist Adam Smith, inventor of the telephone Alexander Graham Bell, novelist Robert Louis Stevenson (he wrote Treasure Island ), philosopher David Hume, ecologist John Muir — the list of famous Scots goes on.

I love visiting Scotland. The people, the jovial spirit, the landscape, the booze — Scotland never disappoints (ok, maybe a little with the food). It’s an incredible destination for road trips so make sure you get out of the cities and into the highlands with their rich jagged landscapes. And be sure to head west to the islands of Islay, Jura, and Mull.

This travel guide to Scotland can help you plan where to go, what to see, how to save money, and everything in between!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Scotland

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in scotland.

The towering Edinburgh Castle overlooking the city on a sunny day in Scotland

1. Explore the Scottish Highlands

Visit the highlands of Scotland for moody mountains, rugged terrain, glaciers, lochs, and kilt-clad Scotsmen. While the land may be harsh and unforgiving, you haven’t really seen Scotland until you’ve been here. Don’t miss Glencoe, Cairngorms National Park, Inverness, and the Isle of Skye.

2. Visit Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a glorious city filled with medieval cobblestone streets, lots of green space, free museums, a huge castle, and maybe even some ghosts. There’s a lot to do here so be sure to spend a few days. It’s an amazing place.

3. Celebrate Hogmanay

Hogmanay is one of the largest New Year’s celebrations in the world, attracting over 100,000 people for the two-day festival. The modern iteration has musical acts, a torchlight procession, multiple fireworks displays, and a large street party.

4. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay . It’s been made there since the 16th–century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in big distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and is famous around the world.

5. Visit Inverness

Besides the historic buildings in the Old Town, there is a great selection of places to eat and drink, Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and a Victorian Market. Plus, it is close to Loch Ness (it’s less than a 30-minute drive away), a bunch of distilleries, and a few golf courses.

Other Things to See and Do in Scotland

1. try to find nessie.

Loch Ness is one of the most famous lochs (lakes) in Scotland. It’s the alleged home to Nessie, aka the Loch Ness Monster, a creature said to live in the loch. The first “sightings” date back to the 1870s, though there is no definitive proof that any such creature exists. Nonetheless, the myth perseveres, making Loch Ness a popular destination to visit. While here, you can take a cruise, hike in the nearby hills, and enjoy some of the smaller nearby towns and villages like Dores or the nearby ruins of Urquhart Castle. The best way to get here is to travel to Inverness, from which Loch Ness is close enough to take a day trip to (it’s just a 25-minute drive from Inverness to Lochend, the top of Loch Ness).

2. Wander around Glasgow

Glasgow is a busy and bustling city, home to a youthful population (there is a university here) and a picturesque downtown. With plenty of parks, historical monuments, and museums, there is plenty to do here if you’re on a budget. It’s also a vegan and vegetarian hotspot too! Don’t miss the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, relaxing in Glasgow Green, seeing the cathedral, and day-tripping to the nearby Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

3. See the cathedrals

The cathedrals in Scotland are marvelous with their unique Gothic architecture and imposing heights. A few of the top cathedrals to visit are Dunfermline Abbey and Palace in Fife, St. Magnus Cathedral in the Orkney Islands, St Giles in Edinburgh, and Melrose Abbey in the Borders. Also, don’t miss the Glasgow Cathedral, which was built in 1136 and is the oldest building in Glasgow. Admission is free though donations are encouraged.

4. Puzzle over Rosslyn Chapel

This historic chapel near Edinburgh is ripe with intricate artwork and symbolism that has spawned many conspiracy theories (not to mention books). (Like why is there corn on the wall if corn wasn’t discovered until centuries later?). it was featured heavily in The Da Vinci Code and is located just an hour outside Edinburgh. Admission costs 9.5 GBP.

5. Play golf

The Scottish invented golf in the 15th century. If you’re not lucky enough to play a round at St. Andrews (the most famous course in the country) there are plenty of other immaculate and challenging courses to keep any golf player happy. Try to play during the low season (between November and March) if you want the lowest prices (St. Andrews, for example, costs 220 GBP to play in high season, versus 98 GBP in low season). Castle Stuart (Inverness), Royal Dornoch (Dornoch) , and Muirfield (Gullane) are some other great courses worth playing.

6. See the Cuillin

This dramatic mountain range dominates the Isle of Skye. There are two main ridges (the red and the black), which can be visited as a day trip or a longer two-day hike. Much of the mountain range, which stretches 14 kilometers (8.6 miles), can be hiked, though some peaks require more technical climbing skills. There are campgrounds and a hostel nearby in Glenbrittle as well. Some of the most popular trails are Rubh’ an Dùnain (3-5 hours, easy), Coire Lagan (2 hours, moderate), and Sgùrr Alasdair (6-8 hours, hard).

7. Visit Ruins of Melrose Abbey

Robert I (also known as Robert the Bruce) was the King of Scotland from 1306 until his death in 1329. Legend has it that his heart is buried in the ruins of Melrose Abbey. The abbey, founded in the 12th century and located in Melrose, was repeatedly destroyed by the English in the 14th century. You can still see marks on the surviving walls from cannonballs during the English Civil War. The abbey ruins (which is only a ruin of its former self, composed of several standing walls and arches) are decorated with intricate artwork carved into the remaining stone walls. Admission is 6 GBP.

8. Explore Dundee

Dundee is a lively student city along the coast with a lot of interesting museums. It’s a UNESCO City of Design and is the sunniest spot in the country too. Don’t miss a visit to Discovery Point to learn about the famous Antarctic expedition that launched from here in 1902 on the RSS Discovery (which you can board at the visitor center). Also, be sure to take in the great street art, the Vaults (a series of underground tunnels that date back to the 1750s), and The McManus Art Gallery as well.

9. Visit the Mystical Smoo Cave

The sleepy town of Durness, located 193 kilometers (120 miles) north of Inverness, is the access point for Smoo Cave , a coastline cave complex that can be explored independently or on a tour. Evidence from charcoal samples shows that it may have been inhabited over 4,000 years ago. The cave is free to enter but guided tours, which take you deeper into the cave, are 10 GBP. You get to see a lot more on the tour than you would if you just visit independently. Tours last around 20 minutes.

10. Head to the Isle of Arran

Located 2.5 hours west of Glasgow, this isle is a popular tourist destination for its charming scenery of jagged hills and rugged coasts, walking trails, and historic villages. Visit Brodick Castle, go for a hike, keep a lookout for seals and golden eagles, and enjoy the remote scenery. Don’t miss the Machrie Moor Stone Circles (which are sort of like Stonehenge) — they date back almost 5,000 years!

11. Explore the Cairngorms

Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK, spanning 4,528 square kilometers (1,748 square miles). Located two hours from Edinburgh by car, it makes for a great getaway for anyone looking to get out and see the highlands. The park is dotted with beautiful B&Bs in historic stone buildings and there are several campgrounds available for anyone traveling in a camper van or with a tent. Wild camping is also permitted, providing you do so responsibly. The park offers lots of hiking trails too. Don’t miss Ryvoan Pass (easy), Dalraddy to Ruthven (moderate), and Ben Macdui (difficult). If you visit in the winter, you can also go skiing on Cairn Gorm Mountain. If you’re lucky, you may spot some of the reindeer that call the park home (it’s the only herd in the British Isles). Admission to the park is free.

12. Attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival. It usually lasts three weeks and takes over the entire city of Edinburgh. There are tens of thousands of performances including plays, musicals, live music, puppet shows, and much more! There are literally thousands of different shows held and hundreds of venues around the city. It’s a massive festival and brings in upwards of 3 million visitors. It’s a zany, inspiring, and entertaining festival and one that shouldn’t be missed. Just make sure you book your tickets and accommodation in advance as things fill up fast.

13. Tour the Isle of Skye

This popular island off the northwestern tip of the country is a scenic place to take a road trip. The island offers sweeping views over the rugged coastline, hiking trails, castles, waterfalls, and quaint villages and B&Bs. While most people just visit for a day, I suggest spending a few days driving around and getting off the beaten path. You can visit by bus if you don’t have a car, however, having your own vehicle will give you much more freedom. Don’t miss Dunvegan Castle, the Old Man of Storr rock formation, and brother’s point.

  For more information on cities in Scotland, check out these guides:

  • Edinburgh Travel Guide
  • Glasgow Travel Guide

Scotland Travel Costs

A historic castle in Scotland near the water in the highlands

Accommodation – Most 6-8-bed dorms in Scotland cost 18-22 GBP per night, though prices rise a few pounds in the summer and drop a few in the winter (you can find hostels for as little as 12 GBP in the off-season). Free Wi-Fi and lockers are standard, and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Private rooms in a hostel cost around 40-65 GBP per night.

Budget hotels cost around 55-75 GBP per night with standard amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and coffee/tea makers. Some include free breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available in Scotland and is especially useful in the smaller towns and villages where there are fewer traditional hotels and hostels. A private room generally costs 25-30 GBP per night while entire homes/apartments start at 55 GBP per night, though most options are 70 GBP and above.

If you want to camp, expect to pay around 17 GBP per night for a basic plot (a small flat space for a tent without electricity). Most campgrounds close for the winter so availability is limited come late October/early November. If you’re in a car or campervan, you can use the app “park4night” to find paid overnight parking, free overnight parking, and campgrounds.

Food – Scottish food is hearty, heavy, and filling. Seafood is abundant, and popular traditional dishes include blood pudding, minced beef, fish and chips, smoked herring, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), and of course haggis (a dish composed of minced sheep’s organs and spices inside a sheep’s stomach casing). Porridge is a common breakfast choice, though a larger breakfast of sausage, eggs, beans, and bread is not uncommon either. Sticky toffee pudding is a favorite dessert, and of course, you can’t visit Scotland without sampling some scotch.

Expect to pay around 10-12 GBP for a basic meal (like a Scottish breakfast). For pub food like a burger or fish and chips, prices are usually between 12-20 GBP for a meal. For a full three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant, prices begin around 27 GBP.

A pint of beer is around 4 GBP while a glass of wine is around 5.50 GBP. A latte or cappuccino is around 2.70 GBP.

If you’re looking for fast food (think McDonald’s), expect a combo meal to cost around 6 GBP. A classic fish and chips from a no-frills takeaway spot is around 6 GBP, while Chinese takeaway is around 8-10 GBP. Street food (like from a food truck) costs around 6-8 GBP. Eat near the universities for the cheapest food options.

A week’s worth of groceries costs around 40-60 GBP. This covers basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. The cheapest supermarkets to look out for are Aldi, Lidl, Asda, and Tesco.

Backpacking Scotland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Scotland for around 55 GBP per day. On this budget, you’re staying in a dorm room or camping, cooking all of your meals, using local transportation, sticking to mostly free activities (like hiking, museums, or free walking tours), and limiting your drinking.

On a mid-range budget of about 105 GBP, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out at cheap local restaurants for a few meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting castles or doing a whisky tasting.

On a “luxury” budget of 210 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink what you want, take the train between cities or rent a car, and visit as many museums and attractions as you’d like. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — you can easily spend more if you want to splash out!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

Scotland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Scotland is expensive, there are lots of ways to lower your costs. Here are some tips to help you save money in Scotland:

  • Get the Edinburgh City Pass – If you’re planning to explore Edinburgh, get the City Pass. For 45 GBP, you get access to 22 attractions as well as free transportation to and from the airport. There is also a two-day pass for 55 GBP and a three-day pass for 65 GBP.
  • Eat in a pub – The best food is often in the pubs at a fraction of the price compared to a proper restaurant. Also, pubs generally give you a true taste of Scottish culture. Scotland is pub-land – they’re everywhere.
  • Eat during lunch – Many cafes, bakeries, and chains offer lunch deals for as little as 3-5 GBP.
  • Visit the free museums – The public museums in Scotland are free so take advantage! Free museums include The National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
  • Use buses – If you need to go anywhere, buses are by far the cheapest way to reach the widest range of places on a regular schedule. You can even find tickets for just 1 GBP from Megabus if you book far enough in advance.
  • Avoid eating and shopping in the city centers – Both Glasgow and Edinburgh get significantly more expensive the closer you get to the city center. There are plenty of good restaurants and quirky shops outside of the center, so go for those. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
  • Use apps to get food deals – On the app Too Good to Go, participating eateries sell severely discounted meals/groceries/baked goods at the end of the day. You just sign up, see what is being offered near you, and pick up your cheap food at the end of the day. It has good coverage all across Scotland, particularly in Edinburgh. For discounts on takeout try the app Secret Takeaways which supports local restaurants in Edinburgh and Glasgow by cutting out the delivery app middleman (and their high fees).
  • Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on accommodation in Scotland. You’ll not only save some money but get access to a knowledgeable local who can help point you to some of the country’s hidden gems. It may not be fancy, but you’ll get a unique experience and learn far more about the destination than if you stayed in a hotel!
  • Take a free walking tour – If you want to understand more about the history, architecture, and people of Scotland then be sure to take a free walking tour. They usually last a couple of hours and are a great introduction to the city. New Europe has a great free tour in Edinburgh and Visit Scotland offers one in Glasgow.
  • Cook your own meals – Eating out in the UK isn’t cheap. Save yourself some money and cook a few meals for yourself. It may not be as fancy as eating out, but your wallet will thank you!
  • Rent a campervan – If you’re planning to get out of the city, rent a camper van. You can get them for as little as 30 GBP per day. They come with basic self-catering facilities so you can cook your food and have somewhere cheap to stay. There are lots of free places to park around the country. Just use the app park4night to find them.
  • Use BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing app you can use to travel in between cities. It’s faster than the bus and usually just as cheap. You have to find a ride, which can sometimes be hit or miss, but the profiles are verified and reviewed so it’s quite safe. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with other locals/travelers.
  • Use discount websites – Groupon, Wowcher and Living Social have good deals on accommodation, attractions, and dining out.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Scotland

Accommodation in Scotland isn’t cheap, but there are nevertheless lots of great hostels to stay at to help you meet people and save money. Here are my favorite hostels in Scotland:

  • Castle Rock (Edinburgh)
  • Edinburgh Backpackers (Edinburgh)
  • Kick Ass Grassmarket (Edinburgh)
  • Glasgow Youth Hostel (Glasgow)
  • Euro Hostel Glasgow (Glasgow)
  • Broadford backpackers (Isle of Skye)
  • Stirling Youth Hostel (Stirling)

How to Get Around Scotland

The famous steam train from Harry Potter crossing an old bridge in Scotland

Public Transportation – Public buses and trams cost around 1.50-2 GBP for one-way ride. For a single-day pass, expect prices to start at 4 GBP per person. In Glasgow, a 7-day public transportation pass costs 17 GBP.

Only Glasgow has a subway system and the tickets for the bus and metro are not interchangeable as they are operated by two different companies (though prices between the two are comparable).

Airport shuttles cost around 6-8 GBP each way.

Flying – Flying around Scotland is both inconvenient and expensive. There are very few direct flights, making it slower to fly than to take the bus. I would avoid flying and just take the bus or train.

Bus – Buses are a popular and affordable way to get around the country as they link most destinations in the country. Scottish Citylink, Stagecoach, Megabus, and National Express are the four main companies that operate here. Tickets can be found for as little as 1 GBP via Megabus, though they’re usually around 10-25 GBP.

Edinburgh to Glasgow, for example, is a one-hour bus ride that costs 8 GBP while the three-hour journey from Glasgow to Inverness costs around 20-30 GBP. The sooner you book your ticket, the lower the price, so always try to book in advance. The coaches here are modern and comfortable with bathrooms and Wi-Fi as well.

Train – Trains connect all the major cities in Scotland (as well as the towns and villages they pass through). When purchased in advance (12 weeks out is the sweet spot), tickets are only a little more expensive than the bus. For example, Inverness to Glasgow takes about as long as the bus and is only 30 GBP while Edinburgh-Glasgow is 30 minutes faster than the bus for just 1-2 GBP more. Just be sure to book early to get the best prices. Last-minute tickets can be expensive!

Car rental – Scotland is a great road trip destination. You can get cars for 20 GBP per day and campers for 30 GBP per day. Just remember that traffic flows on the left. Most vehicles are manual transmissions as well. Renters need to be at least 21 years of age.

Rideshare – Ridesharing apps like Uber are a reliable but expensive way to get around in cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. Skip them if you can.

For longer distances, use BlaBlaCar. It’s a ridesharing app that pairs you with drivers who are traveling to other cities. They have profiles and reviews (similar to Airbnb) so it’s quite safe. It’s usually not as cheap as the bus, but it’s faster and more comfortable.

When to Go to Scotland

Summer is the most popular time to visit Scotland. In July and August, there’s warm weather and minimal rain, with temperatures reaching highs of around 20°C (68°F). This is also the busiest time of the year, so expect crowds in the cities and lots of people out enjoying the national parks. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place in August, which is a huge multi-week festival. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance if you’re visiting during this time.

September is a rather wet month, though in October there’s incredible fall foliage. Overall, October is a great time to visit — especially if you plan on renting a car or camper and heading into the Cairngorms (Scotland’s biggest national park). Seasonal businesses and accommodations start to close in mid-October so be sure to keep that in mind when planning. Expect October temperatures to hover around 12°C (55°F) during the day.

The spring is a great time to visit, with April and May offering minimal rain and no crowds. There’s still snow and cool temperatures in the highlands, but the cities are lively without being crowded.

Winters in Scotland are cold and dark. December is relatively dry, with temperatures dipping below 0°C (32°F). It’s nevertheless a popular time to visit, with many tourists coming to Edinburgh for the huge Hogmanay New Year’s Eve celebration (one of the biggest New Year’s festivals in the world). Book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to attend.

By February, snow is common so keep that in mind if you plan on renting a vehicle. Unless you’re coming to engage in winter sports, I’d avoid a winter visit unless you don’t mind the grim and grey atmosphere of the country.

How to Stay Safe in Scotland

Scotland is a safe country, even for solo travelers, and even for solo female travelers. Like in all cities, stay vigilant when you’re in crowded tourist areas or on public transportation as that is when pickpockets usually strike. If you keep your valuable secure, however, you shouldn’t have any issues.

Additionally, solo female travelers don’t need to worry in Scotland, however, women should take the standard precautions when traveling alone at night (don’t travel alone intoxicated, keep an eye on your drink, etc.).

Keep in mind that traffic flows on the left here. Most vehicles are manual transmissions and have the gear shift on the left (which is opposite to most other countries). Driving might take some getting used to so drive carefully — especially in cities and when going through roundabouts.

If you are hiking, make sure you have the appropriate equipment and notify your accommodation of your plans just in case as the weather can change quickly in the highlands.

While scams here are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re concerned.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it in Scotland!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Scotland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
  • BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Edinburgh Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Scotland and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Edinburgh

The 6 Best Hotels in Edinburgh

The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

Where to Stay in Edinburgh: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Edinburgh: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

A Complete Visitor’s Guide to Rosslyn Chapel

A Complete Visitor’s Guide to Rosslyn Chapel

Searching for the Perfect Dram on Islay

Searching for the Perfect Dram on Islay

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Visiting Scotland? Here’s what the locals love

From finding a secret beach to teeing off at a storied golf course, these are the top experiences Scots recommend.

A deer stands in the hillsides.

Though Scotland is small (30,000 square miles) its countless castles, islands, and lochs make it hard to decide where and how to spend your time. We asked local experts to help narrow down your choices, from a celebrity chef’s favorite restaurants to a golf writer’s preferred championship courses.

Sip sweet whiskies in Scotland’s distillery hub

With over 50 distilleries, Speyside is Scotland’s most prolific whisky-producing region. “Most Speyside distilleries are renowned for their production of whiskies that are smooth and sweet, with flavors of vanilla, honey, dried fruits—even Christmas cake,” says David Craig, founder of Spirit of the Spey , which runs distillery tours by canoe.

Craig suggests visiting The Balvenie distillery in Dufftown for its working malting floor and on-site cooperage; Speyburn in Rothes for its “perfectly preserved” traditional drum maltings; and the “picturesque” Speyside Distillery , set in a converted water mill in Kingussie.

Photograph majestic deer on a Scottish ridge

Stares at the scenery around them through their binoculars

Scotland’s dramatic scenery is a big draw for photographers. “I would recommend a light mirrorless camera for all the walking and hiking you will be doing, with rain covers, a 24-70mm lens, a 70-200mm or even something longer as the deer are often a long way off,” says Nat Geo photographer Robert Ormerod .

One of Ormerod’s preferred places for wildlife photography is the Alladale Wilderness Reserve , which has been at the forefront of Scotland’s rewilding efforts . “At the right time, you can hear stags rutting and you can sometimes see them silhouetted against the skyline as they move about the hills and ridges.”

Dig into Scotland’s top-tier locavore scene

“While we often complain about our weather in Scotland, our rainy climate is perfect for growing,” says celebrity chef Nick Nairn , who runs several restaurants across the country.

These days, there’s more variety at Scottish restaurants than ever before, with chefs championing homegrown ingredients. The Newport in Newport-on-Tay, Fife, and the Glenturret Lalique Restaurant near Crieff, Perthshire, are both great options for locavores. But Restaurant Andrew Fairlie , in the Gleneagles Hotel, is one of Nairn’s all-time favorites. “It has its Secret Garden, which allows them to source their own fruit, vegetables, edible flowers, and herbs.” It’s also one of only two restaurants (with Glenturret Lalique) in Scotland with two Michelin stars.

A chocolate with florals on inside.

Go off-grid and offline

Despite Scotland’s small size, it’s surprisingly easy to escape the modern world. Local travel writer Harris Clark recommends the Knoydart peninsula, which has no roads in or out and is accessible only via a ferry or a three-day hike. “Ladhar Beinn [on Knoydart] is one of Scotland’s most dramatic munros [Scottish mountains over 3,000 feet], dominating the horizon like a peak in a Tolkien adventure,” he says.

Scotland’s network of over a hundred bothies—no-cost basic shelters—are another way to go offline. Clark’s favorite is the Garbh Choire Bothy , which is “legendary among mountaineers” for its location, “perched like an eagle’s nest under the towering cliffs of Braeriach in the Cairngorms.” The bothy is located at grid reference NN959986 on an Ordnance Survey map ( or app ) but there’s no marked trail leading to it; Clark recommends it for experienced hikers only.

Find secret beaches on the wild west coast

Soft light fills the coast of a small seaside village.

Known for wind, waves, and whales, Scotland’s west coast is unmatched for sheer drama. One of the most captivating sections is the beach-ringed Ardnamurchan peninsula, the mainland’s most westerly point. Jessica Thompson, co-owner of hotel and restaurant Mingary Castle on Ardnamurchan, names Sanna Bay as her top spot. “It showcases the best of Scotland’s coastlines with beautiful, white shell sand and clear, turquoise sea. It offers amazing views of the small Isles Rum, Eigg, Muck, and Canna and many visitors have spotted whales and dolphins.” For drams with sea views, Thompson recommends the Ardnamurchan Distillery .

Explore design history in a UNESCO creative city

Despite a population of just 148,000, Dundee is a UNESCO City of Design and is home to Scotland’s only dedicated design museum: the Kengo Kuma-designed V & A Dundee. Jewelry designer Genna Delaney draws inspiration from the city’s varied architecture—including its historic jute mills —and rocky coast. “Dundee has a thriving creative community; the DCA [Dundee Contemporary Arts] and the V & A host many events to bring creatives together,” she says.

As well as events, the DCA holds regular workshops and exhibitions, as does The McManus art gallery, which Delaney recommends visiting for its sweeping Gothic architecture.

Get up close with endemic wildlife

A light house sits at the end of a long walkway with brush around it under a deep blue sky.

Scotland has an “amazing array of species,” says conservationist Tom Bowser, founder of the Argaty Red Kites rewilding estate in Perthshire. He suggests visiting the Isle of Mull for otters, hen harriers, dolphins, and the majestic white-tailed eagle, one of Scotland’s two endemic eagle species. “Tour companies like Nature Scotland and Mull Charters offer superb opportunities to see these birds,” says Bowser.

Closer to home, Bowser’s preferred Perthshire tour operator is Aquila Ecology in St. Fillans. It’s “run by incredible naturalists” who “offer the chance to see beavers, eagles, red squirrels, and more.”

Play on a championship course in the birthplace of golf

Playing the last few holes of St Andrews’ Old Course is “almost a spiritual experience,” says David Jones, who runs the golf course review site UK Golf Guy . “Every great in the history of the game has made the same walk back towards the town.”

But Prestwick , which hosted the first ever Open Championship in 1860, may be “the most fun of them all,” adds Jones. And Muirfield is “one of the best laid out courses anywhere; the routing of a clockwise front 9 with the anti-clockwise back 9 inside means the wind rarely plays in the same direction.”

Discover music’s next superstar at a storied Glasgow venue

Witnessing a gig in Glasgow—a UNESCO City of Music —is so special, it almost doesn’t matter whom you see. “There simply isn’t a better crowd than the Glasgow crowd,” says Iain Diamond, director of events company Crowdsurf Network Services . “Expect friendly faces, helpful hands up from the moshpit, and plenty of banter.”

“The Barrowland Ballroom is iconic, from its neon sign to its sprung dance floor,” adds Diamond. “David Bowie and Dave Grohl both said it was their favorite place to play.” He also loves King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut   for scouting local talent, but his favorite spot is Nice N Sleazy : “Low ceilinged, intimate, and right in the band’s faces.”

( For more tips on what to do in Scotland, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

  • CITY GUIDES
  • FOOD TOURISM
  • WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
  • DISTILLERIES

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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

James Smart

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

visit scotland food

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

Group of people walking along cliff edge looking over Edinburgh

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour:  The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

The Kylesku Bridge spanning Loch a' Chàirn Bhàin in the Scottish Highlands, which is a landmark on the North Coast 500 tourist driving route.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.

Planning tip:  Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.

Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

embers of the public enjoy their first drink in a beer garden at the Rosevale Tavern in Partick on July 06, 2020 in Glasgow, Scotland.

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.

Local tip:  Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland  (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.

Planning tip:  It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

Fishing boat in the harbour at Lybster on the east coast of Scotland.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of  St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

The stone ruins of Skara Brae on the coast of Mainland Orkney

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney  with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.

Planning tip:  Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

A group of black-and-white birds with colourful beaks stand together on a clifftop on a misty day

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.

Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip:  Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated November 2023

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Making valued connections

There’s just under a month to go before VisitScotland Connect 2024 gets underway.

Taking place 17-18 April, the event will welcome some of the world’s tour operators, travel advisors, and destination management companies to meet and do business with the Scottish tourism industry, at P&J Live in Aberdeen.

More than 220 trade-ready Scottish tourism businesses and attractions will connect with over 250 buyers, who plan inspirational Scotland trips for their clients. These represent 23 countries including those in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the UK domestic markets. 

There are more than 60 Scottish businesses joining us   for the first time, including:

  • Cameron House on Loch Lomond
  • Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere
  • Glen Moray Distillery
  • Grampian Transport Museum
  • Hamilton Park
  • Laphroaig Distillery
  • Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
  • Cruise Loch Linnhe

Many visitors to Scotland seek the reassurance and guidance offered by travel intermediaries to plan and book their holiday travels. VisitScotland Connect is an integral part of our support to enable Scottish businesses to grow their business through this route to promote and grow the nation's share of visitors that stay longer and spend more.

By taking part in VisitScotland Connect 2024, Scottish tourism businesses get the opportunity to engage with travel intermediaries in a workshop-style format, discussing new destinations and products to include in travel itineraries being sold globally in 2025 and 2026.

Last year’s event was the first time we ran a workshop-style event, focused on one-to-one meeting and networking opportunities. These offered a more targeted opportunity to connect product developers and contract managers with Scottish tourism businesses and suppliers. 

Overall feedback from the 2023 event revealed that both buyers and suppliers preferred the new format. 91% of Scottish businesses said they anticipated generating sales from attending VisitScotland Connect 2023 .

We're delighted to participate in VisitScotland Connect this year and eagerly anticipate connecting with our industry peers. VisitScotland Connect provides an excellent platform for us to showcase Marine & Lawn and share our vision for the future. Our collaboration with the travel trade in Scotland has played a pivotal role in our successful launch and continued growth, both within the country and beyond. Gina Clark, Director of Sales Scotland, Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts

In addition to the two-day event in Aberdeen, a specially curated programme of familiarisation trips will showcase the best of Scotland’s tourism offering across 20 regions.

These trips will highlight products with a strong emphasis on sustainability and an attractive sample of local culture in each. They allow travel trade representatives to experience the offering of a variety of different destinations in person across Scotland. 

Please note that only pre-registered delegates can attend and registration is now closed.

Demand for Scotland as a visitor destination remains strong and we are thrilled to be able to bring the Scottish tourism industry, travel agents and tour operators from across the world together again at the P&J Live in Aberdeen. This is a really important opportunity to meet in person and share details of products and experiences, as well as the brilliant offering we have here. Helping businesses to reach new markets and stimulating demand for Scotland is all part of our comprehensive marketing strategy which works year-round to bring visitors to Scotland. Vicki Miller, Director of Marketing and Digital at VisitScotland

Related links

Connecting scotland to the world, driving year-round visits to scotland, keeping travel front-of-mind during quieter months, intermediary marketing increasing seasonal spread.

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This booking system and any information appearing on this page relating to the availability of any accommodation is provided by third parties and not by VisitScotland. It is intended to provide real time availability information relating to accommodation which is also provided by third parties. You may use this booking system to place direct bookings with third party accommodation providers. Any booking you make will not be placed with VisitScotland and we will have no liability to you in respect of any booking. If you proceed to make a booking you will leave our Website and visit a website owned and operated by a third party. VisitScotland does not have any control over the content or availability of any external website. This booking system and any information appearing on this page is provided for your information and convenience only and is not intended to be an endorsement by VisitScotland of the content of such linked websites, the quality of any accommodation listed, or of the services of any third party.

Adventures in Featherland

Mary Craig, originally from East Lothian, and now living in Berwickshire, was trained at Edinburgh College of Art.

Her work uses gesso on paper or board with acrylic paint and inks, watercolours, coloured pencils, charcoal and pastels.

Alongside Mary, Charlotte Mellis, owner of the gallery, is showing a selection of her work.

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

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  4. A comprehensive guide to Scottish food

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  5. Best 13 Scottish Foods (& Scotland's Cuisine History)

    visit scotland food

  6. 25 Traditional Scottish Food Snacks and Drink (Scotland)

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COMMENTS

  1. 11 Traditional Scottish Food Dishes to Try

    Haggis, neeps and tatties. When you think of Scottish food, haggis always comes to mind. One of our most traditional and famous dishes is haggis, neeps and tatties, (turnips and potatoes). A delicious combination of meat, oatmeal, onions, salt and spices, haggis is really flavoursome. Places to try haggis: Arcade Haggis & Whisky House, Edinburgh.

  2. Scottish Food & Drink

    Some local produce you can find only in Scotland, such as Scotch beef, Scottish wild salmon, traditional Ayrshire Dunlop cheese, Arbroath Smokies, Scottish-farmed salmon, Scotch Lamb, Shetland lamb, Orkney beef, Orkney lamb, and Orkney Scottish island cheddar, to name a few. 10 Food & Drink Award Winners. Michelin-Star Restaurants in Scotland.

  3. 9 Top Scottish Food Experiences

    Donaldsons of Orkney - have won awards for their delicious hot smoked salmon. The Fish People in Glasgow - have an incredible selection of fresh Scottish fish, lobster, mussels and crab and offer everything from curated fish boxes for delivery to specially prepared deli food. Loch Fyne Oyster Ltd - located on the banks of Loch Fyne ...

  4. Scottish Food and Drink

    Traditional food & drink. Scotland's national dish is haggis, a savoury meat pudding, and it's traditionally accompanied by mashed potatoes, turnips (known as 'neeps') and a whisky sauce. Which brings us to the national drink - whisky. Over 100 distilleries in Scotland produce this amber-hued liquid, many of which can be explored on a ...

  5. 24 Must-Try Scottish Food & Dishes

    Haggis. Our first traditional Scottish dish is also the national dish of Scotland! Haggis is the iconic national dish that you've likely heard about at one point. It is made from animal innards, usually sheep, which are mixed with fresh onions, oatmeal, seasonings, beef suet, and dried herbs.

  6. 20 foods to try when you visit Scotland

    Cullen skink. A creamy and delicious Scottish soup, cullen skink combines smoked salmon, onions and potatoes. Often served as a restaurant starter, it's the perfect dish to warm you from the inside should our somewhat unpredictable weather decide to take a turn for the worse.

  7. The 15 Best Scottish Foods: What & Where to Eat and Drink in Scotland

    Where to Eat Cullen Skink in Scotland. Cullen skink originated in (and is named for) the village of Cullen, so there's no doubt that this is the best place in Scotland to find the most authentic Cullen skink. The village of Cullen is located on the coast in Moray, in northeast Scotland. 15. Try a Deep-Fried Mars Bar.

  8. What to eat and drink in Scotland

    At B&Bs and hotels, you're more likely to encounter the 'full Scottish' breakfast - fruit juice and cereal, toast and jam, a pot of coffee or tea, and a fry-up consisting of any or all of the following: bacon, sausage, black pudding (a type of sausage made with oatmeal, onion and pig's blood), grilled tomato, mushrooms, potato scones and ...

  9. 9 Unique Dishes You Must Try When You Visit Scotland

    Photo credit: Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey 1. Haggis. Haggis is undoubtedly the most famous Scottish food item, maybe after whisky — see below — and it is the national dish of Scotland. Now, you have got to be brave: Haggis is made from minced sheep's lung, heart, and liver mixed with chopped beef or lamb, oats, suet, and numerous spices, such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and coriander.

  10. What's the Best Food in Scotland? 26 Must Try Dishes & Drinks

    2. Scones in Scotland. Scones are a Scotland food classic and an easy Scottish breakfast to enjoy. They are thought to have been created in Scotland in the early 1500's, and can now be found throughout the U.K. The fluffy biscuits taste great with assorted jams and butter.

  11. Scottish Foods to Try

    Here in Scotland, we proudly produce some of the finest quality meats like beef, lamb and venison. Plus, with over 10,000 miles of coastline, there are also scallops, langoustines, salmon and plenty of other seafood to boot. Read on as we take a deep dive into some of the most traditional foods of Scotland.

  12. Food in Scotland

    7. Steak & Ale Pie. Great Food in Scotland to eat at the Pub - Steak and Ale Pie. A favourite dish across the UK, and a popular pub classic food in Scotland. Large chunks of beef are stewed with fresh herbs and ale to create a lovely filling for the yummy steak and ale pie.

  13. Scotland's Seasonal Food Calendar

    October is a time for pumpkins and parsnips, warming soups and hearty stews. You'll also find an array of seafood on the menu, with lobster, razor clams, squid, monkfish and more all at their best. Pumpkins - with Halloween rearing its spooky head on 31 October, this is the perfect month to pick up a pumpkin.

  14. A Foodie's Road Trip on Scotland's West Coast

    Scotland's west coast offers jaw-dropping scenery and some of the very best Scottish food experiences, and this is my guide to making the most of this foodie coastline. The incredible seafood bars and Michelin-recommended restaurants feature, of course, but so do smaller cafes that serve up a hearty slice of cake and a creamy cappuccino.

  15. 20 Traditional Scottish Food In Scotland

    This dish is a bounty of breakfast foods that will start you out right. This show-stopping sampler varies across Scotland, but some parts are pretty standard. A full Scottish breakfast typically includes fried tomatoes, baked beans, mushrooms, eggs, sausage patties, sausage links, bacon, and black pudding or haggis.

  16. 25 Scotland Travel Tips To Know BEFORE You Go

    Drink Tap Water: Tap water in Scotland is perfectly fine to drink, so it is best not to waste money or plastic on one-time-use water bottles. Get yourself a travel water bottle and keep refilling it! Travel During the Offseason: I think traveling in Scotland, particularly shrines, in the offseason.

  17. Food and Drink

    Renowned for the incredible quality of our food and drink, Scotland is a destination where your clients can enjoy the freshest seafood and best grass-fed meat, a wealth of award-winning whisky and gin, to the infamous haggis and much, much more! ... events and webinar invites, all from VisitScotland and relevant to your market. By signing up ...

  18. A 10 Day Scotland Itinerary For Food And Drink Lovers

    The Scotland trips we recommend below push the envelope of how many stops you can make within 10 days. I prefer a 10-day itinerary to find 3 or 4 places to visit, max, and make the most of those stops. Within 10 days, I recommend visiting both Glasgow and Edinburgh as well as one or two areas outside of the big cities.

  19. Restaurants & Places to Eat in Scotland

    Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals. Choose from a wide range of restaurant listings across Scotland to find the perfect place to eat or drink, from Michelin-star dining to local Scottish seafood.

  20. Scotland Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Sticky toffee pudding is a favorite dessert, and of course, you can't visit Scotland without sampling some scotch. Expect to pay around 10-12 GBP for a basic meal (like a Scottish breakfast). For pub food like a burger or fish and chips, prices are usually between 12-20 GBP for a meal.

  21. Visiting Scotland? Here's what the locals love

    Scotland's dramatic scenery is a big draw for photographers. "I would recommend a light mirrorless camera for all the walking and hiking you will be doing, with rain covers, a 24-70mm lens, a ...

  22. The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

    Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond - immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs - comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.. At the heart of Scotland's first national park, the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell ...

  23. Making valued connections

    There's just under a month to go before VisitScotland Connect 2024 gets underway. Taking place 17-18 April, the event will welcome some of the world's tour operators, travel advisors, and destination management companies to meet and do business with the Scottish tourism industry, at P&J Live in Aberdeen.

  24. Frequently Asked Questions

    WHAT KIND OF FOOD WILL I FIND IN SCOTLAND? A huge range - as well as all our excellent traditional dishes (which we'll talk about a little later) and 10 Michelin star restaurants, Scotland is a very cosmopolitan country and you'll find restaurants specialising in food from many different cultures. Eating local is very important in Scotland and you'll find lots of restaurants that proudly serve ...

  25. VisitScotland

    Get a taste for Scotland and discover the country's mouth-watering food and drink. Pick of the month. Toggle caption information . ... 11 Reasons Why You Should Visit Scotland In 2024. Discover reasons why you should visit Scotland in 2024. Including Arbroath Abbey, Caithness and Sutherland, Perth Museum and more! ...

  26. Adventures in Featherland, Isle of Mull

    Mary Craig, originally from East Lothian, and now living in Berwickshire, was trained at Edinburgh College of Art. Her work uses gesso on paper or board with acrylic paint and inks, watercolours, coloured pencils, charcoal and pastels.