Introducing Scotland
As an old Scots saying has it, ‘guid gear comes in sma’ bouk’ (good things come in small packages). And despite its small size, Scotland certainly has many treasures crammed into its compact territory. There’s something for all tastes. For the history buff, few cities compare with Edinburgh and Glasgow; for the hungry, try haggis if you must but don’t miss the Aberdeen Angus beef or smoked salmon from Dumfries & Galloway or, for the thirsty, the peerless malt whiskies of the Isle of Islay or Oban await. There is wild mountain scenery of the Highlands & Northern Islands and cold, sparkling seas washing against the Outer Hebrides. Wildlife watchers will find otters, eagles, whales and dolphins, while hill walkers have almost 300 Munros to bag.
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There’s turbulent history and fascinating genealogy, castles and country pubs, canoeing and caber-tossing, golfing and fishing and all-round good craic (lively conversation).
Although an integral part of Great Britain since 1707, Scotland has maintained a separate and distinct identity throughout the last 300 years. The return of a devolved Scottish parliament to Edinburgh in 1999 marked a growing confidence and sense of pride in the nation’s achievements.
Ready to go?
These tours & activities make it easy:
- Hike, raft and find time for a wee dram on a Highland adventure
- Experience the Scottish highlands at handlebar level
- Spend two days exploring Loch Ness and Inverness
- Soak up the spirit of Speyside on a whisky tour
Last updated: Jan 17, 2013
Tips & articles
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The world’s best sunrises
17 April 2013
Kicking back on a beach, cold beer in hand while watching the sun go down is one of travel’s finest...
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Scotland
Things to do
- All things to do (1,643)
- Activities (282)
- Entertainment (265)
- Restaurants (431)
- Shopping (156)
- Sights (487)
- Tours (22)
Make it happen
Our Top Picks For Scotland
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1 Outer Hebrides
Wild and remote islands with beautiful, deserted beaches, abundant bird life, and great walking, cycling and sea-kayaking
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2 Edinburgh
One of Europe's most beautiful cities, the Scottish capital is at its loveliest during the festival season in August
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3 Isle of Arran
Scotland in miniature - good mountain scenery, great hiking and biking, decent beaches and welcoming pubs
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4 Isle of Mull
Rugged coastal scenery, picturesque villages, gorgeous white-sand beaches and superb wildlife-watching
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5 Glasgow
Scotland's biggest city, famous for Victorian architecture, top shopping, great restaurants and lively pubs and clubs
Fast Facts about Scotland
- First Minister
Alex Salmond (Scottish National Party)
- GDP (per head)
GDP (per head) : £16, 332 (2004)
- Value of haggis sold for Burns Night
£1.2 million
- Unemployment
4.8% (2007)
- Amount of whisky exported annually
1 billion bottles
- Number of seats in Scottish parliament
129
- Area
78, 722 sq km
- Inflation
2.5% (2007)
- Population
5.1 million
- Number of times Scotland has won the football World Cup
0