Most people view the summer as a time to relax and take a break from work, but for many Scots, the summer is the time to get out and explore all that their country has to offer. With so many outdoor activities and events happening throughout the country, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can visit some of Scotland’s famous landmarks, go hiking or biking in the countryside, or attend one of the many music or arts festivals happening this summer. So if you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to spend your summer holiday, Scotland is definitely the place to be!
What to Do in Scotland During The Summer
Scotland is a country that has a lot of natural beauty, but there’s much more to it than that. There’s also a rich culture that’s full of intellect and artistic expression. If you’re thinking about going to Scotland, you might be on the fence about what to do. Thankfully, there are plenty of things to do, so you really can’t go wrong! Here are just a few ideas:
- Visit Edinburgh Castle – This iconic landmark is a must-see for any visitor to Scotland. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the castle offers stunning views of the cityscape and surrounding countryside.
- Hike in the Highlands – The Scottish Highlands are a beautiful and rugged part of the country, perfect for a day of hiking or mountain biking. There are plenty of trails to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your skill level and interests.
- Attend a Music Festival – Scotland is home to some of the world’s most renowned music festivals, including Wickerman and Celtic Connections. With events happening all summer long, there’s sure to be one that fits your taste.
- See a Play or Musical – If you’re looking for something a bit more cultural, why not check out a play or musical performance at one of Scotland’s many theatres? There’s sure to be something that piques your interest.
The Best Places to Visit in Scotland
When it comes to choosing the best places to visit in Scotland, there’s no shortage of options. From the buzzing city of Edinburgh to the rugged beauty of the Highlands, there’s something for everyone. Here are just a few of our favourite spots:
- Edinburgh – This vibrant city is a must-see for any visitor to Scotland. With its famous castle, lively pubs and charming streets, Edinburgh is sure to captivate you.
- Glencoe – This stunning glen is located in the Scottish Highlands and is famed for its dramatic scenery. Visitors can explore the area by hiking or biking, or take a cruise on Loch Leven.
- Isle of Skye – This picturesque island is a popular destination for tourists due to its dramatic landscapes and wealth of outdoor activities. Whether you’re into hiking, biking or kayaking, the Isle of Skye has something for you.
- Stirling Castle – This impressive castle is one of Scotland’s most popular tourist destinations. Located atop a hill in the town of Stirling, the castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
How to get around Scotland
If you’re travelling to Scotland for the first time and want to explore a lot of the country, it can be difficult to get around. Fortunately, there are several transportation options to get you where you need to go. One of the most popular is the Scotland Rail Pass, which offers unlimited travel on much of the rail network throughout Scotland. This pass is only available to those with a passport that shows they live in the UK, Ireland or the Republic of Ireland. Those with an EU passport can get a BritRail pass and a BritRail Scotland Pass. If you’re travelling within Edinburgh, the city’s excellent bus system will get you where you need to go. There are also several hop-on, hop-off bus tours that offer a convenient way to see all the major sights in Edinburgh.
Should you be flying to the capital and plan on travelling outside of Edinburgh, your best bet is to hire a car at Edinburgh Airport upon landing. The roads in Scotland are great for driving on and are relatively easy to navigate because the road signs are clear, and the roads are well-maintained. Scotland’s cities are fun to visit, and there’s plenty to see and do in the countryside. If you’re driving you should keep an eye out for sheep because they are everywhere, and they sometimes want to cross the road!
It’s always good to find out the difference between the various modes of transport that are available at your destination (For example, you can also ship a car to Scotland). By knowing what your options are before you arrive, you can make an informed decision on the best way to get around.
What to pack for a trip to Scotland
When packing for a trip to Scotland, it’s important to keep in mind the climate and what activities you’ll be participating in. If you’re visiting during the summer, it’s likely that you’ll experience some warm weather, so pack light clothes that will keep you cool. If you’re planning on doing any hiking or outdoor activities, make sure to bring along sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent. In the winter, it’s important to pack warm clothes as temperatures can drop quite low. Some essentials to pack regardless of the season include a raincoat, a good pair of shoes and sunglasses.
Another thing to keep in mind when packing for Scotland is that the country is quite rural, so there aren’t many places to buy things once you’re there. It’s therefore a good idea to bring along your own toiletries, including shampoo, soap and toothpaste, as well as any medications you might need. You’ll also want to bring along a power adapter if your devices require one; Scotland uses the same type of plug as England.
Finally, don’t forget to pack your camera! Scotland is a beautiful country with plenty of photo opportunities. With its rolling hills, dramatic coastlines and charming towns and villages, you’ll want to make sure you have your camera ready to capture all the best moments of your trip.
Scottish Food and Drink
Scotland is known for its traditional cuisine, which has been heavily influenced by the country’s rural landscape and by its close ties with England and France. Some of the most popular Scottish dishes include haggis, black pudding, whisky and shortbread.
- Haggis – A dish made from sheep heart, liver and lungs, which is minced and mixed with onions, porridge, salt and spices. It is then traditionally cooked in the animal’s stomach casing, although nowadays, it is also often cooked in a casing made from sheep intestine. Haggis is considered to be Scotland’s national dish and is often served at special occasions such as Burns Night (a celebration of the poet Robert Burns).
- Black Pudding – A type of sausage made from pork blood and oats. It is usually served fried or grilled and is a popular breakfast food in Scotland. Black pudding is an iconic part of Scottish and British culture. You can find it in most supermarkets or local butchers. The most popular way to eat it is to fry it and eat it with your breakfast. However, it is also a delicious part of many other meals. It’s just as good grilled or baked. It is also great in a sandwich or served with stuffing.
- Whisky – A type of liquor that is produced in Scotland. It is made from barley, water and yeast, and is typically aged in oak casks for at least three years. Whisky is one of Scotland’s most famous exports and is enjoyed worldwide. Whisky can be an acquired taste, and many people find that it’s hard to get used to. Some people like to drink it as it is, while others add other ingredients to it to make cocktails and other drinks. As with any alcohol, drinking too much of it can have negative effects and can cause you to ruin the following day(s) of your trip, so it’s best to drink in moderation and know your limit.
- Shortbread – A type of biscuit that is popular in Scotland. It is made from flour, sugar, butter and cornstarch, and has a crumbly texture. Shortbread is a popular part of Scottish cuisine that is available throughout the year. It is usually eaten as a dessert and is perfect for a light snack when you’re hungry but not in the mood for something rich or heavy.
If you’re travelling around Scotland for a couple of weeks, it’s important to be able to find food that suits your tastes. One of the best ways to discover what it’s like to live in the country is to try some local food. It is not only delicious, but it also gives you a rich cultural experience. Scottish food is also full of flavour due to the high quality, sustainable products used to make it.
We Hope This Helped…
Thank you for reading our guide on how to make the most of your summer trip to Scotland. We hope that you found this information helpful and that it has inspired you to visit this beautiful country during its busiest season. There are so many amazing things to see and do in Scotland, from its stunning landscapes and historical landmarks. We wish you a wonderful journey and look forward to hearing about your experiences!
