From Traditions to lifestyle, Scotland has a unique approach to the rest of Britain. The nation boasts aww inspiring landscapes, glistening beaches, serene islands, magnificent mountains and stunning nightlife apart from a lot of fun things to do in Scotland. All those who have been preparing an itinerary for a decent yet fun vacation must consider Scotland. A country that has Unicorn as its national animal definitely adds a different charm to its existence. Unicorns have a concrete fan base worldwide, although Scotland has expressed an extraordinary fondness for the mystical character. Unicorns are a symbol of grace and purity, which contributes significantly, to transforming them into a national symbol.
Most Exciting Things To Do in Scotland
Yet another fun fact that is associated with the country are the footprints of dinosaurs from more that 160 million years ago. The country boasts oldest gold links, lavish restaurants and adventure sports that would give you an adrenaline rush. Let's check out the fun discoveries in Scotland if you have switched on the vacay mode to UK.
Enjoy Scotland as ‘A Home of Golf’
Golf has been an integral part of Scotland, as the country is associated with the sport for more than 600 years. If you are someone, who has a craze for learning or playing golf, then Scotland has got you covered with more than 550 Golf courses. For Golfers, Scotland is a dream destination. Here are a few most popular Golf courses in Scotland that are generally seen, in the bucket lists of those who have an eye for the sport.
St Andrews
Golf has ancient links with Scotland, and as soon as the thought of the sport strikes, FIFE comes all over the mind. St Andrews and the old course have been nurturing golf since the 15th century thus, it is affectionately named as the ‘Cradle of the game’. The old golf course is like heritage and a well-preserved monument to the architects of the course. There is a shire around St Andrews called the kingdom of Fife and has about 60 golf clubs. Visitors can also explore the ancient cathedrals and learn about the traditions and history while enjoying adventurous things to do in Scotland.
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Southern Scotland
Located at a distance of approximately 40 minutes on the east of Edinburgh, the shire of East Lothian houses amazing craze for golf. The company of Edinburgh golfers came into association and formed the Muirfield Golf Club in 1744. The club later hosted 16 open championships.
Other Golf links on east coast of Southern Scotland
- North Berwick
- Gullane
- Kilspindie
- Longniddry
- Dunbar
- The Glen Golf Club
The west coast too doesn’t disappoint the golfers, offering
- Royal Troon
- Prestwick
- Turnberry.
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Northern Scotland 'The Highlands'
If you are searching for things to do in Scotland, don't forget to visit Inverness in Scotland, then make sure to explore the Highlands and Royal Dornoch. North East Scotland, also referred to as Aberdeenshire, is sometimes overlooked irrespective of being a Scottish golf course but, Trump International turned out to be a charm in blowing new life into the area. Not to forget, Cruden Bay & Royal Aberdeen Golf Clubs, are charted as one of the best golf courses in Scotland. Besides, Fraserburgh, Peterhead and Murcar Golf Clubs are also among the popular ones.
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Perthshire & Kinross
Located in the middle of Scotland, Perthshire & Kinross is not inclusive of golf links but, the presence of Pitlochry, Crieff and Blairgowrie Golf Club keeps the golf enthusiast ecstatic. One of the most undiscussed features apart from the golf courses is that the places offer many things to do and see in Scotland including beaches, tranquility and pleasant sceneries.
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Explore Relishing Culinary Experience
Scotland is a home for delectable Scottish salmon, hand-dived scallops, organic beef and vegetables. The country showcases a memorable culinary jaunt besides impressive sceneries, magnificent castles and artistic architecture that extend beyond imagination. Throughout the United Kingdom, Scotland has some of the best restaurants.
When it comes to good restaurant in Scotland, there is a wide range of options for both expensive and cheap eateries in Scotland. These options including Bars, cafés, tearooms, and outlets with takeaway services. Here is a list of amazing restaurants.
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Restaurant Martin Wishart
Classical French techniques used in the restaurant amalgamates modern European cuisines with the finest Scottish ingredients. The restaurant has an extensive menu and includes exotic dishes such as succulent pastas and savory deserts. While you are in Scotland don’t miss out the specialty and bestseller Oyster Remoulade and Ricotta Gnocchi that will set a bar to your dining experience.
Address: 54 Shore, Edinburgh EH6 6RA, United Kingdom.
Timings: Tuesdays to Saturdays: 12 – 1:30 PM, 7 – 9 PM
Specialty: Oyster Remoulade and Ricotta Gnocchi.
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Gautam’s
This is an Indian restaurant in Scotland that serves homelike north Indian dishes along with yummy Nepalese and other Asian delicacies. Scotland has many Indian restaurants and, Gautam's is among the most famous eating outlets. You can find lip-smacking Rogan josh, Butter chicken, Dal Makhani and dumplings that your taste buds will never forget. The restaurant serves exotic vegetarian food with a touch of authentic touch. In their non-vegetarian course, Curry and prawns are a must-try.
Address: 3A St. Andrews Square EH2 2BD, Scotland, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Thursday & Sunday: 4 PM – 10:30 PM; Friday and Saturday 4 PM – 11 PM
Specialty: Curry and King Prawns.
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Mimi’s Bakehouse
Mimi is a bakery renowned for baked desserts, it has won many awards for is piping hot baked delicacies served straight from the oven. The enticing interiors of the outlet would always persuade to stay few more minutes. According to the frequent visitors, the place is perfect for an evening tea and light snacking amidst the hectic day. The soothing ambience is extremely pleasant and instantly relaxes the mood.
Address: 63 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RA, Scotland, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Thursday 9 AM – 5 PM ; Friday to Sunday 9 AM – 6 PM
Specialty: Cheesecake, Pancake Stack, and Scones.
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Ondine
Scotland is famous for the wide variety of food, that it offers to travellers. Ondine is one such restaurant that is charted, as a must-visit place in Scotland, for its range of seafood. It is known for serving the freshest fishes caught by the local fishermen. The exotically prepared dishes, modern interiors and oysters are the reason why Ondine is among the list of best places to eat in Scotland.
Address: 2 George IV Bridge, Old Town, Edinburgh EH1 1AD, Scotland, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Saturday 12 PM – 2: 30 PM, 5:30 PM – 10 PM
Specialty: Fish soup and Wine.
Ubiquitous Chip
The name of the restaurant perfectly suits the ambience of the outlet. The county themed eatery is influenced by the traditions and folklore of the country. It is widely known for its regional and authentic Scottish dishes. There are many dishes worth trying in the restaurant but, while you are there, you must try guinea fowl breast and monkfish steak, provided you are a non-vegetarian.
Yet another most loved dish is the Angus beef. If you are searching for fun things to do in Scotland, here are many options explore different cuisines. Irrespective of your origin, if you are someone who craves lip-smacking meat, this place has all the capability to satiate your taste buds.
Address: 12 Ashton Lane, Glasgow, G12 8SJ, Scotland, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 1 AM
Specialty: Scallops, Rump Steak, and Steak Au Poivre.
Crabshakk
Looking for places to go on a dinner with family and friends well, Crabshakk could be that place. Popular for British cuisines and succulent seafood, this restaurant is a hub for a wide range of crabs, oysters, fishes etc. You can also try their bestseller, brown crabs, for out of the world experience.
Address: 1114 Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8TD, Scotland, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday 12 PM – 12 PM
Specialty: Crab Cake, Fish & Chips, Oysters, Fries, and Club Sandwich
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Visit Beaches In Scotland
Scotland, has a lot to offer to the expatriates, locals and excursionists. Exploring the Scottish beaches is one of the most lavish things to do in the United Kingdom. Stroll through the glistening sand, with sea waves kissing your feet, seabirds calling your name and wind trying to give you the taste of its salt. An ambience so serene and the only sound audible is the music of the waves crashing on the seashore. Here are a few of the best beaches that one should definitely visit on their trip to the country.
Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris
Irrespective of the season and time, one thing constant is the cerulean water and the sky, competing with each other. Both are deeper than the other combine to create surreal scenery. The incredibly beautiful beach Luskentyre Sands has been voted as the finest beach of Scotland. Besides being one of the finest beach, it has also won an award for being one of the largest and most stunning beaches in the country. The best way through which travelers can explore these beaches is by cycling through the Hebridean cycling route.
Tolsta Beach, Isle of Lewis
The white sandy beach is quite popular with sea surfers and adventurers who love water sports. Located at the outer Hebrides, the sea and its ambience is supremely refreshing. Tolsta is a village close to Lewis, the main town of Stornoway. The Tolsta beach is an ideal destination for couples in Scotland. Not many know that at the end of Tolsta's sandy beach there are five caves, popularly known as the “caves of life”, and can only be visited during low tides.
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Aberdeen Beach
This is one of the busiest beaches in the city, with a coastline stretching to 3km. Another rare thing to do in Scotland is spotting adorable dolphins and enjoying intrepid water sports. Walking along the esplanade towards the Fittie, there is a fishing village that incorporates quirky cottages build by the local labourers. For its clean and sustainable condition, Aberdeen Beach was a winner of the Scotland beach award in 2021. A source of fresh seafood this is one of the beaches in United kingdom that offers amazing culinary experience as well. The coastline has Moon Fish café that is a very popular spot among visitors and loclites.
Rockcliffe Beach
Rockcliffe a stunning Scottish beach astonishes the visitors with its beauty. It is perfect for morning and evening strolls along the woods on the coastal line. There are many places to visit in Europe for a tranquil sojourn and the villages of Kippford and Rockcliffe are two of them. are not too far from the beach and have a very high optimism with tempting beauty that please the eyes with cute houses, lively plants of various colours and livestock. It is an ideal destination for picnics with family or day out in Scotland with loved ones. Rockcliffe also has a bird sanctuary, named Rough Island which is in proximity of walking distance. The villages also have ancient citadel from the 5th century.
Drown In The Nightlife In Scotland
Plenty of clubs and casinos makes Scotland known for its happening nightlife, and undeniably it is the chief draw for the excursionists. Scotland looks mesmerizing in Springs, which makes it a Perfect destination to visit in November. Visitors seeking an adventurous night after a hectic day can enjoy great night outs in the town. Every day a wide range of events, music fests etc. contribute to the charm of nightlife in Scotland. Drawing big crowds here are a few of the clubs that offer a lit ambience required to party throughout the night.
The Last Drop
A traditional and trendy city club, the last drop is one of the places that offer plenty of things to do in Scotland during night. Located in the popular Grassmarket of Edinburgh, the club offers an excellent and safe ambience for partying late at night. The club has stunning archways made of bricks and wood. Apart from the cool atmosphere, the food served at the club adds to the grandeur of the lounge. If you are planning to visit, don’t forget to taste fajitas which is one of their bestsellers. They have a wide collection of drinks at an affordable price.
Location: 74-78 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
Timings: 11 am to 12 am
The Garage
Many people, who are exploring the night out destinations in United Kingdom, generally end up searching for the best clubs. 'The Garage' is where the search stops, given the energetic and happening pub culture that it offers. With a wide range of music genres from rock, hip hop to jazz etc, everyone’s taste is catered here. The club has 5 rooms that play different music and visitor can choose as per their taste. Although the house Dj is one thing that can never be missed for an unforgettable night at the club.
Location: Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, Scotland
Timings: 11 pm to 4 am
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
If you are a party animal, then there is no chance that you have not heard of Whiski Bar and restaurant. An internationally renowned restaurant and bar with a collection of more than 300 malts whiskeys. Located in the centre of the Royal mill in Edinburgh, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is one of the most visited bars in Scotland.
Location: 119 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SG, United Kingdom
Timings: 10 am to 1 am
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The Malt Room
If you are one of the alcohol connoisseurs, then The Malt Room is the perfect place where you can explore unique spirits ranging from gins, vodkas, tequilas along with a wide selection of hand-crafted beers. Located in the middle of the Inverness city, the bar attracts a large footfall. Being the first whiskey bar in Inverness Scotland, 'The Malt' room is one of the few places that offer a very traditional vibe to the visitors.
Location: Inverness IV1 1EH, 34 Church of St
Timings: 10 pm to 1 am
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Adventurous Water Sports In Scotland
Water sports have been an integral part of beach fun during summers. The adventurous souls find solace in Scotland and involve in the summer's challenges with exhilarating adventure water sports in Scotland. Perhaps if you are seeking the best watersports in the world, then you must head towards the UK. Here is a list of few fun things to do in Scotland that can anchor you for life.
Kitesurfing
Kiteboarding also knows as kitesurfing, is an extreme water sport enjoyed by many adventure seekers. It allows giant kites to float on various surfaces such as water, snow and land by, the speed of the wind. The sport single-handedly has the essence of paragliding, surfing, windsurfing, skateboarding, snowboarding and wakeboarding. It is a thrilling sport that lets the adventurer fly. If you are planning to try the sport, you can learn the basics at Troon in Ayrshire with one-to-one lessons. The venturesome adventures make Scotland a perfect European honeymoon destination.
Wakeboarding
Summer is the perfect time for opting for water sport adventures in Scotland, and wakeboarding's one such sport that is popular with the locals, as well as the tourists. The sport is taken along the water surface tied behind a swift speed boat. Foxlake Adventures in Dunbar offer equipments and proper training to try your prowess at it.
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Windsurfing
The sport is a perfect combination of sailing & surfing and it is popular since the later 19th century. In Scotland, south of Loch Lomond Island is one of the best places for Windsurfing, given it allows the wind to blow more freely than the northern parts which is hindered by the mountains. For learning the sport, visitors can head to some of the top freestyle professionals. It is recommended to practice the sport where the wind is steady.
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Canoeing & kayaking
There are many sports in Scotland to device mastery in paddlings, such as canoeing or kayaking. Visitors who desire to explore the waves and can either live the moment in swift kayaks or take control over their speed in an open canoe. It depends on subjective preference.
Standup Paddle Boarding
The ingenious sport originated in Hawaii, is one of the trendiest adventure sports in Scotland. Paddleboarders stand on boards and flat on the water and hurl themselves using a paddle. The adventurers get to enjoy the waves and relish the views atop the swaying board. Many places in Scotland provide training in stand up paddleboarding.
Not that you know the most happening things to do in Scotland, you can confidently plan your vacation to the country. The United Kingdom has a plethora of options that can make your trip exciting. All you need to do is, set your priorities, and plan everything accordingly to not miss out on anything. The beauty and charisma of Scotland would leave you in awe! Being in Scotland can give a paradisiac experience that might never fade away from your memories. Plan a vacation soon for a lifetime experience.
Things To Do In Scotland - FAQs
The European flights connect to almost the entire world. People from different parts of the world generally enter Scotland via London, Amsterdam, Paris or Frankfurt airports. Visitors can enter Scotland through British Airways, Eastern Airways, Flybe, Easyjet and Virgin Atlantic.
Nightlife in Scotland is very happening. There are plenty of clubs and pubs to party in, that gives a perfect end to a hectic day.
Yes, as compared to other countries, Scotland is expensive.
Scotland is charted among the most romantic countries worldwide. Couples can relish their romantic moments and enjoy adventurous sports as well. There are various things to do such as Go-karting, tracking, snowboarding and explore Glasgow.
Scotland serves lip-smacking and authentic dishes. But one should not miss their Haggis, Scottish salmon, neeps and tatties.
There are various family restaurants in Scotland, a few of them are Ondine, Ubiquitous Chip. For a vegetarian restaurant, Gautam’s is one of the most decent choices.
The best time to visit Scotland is March to May and September to November.
The Last drop lounge is located in the 74-78 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland.
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