Scotland

Scotland has astonishing variety, even within a small area. North Sea to Irish Sea, Highlands to Lowlands, the landscapes of Scotland - lush woodlands, windswept moors, lochs a s deep a sthe imagination - will take your breath away.
This is a country with an exceptional history of fiercely proud warriors, and a unique cultural identity that sets it apart from the rest of Great Britain.
Discover the true nature of the wonderfully warm Scots in the ancient rift valleys of the Great Glens, the granite shoulder of the Grampians, around the tranquil waters of the lochs, and amid the picturesque beauty of the Scottish Isles.
History & Culture

Scottish Islands

Natural Wonders

Must-do Experiences

Points of Interest
Generally, Australians travelling to the UK as tourists for a period of up to six months do not require a visa. However, it is ultimately the prerogative of the UK authorities to determine who is granted entry. Any individual they believe is entering the UK for any non-tourist purpose and does not hold the corresponding visa, may be refused entry. Australians planning to do paid or unpaid work, to volunteer or get married in the UK are required to obtain a visa before they depart Australia. For more information visit - www.smartraveller.gov.au.
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Best Time to Visit
Activity | Time |
---|---|
See a spectacular show of bagpipes, drums and dancers | Edinburgh Military Tattoo held in August |
Watch some highland jigs and caber tossing | Highland Games around Scotland in August & September |
Listen to some smooth tunes | Glasgow Jazz Festival held in June |
See some impressive fireworks and join a street party | Hogmanay in Edinburgh, 30-31 December |
Enjoy a whisky by the fire | The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, in Dufftown in May |
Getting Around
Scotland offers good transport options, with most of the country well-connected by roads and well-covered by rail services.
Britrail have a range of passes to choose from: the Central Scotland and Scottish Highlands passes feature just these areas, or the Spirit of Scotland covers the whole country. You can also buy a Britrail pass that covers the whole of England and Scotland. These are very easy to use - pick your class of travel, pick your validity, and you're off. You don't always have to pre-book seats, but it is a good idea to do so if you're travelling over peak season.
Car hire is another great way to get around and Scotland's road numbering system makes it easy to navigate, and handy motorway signs like "The North" let you know you're heading in the right direction. It's worthy to note that most lead-in hire cars are manual in Europe, you'll need to pay for an upgrade if you want to hire an automatic.
Dining
Food in Scotland is steeped in history, and a rich story lies behind many traditional dishes. From cakes and biscuits to dense traditional fare, the Scottish culinary scene is a lively place to take your taste buds on an adventure.
Once the food of peasants, haggis and black pudding have made a big comeback in Scottish restaurants. Smoked fish is the national specialty, and restaurants everywhere are into the seasonal movement. Look for Angus beef, venison and rabbit in winter and crab, halibut and trout from spring to autumn.
Shopping
Edinburgh is popular for crystal and clusters of antique shops, especially on St Stephen and Dundas streets. Princes Street is where you'll find the chain stores, like Debenhams, Marks & Spencer and Zara, and at Christmas, the Princes Street Gardens host the Traditional German Christmas Market. Multrees Walk is home to a range of designer labels - think Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry and Marc Jacobs.
Glasgow claims to the best shopping in Britain outside of London's Oxford Street, and Buchanan Street is the best place to start. Buchanan Galleries and Princes Square shopping centres house designer brands and chain stores.
Aberdeen and the north-east are good for malt whisky. Head to the islands of Skye and Arran for knitwear, tartan blankets and Celtic silver.
If you are planning to grab some British bargains, you can claim your VAT back at the airport when you leave - visit the VAT Refunds Website for more info.
What to Pack
Although not a land of extremes, it is always hard to predict the exact weather for your trip. If you are travelling in the summer months, pack the shorts and summer dresses, but make sure you include jeans and a jumper for those cooler nights, and if you are travelling in winter, be sure to pack gloves, scarf and a beanie. Spring and autumn are variable and you are probably best to pack for all seasons!
With so much culture, history and scenery to immerse yourself into in Scotland, you'll be spolit for choice on what to do next - check out some of our favourites below.