Scotland - A taste of the Nordic Essences

Few countries can boast a traditional culture as distinctive as Scotland. From haggis and whiskey to men in kilts playing the bagpipes, this proud country’s local customs are recognised throughout the world. Scotland is a land of hilltop castles, formidable fortresses, and mist-cloaked glens. With some of Western Europe’s largest areas of wilderness in their backyard, the Scots are blessed with a host of outdoor pursuits including hiking and mountain-biking in the rugged terrain of the Northern Highlands, whale and dolphin watching off the coast of Mull or sea-kayaking among the seal-haunted isles of the Outer Hebrides. With all this wilderness on offer alongside some of Britain’s most fascinating cities, it is no wonder that the Scots are so fiercely passionate about their remarkable country and its impressive heritage.

Currency 

Local currency: British Pound 
Symbol: £ 
ISO code: GBP 
Subunit: Pence 
Banknotes: £5, £10, £20, £50 
Coins: 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, £2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 
Weekends: Varies 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: British Airways, EasyJet 
International Airports: Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport, Manchester Airport 
Domestic Airports: Birmingham Airport, Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: No 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: Yes 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

British cuisine is diverse and influenced by various cultures. Traditional dishes include fish and chips, roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, and English breakfast. Notable local drinks include tea, ale, and gin. 
Tipping: Discretionary 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: Varies by season 

Summer: 

Average highs: 18-25°C 
Average lows: 10-15°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 2-8°C 
Average lows: 0-5°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit the UK depends on personal preferences. Summer months offer milder weather and longer days, while winter can be cold and damp. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant with fewer crowds. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes