home · Vietnam · What country do the Scots live in? The most interesting facts about Scotland: overview, history and sights

What country do the Scots live in? The most interesting facts about Scotland: overview, history and sights

👁 5.7k (59 in a week) ⏱️ 2 min.

Scotland on the world map

Geographically, Scotland belongs to the Eurasian continent and, at the same time, is located on the British Isles, which are separated from the continent by 33 kilometers. Scotland accounts for one third of Great Britain, and its northern part. The country also includes about 800 large and small islands located in the water area. The most famous islands are the Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland. Each of them differs in relief, vegetation and climatic features, the largest island is Lewis and Harris with an area of ​​2.2 thousand square kilometers.
Scotland has a land border of 95 km only with England. Scotland is separated from Ireland by the Northern Channel, the width of which at its narrowest point is 30 km. Scotland's closest neighbors are Norway, 300 km away, Iceland, 704 km, and the Faroe Islands, 270 km. In the west and north, Scotland is washed by the waters of the Atlantic, thanks to which the air ocean masses provide the region with a temperate maritime climate.
The length of Scotland along the mainland coastline is 9911 km, but if you add islands here, then in total the Scottish coast will be 16.5 thousand km. If you look at a map of Scotland, you can see how indented the western coast of the country is due to the presence of a large number of peninsulas and numerous bays, which, upon closer inspection, vaguely resemble fjords. In the East, the coast is outlined more smoothly, this region is characterized by sandy beaches stretching for many kilometers, which are called mahirs due to the fact that they are almost completely covered with dune vegetation, grass and small shrubs. Such coastal specificity appeared due to a sharp decrease in the level of sea water.

Political geography of Scotland

The modern territory of mainland Scotland has not changed since 1237, when the area of ​​​​its territory and borders were legalized by two treaties: York, the parties to which were England and Scotland and Perth (1266), concluded between Norway and Scotland. After that, changes in the territory of the country were associated with the transfer of the Isle of Man to the British and the annexation in 1472 of the once Norwegian islands of Orkney and Shetland. In addition, in 1482 the city of Berwick-upon-Tweed became part of England thanks to the monarch Richard III.
Throughout its history and until 1707, Scotland was an independent state, and only after the signing of the "Act of Union" did it become part of the Kingdom of Great Britain. From 1889 to 1975, Scotland was administratively divided into counties and burghs; since 1996, the country has been divided into 32 regions.
As part of the United Kingdom, the "country of the Celts" was represented in the British Parliament by Scottish delegates. After a referendum in 1997, the Scots created an independent parliament, which is located in the capital - Edinburgh. Internal issues of the country concerning the economy, education, management are resolved directly in the country. Britain remained responsible for the defense of Scotland and its foreign policy vector.
The disputed territory of Scotland includes the uninhabited island of Rokkol, located in the North Atlantic. In the middle of the 20th century, the atoll was annexed by Britain and declared part of Scotland in 1972, but disputes over Rokkola's ownership have not subsided to this day. The fish resources of the island are so rich that they are claimed by the Danes, Icelanders and the inhabitants of the Republic of Ireland.

Estimate!

Basic moments

Traveling in Scotland is a storm of emotions. It strikes with the majesty of its untouched nature: emerald hills and mountains, whose peaks are hidden in a misty haze, endless valleys dotted with flowering heather, ascetic rocky islands. Scotland is famous for its ancient castles with priceless works of art, endless beaches, golf courses, and excellent cuisine. More than 2 million people come here every year to admire this distant and slightly gloomy beauty. Holidays in Scotland belong to the category of expensive, and most of the tourists are representatives of wealthy countries of Western Europe and Americans. Many of them own real estate here.

The birthplace of whiskey and golf, bagpipes and checkered kilts is incredibly original. The Scots themselves today feel their individuality, have a special system of values, their own history and traditions that differ from the English. You can see for yourself, because no matter what time you come to Scotland, you will certainly witness one of the festivals, theatrical performances or traditional sports, the exact number of which is unknown even to the Scots themselves.

History of Scotland

It is known that already in the first centuries of the 1st millennium AD. e. most of the modern territory of Scotland was inhabited by Celtic tribes who penetrated here from Ireland. Having exterminated and partially assimilated the aboriginal population, they formed a nationality, which is usually called the "Picts". So this well-organized warlike tribe was called by the Romans, who unsuccessfully tried to conquer the northern lands of the island of Britain. "Piktus" in Latin means "painted": the Pict warriors who fought without armor tattooed their bodies with patterns.

Ever since the 11th century, England, the southern neighbor of Scotland, tried to conquer the kingdom, but the Scots managed to defend their independence for a long time. Hostilities between countries either subsided, then flared up again, which was greatly facilitated by the internal struggle of the Scottish clans for the throne. Pretenders to the crown often publicly or secretly tried to enlist the support of England, which skillfully pushed their foreheads together, using civil strife to invade, and sometimes initiated alliances based on marriages between the English and Scottish royal dynasties.

In the 16th century, Scotland was shaken by religious strife. The local nobility and the bourgeoisie supported the leader of the Scottish Reformation, John Knox, a student of Calvin. However, the monarchical Stuart dynasty was still devoted to Catholicism. The iconic victim of the religious confrontation between Protestants and Catholics was Mary Stuart, who refused to change her faith. In 1603, her son, the Scottish monarch James VI, took the English throne, however, despite the common ruler, the two countries were still unfriendly towards each other.

During the 17th century, attempts were made by the parliaments of Scotland and England to unite both states, but only in 1707, during the reign of Queen Anne, the last representative of the Stuart dynasty on the English throne, the Act of Union was adopted, which approved the formation of a single kingdom of Great Britain. The Scottish Parliament has ceased to exist. But the document contained such important postulates for the Scots as the priority of the Presbyterian Church and the independent status of the legal system.

In 1998, the British Parliament passed an Act that returned Scotland the right to have its own parliament and government.

Scottish character

According to the English writer George Orwell, the most striking features of the British are "ostentatious composure, politeness, respect for the law, suspicious attitude towards foreigners, sentimental affection for animals, hypocrisy, emphasizing class and class differences and a passion for sports." The people of Scotland will not fail to notice that these words apply chiefly to the English. The English themselves, to the displeasure of the Scots, are not inclined to recognize the difference between the words "British" and "Englishman", although the inconsistency of the Scottish national character, which combines gloominess and humor, prudence and generosity, arrogance and tolerance, sensitivity and stubbornness, often lead them into confusion. While the English can be affable depending on the circumstances, the Scots are characterized by sincere courtesy and hospitable hospitality. English literature is heavily spiced with witticisms against the Scots, who, in turn, often refer to the union of the two countries as a forced wedding. Unlike the English, the Scots have never been under either Roman or Franco-Norman rule, and this is an additional point of pride for them.

The establishment of Protestantism here, unlike in England, was often accompanied by tragic events, which hardened the character of the adherents of the Reformation, largely making them dogmatists. In remote parts of Scotland, cooking, cleaning or reading the press on Sundays are still considered the most serious sins. Scottish Catholics are also significantly more orthodox than English ones.

Keenly aware of their national identity, the Scots, however, are well aware of the economic benefits of their union with England. A vivid confirmation of this is the results of the independence referendum held in 2014 at the initiative of the Scottish National Party: 52% of the Scots supported the preservation of a single country.

The spirit of independent Scotland is especially felt in its northern regions, inhabited by Gaels - Scottish highlanders. They have their own way of life, in which there is still the concept of clan system, which was established here in the Middle Ages. Echoes of the old tribal system are still preserved in the surnames of the Scots of Gaelic origin, which begin with the word "Mack" (in Gaelic - "son"). Many inhabitants of mountain villages still bear a common surname today.

During national holidays, the Scots, wanting to emphasize adherence to traditions, dress up in ceremonial Gaelic clothes: smart white shirts with turn-down collars, plaid skirts with a large pleat (kilt), short cloth jackets and plaids that are thrown over one shoulder. The kilt and plaid are made from a special checkered fabric - tartan. Each Scottish clan had its own color of this fabric. At the end of the 18th century, these clothes became the uniform of the Scottish Guards regiments. Today, kilts are worn by teenage boys, adult men, and even officials.

National currency

Despite the fact that the official currency of Great Britain is the English pound, Scotland has the right to issue its own money. This is also a pound, but the bills have differences in design. However, it is guaranteed to spend Scottish pounds only in Scotland, in other regions of the UK they may not be accepted in stores. Such an exotic banknote is a good souvenir from this mountainous region.

Geography

Scotland "captured" a third of the country's territory and three archipelagos - the Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland Islands. Its northern and western coasts are washed by the waters of the Atlantic, and the eastern shores face the North Sea. Scotland is separated from the island of Ireland by the North Channel, which connects the Irish Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. The western and eastern coasts of Scotland are connected by the Caledonian Canal, part of which is the famous Loch Ness.

Highland Scotland has long been divided into two regions: the historical regions of Lowland and Highland. Lowland is located in the southeast, includes the South Scottish Highlands and the Scottish Lowlands. However, this territory can be called flat only conditionally: in its center lies a chain of hills of volcanic origin, hundreds of small rocky ridges are scattered everywhere. Only river floodplains occupy lowlands with fertile land and lush pastures. About two-thirds of the population lives in Lowland, and most of the large farms and industrial enterprises are concentrated here. Here are the largest cities in Scotland - the capital of Edinburgh and Glasgow.

In the northwest is the Highlands, or the Scottish Highlands. This is a special world with endless expanses of wild land, chains of rocky mountains crossed by narrow valleys with rivers, waterfalls and lakes, deep fjords leading to the sea. Exposed to the ocean winds, the western mountain slopes are devoid of tree vegetation, while the eastern ridges are sheltered by luxurious Scottish pines, spruces and deciduous trees. Above the forest line, moorlands, swamps and ferns dominate. In the southern part of the Highlands lie the Grampian Mountains, the highest in Britain, with the peak of Ben Nevis (1343 m).

tourism seasons

Due to the fact that Scotland has unlimited opportunities for a wide variety of recreation, the tourist season here lasts all year round. But massively travelers "occupy" it from May to August, as well as during the New Year and Christmas holidays.

May, when the season officially opens, is the sunniest month of the year. By noon, the air in the flat part of Scotland warms up to +15 ° C, in the northern regions it is slightly cooler. In summer, even on the warmest days, the air temperature does not exceed +23 ° C, cooling often occurs. If you decide to go to the mountains, dress warmly: here it is usually no more than +15 °C.

Summer is the time when the valleys and highlands cover bright carpets of blooming heather, and the west coast, washed by blue ocean waters, becomes comfortable for a beach holiday. Scottish white sand beaches stretching beyond the horizon are some of the most beautiful on the planet, but keep in mind that the water temperature near the coast never exceeds +20 °C. Summer is also the height of the fishing season.

In September, it is still quite warm (about +15 °С), but it starts to rain, however, for a short time. In October, the weather deteriorates sharply: the sky is covered with rain clouds, it becomes damp and windy. However, surfers believe that the best waves on the coast are in October. November brings increased winds and storms. The temperature on the Scottish plains is about +8 ° C, and in the mountainous regions the first snow falls, frosts occur.

Winter in the flat areas is quite mild, but damp and windy: the air temperature usually ranges from -2 to +4 ° C, it often snows with rain. In the mountains at this time it is snowy, the temperature can drop to -10 ° C. The ski season starts in December in Scotland and lasts until April.

Lowland

This historical region is clearly divided into eastern and western parts, not only geographically, but also due to the nature of its inhabitants. Easterners consider themselves refined people with good taste. The Scots living in the west, including in Glasgow, are not pretentious and believe that their main advantage is good-heartedness and realism.

Edinburgh

In the east of Scotland, along the picturesque coast of the Firth of Forth, there is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe - Edinburgh, which became the capital of the Scottish kingdom during the reign of David I (1124-1253). Whichever way you arrive in this city between the sea and the hills, the first thing that will appear to your eyes is a castle towering over a basalt ridge.

The castle finials seem to pierce the sky, and the peaked roofs, spiers and towers of the old city form a broken line of the horizon. It stretches from the battlements of the stronghold to the palace of Holyroodhouse, hiding under a green mountain called "King Arthur's Throne". At its top is the best observation deck in Edinburgh.

On the territory of the castle is the oldest building in the capital - a tiny chapel of Queen Margaret of Scotland. It was built at the beginning of the 12th century. The Scottish crown, scepter and sword are kept here - one of the oldest royal regalia in Europe.

The Royal Mile (Royal Mile), stretching from the wide esplanade in front of Edinburgh Castle to the royal palace of Holyroodhouse, was the center of city life until the end of the 18th century and still remains quite busy. Here, during the famous summer Edinburgh festival, a spectacular theatrical military parade takes place. Going down the street, you will see wonderful buildings - examples of British architecture of the 16th-18th centuries. Narrow alleys fan out from the Royal Mile. In their spans, you can see the Pentland Hills flashing between the tall buildings in the south, the North Sea in the east, and the silvery waters of the Firth of Forth in the north.

At the end of the Royal Mile is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the residence of Her Majesty the Queen during her stay in Scotland. The palace, founded by James IV in 1498, was completed under James V and Charles II. Wonderful French and Flemish tapestries hang in the official apartments, and 18th-century furniture is arranged. In the throne room, the Queen of Great Britain appoints senior officials and rewards the deserving.

Going down to the foot of the hills, you will find yourself in the heart of Edinburgh - on Princes Street, one of the busiest streets in Europe. It will take you to the New Town, nestled under the shadow of medieval buildings at the far end of the valley. This graceful complex of streets and circular squares is a fine example of 18th century urban planning.

It is pleasant to spend time in the capital, leisurely examining the numerous museums and galleries, where works of art created from the Middle Ages to the era of postmodernism are stored.

Edinburgh is not only the administrative, historical, but also the gastronomic center of Scotland. It has more restaurants per capita than any other city in the UK. In the lively cafes on the Royal Mile and in the spacious Grassmarket near the castle, you can enjoy a meal accompanied by music. The Royal Mile is home to the Deacon Brodie tavern featured in Robert Stevenson's macabre The Story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Rose Street is famous for its pubs, where after rugby matches fans have fun or feel sad. On the same street is one of the best cafes in Edinburgh - Abbotsford.

Borderland and eastern lands

Heading south from Edinburgh along the road through the picturesque hills, you will find yourself in the border areas with England. This part of Scotland was always the first to repulse the Romans and the British, holding back their attempts to break through to the north. Today it is a peaceful pastoral land with undulating ridges of green hills and clear river flows. The main occupation of the locals is farming, making tweed and knitwear. The Tweed River flowing here is an excellent place for trout and salmon fishing.

On the south bank of the river is Abbotsford Manor, built in the early 19th century by Sir Walter Scott according to his own design. A pretty house, built in the old Scottish style, seems to look at the river and looks incredibly romantic. Abbotsford, which is still owned by one of Scott's descendants, is filled with memories of the famous writer. Here is a museum that houses a fine collection of historical relics, armor and weapons, among them - the gun of Rob Roy, the sword of Montrose and the cup of Prince Charles Edward.

Drive 3 km further south to reach the charming town of Melrose, nestled at the foot of the triple ridge of the Eildon Hills. On one of the eastern slopes stands a Roman fortress, from where there is a delightful view of the hills running west towards Galloway. In the city itself, the ruins of the Melrose Abbey of the 12th century, which are still an architectural poem, are most impressive. The fame of the city was also brought by the invention by the local sports club of a kind of rugby "play with seven", which has become famous all over the world. In the cities of the border regions, rugby has a special passion. Nearby are picturesque medieval monasteries: Dryborough, where Walter Scott is buried, Kelso and Jedborough.

In the south of Scotland there are some particularly impressive stately estates, where you can admire the outstanding collections of paintings and furniture. Among them are Flores Castle, the residence of the Duke of Roxborough, one of the castles of the Duke of Buckleigh - Bowhill, the house of the Earls of Haddington - Mellerstein, built in the 18th century by the famous Scottish architect Robert Adam.

To the east of Edinburgh, south of the Firth of Forth lies the historical site of Lothian. The local hills and fields are covered with lush vegetation, and the golf courses located in these places are considered among the best in the UK. Aberlady Bay offers excellent birdwatching, as well as wonderful dune-lined sandbars and many castles.

10 km from the coast, near the city of Haddington, is located Lennoxlaus - the residence of the Duke of Hamilton. The city itself, with carefully restored buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries, also deserves a visit.

On the east coast is the St. Abbs Head Nature Reserve. It is located on a picturesque rocky cape jutting out into the North Sea. This is a bird's paradise: colonies of guillemots, cormorants, fulmars, herring gulls and auks nest here on the rocks. These places are the best for snorkeling in all of Scotland. Divers must obtain permission from the reserve ranger.

On the north side of the wide, silvery Firth of Forth lies the county of Fife. There are mines and industrial enterprises everywhere, but the life of the local cities and towns is distinguished by its originality and charm. In the western part of this land, at the head of the river, is the village of Culross, here you can see the best preserved and most picturesque houses of those that were built in the cities of Scotland in the 16th and 17th centuries.

To the east is the ancient capital of the Scottish kingdom of Dunfermline. Its main attraction is the beautiful 12th-century cathedral, where one of the greatest kings of Scotland, Robert the Bruce, was buried in 1329.

To the north of Dunfermline, on the coast of Fife Ness, there are picturesque fishing ports - Earlsferry, Sket Monance, Pittenwim, Anstruther and Crail. Nearby you will see Falkland Palace, the hunting lodge of the Stuarts, the elegant Tarvit House with a fine collection of furniture, tapestries, paintings, and Kelly Castle of the 14th century.

The most famous city in Fife is St. Andrews. This is the birthplace of golf, here is the famous Old Course, which has been played for 800 years. One of the oldest British universities, founded in 1412, is also located in St. Andrews. There are many magnificent buildings in this city, and it is also famous for the fact that for a long time it was the religious center of Scotland. Church reformer John Knox read his first sermon here.

Western lands

On the banks of the River Clyde, 22 km from its delta, is the largest city in Scotland - Glasgow. During the Middle Ages, it was an authoritative religious and educational center of the kingdom, and the industrial revolution of the 18th century turned it into one of the most economically developed and densely populated cities in Great Britain. Glasgow grew rich due to shipbuilding and heavy engineering, and at the end of the 19th century became the second largest city in Scotland. Its solid industrial base was destroyed during the economic recession of the 70s of the last century. True, the recession was followed by the economic and cultural flourishing of the 90s, and not so long ago, the EU recognized Glasgow as a “city of high culture”.

Not everything in Glasgow's cultural make-up is the achievement of recent decades. The 12th-century cathedral in the Old Town is the only medieval Scottish church to have escaped destruction during the Reformation. Opposite it, you can see the three-story Provence Lordship building - this is the oldest secular building in the city (1471), which has now become a museum. The old part also houses the Glasgow School of Art, the west wing of the building was built by the architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868-1928), one of the founders of the Art Nouveau style. In Glasgow, you should definitely visit the University Museum and the Art Gallery, which is second only to London's Tate Gallery in terms of the number of visitors. An impressive collection of paintings is exhibited here, including works by a group of artists from the end of the century before last, the Glasgow Boys, who worked in the style of impressionism and post-impressionism, as well as Scottish painters who worked in the post-war years.

The highway, passing through the center of Glasgow and then crossing the River Clyde, will take you to Ayrshire. This is the birthplace of Robert Burns and the area of ​​famous resorts such as Large, Troon, Prestwick and Gurvan. From Wemes Bay there is a ferry to the Isles of Bute and Millport, and from the city of Ardrossan to Arran, a favorite Sunday holiday destination for Scots living on the West Coast. Ayrshire has some of the best golf courses in Scotland. Among them are three venues for the Open Championship, where it first took place in 1860.

Not far from the coastal town of Ayr, in the provincial Alloway, stands the house where the iconic Scottish poet Robert Burns was born in 1759 to a peasant family. Next to it is a modern building, which houses a museum dedicated to the author of immortal ballads.

On the coast near the town of Kerkoswalda rises Kalzin Castle - one of the greatest creations of the architect Robert Adam. Here you can admire a fine collection of paintings, weapons, furniture and porcelain.

South of Ayrshire along the Solway Firth are Dumfries, Galloway and other pretty towns and villages. Further they are replaced by wild moorlands. This piece of land ends in the Galloway peninsula, which is shaped like a hammer. The upper part of the "hammer" is separated from the sea by Loch Ryan Bay, famous for its oysters. Stranraer, the main port of departure from Scotland to Ireland, is located in the harbor of the bay.

Eight kilometers to the north, towards the city of Dumfries, lie the imposing ruins of Sweetheart Abbey. Dumfries itself, located on the river Nith, chosen by trout, is the largest city in the south-west of Scotland. Robert Burns moved here at the end of his life. His house has been preserved and turned into a museum. A monument to the poet stands on High Street.

12 km south of Dumfries, on the banks of the Solway Firth, you will see the remains of the triangular fortress of Caerlaverock surrounded by a moat with water. It was a powerful fortification on the border lands with England. In the 17th century, the Earl of Nithsdale built a classical mansion inside the ruins, thus creating one of the most extravagant architectural complexes in Scotland.

Between Glasgow and Edinburgh is the city of Stirling, which claims to be the true capital of Scotland. Its whole history is an illustration of the struggle of Scotland for its independence. Stirling Castle, the most important defensive stronghold of Scotland, seems to grow out of a high rock, personifying the rebelliousness and courage of the Scots. Several times it was captured by the British, but they could not hold out for a long time. From 1307 to 1603 the castle was the residence of the Stuarts. Here we also recommend visiting the Church of the Holy Cross and the Abbey of Cambaskennet.

At the time of the confrontation between Scotland and England, it was believed that the side controlling the castle was the owner of the entire Kingdom of Scotland, and today the ancient city of Stirling is called the brooch that holds the southern Lowlands and the northern Highlands together.

highland

The historical Highland region occupies almost a third of the territory of Scotland, but hardly more than 10% of its population lives here. There are so many picturesque corners on this earth that one can spend a lifetime to look into each of them.

The southern border of the Highlands, bordering the Lowlands, divides Scotland diagonally, from the Mull of Kintyre, a narrow strip of land stretching from the county of Argyll, on the west coast, to Stonehwein, lying on the east coast, south of Aberdeen - the third largest city Scotland. After large oil reserves were discovered in the North Sea in the 1970s, the center of the UK oil industry developed here.

The convenient strategic location of Aberdeen in the Middle Ages turned the city into a royal domain, which contributed to its economic and cultural development. The local university, founded in 1495, is one of the five oldest in the UK. Aberdeen is often called the "Silver City" due to the fact that the quartz crystals in the granite, from which the city buildings were erected, sparkle expressively in the rays of the sun.

80 km east of Aberdeen, on the Royal Deeside, is Balmoral Manor, founded in the 15th century. Since 1848, it has been owned by the royal family, whose members spend part of the summer here. The castle is closed to the public, but when the crowned persons leave it, the castle park becomes available to the public. On the way to the royal estate, you will see many magnificent castles. All of them are distinguished by their original style and furnishings, beautiful stucco ceilings, and valuable collections of works of art.

Traveling through the northwestern lands of the Highlands is more convenient to start from Glasgow. The highway leading from this city to the north almost immediately leads to the highlands, and stretches along the shores of Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater reservoir in Great Britain, 37 km long and 8 km at its widest. The local places are illuminated with amazing soft light, which gives magical mystery to medieval castles and steep hills surrounding the lake. Behind Loch Lomond rises the eternal challenge to climbers Ben Lomond - one of the Munroes, as 282 Scottish peaks are called "three-thousanders" (3000 feet \u003d 914 m).

To the northeast of these places lies the city of Fort William with its magnificent fortifications of the 17th century. Fort William is a busy crossroads of the Highlands, from where tourists set off on a journey along a wide variety of routes. One of them is laid to the popular corner of the Scottish Highlands - Glencoe. This deep, incredibly picturesque valley stretches for 11 km from Loch Leven to the wasteland of Rannoch Mawr. In Glencoe there is a historical area - Wailing Valley. Here, in 1692, the troops of the English King William III attacked the MacDonald clan, slaughtering the entire population as punishment for the slowness shown by the head of the clan in expressing allegiance to the English king.

Rannochmore is 155 km² of peat bogs, moorlands, lakes and meandering streams. The inhabitants of the plain are waterfowl, larks, plovers, red deer, and fat trout are found in local brown peat lakes. A beautiful panorama of these places opens up to tourists traveling by rail, laid at an altitude of 400 m above sea level.

Bus excursions depart from Fort William to the legendary Loch Ness, where tourists rush in the hope of meeting the famous Scottish monster. Most likely, you will never be able to see serpentine contours on the smooth surface of the lake, but you can always admire the picturesque ruins of Urquhart Castle, located in these parts.

To the northeast of Fort William is a historic area - the plain of Culloden Sea, where in 1746 a battle took place between the Scots under the leadership of Charles Edward Stuart, the pretender to the British throne, and government troops under the command of the Duke of Cumberland. The Scots were defeated, and today stones rise along the road leading to these places, marking their graves. The battle was fought near the Old Lenach farm. It exists today, becoming the Culloden House Museum.

To the west, along the Spey River, lie the rich lands of the Lai of Morea. Distilleries are located here, where most of the malt whiskey is produced. Some of them are open to visitors. Here you can watch the process of making the Gaelic "aqua vitae", and even skip a glass at the end of the tour.

The road leading from Fort William west to the city of Mallaiga passes through places where stunning panoramas will open up to your eyes. Passing Loch Shiel, you will find yourself in Lochalorth with its magnificent views of the sea and rocky islets in the clear waters of Loch nan Wam. Then you will see how its rocky shores give way to the silver, dazzling sands of the coastal regions of Morar and Arisaig. Further from the shore, mountains stretch, reflected in the dark waters of Loch Morar, the deepest lake in Great Britain, whose depth exceeds 300 m. Here, they say, lives a monster no less mysterious than the Loch Ness reptile.

Mallaig itself is a small but picturesque port from where ferries run to the Hebrides. Heading further north from Mallaig, you will see one of the most beautiful lakes in Scotland - Loch Mary, wonderful gardens in Inverie on Loch Eve, watch how landscapes change, gradually acquiring the harsh outlines of lunar landscapes.

The road to the north will lead to Inverness - the administrative center of the Highlands and the largest city in Northern Scotland. It is known to Shakespeare fans as the birthplace of King Macbeth, but this is not true, but the medieval Inverness Castle, built on a rock, described by the poet, is quite real. Occupying a strategic position at the mouth of the Ness River, it survived more than one siege and witnessed the most important historical events.

Today Inverness is a major trading center, a port from where ferries leave for the far north of Scotland - to the Orkney and Shetland Islands.

Islands

In the very north of Great Britain, between the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, there are two archipelagos: Orkney and Shetland. The first from the northern tip of Scotland is separated by 10 km, the second - 150 km. A significant part of the islands and islets belonging to both archipelagos is uninhabited.

On this primeval land, open to the sea and the sky, the owners are rocks, hills and mountains. The shores of the islands, which are often hit by high, powerful waves, are steep, indented by deep fjords and bays. Rocks on some islands rise more than three hundred meters. Nature demonstrates a variety of rocks here - red and gray granites, black labrador, pink and brown quartz, gray and white limestones.

There are also low, gently sloping shores, which are slippery, overgrown with algae, randomly piled up boulders and slabs. In some bays, swampy shores suddenly turn into luxurious beaches with white sand.

Due to the continuous winds, the weather here is unstable, but thanks to the warm sea current, it cannot be called harsh. The most comfortable time is June-July. At this time, it is light 19 hours a day, during the day it is mostly clear, but the wind can bring a cold snap or thick fog at any moment. Going to the islands, you should take care of waterproof clothing and shoes.

In late spring and early summer, everything is in bloom here, and numerous birds that have chosen these places hatch and raise their offspring. In July, the birds change plumage and prepare for a journey to warmer climes. Watching them through binoculars is a very interesting activity.

The largest among the Orkney Islands is Mainland, where 75% of the population of the archipelago lives. The cities of Stromness and Kirkwall are located here. The coast to the north of Stromness will give you one of the most exciting trips to the seaside cliffs of Britain. In Kirkwall, it is interesting to see the ruins of buildings of the Norman period and the earl's palace - one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland.

On the east coast of the Mainland, one can see a well-preserved Neolithic settlement dating back to around 3000 BC. e. and the huge burial mound Mes Howe.

The Shetland Islands have only one city, Lerwick, but there is an airport connected to most Scottish airports, and the frequency of flights is quite high due to the oil wells located here. New oilfields in the North Sea for some time significantly curtailed the opportunities for tourism, but today it has revived, and Shetland antiquities have regained the attention of travelers.

Wander 10 km west of Lerwick among the picturesque ruins of Skalloway Castle. On the small island of Mausa, see the well-preserved Iron Age building - the "broch" (tower-fortress). On the island of Unst, admire Manes Castle.

The Hebrides are widely spread in the ocean off the northwest coast of Scotland. The archipelago includes about 500 islands, large and very tiny. It is often cloudy and rainy here, and lead waves crash on the coast. But the weather here is changeable, and quickly changes anger to mercy, delighting with the sun and calm sea, which suddenly acquires a piercing blue, "tropical" color.

The largest island in the archipelago is Skye. From the fjords in the east to the steep Cullin Mountains and rocky coastline in the east, Skye is a miniature representation of the wild Celtic spirit that pervades Scotland. The Cullin Ridge is a 10-kilometer chain of mountain peaks, 15 of which exceed the mark of 900 m. At the foot of the massif lies the Glen Sligahan valley, 13 km south of it is Lake Logue Scavaig. The romantic castle of Armadale is located in these places.

In the northwest of the island stands the oldest inhabited castle in Scotland - Dunvegan. The heads of the MacLeod clan have been in charge here for more than 800 years. Now the family of the 30th head of the clan, Hugh Macleod, lives in the castle. Visiting the castle with a walk in its gardens - £ 10. The entrance for guests is open from 10:00 to 17:00.

In the town of Dunvegan, a mile south of the castle, book a boat trip. The vessel sails to the habitat of sea seals, you can go fishing from the side.

On the island of Lewis there is a mysterious structure of vertically placed stone blocks forming a circle. This megalithic complex is believed to have been built in the Late Neolithic and is associated with the cult of the Moon.

Leisure

The Scots love sports. Golf, rugby, curling, football, mountain climbing, sailing regattas, surfing, scuba diving are especially popular here. Scotland has created an excellent infrastructure for outdoor activities, which has become a reliable support for the tourism industry, which was originally focused on historical sites.

For lovers of hiking, an incredible number of trails have been laid that stretch along the coastline, along the slopes of steep cliffs and territories of reserved wild corners. Some difficult routes can only be followed by guides.

Fans of cycling will also be pleased. For cyclists, special paths are laid here in the forest and countryside, along the sides of the railway track and highways, where the traffic is not very busy.

There are over 500 excellent golf courses scattered throughout Scotland. The best of them are on its east coast.

The intricately indented coastline of Scotland, its rivers, lakes, islands make this region one of the best places in the world for water sports. Fans of recreation on the water can only choose between yachting, rafting, water skiing, diving, surfing.

Horse riding is also popular here. On noble horses and strong Scottish ponies, you can take short walks along the coast or go on a long tour of the interior regions of the country.

There are 5 ski areas in Scotland with resorts of different price categories, where all conditions are created for both professionals and beginners, even the smallest ones. Here you will find not only skiing, but also snowboarding and freeriding. In addition, the resorts are constantly hosting interesting events, such as the “dog rally” (“Aviemore Husky Sled Dog Rally”), where you can take part in dog sled races.

Educational tours

In Scotland, as in England, people often go to study English and immerse themselves in the language environment. Schoolchildren and students, people of middle and older age go on educational tours. Education here lasts all year round, the minimum course duration is a week.

It is better to send your children to educational centers-schools focused on children from 8 to 16 years old during the holidays. This provides an excellent opportunity to combine learning with outdoor activities and educational excursions.

The cost of a 2-3-week educational tour to Scotland, depending on the chosen program, is from £ 2000 to £ 5000.

Scottish cuisine

Scotland has always been famous for the quality of its beef. Cattle raised on mountain pastures make excellent steaks. Their taste is well emphasized by cream, oatmeal sauce and whiskey. Salmon from the lakes and rivers of Scotland is also famous all over the world, as is the local seafood.

Lamb dishes are popular in Scotland. Among them, of course, is the legendary "haggis" - a lamb's stomach stuffed with oatmeal and generously seasoned with spices and giblets with visceral fat. Game dishes are no less famous, partridge and pheasant are especially good, they are cooked with raspberries, currants, wild berries.

Tourists like local sweet dishes - oatmeal flavored with cream and honey, puddings with dried fruits, ice cream made from natural fresh milk.

As in all of Europe, in Scotland there are apparently international fast food chains, but for a quick and inexpensive bite, it is much more pleasant to go to a cafe or pub that serves homemade food. In addition to the popular beer, sherry, brandy and port wine, pub menus usually include dishes such as soups, pies with beef and kidneys or pork, lard casserole, scrambled eggs, rolls and the ever-requested "Plowman's Lunch" of bread, cheese, pickles and lettuce.

The Scots love their national product - whiskey. There are more than 100 distilleries here, each of which produces its own elite varieties of this drink. Those who enjoy tasting this fiery product should go on one of the whiskey tours offered by most travel agencies.

What to buy

If you want to buy a solid and beautiful piece of Scottish memory, buy a stylish woolen sweater from well-known local manufacturers with a history (from £90) or silver jewelry (the best are sold in the northern, "Celtic" areas). A great purchase is a kilt or plaid (from £90 to £190), or something more modest - a soft and cozy checkered scarf (up to £20).

Popular souvenirs from Scotland are crafts made of metal and wood with national symbols, leather belts, stylish belt buckles. Delicious gifts - oatmeal cookies, heather tea and, of course, real Scotch whiskey.

Where to stay

All over Scotland offers a wide choice of places to stay, from chic rooms in modern hotels and ancient castles to cozy rooms in family houses on farms, where you will be served on the basis of bed and breakfast. Modern hotels here are expensive and often faceless, unlike rural cottage-hotels, where you can enjoy comfortable accommodation with a charming interior. Many of them are located in old houses. The cost of living varies depending on the location and the range of services provided, but a daily room rental is unlikely to cost less than £60.

It would be a shame to visit Scotland and not spend at least a night in one of the medieval castles. If you want to dine by candlelight in a knight's hall or a dungeon, take part in quests based on detective novels, and at dawn, open the window, let in a muffled ghostly light into your abode, making its way through the fog and intoxicating the air with its freshness, you will have to pay for a double room at least £160 per day.

Some medieval castles host youth hostels and English language training centers. Old buildings also often host hostels and apartments. The minimum price for staying in a hostel is £ 30 (room with 8 beds and facilities on the floor).

Safety

Crime in Scotland is quite low, which is facilitated by CCTV cameras placed everywhere. But, as in any other country, pickpockets are not uncommon in crowded places, so you should not keep large amounts of cash with you. Some areas of Glasgow have a bad reputation, but in the Highlands, locals often do not even lock the doors to the house, and leave the car keys in the cabin.

In case of an unpleasant incident, you need to call the single number 999 (police, ambulance, firemen).

Transport

All settlements in Scotland are connected by bus and rail. But if a bus ride from Edinburgh to Glasgow costs only £4, then a 50-minute journey on the Edinburgh-Glasgow train will cost £13-22 (tickets in Class I compartments are 50% more expensive). In the cities of Scotland, buses predominate on public routes, but tram lines have survived in some places. Ticket price - £ 1.2-1.5.

Black old-fashioned Scottish taxis are copies of spacious London cabs. On free cars, the yellow beacon on the roof is lit. The fare is recorded by the meter, converting the yards and miles traveled into pounds. The first kilometer is £3.75. Then 60 pence are added to them for every 169 m.

You can go to any of the 60 Scottish islands by sea ferries. The cost of a trip up to 1 hour is £ 5-8. Small planes fly to the remote Shetland and Orkney Islands.

In the remote mountainous provinces and on the islands, passengers are transported by Royal Mail minibuses, which can take from 2 to 6 fellow travelers. Car rental provides complete freedom of movement. The cost of renting an economy class car is from £ 23 / day. The traffic here is left-handed, and you should be aware of the nuances of local traffic rules. For example, the maximum speed in the city is 48 km/h (in Edinburgh it is 30 km/h). The speed is controlled by automatic recorders installed everywhere. The fine for exceeding is £1,000, for not wearing seat belts (including passengers) is £500, and for extra per mille of alcohol in the blood, you need to pay £5,000, and you can even go to jail.

Glasgow has one of the oldest subways in the world. The first metro stations opened at the end of the century before last. After the modernization of the subway, streamlined orange trains appeared here, moving with the accuracy of a chronometer. The townspeople nicknamed their subway "A Clockwork Orange". A single ticket will cost you £1, a day ticket will cost you £1.90.

How to get there

There are no regular direct flights from the Russian Federation to the cities of Scotland. However, you can get to the airports of Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness, Edinburgh with a transfer in London or at international airports in other European capitals.

The lowest cost of a flight to Glasgow from Moscow and back is offered by low-cost airlines. For example, the British discounter easyJet regularly operates flights from Domodedovo airport to Glasgow with a transfer in London (a/p Heathrow). The ticket should be booked in advance, it is convenient to make an application on the Internet. The cost of a ticket with a return flight in economy class on an Airbus A-321 is 309 € (taxes are included, meals are paid on board at will). Distance: 2546 km, travel time - 4 h. 20 min.

If you take the initiative and take full advantage of the possibilities of the World Wide Web, you can fly to Scotland even cheaper. Book your tickets months in advance, prices will increase as your desired flight date approaches.

High-speed trains run from London to Edinburgh and Glasgow. Travel time is 4.5 and 5 hours respectively. A train ticket is expensive, around £100.

By car from Moscow to Scotland along the shortest route, you need to cover about 3,650 km. On this journey, you will drive along excellent European highways through Belarus, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and France, use the tunnel under the English Channel (50 km, the car will be transported by train), cross Britain from south to north.

Until 1707 it was an independent state. And it appeared a very long time ago - back in 843 AD.

Like many other countries, Scotland has its own national motto. It sounds in Latin and in translation means "No one will touch me with impunity." This motto already speaks of how much the country has experienced on the way to its prosperity, the population here has always been very independent and independent. Moreover, they even have their own national animal - the unicorn. The choice is unclear, apparently, it further emphasizes the original independence of the inhabitants of Scotland.

The territory of this country occupies 78.7 thousand square kilometers. The telephone code of the country is +44, followed by the area code. As for religion, the majority of the population are adherents of the Church of Scotland of the Presbyterian type, 16 percent identify themselves as the Roman Catholic Church, 28 percent are atheists.

IN Scotland home to more than five million people. Their characteristic features can be called the already mentioned independence and originality - in any conversation, the Scot will always try to distinguish himself, to make himself different from others. Take, for example, even superstitions: if in many countries a black cat that crosses the road leads to problems, then the Scots, on the contrary, to good luck. They are quite friendly and sociable, but often suffer from bouts of melancholy. The Scots are quite practical and very proud, they will not talk about themselves if they see that they are not being paid due attention.

By the way, Scotland is one of the few countries where there are three official languages ​​at once - Scottish Gaelic, English and Anglo-Scots. Some of the words in these languages ​​are borrowed from each other and changed, so many tourists often get confused in their heads.

It is worth noting one funny law that exists in Scotland: if someone knocks on the door of a Scot and asks for permission to use the bathroom if needed, the owner is obliged to let the person in. I wonder how often people come to their house with a similar request.

The climate here is relatively warm, in summer the temperature is around 20 degrees. In winter, the temperature only reaches 3 degrees. But nevertheless, there are quite often unexpected changes in the weather here - after a bright sun, heavy rain or even a hurricane begins abruptly. Of all parts of the UK, Scotland can be considered the coolest in terms of weather.

What is famous Scotland in the eyes of tourists? Of course, the famous kilt, bagpipes and Scotch whiskey. The tradition of wearing a kilt appeared among the Scots because of the local terrain - Scotland is completely covered with mountains, therefore it has long been convenient to move around in such attire, and at night they also hide. Now the kilt has become part of the national treasure, and its historical function has disappeared.

It is rightfully considered one of the most delicious. It has been produced here for many centuries in a row, there are a fairly large number of varieties, it is recommended to try single malt and grain whiskey - they most fully convey the entire flavor range. By the way, the word whiskey in translation means “water of life”. Apparently, in numerous wars, it was in this way that the Scots maintained their viability.

Scotland can be safely called the country of music and arts; music competitions and performances are regularly held here. In particular, the local people are especially fond of national music played by bagpipers.

The famous sights of Scotland include Loch Ness. Legends about the Loch Ness monster, which lives in the depths of the lake, are still circulating even among Russian tourists, many specially come there on an excursion in the hope that they will be lucky to see this famous monster.

Tourists are also highly recommended to visit Edinburgh Castle. It is located on the edge of Castle Rock, and its walls hide dense forests. Once upon a time, stormy wars took place here and the castle was a point of defense. Now it has turned into a museum, where you can see the treasures of the Scottish crown with your own eyes. The castle seems to evoke a sense of independence and numerous military victories.

If they evoke the impression of modern countries of progress, then Scotland evokes associations of something historical, saturated with traditions. Therefore, you should definitely visit all corners of the UK to get a complete picture of life in the United Kingdom.

Today in Scotland there is a referendum in which the inhabitants of this country decide whether to remain part of the united kingdom or not.
So what is Scotland? For those who are interested, read this post.

1. Unicorn - an animal that is depicted on the coat of arms of Scotland.

2. The shortest scheduled flights in the world are in Scotland. The flight is a mile and a half from Westray to Papa Westray in the Orkney Islands. The journey lasts 1 minute 14 seconds.

3. Scotland has approximately 790 islands, 130 of which are uninhabited.

4. Skara Brae - Neolithic settlement located on Bray Island, Orkney, is the oldest building in the UK, which dates back to 3100 BC. e.

5. Hamilton's Mausoleum in South Lanarkshire has the longest echo in the world - it lasts 15 seconds.

6. Scotland has over 600 sq. miles of freshwater lakes, including the most famous Loch Ness.

7. The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is the second largest city after Glasgow.

8. Edinburgh became the first city in the world to have its own fire brigade.

9. Like Rome, Edinburgh was built on seven hills. The city has the largest number of architectural monuments than anywhere else in the world.

10. Until 1603, Scotland had its own monarch. After Elizabeth I died, James VI of Scotland also took over both Scotland and England, as a result he also became James I of England.

Balmoral Castle, where the royal family loves to relax.

11. The city of St. Andrews is considered the "birthplace of golf". It has been played here since the 15th century.

12. It is believed that Queen Victoria smoked cigarettes during her visit to the Scottish Highlands to ward off midges.

13. Edinburgh was the birthplace of Skye Terrier Bobby Greyfires, who won the hearts of everyone who knows his story.

After the death of the owner, Bobby every day for 14 years went to the cafe where he used to be with the owner, received a bun and returned to the owner's grave in the cemetery. There he met his death and was buried. In Edinburgh there is a fountain with a skye terrier sculpture. The monument was erected in 1872 after the death of Bobby, who earned a reputation as the most faithful dog in the world.

14. Scotland is currently the second largest country in the UK after England.

16. The motto of Scotland is “Nemo me impune lacessit”, or “No one touches me with impunity”. It is used by the Order of the Thistle and also in later versions of the royal coat of arms.

17. Scotland is the favorite country of the royal family, who loves to relax in Balmoral Castle on the banks of the River Dee.

18. In the northeast of the country, girls are called quines, and boys are called louns.

19. The first recorded appearance of the Loch Ness monster was in 565 AD, when the monster attacked one of the followers of St. Columba.

Saint Columba - Irish holy monk, preacher of Christianity in Scotland. Saint Columba is considered one of the twelve apostles of Ireland. In 563, St. Columba founded the first monastery in what is now Scotland and was the abbot there.

20. The Scottish city of Aberdeen is known as the oil capital of Europe, as well as the Granite City.

The Fortingall yew is the oldest tree in Europe.

21. The deepest lake in Scotland, Loch Morar, reaches a depth of 328 meters and is considered the seventh deepest lake in the world.

22. Scotland's smallest distillery, Edradour in Pitlochry, has 100,000 visitors a year but produces only 90,000 liters of malt whisky.

23. Scotland is the birthplace of the oldest tree in Europe, the Forthingale yew, which is approximately 3 thousand years old. According to local legend, Pontius Pilate was born in the shade of this yew tree and played there when he was little.

24. The raincoat was invented in 1824 in Scotland. It was invented by Charles Mackintosh, a chemist from Glasgow. In the UK, the raincoat is still called "Mac".

25. The state religion of Scotland is Christianity.

26. Scotland gained independence in 1314 when Robert the Bruce defeated an English army at the Battle of Bannockburn.

27. The Kingdom of Scotland remained independent until May 1, 1707, when, by an Act of Union, Scotland joined England, forming a single state - the United Kingdom of Great Britain.

29. The territory of the country occupies 78,772 km².

30. The population of the country is about 5.2 million, which is approximately 8.5% of the total population of the UK.
31. Population density - 65.9 people / km².

32. About the same number of Scots live in North America as in Scotland itself, while, according to the US and Canadian censuses, about 5 million people claim to have Scottish roots.

33. Scotland has its own judicial system, distinct from England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Juries can return guilty, not guilty, and not proven guilty verdicts.

34. The Bank of Scotland, founded in 1695, is the oldest existing bank in the UK. It was also the first bank in Europe to start issuing its own banknotes.

35. Notable Scottish inventors include John Logie Baird, who invented television in 1925, Alexander Graham Bell, who invented the telephone in 1876, and Alexander Fleming, who invented penicillin in 1928.

36. The first university hospital in America, the Baltimore Infirmary, was founded by Glasgow surgeon Granville Sharp Pattison in 1816.

37. Scotland has three official languages: English, Scottish and Gaelic, which is spoken by only 1% of the population.

38. There are 19 universities and institutes in Scotland, including the University of St. Andrews, where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate, met.

39. The area of ​​Scotland is approximately equal to the area of ​​the Czech Republic, the United Arab Emirates, Panama, the state of Maine in the USA or the Japanese island of Hokkaido.

40. The first two prime ministers of Canada, John Macdonald (1815-1891) and Alexander Mackenzie (1822-1892) were Scottish.
41. One of the most famous products produced in Scotland - whiskey - was invented in China. First it was distilled by monks in Ireland at the beginning of the 15th century, and only 100 years later whiskey came to Scotland.

42. The most infamous dish in Scotland is haggis. It is prepared from lamb giblets - liver, heart and lungs, cooked in a lamb stomach. It is not known where it originated, but a similar dish was mentioned in Greece 2,500 years ago.

43. Scotland is the birthplace of many great thinkers including Adam Smith, James Watt, David Hume and John Stuart Mill.

44. Famous Scottish inventions include logarithms (1614), asphalt (1820) and the pneumatic tire (1887).

45. Many famous Scottish inventions - kilts, tartan (checkered pattern) and bagpipes - were not invented in Scotland. Kilts originated in Ireland, checkered ornaments were discovered in Bronze Age Central Europe, and bagpipes came from Central Asia.

46. ​​Famous representatives of literature - Sir Walter Scott, Lord Byron and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

47. The flag of Scotland is an image of the St. Andrew's Cross.

48. Thistle is a symbol of Scotland.

49. Scotland has the most redheads in the world. About 13% of the Scottish population are redheads, and 40% of the population are carriers of the recessive gene.

50. The first official international football match was played in 1872 in the West of Scotland between England and Scotland.

Scotland - the most detailed information about the country with a photo. Sights, cities of Scotland, climate, geography, population and culture.

Scotland

Scotland is a country in the north of the island of Great Britain, which is part of the state of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. It borders on land with England and is washed by the seas of the Atlantic Ocean: the North (in the east) and the Irish (in the west). The capital of Scotland is Edinburgh, while the largest city is Glasgow. The country has an amazing authentic atmosphere, rich traditions and wide autonomy.

Scotland is one of the most beautiful places in Britain, famous for its magnificent dramatic scenery of rugged mountains and green valleys, picturesque hills, fields, forests and a rugged coastline. Here, history surrounds almost everywhere, revealing the secrets of legendary battles, romantic ruins and old stone churches. Scotland is a country of amazing diversity, where you can find almost a complete range of tourist attractions: beautiful medieval cities, fairy-tale castles and beautiful natural landscapes. But the main highlight of Scotland is the loneliness of remote moorlands and islands, wild mountains and secluded sandy beaches.

Useful information about Scotland

  1. The population is 5.3 million people.
  2. Area - 78,722 km 2.
  3. Language - English, Gaelic and Scottish.
  4. Currency - pound sterling.
  5. Time - UTC 0, summer +1.
  6. The UK is not a member of the Schengen Agreement. A visa can be obtained upon a personal visit to accredited visa centers located in Moscow, Novosibirsk, St. Petersburg, Rostov-on-Don and Yekaterinburg.
  7. The political system is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy.
  8. The predominant religion is Presbyterianism (a branch of Christian Protestantism).
  9. Electric network voltage - 230 V, 50 Hz.
  10. Car traffic is on the left side. Drunk driving is not allowed. Most intersections are equipped with roundabouts.
  11. The most popular souvenirs are whiskey (scotch) and kilt. A real kilt is made of wool and is quite expensive (300-400 pounds).

Geography and nature

Scotland occupies the northern part of Great Britain. In terms of area, its territory is approximately equal to the Czech Republic. The country is washed by the seas of the Atlantic Ocean: Northern and Irish. Scotland is separated from the island of Ireland by a strait. Despite all the diversity of nature and relief, the country's territory can be divided into three physiographic regions: the North Scottish Highlands (occupies the north and west), the Mid-Scottish Lowland and the South Scottish Highlands. In the central part of the highlands, there is the largest mountain range in Scotland - the Grampian Mountains (including the highest point in Scotland and Great Britain, Ben Nevis, 1344 m high).

In terms of relief, Scotland is a country of low mountains and hills. The North Scottish Highlands occupies 60% of the country's territory, and the South Scottish Highlands - 20%. Thanks to this, Scotland has many unspoiled natural landscapes. The country has a significant sea coast (the length of the coastline, not counting the numerous islands, is almost 10,000 km). The west coast of Scotland is mainly characterized by a rugged coastline reminiscent of the Scandinavian fjords and cliffs. The east coast, on the contrary, has a more even outline and numerous sandy beaches. Also, coastal waters include more than 700 islands, which are grouped into the following groups (archipelagos): the Shetland Islands, the Orkney Islands and the Hebrides.


Scotland is famous for its many picturesque lakes and small rivers. The largest rivers: Tay, Spey, Clyde, Dee, Don, Tweed. The largest lakes: Loch Lomond (the largest lake in Great Britain by area), Loch Ness (the largest by volume), Loch-O. Scotland also has a stunning and diverse nature: harsh mountains with fast rivers and waterfalls, meadows and coniferous forests, moorlands and wastelands, plains and a picturesque coastline with fjords and sandy beaches.

Climate

Most of Scotland has a temperate maritime climate. It is characterized by cool summers and springs, rainy autumns and relatively mild winters. Everyone knows the variability and unpredictability of the Scottish weather, when you can experience all four seasons in one day. Although, in fairness, it should be noted that temperature extremes are rare.


Best time to visit

Spring is a truly great time to visit Scotland, although it can get a little chilly (average temperatures between 4 and 12°C). Summer is the peak tourist season with comfortable weather (average temperatures between 12 and 20 °C) and an abundance of cultural events. Autumn is a beautiful time of bright colors, perfect for visiting castles and parks (average temperatures are between 7 and 14°C and it can be a little rainy). Winter is the low tourist season and has its own charm (average temperature 2 to 7 °C).


History of Scotland

Scotland's history is rich and varied, exciting and complex. The Romans and Vikings (Normans), Anglo-Saxons and the British tried to subdue its territory. The first written mention of Scotland dates back to the beginning of the Roman conquest of Britain. Although in the 1st century AD. The Romans occupied only the southern part of the country. The north was inhabited by Picts and Gaels, free from the power of Rome and quite militant. The Romans called these lands Caledonia, and their inhabitants Caledonians.

In the 1st century A.D. Roman troops succeeded in defeating the Caledonians. In the years 122-126, the Romans built a chain of defensive fortifications (Hadrian's Wall), the purpose of which was to protect the British provinces. A few decades later, the chain of fortifications was pushed even further north (deep into Scottish territories). These defensive structures were abandoned at the beginning of the 3rd century under Septimius Severus.


In the early Middle Ages, several kingdoms were formed in Scotland. The largest and most significant state was the kingdom of Fortriu, which was also called Scotland. In 843 a united kingdom of Scotland was created. Over the following centuries, it expanded to about its present-day borders. In the 9th - 10th century, French and Anglo-Saxon settlers began to move to Scotland, who brought the English language and a new culture. By the end of the Middle Ages, the country was divided into the flat part, where Scottish English was spoken, and the highlands, where traditions were strong and Gaelic was spoken.

One of the most difficult periods in the history of Scotland was the 13th century, when in 1290 the direct branch of inheritance was cut short. John Balliol eventually became king, supported by the British. In gratitude for this, the new king recognized England as suzerain. After the coronation of John, several Scottish nobles did not recognize his authority. Also, the English king Edward I began to consider Scotland his vassal. In 1295, John spoke out against the British. In response, the English monarch declared him a rebel and invaded Scotland. In 1296, the English troops defeated the Scots and the country lost its independence.


In 1297 the Scots revolted and defeated the English. In 1298, Edward I led an invasion in person and again defeated the Scots. In the future, the struggle against English domination was led by Robert I the Bruce, who was crowned in 1306. In 1314, the Scots defeated the English under the leadership of Edward II. After the death of Robert I, a struggle began between his son - David II and Edward Balliol. David was able to keep the throne, but died childless. In 1371, Robert II of the Stuart dynasty was crowned and they ruled Scotland for the next three centuries.

In 1502, England and Scotland sign a peace treaty, which the Scots violated in 1512. In 1560, a peace treaty was concluded between the two countries, which put an end to three centuries of enmity. In 1603 King James VI of Scotland succeeded to the English throne. From this time begins the history of Scotland as part of the United Kingdom.


In the 18th - 19th century Scotland prospered thanks to trade. The industrial revolution turns the country into a major industrial and scientific center. Meanwhile, calls for autonomy are getting stronger. Industrial development affected, to a greater extent, only the southern part of the country. The north of Scotland lived in poverty, so many residents emigrated in search of a better life in the United States, Canada and Australia.

The industrial development of Scotland continued until the First World War. After the war, there was a serious decline, which intensified after the end of World War II. In the 20th century, Scottish industry was reoriented towards innovative and knowledge-intensive industries. In 1999 parliamentary elections were held, which emphasized the autonomy of the region. In 2014, a referendum on Scottish independence was held, against which more than half of the population voted.

Administrative division

Historically, Scotland was divided into counties, parishes, possessions, etc. The modern administrative division of the country is 32 districts. Only seven settlements have city status: Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Stirling, Perth and Inverness.


In regional terms, the territory of Scotland can be divided into:

  • Borderlands - the south-eastern part of Scotland, which is a rolling plain with beautiful old settlements, ruined abbeys and historical sites.
  • Southwest Scotland is a picturesque rocky coast of the Irish Sea.
  • Central Scotland is the most urbanized region of the country, where most of the population lives and a huge part of the cultural heritage is concentrated.
  • North East Scotland is a picturesque and diverse region led by Aberdeen from the Grampian Mountains to the sandy beaches of the North Sea.
  • The highlands of Scotland and the northwest coast are a harsh region with stunning nature and an authentic atmosphere.
  • Island groups: Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides.

Population

More than 80% of the population of Scotland are ethnic Scots. About 8% identify themselves as British. Other large diasporas: Irish, Poles, immigrants from Asian countries. In Scotland, they speak three languages ​​at once: English, Gaelic and Scottish. Most of the population professes Presbyterian Christianity, although there is a large proportion of Catholics.


The Scots are a very proud nation, so you should not talk about politics with them and draw parallels with England. They respect their history, desire for independence and are very annoyed by the nickname "Jock" or "Scotch". The Scots are restrained, stubborn, persistent, prudent and thrifty. They do not really like to express their feelings and from the outside can look gloomy and unfriendly. But this is only until the time when the Scot gets into the pub.

Transport

Transport Scheme of Scotland

The largest airports in Scotland:

  • Aberdeen airport. It has air links with the following cities: Alicante, Amsterdam, Dublin, Bergen, Copenhagen, Paris.
  • Edinburgh airport. Regular flights to the following cities: Abu Dhabi, Alicante, Barcelona, ​​Basel, Berlin, Bratislava, Dubrovnik, Dusseldorf, Gdansk, Geneva, Krakow, Lisbon, Lyon, Madrid, Prague, Paris, Vilnius, Marseille, Nice, Munich, New York, Milan, Venice, Rennes, Reykjavik, Rome, Zurich, Toulouse, Budapest.
  • Glasgow airports. They have flights with the following cities: Alicante, Amsterdam, Berlin, Calgary, Copenhagen, Heraklion, New York, Toronto, Paris, Philadelphia, Vancouver, Girona.

No Scottish airport (other than Prestwick in Glasgow) has rail access. To get to the city you need to use buses or taxi services.

The Scottish railway system is quite extensive and is part of the transport system of the United Kingdom. Most cities in the country can be reached by train from London, Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, York. It should also be noted that Scotland's railways are some of the most scenic in the world, so the trip can also be an aesthetic pleasure.


Buses are the cheapest way to travel in Scotland, but the least convenient. Also, the country is distinguished by a small number of highways. Many roads (especially in the northern part) are quite narrow.

Scotland cities


The status of a city (city) in Scotland has only seven settlements:

  • Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and its main cultural center. The city has a stunning historic center with an imposing medieval castle hovering above it on a high rocky peak and striking medieval gothic architecture juxtaposed with magnificent examples of modern construction.
  • Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland with typical Scottish charm and great architecture. This is an example of competent modern urban planning, when in the past a large industrial center was transformed into a popular tourist destination while preserving its historical appearance.
  • - the capital of Northern Scotland, the largest fishing port and the center of the offshore oil industry in Europe. The city is famous for its magnificent granite architecture.
  • Dundee is the fourth largest city in Scotland, located in the northeast of the country. It is a major educational and scientific center.
  • Inverness is Britain's northernmost city and the capital of the Highlands of Scotland.
  • Stirling is a royal walled city with a stunning castle.
  • Perth is an ancient royal city and the former residence of Scottish monarchs.

Sights of Scotland


Edinburgh Castle is one of the symbols of Scotland. The stone towers and walls of this structure have dominated Edinburgh since the 13th century. The castle is built on a picturesque basalt rock, houses stunning historical artifacts and offers breathtaking views of the Scottish capital. Below the castle is the famous Royal Mile - a historic street with many old brick buildings and attractions.


Loch Ness is one of the most beautiful and mysterious places in Scotland. This deep lake is world-famous for the stories of Nessie (the Loch Ness monster). The ruins of a 12th-century castle on the shore are the center of local legends and stories. The castle fell victim to fire five centuries after its foundation.


Stirling Castle is one of the most beautiful medieval castles in Scotland and a magnificent example of a Renaissance building. It has been carefully restored and furnished in the style of the late Middle Ages.


Glenfinnan is an arched railway viaduct. This marvelous engineering structure is widely known for the Harry Potter film series.


Cathedral of St. Joanna is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century. This cathedral is Edinburgh's most important religious building and has an interesting (slightly austere) façade. The most remarkable element of its structure is the central tower with eight arched pillars that form a kind of crown.

Cathedral of St. The Mungo is a medieval religious building and is the most significant historical monument in Glasgow. This imposing ancient building dates back to the 12th century and is a superb example of Scottish Gothic.


Cathedral of St. Mahara is one of the main symbols of Aberdeen and a great example of Scottish Gothic. This church was founded in the 6th century by the saint of the same name. Later, a settlement grew up around the Christian parish. The current cathedral was founded in 1136 and finally completed in 1552. The interior, for the most part, dates from the 14th century.

Beautiful castles in Scotland

Scotland is famous for its array of beautiful castles.


Balmoral is a magnificent Neo-Baroque Victorian castle which is the summer residence of the Queen of Great Britain. The castle was founded in the 15th century and rebuilt as a royal residence in the middle of the 19th century.


Craigievar Castle is a delightful 15th century medieval castle that belonged to the Mortimer family. It is a fabulous building with small towers crowned with conical roofs, gable gables and various decorative elements.


Calzea Castle is an opulent 18th century earl's castle in the southwest of Scotland.


Eilean Donan is a picturesque island with a 13th century castle that was built to protect against the Normans. Located at the junction of three lakes in the western part of the Scottish Highlands.

Dunrobin Castle is a majestic French Renaissance and Scottish Baroque castle. Built in the 19th century in the north of Scotland.


Tioram is a ruined medieval castle located on a picturesque lake in Western Scotland.


Cawdor is a medieval castle in the north of Scotland, built in the 15th century and mentioned in Shakespeare's tragedy Macbeth.

Accommodation

Scotland is a comparatively expensive country to live and travel. The most affordable accommodation option are hostels, which can be found in cities. If you are not afraid of difficulties and lack of amenities, then a great option is to stay at a campsite. Also in Scotland are very popular bed and breakfasts, which offer a great authentic and hospitable atmosphere. Such hotels can be found even in remote areas.


Kitchen

It is believed that Scottish cuisine is rather mediocre. This is not entirely true. Scottish dishes are simple, no frills, but hearty and tasty. Popular traditional food:

  • Cullen Skink is a hearty and delicious fish soup made from smoked fish with cream and potatoes.
  • Seafood: langoustines, oysters, scallops, crabs, salmon. In Scotland, Fish n Chips is a very popular dish - fried cod with french fries.
  • Scottish beef steak.
  • Pheasant baked with vegetables and a few strips of bacon.
  • Haggis is one of the most famous national dishes. It is a sheep's entrails (heart, liver and lungs), chopped and baked in the stomach of a sheep (now they often use special packages).
  • Scotch Pie is the famous Scottish meat pie.
  • Scotch Egg - hard boiled egg with sausage or ham.

Scotland (especially the highlands) is famous for hundreds of brands of Scotch whiskey. This drink is the pride of the Scots and one of the main souvenirs. Almost every Scottish village has its own brand. The second most popular alcoholic drink is beer (especially ale), which is measured in pints (0.568 liters). An extremely popular non-alcoholic drink is tea and Irn Bru.