Scotland Travel Information
Wherever you are coming from, travelling to Scotland is convenient and simple, with lots of travel options available. Once here, the country’s road, rail and ferry network provides good access to all regions and to our many great visitor destinations.
You can travel to Scotland seamlessly from the rest of the UK and from overseas, with regular road, rail, ferry and air links to Scotland’s incredible destinations.
When you arrive, you’ll find there is easy access to all regions, and with a little more careful planning, you can reach the beautiful yet more remote areas and islands.
Best time to Visit Scotland
The truth is, you can easily fall in love with Scotland at any time of the year. But which month is the best to visit? This question, which we are often asked here at VisitScotland, has 12 correct answers! Every month is unique, and so it depends entirely on what kind of trip you are looking for.
From seasonal highlights to events, weather to trips and days out ideas, this is our month-by-month guide to visiting Scotland. So let us help you find the perfect time for your holiday to Scotland.
Air Travel
Scotland has five international airports operating scheduled services to Europe, North America and Asia, as well as domestic services to England, Northern Ireland and Wales.
- Aberdeen Airport
- Edinburgh Airport
- Glasgow Airport
- Glasgow Prestwick Airport
- Inverness Airport
Highlands and Islands Airports operates eleven airports across the Highlands, Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles, which are primarily used for short distance, public service operations, although Inverness Airport has a number of scheduled flights to destinations across the UK and mainland Europe.
Edinburgh Airport is currently Scotland’s busiest airport handling over 13 million passengers in 2017.It is also the UK’s 6th busiest airport.
British Airways, easyJet, flybe, Jet2, and Ryanair operate the majority of flights between Scotland and other major UK and European airports.
Four airlines are based in Scotland:
- Directflight
- Hebridean Air Services
- Loch Lomond Seaplanes
- Loganair
Rail
Network Rail owns and operates the fixed infrastructure assets of the railway system in Scotland, while the Scottish Government retains overall responsibility for rail strategy and funding in Scotland.[420] Scotland’s rail network has 359 railway stations and around 1,710 miles (2,760 km) of track.[421] In 2018–19 there were 102 million passenger journeys on Scottish railways.
The East Coast and West Coast main railway lines connect the major cities and towns of Scotland with each other and with the rail network in England. London North Eastern Railway provides inter-city rail journeys between Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness to London. Domestic rail services within Scotland are operated by ScotRail. During the time of British Rail, the West Coast Main Line from London Euston to Glasgow Central was electrified in the early 1970s, followed by the East Coast Main Line in the late 1980s.
British Rail created the ScotRail brand. When British Rail existed, many railway lines in Strathclyde were electrified. Strathclyde Passenger Transport Executive was at the forefront with the acclaimed “largest electrified rail network outside London”. Some parts of the network are electrified, but there are no electrified lines in the Highlands, Angus, Aberdeenshire, the cities of Dundee or Aberdeen, or Perth & Kinross, and none of the islands has a rail link (although the railheads at Kyle of Lochalsh and Mallaig principally serve the islands).
The East Coast Main Line crosses the Firth of Forth by the Forth Bridge. Completed in 1890, this cantilever bridge has been described as “the one internationally recognised Scottish landmark”. page needed] Scotland’s rail network is managed by Transport Scotland.
Road
The Scottish motorways and major trunk roads are managed by Transport Scotland. The remainder of the road network is managed by the Scottish local authorities in each of their areas.
Ports
How many ports are there in Scotland?
What is the biggest port in Scotland?
What are the main ferry ports in Scotland?
- Ardrossan. View port.
- Armadale. View port.
- Ardmhor (Barra) View port.
- Berneray. View port.
- Brodick. View port.
- Campbeltown. View port.
- Canna. View port.
- Castlebay. View port.
Where do ferries go from Scotland?
Scotland Key Facts
Accommodation in Scotland
What are the best Hotels in Edinburgh near Edinburgh Castle?
Some of the best hotels in Edinburgh near Edinburgh Castle include Rose Apartment, Grassmarket Old Town Boutique Apartment and The Rutland Hotel & Apartments.
How much is a Hotel in Edinburgh for this weekend?
The average price per night for a 3-star hotel in Edinburgh this weekend is £172 or, for a 4-star hotel, £220. Looking for something even fancier? 5-star hotels in Edinburgh for this weekend cost on average around £308 per night (based on Booking.com prices).
What Hotels in Edinburgjh have nice views?
The Bonham, BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh and 24 Royal Terrace have received great reviews from travellers in Edinburgh regarding the views from their hotel rooms.
Which Hotels in Edinburgh are good for families?
Many families visiting Edinburgh loved staying at BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh, Hotel Ceilidh-Donia and Gleneagles Townhouse.
How much does it cost to stay in a Hiotel n Edinburgh?
On average, 3-star hotels in Edinburgh cost £70 per night, and 4-star hotels in Edinburgh are £85 per night. If you’re looking for something really special, a 5-star hotel in Edinburgh can on average be found for £169 per night (based on Booking.com prices).
Which Hotels in Edinburgh are good for couples?
These hotels in Edinburgh are highly rated by couples: BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh, Ocean Mist Leith and Hotel Ceilidh-Donia.
Which Hotels in Edinburgh are especially good for breakfast?
For hotels in Edinburgh that serve up a highly-rated breakfast, try Prestonfield House, 24 Royal Terrace and Hotel Ceilidh-Donia.
How much is a Hotel in Edinburgh for tonight?
On average, it costs £93 per night to book a 3-star hotel in Edinburgh for tonight. You’ll pay on average around £145 if you choose to stay in a 4-star hotel tonight, while a 5-star hotel in Edinburgh will cost around £274 (based on Booking.com prices).
Which Hotels in Edinburgh are near Edinburgh Airport?
Many families visiting Edinburgh loved staying at BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh, Hotel Ceilidh-Donia and Gleneagles Townhouse.
How much does it cost to stay in a Hotel in Glasgow?
On average, 3-star hotels in Glasgow cost £28 per night, and 4-star hotels in Glasgow are £45 per night. If you’re looking for something really special, a 5-star hotel in Glasgow can on average be found for £88 per night (based on Booking.com prices).
How much is a Hotel in Glasgow for this weekend?
The average price per night for a 3-star hotel in Glasgow this weekend is £123 or, for a 4-star hotel, £157. Looking for something even fancier? 5-star hotels in Glasgow for this weekend cost on average around £184 per night (based on Booking.com prices).
Which Hotels in Glasgow have nive views?
Radisson RED Hotel, Glasgow, Hilton Glasgow and The Pipers’ Tryst Hotel have received great reviews from travellers in Glasgow regarding the views from their hotel rooms.
Which Hotels in Glasgow are good for families?
Many families visiting Glasgow loved staying at Clayton Hotel Glasgow City, Dakota Glasgow and Grasshopper Hotel Glasgow.
Which Hotels in Glasgow are near Glasgow Airport?
Travellers who stayed in Glasgow near Glasgow Airport (GLA) have said good things about Holiday Inn Express – Glasgow Airport, an IHG Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow Airport and Ashtree House Hotel, Glasgow Airport & Paisley.
Book Hotels, Guest Houses & Villas in Scotland
Hotels in Scotland are spread around the State within the territory of 17.9 kilometers, while 66 hotels are located directly in the city center. We have 16 Guest Houses available to Book in Scotland, land and 66 Hotels listed available for Booking right now.
- Discount Hotels in Edinburgh
- Guest Houses in Livingston
- Bed and Breakfast in Dunbar
- Hostels in Glasgow
- Stirling Hotels with Restaurant
- Hotels in Inverness with Gym
- Perth, Scotland Hotels with Swimming Pool
- Spa Hotels in Glasgow, Scotland
- Pets Allowed Hotels in Glasgow, Scotland
Hotels in Scotland by City
We have listed Hotels in Scotland by Town and City, select a city in Scotland to view the latest Hotel Deals.
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
- Queensferry
- Livingston
- Dunbar
- Bathgate
- North Berwick
- Musstleburgh
- Linlithgow
- Haddington
- Lasswade
- Dalkeith
- Dunfermline
- Inverness
- Perth, Scotland
- Stirling
Hotels in Scotland by Hotel Name
We have listed Hotels in Scotland by Hotel Name, select a hotel in Scotland to view the latest Deals.
- Jurys Inn Glasgow
- Motel One Glasgow
- Euro Hostel Glasgow
- Ibis Budget Glasgow
- Yotel Edinburgh
- Britania Hotel Edinburgh
- Ibis Budget Hotel Edinburgh
- Mercure Aberdeen Caledonian Hotel
- Royal Athenaeum Suites
- Copthorne Aberdeen Hotel
Healthcare
Comprehensive free healthcare is available to all people living in Scotland. With our Government’s commitment to creating a healthier Scotland meaning your health is in very good hands.
Healthcare has long been a priority for Scotland, which is probably why we’ve pioneered so many incredible medical innovations that continue to improve people’s health and save lives to this day.
The National Health Service in Scotland (NHS Scotland) has been operating for more than 70 years, but the origins of an inclusive health service here stretch back more than a century. Way back in 1913, the Highlands and Islands Medical Service provided free treatment to a population covering more than half of Scotland’s landmass.
National Health Service
The NHS is free at the point of use for the patient though there are charges associated with eye tests, dental care, prescriptions, and many aspects of personal care.
The NHS provides the majority of healthcare in England, including primary care, in-patient care, long-term healthcare, ophthalmology and dentistry. The National Health Service Act 1946 came into effect on 5 July 1948. Private health care has continued parallel to the NHS, paid for largely by private insurance, but it is used by less than 8% of the population, and generally as a top-up to NHS services. Recently there have been some examples where unused private sector capacity has been used to increase NHS capacity and in some cases the NHS has commissioned the private sector to establish and run new facilities on a sub contracted basis. The involvement of the private sector remains relatively small and according to one survey by the BMA, a large proportion of the public oppose such involvement.
Crime
Crimes recorded by the police in Scotland decreased by 4%, from 299,452 to 286,464. This fall was driven by an 81% reduction in crimes recorded under Coronavirus related legislation (from 20,976 to 3,913). All other crimes collectively increased by 1%. The recording of crime is at the lowest level seen since 1974.
Non-sexual crimes of violence increased by 12%, from 61,913 to 69,286. This was driven by a rise in Common assault (also up 12%), which makes up the clear majority (84%) of all Non-sexual crimes of violence recorded in 2021-22.
Sexual crimes increased by 15%, from 13,131 to 15,049. These crimes are now at the highest level seen since 1971, the first year for which comparable groups are available.
Crimes of dishonesty increased by 4%, from 89,731 to 92,873. The recording of these crimes is at the second lowest level seen since 1971.
Damage and reckless behaviour crimes increased by 3%, from 42,964 to 44,284. The recording of these crimes is at the second lowest level seen since 1976.
Crimes against society decreased by 14% from 70,737 to 61,059. Most of these crimes relate to drug possession, crimes against public justice or handling offensive weapons.
Police recorded cyber-crime in Scotland:
This bulletin also includes an estimate of how many cyber-crimes (i.e. crimes committed using the internet) were recorded in Scotland during 2021-22.
In 2021-22, an estimated 14,280 cyber-crimes were recorded by the police in Scotland. This is similar to the estimated 14,860 cyber-crimes recorded in 2020-21, but a large increase compared to the estimated 7,710 cyber-crimes recorded in 2019-20. Part of this increase since 2019-20 may be due to the significant impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, including behavioural changes, such as increased online shopping.
We estimate that cyber-crimes accounted for over one-in-four Sexual crimes (28%) in 2021-22 and around one-in-ten Crimes of dishonesty (9%).
Tourism
Edinburgh is the capital city. The Old and New Towns of the city constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Edinburgh is the largest tourist destination in Scotland, and the second largest in the United Kingdom after London. The cities’ major tourist attractions include Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Zoo, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Our Dynamic Earth and the Royal Mile. It has four universities including the University of Edinburgh founded in 1583.
Glasgow is the largest city in the country, and the second largest tourist destination after Edinburgh. Its attractions include the Burrell Collection, Glasgow Cathedral, the Glasgow Science Centre and the Kelvingrove Museum. In addition to this many tourists come to Glasgow for its renowned Victorian architecture and Gothic architecture as well as its shopping. The city has three universities, including the University of Glasgow founded in 1451, and is a UNESCO City of Music which hosts the world renowned Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Royal Scottish National Orchestra.
Stirling is a historic city in central Scotland, some 30 miles to the north-west of Edinburgh, and is generally known as the “Gateway to the Highlands”, due to its geographical position between highland and lowland Scotland. Amongst its attractions are Stirling Castle, the Wallace National Monument and the Thieves
Pot/Thistles Centre.
Aberdeen is known as the “Granite City” and is renowned for its gothic architecture. It is a city of approximately 210,000 people and serves as the main administrative centre for the north-east of Scotland. With its large port and harbour, Aberdeen serves as the departure point for the many ferries that connect the Scottish mainland with the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland. Aberdeen also has two universities, and a large student population.
St Andrews is a small, but busy town in north-east Fife. The royal burgh’s economy is centred on the golf industry, with St Andrews being regarded as the home of the modern game. The University of St Andrews (the oldest in Scotland) has colleges located throughout the town and a small museum on the history of the University which is open to the public free of charge.
Dundee is known as the “City of Discovery” and is the home of V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first and only design museum. Dundee is also home to Scott of the Antarctic’s ship the RRS Discovery. Dundee has two universities. It has a Jute museum called Verdant Works, an Anchor Point of ERIH – The European Route of Industrial Heritage.
Perth is a small but historic city on the east coast, which stands on the River Tay. Perth is known for its abundant parkland. Close by is the village of Scone, ancient capital of Scotland and former home to Scottish kings.
Inverness is the administrative centre for the Highlands, close to Loch Ness and serves as a transport hub for much of the Highlands, with rail and bus services departing here to much of the northern and west Highlands. It is a popular destination for tourists wishing to explore the north of Scotland.
Ayrshire offers wonderful scenery, outdoor activities, enthralling history with links to William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Scotland’s best known poet, Robert Burns. Ayrshire also offers some of the finest golf courses in the world (32 in total). North Ayrshire hosts Kelburn Castle which is famous for its Graffiti Project.
Other areas which are popular for tourists include the Highlands and the Hebrides, such as the Isle of Skye. Perthshire, the Scottish Borders and Orkney and Shetland are also popular tourism destinations.
Towns & Cities in Scotland
| Rank | Locality | Population | Status | Council area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glasgow | 632,350 | City | Glasgow City |
| 2 | Edinburgh | 506,520 | City | City of Edinburgh |
| 3 | Aberdeen | 198,590 | City | Aberdeen City |
| 4 | Dundee | 148,210 | City | Dundee City |
| 5 | Paisley | 77,270 | Town[3] | Renfrewshire |
| 6 | East Kilbride | 75,310 | Town | South Lanarkshire |
| 7 | Livingston | 56,840 | Town | West Lohian |
| 8 | Dunfemline | 54,990 | City[4] | Fife |
| 9 | Hamilton | 54,480 | Town | South Lanarkshire |
| 10 | Cumbernauld | 50,530 | Town | North Lanarkshire |
| 11 | Kirkcaldy | 50,370 | Town | Fife |
| 12 | Inverness | 47,790 | City | Highland |
| 13 | Perth | 47,350 | City[5] | Perth and Kinross |
| 14 | Kilmarnock | 46,970 | Town | East Ayrshire |
| 15 | Dumfries | 46,500 | Town | Dumfries and Galloway |
| 16 | Ayr | 46,260 | Town | South Ayrshire |
| 17 | Coatbridge | 43,950 | Town | North Lanarkshire |
| 18 | Greenock | 41,280 | Town | Inverclde |
| 19 | Glenrothes | 38,360 | Town | Fife |
| 20 | Stirling | 37,910 | City | Stirling |
| 21 | Airdrie | 36,390 | Town | North Lanarkshire |
| 22 | Falkirk | 35,590 | Town | Falkirk |
| 23 | Irvine | 34,130 | Town | North Ayrhire |
| 24 | Motherwell | 32,840 | Town | North Lanarkshire |
| 25 | Rutherglen | 30,950 | Town | South Lanarkshire |
| 26 | Cambuslang | 30,790 | Town | South Lanarkshire |
| 27 | Wishaw | 30,050 | Town | North Lanarkshire |
| 28 | Bearsden | 28,470 | Town | East Dunbartonshire |
| 29 | Newton Mearns | 28,210 | Town | East Renfrewshire |
| 30 | Clydebank | 25,620 | Town | West Dunbartonshire |
| 31 | Elgin | 25,040 | Town[3] | Moray |
| 32 | Renfrew | 24,270 | Town | Renfrewshire |
| 33 | Bishopbriggs | 23,680 | Town | East Dunbartonshire |
| 34 | Bathgate | 23,600 | Town | West Lothian |
| 35 | Arbroath | 23,500 | Town | Angus |
| 36 | Kirkintilloch | 21,870 | Town | East Dunbartonshire |
| 37 | Musselburgh | 21,100 | Town | East Lothian |
| 38 | Dubarton | 20,480 | Town | West Dunbartonshire |
| 39 | Bellshill | 19,700 | Town | North Lanarkshire |
| 40 | Peterhead | 19,060 | Town | Aberdeenshire |
| 41 | St Andrews | 18,410 | Town | Fife |
| 42 | Bonnyrigg | 18,320 | Town | Midlothian |
| 43 | Barrhead | 17,890 | Town | East Renfrewshire |
| 44 | Blantyre | 16,800 | Town | South Lanarkshire |
| 45 | Penicuik | 16,150 | Town | Midlothian |
| 46 | Grangemouth | 16,120 | Town | Falkirk |
| 47 | Kilwinning | 16,100 | Town | North Ayrshire |
| 48 | Broxburn | 15,970 | Town | West Lothian |
| 49 | Johnstone | 15,930 | Town | Renfrewshire |
| 50 | Viewpark | 15,830 | Town | North Lanarkshire |
| 51 | Larkhall | 15,030 | Town | South Lanarkshire |
| 52 | Erskine | 15,010 | Town | Renfrewshire |
Museums and Galleries in Scotland
Museums are an important aspect of Scottish culture, and most cities and towns have a few museums and art galleries.
Some of the most visited places are:
- Aberdeen Art Gallery
- Aberdeen Arts Centre
- Aberdeen Maritime Museum
- Gordon Highlanders Museum
- King’s Museum
- Tolbooth Museum
- Aberdeenshire Farming Museum
- Alford Heritage Museum
- Alford Valley Railway
- Arbuthnot Museum
- Banchory Museum
- Banff Museum
- Blairs Museum
- Grampian Transport Museum
- Insch Connection Museum
- Little Treasures: Grampian Toy Museum
- Museum of Scottish Lighthouses
- Peterhead Prison Museum
- Brechin Town House Museum
- Glenesk Folk Museum
- Kirriemuir Gateway to the Glens Museum
- Meffan Museum and Art Gallery
- Montrose Museum
- Signal Tower Museum
- Auchindrain Township Museum
- Castle House Museum
- Easdale Island Folk Museum
- Inverarary Maritime Heritage Museum
- Kilmartin Museum
- Mull Museum
- Museum of Islay Life Port Charlotte
- Oban War and Peace Museum
- Sandaig Island Life Museum
- Slate Islands Heritage Centre and Museum
- Strachur Smiddy Museum
- Dollar Museum
- Annan Museum
- Creetown Gem Rock Museum
- The Devil’s Porridge Museum
- Dumfries Museum
- Dumfries and Galloway Aviation Museum
- John Paul Jones Cottage Museum
- Museum of Lead Mining
- Old Bridge House Museum
- Sanquhar Tolbooth Museum
- Savings Banks Museum
- Stewartry Museum
- Stranraer Museum
- The Museum, Newton Stewart
- Whithorn Priory and Museum
- D’Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum
- Dundee Museum of Transport
- Baird Museum
- Boswell Museum & Mausoleum
- Doon Valley Museum
- Auld Kirk Museum
- Coastal Communities Museum
- Dunbar Town House Museum
- Musselburgh Museum
- Myreton Motor Museum
- National Museum of Flight
- Prestongrange Industrial Heritage Museum
- Museum of Childhood (Edinburgh)
- Museum of Edinburgh
- Museum on the Mound
- National Museum of Scotland
- National War Museum of Scotland
- People’s Story Museum
- Queensferry Museum
- Surgeons’ Hall Museum
- Writers’ Museum
- Grangemouth Museum
- Museum of Scottish Railways
- Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
- Bell Pettigrew Museum at the University of St Andrews
- British Golf Museum
- Buckhaven Museum
- Burntisland Museum
- Crail Museum & Heritage Centre
- Fife Folk Museum
- John McDouall Stuart Museum
- Laing Museum
- Museum of Communication, Scotland
- Wardlaw Museum at University of St Andrews
- Scottish Fisheries Museum
- Scottish Vintage Bus Museum
- St Andrews Museum
- St Andrews Preservation Trust Museum
- 602 Squadron Museum
- Glasgow Police Museum
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- National Piping Center – Museum of Piping
- Riverside Museum
- Royal Highland Fusiliers Museum
- Scotland Street School Museum
- Scottish Football Museum
- St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art
- Clan Cameron Museum
- Clan Macpherson Museum
- Colbost Croft Museum
- Commando Museum
- Cromarty Courthouse Museum
- Dingwall Museum
- Dornoch Historylinks Museum
- Gairloch Heritage Museum
- Giant MacAskill Museum
- Glendale Toy Museum
- Glenfinnan Station Museum
- Grantown Museum
- Groam House Museum
- Highland Folk Museum
- Highland Museum of Childhood
- Highlanders Museum
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
- Laidhay Croft Museum
World Heritage Sites in Scotland
Scotland currently has six World Heritage Sites.-
The Antonine Wall
The Antonine Wall runs across central Scotland and marked the most northerly – and most complex – frontier of the Roman Empire nearly 2,000 years ago. Roman soldiers built the Antonine Wall for the Emperor Antoninus Pius around AD 142. Their efforts are commemorated by a unique group of distance slabs.
Find out more about the Antonine Wall.
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
Skara Brae, Maeshowe, the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar together make up one of the richest surviving Neolithic landscapes in Western Europe. Their impressive domestic and ritual monuments are masterpieces of Neolithic design and construction. They give us exceptional insights into the society, skills and spiritual beliefs of the people who built them.
Read more about the Heart of Neolithic Orkney.
New Lanark
New Lanark is a restored 18th-century cotton mill village situated in the narrow gorge of the River Clyde. Social pioneer Robert Owen was renowned for his enlightened management of the mill – the biggest cotton mill in Scotland and one of the largest factory sites in the world.
Find out more about New Lanark.
The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns form one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world. The city’s unique character springs from the contrast between the medieval Old Town, with its pattern of distinctive narrow passageways, and the 18th-century New Town, the best-preserved example of Georgian town planning in the UK.
Learn more about the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh.
St Kilda
St Kilda is a group of remote islands and sea stacks 100 miles off the west coast of Scotland. They host the largest colony of seabirds in Europe as well as unique populations of sheep, field mice and wrens. Evocative cultural remains chart some 4,000 years of human habitation up until the mass evacuation of the islands in 1930.
Find out more about St Kilda.
The Forth Bridge
The Forth Bridge is a 2.5km-long, 110m-high cantilever bridge that links Edinburgh and the Lothians in the south with Fife and the Highlands in the north. The building of this masterpiece of human creative genius conquered a natural barrier of a scale and depth that had never before been overcome by humans.
Read more about the Forth Bridge.
Travel Requirements
If you live in Scotland and you’re travelling abroad
Even though Scotland’s rules have ended, other countries may still have travel rules beyond 18 March 2022. If you live in Scotland, you should check GOV.UK’s foreign travel advice for every country you’re planning to visit.
If you need to prove which vaccinations you’ve had when you arrive in another country, you can normally use your NHS Scotland COVID Status app to do this.
If you’re visiting Scotland from another country
If you’re visiting Scotland from another country, normal travel rules apply. This means that you do not need to complete a Passenger Locator Form, take any COVID-19 tests or self-isolate after you arrive.
When returning home or travelling to other countries outside Scotland, you should check your own government’s travel advice for further help. Even though Scotland does not have COVID-19 travel rules, other countries may.
Future changes to travel advice
New COVID-19 travel rules in Scotland, or any other country, may be brought in at short notice. You should always check the latest advice for each country you’re planning to travel to before booking your trip and before you go.
Contact
Central Enquiry Unit
Email: ceu@gov.scot
Phone: 0300 244 4000
How to stay safe while in the UK and on Public Transport
Travel provider and transport hub rules
Your travel provider, or the transport hub you travel through, may have COVID-19 rules in place. For example they may require or advise you to wear a face covering.
You should follow any COVID-19 rules and guidance from:
- your travel provider – airline, ferry, coach or train company
- the transport venue – airport, port, coach or railway station
Red list countries and territories
There are currently no red list restrictions in place for travel to England.
Covid Information
Most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures can be imposed suddenly and may include:
- entry or exit bans
- quarantine
- mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
- suspensions or reductions of international transportation options
Foreign authorities might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.
Before travelling:
- verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation
- consider even your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
- monitor the media for the latest information
- reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator
The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.
Useful links
- Travel restrictions and health requirements – United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the British authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Check your Passport and Travel Documents before you travel
Check how long it will take to get a passport before you apply.
If you need a passport urgently, you can find out more about the Online Premium or 1 week Fast Track services.
Do not book travel until you have a valid passport – your new passport will not have the same number as your old one.
What is a passport?
A passport is a travel document that serves as the ultimate form of proof for your citizenship. Every country issues passports to citizens of that country. British Citizen passports are issued by the United Kingdom Identity & Passport Service (IPS). UK passports come in two sizes to accommodate frequent travellers, jumbo and regular. Jumbo passports contain 48 pages while regular passports contain 32 pages.
Do I need a passport?
British citizens require passports to exit and enter the UK and all other countries in the world. It is your responsibility to carry the correct identification while travelling abroad.
Do British Subjects have the same rights of entry to other countries as a British Citizen passport?
No. British Subject passport holders have different entry requirements than British Citizen passport holders. If you hold one of these passports and require information on passports and visas, email info@uk.visacentral.comfor further information.
How does VisaCentral obtain a passport for me?
VisaCentral provides passport services for UK citizens by submitting proper documentation on your behalf to the UK Identity & Passport Service (IPS). This eliminates the need for you to visit, communicate, and correspond directly with the IPS. Please go to Passports to see the full range of passport services VisaCentral provides. For citizens of any other country residing in the UK, please consult your home country’s local consular office for passport details.
How long is my passport valid?
If your passport was issued when you were 16 years of age or older, your passport is valid for 10 years. If your passport was issued when you were 15 years of age or younger, your passport is valid for 5 years.
When applying for a passport renewal, will my old passport be returned to me?
Yes, your old passport will be returned unless it is deemed to be damaged by the UK Identity & Passport Service (IPS). The passport will clearly indicate that it is invalid and it is important that you advise whether any valid visas remain in the passport before applying for it to be renewed.
How long must my passport be valid for international travel?
Most countries require that a passport be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of a trip. If your passport expires sooner than that, you must apply to renew your passport. Go to Visas to determine how long a passport must be valid for each specific country of travel. In the event that your passport is set to expire go to Renew Passport and get started.
Can VisaCentral obtain additional passport pages for my passport?
No. You must apply for another passport. Go to Renew Passport for details.
How many blank passport pages do I need to meet entrance requirements and what is considered a ‘blank’ passport page?
Passports must have enough blank pages to accommodate entry and exit immigration stamps for each country of travel. At least one visa page in your passport is required for each visa. Most travel visas that are stamped into your passport require an entire blank visa page. A ‘blank’ visa page must be clean, clear, and not show ink or stains from any other pages in the passport.
I am recently married or divorced and have changed my name. Can VisaCentral help me change my name on my passport?
With proper documentation, you are able to change the name listed in your passport. VisaCentral can assist you in this process by submitting the necessary documents on your behalf. Visit Passport Name Change for details.
Can VisaCentral replace my lost or stolen passport?
With correct documentation, VisaCentral can replace your lost or stolen passport in as little as a day. Visit Lost or Stolen Passports for details.
Do my children require passports?
Yes. Each individual citizen, including infants, must possess his or her own passport. You are not allowed to represent other members of the family inside your passport. VisaCentral can assist you if you need to get a new child passport or if you need to renew a child’s passport. Visit Child Passport to learn about passport requirements for children.
How old must my children be to apply for a Child Passport?
Your children must be 15 years old or younger to apply for a Child Passport. Visit Child Passport to learn about passport requirements for children under the age of 15.
How long will it take VisaCentral to process my passport?
For most passport services VisaCentral has one processing time: Fast Track – 6 working days. Visit Passports to determine the passport processing time for the type of passport you are looking for.
What mailing method does VisaCentral recommend for submitting my completed VisaCentral Application Pack?
VisaCentral recommends using Royal Mail Special Delivery or other traceable methods of delivery when submitting your completed VisaCentral Application Pack.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) aren’t valid for entry into the USA or transit through the USA on an ESTA. If you’re planning to enter or transit through the USA using an ETD, you must apply for a visa from the nearest US embassy or consulate before you travel, which may take a number of days, or hold a valid lawful permanent resident card (often referred to as a ‘green card’), which you must have with you on arrival. UK ETDs issued in the USA are valid for exit from the USA.
Visa Requirements
You may need a visa to come to the UK to study, work, visit or join family.
There are different visas depending on:
- where you come from
- why you want to come to the UK
- how long you want to stay for
- your personal circumstances and skills
Before you apply, you must check if you need a visa and what type you need. Depending on your nationality, you might not need a visa to visit or transit through the UK.
Your application must be approved before you travel.
You do not need to apply for a visa if you’re an Irish citizen.
If you’re from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein
If you or your family member started living in the UK by 31 December 2020, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme instead of applying for a visa.
The deadline to apply was 30 June 2021 for most people. You can still apply if either:
- you have a later deadline – for example, you’re joining a family member in the UK who was living in the UK by 31 December 2020
- you have ‘reasonable grounds’ for being unable to apply by 30 June 2021 – for example, you had an illness, or were the victim of domestic abuse
Check if you can still apply to the EU Settlement Scheme.
If you want to visit the UK
Apply for a Standard Visitor visa to visit the UK for up to 6 months. For example:
- for a holiday or to see family and friends
- for a business trip or meeting
- to do a short course of study
You must apply for a Marriage Visitor visa if you want to visit the UK to get married or register a civil partnership.
If you have a visitor visa you cannot take a job in the UK.
If you’re travelling through the UK
You might need a visa if you’re travelling through the UK on your way to another country, for example if you have a layover between flights.
Apply for a visa to travel through the UK.
If you want to study in the UK
Your course length, type and place of study affect which visa to apply for.
A Standard Visitor visa lets you do a short course of study that lasts no longer than 6 months.
A Short-term study visa lets you come to the UK to study an English language course that is over 6 months and up to 11 months.
A Student visa is usually for a longer course. You must be sponsored by a licensed college or university and have a confirmed place. You may be able to do some work on this visa.
A Child Student visa is for 4 to 17 year olds who want to study at an independent school. If you’re 16 or over, you can do some work on this visa.
If you want to work in the UK
You can work in the UK on a short or long-term basis with a work visa. There are many types of work visa.
The visa you need depends upon:
- your skills and qualifications
- if you have a job offer and sponsorship
- if you want to bring your family with you
- what you’ll be doing – for example sporting, charitable or religious work
You can set up a business with a Start-up visa or an Innovator visa.
If you want to join family in the UK
If you’re a spouse, partner or family member of someone who has British citizenship or settlement in the UK, you can apply for a family visa to join them. They may need to show that they can support you financially.
You may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after a set amount of time living in the UK.
If your family member is in the UK on a visa
You may be able to apply for a visa to join a family member who’s in the UK on a visa. They must be either:
- your spouse or partner
- your parent if you’re 18 or under
Check what visa you’ll need to join them.
If your family member is from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein
You can apply for a free family permit if you have a close family member who was living in the UK by 31 December 2020. A family permit lets you live, work and study in the UK for up to 6 months.
Close family members include your spouse or civil partner, child, grandchild, parent or grandparent.
You can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme after your family permit expires.
Family reunion visas for refugees
If you were separated from your partner or child when you were forced to leave your country, they can apply to join you in the UK.
Your family members can apply if you have been given asylum or 5 years’ humanitarian protection, and not have British citizenship.
Other ways to get permission to live in the UK
Commonwealth citizens
You can apply for an Ancestry visa to work in the UK if you have a British grandparent and meet other eligibility criteria.
You may have right of abode to live in the UK.
If you’re a Commonwealth citizen and cannot prove your right to be in the UK, read about the Windrush scheme.
Returning residents
If you had indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and left the UK for more than 2 years you’ll need to apply for a Returning Resident visa to come back.
Other visas
There may be another visa that’s right for you based on your circumstances. Check if you need a visa and what other visas you’re eligible for.
Healthcare
- Stay up to date with public health guidance and confirm coverage with your insurance provider.
- Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.
- Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance.
- The standard of medical facilities in the UK is good.
- We have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK. Some GP and hospital treatments are free if you’re in the UK for a short visit. If you’re staying more than 6 months, you’ll pay a surcharge when you apply for your visa.
Bringing Medicines into Scotland, UK
You need to prove your medicine is prescribed to you if:
- it contains a ‘controlled drug’
- you have it on you when you’re entering the UK
What sort of proof you need depends on the category of drug and how much of it you’re bringing in.
If you’re leaving the UK with medicine that contains a controlled drug, check with the embassy about the rules for the country you’re going to before you travel.
Check if your medicine contains a controlled drug
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether your medicine contains a controlled drug.
You can also check the drugs listed on the packaging of your medicine and search for them on the controlled drugs list. The list does not give names of medicines, only drugs that are used in medicines.
If it contains a drug listed as schedule 2, 3 or 4 (part 1)
When entering the UK, you need to either:
- carry a letter of proof that the medicine was prescribed to you
- get a personal licence if you’re travelling in the UK for at least 3 months or carrying enough of the medicine to last you that long
If you’re a UK resident who has been prescribed this medicine abroad, you must also contact the Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit.
Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit
dflu.ie@homeoffice.gov.uk
Telephone: 020 7035 6330
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Find out about call charges
If it contains a drug listed as schedule 4 (part 2)
To make sure your medicine does not get taken away from you at the border, carry a letter of proof that the medicine was prescribed to you.
If it contains a drug listed as schedule 1
You must contact the Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit before you travel to the UK.
If you need a letter of proof
You need to get the letter from the person who prescribed your medicine. You might need to show this at the border.
The letter must include:
- your name
- what countries you’re going to and when
- a list of your medicine, including how much you have, doses and the strength
- the signature of the person who prescribed your drugs
If you need a personal licence
Email dflu.ie@homeoffice.gov.uk to ask for an application form. Include in your message your full intended travel details and reason for visit, as well as your UK address.
Before emailing, you should also:
- know the details of your medicine, including dose, strength and quantity
- have a letter from your doctor including their professional registration number
Apply at least 15 working days before you’re due to travel.
For further details, read more about personal licences.
Weather
What is the coldest month in Scotland?
Travel Safety
- You should exercise common sense and look out for suspicious behaviour, as you would in Australia.
- International terrorists have staged attacks in the UK. The UK Government’s terrorism threat level is “substantial”, meaning it assesses an attack is likely. Islamic extremism, extreme right-wing ideology and the status of Northern Ireland contribute to the threat. Always be alert to terrorism. Take official warnings seriously.
- Avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence. Monitor the media for information and updates. Follow the instructions of local authorities.
- Petty crime occurs. Beware of pickpockets in tourist areas, at restaurants and bars, and on transport. Take care when using ATMs and credit cards.
- There have been incidents of spiking and acid attacks across the UK. Be alert.
Foreign travel checklist
Read our foreign travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe while you’re there.
Tours in Central Scotland
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
What are the best tours in Central Scotland?
The best tours in Central Scotland according to Viator travelers are:
- Whisky Distillery Trifecta – Macallan – Glenfiddich – Glenlivet – Private Tour
- Speyside Whisky Tour – Three Distilleries Included – Private – 5 Star Reviews
- The Big Whisky Tasting Tour – Private Whisky Day Trip
- Edinburgh Whisky Tour – Whisky Tasting and Distillery Tours – Full Day
- Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Tour from Balloch
What tours in Central Scotland are taking additional safety precautions?
These Central Scotland experiences are providing additional COVID-19 safety measures:
- Speyside Whisky Tour – Three Distilleries Included – Private – 5 Star Reviews
- The Big Whisky Tasting Tour – Private Whisky Day Trip
- Edinburgh Whisky Tour – Whisky Tasting and Distillery Tours – Full Day
- Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Tour from Balloch
- White Water Rafting on the River Tay from Aberfeldy
tours in Central Scotland are good for avoiding crowds?
These hidden gems in Central Scotland may have limited interaction with crowds:
- Speyside Whisky Tour – Three Distilleries Included – Private – 5 Star Reviews
- Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Tour from Balloch
- White Water Rafting on the River Tay from Aberfeldy
- Canyoning Half-Day Trip at Keltneyburn from Aberfeldy
- River Bugging on the River Tummel Half-Day Trip in Pitlochry