Whether you are taking in the magnificent scenery on the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, monster hunting at Loch Ness, or immersing yourself in the history and stunning architecture of Edinburgh, you’ll be blown away by Scotland. Millions of tourists visit the country of tartan and bagpipes every year, seeking thrills, relaxation, and culture. If you haven’t yet paid a visit to the nation that shares a border with England to the north of the United Kingdom, that’s something you should remedy.
There’s more than enough going on to keep you busy on a short city break to Glasgow – Scotland’s biggest city – Edinburgh – the nation’s capital, complete with a castle and the crown jewels – or Dundee – known as the City of Discovery. Perhaps you have a little more time on your hands and would prefer to relax, stroll the streets, travel the highways, and really get to know the friendly people. There’s something for everyone, and Scotland is waiting to welcome you with open arms.
Gaze at the scenery or walk one of the famous mountains, such as Ben Nevis. Enjoy watersports or take a picnic in one of the many tranquil parks. You won’t be stuck for things to do during the day before Scotland comes alive in the evening. Enjoy the drama of a play at one of the many city Las Vegas style casinos, take in a soccer match at Ibrox, or dance the night away. Scotland’s got you.
Work Up an Appetite
However you choose to spend your time in this historic yet modern and forward-thinking nation, one thing’s for sure, you will work up quite the appetite. Diners are spoiled for choice with famous restaurants and hidden gems scattered the length and breadth of the land, but what’s good about Scottish cuisine? It’s it all haggis and deep-fried food? Well, there is a lot of that, and the locals seem to love nothing more than greasy chips and battered sausages from their favorite chip shop, but there’s much more going on.
Below we list three dishes we think will complete your trip. These are readily available, and just like other dishes, it’s often the case that the better the restaurant, the higher quality the meal will be. That’s not always the case, of course, and many independent diners will give even the biggest name chefs a run for their money at a fraction of the price. Shop around and find the best deals before committing.
Scotch Broth
The name probably gives this one away, but Scotch Broth is a traditional Scottish dish with a modern twist, dragged into the 21st century to appeal to the pallet of today’s diners. You can purchase tinned Scotch Broth in just about every store or supermarket in the UK, but it always tastes better fresh from the chef’s kitchen.
Scotch Broth is a thick soup made with barley, lamb, or mutton, usually the former these days as opposed to the latter used 100 years ago, then it’s packed with root vegetables. A healthy, filling, tasty and affordable dish.
Smoked Salmon
Is there anything more Scottish than a lovely piece of smoked salmon caught in one of the many deep lochs and rivers? The Scottish salmon really has to be tried to be believed, and although it may seem a tad pricey in places, you are paying for quality.
Farmed salmon is cheaper but much less delicious and lacks many of the natural health benefits of eating wild and locally sourced salmon. You can even buy a day fishing permit for one of the salmon hotspots and try catching one for yourself. Land a tasty salmon, and you won’t be short of people wanting to cook it for you.
Cranachan
Wow. That’s all we can really say about the Scottish dessert cranachan, another you must taste during your stay. Yes, you can buy this dessert in the shop or even overseas – Scottish food products are exported and sold worldwide – but, again, fresh is best.
Cranachan consists of cream, fresh Scottish raspberries specially selected from local growers, oats, and – you guessed it – whisky. It’s a real crowd pleaser with the fruit freshest in late summer, which helps add to this morish pudding.
