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Travelling to Scotland

Andy Lelieveld
Apr 23, 20167 min read

Updated: Jan 24, 2020

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.



SCOTLAND'S WEATHER & CLIMATE


We've all heard plenty of jokes about the Scottish weather - but most of them aren't true! Scotland's climate is actually quite moderate and very changeable, although on occasion we get really hot or really cold weather. As the old Scottish saying goes, 'there's no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes!'

Despite being a relatively small country, one of the most surprising things about the Scottish climate is just how much it varies from one region to another. It's often the case that you can drive for 20 minutes and find that the conditions are completely different. The unpredictable nature of the climate means it's not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day!


SPRING

You can expect average maximum temperatures to range from approximately 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F) during the months of March, April and May. A beautiful time to visit, this season sees daffodils, bluebells, cherry blossom and rhododendrons bursting into bloom. With sprightly wildlife and a milder breeze in the air, there's plenty of activities to enjoy. Even if you do experience an April shower or two, there is a fantastic range of galleries, museums and other attractions to keep you entertained all year-round, regardless of the weather. Why not come for an Easter break?



SUMMER

June, July and August are normally the warmest months in Scotland, with average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). Scotland's high latitude means that we enjoy lovely long summer days and often an extended twilight. In the north of the country, Lerwick in Shetland has about four hours more daylight at midsummer than London. At this time of year there is actually no complete darkness in the far north of Scotland. And, with the extra hours of daylight, you can pack a lot into your summer holiday. Round of golf at midnight, anyone?  





AUTUMN

In the Autumn (or Fall), Scotland is likely to experience temperatures ranging from around 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F) from September to November. The colours of autumn are eye-catching and vibrant, as the trees change from green to fiery reds, oranges and yellows. It's a perfect time of year to snap some photographs as you take an invigorating autumn amble through the forest. 


WINTER

December, January and February are generally the coldest months in Scotland, with the average maximum temperature usually around 5°C (41°F). The average number of days with snow falling in Scotland ranges from 15 to 20 days. However, the peaks and mountains of the Highlands experience around 100 days of falling snow. The snowsports season varies each year, but generally it runs from November to April. Scotland's five ski centres provide some of the best value snowboarding and skiing in Europe.



DRIVING IN SCOTLAND


Driving around Scotland is a great way to explore. You can set your own pace and stop off wherever takes your fancy.

Whether you choose to hire a car or bring your own, you’ll never forget the magical scenery you pass through as you travel Scotland by car.

But before you get going, you need to know the Scottish driving laws and regulations before you hit the open road. Read on for FAQs on driving in Scotland and essential driving in Scotland tips.



WHAT SIDE OF THE ROAD DO I DRIVE ON IN SCOTLAND?

Always drive on the left hand side of the road.


WHAT IS THE SPEED LIMIT IN SCOTLAND?

Speed limits are often signposted - look out for a circular sign, with a red border and number (in miles per hour). If there's no signpost, national speed limits apply. These are:


MOTORWAYS

70 mph (112 km/h) for cars.60 mph (96 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.


DUAL CARRIAGEWAYS

70 mph (112 km/h) for cars.60 mph (96 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.


BUILT-UP AREAS

30 mph (48 km/h)Be aware though, it's quite common around residential areas and particularly near schools, for a clearly signposted 20 mph (32 km/h) maximum speed limit.


OUTSIDE BUILT-UP AREAS

60 mph (96 km/h) for cars50 mph (80 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.

Find out information about speed limits for all types of vehicle.



WHAT LICENCE DO I NEED TO DRIVE IN SCOTLAND?

If you're coming from a European Union country - as long as you have a valid licence, you can drive any type of vehicle listed on your license in Scotland.If you're coming from outside the EU - as long as you have a valid licence from your own country, you can drive any small vehicle (eg car or motorcycle) in the UK for up to 12 months.


WHAT IS THE DRINK DRIVE LIMIT IN SCOTLAND?

Driving under the influence of alcohol is taken very seriously in Scotland and the UK and there can be heavy penalties for those found to be above the legal blood/alcohol limit.

As of 5 December 2014, the legal limit has been lowered to 50 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of blood (from 80 mg of alcohol).

Read more about the drink-drive limit in Scotland.






WHAT INSURANCE AND REGISTRATION DO I NEED?

If you're bringing your own car, you'll need:

Vehicle registration or ownership documents with you at all times.Insurance - every driver on the road in Scotland must have at least third-party insurance cover.If you're going to be here for more than six months (during a 12 month period), you'll need to be aware of rules on number plates that have symbols not used in the UK.


WHERE CAN I HIRE A CAR OR CAMPERVAN?

There are a number of companies to hire a car from in Scotland - or you can hire a campervan, motorhome or caravan.

See more car and vehicle hire companies in Scotland. You can also find advice on what to check when hiring a car with advice from Trading Standards Scotland.


IS THERE A MINIMUM AGE OR AN AGE LIMIT FOR HIRING A CAR IN SCOTLAND?

The age limit for hiring a car in Scotland is determined by the individual car hire companies/insurance providers and can vary from company to company.

Please contact us directly for more information about this.


WHAT ARE THE MOST SCENIC DRIVING ROUTES IN SCOTLAND?

There’s beautiful scenery to explore wherever you visit in Scotland.

Pass farmland, woodland and rolling hills in the south and east, see towering mountains stretching above you in the rugged west and north and stop to wander along paradise beaches on Scotland’s islands.

Here’s some driving inspiration to help you choose where you want to go:






HOW DO I PLAN MY DRIVING ROUTE AROUND SCOTLAND?

Find things to do along Scotland’s 12 national tourist routes and the North Coast 500 in our road trips guide.

Plan your own road trip using:


HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO DRIVE AROUND SCOTLAND?

You could spend as long as you like exploring Scotland. Scotland is a relatively small country so it shouldn’t take you too long to travel between destinations, and there will be lots of great places to stop and visit en route.

Check out our itineraries for inspiration.


WHERE CAN I FIND A PETROL STATION ON MY DRIVING ROUTE?

In the cities, you'll often find 24-hour access at fuel stations. In the countryside, there are fewer fuel stations, so it's best to keep your vehicle topped up if travelling in remote areas.

Petrol stations provide unleaded petrol and diesel. Fuel is priced by the litre.


WHERE CAN I FIND AN ELECTRIC CAR CHARGE POINT OR LPG FILLING STATION?


WHAT IS IT LIKE DRIVING IN WINTER IN SCOTLAND?

Scotland’s coldest months tend to be December, January and February, when the average maximum temperature reaches around 5°C (41°F). Freezing temperatures are common during the winter and snow falls during 15 to 20 days on average.

If you’re you planning on driving in the winter months it’s best to be prepared:

Find information on winter driving.Check the weather forecast before setting off.Find public transport options using Traveline Scotland.Read more frequently asked questions about winter in Scotland.





WHERE CAN I FIND INFORMATION ON PARKING?

Find out more information on:



OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION


OTHER RULES

Seatbelts are compulsory for all drivers and passengers in the vehicle.It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. You must also have proper control while using hands-free.Children under 12 who are under 135 cm (4 ft 5 in) tall should use a child seat appropriate for their weight. You can order one through the hire company.

Find out more information on driver responsibilities and the law.


DRIVING HAZARDS TO LOOK OUT FOR

You might encounter some farm animals or wildlife on rural roads so always take care.You should always look and listen out for ambulances, fire engines, police, doctors or other emergency vehicles using flashing blue, red or green lights and sirens or flashing headlights.You can test your knowledge of the Highway Code by trying this interactive road safety quiz.


ROUNDABOUTS, ROADS AND BRIDGES

Roundabouts are common in Scotland. Give way to vehicles from your right, and turn left on entering the roundabout.There are no toll roads or toll bridges in Scotland.Some rural roads are single lane, but have passing places so traffic in opposite directions can pass safely or the driver behind can overtake. Check the UK Highway Code for more information.


DRIVING IN TOWNS AND CITIES

Generally, roads tend to be busier around towns and cities during morning and evening rush hours - generally from 7.30 - 9.30 am and 4 - 6.30 pm.Bus lanes are used in some cities - they can only be used by buses and taxis when in operation at certain times of the day.




 
 
 

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