Scottish Culture

Scottish Culture

•    The language Gaelic is the native language however it is spoken by a minority of people. Most who do speak the language are located in the Highlands and Islands with it taught in schools, however the main language is English.
•    There are numerous famous writers from Scotland such as Rabbie Burns (Robert Burns) , Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson to name a few. There are so many novels, folk tales and these delve into the history of Scotland. One of the best novels from Sir Walter has to be Rob Roy and if you have a chance to read it i would highly recommend it. Many children learn the Robert Burns poems at school and they are a true part of being Scottish such as the famous Tam O’Shanter Poem.

•    Traditional Scottish Music includes bagpipes, fiddles and the accordion.The music is often lively and is also joined with some traditional dancing like the well known highland fling and ceilidh dancing, which is often seen at new year, weddings and significant events up and down the country. 

•    Festivals are a huge part of Scotland and they span the year long. The Edinburgh Festival covers the International festival Fringe, and the Military Tattoo. We also love celebrating New Year, St Andrews Day and Burns Night. Really the Scots just love a reason to Celebrate. 

•    Highland games are a unique experience when visiting Scotland and can be found up and down the country. These include caber tossing, hammer throwing, tug-of-war and Highland Dancing. They are also supported by bagpipe competitions and lots of lively music. 
•    Tartan and Kilts often bring alot of attention, especially if they are worn out with Scotland. Men in kilts is such a wonderful sight, with all the different clans, patterns and accessories that go alongside them. The sporrans are beautiful and come in a variety of material, size and shapes (a pouch worn around the waist). Or of course why not pick yourself up a Sgian-dubh or a small knife which is often tucked into their socks. Even the shoes or Ghillie Brogues are one of a kind. They are traditionally worn on special occasions such as weddings and also my many military regiments. 

•    The Scottish Cuisine is unique in that we have dishes that are a bit like marmite. You will either love or hate them. The traditional Haggis is eaten alongside neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes) and a whisky sauce. This can often be found is many restaurants you visit on your travels and needs to be tasted atleast once. You can get vegetarian options also. Scotch Broth is a hearty soup often made in big batches and in a traditional heavy based soup pot which aids the flavour. If your more into the sweet side of life why not sample the different shortbread at each of your motorhome stops or some cranachan which is made from oats, cream, honey and raspberries. It is especially delicious in summer when the freshest of raspberries are used. 

•    Folklore and Mythology is big news in Scotland. From that mythical Loch Ness monster and the Kelpie (water spirit). Visit the Kelpies in Falkirk which are based by the water, they are a truly spectacular exhibit and a must visit. There are many a tale of fairies, selkies and of course the brave heros such as William Wallace and Rob Roy. 

These are of course just a few highlights of Scottish Culture to explore on your holiday with Scottish Tourer. For now we will leave you with the photo below of our beloved sport – golfing in one of the most beautiful locations!