Scotland is part of the United Kingdom (UK). Four countries form the UK: Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The UK Government is based in London, while the devolved Scottish Government is based in Edinburgh.
Scotland and the rest of the UK sit on the north-west corner of Europe, separated from the European mainland by the English Channel. The North Sea and Scandanavia are to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
Scotland’s pioneering spirit has produced many firsts including the television, Dolly the Sheep and the world’s first commercially available bionic hand.
Golf was invented in Scotland and the country is internationally renowned as the Home of Golf. Famous Scottish courses include the Old Course at St Andrews
Scotland is famous the world over for its favourite export, Scotch whisky, of which there are more than 2,500 varieties.
Scotland provides some of the world’s most delicious food, including wild salmon, seafood, lobster, lamb, venison and Aberdeen Angus beef.
The Scottish Parliament was reconvened in 1999 after almost 300 years, following a referendum two years earlier.
Scotland has a year-round programme of events including what is the world’s biggest arts festival the Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe.
Tartan and the kilt are instantly recognised the world over as uniquely Scottish
Scotland has over 700 islands, 99 of which are inhabited.
Scotland is a country of outstanding natural beauty with breathtaking scenery and many unspoilt beaches.
Scotland’s flag is known as the Saltire or Saint Andrew’s Cross.
Scotland offers a wealth of outdoor pursuits and adventure activities to suit all tastes.
Scotland is renowned for its world-class education institutions, with the highest concentration of universities in Europe.
Scotland's eventful history has left an enduring mark on the landscape in the shape of many castles, fortresses and tower houses
Scotland is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for life sciences and hosts one of the largest life science clusters in Europe
Scotland’s capital is Edinburgh, one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan centres
There are nearly 300 museums and galleries in Scotland. One of the newest is the Riverside Museum in Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow
Highland Games are traditional sporting occasions. The Braemar Gathering is the best known of the series of Games held every summer with competitions in Highland Dancing, athletics and trials of strength
Famous Scots include the tennis player Andy Murray, twice winner of the Shanghai Open
Scotland is the powerhouse of Europe when it comes to harnessing the potential of renewable energy
Scotland is renowned for its friendly, welcoming people
