Scotland
Scotland, the U.K.’s northernmost country, is a land of mountain wildernesses such as the Cairngorms and Western Highlands, interspersed with glacial glens (valleys) and lochs (lakes). Its major cities are Edinburgh, the capital, loomed over by its iconic castle, and Glasgow, famed for its vibrant cultural scene. Scotland is also the ‘home of golf’, typified by the 16th-century Old Course at St Andrews.
Natural larder
Produce
Scottish producers now grow 3,000 tonnes of raspberries and 22,000 tonnes of strawberries
each year. Scotland is the birthplace of some of the main beef breeds in the world - including Aberdeen Angus, Galloway and Highland. They now produce nearly 30% of the UK's breeding cattle.
Seafood
Scotland’s coastline is home to thousands of species of fish and shellfish. Scotland is now one of the largest seafood producers in Europe, and the third largest producer of farmed Atlantic salmon in the world, exporting to over 60 countries worldwide. Scottish lobsters are currently used in over 20 Michelin starred restaurants in Tokyo alone.
Dairy
There are more than two dozen cheese-makers across Scotland, ranging from large Cheddar creameries to smaller artisan and farmhouse cheese-makers. Scottish Cheddar accounts for 80% of total output and the main creameries are located at Lockerbie, Stranraer and Campbeltown.
Whisky
It's beyond dispute that whisky is one of Scotland's most famous exports. Sold in around 200 markets worldwide, whisky accounts for 80% of Scotland's food and drink export market. Our range of whiskies from 109 distilleries across Scotland is beyond compare.
Facts:
- Aberdeen has become an important centre for the oil industry after the finding of oil in the North Sea.
The highest mountain in Scotland is Ben Nevis which stands at a height of 1344 metres (4409 feet).
- The Scottish Highlands are a mountainous region of Scotland with historical importance and a low population density.
- Most major cities are located in the Scottish Lowlands.
- A variety of wildlife can be found in Scotland, including seals, mountain hare, ptarmigan, stoats and the golden eagle.
- Scotland has over 300 railway stations.
- Scottish drivers use the left-hand side of the road.
- Scotland has a unique culture with traditions such as bagpipes, kilts and highland dancing.
- In 1872, Scotland played England in the first international game of football (soccer). The result was a 0-0 draw.
- The thistle is a national symbol of Scotland.