Practical Information for Visitors to Scotland
Money & Payments
Currency
Scotland uses the pound sterling (£), the same currency as the rest of the UK. Coins range from 1p to £2. Scottish banks issue their own banknotes, which are accepted throughout Scotland and the wider UK.
Cards & Contactless Payments
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted across Scotland, including for small purchases. American Express is accepted in fewer places, particularly in smaller shops. Contactless payments, Apple Pay and Google Pay are commonly used.
If you’re offered the choice of paying in pounds or your home currency, selecting pounds is usually cheaper, as overseas conversion fees may apply.
Cash & Banking
The majority of banks are open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and some branches open on Saturday mornings. ATMs (cash machines) are widely available. If you are using a credit/debit card issued from outside the UK additional fees may apply.
Contactless payments with credit or debit cards, as well as Apple or Google Pay, are widely accepted in shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants.
In rural areas, ATMs can be harder to find, so it’s a good idea to take out some cash before heading into the countryside. It’s also wise to carry enough for your immediate needs, just in case a machine isn’t working.
Currency Exchange
Bureau de Change services are available at airports, post offices, travel agents, selected banks and larger Marks & Spencer stores. Exchange rates vary, so it’s worth comparing options or arranging currency online before you travel.
Health, Safety & Emergencies
Emergency Services
For police, fire or ambulance services, call 999. Calls are free from any phone.
Medical Advice
For non-urgent medical advice, visitors can call NHS24 on 111. Pharmacies can also provide advice and treatment for minor conditions.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Visitors from outside the UK should ensure their policy covers medical treatment, cancellations, delays and lost luggage, as NHS treatment is not free for non-residents.
Accessible Travel
Getting Around
Many hotels, restaurants, attractions and transport hubs offer step-free access, particularly in towns and cities. Most buses in Scotland are wheelchair accessible.
Train passengers can request assistance in advance, including help with boarding, luggage and navigating stations. Wheelchair-accessible taxis are available in most larger towns and cities, though ride-share vehicles may need to be booked specially.
Places to Stay & Visit
VisitScotland provides information on accessible accommodation, including hotels, B&Bs and self-catering properties. Euan’s Guide offers reviews of attractions written by disabled visitors.
Customs, Tax & Entry Rules
Customs & Duty-Free
Travellers arriving from outside the UK have personal allowances for alcohol, tobacco and goods. Restrictions apply to certain food and animal products. Allowances can change, so check the latest guidance from HM Revenue & Customs before travelling.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
VAT is charged at 20% on most goods and services. Visitors can no longer reclaim VAT on goods bought in Scotland unless items are shipped directly overseas. VAT cannot be reclaimed on accommodation, tours or other services.
Electricity & Practicalities
Electricity & Plug Sockets
The voltage in Scotland is 230/240 volts. Most places use a three-pin plug (Type G) with a 3, 5 or 13 amp fuse. It’s recommended that you check the voltage requirements of any appliances you are planning to bring, in case you need a voltage adapter.
If you’re coming from Europe or North America, you’ll probably need a plug adapter,
which are easy to find at airports and larger shops.
Time, Language & Culture
Time Zone
Scotland uses Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) from late October to late March, and British Summer Time (GMT+1) from late March to late October.
Daylight hours vary widely with the seasons - in midsummer, it can remain light until after 10 pm, while winter nights draw in early (around 3-4 pm).
Languages
English is spoken throughout Scotland. You may also see and hear Scots and Gaelic, particularly in the Highlands and Islands, where Gaelic has strong cultural significance.
Laws, Customs & Everyday Etiquette
Smoking & Vaping
Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places, including pubs, restaurants and hotels. Smoking is not allowed on public transport, and vaping may also be restricted in some venues.
Tipping
Tipping is discretionary. In restaurants with table service, a tip of 10–15% is customary if service is good and no service charge has been added. Tipping is not expected in bars, though it is appreciated for exceptional service. Taxi fares are often rounded up.
Planning Your Visit
Public Holidays
Scotland has its own public holidays, including New Year’s Day, St Andrew’s Day, Easter and Boxing Day. Local holidays vary by area and may affect opening hours.
Embassies & Consulates
All embassies are based in London, though some countries have consulates in Scotland. These can assist with emergencies such as passport replacement.
Everyday Essentials
Drinking Water
Tap water in Scotland is safe to drink and of very high quality. Refill stations are widely available, including Top Up Taps provided by Scottish Water.
Weights & Measures
Scotland uses a mix of metric and imperial measurements. Road distances and speed limits are in miles, fuel is sold in litres, and pints are the standard measure for beer in pubs.
