Visiting Scotland – driving tips

Advice for driving in Scotland

As this site is based in Scotland, it makes sense to highlight some of the issues you may come across when driving around.  The road network in Scotland covers stunning places such as Loch Lomond, Loch Ness, Glen Coe and, of course, the North Coast 500.

Here are a few things you should keep in mind when driving in Scotland.

Drive on the left

Most countries drive on the right, remember Scotland, and the rest of the UK do the opposite and drive on the left.

Wear a seatbelt

Not only could it save your life, but it is also a legal requirement.

Rest often

With twisty roads, the risk of animals wandering on and just the time travelling, remember to take a break. Try and take a 20 min break every couple of hours.

Know your traffic signs

Many traffic signs will seem similar to you, make sure you know what they really mean by visiting this site and downloading the PDF about UK traffic signs.

know your traffic signs

Don’t drink and drive

The alcohol limit in Scotland is different to the rest of the UK, 22 microgrammes (mcg) of alcohol in 100 ml of breath. Be safe and don’t drink.  If you are visiting a distillery, ask for their “drivers’ dram” so you can enjoy your well-earned whisky later on when you reach your destination.

Single-track roads

There are a lot of single-track roads, especially in picturesque areas.  These roads only have space for one vehicle and have passing places.  Don’t park in passing places as they are here to help the traffic move – not for a photo stop. If you see a vehicle coming towards you, pull into a passing place and wait until they pass.

Bendy roads

We have lots of bendy and twisty roads, such as around Loch Lomond.  Take your time.

Animals

Keep an eye out for wandering animals. Sheep, deer, Squirrels, and pheasants seem to like to wander into the road.

Keep safe, and happy travels

emma

Emma

Hello!

I am Emma and with my husband Mark write Foodie Explorers, which is a food and travel website.

I am a member of the Guild of Food Writers and British Guild of Travel Writers.

We have a wide range of judging experience covering products, hotels and have judged, for example, for Great Taste Awards and Scottish Baker of the Year.

Along the way Mark gained WSET Level 2 in Wine and I have WSET Level 2 in Spirits as well as picking up an award with The Scotsman Food and Drink Awards.    

Usually I can be found sleeping beside a cat.

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