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30 Best Books About Scotland To Read

These books about Scotland, a land of rugged landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant cultural heritage, captivate the imagination of readers and travellers alike.

From the mist-shrouded highlands to the bustling streets of Edinburgh, Scotland’s unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored through the pages of literature.

Whether you seek tales of legendary clans, poetic descriptions of its breathtaking scenery, or insights into the complex history that has shaped this nation, there is a wealth of books that will transport you to the heart of Scotland, where the past and present converge in a timeless narrative.

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Books About Scotland

Delve into a selection of books about Scotland that offer a glimpse into the enchanting world of the country, inviting you to embark on a literary journey through its diverse landscapes and captivating stories.

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland you can find hotels in Edinburgh here.


How the Scots Invented the Modern World by Arthur Herman

How the Scots Invented the Modern World is a non-fiction book that explores the significant contributions of Scots to the development of the modern world.

In this thought-provoking work, Herman argues that Scotland played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual, scientific, and economic advancements that have had a lasting impact on global civilization.

The book covers a wide range of topics, including the Scottish Enlightenment, the philosophy of thinkers like David Hume and Adam Smith, the engineering feats of James Watt, the spread of Scottish education and ideas around the world, and the role of Scottish immigrants in the United States.

Through vivid storytelling and historical analysis, Herman presents a compelling case for Scotland’s outsized influence on the modern era.

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Outlander tells the story of Claire Randall, a former World War II nurse who, in 1945, is reunited with her husband, Frank, after the war.

They decide to take a second honeymoon in the Scottish Highlands to rekindle their relationship. However, their plans take a dramatic turn when Claire is mysteriously transported back in time to 1743.

In the 18th century, Claire finds herself in the midst of political turmoil and clan conflicts in Scotland. She encounters a group of Highlanders, including a dashing warrior named Jamie Fraser.

As Claire navigates this unfamiliar world and attempts to find her way back to her own time, she becomes entangled in a complex web of romance, adventure, and intrigue.

The novel skillfully weaves together elements of historical fiction, romance, and time travel, making it a compelling and unique read. It explores themes of love, loyalty, and the clash of cultures, all set against the backdrop of Scotland’s rich history.

This is one of the most famous fictional books about Scotland to read.

Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart

Shuggie Bain was published in 2020 and received critical acclaim, including winning the 2020 Booker Prize, one of the most prestigious literary awards in the world.

The novel is set in Glasgow, Scotland, in the 1980s, during a period of economic hardship and social upheaval. It primarily follows the life of young Shuggie, whose full name is Hugh “Shuggie” Bain, as he grows up in a working-class, impoverished neighbourhood.

Shuggie’s family is struggling with poverty, addiction, and various personal challenges, and Shuggie is particularly close to his mother, Agnes, who is an alcoholic.

The novel explores themes of poverty, addiction, identity, and the complex dynamics within families. Shuggie is a sensitive and compassionate boy who faces numerous challenges as he tries to navigate a difficult environment and care for his mother. His unwavering love and devotion to his mother are central to the story.

Shuggie Bain is a poignant and emotionally charged novel that delves into the lives of its characters with great depth and empathy. Douglas Stuart drew upon his own experiences growing up in Glasgow during a similar time period, which adds authenticity and realism to the story.

Luckenbooth by Jenni Fagan

Luckenbooth was published in 2021 and is a work of dark and atmospheric fiction that combines elements of historical fiction, folklore, and the supernatural. The term “luckenbooth” refers to a traditional Scottish brooch often exchanged between lovers as a symbol of affection and commitment.

The novel is set in a tenement building in Edinburgh, Scotland, and spans several generations. It weaves together interconnected stories of the building’s inhabitants over the years, focusing on the lives of women who have lived there.

These women, both past and present, are linked by their experiences, secrets, and the eerie and mysterious occurrences that seem to permeate the building.

As the narrative unfolds, readers are introduced to a range of characters, each with their own unique story and struggles. Themes of love, loss, family, and the supernatural are interwoven throughout the book, creating a rich and layered narrative that explores the dark and hidden aspects of human existence.

Pine by Francine Toon

Pine was published in 2020 and is a work of fiction that falls into the genre of contemporary Gothic literature. The novel is set in a remote village in the Scottish Highlands and combines elements of mystery, psychological suspense, and the supernatural.

The story revolves around a young girl named Lauren, who lives with her father Niall in a small village surrounded by forests. Lauren’s mother disappeared years ago, and the mystery of her disappearance continues to haunt the family and the community.

As the story unfolds, strange and eerie events begin to occur in the village, and Lauren becomes increasingly obsessed with uncovering the truth about her mother’s disappearance.

“Pine” explores themes of grief, loss, isolation, and the blurred lines between reality and the supernatural. It has been praised for its atmospheric and evocative writing, as well as its ability to create a sense of unease and tension throughout the narrative.

The Highland Clans by Alistair Moffat

The Highland Clans is a book by Scottish author and historian Alistair Moffat. Published in 2013, this book provides an in-depth exploration of the history and culture of the Scottish Highland clans.

Alistair Moffat is known for his works on Scottish history and genealogy, and in “Highland Clans,” he delves into the fascinating world of Scotland’s clans and their impact on the country’s history.

The book delves into the histories of various Highland clans, tracing their origins, development, and notable events in their histories. It highlights the unique characteristics and traditions of each clan.

Alistair Moffat explores the cultural aspects of the Highland clans, including their distinctive dress, tartans, music, and traditions. He discusses the importance of clan identity and loyalty in Highland society.

It’s considered a valuable resource for anyone interested in Scottish history, genealogy, or the culture of the Scottish Highlands.

Whisky: The Manual by Dave Broom

Whisky: The Manual is a book by Dave Broom, a well-known whisky expert and writer. This book serves as a guide to understanding and appreciating whisky, covering various aspects of this popular spirit.

The book takes you on a journey through the world of whisky, introducing you to different types of whisky, including Scotch, Irish, American, and more. It provides insights into the distinct characteristics of each style and region.

The book also into the whisky-making process, explaining the key steps involved in the production of whisky, from malting and mashing to fermentation, distillation, maturation, and bottling.

It goes beyond the technical aspects of whisky and delves into the culture surrounding this spirit, including its history, traditions, and the role it has played in various cultures around the world.

Raw Spirit by Iain Banks

Sticking with the whisky theme, Raw Spirit: In Search of the Perfect Dram explores Banks’s passion for whisky and his travels through various distilleries and regions in Scotland in search of the perfect dram (a term used to describe a glass of whisky).

The book is part travelogue, part memoir, and part whisky guide. In it, Banks shares his experiences visiting distilleries, attending whisky festivals, and meeting with people involved in the whisky industry.

He also delves into the history and culture of whisky in Scotland, providing insights into the production process and the different types of Scotch whisky.

Throughout “Raw Spirit,” Iain Banks provides his personal opinions and anecdotes related to whisky and Scottish culture, making it an enjoyable read for both whisky enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland’s rich heritage.

Additionally, the book includes his musings on various other topics, including politics and the environment. If you have an interest in whisky then this is one of the best books about Scotland for you to read.

The Scottish Enlightenment: The Scots’ Invention of the Modern World by Arthur Herman

The Scottish Enlightenment: The Scots’ Invention of the Modern World explores the intellectual and cultural movement known as the Scottish Enlightenment, which occurred in Scotland during the 18th century.

The Scottish Enlightenment was a period of great intellectual ferment and innovation, and it had a profound impact on a wide range of fields, including philosophy, economics, science, literature, and politics.

The book profiles some of the leading figures of the Scottish Enlightenment, including philosophers like David Hume and Adam Smith, scientists like James Hutton and Joseph Black, and writers like Sir Walter Scott.

These individuals made significant contributions to their respective fields and had a lasting influence on the development of modern thought.

Raven Black by Ann Cleeves

Raven Black was first published in 2006 and is the first book in the Shetland Island Quartet series, featuring Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez as the central character. The book is set on the Shetland Islands, which are located off the northeast coast of Scotland.

The story revolves around the murder of a teenage girl named Catherine Ross. Her body is discovered in the winter landscape of the Shetland Islands, and suspicion falls on a man named Magnus Tait, who was previously acquitted of another girl’s murder years ago and is considered an outsider by the close-knit island community.

As Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez investigates the murder, he must navigate the complexities of island life and uncover the secrets and hidden motives of the residents.

The book explores the isolation and unique cultural aspects of the Shetland Islands, as well as the impact of the murder on the tight-knit community.

Ann Cleeves is known for her skilful character development and atmospheric writing, and “Raven Black” is no exception. The novel has received praise for its evocative depiction of the Shetland landscape, its well-drawn characters, and its intricate plot.

This is one of the best books about Scotland for crime fiction.

Once There Were Wolves

Once There Were Wolves is a work of contemporary fiction that explores themes related to nature, wildlife conservation, family dynamics, and the human connection to the natural world. The novel was published in 2021.

The story is set in a remote part of Scotland and follows the character of Inti Flynn, a biologist who specializes in rewilding and reintroducing wolves into their natural habitats.

Inti and her team are working to reintroduce a pack of wolves into the Scottish Highlands, a controversial and challenging endeavour that sparks a range of emotions and reactions from the local community.

As Inti immerses herself in the wild and rugged landscape, she grapples with her own personal demons and past traumas while trying to make a difference in the world of conservation.

The novel also explores her complicated relationship with her sister, Aggie, and the bond they share as they confront their shared history and confront their own individual challenges.

Edinburgh: A Cultural and Literary History by Donald Campbell

Edinburgh: A Cultural and Literary History is part of the “Cities of the Imagination” series published by Interlink Books. It explores the cultural and literary history of Edinburgh, a city renowned for its rich literary heritage and historical significance.

In “Edinburgh: A Cultural and Literary History,” Donald Campbell delves into the city’s past and its contributions to literature, philosophy, and culture. The book covers key aspects of Edinburgh’s cultural identity, its famous authors like Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns, its role in the Scottish Enlightenment, and its architectural and historical landmarks.

If you’re interested in learning more about Edinburgh’s cultural and literary heritage, this book should provide valuable insights and information.

The Living Mountain by Nan Shepherd

The Living Mountain is a book written by Scottish author and poet Nan Shepherd. Published in 1977, this work is a unique and lyrical exploration of the Cairngorms, a mountain range in the eastern Highlands of Scotland.

Unlike typical nature writing, “The Living Mountain” does not focus on conquering or analyzing nature but rather on experiencing and becoming a part of it.

Nan Shepherd’s prose is often described as poetic and deeply philosophical. In the book, she immerses herself in the natural world, offering vivid descriptions of the landscape, its flora and fauna, and the changing seasons.

She contemplates the relationship between humans and the environment, the interconnectedness of all living things, and the transcendent experiences that can be found in nature.

This is one of the best books about Scotland set in nature.

Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales by Gordon Jarvie

Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales by Gordon Jarvie is a collection of traditional stories and legends from Scotland. The book features a wide range of folk tales, fairy tales, myths, and legends that have been passed down through generations in Scottish oral tradition.

These stories often reflect the cultural heritage, history, and beliefs of the Scottish people. In this collection, you can expect to encounter a diverse array of characters and themes, including mythical creatures like selkies and kelpies, heroic figures like William Wallace, and tales of everyday life in rural Scotland.

A History of Scotland: Look Behind the Mist and Myth of Scottish History by Neil Oliver

A History of Scotland: Look Behind the Mist and Myth of Scottish History is a book written by Neil Oliver, a Scottish archaeologist, historian, and television presenter. The book was published in 2008 and serves as a companion to the BBC television series of the same name, which Neil Oliver also presented.

In “A History of Scotland,” Neil Oliver takes readers on a journey through the complex and often tumultuous history of Scotland, from its ancient past to the modern era. The book explores various key events, figures, and periods in Scottish history, shedding light on the myths and misconceptions that have often surrounded Scotland’s past.

The book covers a wide range of topics, including the early Celtic tribes, the influence of the Roman Empire, the Viking invasions, the Wars of Independence with England, the Jacobite uprisings, the Scottish Enlightenment, and more. Neil Oliver provides historical context, vivid descriptions, and personal insights, making the history of Scotland come alive for readers.

One of the key themes of the book is the idea of looking beyond the romanticized and stereotypical notions of Scottish history and getting to the heart of the real events and people who shaped the nation. It aims to provide a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of Scotland’s rich and complex history.

The Great Tapestry of Scotland: The Making of a Masterpiece by Alistair Moffat and Andrew Crummy

The Great Tapestry of Scotland: The Making of a Masterpiece is a book by Alistair Moffat and Andrew Crummy that tells the story behind the creation of a remarkable piece of textile art known as “The Great Tapestry of Scotland.”

This book provides insights into the conception, design, and execution of the tapestry, offering a detailed look at the artistic and historical elements that went into its making.

The Great Tapestry of Scotland is an ambitious project that depicts the history of Scotland in a series of beautifully woven panels. Each panel represents a different period in Scotland’s history, from its geological origins to more recent events.

The tapestry is a collaborative effort, involving many skilled stitchers and artists, and it serves as a visual representation of Scotland’s rich and diverse heritage.

Antonia Fraser’s biography covers various aspects of Mary’s life, including her early years in France, her marriage to the Dauphin Francis, her return to Scotland as a young widow, and the tumultuous political and religious challenges she faced as queen.

Culloden by John Prebble

Culloden is a historical book written by John Prebble, first published in 1961. The book provides a detailed account of the Battle of Culloden, which took place on April 16, 1746, near Inverness in Scotland.

This battle is one of the most significant events in Scottish history and marked the end of the Jacobite uprising of 1745-1746.

The book offers a comprehensive historical account of the events leading up to the Battle of Culloden, the battle itself, and its aftermath. Prebble meticulously researches and presents the details of the conflict.

Mary Queen of Scots by Antonia Fraser

Mary Queen of Scots is a biography of the Scottish queen, Mary Stuart, written by the acclaimed British author Antonia Fraser. Published in 1969, this book is a well-researched and comprehensive account of the life and reign of Mary, one of the most famous and controversial figures in European history.

The book explores Mary’s relationships with key figures of her time, including Queen Elizabeth I of England and various Scottish nobles.

Knots and Crosses by Ian Rankin

Knots and Crosses is the first novel in the Inspector Rebus series written by Scottish author Ian Rankin. It was originally published in 1987. The book introduces readers to Detective Inspector John Rebus, a character who would go on to become one of Rankin’s most iconic and enduring creations.

John Rebus is a detective in the Edinburgh police force. He is haunted by his past, including his time as a soldier in the SAS (Special Air Service), and he is struggling to come to terms with his personal demons. The novel follows Rebus as he investigates a series of gruesome murders that appear to be linked to his own past.

The title “Knots and Crosses” refers to a children’s game also known as “tic-tac-toe” or “noughts and crosses.” Throughout the story, the killer leaves a series of knotted string and crosses at the crime scenes, taunting Rebus and challenging him to solve the puzzle.

As Rebus delves deeper into the case, he must confront not only a cunning and elusive killer but also his own inner turmoil. The novel is a gritty and atmospheric police procedural that explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the dark secrets that can haunt a person’s past.

The Rebus series has since become known for its realistic portrayal of Edinburgh and its intricate, character-driven mysteries. If you have an interest in crime fiction and Edinburgh then this is one of the best books about Scotland to read.

44 Scotland Street by Alexander McCall Smith

44 Scotland Street is a serialized novel first published in 2004 as a daily newspaper serial in The Scotsman and later compiled into book form. The novel is set in Edinburgh, Scotland, and follows the lives and interactions of the diverse residents of a fictional apartment building located at 44 Scotland Street.

The story features a cast of quirky and memorable characters, each with their own unique personalities and storylines.

The novel explores a wide range of themes, including love, friendship, family dynamics, and the complexities of everyday life. It combines humour and keen observations about human nature and relationships, making it a charming and engaging read.

“44 Scotland Street” was followed by several sequels, creating a series known as the “Scotland Street” series. Each instalment in the series continues to follow the lives of the characters and their evolving relationships.

Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson

Kidnapped is a novel written by Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, first published in 1886. The story is set in the aftermath of the Jacobite Rising of 1745 and follows the adventures of a young man named David Balfour.

The novel begins with David Balfour, an orphaned and impoverished young man, setting out to seek his fortune. He initially travels to the house of his estranged uncle, Ebenezer Balfour, hoping to claim his inheritance.

However, David’s uncle has other plans and conspires to have him kidnapped and sold into slavery in the American colonies. Fortunately, David escapes and embarks on a perilous journey through the Scottish Highlands.

During his travels, David encounters a colourful cast of characters, including the dashing and charismatic Alan Breck Stewart, who becomes his companion. Together, they navigate the treacherous landscape, facing danger, intrigue, and betrayal. The novel explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and the struggle for justice.

This is one of the most famous Scottish books written.

The Wasp Factory by Iain Banks

The Wasp Factory is a novel written by Scottish author Iain Banks. It was first published in 1984 and is considered one of Banks’ most famous and controversial works. The novel is a dark and unsettling exploration of the mind of its protagonist, Frank Cauldhame.

The novel is known for its disturbing and macabre themes. It centres around Frank Cauldhame, a teenage boy living on a remote Scottish island, who engages in gruesome and ritualistic acts, including the construction of the “wasp factory,” which plays a central role in the story.

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel Spark

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie is a novel written by Scottish author Muriel Spark. It was first published in 1961 and has since become one of Spark’s most famous and critically acclaimed works.

The novel is set in 1930s Edinburgh, Scotland, and tells the story of a charismatic and unorthodox schoolteacher, Miss Jean Brodie, and her impact on a group of young girls at the Marcia Blaine School for Girls.

The novel explores themes of education, influence, individuality, and the consequences of unconventional teaching methods. Miss Jean Brodie is an eccentric and influential teacher who takes a special interest in a group of six girls, known as the “Brodie set,” and imparts her strong opinions and beliefs on them.

However, her unorthodox teaching style and her personal life, including her love affairs and political affiliations, come under scrutiny.

The Blackhouse by Peter May

The Blackhouse is the first novel in The Lewis Trilogy by Scottish author Peter May. It was originally published in 2011.

The novel introduces readers to Detective Fin Macleod, a complex and troubled character who returns to the Isle of Lewis, his childhood home, to investigate a murder that bears similarities to a case he’s working on in Edinburgh.

The novel is set on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, a remote and windswept archipelago off the west coast of Scotland. Peter May’s evocative descriptions of the island’s rugged landscapes and its unique culture and traditions play a significant role in the story.

The book alternates between Fin Macleod’s current investigation and flashbacks to his childhood on the island. As he delves into the close-knit island community, he must confront his own past and the personal demons that haunt him.

This is one of the best crime books about Scotland.

Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh

Trainspotting was published in 1993 and it gained cult status for its gritty and unapologetic portrayal of drug addiction, poverty, and urban life in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The novel is written in a strong Scottish dialect and features a range of colourful and often morally ambiguous characters and is one of the most famous modern books about Scotland.

The story revolves around Mark Renton, a heroin addict, and his group of friends, including Spud, Sick Boy, and Begbie. The novel explores their lives as they navigate the world of drug addiction, crime, and various misadventures.

It delves into the harsh realities and consequences of addiction, including the physical and emotional toll it takes on individuals and their relationships.

The Hidden Ways: Scotland’s Forgotten Roads

The Hidden Ways: Scotland’s Forgotten Roads was published in 2018 and explores the lesser-known historical paths and routes that crisscross Scotland’s landscape.

In “The Hidden Ways,” Alistair Moffat embarks on a journey to uncover and document old trails, tracks, and paths that have been used by people throughout Scotland’s history. These paths include ancient drove roads, pilgrim routes, and forgotten byways that were once essential for trade, communication, and pilgrimage.

Moffat’s exploration takes readers through various regions of Scotland, from the Borders to the Highlands and the Western Isles. Along the way, he delves into the rich history, folklore, and cultural significance of these hidden paths.

Out of these books about Scotland, this one offers a unique perspective on the country’s past, highlighting how these pathways shaped the country’s development and its people’s lives.

Robert the Bruce: King of Scots by Ronald McNair Scott

Robert the Bruce: King of Scots by Ronald McNair Scott is a biographical book that explores the life and reign of Robert the Bruce, one of Scotland’s most iconic historical figures. Robert the Bruce, also known as King Robert I, played a crucial role in Scotland’s struggle for independence from English rule in the 14th century.

In this biography, Ronald McNair Scott delves into the life of Robert the Bruce, tracing his early years, his ascent to the Scottish throne, and his leadership during the Wars of Scottish Independence.

The book provides historical context for the turbulent period in which Robert the Bruce lived and the challenges he faced in uniting Scotland against English domination. This is one of the best books about Scotland exploring this famous Scotsman.

Women Of The Dunes by Sarah Maine

Women Of The Dunes is a work of historical fiction that weaves together multiple timelines and narratives, blending elements of mystery, romance, and archaeology.

The story is set in the rugged and remote landscape of the Scottish Highlands, particularly in the fictional coastal village of Ullaness. The narrative follows three different women from different time periods:

Libby Snow is a modern-day archaeologist who arrives in Ullaness to excavate the site of an ancient settlement that is threatened by coastal erosion. As she delves into the excavation, she uncovers secrets about the village’s history and the lives of its past inhabitants.

Ellen is a crofter’s wife who lived in Ullaness in the late 19th century. Her story is revealed through diary entries, and it is connected to a mysterious carving she discovers in the sand dunes, which hints at a lost treasure.

Ulla is a Pictish woman from the Iron Age, and her story is intertwined with the other two women’s narratives. Ulla’s life and her connection to the ancient settlement play a central role in the novel.

As the novel progresses, these three women’s stories become interconnected, and the mystery of the dunes, the carving, and the hidden treasure slowly unravels.

The White Bird Passes by Jessie Kesson

The White Bird Passes is a novel written by Scottish author Jessie Kesson. It was first published in 1958 and is considered one of Kesson’s most notable works. The novel is a semi-autobiographical account of the author’s own childhood and early life.

The novel draws heavily from Jessie Kesson’s own life, particularly her experiences growing up in a small Scottish town and her struggles with poverty and family dynamics. It offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by the working class in Scotland during the early 20th century.

The story primarily follows the experiences of a young girl named Janie growing up in a poverty-stricken family. As she navigates her childhood and adolescence, the novel explores her personal growth and coming of age.

The White Bird Passes delves into the complex relationships within Janie’s family, including her mother, father, and siblings. It examines the impact of poverty, alcoholism, and societal expectations on family dynamics.

The Complete Poems of Robert Burns by Robert Burns

The Complete Poems of Robert Burns is a collection of poems by the Scottish poet Robert Burns, also known as the Bard of Ayrshire. Robert Burns (1759-1796) is widely regarded as one of the greatest poets in the Scots language and a key figure in Scottish literature.

His works often celebrate the people, landscapes, and culture of Scotland.

This collection typically includes all of Burns’s known poems, songs, and lyrical works. Some of his most famous poems and songs, such as “Auld Lang Syne,” “To a Mouse,” “Tam o’ Shanter,” and “A Red, Red Rose,” are included in this comprehensive compilation.

Burns’s poetry covers a wide range of themes, from love and nature to social issues and political commentary. He wrote in both Scots dialect and standard English, showcasing his versatility as a poet.

Burns’s poems often reflect the struggles and joys of everyday life in 18th-century Scotland, and his ability to capture the human experience in his verse has made him a beloved figure not only in Scotland but also around the world.


Travel Guides To Scotland

There are lots of good travel guides to Scotland and any of these will perfectly do the job. If you know that you are going to mostly visit one particular area of Scotland then you can choose a guide specific to there, such as the Hebrides.

Lonely Planet Scotland

Lonely Planet is known for its comprehensive travel guides, and its Scotland guidebook is no exception. It covers the entire country, from the cities to the Highlands and Islands.

Lonely Planet Scotland’s Highlands & Islands

The guide covers a wide range of destinations in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, including Inverness, the Isle of Skye, the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, and many more.

DK Eyewitness Scotland

DK Eyewitness Travel guides are known for their visual appeal and detailed illustrations. This guidebook provides a visual tour of Scotland’s attractions.

Rick Steves Scotland

Rick Steves’ guidebooks are popular among travellers seeking a more budget-friendly and off-the-beaten-path experience. His Scotland guide provides practical advice and cultural insights.

Fodor’s Essential Scotland

Fodor’s travel guides are well-regarded for their informative content. This guidebook offers recommendations for various budgets and travel styles.

Bradt Inner Hebrides

The Bradt Travel Guide for the Inner Hebrides explores this stunning archipelago off the western coast of Scotland. Bradt Travel Guides are known for their detailed and in-depth coverage of various destinations, including lesser-known or less-visited areas.

Bradt Outer Hebrides

Same as the other Bradt Inner Hebrides in style but for the Outer Hebrides.

Scottish Bothy Bible: The complete guide to Scotland’s bothies and how to reach them.

This is the perfect companion if you plan to do a lot of hiking and looking to stay at the well-known Scottish bothies out in nature. This is actually one of the best books about Scotland for hiking enthusiasts.


Books About Scotland

These books about Scotland show its diverse history and culture to its literature and landscapes. Whether you’re interested in fiction, history, or travel, there’s something on this list for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland you can find hotels in Edinburgh here.

For more on Scotland have a look at:

A guide to the historic castles of Scotland.


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