Student guide to Scotland: top 10 things to do

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The most northern country in the British Isles has so much to see and do. There really is something for everyone, with stunning scenery, world-class museums and excellent entertainment and nightlife. Here’s our list of 10 things you don’t want to miss as a student in Scotland.

1) Highland games

Man walking to hammer toss at the Highland Games. Only his legs are visible, with the hammer dangling by his side.

Good for: Celebrating Scottish culture and heritage, an exciting day out.

What it is: An annual outdoor event where attendees compete in traditional sports, with Highland dancing, music and food.

Why you should go: Between May and August, the Highland games take place all over Scotland, attracting tens of thousands of people. The origins of the games can be traced back to the 11th century. Today, the events are jam packed with traditional sporting competitions, Highland dancing, pipe bands, food and a thrilling atmosphere. You might see people compete in Highland sports such as the caber toss, tug o’ war, hammer throw and shot put – both of which are now included in the Olympics. Usually taking place at the weekend, many games continue well into the night with more music and ceilidhs.

2) Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Marianna Destarac from Guatemala City, Guatemala, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Good for: Discovering the story of Scotland, escaping the rain.

What it is: This art museum holds the national collection of portraits, all of Scottish people.

Why you should go: Housed in one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings, the National Portrait Gallery displays over 600 artworks from the Renaissance period up to present day. Come face-to-face with the people who’ve shaped Scotland’s fascinating past, present and future. You’ll see historical figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, as well as modern artworks of more recent Scottish personalities like Billy Connolly and Tilda Swinton. With free entry, this museum is the perfect rainy day activity if you’re looking for something cultural to do in the Scottish capital.

3) Slains Castle

Ruins of Slains Castle

Good for: Exploring a historical site, incredible views.

What it is: Famous castle ruins that were the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Why you should go: On the Cruden Bay coast, north of Aberdeen, Slains Castle is well worth a trip on a sunny day. Now mostly ruins, it was built in 1597 and is an example of one of the things Scotland’s famous for – castles! Bram Stoker was famously inspired by this castle for his classic novel Dracula, and you might recognise it from the first season of The Crown. It’s free to park nearby and explore the ruins. You can climb the spiral staircase, venture down into the dark basement and walk around the cliffs nearby, admiring the stunning views.

4) The Hidden Lane

Good for: Independent shopping, coffee breaks

What it is: A colourful corner of Glasgow, full of independent, quirky and creative businesses.

Why you should go: The Hidden Lane, just off Glasgow’s Argyle Street, is home to a colourful community of artists, designers, musicians, jewellers and more. You’ll discover independent boutiques and studios, as well as a tearoom, art gallery, pottery, hair salons, and two yoga studios! Wander around the shops and stalls, where you might pick up some upcycled clothes, Scottish gifts or homemade brownies from Berto’s. Or book in advance to join a craft class like stained glass or pottery.

5) National Museum of Scotland

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Good for: Exploring the natural world, science, technology, art, design and history all under one roof.

What it is: This Edinburgh museum is the UK’s most popular attraction outside of London.

Why you should go: Free to visit, the National Museum of Scotland boasts thousands of amazing objects on display across numerous galleries and exhibitions. Walk the catwalk in the Fashion and Style Gallery, marvel at ancient and new technology on the Communications floor and explore Scottish history from Palaeolithic times to the present day. Join a daily guided tour or take yourself on a self-guided trail. Themes include LGBTQIA+ Hidden Histories and a Rewilding Trail to find out about Scotland’s native species.

6) Boozy Ice Cream at Hoot the Redeemers

Good for: Cocktails with a twist in a unique setting.

What it is: A hidden dive bar on Edinburgh’s Hanover Street, with a variety of cocktails and themed drinks.

Why you should go: This hidden, underground 1950s-style dive bar is an Edinburgh experience you don’t want to miss. There’s an eclectic menu full of quirky alcoholic beverages, including boozy ice creams – if you’re feeling adventurous, try an Oreos over Dublin (cream liqueur, chocolate, Oreos and Guinness syrup). There’s also a special cocktail menu inspired by different tarot cards. The bar is known for its friendly staff and fun music, and you can also try the ice cream vending machine and Pinch ‘n’ Snip game to make your own cocktails. Make sure to book ahead as it can get busy.

7) Loch Ness

Urquhart Castle ruins, looking out over Loch Ness

Good for: Stunning scenery, wildlife and monster hunting.

What it is: Six miles from Inverness, Loch Ness is world famous for its dramatic scenery and the supposed home of the Loch Ness Monster.

Why you should go: Loch Ness is a large, freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, accessible by train or MegaBus. It’s one of the most famous landmarks in Scotland, not least for the tales of the mythical monster living in the depths of the dark water. If you’re not lucky enough to spot Nessie, you may still see some of the stunning local wildlife such as golden eagles, red squirrels and pine martens. On the shores of the loch sits Urquhart Castle, over 1,000 years old and full of history to be immersed in.

8) Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour

A close in Edinbrugh at night. There are narrow stone steps with an iron railing. It is dimly lit.

Good for: Discovering Edinburgh’s dark history.

What it is: A guided ghost tour where you’ll explore the city’s haunted Underground Vaults.

Why you should go: Known as the most haunted city in Britain, Edinburgh offers many ghost tours around its cemeteries and dark streets in the old town. Mercat Tours has exclusive access to the haunted Blair Street Underground Vaults, and you can join them on a day- or night-time tour to discover grisly tales of witchcraft, torture and restless spirits. Wander the vaults that provided unofficial living quarters for the poorest people back in the 1700s, as well as places for murderers to hide their victims. Mercat Tours take two hours and ends in Megget’s cellar for a drink and more spooky stories.

9) Glasgow’s Mural Trail

Good for: Admiring impressive street art, getting to know the city.

What it is: Started in 2008, this is a free walking trail where you’ll discover a fantastic array of street murals.

Why you should go: Glasgow has recently been named the 4th best UK city for street art (South Western Railway), and this walking trail is a great way to see some of the artwork breathing new, colourful life into the city’s alleyways. It takes up to three hours to experience all the murals, and the huge variety of styles and artists means there’s something to suit every taste. On the trail, you’ll spot murals celebrating recent events such as The Swimmer by artist Smug – a huge commission for the 2014 Commonwealth Games. There are two artworks dedicated to Billy Connolly, and many marking Glasgow’s sustainable aspirations as a city.

10) Avertical World Dundee

Good for: Keeping fit, having fun, challenging yourself.

What it is: This indoor climbing centre is the perfect place to build stamina and strength through bouldering and roped climbing.

Why you should go: Whether you're experienced or brand new to rock climbing, Avertical World has something for you. Both bouldering and roped climbing are available for different ability levels, with over 300 routes of both top rope and lead climbing. The centre offers drop-in sessions for seasoned climbers, as well as a selection of taster days and longer courses for you to learn the skills needed to reach your full climbing potential. There are good student discounts available and you can buy multipasses, so this is an activity perfect for a group of friends or as solo exercise.

Key info about Scotland

There are 19 diverse and internationally successful universities in Scotland, mostly based in the country’s main cities. Whether you’re passionate about performance, technologies or medicine, you’ll find what you’re looking for in one of the 4,500 degrees on offer.

The University of St Andrew’s is one of the world’s oldest institutions and comes out top of the Complete University Guide’s 2023 rankings for Scottish unis.

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, has six universities, all known for an outward-looking approach to building and strengthening connections. As a student in the city, you’ll be best placed for building a network valuable to your time at uni and after graduating.

Thinking about studying in Scotland but not sure what city is right for you? Learn more about the student cities on offer across the country.