Everyday friendliness
The Scots love people – and they like to make others feel at home. You’ll find an enthusiastic friendliness in so many places. Ask a stranger for directions, buy something in a local shop, eat or drink in a pub or restaurant or put on the kettle in your workplace kitchen and you’ll be met with a smiling face and a friendly “Let me help”, “Tell me more about yourself” or “How are you?”
Culture and identity
Although we certainly have a strong national identity, this doesn’t stop us from embracing new cultures and new people. More than 170 languages are spoken in Scotland; from Punjabi to Polish, Cantonese to Gaelic these languages reflect a modern and inclusive Scotland. After all, we’re a rich and diverse country which sees many different cultures from across the world living in harmony together.
Find out more about Scottish culture
We love a party
Scotland knows how to party – and extends an invitation to all. From large Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) street parties and music and film festivals to more intimate Burns’ Suppers and St Andrew’s Day celebrations, there is always a fun event to attend.
Getting together, sharing good times, ‘having a blether’ and welcoming others with open arms give Scotland its reputation for being a happy and friendly country.
Really, it’s no wonder that more than 40 million people around the world claim Scottish ancestry – and so many want to be a part of our Scottish family.
Learn more about Scotland's events and festivals
Ancestry
More than 40 million people world-wide claim Scottish ancestry. From Australia and New Zealand, through Europe to the USA and Canada, there are people all over the world with ancestral roots, affinity or connections to Scotland.
Famous Scots
Scotland has produced a large number of well-known people across all industries from philosophy, music, film and science. How many of these do you recognise?