2. The ocean bounds Scotland on all sides expert for its southern, 60-mile-long border with England. Most of Scotland’s 787 islands are off the northwest coast. The country may be divided into the Highlands and Lowlands. The highest peak in the Highlands and in all Britain is Ben Nevis (4406 feet = 1343) with its head in cloud and snow towering above the little town of Fort William. No month has an average temperature below freezing. During the winter months there is usually sufficient snow for skiing. The east coast is drier than the west, where even in summer rainstorms and showers are frequest.

3. Scotland is famous the world over as a land of beautiful scenery – of hills and valleys, of misty lochs and tumbling rivers, unspoilt beaches and charming fishing villages. Fishing remains an important activity in Scotland. More than half of the total landings of fish in Britain are made at Scottish ports. Scotland has about one-third of Britain’s total agricultural land, but 71 per cent consist of hill grazing for castle and sheep. Some of the traditional Scottish industries, such as coal, steel and shipbuilding, are declining. Other traditional manufactures, such as high quality tweeds and other textiles, and food and drink products, remain important.

4. Edinburg Edinburg has been the capital of Scotland since 1437. It is an impressive city, situated in one of the most beautiful settings in the world, between the hills and the sea. It is a city of classical architecture and spectacular views, a place of many historic and literary associations.

5. Edinburg Castle Edinburg Castle stands high on the massive grey Castle Rock. The oldest part of the building dates back to about 1100. In the Castle are the Honours of Scotland – the Scottish Crown, scepter and sword of state, the oldest royal regalia in Europe. The imposing Great Hall is still used for banquets and has one of the finest hammerbeam ceiling in Britain.

6. The Palace of Holyrood The Palace of Holyrood is the official residence of the Queen when she is in Scotland. It is one of the most interesting places in Edinburg. Many events of the long history of Scotland are associated with Holyrood.

7. Loch Ness Loch Ness is probably Scotland’s best known lake, because of the Loch Ness Monster which may live in the deep water. A large prehistoric creature is said to be living in the lake, but it is not scientifically proved to exist. A popular nickname for the Loch Ness Monster is Nessie.

8. The Burns Country The Burns Country is an area where Scotland’s national poet wrote many of the world’s most tender love songs. The thatched cottage at Alloway where Robert Burns was born (1759) is the starting point of a heritage trail that links together 40 places associated with the poet.