20+ Best Books About Scotland to Read Before Your Trip

Whether you are planning a trip or simply dreaming of misty highlands and ancient castles, we have gathered the best books about Scotland. In this post, we’ll explore a curated collection of books about Scotland that will transport you there, even before you pack your bags.

From gripping novels and insightful histories to delightful children’s books and cookbooks, there’s something for every traveler and book lover. Each book we’ve selected not only tells a story or shares knowledge about Scotland but also enhances your upcoming trip, making your experience more enriching and immersive.

I had the pleasure of traveling to Scotland with my husband a couple of months ago, and as the founder of Trip Scholars, I immersed myself in learning about the country before we left. Here I’ve gathered some of the best Scotland books and asked other travel writers to share their recomended favorites too. So, let’s dive into these pages that promise to take you on an enriching Scottish adventure, one book at a time!

Scottish Novels

February 17, 2025 10:13 pm

Outlander, Diana Gabaldon

Outlander is one of the most popular book series set in Scotland. The nine-book collection (with a planned 10th and final novel) is a historical fantasy novel that follows Claire Beauchamp.

Initially set during World War II, Claire finds herself on a second honeymoon to Inverness, Scotland. But things soon go awry when she touches a set of standing stones on the hill of Craigh na Dun. Traveling through time, she lands in 18th-century Scotland, where she meets highlander Jamie Fraser, and adventure and romance ensue.

I’d recommend Outlander to someone planning to visit Scotland because although Diana Gabaldon took creative liberties with the story, she also did a wonderful job researching 18th-century Scotland. She effortlessly weaves the tension between Scotland and England during this period into the story. She also features real-life locations you can visit, such as Inverness, which is regarded as the capital of the Highlands.

Reading these award winning novels set in Scotland gives readers a look at Clan life and highlights the importance of Highland culture for the Scotts. Knowing this history enhances a reader’s trip as Scotland was greatly affected by the relations between the two neighboring countries and it can provide context on why Scotland is the way it is today.

Contributed by Michelle Jensen at Travel HerStory

Stirling Castle, photo by Travel HerStory

Shuggie Bain, Douglas Stuart

Shuggie Bain is a novel by Douglas Stuart. It is set in Glasgow in the 1980s and follows the life of a young boy called Shuggie who grows up in a working-class family.

After his father walks out his mother, Agnes, turns to drink. The story is written through Shuggie’s eyes. He is the youngest of three and the book details how he and his siblings try to save his mother. It is a story of poverty, addiction and family relationships.

Reading the book will give you an appreciation for the social and economic challenges many Scots faced in the 1980s, particularly in Glasgow. The book has won several awards including the Booker Prize in 2020.

When you start reading you won’t be able to put it down. This makes it the perfect book to bring whilst on a train journey from Glasgow or when taking a ferry to Mull or any of the Scottish islands.

Contributed by Kristin from Scotland Less Explored

February 17, 2025 10:13 pm

This is Where I Am, Karen Campbell 

 This is Where I Am by Karen Campbell is a compelling novel that delves into the depths of human connection and vividly portrays Glasgow, Scotland. Through the story of Abdi, a Somali refugee, and Deborah, a Scottish widow, Campbell paints a rich and multifaceted picture of the city, its people, and its culture.

It is one of the great books on Glasgow. The city serves as more than just a backdrop in the novel; it is a character in its own right, with its streets, parks, and neighborhoods coming alive through Campbell’s descriptive prose. Readers are treated to a glimpse of everyday life in Glasgow, from its bustling markets to its quiet corners, providing a nuanced and authentic depiction of the city.

For travelers exploring Glasgow, This is Where I Am offers a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture. Through the eyes of Abdi and Deborah, readers are invited to discover its beauty and complexity, making it a must-read for anyone planning a trip to Scotland.

Contributed by Victoria at Guide Your Travel

Photo by Guide Your Travel

Sunset Song, Part 1 of A Scots Quair, Lewis Grassic Gibbon

Sunset Song, the first of the trilogy A Scots Quair, is set in North-east Scotland in the early 20th century.

The story follows Chris Guthrie growing into a young woman going through many hardships. The Guthrie family settles in Kinraddie, where they work the land as do most of their neighbours. But life becomes harder still as Britain goes to war.

You cannot help but get caught up in the emotions of the characters and their stories, especially Chris. 

If you’re visiting rural Scotland, this book gives an excellent insight into how life was for farmers and crofters who lived in the dilapidated buildings you’ll see on your travels. Stand in one and imagine you are in Kinraddie about to go out and work the field or milk the cows!

Although Sunset Song is set near Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire, the book reflects life in much of rural Scotland at the time.

Considered one of the best novels about Scotland, it also includes words of local dialect, which you’ll pick up along the way and even find yourself using them. To hear it read correctly in the local accent, you can listen to it on Audibles. 

Contributed by Alison Watt at Everything Arisaig

Historic rural house, photo by Everything Arisaig

The Lost Queen, Signe Pike

The Lost Queen is the first in a series of three books (two currently published), and it instantly captivated me. It’s a historical fiction series about Langoureth, a Scottish Queen from the sixth century who has long been forgotten. The author, Signe Pike, used the few historical accounts we have on the Lost Queen to craft the story of her rise to power in ancient Scotland.

The first two books of this series are set in Scotland, specifically around Glasgow. If you’re planning to visit this area, I imagine the Glasgow Cathedral is likely on your itinerary. This cathedral is dedicated to Saint Mungo and is where he’s buried. Saint Mungo also plays a pivotal role in the The Lost Queen and its successor, The Forgotten Kingdom. There are several parts of the books that take place around the Cathedral and the Necropolis cemetery behind it. Reading these books before you visit Glasgow will make you feel like you’re in ancient Scotland as you explore this area in present day!

Contributed by Sarah Arnstein at Sarah Seeks Adventure

Glasgow Cathedral, photo by Sarah Seeks Adventure

Greyfriar’s Bobby, Eleanor Atkinson

If you’ve already done some research on Edinburgh then you may have come across Greyfriars Kirkyard and seeing the statue of Greyfriars Bobby as one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh.

Before visiting the city, you need to have a read of the short book called Greyfriar’s Bobby by Eleanor Atkinson which is a true story about a small Skye terrier from 1912 that won’t stop at anything to protect his owner’s final resting place.

People travel from all over the world to admire his statue in the Kirkyard and it is believed that if you rub the statue’s nose it will bring good luck. To keep the statue in good condition, instead leave a stick at the bottom of the statue in remembrance of Bobby.

Read up on Greyfriar’s Bobby and learn more about the true loyalty and love that dogs can hold for their owners and why his statue is so well admired even today. This book gives you a great understanding of the history of the Kirkyard and the areas around it before travelling to Edinburgh

Contributed by Plain2Plane

Greyfriar’s Bobby gravesite, photo by Plane2Plane

The Harry Potter series, J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter is one of the most beloved book series in the world, chronicling the adventures of the titular character, who was orphaned as a young boy but discovers on his 11th birthday that he’s actually a wizard. He is sent to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and, over the course of seven years, he and his wizarding friends take on the evil Lord Voldemort, who is responsible for the death of Harry’s parents and hundreds of others.  

The books do an excellent job of immersing the reader into this fantastical world, but Rowling was actually heavily inspired by Scotland, where she wrote the majority of the series. In fact, she’s confirmed that Hogwarts was meant to be in the rolling green hills of the Scottish Highlands.

There’s tons of places and things you can do around the country that either inspired parts of the book or were even used in the filming of the Harry Potter movies. For example, you can actually take the Hogwarts Express train in Scotland, where you’ll ride the same model of vintage train car as used in the movies through the Highlands (and even past a number of filming locations!). Alternatively, there are a number of places to visit in Edinburgh that influenced elements of the book, such as Edinburgh Castle, which is rumored to have inspired Hogwarts, or the Elephant House Cafe, where Rowling penned much of the series. 

All in all, reading the Harry Potter series before your trip to Scotland definitely helps you view this incredible country through an even more magical lens.

Contributed by Jess of Uprooted Traveler

The Jacobite Express made famous by the Harry Potter films, photo by Scotland Less Explored


Classic Scottish Literature

Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, Robert Louis Stevenson

As you prepare for your trip to Scotland, take the time to lose yourself in the pages of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde and allow yourself to be swept away by Robert Louis Stevenson’s book. This novella unravels the intriguing tale of Dr. Henry Jekyll, a renowned scientist, and his sinister counterpart, Mr. Edward Hyde.

  
The inspiration behind this book is Deacon Brodie, a historical figure born in Edinburgh. For those who are planning a visit to this beautiful city, a stop at Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is a must during the Edinburgh Bus Tour.

  
It is also believed that another source of inspiration for this iconic novel came from Stevenson’s close friendship with Eugene Chantrelle, a French teacher based in Edinburgh. Robert Louis Stevenson’s connections to Edinburgh, undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his literary works. This friendship may have provided Stevenson with insights into the complexities of human nature and duality, which are the main topics in Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde.

Contributed by Paulina at UK Every Day

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern, photo by UK Everyday

The Waverly Novels by Sir Walter Scott

Walter Scott is one of Scotland’s most treasured novelists.  Ivanhoe and Rob Roy are probably his most famous novels but Waverley Novels is his first novel and considered to be the first historical novel in the English language.  

Waverley Novels tells the story of an English Lord’s nephew and heir, growing up in his Uncle’s library where he learned about the world by reading classical and romantic stories in multiple languages. His father secures him a commission in the Army and he is sent to Scotland.  Traveling through the Highlands, he is swept up in Bonny Prince Charlie’s Jacobite Rebellion. 

At times, the book learned Waverley is traveling through Scotland as if it is another country and with its own language and culture.  Scott portrays Scotland as having a  sense of nationhood and the Scottish culture revealed in the Novels seems to be the first step in Scott’s revival and promotion of what it means to be Scottish in a modern world.

Having read Waverley Novels before I went to Scotland gave a chance to see the people of the Highlands in a formative time of their history.  walking through Waverley Station in Edinburgh certainly holds more significance having read one of the best books about Scotland.

Contributed by Brandon Forrest

Macbeth, William Shakespeare

For anyone planning a trip to Scotland, Macbeth by William Shakespeare is a must-read. This timeless classic delves into the dark and mysterious world of ambition, power, and fate, set against the dramatic backdrop of medieval Scotland. Shakespeare’s masterful storytelling and rich character development make Macbeth a riveting read that continues to captivate audiences centuries after it was written.

Macbeth tells the story of a Scottish general whose ambition leads him down a path of murder and madness. Prompted by a prophecy from three witches and driven by his wife, Macbeth kills King Duncan to take the throne. His reign is marked by paranoia, guilt, and further violence as he struggles to maintain his power. The play explores themes of ambition, power, and the supernatural, all set within the rugged and eerie landscapes of Scotland.

Reading Macbeth before visiting Scotland will enhance your trip by providing historical and cultural context to the places you visit. The eerie settings of the play, such as the Highlands and the castles, come to life when you explore Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and ancient fortresses. Understanding the story adds a layer of intrigue and depth to your travels, making sites like Glamis Castle, said to be haunted and associated with the play, even more fascinating. Dive into this tragic tale and let it enrich your Scottish adventure.

Nonfiction Books on Scotland’s Islands

Sea Room, Adam Nicolson


The barren islands, their perilous beauty combined with Adam Nicolson’s poetic words, grip a reader so strongly that you do not realise how fast you devour Sea Room’s 400 or so pages. But do you know what exactly makes you hooked to the Sea Room? It is like everyone’s childhood fantasy being written, except this time, it is not fantasy at all. 

Adam Nicolson came in possession of 3 islands, known as Shiant islands, 5 miles off the coast of Lewis in Scotland. This part of the world was viewed as “Uninhabited islands for sale. Outer Hebrides, 600 acres, Puffins and seals.’’ at least according to the newspaper ad that Adam’s father answered in the 1930s. But for Adam, the islands were far more than uninhabited 600 acres. 

For him, in his own words, ‘’One of the reasons I loved the Shiants was that they were away from the world of definition.’’ That’s why, when I found Sea Room on my parent’s bookshelf, I couldn’t put it down. It is one of the best books in Scotland and introduced me to the side of the country that I had no idea existed. The best part is that Shiant Islands are now open to the public for a day trip. If you plan to visit Scotland in spring, exploring the islands with such a fascinating geological, historical, and political backdrop would be a perfect addition to your trip. 

Contributed by Lavinia of Continent Hop

Ponies at the Edge of the World by Catherine Munro

Ponies at the Edge of the World was a birthday gift from a friend, before my greatly anticipated trip to Shetland. I can’t recommend reading this book enough!

The author, Catherine, moves to Shetland for a year, to continue research on her PHD, on Shetland breeds. She was especially interested in ponies, which she studies and presents to the reader in a very interesting way, including their cultural importance in Shetland, locals’ love and appreciation for them, as well as different breeds and their special features and character. 

Having started reading the introduction, I immediately felt connection to Catherine who described her inclination and longing to discover the magical Shetland with its habitants, human and animal. As Catherine travels thru the islands, she tells us captivating stories of discovery and her adventures on specific islands, all in an engaging and funny way. I found one especially interesting, her trip to Foula. Planning a trip to this remote island myself, I was glad to read about Catherine’s experience of Foula’s weather quirks, potential travel issues (getting stuck on the island), her encounter of Bonxies (Great Skua), stories and generosity shared by Foula’s habitants. 

I think that everyone planning their trip to Shetland archipelago should read Ponies at the Edge of the World, It is a great book on Scotland and is not only funny and entertaining, but also informative and discovering. 

Contributed by Ela @ stunningoutdoors.com

Ponies on Shetland, photo by Stunningoutdoors

Books on Scotland History

A History of Scotland, Neil Oliver

A History of Scotland by Neil Oliver is one of the best books about Scotland’s history. Oliver, a renowned historian and archaeologist, brings the story of Scotland to life with his engaging and dynamic storytelling style. His passion for the subject is evident on every page, making this book as entertaining as it is informative.

I read this book before and during our own trip and recommend it as one of the best books from Scotland. It covers extensive history of Scotland from its ancient geologic roots to modern times, exploring key events, figures, and cultural shifts that have shaped the nation. Oliver’s narrative takes readers through the Roman invasions, the Wars of Independence, the Reformation, and the Jacobite uprisings, right up to the political changes of the 20th century. His ability to weave complex historical events into a captivating narrative makes this book a page-turner.

Reading A History of Scotland before your trip will deepen your understanding of the places you visit. You’ll see Edinburgh Castle, the battlefields of Bannockburn, and the rugged Highlands through a new lens, enriched by the historical context Oliver provides. His vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes bring Scotland’s history to life, enhancing your appreciation for the country’s heritage and adding depth to your travel experience. This book will ensure that your journey through Scotland is not just a trip, but a rich, educational adventure.

Photo by Awesometraveler

How Scots Invented the Modern World

How the Scots Invented the Modern World is a fascinating exploration of the country’s profound influence on the modern world, making it one of the best travel books about Scotland. Herman’s compelling writing style and thorough research illuminate how the Scots have shaped many aspects of contemporary life, from modern democracy, and free market capitalism to philosophy, science, and industry.

This book explores the Scottish Enlightenment and its impact on the world, highlighting key figures who shaped and formed our modern society, such as Adam Smith, James Watt, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Andrew Carnegie. Herman traces the contributions of Scots in various fields, including economics, medicine, engineering, and literature, showing how their innovations and ideas laid the groundwork for the modern era. The book also touches on the global diaspora of Scots and their role in shaping nations like the United States, Canada, and Australia.

There are lessons to be learned and stories to tell within the book. As you explore cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, you’ll recognize the intellectual and industrial heritage that still resonates today. This book will enhance your travel experience by connecting Scotland’s past innovations with its present-day culture, making your journey through Scotland both enlightening and inspiring.

Contributed by Ossama at Awesometraveler

Hume’s statue in Edinburgh, photo by Trip Scholars
Adam Smith’s gravesite, photo by Trip Scholars

Travel Books on Scotland

Rick Steves Scotland, Rick Steves & Cameron Hewitt

If you’re gearing up for a trip to Scotland, Rick Steves Scotland one of the top books about Scotland travel . The book helped us plan our own amazing recent trip. It also provides lots of great reading beforehand about the nature, history, and culture of the country.

Rick Steves Scotland provides comprehensive coverage of the country, including must-see sights like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and the Highlands. Steves’ enthusiasm for Scotland is infectious, and his detailed practical tips help you plan an itinerary that is just right for you.

The book features walking tours and advice on where to eat and stay. If you like his educational style, I also recommend his other Scotland resources on his T.V. show, podcast, and the free audio tour: Edinburgh: Royal Mile Walk.

Reading Rick Steves Scotland before your trip will give you a wealth of knowledge that transforms your travel experience from simply visiting to truly understanding Scotland. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the historical landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and local customs, ensuring your journey through Scotland is enriched with insightful and practical advice.

Explore and Discover Scotland, Dougie Cunningham

While this book is aimed at photographers it is a great resource for anyone who wants to find beautiful and less visited locations when visiting Scotland.  The book covers everything from islands and mountains to stone circles and castles.  Each location includes an introductory description with a small piece of history or description of the landscape and then takes you through the best viewpoints for photographs.  Even without a camera these are stunning locations.  There are full details about parking including a postcode or what3words, any walking that is needed and the facilities nearby.  There is also accessibility details and any safety considerations that are needed.

The book covers the whole of Scotland, but one of my favourite locations, the Orkney Islands are covered in detail.  The book includes the stunning Yesnaby Cliffs and the historic Ring of Brodgar.  Both are easy to find on a map, but the guidebook included the best time of day to visit and places away from the main path for the best views.

Contributed by Suzanne at Meandering Wild

Orkney Beach, photo by Meandering Wild

Books About Scotland’s Food and Drink

The Hebridean Baker: Recipes and Wee Stories from the Scottish Islands, Coinneach MacLeod 

The Scottish Isles, especially the Hebrides, serve as the backdrop for centuries of Viking history in Scotland. The Vikings, known for their seafaring prowess, held substantial power in the Hebrides during early Scottish history in the Highlands. The Hebridean Baker is more than just a Scottish cookbook; it’s a lesson in Norse history. The book helps readers understand the Norse influences alive today not only in the food but also in the close-knit island communities. This is a perfect coffee table book, as stunning photos capture both Scottish cuisine and the dramatic landscapes of Scotland.

I enjoyed reading this Scotland book before my trip not only because it helped me identify authentic cultural staples in restaurants but also because it deepened my appreciation for the Scottish Isles. Primed with this knowledge, I fell even more in love with them when I visited the Isle of Mull and the Isle of Iona in the Inner Hebrides. When I return to Scotland someday, I will definitely return to the Hebrides. And in the meantime, I’ll be practicing my Scottish cooking skills!

Contributed by Carmen at Basic Economy B

Malt Whisky: A Comprehensive Guide for Both Novice and Connoisseur, Graham Nown

A dram of whisky is a rich, tasty history and geography lesson for adults. Whisky (without an “e” in Scotland) is a tightly woven thread in the fabric of Scottish culture and Malt Whisky: A Comprehensive Guide for Both Novice and Connoisseur is an informative pre-trip guide to appreciating the history, lore, and language of Scotland’s national drink. Learn the art of distilling, how to taste whisky, and what makes different regions and distilleries unique.

Taste testing is a valid form of travel research! The book describes how varied landscapes and regional ingredients produce distinctive whisky flavours and serves as a delightful companion to taste your way through Scotland’s five whisky regions. Enhance your travel itinerary by exploring whisky taste preferences and taking a distillery tour. Often identified by a pagoda-like chimney, there are ~120 active distilleries in Scotland. The book includes a list of distilleries that welcome visitors, offering a great starting place for further online research.

Contributed by Tracy Smyth at travelbugtonic 

Oban Distillery, Phot by TravelBugTonic

Children’s Books Set in Scotland

Nessie: The Loch Ness Monster, Richard Brassey

This is one of the classic Scottish books to get your little ones excited about a trip to Scotland. The book tells the history of the Loch Ness monster, one of Scotland’s most enduring mysteries. 

Through engaging illustrations and easy to read language, young readers are taken on a journey through the history and legends surrounding Loch Ness and the elusive Nessie.

The book is both playful and educational as it tells the true stories of alleged Loch Ness monster sightings. Tales of people trying to catch Nessie or take her photograph are amusing and communicate how significant the Loch Ness monster mythology has been to Scotland for hundreds of years. 

Children will also learn about Loch Ness more generally; where it is, how it was formed and how deep, dark and mysterious its waters are. 

Whether you are a believer or a sceptic, Nessie: The Loch Ness Monster is guaranteed to create some intrigue around visiting Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle for children. For adults, it is an enjoyable peek into the charming lore of this Scottish icon.

Contributed by Liza at Atlas Rambler Travel Guides

Secret of the Kelpie, Lari Don

Scotland has a rich history inextricably woven into the many myths and legends that have arisen over the centuries. A firm favourite that has stood the test of time is The Secret of the Kelpie by author Lari Don. Set against the backdrop of one of Scotland’s beautiful lochs, it tells the tale of a group of siblings playing by the water when a stunning white horse approaches. All but the youngest, Flora, fall enchanted and climb onto its back before it turns and carries them towards the water.

Sensing something is wrong, Flora acts quickly to save her brothers and sisters from what is no horse; it is the legendary, shape-shifting Kelpie. Don’t worry, we’re not going to spoil the surprise, but this book is an enthralling read and adds a real sense of something truly mystical to any visit to Scotland.

To see a Kelpie for yourself, take a trip to The Helix Park in Falkirk, home to the largest pair of equine sculptures anywhere in the world. You’ll find plenty to do for the whole family including a ride on the world’s only rotating boat lift or, if you’re brave enough, a tour into the Kelpies themselves!

Contributed by Katie and Tom from Trekking the Dream!

The Kelpies, photo by Trekking the Dream!

The Best Books About Scotland

I hope you found the perfect books to read before your trip to Scotland and that they help you make the most of your travels! Trip Scholars is committed to helping you learn more through travel, both about your destinations and about yourself. If you are looking for a wider range of resources, you’ll love this post written by a former tour guide in Scotland. We also have a wide range of articles to support your particular travel interests. Find advice and engaging activities on ancestry travel, family travel to Scotland, and visiting historical sites and museums. We even have suggestions for crafting your trip around your favorite books!

Do you plan to visit Scotland or have you in the past? Do you enjoy reading books before you travel? Have you found any favorites in this article? Tell me about it in the comments, I would love to hear!

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12 thoughts on “20+ Best Books About Scotland to Read Before Your Trip”

  1. what a great selection! I love the idea of reading books to learn about a country before you visit — I usually end up doing the reverse, and read books afterward! I’d especially love to read The Lost Queen, This is Where I Am, and Outlander! Thanks for this great list!

  2. What a comprehensive list! I’ve read several of these books and have The Lost Queen on my TBR. Now I have to add Ponies at the Edge of the World.

  3. I love the concept of your blog! My days of traveling without a clue are over; it’s so much more fun to dive into the literature and gain some knowledge of a place before experiencing it firsthand. In Scotland, I absolutely adored Edinburgh and Islay but now I need to do some reading and return!

    • Thanks a lot for your kind comment, Alyssa! This blog is definitely a labor of love for me. And, I’m with you– it is such a rich experience to understand more about the places I visit. I also loved Edinburgh and Islay and can’t wait to go back!

  4. I love the wide range of books, even including children’s books. What a great way to also get the kids excited for an upcoming trip.

    • Thanks, I was grateful for all of the contributions from other travel writers! I also love finding ways to get kids invested in travels, it makes it so much more fun!

  5. Wow great list! I never thought about reading a book about Scotland but found this so interesting. Thanks for the article! Also glad Harry Potter made it to the list 😉

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