This page is about looking after the place we so love exploring, and about staying safe while doing so.
1. Be safe
- Dress appropriately for the weather, which can change rapidly. This includes grippy footwear for rural and coastal areas, and waterproof clothing for outdoor activities.
- When planning a walk, choose a route well within your capabilities. For hill or rural walks, make sure you are properly equipped with a detailed map and compass, and the skills to use them correctly. Hillwalking when there is lying snow usually requires specialist winter equipment – these conditions may persist well into the warmer months, and are possible at almost any time of year.
- Scotland is generally a safe country, but you should still take the usual precautions about personal safety and looking after your belongings, particularly in urban areas.
- Read up on the 🔗 UK Highway Code if you are planning to drive a vehicle in Scotland. More info can be found on our own Driving in Scotland feature page.
2. Be responsible
- We all have a duty to look after the places we explore in Scotland. Leave no trace – take care not to damage the natural or built environment, and take all your rubbish away with you. Let’s keep Scotland beautiful!
- Always follow the 🔗 Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which covers where we can go and how to behave while doing so. Please make sure you are familiar with the code before you go on a trip.
- Park safely and legally – making sure not to block access for farm vehicles / emergency services etc.
3. Be canny
- Avoid crowd “blackspots” on weekends and bank holidays, especially if you can save them for a quieter time.
- Save money by booking longer train or coach journeys in advance.
- Need inspiration? Browse our Interactive Map for ideas – this site is called Scotland Off the Beaten Track for a reason!
And of course, have fun!
