If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, or you simply want to know more about the home of the Highlands, we’ve put together ten fun facts you may not know about Scotland.
So, if you’re plotting your route to one of the many Scottish holiday parks, here are some fun facts you could be recalling on your drive up.
- Did you know… Scotland is home to the shortest commercial flight in the world?
Taking just 47 seconds, crossing 1.5 miles, is a flight that takes you over many of the small islands in Scotland, taking passengers from Westray to Papa Westray in Orkney.
- Did you know… Scotland has almost 800 islands to its name?
That’s right! There are approximately 790 islands within the Scottish border, with around 660 of those islands uninhabited. To see most of the islands, you’ll need to book your travel by air or ferry in advance.
- Did you know… Scotland has a national animal and it’s not what you think!
Of all the animals that roam within the Scottish lands, the national animal of Scotland is actually a mythical creature – a unicorn!
However, this is for good reason. A unicorn is elusive and impossible to catch, which represents Scotland’s history – hard to repress or conquer!
- Did you know… One of Europe’s oldest trees lives in Scotland?
Named the Fortingall Yew, this tree is believed to be between 3,000 and 9,000 years old and is thought to have connections to early Christianity in Scotland.
In 1769, the yew’s circumference measured a staggering 52ft but has reduced somewhat over time.
- Did you know… Edinburgh was the first city in the world to have its own fire brigade?
That’s right! In 1824, Edinburgh became the first city in the world to have its very own fire brigade. London didn’t formally establish their brigade until much later in 1833.
- Did you know… Loch Ness isn’t the deepest loch in Scotland?
Despite the myths and legends that surround Loch Ness, Loch Morar is actually the deepest loch in Scotland. The deepest part of Loch Morar measures a whopping 1077ft/328m.
If this wasn’t enough, Loch Ness isn’t the only loch to potentially house a monster… Loch Morar is apparently home to its own monster, called Morag.
- Did you know… the first coloured photograph was taken in Scotland?
The first of many coloured photographs in the world was taken in 1861 by scientist James Clerk Maxwell, in Scotland. Suitably, the image was of a tartan ribbon.
- Did you know… Golf was invented in Scotland?
Whether you’re a fan of golf or not, it may surprise you to know that the sport was invented in the 15th century in Scotland.
It’s another reason why many players refer to St Andrews as the ‘home of golf’.
- Did you know… You can thank the Scots for your toast and fridge?
In 1748, Scottish scientist William Cullen was credited for the invention of the world’s first fridge. To add to the kitchen appliances, later in 1893, Scottish scientist Alan MacMasters developed the blueprints for the first toaster!
- Did you know… A Scotsman invented basketball?
Whilst teaching in Massachusetts in the 1890s, Scots-Canadian Dr James Naismith invented the iconic court game.
