Scottish traditions which are still alive and kicking

Days out, Events, Food and Drink, Activity

Posted by Kate W on 25th July 2022

Scottish traditions which are still alive and kicking

Scotland’s cultural identity is a rich and colourful tapestry of traditions that have been passed down through many generations over time. There are a few classics that you are sure to know of - bagpipes, haggis and kilts to name a few - but there are many other Scottish traditions waiting to be discovered too, and visitors can witness the breathtaking reality of centuries-old traditions being showcased first hand.

Click the button below to get inspired by our collection of cottages in Scotland or read on to plan a trip to this remarkable country, so you can see, taste and experience these fantastic Scottish traditions during your stay. 

Scottish cottages


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Traditional Scottish music 

The iconic bagpipes

The iconic bagpipes

When reminiscing about Scotland’s cultures and traditions, it makes sense to start with the rousing sounds of the bagpipes.

Part of the culture since the 13th century, bagpiping has been kept alive and fresh with the help of the annual World Pipe Band Championships held on Glasgow Green and at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. 

In recent years the revival of native Scottish dance has also revitalised the instrument and has given it a new purpose. Some traditional Scottish music that can be played on the bagpipes include strathspeys, reels, hornpipes and jigs, all tunes used for Highland dancing.


Scottish tenor drum

Scottish tenor drum

If you are lucky enough to catch a Scottish pipe band in action, look out for the Scottish tenor drum. These peculiar drums can be tuned, and as a staple of the Scottish military, bands are often played alongside and tuned to the bagpipes. 


The fiddle and the Ceilidh dances

The fiddle and the Ceilidh dances 

The shape of the fiddle makes this instrument a lot more versatile than similar instruments like the violin, and this versatility makes it perfect for playing music to accompany the quick and wild Ceilidh dances popular throughout Scotland. The fiddle also helped popularise the peculiar musical note, the Scotch Snap.


Scottish folk music

Scottish folk music 

The folk music genre can be found throughout the world and is typically music that's been passed down and developed by small groups as part of a rural tradition. Scottish folk music can vary from region to region, however, characteristics of Scottish folk music include pentatonic modes, double-tonic tunes, cyclical melodies, and the much-loved Scotch Snap - the fiddle we mentioned above is a key part of this music tradition! 

Whilst on your Scotland holiday, you will be given the opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland’s proud musical heritage at the various events and festivals held throughout the year such as Celtic Connections and Perthshire Amber Festival to name a few.

Glasgow has no shortage of fantastic watering holes and music venues where you can listen to some traditional Scottish music being played - you may even pass a musician busking away on the streets as you explore this ancient city. 

Glasgow cottages


Traditional Scottish clothing

Plaid and tartan kilts

Plaid and tartan kilts

If you think the kilt is restricted to Scottish bagpipe players, then think again. The kilt which is a traditional male garment has its roots in the 16th century, but in recent years you can still see its significance in all corners of Scotland, with plenty of places available where you can pick up your own authentically woven tartan kilt if you really want to indulge in the culture.

You can also learn about the influence and history of this clothing item at the Scottish Tartans Museum in Edinburgh. The tartan kilt has even made it into high fashion, having been showcased in designer catwalk collections with the likes of Vivienne Westwood showcasing examples.

Edinburgh cottages


Harris Tweed

Harris Tweed

This traditional cloth actually has its own authority board created in 1993 by an Act of Parliament to ensure that, in order to be classed as Harris Tweed, the cloth must have been hand-woven and finished in the Outer Hebrides. It's a great quality fabric that's been worn by everyone from farmers to royalty, and can be made into any kind of garment - Harris Tweed blazers are particularly popular. 

Outer Hebrides cottages


Fair Isle knit

Fair Isle Knit

This traditional technique originated on the tiny and remote island of Fair Isle, located in the middle of North Sea, halfway between Orkney and the Shetland Mainland. It's a particularly special knit as you'll end up with a double layer of wool, making your woolly jumpers especially warm and cosy - a necessity in the chilly far north of Scotland!

This technique isn't restricted to Fair Isle, however, anyone can pick it up and if you're a keen knitter it may be one for you to try out. 

Why not knit an extra cosy cardigan to wear on a trip to discover northern Scotland? Venture to the Outer Hebrides, the Fair Isle or another of the magical Scottish islands scattered off the north of this country. 

North Scotland cottages


Traditional Scottish food

Haggis

Haggis

What better way to celebrate traditional Scottish food culture than with the wonderful classic, haggis? Often served up at Burn's Night (more on that below!), this hearty dish is usually made up of sheep offal, onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt - all encased and cooked in an animal's stomach, however, the fillings can range from region to region. There are versions that include lamb, pork, beef, and rabbit, and there are plenty of gluten-free and vegan recipes too! 

Haggis is traditionally served with mashed neeps and tatties - otherwise known as swede and turnips - and is perhaps the most famous dish from Scotland. If you're a keen foodie, make sure you get to taste-test this dish during your holiday. 


Cranachan

Cranachan

This delicious sugary dessert was traditionally a celebration of the harvest and was enjoyed straight after the raspberry harvest in June. A layered dessert made up of a combination of oats, cream, whisky and, of course, raspberries, this is a foodie option that you could eat while out or try whipping up yourself while at home. 


Traditional Scottish tablet

Traditional Scottish tablet

While it looks similar to fudge, this tasty Scottish sweet treat has a slightly crumblier, more brittle texture, while fudge is far softer. It's classically flavoured with vanilla and sprinkled with nuts, but can come in a range of different flavours - including lemon sherbert, chocolate orange, and even Irn Bru flavour! 

The port city of Aberdeen is a wonderful foodie hotspot, perfect for seafood and iconic Angus beef, and full of award-winning places to eat. Head to Aberdeen and plan to try some of Scotland's traditional food classics. 

Aberdeen cottages


Traditional Scottish events 

Traditional Scottish events

Highland Games 

If you are wanting to delve into the history of traditional sporting activities in Scotland, then you won’t have to do too much searching, with there being plenty of opportunities to attend Highland Games throughout the summer months - the oldest of which is believed to be the Braemar Gathering who's visitors usually include the royal family. 

The Highland Games stay true to their roots even in the modern day, with athletes competing in sports such as the tossing o’ the caber and hammer throw. This spectacular event dates back to the 11th century and is one not to be missed.

Highland cottages


Burns Night

Burns Night 

You will never be short of traditional events and ceremonies when holidaying in Scotland; one of the key celebrations in the region occurs annually on the 25th of January and goes by the name of Burns Night. This spectacle celebrates the life and poetry of Robert Burns with an appropriate Burns-style culinary supper alongside it. 

Attending this event will allow you to hear Old Scots spoken as the host recites the Address to a Haggis, typically followed by performances of the bard’s best-loved songs and poems. You really will feel like you have stepped back in time.


Hogmanay

Hogmanay

Hogmanay, which is held to celebrate New Year, is also one not to be missed and will allow you to say hello to the new year in the traditional Scottish style. Many of the Scottish festivals and events that were celebrated hundreds of years ago are still alive and kicking to this day and can provide fascinating experiences.

There are loads of fantastic Hogmanay celebrations across Scotland but watching the fireworks explode above the skyline of one of Scotland's magnificent cities is an unbeatable experience and a great way to see in New Year. 


Discover these centuries-old traditions

Get involved in Scottish culture and tradition on a holiday to this wonderful country! Listen to the bagpipes being played by a local on the streets of Glasgow, or tuck into a delicious haggis dinner at a top Scottish restaurant. 

We have wonderful holiday cottages all across Scotland for you to stay in - from luxurious coastal cottages to rustic hot tub lodges, you'll be spoilt for choice! 

Scottish cottages

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.