Scotland is not just a beautiful country, with moody epic landscapes, friendly people and beautiful castles; it also boasts a unique cuisine. The water around Scotland is teaming with the freshest seafood, the countryside is home to some of the best whisky distilleries in the world, and the lochs are home to world-famous oysters. Scotland's culinary heritage shouldn't be underestimated because its simple, local products are world-class.  

Haggis Neeps and Tatties 

This is the classic meal to order in a gastropub in Scotland. The haggis is, well never mind what it contains, but it honestly tastes good. Okay, well it is a sheep's intestine filled with a selection of sheep's liver, heart, and lungs, oats, herbs, spices and onions. But it honestly tastes and has the consistency of seasoned minced meat, so do not be afraid. Then the neeps, well they are turnips, mashed with butter and a little cracked black pepper and nutmeg, then the tatties are the mashed potatoes. All three elements of the dish are served with an indulgent swig of whiskey sauce, which is whiskey, cream and seasoning. This may sound like an unusual combination of foods, but it really works, and once you taste it you'll be craving it after you leave.  

Whisky

For those new to whisky, it can be a tough drink to get into, whisky's robust flavour can be too much for some people's palates. But if you find yourself in Scotland, take the time to learn about this fantastic drink, and you may begin to appreciate its taste. The different regions of Scotland produce different types of whiskey with various characteristics. Whisky, from the western isles, for example, is very peaty and smoky, whereas those from Speyside are much smoother and easier to swallow for beginners. Also, when in Scotland, please note that people do not tend to drink whisky with ice; in fact, many connoisseurs would consider it sacrilege! Instead, in many traditional pubs in Scotland, you will find water dispensers or bottled water on the bar. Feel free to add a small quantity of water to your whisky as the locals do. Not only does this make your drink last longer, but it also opens up the flavours to make it more palatable and easier to distinguish the various characteristics in the glass. For those people who can't handle the strength, then ask the bartender to make you a hot toddy instead. This warm drink is perfect for cold winter days when you have a little sniffle as the tipple consists of lemon juice, honey, cloves, hot water and a wee dram of whisky. 

Scrumptious Scottish Seafood  

Scottish seafood is spectacular; however, even British people aren't aware of the variety and quality of seafood in the waters around Scotland. And unfortunately, most of the seafood caught in Scotland is exported to countries like France, Spain and Portugal, who have a bigger appetite for it. Scottish salmon has been farmed for about 50 years now, and the standards are very high. Typically fed with better quality feed, Scottish salmon farming is less intensive than other parts of the world - and fewer fish in a cage means they swim further and develop more muscle. Loch Fyne Oysters are also renowned for their quality and creamy taste. Loch Fyne Oyster restaurant and deli, situated about an hour's drive west of Glasgow, near Cairndow, is worth the trip for the scenery and world-class oyster starting at just 50p per oysters, which don't come fresher than this. 

Something Scottish and sweet

For dessert, the quintessential choice is Cranachan, a traditional Scottish pudding that was originally a celebration of the harvest, made with the raspberries harvested in June. The dessert is composed of cream and fresh seasonal raspberries Scottish oats and whisky of course! For a sweet snack with a cup of tea, you can't find a better biscuit than Scottish shortbread. These buttery and crumbly biscuits are famous the world over and the best accompaniment to tea or coffee you can find.   

Ferries to Scotland 

Use our online booking system to find your ferry ticket to Scotland. On the Netferry website, we cover many destinations in Scotland including Cairnryan. Our website can help you find out about timetables, onboard accommodation, crossing durations and prices. We will even provide you with a quote, freeze the price and let you purchase your tickets a few days later. What could be more convenient?

Book your ferry tickets with Netferry now!