Activities in Scotland

Enjoy exciting activities in Scotland on land, in the water and in the air. With a beautiful landscape filled with mountains, hills, lochs and rivers, Scotland is the perfect destination for a range of activities. From white water rafting to kayaking, archery to 4x4 driving, fishing to golf, there are a range of activities to suit everyone, whatever your skill or taste.

As Scotland is The Home of Golf, it wouldn’t be right to come here and not experience some of the phenomenal golf courses such as the Old Course at St Andrews, or some of the newer courses such as the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles.

Take to the water for a gentle paddle around the coast in a sea kayak, or get the adrenaline pumping in a fast-paced ride along a river with a variety of adventure activities in Scotland.

Whether you fancy teaching the kids to fish, hitting the slopes for some skiing and snowboarding, or enjoying the passion and spirit at a rugby match, there a range of sports and activities in Scotland.

Watersports

Surrounded by a beautiful coastline and with hundreds of rivers and lochs, Scotland is the perfect destination for those looking for watersports adventures. Whether it’s a high octane rafting experience or a kayak around the coast, Scotland has it all.

Surfer on the waves off a beach on the Isle of Lewis

Cycling

Go cycling in Scotland and experience the beauty of the country’s landscapes, seascapes, towns and cities. Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the country by following the many dedicated path networks.

Two cyclists on a local cycling Trail

Golf

Scotland is The Home of Golf. The game has flourished here for six centuries and remains one of the nation’s key attractions. There is no finer place for a golf break than the country that gave golf to the world.

The 13th hole of the Dunskey Golf Course in Portpatrick

Mountain biking

Scotland is one of the world’s top mountain biking destinations. Bring the family for a gentle ride, challenge yourself on the advanced tracks or build up your confidence on the beginners' trails. The choice is yours.

Mountain biker on the Red Trail at the Heart Stane at Dalbeattie Mountain Biking Centre

Walking

Whether you want a gentle stroll in the countryside among the trees and rivers, a breezy coastal stroll along sandy beaches or a walk through the wild mountain and loch scenery, Scotland has all of this in abundance.

Footpath to the summit of Mither Tap o' Bennachie

Fishing

Scotland is one of the world’s leading fishing destinations with excellent opportunities for all abilities to land a catch across the country. Head to a secluded river, charter a boat in search of skate, or even hire a ghillie to practice your technique.

An angler on the River Dee

Sailing

Scotland's world-class boating and watersports environment is one of clean air and water, superb coastal scenery, miles of high-quality canals, excellent facilities and a superb welcome.

Cluster of small yachts in full sail

Scottish rugby

Scotland has a passion for rugby, no matter what level of the game. From the full internationals against the world’s best right down to weekly club games, you’ll find plenty of enthusiasm, drama and excitement, both on and off the pitch.

International rugby match at Murrayfield Stadium between Scotland and France

Quick Finder

Search Accommodation

Or type a Location/Postcode

Select if you want to check for availability on a specific date

Check-in date
Guests in Room/Unit 1 Child Ages
Add Another Room/Unit

Search What's On

Or type a Location/Postcode
Start Date
End Date

Search things to do

Or type a Location/Postcode

Search Food & Drink

Or type a Location/Postcode
Download your copy of the Active in Scotland 2013 brochure.
Download a brochure ››

View the official 2013 guide to adventure activities in Scotland

Screenshot of people white water rafting from video
Play Video
White water rafting

Watch a video of activities in Scotland

Advertisement
A skier upside down in mid air at Glenshee Ski Centre

Snowsports

Scotland is home to five ski centres and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy a range of snowsports in the off season.

Four walkers on the Fife Coastal Path with St Monans in the background

Scotland's Great Trails

Explore Scotland on foot on one of Scotland’s Great Trails, a network of long distance routes across the country.

A silhouette of a biker from the Animal - Braun stung team jumping in the air against a dramatic sky at Cairn Gorm Mountain

Mountain biking events

Scotland hosts an exciting variety of mountain biking events, the highlight being Fort William’s UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.

Group of hunters in stalking gear stand in front of a turretted castle

Country sports

Come and experience Scotland’s world-renowned hunting, shooting and fishing amongst the stunning landscape and scenery.

Download your copy of the Active in Scotland 2013 brochure.

Request a brochure

Use this form to request the Active in Scotland brochure.

Scottish horse events and activities

Jockeys racing (image courtesy of Scottish Racing)
Horse racing in Scotland

Discover where to find Scottish racecourses, including venues near Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Borders.

Three horse riders against the backdrop of Sligachan
Horse riding

Explore trekking paths through glens or have an exhilarating ride on a beach and see why Scotland is ideal for horse riding.

What's On
All events