Driving Tips in Scotland

Top tips for driving in Scotland!

The NC500 is an amazing road trip route, however, the roads are very narrow and very windy. There are lots of single track roads, particularly in the North West region.

In our experience the locals drive extremely fast, even around sharp bends and on narrow roads, so do take care and give them plenty of space.

• In Scotland they drive on the left-hand side of the road.

• The speed limit is in miles per hour and often 60mph on a number of roads, however, road conditions may not allow for that, so do drive sensibly.

• If you're hiring a car and you don't want to drive a manual, make sure you request an automatic if needed!

• Always fill up on petrol when you get a chance. Some stretches of road on the NC500 you won't see a petrol station for miles.

  

• Scotland has a ZERO tolerance for drinking and driving with very strict rules on the alcohol limit and it is closely monitored. Best practice is to pick a designated driver who won't be drinking, especially important if visiting any distilleries!

• Don't park in passing places.

• Allow faster cars to overtake you if it is safe to do.

• A single track road is where traffic can drive in either direction with limited passing places available so vehicles can pass one another.

• Please obey the road signs, especially those that indicate that roads are not suitable for motor homes or caravans.

  

• In the UK it is against the law to drive and use your mobile phone at the same time.

• Make sure you allow plenty of time to get from A to B, especially as driving on the narrow roads will take longer than expected.

• Respect local residents and do not park in front of houses, drives or garages.

• Be prepared to meet cyclists, hikers, sheep, cattle, deer on the roads, so do take care.

  

• There are a lot of blind summits and sharp blind corners, so take your time and don't rush.

• In the UK, the minimum legal age you can hold a driving license is 17.

• You must stop at all STOP signs and red traffic lights.

• Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seat belt.

• We would recommend you check the UK Highway code to see all rules and regulations.

• In the UK at fuel stations you will need to fill up the vehicle yourself, unlike in some other countries. Note that some of the 'petrol stations' on the NC500 are just a simple pump that are not manned and are 'pay at pump'. It very often looks as though the place closed down ten years prior, but they do work!