Driving in Scotland

A Guide To Driving In Scotland

What side of the road do I drive on in Scotland ?

Always drive on the left hand side of the road .

What is the driving speed limit in Scotland ?

Speed limits are often signposted – look out for a circular sign with a red border and number ( in miles per hour). If there is no signpost, national speed limits will apply which are:

Motorways  70mph (112km/h) for cars & motorhomes.

Dual Carriageways  70mph (112km/h) for cars & motorhomes.

Built Up Areas  30mph (48km/h) for cars & motorhomes, howver be aware it is common around residential areas and schools that the limit is 20mph (32km/h) and this will be clearly signposted.

Outside Built up Areas  60 mph (96km/h) for cars & motorhomes. 

What licence do I need to drive in Scotland ?

If you are coming from a European Union country, then as long as you have a valid licence you can drive any type of vehicle listed on your license in Scotland 

What is the drink driving limit in Scotland ?

Driving under the influence of alcohol is taken very seriously in Scotland and the UK, and there are heavy penalties for those found to be above the legal blood/alcohol limit.

The legal limit is just 50mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood.

How long does it take to drive around Scotland ?

You could spend as long as you like exploring Scotland. It is a relatively small county so won’t take too long to travel between destinations. There are many ideas for great road trip ideas throughout  this web site, and links to take you to more detailed web sites to give you further ideas and inspiration. 

How do I plan a trip around Scotland ?

There are many web site to help you do this if you visit the AA route planner , it will provide information on routes, distances and driving times. 

Where will I find petrol stations on my route ?

In the big cities you will find 24 hour petrol stations. In the country there are fewer petrol stations, so its always a good idea to keep your motorhome topped up if you are planning to travel to more remote areas.

All our motorhomes are fuelled with Diesel which you will always find in stations with a black pump handle, and it is priced in litres. When returning your vehicle to us, it should be full of diesel and you will find a petrol station very close to our location.

What is it like driving in the winter in Scotland ?

Scotlands coldest months are generally December, January and February, when the average max temperature reaches around 5 degrees c (41f). Freexing temperatures are common during the winter and snow can be frequent on the higher ground throughout Scotland.

Driving Hazards to watch out for .

Wildlife is very common throughout Scotland and both farm and wildlife animals can be encountered on rural roads.

Roundabouts, roads & bridges

Roundabouts are common in Scotland and you must turn left when approaching the round about. You must give way to vehicles coming from your right hand side.

There are no toll roads or toll bridges in Scotland .

Some rural roads are single lane, but will have passing places so traffic coming from the opposite direction can pass safely.

Driving in towns and cities

Speed cameras are common in all areas around Scotland .

Bus lanes are used in some cities and should not be driven in. It is common to receive a ticket for driving in a bus lane, and they are often poorly signed.

Laws & Rules

Seats belts are compulsory for all drivers & passengers in the vehicle including the rear.

It is illegal to use a hand held mobile phone whilst driving.

Children under 12 who are under 135cm tall should use a child seat appropriate for their weight. 

You can also find further information on Dirivng in the Uk here and the North Coast 500 web site also provides advice on driving a motorhome. Remember we will offer loads of advice as well offer the opportunity to have a practice drive before you leave with your motorhome.