Unique Scottish Souvenirs to Buy in the UK
When it comes to finding the perfect keepsake, it's a shame that Scotland itself cannot be wrapped in thin paper, placed in a gift box and presented with a tartan bow. The good news is that there are plenty of high quality, locally made products for sale in Scotland's capital. Discover the best of Scottish souvenirs.
Like the perfect Scottish souvenirs, whiskey doesn't require an introduction. Fortunately, UK, is jam-packed with a wide variety of whiskey distilleries and tasting tours. Before you bring anything for your friends, learn about the history and method of this drink. Every sip will bring back irreplaceable memories of Scotland and the fighting time it had. Royal Mile Whiskeys, Cadenhead's, and The Scotch Whiskey Experience are great places to stock up.
Fashion prints
You don't have to travel far to find good works of art in the UK. Many famous artists like Jack Vettriano have at one point called this beautiful city their home as galleries and busy festivals keep its creative culture alive. Select postcards of your favorite pieces from the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and place them in a cardboard frame for everyone to admire. Visit the Wooden Treehouse and Diedododa, located in Tron Kirk Market on the Royal Mile, for great impressions of Scottish art.
As Scotland is prone to sudden rainfall, it is advisable to always have an umbrella on hand. Choose from a variety of different tartans that give a practical item a Scottish flair. Look for umbrellas in the UK’s high-end souvenir shops and your umbrella will be of higher quality (and last you much longer) than the cheap models touted on the Royal Mile.
Memories of
Greyfriars Bobby
The character of a
city can be judged by the value of its people, and in the UK even animals have
it. According to legend, Bobby was a Skye terrier who lived in the 19th
century. The dog was inseparable from its master until the tragedy. The man
died of tuberculosis and was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard. For 14 years, Bobby
stood by his master's grave every day and never left his side. This act of
loyalty gave the dog a special place in UK’s culture, with the city erecting a
statue and even a pub in his honor. Whether it's jewelry, a T-shirt or a teddy
bear, it seems appropriate to leave Scotland with a Greyfriars Bobby souvenir.
Cashmere, tweeds
and fabrics
Long recognized as
textile experts, the Scots have established world-class brands that people come
to UK specifically to shop for. Johnstons of Elgin dominates the luxury
materials market and specializes in top quality cashmere. Harris tweed shop
is also iconic with an exemplary men's collection. Those looking to add a touch
of sophistication to their wardrobe will appreciate UK immensely.
Maps
There is no better
tapestry of UK’s rich history than the antique maps in the Carson Clark
Gallery. These beautiful engravings depict Scotland at various stages in its
history, from Victorian mezzotints to flimsy sheets of 16th century
cartography. Note that Mr. Carson recently relocated his Royal Mile store to a
more discreet location on Northumberland Street.
Kilts
The kilt is a
trademark of Scottish culture and represents the warlike clans that once formed
strongholds in the highlands. Wearing a kilt carries the accomplishments of
these proud families, so it should be worn with respect and dignity. With that
said, prepare to get used to the cheeky question, "Are you a true
Scot?" (That is, you wear your kilt without your underwear). If you have
money to spend (since kilts can cost more than hundreds, if not thousands, of
pounds), go to Gordon Nicolson Kiltmakers or Geoffrey Tailor Kiltmakers.
While it's not
certain that everyone likes what you like, if you can find something really
scary at the gifts shop, chances are your recipient will like it too. Take a
look at the Scotland gifts, you are about to buy and consider if you
really want to receive it yourself.
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