Top 10 regions where most books are set across Scotland
VisitScotland has analysed over 11,500 books on the Goodreads database to reveal readers’ top-rated books set in Scotland and the regions most frequently depicted in literature.
Article Source: VisitScotland
Last Updated: 15 July 2024 12:34
Scotland has captivated storytellers for centuries: From the windswept moors of the Highlands to the lush landscapes of the Outer Hebrides and ancient abbeys of the Scottish Borders, every corner of Scotland has found its way into literature, resulting in thousands of books set across the whole country.
To highlight just how inspiring Scotland is, VisitScotland has analysed over 11,500 books on the Goodreads database to reveal readers’ top-rated books set in Scotland and the regions most frequently depicted in literature.
While the top regions include the Highlands, Edinburgh & The Lothians, and Glasgow & Clyde Valley, there are many hidden gems that inspire writers all across the country, including islands like St. Kilda and South Uist.
The top 10 regions where most books are set:
The analysis uncovers that The Highlands is the region where most books are set, with 2,815 books unfolding against its picturesque backdrop. Edinburgh & the Lothians emerges with 1,646 literary works situated amidst the historical allure of Scotland's capital. Glasgow & Clyde Valley stands strong with 1,154 books showcasing the rich diversity of Scotland's urban and rural landscapes.
Regions and Number of books set there
The Highlands - 2,815
Edinburgh & The Lothians - 1,646
Glasgow & The Clyde Valley - 1,154
Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire - 801
The Outer Hebrides - 770
Argyll & The Isles - 553
The Kingdom of Fife - 486
Scottish Borders - 483
Shetland - 434
Angus & Dundee - 414
Some literary highlights from the Goodreads analysis to explore:
The Highlands
With its endless selection of dramatic views, the Highlands provides a scenery that has long fascinated writers and readers alike. The findings indicate that the most frequently featured locations within the Highlands in literature are Skye, Inverness, and the Cairngorm Mountains. Other spots, such as Caithness and Dornoch have also served as significant sources of inspiration.
Be sure to pay a visit to Cawdor Castle near Nairn, which features in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, or the emotive battle site at Culloden, featured in countless historical novels.
According to the findings the highest-rated books by readers on Goodreads are the first two books in the Outlander series, in which Diana Gabaldon brought the Highlands to life transporting readers to 18th century Scotland. Outlander, the first book of the series, has over 1,050,054 ratings on Goodreads, making it evident that Gabaldon's novel has struck a chord with countless readers worldwide. Following in its predecessor's success, Dragonfly in Amber continues the epic saga with 355,378 ratings on Goodreads.
Edinburgh & The Lothians
Edinburgh has inspired authors with its ancient architecture, duality between the Old and New Towns and the mystical narrow streets. The top locations within the region are Edinburgh itself, Midlothian and East Lothian.
Make sure to visit Rosslyn Chapel in Midlothian, where Dan Brown based the finale of The Da Vinci Code. The book uses the chapel as a feature point in the quest for the location of the Holy Grail.
Among the top-rated books set in Edinburgh & The Lothians on Goodreads, two standout titles are One Day by David Nicholls with 336,555 ratings and Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh with 166,937.
One Day, now a popular Netflix series, follows Emma and Dexter over two decades, meeting annually on July 15th, starting from their graduation from the University of Edinburgh.
Set in the heart of Leith, Trainspotting offers a raw and gritty portrayal of Edinburgh, focusing on the lives of various residents of Leith.
Glasgow & Clyde Valley
Glasgow's bustling streets and vibrant culture are the ideal backdrop for storytelling, with its distinct neighbourhoods, unique blend of warmth and grit, and lively dialect. The locations within the region where most books are set are Glasgow, Lanarkshire and Firth of Clyde.
A must-see location for any literary enthusiast is the Glasgow Women’s Library, the only accredited museum in the UK dedicated to women’s lives, histories, and achievements.
Two of the Goodreads top-rated books set in Glasgow & Clyde Valley are Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman and Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, with an impressive 1,221,212 ratings, explores the life of Eleanor, who leads a solitary existence while navigating her daily routines in the city of Glasgow.
Shuggie Bain, with 150,742 ratings, follows the story of young Shuggie Bain and his relationship with his mother, Agnes, as they confront the harsh realities of life in working-class Glasgow in the 80s and 90s.
Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire
It's no surprise that authors find themselves irresistibly drawn to the beauty of this region. Its rocky coastline and sweeping sandy beaches stretch out to the North Sea, while its wild beauty holds a special place within many books. Among the locations where most books are set in the region are the University of Aberdeen, Kincardineshire and Deeside.
Explore the mystical landscapes of Cruden Bay, a coastal gem in Aberdeenshire, said to have inspired Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. Make sure to visit St Cyrus, a vast National Nature Reserve situated in The Mearns, an area popularised by Lewis Grassic Gibbon in his Sunset Song trilogy.
Some of the top-rated books on Goodreads set in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire are The Winter Sea and The Firebird, both by Susanna Kearsley.
The Winter Sea, with 66,077 ratings, follows author Carrie McClelland as she seeks inspiration for her latest novel in the atmospheric ruins of Slains Castle, on the coast of Cruden Bay. If you're inspired to visit, make sure you're extra careful and stick to paths, as the castle is located close to cliff edges.
While in The Firebird, with 28,727 ratings, protagonist Nicola Marter embarks on a journey of self-discovery and intrigue when she’s presented with a small wooden carving - the Firebird. The search for the firebird takes her from Slains Castle on the coast near Aberdeen to Belgium & on to Russia.
The Outer Hebrides
The Outer Hebrides has long been featured in Scottish literature; its untamed beauty is a perfect setting for stories of adventure and introspection. In the region, the locations with most books set against include Lewis, St. Kilda and South Uist.
Visit the Ness Harbour Breakwater and the rocky headland where The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse marks the edge of Europe.
According to the analysis, the top-rated books set in the region include the first two books in Peter May’s Lewis Trilogy.
The Blackhouse, with 39,764 ratings, follows detective Fin Macleod as he returns to the Isle of Lewis to investigate a brutal murder. Near the very north of the Isle of Lewis, at the Port of Ness Harbour, an old shed becomes the unsettling site where a bloodied corpse is discovered hanging within.
And The Lewis Man, with 26,865 ratings, sees Macleod drawn into another murder investigation on the Isle of Lewis, this time focusing on a body discovered buried in the peat bogs. Referenced in the book, a pivotal scene unfolds on Charlie's Beach, a beautiful strip of white sand located on the Isle of Eriskay.
All of Scotland's regions have their own literary gems, each offering unique scenic beauty and rich storytelling. Discover more of Scotland’s literary locations, based on Goodreads reader reviews below.
In Argyll & The Isles, Robert Louis Stevenson's Kidnapped takes readers on an adventurous journey through rugged landscapes. The Kingdom of Fife, with charming villages and coastal views, is the backdrop for Evie Dunmore's Portrait of a Scotsman. The Scottish Borders, steeped in history and folklore, come alive through the medieval ballad Thomas the Rhymer. In Shetland, Ann Cleeves' Red Bones immerses readers in a gripping mystery against the stark beauty of the islands. Angus & Dundee's rich cultural heritage is vividly portrayed in James Robertson's Joseph Knight. Each region offers a wealth of literary treasures and fascinating places to explore, making them must-visit destinations for any book lover.
Marc Lambert, Chief Executive of Scottish Book Trust says:
“Scotland’s wild landscapes and dramatic history have been a rich source of inspiration for writers for centuries, and readers around the world continue to be drawn to the literature of our country. There’s a long tradition within the Scots and Gaelic languages for storytelling inspired by place, and our writing talent continue to find a creative energy here.
“Every year we see for ourselves, through our New Writers Awards and Scotland’s Stories writing opportunity, that writers find the awe-inspiring scenery and bustling, vibrant cities a fantastic inspiration to create fictional worlds or to share real-life experiences, all of which contribute to the stories of a nation.”
To explore more about all the regions in Scotland and the key books set there, please visit: https://www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/attractions/arts-culture/scottish-literature/scotland-by-books
Sponsored Links
Latest Stirling News
Everything you need to know about Celtic Connections 2026
The renowned festival which every year transforms Glasgow in January into a must-visit destination for music lovers is now just over a week away.
READ MORE
Zizzi launches their January Birthday Jackpot
Zizzi's January Birthday Jackpot guarantees a special gift for adults born in January, with some lucky birthday guests receiving the jackpot prize - £100 towards their bill!
READ MORE
Litter picking dog charity aims to remove 44 million pieces of rubbish in 2026
Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution are hoped to boost the ranks of the Paws On Plastic charity to over 30,000 in 2026!
READ MORE
Brand new craft event encourages mindfulness, creativity and relaxation
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to an afternoon of creativity, connection, and cake this January, with a brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club.
READ MORE
Famous faces share their DofE Award memories in celebration of their 70th anniversary
Anyone with a connection to The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is being invited to celebrate the charity's 70th anniversary by sharing their fondest DofE memories.
READ MORE
Dry or Try January: Flight Club is your go to January social spot
Whether you're ditching the booze and going dry for a month or embracing Try January with the goal of experiencing new things, Flight Club, ticks all the boxes!
READ MORE
Christmas has arrived in Glasgow, The IRN BRU Carnival returns for its 106th year
Europe's largest indoor fun fair, The IRN-BRU Carnival, has opened to the public at Glasgow's SEC with its greatest show to date!
READ MORE
DF Concerts & Events launches The DF Academy
DF Concerts launches the DF Academy to strengthen pathways between education and Scotland's live music & events industry.
READ MORE
Stirling Visitor Levy Scheme approved
Stirling Council has approved a visitor levy scheme that will enable major new investment in the area’s tourism offering.
READ MORE
DF Concerts & Events celebrates a year of sustainable and inclusive events
DF Concerts & Events is celebrating the success of their sustainability initiatives delivered across their major summer events in 2025.
READ MORE
Scottish jazz talent in tune as award winners unveiled
The Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 celebrated the cream of the crop in the jazz scene on Sunday night, honouring outstanding artists and contributors at a memorable ceremony in Glasgow.
READ MORE
Anna Campbell Jones launches small batch Scottish botanical rum distilled in Glasgow
Interior designer, BBC Scotland's Home of the Year judge and entrepreneur Anna Campbell-Jones has released her first spirit.
READ MORE
Celebrate South Asian cinema this December with a selection of releases at Vue
There’s plenty for fans of South Asian cinema to enjoy at Vue this December, with a number of titles heading to the big screen.
READ MORE
Go Forth Stirling announce Longlist for 2026 Stirling Business Awards
The Go Forth team has announced the longlist for the 2026 Stirling Business Awards as voting begins to choose the winners of the annual honours.
READ MORE
Name the Loganair Christmas puffin and win a family adventure
Loganair, the UK’s leading regional airline, has launched a new festive competition to name the puffin starring in its emotional Christmas advert.
READ MORE
Loch Lomond Shores Christmas Festival is a Christmas cracker this year!
A family rollercoaster, giant snow globe, rides, stalls, street food and live entertainment makes Loch Lomond Shores FREE Christmas festival the perfect Christmas day out for all the family!
READ MORE
Young Stirlingshire golfers follow in footsteps of Ryder Cup heroes
Two young golfers from Stirlingshire are aiming to make history in Portugal in December when they tee off in the 2025 Justin Rose Telegraph Junior Golf Championship at Quinta do Lago.
READ MORE
Zizzi celebrates a fresh era with a new menu and app, by giving 132 people free pasta for one year
Zizzi has introduced a new food & drink menu across all its restaurants, launched a brand-new Zizzi app, and is giving 132 people free pasta for one year.
READ MORE
Festive Season at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection
Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched some new offerings designed for memorable Christmas stays, spectacular Hogmanay celebrations, and cozy winter escapes.
READ MORE
Bridge of Allan restaurant launches festive feast Take Home Christmas Box
The Meadowpark, one of Bridge of Allan’s most popular family restaurants, is bringing the magic of festive dining to homes around Stirling this Christmas.
READ MORE
Second year of Urban Forestry Programme opens across Scotland
Community groups, organisations and schools across Scotland are being invited to apply for grants of up to £100,000.
READ MORE
BID Launches Drop In Business Hour Session for Stirling Business Community
Go Forth Stirling has launched a new initiative for the city’s business community giving them the opportunity to consult with the BID team and other partners.
READ MORE
Residents and businesses invited to Forthside project drop in event
A drop-in session is being held on Friday (21 November) for local residents and businesses to learn more about the major redevelopment at Forthside.
READ MORE
Residents and businesses across Stirling urged to get ready for winter
Residents and businesses across Stirling are being urged to get ready for the impacts of wintry weather as the council steps up its preparations to keep people safe in adverse conditions.
READ MORE
The Doddie Weir match ball delivery is voted Greatest Murrayfield Moment
Doddie Weir’s emotional match ball delivery at Murrayfield in 2017 has been voted the greatest moment in the stadium’s 100-year history, after thousands of fans took part in a nationwide poll.
READ MORE
Stirling shoppers invited to celebrate their furry friends in new Thistles photography competition
Thistles, shopping centre in Stirling, has teamed up with a local Community Interest Company, Paws for Progress, to launch a heart-warming photography competition.
READ MORE
Much loved classic Scottish play, The Steamie, is set to return to venues in 2026
The Steamie has been scrubbed up ahead of making a return to theatres across the country next year as part of an exciting new chapter in its long-standing story in the theatre landscape.
READ MORE
Medea to tour Scotland in 2026
Bard in the Botanics will be launching their 25th Anniversary year with a Scotland-wide tour of their award-winning version of Medea, by Kathy McKean (after Euripides).
READ MORE
Imagine Theatre prepares for an exciting season of pantomimes across Scotland
Imagine Theatre proudly presents a spectacular lineup of family pantomimes across Scotland bursting with laughter, music, sparkle, and dance starring some of Scotland's best-loved entertainers!
READ MORE
Step into the magic at Dobbies Garden Centres
Dobbies Garden Centres has a fantastic line up of Santa’s Grotto and Quiet Grotto experiences, with an exciting North Pole adventure inspired theme, running from 23rd November - 24th December.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links