CLICK HERE TO ADD YOUR EVENT

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.

Top 10 regions where most books are set across Scotland

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

TGC Leisure
Hilton Glasgow

Latest Stirling News

Find your next business opportunity at Forth Valley Meet the Real Buyer event

Find your next business opportunity at Forth Valley Meet the Real Buyer event

Local businesses and social enterprises across the Forth Valley are being invited to explore supply chain opportunities in a free-to-attend event at Alloa Town Hall.

READ MORE
Final countdown to the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run 2025 is on

Final countdown to the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run 2025 is on

Scotland's greatest running event, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, will return to Glasgow next month, and there’s still time to secure your place.

READ MORE
Marstons and Tom Shepherd join forces once more to serve up the best ever pub pie

Marstons and Tom Shepherd join forces once more to serve up the best ever pub pie

Marston's and Michelin-starred chef Tom Shepherd have teamed up once more to serve up The Best Ever Pub Pie to locals across the country.

READ MORE
Edinburgh Fringe smash hit Oran embarks on first UK tour

Edinburgh Fringe smash hit Oran embarks on first UK tour

Òran, the award-winning sell-out hit of the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe embarks on its first ever UK tour this autumn as company Wonder Fools take their work to a host of venues across Scotland.

READ MORE
Fair Trade Stirling going the distance in cycling fundraiser for Malawi

Fair Trade Stirling going the distance in cycling fundraiser for Malawi

Fair Trade Stirling is holding a sponsored bike ride to raise money for its long-term partners in the Karonga District of Malawi.

READ MORE
Iconic films to take centre stage at Vue venues in Scotland

Iconic films to take centre stage at Vue venues in Scotland

Iconic movies celebrating key milestones this year are returning to Vue for a limited run - including Steven Spielberg classic Jaws.

READ MORE
20 expert sessions at The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show

20 expert sessions at The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show

The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show will be packed with expert speakers when it returns to the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston on 4th – 5th October 2025.

READ MORE
A Taste of Loch Lomond Book launches with live cooking demo at the Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival

A Taste of Loch Lomond Book launches with live cooking demo at the Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival

Love Loch Lomond will officially launch its new publication, A Taste of Loch Lomond – Stories and Flavours from the Bonnie Banks, at the Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival on Sunday 7th September.

READ MORE
Seriously fun ideas for your work Christmas Party

Seriously fun ideas for your work Christmas Party

It might only be September, but the C-word is not too far away, so it's time to start thinking about planning the annual office Christmas shindig before everything gets booked up!

READ MORE
Business Gateway launches its first ever Scottish Start Up Month

Business Gateway launches its first ever Scottish Start Up Month

Business Gateway, Scotland's national business support service, has launched Scottish Start-Up Month, a nationwide campaign to celebrate Scotland's entrepreneurial spirit.

READ MORE
Go Forth Stirling Launch 2026 Business Awards

Go Forth Stirling Launch 2026 Business Awards

Stirling’s outstanding independent and national retailers are set to be recognised and rewarded at the city’s 2026 Business Awards.

READ MORE
Drop in sessions begin on draft Visitor Levy scheme for Stirling

Drop in sessions begin on draft Visitor Levy scheme for Stirling

Businesses, visitors and residents are urged to feedback on Stirling’s draft Visitor Levy scheme as drop-in sessions begin.

READ MORE
Fresh new line up for one of the biggest FREE food and drink festivals in Scotland

Fresh new line up for one of the biggest FREE food and drink festivals in Scotland

Vikings, a pie eating competition, new celebrated chef and dog & duck shows set to bring new energy to Loch Lomond Food and Drink Festival this September.

READ MORE
From pouring pints to the red carpet: The Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 crowns its hospitality stars!

From pouring pints to the red carpet: The Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 crowns its hospitality stars!

The winners of the 2025 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards were unveiled on the 26th of August at a glittering, Oscars-themed ceremony held at the Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow.

READ MORE
Stirling Photography Festival goes Beyond with exhibitions across Stirlingshire

Stirling Photography Festival goes Beyond with exhibitions across Stirlingshire

The Stirling Photography Festival is proud to announce the launch of a series of exhibitions in rural Stirling as part of their 2025 programme.

READ MORE
Stirling marks 30th Anniversary of Braveheart

Stirling marks 30th Anniversary of Braveheart

Braveheart continues to be a huge draw for visitors to Scotland as Stirling prepares to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Oscar-winning epic.

READ MORE
Best Croissant Competition returns for 2025

Best Croissant Competition returns for 2025

The Edinburgh Butter Company has announced the return of its ‘Scotland’s Best Croissant’ competition on Monday 13th October.

READ MORE
New Forth Valley Five Campaign Launches to Champion Local Food and Drink

New Forth Valley Five Campaign Launches to Champion Local Food and Drink

Businesses across Stirling and beyond are being invited to take the ‘Forth Valley Five’ pledge: a bold new initiative designed to celebrate local food and drink and boost community wealth.

READ MORE
Historic Environment Scotland launches Talking About Heritage

Historic Environment Scotland launches Talking About Heritage

People across Scotland invited to take part in national conversation about heritage.

READ MORE
Clans @ The Croft team mountain bike enduro event returns

Clans @ The Croft team mountain bike enduro event returns

A multiple Clan skirmish of epic proportions is on the cards again for mountain bike Enduro riders when Clans @ The Croft, the first team event on the UK's Enduro calendar, returns to Creiff.

READ MORE
Tickets now on sale for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Tickets now on sale for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo closes the drawbridge on its 75th anniversary Show, as tickets for next year go on sale.

READ MORE
Call for sites and ideas for new Local Development Plan in Stirling

Call for sites and ideas for new Local Development Plan in Stirling

Residents, community groups and other key stakeholders will have the opportunity to shape Stirling’s future as the consultation on the area’s new Local Development Plan enters crucial new phase.

READ MORE
Primark celebrates 50 years in Scotland with a wee nod to loyal Scots in all stores today

Primark celebrates 50 years in Scotland with a wee nod to loyal Scots in all stores today

Scottish shoppers will hardly believe it when they see it today as Primark finally relents on one of its biggest brand debates after 50 years.

READ MORE
Christmas at Crieff Hydro returns with magical line up of festive activities

Christmas at Crieff Hydro returns with magical line up of festive activities

Scotland's best loved family resort, Crieff Hydro, has unveiled details of a specially curated programme of events as it prepares to welcome guests over the festive period.

READ MORE
Scots Language Awards 2025 shortlist unveiled

Scots Language Awards 2025 shortlist unveiled

The shortlist for the Scots Language Awards 2025 has been unveiled, with figures from Scottish literature, theatre, education and business all in the running for awards at the annual ceremony.

READ MORE
Innis & Gunn wins double gold at the World Beer Awards 2025

Innis & Gunn wins double gold at the World Beer Awards 2025

Innis & Gunn has claimed double gold on the global stage, winning best in Scotland for the second year running at the World Beer Awards.

READ MORE
Santa Claus is coming to Dobbies

Santa Claus is coming to Dobbies

From exciting encounters with Santa himself to hands-on workshops and joyful family moments, Dobbies is the destination for festive fun this Christmas!

READ MORE
Singalong screening of K Pop Demon Hunters heading to Vue venues in Scotland, with tickets on sale now

Singalong screening of K Pop Demon Hunters heading to Vue venues in Scotland, with tickets on sale now

One of the most-watched films on Netflix is heading to Vue next weekend for a special sing-along event – with tickets on sale now!

READ MORE
Free September gardening workshops at Dobbies

Free September gardening workshops at Dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres is inspiring gardeners across Scotland this September with two free-to-attend gardening workshops, Little Seedlings Club and Grow How, suitable for all ages and abilities.

READ MORE
Finalists announced for Scottish Bar & Pubs Awards 2025

Finalists announced for Scottish Bar & Pubs Awards 2025

Lights, Pints, Action! Scotland's pubs go for gold at the hospitality industry's very own oscars.

READ MORE

Sponsored Links

Hilton Glasgow
Hostelworld
ATG

Sponsored Links

TGC Leisure
Hilton Glasgow
Hilton Glasgow
Hostelworld
ATG

Popular Events

Fundraiser Quiz - Action in Mind
Come along and join Action in Mind for their fundraising Quiz night at Stirling County Rugby Football Club on Friday 19th September!
Meet The Gruffalo Storytelling Event
Join Whirly Gig at Cloybank for a fun and engaging session including a fox in a suit, a rather dashing owl, and who knows.. maybe there is such a thing as a Gruffal.....O!
Eddi Reader
Celebrating over 40 years as a live performer, Eddi Reader returns to the Albert Halls, Stirling in April!
The Countess of Fife
Fay Fife will be joined by some of Scotland's finest musicians when 5-piece outfit The Countess of Fife perform at the Tolbooth Stirling on 11th September!
Houseplant Market - Stirling
The Houseplant Sale is coming back to Stirling! Taking place at the University of Stirling outside Queens Court for 1 day only on Tuesday 16th September!

Popular Listings

Macrobert Arts Centre Stirling Castle The Albert Halls Stirling The National Wallace Monument Tolbooth Stirling