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 Edinburgh News
Discover December Events at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
From Christmas events to Artist in Residence, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's events taking place in this festive season!
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
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo appoints new Marketing Director
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has appointed Johna Penman as its Marketing Director, leading the organisation’s Brand, Box Office, Marketing and Communications functions.
READ MORE
Fingal Sails into Christmas Retaining Two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence
Christmas has come early for Scotland’s only five-star luxury floating hotel, Fingal, after retaining two prestigious Rosettes for culinary excellence
READ MORE
George Clooney returns to Edinburgh to speak at the 2026 British Business Awards and Social Bite Fundraising Dinner
The annual British Business Awards will take place on 30th April 2026 and will feature a special guest appearance and conversation with award-winning actor and humanitarian, George Clooney.
READ MORE
Helen Sharman and Hamza Yassin to appear at Edinburgh Science Festival 2026
The first British astronaut Helen Sharman and wildlife cameraman, presenter and author Hamza Yassin will headline Edinburgh Science Festival 2026 line-up.
READ MORE
10p pizzas from Civerinos as Deliveroo marks 10th Scottish anniversary
Raise a dram to a decade of Deliveroo: Civerinos and Deliveroo launch 10p pizzas to celebrate 10 years of feeding the people of Scotland.
READ MORE
Capital Theatres aims to share festive magic and wonder with a line up for everyone
Capital Theatres celebrates the festive season with entertainment for all ages, including enchanting magical family shows, world-class dance and a specially crafted Christmas Care Home Tour.
READ MORE
Lidl launching free gift wrapping stations across the UK
Lidl has unveiled its first-ever ‘Lidl Wrapped’ - a celebration of some of the nation's favourite buys, brought to life as limited-edition Christmas wrapping paper
READ MORE
Edinburgh brewery presents ultimate Christmas tipple for craft beer lovers
Christmas has come early for Scotland's beer fans following the release of a limited-edition craft ale from a leading Edinburgh microbrewery.
READ MORE
Meet Festive Film Favourites at Fort Kinnaird in December
Christmas is already in full swing at Fort Kinnaird, and the festivities are set to get even more magical as a line-up of much-loved characters visit the centre for the first time this December.
READ MORE
Edinburgh bar to raise Cash For Kids after Christmas nutcracker theft
Copper Blossom on George Street Edinburgh has launched a new festive cocktail in aid of a children’s charity following the theft of its eight-foot Christmas nutcracker statue.
READ MORE
Embrace the spirit of Christmas on International Volunteer Day
Christmas is a time for giving, and what better opportunity to discover new ways to give back to your community than on Friday 5th December, International Volunteer Day.
READ MORE
WIN! An Edinburgh Christmas Experience for 4
Heard the news? OMNi is inviting everyone to get into the festive spirit with an exclusive Christmas Prize Draw.
READ MORE
Dynamic Earth calls for support as Big Give Match Funding opens
Dynamic Earth has launched its 2025 Big Give Christmas Challenge campaign to boost STEM access for young people.
READ MORE
Ring in Hogmanay with darts, dancing, and bottomless pizza
If your New Year's resolution is to have more fun, start early at Flight Club!
READ MORE
Aldi colleague awarded medal from the King after fundraising efforts
An Aldi colleague based in Bathgate has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of her incredible fundraising efforts, helping to raise almost £50,000 for local charities.
READ MORE
Fort Kinnaird joins forces with local charities to support people who feel lonely at Christmas
New research has revealed one in two people (56 per cent) living in Edinburgh have experienced feelings of loneliness at Christmas.
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
Santas little helpers, assemble
Santa Paws, in partnership with Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, is calling out for the city’s dogs to take part in an attempt to break the world record for the most dogs in Christmas jumpers.
READ MORE
The Entertainer opens brand new store in Edinburgh
Britain’s toy shop, The Entertainer, has officially opened a brand-new store at The Gyle Shopping Centre.
READ MORE
Brighten up the nights with the magical Winter Windows
Winter Windows are back at Edinburgh’s Christmas! An arts competition for Edinburgh schoolchildren of all ages, it is an annual showcase of their creativity and skills.
READ MORE
Edinburgh residents encouraged to nominate a charity to receive a festive financial boost
Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards is giving away £120,000 as part of its annual 12 Days of Giving Christmas campaign and nominations are now open.
READ MORE
Volunteer Centre East Lothian reopens just in time for the season of goodwill
The team at Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) have thrown open their doors after an extensive renovation and are welcoming back local residents, volunteers and community groups.
READ MORE
Newtongrange Primary School pupils reap the benefits of outdoor learning with a newly extended playground
Pupils at a Midlothian school have given their resounding approval to their newly extended playground, which includes access to green space and trim trail equipment.
READ MORE
Fort Kinnaird crowns winner of competition to design labels for homegrown honey
Nine-year-old Elodie from Niddrie Mill Primary School has been named the winner of a recent competition launched by Fort Kinnaird to design a label for the honey produced by its resident beehives.
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
Edinburghs Hogmanay reveals International Partnership & Artist Exchange Programme with Basque Country
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay today reveals the full line-up for its much-loved First Footin’ programme on New Year’s Day, with a landmark international collaboration led by Valtos topping the bill.
READ MORE
The Main Course: Serving Up a Slice of Italy in the Heart of Gullane this Christmas
Planning a Christmas lunch with colleagues, a family gathering or a relaxed night out with friends? The Main Course offers comfort, warmth and a menu that brings people back year after year.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links