Scotland and England are rich in history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie, a drink connoisseur, or just love trying new things, there are plenty of delicious experiences to be had in these two countries. Here’s a guide to discovering the best food and drink, including a couple of our personal favorite places to visit in Scotland and England.
Try Traditional Scottish Dishes
Scotland is famous for its hearty cuisine, including dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, Cullen skink, Cullenbie, and cullenbie soup. Haggis, the national dish of Scotland, is a savory pudding made of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, seasoned with spices and oatmeal and boiled in a sheep’s stomach. Cullen skink is a creamy soup made with smoked haddock and potatoes, while Cullenbie is a crispy, crunchy biscuit that is often served with cheese or butter.
Visit a Pub in England
England is famous for its pub culture, and a visit to a traditional pub is a must when exploring the country’s food and drink scene. Pubs in England offer a relaxed atmosphere, good beer, and a menu of hearty pub fare, including dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, try visiting a gastropub, which combines the cozy atmosphere of a traditional pub with high-quality food and drink.
Savor a Cup of Tea
Tea is an integral part of British culture, and a visit to England wouldn’t be complete without sipping a cup of tea. Whether you prefer a traditional English breakfast tea, Earl Grey, or a specialty blend, there are plenty of tea shops and cafes to choose from. For a traditional tea experience, visit one of London’s famous tea rooms, such as The Ritz or Fortnum & Mason. A visit to England truly wouldn’t be complete without a cup of tea!
Taste Whisky and Gin
Scotland and England are also famous for their whisky and gin, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample these iconic spirits. Whisky is made using a blend of malted barley, water, and yeast, and is aged in oak casks for at least three years. Scotland is home to many world-famous whiskies, including Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Talisker. In England, gin is a popular spirit, made using a blend of juniper berries and other botanicals.
Enjoy a Traditional English Breakfast
A traditional English breakfast is a hearty meal that usually includes eggs, bacon, sausage, black pudding, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and toast. This meal is a great way to start the day and is available at many cafes and restaurants throughout England.
Indulge in English Puddings
England is also famous for its puddings, which come in many different forms, including sticky toffee pudding, bread and butter pudding, and plum pudding. These sweet, comforting desserts are the perfect way to end a meal or enjoy as a mid-afternoon treat.
Visit a Farmers’ Market
Scotland and England are home to many farmers’ markets, offering a chance to sample local produce, meet the producers, and discover new and exciting food and drink. These markets are the perfect place to find fresh local Seafood Delicacies and a wide variety of other local produce.
Are You Planning Your Own Culinary Tour of Scotland & England?
From succulent seafood to hearty pub grub, Scotland and England offer a wealth of delicious food and drink options. Whether you’re a fan of whisky, wine, or local delicacies, these two countries are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, take a break from sightseeing and indulge in the rich culinary traditions of Scotland and England.
