mountains and winding road

High Roads and Low Roads in Scotland

The latest exhibition in the Library’s display cases is a selection of historical Scottish tourist guides. Scotland is a popular destination for tourists today, but until the second half of the 18th century, few people travelled around Scotland. The roads were poor, there was little accommodation and the harsh weather conditions made travel uncomfortable. In addition, the Jacobite Rebellions of the early 18th century created the impression that Scotland was a dangerous place.

Things started to change in the later 18th century and by the 19th century, Scotland had become an unmissable destination thanks to improved transport and romantic literary promotion by the likes of Sir Walter Scott.

The display is available in the Library until the end of March.

Sir Walter Scott, The lady of the lake (Edinburgh, 1869). Mauchline Ware binding