Scotland
There’s a reason we’re fiercely proud of our little country. During your time here you’ll discover landscapes that will take your breath away, more mountains than you can climb (but you can try!) as well as vibrant, cosmopolitan cities bursting with opportunities for students and graduates.
Recognised by Rough Guides (2019) as the most beautiful country in the world, Scotland is a small country packed with a rich heritage, breath-taking landscapes, dynamic cities and an artistic culture which has produced some of the world’s most renowned musicians, filmmakers, dancers, artists, singers and performers. Stunning scenery to stir the soul. Rich history and vibrant cities. Internationally acclaimed arts and culture. Scotland offers students a canvas of natural beauty and cultural creativity.
No matter where you look, from the highest peaks to the biggest festivals, Scotland will take you on an unforgettable journey. That’s why more than 80,000 international students from over 180 countries decide to call Scotland home each year.
Stunning scenery to stir the soul
So much on your doorstep
Drive for approximately one hour in any direction and you can find yourself on the beach of North Berwick eating fresh fish, discovering historic gems in the National Galleries in Edinburgh or relaxing along the shorelines of Loch Lomond.
More than just castles
With over eighteen million visitors a year, Scotland is a popular tourist destination for many internationally. Popular attractions include the Isle of Skye, the historic Wallace Monument, the Kelpies and so much more. This small country is teeming with wonderful wildlife, and bustling modern cities and is home to over one hundred whisky distilleries, dotted across the country. Whether you’re studying with us for a year or three, be sure to spend some of your time discovering everything Scotland has to offer!
Live the life you want
Go skiing, hiking, mountain biking. Become a culture vulture and visit the numerous museums, art galleries, theatres and cinemas. Take yourself back to the past through fascinating ruins and ancient buildings on tiny islands and in the middle of the biggest cities. Escape modernity and experience the ruggedness of nature in our National Parks.
Edinburgh
A castle perched high over cobbled streets in a city cloaked in history, mystery and romance…
The perfect day trip
Edinburgh never fails to take the breath away. Scotland’s capital city is easily accessible from Glasgow (just 42 minutes by train!) and offers a different side to Scottish culture. Every year, millions of people flock to this UNESCO World Heritage Site to soak up stunning architecture and lose themselves in its fascinating past. But here nostalgia nestles alongside the contemporary in Scotland’s captivating capital.
Packed with history and stunning gothic architecture, Edinburgh has an old-world, traditional charm with iconic sites around every corner. From the picturesque Princes Street Gardens to Greyfriars Bobby to the legendary Edinburgh Castle and mythical Authur’s seat, this city will charm you from the moment you arrive to the second you leave.
Festival City
Edinburgh is rich in cultural experiences, hosting seven festivals between July and August each year: the Edinburg Jazz & Blues Festival, Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival, Edinburgh International Film Festival, and the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Together these festivals transform Edinburgh into one of the most vibrant and art-rich cities in the world, each RCS sees many staff, students and alumni head to Edinburgh to watch, perform and create as part of these incredible festivals.