27 Special Souvenirs from Scotland

Heading to Scotland, and looking for special souvenirs to bring home?

We travelled to Scotland for the first time in 2025, and I was in awe of all of the unique items; foods, handicrafts and ingredients that we are not used to at home in Canada.

Even though there are plenty of British and even Scottish stores in Canada, I came across a lot of really cool things in Scotland that I’d never seen or heard of before.

So, let’s dive into some of the most unique, authentic souvenirs you can find in Scotland.

Souvenirs from Scotland

1. Plaid clothing, or themed souvenirs

Scotland is a place to find all things plaid – scarves, pillowcases, sweaters, table cloths, blankets, teacups – pretty much if it exists, you can find it decorated in plaid.

Plaid has deep roots in Scottish culture; in fact – the word ‘plaid’ is the Gaelic word for blanket.

It’s useful to know that sometimes you’ll hear the word ‘tartan’ when shopping for plaid. Tartan is a plaid, but is usually associated with a specific family clan; whereas plaid is just any general criss-cross pattern.

So, looking for things decorated in plaid is different from tartan. Anything can be decorated in plaid, such as the Scotland souvenirs pictured above.

People looking for tartan associated with a clan need to first find out:

• which clan
• which design is associated with the clan

You can find authentic, made in Scotland tartan at the Scottish Textiles Showcase – they’re located in Edinburgh, but they ship to some countries.

2. Celtic jewelry

Celtic jewelry is made with Celtic symbols, a culture that lived in the current-day Scotland area until around 2,000 BC.

Celtic jewelry is typically made with bronze, silver or amber. But you can also get cheaper versions that are made with more synthetic materials.

Celtic jewelry is a popular souvenir from Ireland too, where Celtic culture also has roots.

3. Harry Potter souvenirs

There are lots of Harry Potter-themed souvenirs in Scotland; in Edinburgh in particular.

J.K. Rowling wrote the Harry Potter book while staying in Edinburgh, so as you can imagine, so there are whole tours and stores dedicated to it.

I recommend dropping by Museum Context: Retailer of Harry Potter Merchandise near the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.

It carries official Harry Potter licensed merchandise, and it’s a very unique store that I see many people filming the whole time they shop because its so unique.

There’s almost always a lineup to get into the Museum Context store – so just set aside time for that.

4. Shetland Knitwear

Shetland knitwear is made with 100% pure Shetland island wool, and handknitted by people from the Shetland Islands.

The yarn is very tough and very warm, but it’s not soft. If you live in a warmer climate, it may not make as much sense to bring it home as it won’t often be cold enough to wear it.

There are a few Shetland islands – the one most common for the knitwear is Fair Isle.

5. Scottish tea

English tea is famous worldwide, but both Ireland and Scotland have their unique blends that aren’t commonly found elsewhere.

Scotland actually has had a huge impact on tea that often goes unrecognized! Lipton tea started in Scotland (by Thomas Lipton) in the late 1800s.

It’s even said that English Breakfast tea was invented in Edinburgh, and that Queen Victoria loved it so much that she made the tea popular in England (and thereby stealing the name.)

For a souvenir tea in Scotland, look for:

• Scottish Breakfast. It’s a black tea that is usually served with milk.
• Brodies Tea. It started in Leith, Scotland, and is made with teas imported from India. It’s also fair trade.

6. Heather honey

Scotland produces a special honey that is only made there, called heather honey – made from the nectar of the heather flower.

Scottish heather honey differs slightly from heather honey in Ireland. Both of them have health benefits, and some believe them to be even better than manuka honey from Australia.

You can read about the health benefits of heather honey here.

One of the best companies to Scottish buy honey from is the Scottish Bee Company.

Check out Scottish Bee Company products on Amazon (ships internationally) here

7. Irn Bru or merchandise

Irn Bru is a Scottish soft drink (pop or soft drinks are called ‘fizzy drinks in Scotland.)

It has a unique taste – I would say its something between an orange coke and a root beer. Not the best description, but the closest way i can think of to describe it.

Irn Bru is one of the most popular drinks in Scotland and has become a symbol of Scottish pride. Just check out all the really unique and fun gifts incorporating Irn Bru that small businesses are selling on Etsy.

Bringing back Irn Bru to other countries might be difficult, as it’s carbonated. (Plus, you can find British or Scottish stores in many countries. I’ve found Irn Bru in Canada.)

However, Irn Bru sells merchandise as well. You can see their merch on their website.

8. Nessie gifts and items

You can get lots of Nessie gifts and souvenirs, the Loch Ness Monster.

If you head up to the Highlands, or the Inverness area, you can do a Loch Ness lake cruise and try to spot the legendary Nessie.

However, we saw Nessie souvenirs everywhere – in Edinburgh, and around the Highlands.

• Nessie children’s book
• Nessie stuffie
• Nessie bathtub toy
• Nessie T-shirts (I really liked the Nessie play on Jaws that I saw)

Pro Tip: Nessie souvenirs are great for kids, but are not just for kids. I got my husband a Jurassic Park logo T-shirt, that said Loch Ness instead of Jurassic Park.

9. Handsome men in kilts

You will have a hard time not noticing that there are many souvenirs of these handsome men wearing kilts.

You can get calendars, magnets, and even chocolate bars of these guys. Might be a fun gift for a friend or something to put on your fridge.

10. Outlander-based souvenirs

Speaking of handsome men, Outlander is the second most popular TV/book series that people come to Scotland for.

You can find many Outlander souvenirs if you’re looking for them, especially if you’re visiting one of the filming locations.

I saw many Outlander themed souvenirs, such as:

• a cookbook based on food mentioned in the books (pictued above)
• signs that said “My Husband is Jamie Fraser”
• Claire’s ring

11. Haggis, or haggis-flavoured snacks

Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish that consists of sheep guts. It’s been consumed in Scotland since around the 1400s and is one of the main dishes that Scotland is known for.

I haven’t tried haggis personally (vegetarian), but I’m told it has a crumbly, oaty and creamy texture.

Bringing back haggis to another country may not be allowed (due to restrictions on bringing meat back), but you can also get:

• haggis-flavoured crisps (chips)
• haggis seasoning
• haggis-flavoured chocolate, or candies – my husband tried it at the Chocolate Factory in Edinburgh! (There are also places where you can find haggis flavoured ice cream although that would be impossible to bring back.)

12. A heather-scented candle

Heather is a pinkish-purple flower that grows in moors and bogs. It is a symbol of Scotland, being very common in the Highlands.

Isle of Skye Candle Company sells homemade candles fragranced with heather and many other local plants and ingredients.

You can find them on Isle of Skye if its on your itinerary, or they have a store right in Edinburgh on Victoria street.

Sometimes its heather mixed with something else, such as this one on Amazon with heather and wild berries.

13. Scottish shortbread cookies

Shortbread cookies can be found in many places, but the original recipe originated in Scotland.

Mary Queen of Scots was said to be a huge fan and a big part of refining the Scottish recipe and making it famous!

You will see these cookies everywhere -you can buy them in a decorative tin, a bag, or in a small box.

Pro Tip: Irish shortbread is different from Scottish shortbread.

14. Scottish tablet

(No, I don’t mean an iPad or screen for kids to play on.) Tablet is another traditional Scottish sweet treat!

Tablet is a simple recipe made of milk, more milk, and lots of sugar. We saw it everywhere, usually next to the shortbread cookies.

15. A Scottish animal stuffie

I mentioned that you can find Nessie souvenirs. But another thing you’ll commonly see is stuffed animals of animals that are common to Scotland:

• reindeer
• highland cows
• sheep

These make perfect souvenirs if you’re in Scotland with kids, or want to bring something back for a child at home.

16. A bottle of whisky

Whisky (not the spelling difference) is believed to have originated in Scotland.

The best part is that you don’t have to buy a big bottle; many souvenir stores sell small bottles. These for example are the size of my hand:

There are over 100 distilleries in Scotland, and hundreds of different blends – so you have lots of options. See some of the best Scottish whiskeys here.

If you’re flying, it may be best to keep the bottle in your luggage and declare it, or purchase a bottle duty-free at the airport.

17. Harris Tweed

Harris Tweed is handwoven by Scottish islanders. You will see it everywhere.

You can get shirts, scarves, hats, mits, and so many other items made out of harris tweed.

You shouldn’t have any problem finding harris tweed in person anywhere in Scotland; it’s very commonly sold in almost every souvenir store.

The Harris Tweed Shop ships internationally if you’d rather buy it online.

18. A quaich

A quaich (pronounced kweh) is a two-handed cup, and is a symbol of love and friendship in Scotland.

Historically, the quaich was been used as a welcoming drink for guests and clan gatherings, and it’s a traditional wedding gift in Scotland.

Quaichs are traditionally made with wood, but today you normally them made from silver, copper or metal. (I didn’t see any made of wood.)

Where to buy a Quiach in Scotland

• You’ll see them in many of the more expensive, quality souvenir stores
• On Etsy, you can find quaichs that can be engraved with whatever you want.

19. Scottish skincare products

There are skincare brands that are unique to Scotland and use ingredients found in the Highlands.

You can find handmade soaps, hand creams, shampoo and other beauty items that are 100% made in Scotland.

Here are some Scottish skincare brands to look for:

• Highland Soap Company (pictured above) you’ll see their shops in Pitlochry, Fort William, Aviemore, and other touristy locations in the Highlands.
• Isle of Skye Candle Company, which I mentioned before as making candles – but they also make skincare products.
• Seilich Meadow Grown Skincare -has won Scottish Nature Awards. Their products are scented only with nature and ingredients from Scotland’s meadows. They’re wildlife-friendly, and they also ship internationally. Check them out here.
• The Edinburgh Natural Skincare Co – 2 different locations in Edinburgh

20. A book by a Scottish author

Several of the shops I frequented in Scotland had books about Scottish ghost stories, true crime, and other spooky tales of Scotland.

In addition, used bookstores are pretty common in Scotland. The cutest bookstore in the UK is believed to be the Leaky Bookshop in Inverness.

In souvenir stores, I saw many books about Scottish tales and folklore, history, and biographies about important people in Scottish history.

There are also many Scottish authors that write fiction set in Scotland. Read my list of the best books that take place in Scotland.

21. Surname history gifts

This was one of the most unique Scottish souvenir ideas I found. You could search in a directory for a list of European surnames, choose the one you want, and get a scroll all about the history of that name; it’s origins, and earliest people.

I saw this in Inverness at the Victoria Market, but didn’t see it anywhere else. It would be a special souvenir if you found a place that does it.

I found something very similar online too at Hall of Names (UK) too and they do online orders and shipping.

22. Cashmere

Besides Harris Tweed, cashmere is the second most popular textile in Scotland. Scotland has been producing tweed for hundreds of years and some mills go back generations.

Cashmere items are very commonly found as souvenirs, in the same kinds of places youd find tweed (which is most souvenir stores.)

23. A jar of Dundee marmalade

Marmalade was invented in the Scottish city of Dundee in the 1700s, when a ship full of Spanish oranges arrived.

Traditional Scottish marmalade is called Dundee marmalade and today you’ll find it made under the big brand names like Macays.

Regular marmalade can be made with any type of oranges, but Dundee Marmalade specifically uses Spanish oranges from the city of Seville.

These Seville oranges are more tangy than other marmalades, so Dundee marmalade is a bit sweeter and sour than other marmalades.

24. Scottish Christmas ornaments

Christmas is the most important holiday in Scotland, and Scottish Christmas ornaments come in different styles and themes.

Some are plaid themed which reminds me of a cozy Christmas.

I saw some ornaments that were Royal Castle themed, and some have reindeer, and even highland cows.

We saw Scottish Christmas ornaments everywhere we went, and there are also several Christmas stores.

25. Unique or handmade jewellery

There were lots of unique kinds of jewellery in Scotland.

I bought a pair of earrings that were made of recycled whisky bottles. I also bought some beautiful handmade earrings at the Grassmarket Market in Edinburgh!

26. Monarchy-based souvenirs

Another huge thing Scotland is known for is some of the members of their monarchy – Mary Queen of Scots being the most famous one!

Many of the castle gift shops, and regular souvenir shops carried ‘royal’ based souvenirs that had crowns on them.

27. Bagpipes

Bagpipes would not be an easy thing to bring home because of their size, but some people want to bring back this unique instrument associated with Scotland.

If might be worth it to know, though, that even know bagpipes are often seen as a symbol of Scottish heritage, the instrument did not originate in Scotland. Bagpipes originated somewhere in the Middle East, as early as 1000 BC.

However, you will see bagpipes almost certainly in Scotland. There are many buskers playing them on the streets of cities and tourist towns.

28. Becoming a Lord or Lady in Scotland

When I first saw this, I thought it was a joke or maybe something for kids, but it is basically a lighthearted special gift from Scotland.

You can buy a souvenir plot of land that (informally) designates you as a Lord or a Lady.

Buying these land deeds is not legal land ownership, and you’re not officially a Lord or a Lady for owning these documents. Titles bought online have no legal status.

Personally I think it’s a bit silly, and not worth it – but it could be done as a joke, or something fun to not be taken too seriously.

Highland Textiles sells plots of land that cost. It’s not super cheap either, you can expect to spend hundreds of dollars, but you get a whole gift set accompanied by the ‘title.’ Before buying, I’d read a bit more about souvenir titles in Scotland here.

Where to Find the Best, Most Authentic Scottish Souvenirs

• Supermarkets. Supermarkets (in Scotland and any country) tend to carry unique foods and products that fit with what people eat every day. brands that aren’t found elsewhere. The big supermarkets in Scotland are Tesco and Aldi.
• Used Bookstores -Scotland has many used bookstores. They’re a good place to find books that may not frequent the bookshelves in big box stores back home
• Harry Potter Stores – there are a couple of themed stores in Glasgow and Edinburgh
• Aurora Jewelry – this jewelry is based in the island of Orkney; they make Celtic jewelry and even unique Outlander-based items
• Scottish Textiles Showcase to find plaid and authentic tartan products
• Castle gift shops – most of the bigger castles in Scotland have gift shops attached to them where you can find unique, and good quality Scotland souvenirs

Scottish Souvenir FAQ

What products is Scotland famous for?

Scotland is famous for authentic tartan and plaid, premium baked goods, teas, and animals like highland cows, sheep, reindeer and Nessie the Loch Ness Monster.

What are 3 foods that are from Scotland?

Scottish is primarily known for a few different foods: haggis, baked goods, tea and the carbonated drink Irn Bru.

What to bring back from Edinburgh?

From Edinburgh specifically, consider bringing back chocolate from the Chocolatarium, Harry Potter souvenirs, and Edinburgh Castle souvenirs.

Final Thoughts on Souvenirs from Scotland

I hope that this article has filled you with ideas and inspiration for Scottish gifts and souvenirs from Scotland. Maybe you’re visiting Scotland, or maybe you live in Scotland and are looking for unique Scottish gifts to bring to people abroad – either way, I hope that you found what you were looking for.