Once you get out of the Central Belt, roads in Scotland are a little bit different – even on the Trunk Network. We have mountains, lochs, and forests to contend with, so you’ll find there are a lot of bends in the more rural areas.

Passing Places

Local roads may also be single track – in which case you’ll need to make use of passing places. If you see a vehicle coming towards you on a single track road, or a driver wants to overtake, pull into a passing place on your left, or wait opposite a passing place on your right. It is important that you do not park in passing places, as you will cause an obstruction for other road users.

Photo of a passing place sign in Scotland
A highland cow, and its baby, in front of a sunset.

On the moo-ve!

In more rural spots in Scotland, you'll be more likely to come across animals, so take extra caution. For instance, if you are near a farm, be prepared for livestock on the roads, as well as a higher chance of slow-moving vehicles.

You're more likely to come across deer on the roads during spring and summer. It is important that you don't abruptly swerve to avoid hitting a deer. A potential collision would be even worse. There's more advice for Deer Safety on the NatureScot site.