Scotland or Wales: which part of the UK should I explore?

Great Britain is rich with diversity, featuring numerous lakes, endless castles, a myriad of pubs, and so much more.

If you’re planning a trip to the island’s outskirts, should you journey north to Scotland or west to Wales? We’ve asked two writers to debate and present their arguments for why their favored part of the UK deserves your attention.

It must be Scotland

Katie Goh, originally from Ireland, has called Scotland home since 2012, living first in Glasgow and now in Edinburgh, where she works as a freelance journalist and author.

If your national animal happens to be the unicorn, you automatically win any contest. That’s just how it is.

To elaborate... I’ve spent a decade living in Scotland, and this fiercely independent nation—ranging from its vibrant Central Belt cities and stunning lochs to its rugged island coastlines and towering munros (high mountains)—never ceases to amaze me.

Most of Scotland’s inhabitants reside in Edinburgh and Glasgow, two remarkably different cities situated just a 40-minute train ride apart, and they are typically the first destinations for tourists in Scotland. Truly, either city is a compelling reason to visit the country.

The historic city of Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest arts festival every August, with its charming cobblestone streets and an 11th-century castle. Meanwhile, Glasgow is renowned globally for its vibrant nightlife and music scene, featuring everything from local folk artists performing at the Ben Nevis Bar to international pop stars kicking off their world tours at the OVO Hydro. The warm hospitality of the Weegies will make you feel right at home.

Let’s not overlook Scotland’s other remarkable cities. There’s Dundee, which boasts its own branch of the V&A Museum (noted in Succession); Inverness, known for its charming Old Town; and Stirling, steeped in history, including the location where William Wallace triumphed over the English in 1297.

What I love most about living in Scotland? Just a short drive or train ride from its cities can immerse you in the wild landscapes of the country. Scotland is home to a wealth of rugged mountains and breathtaking glens to explore, covering an area three times larger than Wales. I find myself returning to the Cairngorms repeatedly to take in the stunning views and observe its wildlife, including majestic red deer, elusive pine martens, and golden eagles (which vanished from England and Wales in the 19th century). Additionally, Scotland is the only country in the UK that permits wild camping, allowing you to wake up surrounded by natural beauty instead of a cramped campsite.

In addition to having the longest coastline in the UK, Scotland is home to 30,000 freshwater lochs—most notably the world-renowned Loch Ness, which alone holds more water than all of Wales' lakes combined. Scotland’s pristine white sandy beaches and sparkling turquoise waters resemble the Caribbean more than they do Britain—though the water might feel a bit cooler. You might even have a chance encounter with local wildlife: I’ll always remember swimming on the silver sands of Morar and being joined by a playful seal.

Once you’ve worn yourself out exploring Scotland’s stunning outdoors, there’s plenty to enjoy indoors. Sample whisky straight from the cask at one of the numerous distilleries throughout the country, and don’t miss out on the delicious local haggis, neeps, and tatties. Scotland’s vibrant pub culture is well-deserved of its fame, with traditional music flourishing in these inviting venues. Relax with a wee dram (or a few) in hand by the cozy fireplace.

With its enchanting glens, isolated islands, and majestic peaks, it’s clear why the unicorn serves as a fitting symbol for this magical land. The icing on the cake is that Scotland is the best spot in the UK to witness the aurora borealis. You don’t even have to venture far north: earlier this year, they were sighted in all their vibrant hues over the skies of Edinburgh.

As if grinning down from above.

Why wouldn’t it be Wales?

Having been enchanted by Wales since childhood, travel writer Daniel Fahey continues to visit multiple times each year. He recently contributed the North Wales and Mid-Wales chapters for Dinogo Planet’s forthcoming Great Britain guide.

I truly adore Scotland—it’s my go-to spot for a weekend of deep-fried indulgence—but Wales holds a special place in my heart. It’s my vibrant, cherry-red escape plan for when I need a break.

Whenever life becomes overwhelming, I escape to the UK’s only coastal national park in Pembrokeshire for a reset. I’ll set up my tent on a clifftop and immerse myself in the serene sounds of birdsong and the distant crash of waves—just to start anew.

Wales has long been a remedy for both mental and physical distress. St Winefride’s Well is considered the oldest continuously visited pilgrimage site in Britain. It’s no surprise that the Welsh established the NHS: every visit here feels like a rejuvenating tonic, a true antidote to the chaos of modern life.

Though the country is roughly the size of New Jersey after a brisk dip in the Arctic Ocean, it is rich with sacred landmarks. Anglesey alone features over 120 megaliths and burial sites, while the prehistoric copper mines beneath the Great Orme at Llandudno hold the title of the largest in the world.

You’re never far from a castle here; Wales boasts 427 fortifications and ruins—more per mile than anywhere else globally. These range from Edward I’s ambitious yet unfinished Beaumaris Castle to Europe’s second-largest fortress, Caerphilly, which is only surpassed by Windsor in England.

Nearly 20% of the country is designated as national parks, three times more than Scotland, making it the highest percentage in Europe. Additionally, Wales features an unbroken walking path that stretches along its entire coastline—a unique offering among nations.

Few places can rival Wales in terms of breathtaking beauty. While Scotland boasts 75 peaks taller than Wales' highest, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), how many of those can you reach by train? Embrace the ease of vacation and take the scenic ride up.

Alternatively, venture south to explore Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons). This stunning expanse of nature is woven together by rivers, trails, and lush woodlands.

If walking here doesn’t clear my mind, I’ll journey north, where you’ll find more UNESCO World Heritage sites per square mile than anywhere else on Earth. From Thomas Telford’s impressive Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to the expansive slate landscape of Eryri (Snowdonia), the theme of grandeur prevails.

Not everything in Wales is monumental. It proudly hosts Britain’s smallest house and the world’s tiniest cinema. It’s also home to Britain’s smallest city, St Davids, whose impressive purple-stone cathedral nestles deep within a valley like one of those jade eggs you might find on Goop.

Then there are delightful spots like Aberaeron, where restaurants such as Harbourmaster and Stubborn Duckling would be highlights in any capital, let alone a lovely Georgian seaside town.

But Cardiff has nothing to fear. With its stunning Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades, one of the world’s finest cocktail bars, Lab 22, and Caroline St—a late-night haven of restaurants fondly called Chippy Lane—there’s plenty to enjoy. And yes, there’s even a castle here—surprise!

Can Scotland match that? Not even close, especially when considering Wales's stunning spots for a brisk, chill-inducing dip. Think of the gorgeous Barafundle Bay or the enchanting rock pools at Caer Bwdy Bay, not to mention the rejuvenating waters of the sacred St Winefride’s Well.

Be sure to bring your swimsuit along!