Planning our first trip to Scotland - Need your help!

[Bruno]

Watch your tartans in Glasgow. Last time I was having a dram in Glasgow I went out to have a cigar (damned smoking ban).

I noticed a guy in Celtic tartan and his mates attempt to enter a rangers pub. The fight piled into the street. Dozens of fans appeared as did all the pub doormen and police. Chairs were used as weapons bottles thrown etc. Just be aware that Irish national looks very much like Celtic colours, while rangers are in a mainly blue tartan. Word to the wise wearing a different pattern could save you a trip to hospital in the wrong area.

[rab _]

I agree that coming outside of July/August time is a good idea to avoid the "worst" of the crowds. That said the atmosphere in Edinburgh during the festival (August) is very special.
I recommend a trip to Skye, hiring a car and driving via loch lomond and up the west coast (assuming you will arrive in Edinburgh/Glasgow). The scenery is fantastic and if you give yourself a few days you will have plenty time to stop off, Scotland is pretty small so it's no problem getting around if you have a car.
The 3 chimneys is a very well thought of restaurant on Skye, unfortunately I had to to cancel my booking so haven't got to try it yet, but friend's have recommended it highly.
I should admit I am an Edinburgh boy, but you should at least give yourself 3 full days there, there is an incredible amount to see.
The witchery is a good bet for a special dinner or restaurant martin wishart, which is probably the best in Scotland. These aren't cheap, mind you!
Another thing you could consider is a trip during the 6 nations rugby tournament at the beginning of spring time, Edinburgh really comes alive and there will be plenty kilts on show

[wvpiper]

Travel by rail and bus,get a Britrail pass commensurate with the number of days you'll be traveling.

[Bruno]

Travel by rail and bus,get a Britrail pass commensurate with the number of days you'll be traveling.

Rail and bus is fine in some parts but if you get into the more remote areas they are useless. Some areas have no buses on the Sabbath while in other areas you need to use a post office van for transport as they have no bus services.. If you have a reliable car or can hire one you will have more freedom to get around and stop and explore. I have travelled from London by train and it can take 12 hours on the overnight.

If you just want to visit the cities use the bus and train but anything more adventurous get a car. I have travelled by bus coach and car and to be honest nothing beats stopping on a remote road with the old field glasses at dawn to watch a couple of deer wandering out of the mist...a thing no train or coach can do.