The Scotland keyring experience
- Carla Rasem
- Dec 19, 2025
- 3 min read
What do the Loch Ness Monster and the Highland cow have in common? It’s Scotland, of course. They are both famous symbols of Scotland. My souvenir key chain made me wonder about other symbols and their meaning. Here’s what I found.
The Thistle
Firstly, let’s talk about nature in Scotland… the thistle, which is a classic symbol representing Scotland’s nature and history. According to legend, one day, a barefoot foreign soldier stepped on the sharp spines of the thistle and his pain was so horrible that he screamed. The scream was so loud that it woke up all the sleeping Scottish people and that’s how they were able to defend their land and nation.
It’s more than just a flower, it’s a symbol of victory.
The Highland Cow
The highland cow is one of the most iconic symbols of Scotland but what makes it special? Because of its rare features like its long wavy hair and the impressive horns, it looks unique. It represents the people because their features means they can live in this cooler temperature and you can call them ‘survivors’ of the environment.
Who hasn’t seen a highland cow on mugs, key chains, cushions or t-shirts?
The Loch Ness Monster
Do you think the Loch Ness Monster is real?
On the one hand, it could be a kind of water snake but much bigger. On the other hand, people think that the thing that you see is just waves and it’s a myth – just a legend which is passed down through generations.
I think people like to listen to stories, especially kids. It gives you the feeling that something is more enchanting particularly when it’s mysterious and you ask yourself if it’s true or not. Because the lake is so long and deep, it makes the story easier to believe. It’s the unknown! Did you know…? The lake is 23 miles long (36km); the maximum depth is about 240m. It contains more water than all the lakes, rivers and reservoirs in England and Wales put together, which makes this story believable for people.
The Flag of Scotland
The Scottish flag, also known as the Saltire, is simple but full of meaning.
The background of the flag is blue, which symbolises loyalty, truth and peace and also represents the sea and sky surrounding the country.
The white cross stands for purity and is connected to Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland.
Did you know that the Scottish flag is also part of the union flag. It connects the white cross of Scotland, the red cross of England and diagonal red cross of Northern Ireland which shows the unity of these countries.
Special mentions
When I think of Scotland, I immediately think of the bagpipes.
The traditional instrument is one of the most famous symbols of the country and has a long history. It was used in battle and became part of national identity. These days, they are played at important festivals, weddings and even funerals.
The Scottish terrier, often called the ‘Scottie dog’ is a well-known breed of dog from Scotland. According to legend, the earl of Dumbarton gave the dog a special nickname because Scottish terriers were very brave and never gave up. There is a famous statue of one in Edinburgh and people say that rubbing its nose brings good luck.
My name is Carla, and it has been my pleasure to tell you about symbols of Scotland which I discovered during my summer holiday road trip to Scotland this year.
This is my second travel blog. Maybe you should check out my trip to New York next and let me know what you think.
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