Scotland's UNESCO Trail

Scotland’s UNESCO Trail connects 13 remarkable sites, showcasing the nation’s heritage, natural beauty, and creativity. From World Heritage Sites to Creative Cities, this trail celebrates Scotland’s contributions to culture, sustainability, and global UNESCO values. Explore, learn, and be inspired.

Key Information

Duration:
Ongoing (started August 2022)
Funding:
£300,000
Project Funding Source:
Scottish Government
Project Partners:
UK National Commission for UNESCO, VisitScotland, Scottish Government, Scotland's UNESCO sites

Scotland’s UNESCO Trail is a unique journey across 13 remarkable sites and designations, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and cutting-edge innovation. Developed in partnership with the UK National Commission for UNESCO, VisitScotland, and Scotland's UNESCO Sites - the Trail was funded by the Scottish Government. The trail allows visitors to explore everything from iconic World Heritage Sites and Biosphere Reserves to Creative Cities and Global Geoparks. The trail celebrates Scotland’s deep connection to UNESCO’s values of education, science, and culture while highlighting the diverse communities that make these sites vibrant hubs of activity and discovery.

From the dramatic landscapes of the North West Highlands Geopark and the peaceful Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere to the historic streets of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site, the UNESCO Trail weaves together Scotland’s stories in a way that connects the past, present, and future. It highlights the country’s creativity, such as Glasgow’s vibrant music scene as a UNESCO City of Music and Dundee’s reputation as a City of Design. Along the way, visitors encounter sustainable tourism initiatives, local cultural experiences, and opportunities to engage with the people who make these places truly special.

The UNESCO Scotland Trail also exemplifies how the UK is embracing UNESCO’s global network to inspire sustainable development and international collaboration. The trail not only promotes Scotland’s exceptional sites but also champions the values of conservation, education, and inclusive tourism. It encourages visitors to explore responsibly, support local economies, and appreciate Scotland's world-class heritage and culture. Whether discovering ancient castles, breathtaking scenery, or innovative urban creativity, the UNESCO Scotland Trail is a journey that deepens understanding and connection with both Scotland and the wider world.

More information on Scotland's UNESCO Trail

Key Funder
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UKNC Team Members

Professor Anne Anderson
Chair and Non-Executive Director, Education

Professor Anne Anderson, OBE FRSE and Vice Principal Emerita of the University of Glasgow, holds a research background in psychology exploring how people communicate in text, dialogue and via technologies.

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Matthew Rabagliati
Head of Policy, Research and Communications

Matt leads the UKNC’s policy, communications, and research. He manages the organisation's Theory of Change and Delivery Framework with the UK Government. He leads the organisation's fundraising, research and business development with the Secretary-General, and the Climate Change and UNESCO Heritage Project and the Local to Global Programme.

Andrea Blick
Head of Finance and Accreditation

Andrea has responsibility for the financial management of the organisation, as well as managing office administration and HR.

Professor Anne Anderson
Chair and Non-Executive Director, Education

Professor Anne Anderson, OBE FRSE and Vice Principal Emerita of the University of Glasgow, holds a research background in psychology exploring how people communicate in text, dialogue and via technologies.

Learn More

Matthew Rabagliati
Head of Policy, Research and Communications

Matt leads the UKNC’s policy, communications, and research. He manages the organisation's Theory of Change and Delivery Framework with the UK Government. He leads the organisation's fundraising, research and business development with the Secretary-General, and the Climate Change and UNESCO Heritage Project and the Local to Global Programme.

Andrea Blick
Head of Finance and Accreditation

Andrea has responsibility for the financial management of the organisation, as well as managing office administration and HR.

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This website was produced by the UK National Commission for UNESCO as part of its Local to Global programme, made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.