A typical Scottish breakfast encompasses many important parts of our culture and celebrates the amazing ingredients that can be found on our doorstep. From the Scottish porridge, which dates back 5,500 years to Stone Age settlers in the Outer Hebrides, to a filled Glasgow roll that modern-day Scots grab on their way to work each morning. Perhaps the most iconic staple of Scottish cuisine is the full Scottish breakfast.
The traditional Scottish breakfast is a testament to how years of history and tradition can come together to remind us that sharing a meal ultimately strengthens the bonds we’re building, not only with loved ones, but with our predecessors, too.
The origins of the full Scottish breakfast can be traced back to the mid-19th century. For the Victorians breakfast was the most significant meal of the day, where it was used to showcase affluence and hospitality. The climate might also have something to do with the chosen ingredients; providing all the nutrients needed in colder weather conditions, making it the perfect fuel to start your day .
Regardless of where you find yourself eating in Scotland - a local café, a Michelin-star restaurant or one of our award-winning spas - you’ll undoubtedly be able to find a full Scottish breakfast as an option on the breakfast menu. So, what is a full Scottish breakfast? Usually made up of bacon, link sausages, Lorne sausage (also known as square sausage or slice), black pudding, haggis, baked beans, fried mushrooms and tomatoes, toast, tattie scones and fried eggs, the full Scottish breakfast is a sight to behold.
For the very best taste experience, be sure to source these items locally, from Scottish farms and butchers. Produce in Scotland is amongst the finest in the world, and there’s no better way to showcase the amazing ingredients on our doorstep than the traditional Scottish breakfast.
Dig in to traditional Scottish breakfasts and other dishes
Even though these are the traditional Scottish breakfast items, the culinary landscape has evolved, offering a wide variety of new and exciting choices for vegetarians and vegans who still want to experience an authentic Scottish breakfast.
Discover more about the vegetarian or vegan Scottish breakfast