The variation in water quality experienced in Scotland reflects differences in the physical environment and land management. These differences occur both as a result of natural variability, societal development and pollutant inputs. A large proportion of the land area of Scotland is upland in nature which is extensively managed. Whereas in the lowlands, intensive land management predominates. In addition, water quality in the lowland areas in the vicinity of Glasgow and Edinburgh is influenced through the legacy of Victorian and latter day industrial and urban development. A general introduction to the spatial distribution of these facets of Scotland and their relation to water quality is presented.