Licensing laws are different in Scotland. It varies from pub to pub, nightclub to nightclub etc in Scotland. I think pubs and clubs apply to the local authorities. Some places are open nearly 24 hours.
I think licensing laws are more lax than in Sweden (where I live now). There are very few pubs here - one in the town where I live. Can't even buy alcohol easily. Only "system bolaget" sells alcohol. It is run by the government. There are only two in this town and some towns only have one. Drinking laws are very tough here.
I live in England and in my Town 70% of the pubs open untill 1-2am. I think the standard laws are 11pm and you can then apply for a late license to the local council, mine seem to be a bit progresive and allow pubs a late license.