The Best Time To Visit Scotland

See Also

• Where to Stay in Edinburgh

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

I advise visiting Scotland in the months of late June to early September when the temperatures are warmest and chance of rain is relatively low. This is also the busiest time of year, bringing the most tourists and highest prices on accommodation and airfare. Prices fall slightly, and the weather remains good in May, early June, and late September.

• Best Time for Sightseeing: The time from mid-April to May or mid-September to mid-October generally provides decent weather conditions, extended daylight hours, and fewer crowds of tourists which allows for optimal viewing of attractions without interruptions.
• Best Timeframe to Visit for Beneficial Weather: July and August offer the highest likelihood for favorable weather and the warmest temperature of the year with afternoon highs averaging 19°C. Expect a mixture of sunshine, clouds, and rain across the country.
• Best Time to Visit for Golf: Golf is most pleasant during the warmer months, from around May through September. The courses won’t be as crowded at either end of that time frame, so if you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, aim for May or later in September.
• Best Period for Hiking: With its many spectacular mountain areas, including the Highlands, Scotland is a favored destination for hiking. Hikers that favor milder temperatures, a good chance for some sunny days, and fewer people out on the trails, may wish to go in late spring, but it’s always important to arrive prepared for at minimum some rain. While there will be more visitors in the summer, it brings higher temperatures without being too hot, creating it a wonderful time to hike. While autumn will be colder, that crisp weather often means viewing brilliant fall foliage.
• Most Appropriate Era for Fortress Visits: Any phase of the year is a suitable time for exploring the citadels, but if you seek an encounter devoid of a crowd, plan your excursion between November and April. Regardless of the season, by arriving at the start of daytime hours or near the closure period not long before concluding hours, the strongholds commonly have less attendees and considerably briefer queues at the entrance.

Scotland Travel Seasons

• Peak Season (July and August): These mid-year months represent Scotland`s busiest tourism period and warmest stretch, with afternoon heat typically rising to around 19°C. Expect a combination of sunny and wet weather in addition to plentiful daylight thanks to the nation`s northern location. With the influx of visitors, ferries and buses may be at full capacity while lodging rates and airfare will be at their highest.
• Transition Times (May and June, September and October): The transition times are a great time to visit Scotland. Late spring and early summer bring agreeable temperatures and wildflowers in full bloom, while autumn transforms landscapes with colorful foliage. Expect afternoon highs of 11°C to 14°C, along with shorter queues at attractions and the potential for some discounted airfares and accommodation rates.
• Low Season (November through April): Though November marks the official start of autumn in Scotland, it ushers in the region`s winter season with short, gloomy days often seeing the first snowfall. The likelihood of snow is highest from December through January, but cold temperatures persist through March and into April most years. This span constitutes the optimal period for an affordable, uncrowded visit with lower room rates and airfare available. However, some attractions as well as hotels and restaurants may close temporarily during this season, so confirm operating details while planning any itinerary.

Scotland Weather by Month

Despite its modest geographic scale, Scotland`s climate naturally varies significantly between regions, especially comparing coastal lowlands to interior highlands and mountainous zones. As a general indication based on observations in the capital of Glasgow, visitors can anticipate cooler temperatures and less predictable weather patterns within elevations like the highlands.
• Weather conditions in Scotland for the month of January: If planning a visit to Scotland in January, it`s wise to pack numerous warm layers as this is the chilliest period across all regions. The average high is 5°C but wind gusts can make it feel substantially chillier. While snow is possible, especially in mountainous zones, it`s often a damp cold with rainfall and potentially blustery winds. Near coastal lowlands, snow is less likely. Be certain to bring clothing that allows layering like sweaters and thermal undergarments as well as an outer shell like a waterproof coat plus wool socks, waterproof boots, hats, and gloves. Scotland`s northern position means brief daylight hours, so schedule accordingly with only around 8 hours of average daylight this month.
  (Average Maximum Temperature: 5°C. Average Rainfall: 130mm.)
• Weather in Scotland in February: On average, the high temperature in February is just one degree warmer than the previous month at 6°C with the low just above freezing at 1°C, so wintry weather can make travel challenging. The reward is some lovely winter wonderland landscapes, and indoor comforts like log fires in pubs, hotels, and bed and breakfasts are always available. The days are growing longer for sightseeing – by late February there are nearly 11 hours of daylight with sunrise just after 7 a.m. and sunset a little before 6 p.m.
  (Average Max Temperature: 6°C. Average Precipitation: 90mm.)
• Weather conditions in Scotland during March: While temperatures are increasing, the likelihood of rain also grows, with an average of 120mm of precipitation over 23 days during this month. The mean high temperature rises to 9°C but you can expect many gray, chilly, damp days in lowland regions and snowfall in the Highlands where it`s colder. While spring may be approaching, it probably won`t be noticeable until later in the month. No matter when you visit you`ll need to plan on bundling up, like scarves, gloves, and wool socks. The good news is there is now even more daylight – with daylight saving time by late March, you can enjoy over 13 hours of it for exploring the sights.
  (Average Maximum Temperature: 9°C. Average Rainfall: 120mm.)
• Weather conditions in Scotland throughout April: The climate becomes a touch warmer during April, with daytime highs rising to approximately 12°C, however mountainous locales may continue experiencing snowfall atop peaks. More positively, this time period sees one of the drier stages of the year, with typical rainfall reducing notably to approximately 50mm on average. Mornings as well as evenings retain chilliness, so retaining clothes crafted for cooler climatic states like a warm (potentially water-resistant) coat proves advantageous, but afternoons usually offer tranquility sufficient for just a sweater or lightweight jacket. Packing clothes permitting layering embraces preparation effectively.
  (Average highest temperature: 12°C. Average rainfall: 50mm.)
• Scotland`s Weather in May: May brings spring wildflowers blooming across Scotland, and with the exception of the highest peaks, the snow will have melted by now. This is one of the best times of year to visit as the crowds of summer have yet to arrive and temperatures are a bit more comfortable with afternoon highs averaging 14°C. Average precipitation increases slightly to 60mm, so travelers should pack a waterproof jacket along with sweaters and sweatshirts for chilly mornings and evenings.
  (Average Maximum Temperature: 14°C. Average Rainfall: 60mm.)
• Scotland Weather in June: During the summer month of June, temperatures tend to be warmer, allowing for short-sleeved shirts on some days, though rain along with cooler mornings and evenings must still be prepared for. It`s best to have clothing that can be layered, plus a rain jacket as June sees on average 70mm of precipitation over 20 days. It also brings the longest day of the year, with sunrise at 4:29 a.m. and sunset at 10:06 p.m. on the 21st.
  (Average Maximum Temperature: 17°C. Average Rainfall: 70mm.)
• Scotland Weather in July: The warmest month of the year in Scotland is July, although temperatures rarely become excessively hot with average highs around 19°C in the afternoon. Rain remains possible during this period and around 70mm of precipitation is typical, so a lightweight rain jacket as well as sweaters for evening outings are advisable. This peak summer time provides one of the best opportunities for hiking in the Highlands and other mountain activities. As would be expected in Scotland, shorts and swimsuits likely won`t be needed due to average highs around 15°C, a temperature locals may brave for swimming at beaches despite its chill.
  (Average Maximum Temperature: 19°C. Average Rainfall: 70mm.)
• August in Scotland: Temperatures continue much like July, with the average high decreasing slightly to 18°C although sunny days may be a bit more prevalent, with about 60mm of rain on average now. This remains a great time to enjoy beaches and possibly a brief, chilly ocean dip. Pack as for the prior month, blending short and long-sleeved tops along with a sweater or light jacket.
  (Maximum Typical Temperature: 19°C. Median Precipitation: 60mm.)
• Scotland Weather in September: With autumn approaching, early September is generally comfortably warm, but things will begin to shift soon. The average high temperature drops three degrees to 16°C and there are likely to be more rainy days with 80mm of precipitation on standard over 20 days this month. It can be a great time to visit Scotland, with some areas transformed with vibrant, colorful foliage in late September while the crowds of summer have departed. You’ll still need a mix of clothing, although you’ll probably want to focus more on long-sleeve shirts and sweaters.
  (Average Max Temperature: 16°C. Average Precipitation: 80mm.)
• Scotland Weather in October: During the month of October in Scotland, days are generally crisp and cool, though precipitation is common with around 100mm falling on average. High temperatures tend toward 13°C, though mountain peaks may receive snow. Later in the month brings higher likelihood of more severe cold arriving, so suitable clothing for varying conditions like a warm waterproof coat, gloves, wool socks, and waterproof boots is advisable.
  (Average Maximum Temperature: 13°C. Average Rainfall: 100mm.)
• Weather trends in Scotland for November: It’s winter now regardless of the calendar’s designation. Chilly conditions are likely across Scotland and even colder in the north and east. The typical high is nine degrees Celsius while the low temperature averages three degrees Celsius. This is also the month that usually sees the first snowfall of the winter season. When packing concentrate on items that will keep you comfortable in cold, damp weather with November also seeing an average of one hundred millimeters of precipitation. Daylight hours continue to shorten now too – late in the month the sun doesn’t rise until almost 08:30 and sets just before 16:00, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

(Maximum Typical Temperature: 9°C. Median Precipitation: 100mm.)

• Scotland Weather in December: December brings short, frigid days often obscured by darkness. Afternoon highs of around 6°C and nighttime lows dipping to 2°C create opportunities for snowfall, particularly at higher elevations. The average rainfall of 120mm spread over 22 days underscores preparing for bundled exploration amid the anticipated sights.

(Average Maximum Temperature: 5°C. Average Precipitation: 120mm.)

Scotland Events and Festivals

Scotland in January

• New Year`s Observances in Scotland: Both January 1 and 2 are national holidays in Scotland, allowing revelers to look forward to an extra day of rest after festivities. While some prefer relaxing at home, various special events and activities are hosted across the nation such as plunges into cold water, live musical performances, and races.
• Celtic Connections Glasgow – The largest annual winter music festival of its kind featuring Scottish talent as well as performers from worldwide playing for 18 days of concerts, talks, gatherings, art exhibits, and more beginning in mid-January.
• Burns Night – January 25 honors Scotland`s famous bard Robert Burns globally on his birthday through traditional meals combined with poetry, song, and whisky at Burns Suppers.

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• Up Helly Aa – Visitors to the Shetland Islands in late January shouldn’t miss witnessing Europe`s biggest fire festival, Up Helly Aa. Hosted in Lerwick, it pays homage to the community’s deep-rooted Viking past through torchlit marches, participants in traditional costumes, the burning of a Viking ship, and celebrations long into the night.

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Scotland in February

• Fort William Mountain Festival – This occurrence happens in Lochaber, Scotland’s outdoor capital for five days of walking and climbing films, displays of activities, and discussions celebrating everything related to the outdoors. It’s hosted in the latter half of February.
• Scotland Antiques & Collectors Fair – Hosted during the final weekend of February at Edinburgh’s Royal Highland Centre, Scotland`s largest event for antique goods features an extensive array of high-quality antiquities as well as vintage and retro items.
• Glasgow Film Festival – Beginning in late February, more than 100 films will be screened over 10 days at this festival showcasing innovative films and renowned works from major filmmakers.
• Inverness Music Festival – This music celebration in Inverness takes place over a week, usually starting in late February. Over 1000 contributors take part in a competition to win awards in various Gaelic categories, like instrumental, vocal, and speech.

Scotland in March

• Glasgow Global Comedy Festival – As stated, this festival showcases leading comedians from worldwide. It occurs in various venues across the city over the latter half of March annually.
• Les Soldes (Summer Sales) – Great bargains (and crowds) during this semi-annual retail extravaganza at shops across Paris from mid-June through July.
• Celebrating St. Patrick’s in Edinburgh – There will be events commemorating St. Patrick’s Day throughout Scotland, but the Cowgate St. Patrick’s Festival in Edinburgh is amongst the most popular, taking place around the weekend closest to March 17th spanning three days. Typically there are nine stages across five bars as well as outdoor venues showcasing live Irish music, dance, and plenty of Guinness.
• Bunkered – Previously referred to as the Scottish Golf Show. Hosted for three days in March, this Glasgow occasion includes stands from more than 100 exhibitors, lessons from pro golfers, trick-shot demos, putting areas, a kids zone, and additional features.

Scotland in April

• Loch Lomond Springfest – This fun and complimentary food and drink event is situated at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch. It takes place over a weekend in early April. It includes a wide variety of food and beverages from across the U.K. and beyond, chef demonstrations, children`s entertainment, bars, live music, and more.
• Edinburgh International Harp Festival – Hosted in Edinburgh in the impressive environs of Merchiston Castle School, this festival presents concerts and workshops in early April every year. Artists come from around the globe to showcase their talents with this unique instrument.
• Easter Weekend – Good Friday through Easter Sunday makes for a holiday period across Scotland, leading some businesses like post offices and banks to close for the occasions, while others such as restaurants and many shops remain open. Families commonly gather to share special meals together during this time. Local churches also host unique celebrations, as Easter egg hunts and other festive events take place in numerous cities.
• Beltane Fire Festival – Towards the end of April at Calton Hill in Edinburgh, Scotland, this festival offers a reimagined and modern version of an ancient Celtic ritual from the Iron Age, such as an eye-catching procession, music, dancing, a bonfire, and an abundance of food and drink. Follow the May Queen and Green Man as they journey to ignite the bonfire welcoming the arrival of summer.

Scotland in May

• Early May Bank Vacation – The first Monday of May is a bank vacation across the United Kingdom, including Scotland. It celebrates the coming of summer, providing a day off for many. While schools and many businesses close for the day, most shops and restaurants are open.
• Spirit of Speyside – For a period of 6 consecutive days, Speyside hosts an enjoyable event catering to whisky aficionados, bringing opportunities to sample whisky, regional cuisine, folk music performances, and local handicrafts across multiple areas in Speyside.

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• Edinburgh’s International Children’s Festival hosts the best of children`s theater and dance from around the globe in late May each year, featuring Scottish and international performers.
• Spring Bank Holiday – The last Monday of May is also designated as a bank holiday across the United Kingdom, including Scotland, presenting a day for people to appreciate the warming conditions. Most operations will be closed while the majority of stores and eateries remain open.

Scotland in June

• Dundee Westfest – At the beginning of June each year, Magdalen Green in Dundee is brought to life with enjoyable events such as a fairground, live performances, food stalls, art and crafts displays, children`s rides, and additional attractions.
• The Rum Festival – The Briggait in Glasgow plays host to this rum-centered event in early June. It includes over 100 different varieties of rum, cocktails, cuisine, and music from worldwide regions.
• Kirkcudbright Jazz Celebration – Held in the harbor town of Kirkcudbright over four days in mid-June, this annual jazz festival highlights customary New Orleans swing and Dixieland jazz, and also includes a parade and jazz church service.

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• Edinburgh International Film Festival – Throughout the second half of June, this occasion features the finest in British and global cinema shown in Edinburgh, displaying some of the newest films while allowing opportunities to meet certain artists involved.

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Scotland in July

• Skye Live Festival – Throughout the months of July and August, the Isle of Skye plays host to an eclectic mix of ceilidhs, dancing, comedy performances, and musical shows at different venues to celebrate the local culture and performing arts.

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• Inverness Highland Games – Scotland`s most substantial intra-clan gathering includes traditional athletic contests involving throwing weights, iron balls, rocks, and similar items along with music, drinks, and highland dancing in Inverness.
• Morvern Games and Gala Week – Over a week at Knock Park in Lochaline, this event features some of the most picturesque Highland games in Scotland, along with live music, dancing, food, and more.
• Hebridean Celtic Festival – Across four consecutive days in July, the picturesque Hebridean island of Lewis hosts this cultural extravaganza showcasing modern and traditional music, workshops, lively community gatherings, activities for children, and more.

Scotland in August

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival – This is Scotland’s biggest art festival, held over three weeks in August each year. There will thousands of performances including artists from around the world. Performances include theatre, comedy, dance, as well as circus, cabaret, opera, and many other events.
• Edinburgh Military Tattoo – This spectacular military musical event held throughout much of August, is set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. One of the world’s most magnificent shows, it’s viewed by a television audience of around 100 million spectators.
• Edinburgh International Literary Festival – The globally renowned book festival takes place annually over a fortnight in August in Edinburgh, featuring workshops, debates, talks and meet-the-author opportunities with global literature contributors.

Scotland in September

• The occasion in Braemar – Held in the beginning of September in Braemar, this ranks among the globe’s most famous Highland events and ensures that a part of the royal family will attend. There will also be pipers and dancers.
• Stranraer Oyster Festival – Occurring over three days in mid-September, this festival highlights some of the world’s leading oyster aficionados, top chefs, entertainers, and speakers for a seafood extravaganza in Stranraer along the shores of Loch Ryan.
• The Great British Food Festival event – Floors Castle in Roxburghshire, one of the most historic houses in Scotland, hosts this annual mid-September event that offers something for all, including live music and around 80 food and drink vendors in a magnificent setting. The grounds and gardens will be open to visitors as well.

Scotland in October

• Ayrshire Genuine Ale Festival – For three days each year in early October, this festival held at the Troon Concert Hall in Troon features over 160 genuine ales from across the U.K. along with various genuine ciders.
• Royal National Mod – The primary festival celebrating Scottish Gaelic literature, arts, and culture, commonly called the Mod, happens in mid-October in Glasgow. Enjoy Gaelic music and song, highland dance, drama, sports, literature, and more.

Held in Edinburgh for a fortnight during the latter half of October, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival features verse makers, national word singers, and fictional authors who gather to continue oral traditions of tale telling. Functions will occur throughout the city at differing places

• Supernatural Happenings at Scone Palace – Throughout Scotland, a variety of Halloween festivities will transpire, such as this one held at Scone Palace in Perth. An eerie atmosphere will pervade the grounds which morph into a fright-inducing playground populated by horrors camouflauged within a labyrinth and lurking in the woods, giving material form to night terrors. In cities like Edinburgh there will be haunted dwellings, haunted walking excursions as well as gatherings including the Samhuinn Fire Festival at Calton Hill showcasing colorful costumes, agility, fire dancing and drumming.

Scotland in November

• Finest of the Northwest Art & Fine Skill Display – Locally created gems, garments, paintings, and statuary available for purchase and examination. Kept in Magnuson Park in Northeast Seattle.
• Guy Fawkes` Bonfire Night – November 5 commemorates Guy Fawkes, a person from around the start of the 17th century when his religious beliefs were prohibited, so he tried to explode the King and Parliament on November 5, 1605. It didn’t succeed, so the day celebrates his failure with fireworks displays.
• Oban Winter Festival – For 10 days during the latter half of November, this event celebrates the unique culture of Oban with reindeer, street processions, fire art, international and local performing arts, pipers, and more.
• Edinburgh’s Christmas – Annually beginning in late November, this festive season features a six-week duration of events at various places in Edinburgh. There will be all types of holiday markets, attractions, rides, ice skating, and shows.

Scotland in December

• St. Andrew’s Day – The first Monday in December, is a paid public holiday across Scotland. Most businesses will close, though most shops and eateries will remain open.
• Christmas holiday period – The people of Scotland celebrate three national public holidays around Christmas time, including December 24th, 25th, and 26th, when many businesses will be closed. While most attractions shut down on Christmas Day itself, some tourist spots like Edinburgh Zoo will remain open. Restaurants that choose to open often host special festive dinners.
• Edinburgh’s Hogmanay – One of many planet’s most intricate New Year’s Eve parties is held in Edinburgh starting on December 30. It lasts for four days and includes an enormous road parade, live shows, torchlight parade, and a huge fireworks screen. On New Year’s Day, there will likely be a polar dip with attendees diving into the freezing waters of River Forth, dog sledding competitions and more.