Sure, it's crisp and cold, but those who head to Scotland in January will be rewarded with the quietest environs and lowest prices of the year. This is a great time to bundle up and explore uncrowded cities and snow-dusted scenery. After an early sunset, look for seafood restaurants and snug pubs, especially on January 25 when Scots celebrate their national poet: Robert Burns.
February is a cold and potentially snowy month to visit Scotland; still, it's easy to stay warm with uncrowded cultural attractions, whisky distilleries, and a vast wilderness offering endorphin-inducing activities (and lengthening daylight hours to enjoy them). In fact, this month is Fort William's annual mountain festival for the ultimate fix of outdoor inspiration.
True, most colloquial Scottish terms for the climate refer to fickle—and mostly "dreich" (dreary)—weather, despite which the sun shines more than you may imagine: Palm trees even grow on the west coast, sustained by warm Gulf Stream waters and air. Scotland frequently defies its stereotypes and can be sublime in any season, each uniquely showcasing the country's rugged beauty. So don't let the Scots' talk about the weather put you off.
Get here now: March is the end of low season—a good time to snag travel deals and explore uncrowded attractions, from Edinburgh Castle to the Isle of Skye (combine both for the ultimate road trip). Daylight hours are also increasing as spring approaches for more time outdoors. Keep in mind that there may be an uptick in crowds and prices if Easter falls early.
Welcome to one of the best months of the year to visit Scotland. Not only is the weather warming up this month, but it’s generally sunnier with colorful blossoms and green foliage, which means excellent conditions for spring hiking. And the cherry on top? You'll beat the summer crowds arriving next month.
Autumn is a spectacular time to explore Scotland's cultural cities and rugged scenery. The weather is becoming crisp and cool, and you can say goodbye to the bothersome gnats, called midges, that disappear with the last hints of summer. In other words, this is the perfect time for romantic road trips—with lower rates for luxury resorts—while golfers, hikers, and wildlife-seekers have plenty of options.
Spring is officially here. April is an uplifting month when the Scots dust off winter and embrace sunnier, milder weather and blooming flowers (though snow-covered mountains might persist). This is an ideal time for taking an outdoorsy road trip broken up by hikes and coastal walks before the summer crowds arrive. Don't miss the festival dedicated to whisky near Cairngorms National Park.
July brings the warmest temperatures of the year for exploring the western lochs and isles (and occasional waterfalls) and taking road trips on the north or east coasts. Of course, there's plenty to do in and around lively Glasgow and Edinburgh with easy access to trails, castles, and beaches—just make sure to bring a layer wherever you go.
With early hints of autumn, September is considered one of the best months of the year to travel to Scotland. This is a great time to explore Edinburgh's top sights and take a scenic road trip with fewer crowds than in August, though you can always find a festive vibe at the Pitlochry Highland Games with members of the British royal family.
With short days and long, cozy nights, December is an atmospheric time in Glasgow and Edinburgh with traditional festivities and Christmas markets. Elsewhere, this is one of the quietest (and cheapest) times of the year to enjoy Scotland's beauty on a scenic road trip, whether you prefer wildlife and whisky tasting in the northern Highlands or cliff walks and seafood on the rugged west coast.