places to visit in scotland winter

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Scotland in Winter: What to Do and Where to Go

Scotland in the winter can be an adventure for those who enjoy wintry landscapes and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Read on if you want to tour Scotland in winter , or are curious but want to be convinced. You'll discover fun things to do and find out what to see in Scotland over the winter months.

While the high season in Scotland is the summer and its shoulder months, the winter is becoming more and more popular with visitors. This is because Scotland enjoys some temperate weather all year long (especially for a Northern European country!) meaning the winter, while rainy, isn’t too cold, and is perfect for sightseeing or enjoying nature.

To help you plan what to do and when to come in the winter months in Scotland, we’ve put together a handy guide for you

• Take a look at our Scotland winter tours and vacation packages

When is winter in Scotland?

Winter is technically from December until early  March  and is seen as the off season.

This time coincides with colder temperatures and changeable weather, fewer visitors and shorter daylights hours. It also encompasses some of the big national events, such as Hogmanay, St Andrew’s Day and Burns Night, the birthday and commemoration of celebrated national poet Robert Burns .

Winter climate and weather in Scotland

Scotland enjoys a temperate climate all year long, which is also true in winter when the average daytime temperature is around 5 degrees Celsius (41°F). This means it fares pretty well in comparison to its northern neighbours.

January and February are usually the coldest months. The conditions while mild are more changeable at this period of the year, with more wind, rain, and storms.

It snows a handful of times a year in the cities, and it is more likely toward March than Christmas despite popular beliefs. In the mountains, however, it snows a lot over the winter and you may see snow-capped mountain tops in the distance.

The most distinctive feature of Scottish winter weather is how fickle conditions can be, so we recommend being ready for everything! In one moment the skies may be sunny and bright, but ten minutes later they may be clouded over and shedding a mixture of snow and rain, affectionately called 'sleet'.

Find out more in our weather and temperature guide for Scotland .

Winter packing list for Scotland

The most common question that people ask when they are preparing for a trip to Scotland is often: what should I pack?  Followed by concerns about whether the Scottish weather’s reputation is real.

These are all valid concerns, and the main answer is to be prepared! As the weather is extremely changeable, it’s likely that you could end up exposed to all four seasons within your stay (or even within a day!). For this reason, it’s best to be prepared for all kinds of weather. And as the expression goes, there is no good or bad weather, only good or bad clothing.

We’ve compiled a few recommended items if you’re wondering what to pack for a trip to Scotland:

• A good waterproof and windproof jacket.
• Lots of light layers.
• Hat, scarf and gloves. 
• Warm and waterproof boots.
• Waterproof trousers.

Where to go and what to see in Scotland in winter

If you want to come to Scotland during the off season, whether to avoid the crowds, or experience the Scottish winter, fear not as there is plenty to see and do during the winter months!

Fun things to do in Scotland in winter

It’s worth noting that on top of the beautiful natural landscapes you can enjoy around the country, some of the most popular attractions of Scotland are open and accessible all year long. This includes the Isle of Skye ,  Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition , as well as strongholds like Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, and Dunnottar Castle .

• If you love visiting beautiful old buildings, take a look at these  packages including Scottish castles

Here are some things you may want to do over the winter:

1. Visit Edinburgh in the winter

Edinburgh , Scotland’s capital, is a great destination in the winter for a city break. Edinburgh Castle is opened all year long and if you’re lucky a bit of frost may brighten the darker winter days with white dust along the crags.

During daylight hours we recommend walking up Arthur’s Seat for a great view over the city! Alternatively, you can go for a much shorter walk up Calton Hill. You’ll also be rewarded with a stunning viewpoint.

Most of the Edinburgh  museums are free to visit, making it a great alternative if you’d rather be inside. You could also cosy up with a dram of whisky in a local pub and enjoy true Scottish hospitality .

And if you're an Outlander fan, why not sample one of the places to eat on Scotland's Outlander Trail ? Soon you could be indulging in afternoon tea surrounded by the Signet Library's opulent decor.

2. Visit Glasgow

Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow , is another great stop for a city break, or as a stopover on your way into the Highlands or islands.

Museums are also free and you get a great choice, from modern art, to the world-famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery. The Glasgow Botanic Gardens are also free and the green houses will definitely warm you up! If you’re travelling with the family, kids may love popping into the Glasgow Science Centre on a rainy or colder day.

If you love green spaces, don’t miss walking out to Bellahouston Park on the south side, where you’ll find the House for an Art Lover. In the east, you can roam the Glasgow Green or even the Necropolis and nearby Glasgow Cathedral.

Glasgow is the best place to shop in Scotland, so don’t miss popping into a shop or two on the pedestrian Buchanan Street. Finally, end your day in one of the many restaurants of the city centre. We especially recommend Merchant City with its fairy lights and bustling evening ambiance.

3. Road trip around the Highlands

Scotland is a year-long destination, and this is especially true because roads and attractions are often open and accessible along the various seasons. This isn’t to say that weather conditions do not affect visitors.

While it is possible to road trip around Scotland  in the winter, there are fewer activities, sights, accommodation, and daylight hours to take advantage of during the low season. Roads may also occasionally be closed due to weather conditions, which is more likely during the winter months.

This is especially true of more remote areas, such as the North Coast 500  and some of the isles that may not be as accessible due to ferries running less frequently and being cancelled due to adverse weather.

• Did you know?  If you're lucky you could glimpse the aurora borealis in the Scottish Highlands. Find out more in this guide to  where and when to see the northern lights in Scotland .

We recommend a road trip around the Highlands, up the east coast to Aberdeen , then across to Inverness. You can even easily access Skye as it is connected to the mainland by a bridge. The west coast is particularly pretty too, with Fort William, Glen Coe and Oban being popular stops all year long.

Winter conditions in Scotland, especially in rural locations and the countryside, can easily affect driving conditions. If you’re planning on coming to Scotland for a winter road trip, we advise you to be careful when driving, and to be very flexible and ready for the realities of winter.

• Don't fancy driving in winter? Take a look at our guided group travel packages , with 15 people maximum and a driver-guide at the wheel
• You could also ask about a  personal guided tour of Scotland  and have an experienced private driver take you around Scotland’s top sights in comfort and style

4. Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is a popular stop for those who love winter activities. The Cairngorm Mountain offers some spectacular views and opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. It boasts 30km of pisted runs, 10 lifts, a freestyle park and on-site equipment hire.

For a special opportunity, we recommend visiting the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, one of our travel consultants’ favourite. Roaming freely since 1952, there are currently over 150 reindeer in the herd, mostly located  the Cairngorm Mountains.

One of my favourite winter activities is to visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd. You have the opportunity to hike up to the hill top where you can walk amongst these beautiful creatures and enjoy the feeling of their soft velvet noses on your hands if you wish to have a go at hand feeding them. - Annie Pepperell, Scotland Travel Consultant

5. Highland Perthshire

Perthshire  is a central region of Scotland that you may not know about, but will definitely love visiting!

If you’re driving through, there are many stops you may wish to take. We particularly recommend the Hermitage and Pitlochry.

The Hermitage is located near Dunkeld, a charming village on the banks of the River Tay. The highlight, which is as inspiring in the winter months, is the walk at the Hermitage Forest. You will be rewarded by a view of the romantic Black Linn Falls and Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors.

Pitlochry, located at the edge of the Cairngorms National Park, is another charming Victorian town renowned for its accessibility to great walking trails in the surrounding scenic hills. It is also the home of the smallest whisky distillery in Scotland, Edradour Distillery .

6. Northern lights

While visitors rarely come to Scotland for this, it is possible to see them here!

Scotland has some northern lights activity during the winter months, especially in the northern parts of the country. While the sky is often too cloudy to be able to witness them, in late autumn and early winter, if the weather is on your side and northern lights activity is high, you may just be able to see them if you’re away from light pollution.

We recommend downloading and checking an aurora forecast app, and keeping an eye out especially in the northern isles like Shetland, Orkney, Lewis and Harris.

Winter festivals and events

While August is known as the festival month in Scotland, the winter isn’t free from its exciting events and activities. Some of the biggest traditions are held over the winter and you may find.

Below we’ve put together a list of the winter festivals and events in Scotland you may want to come to here for, or experience while you’re visiting. For instance, you won't want to miss Scotland's legendary Hogmanay (or "New Year's Eve") celebrations . 

• Related: How to celebrate Christmas in Scotland

Scotland winter travel tips

If you do come visit in the winter, here are the last few tips we will leave you with:

• Book early for Hogmanay . It gets really busy in Edinburgh around that time, so make sure to book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment.
• Be flexible . If you’re planning on road tripping around the country, make sure to allow for enough time to get to your daily destinations and always check the road conditions.
• Prepare for changeable weather and road conditions . The winter sees even more changeable conditions, meaning you need to be ready for everything, from sunshine, to rain, to snow. Dress and act accordingly, always keeping your personal safety in mind.
• Factor in short daylight hours . At the height of winter, Edinburgh gets less than 7 hours of daylight, meaning the north gets a bit less. Take this into consideration when sightseeing and driving.

Would you love to see Scotland’s glorious wintry beauty?  Contact us  to g et the help of an Edinburgh-based expert.

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

EXPRESS SCOTLAND - WINTER

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SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS & ISLE OF SKYE - WINTER

Related posts, 7 best festivals & events in scotland.

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14 Best Places to Visit in Scotland in Winter

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Sep 26, 2022

Scotland is an isle of beauty easily appreciated in all seasons. Ruined castles, majestic mountains, craggy cliffs, verdant valleys, and lavish lochs blanket the isle, enticing cameras to start snapping. A dusting of snow and frost transform these natural wonders into an entrancing winter wonderland you won't want to leave.

Whether you're looking to ski, snowboard, ice-skate, or shop in a Christmas market, there is a slew of fun places to visit in Scotland in winter. Book a dogsledding adventure in Cairngorms National Park , climb the basalt hills of Fairy Glen , or cruise the waters of Loch Ness . You could also spy the often elusive northern lights in the Scottish Highlands' Shetland Isles or the Inner Hebrides' beautiful and rustic Isle of Coll .

No matter your plan, be prepared for all types of weather, as it's very unpredictable in Scotland during winter. Warm, waterproof gear is a must, as are thick socks, layers, and a hat. Also, check the tourist attractions you're hoping to visit while sightseeing, as some are only open seasonally.

Our list of the best places to visit in Scotland in winter will help you plan your itinerary.

1. Edinburgh

2. inverness, 4. fort william, 5. ben nevis, 6. isle of skye, 7. cairngorms national park, 8. loch leven, 9. urquhart castle, 10. glencoe mountain resort, 11. perthshire, 12. john muir way, 13. the isle of coll, 14. the shetland islands, map of places to visit in scotland in winter.

While not often covered in snow, Edinburgh becomes even more enchanting under a dusting of white. Edinburgh Castle emits a romantic glow from atop its hilltop home, high above the winding streets of the Royal Mile . Add charming Christmas markets and twinkling lights, and you're in for a wintery treat at this top place to visit.

One of the best places to visit in winter in the UK , Edinburgh boasts plenty of interesting attractions . If the weather is fair, walk up Arthur's Seat , the highest point in Holyrood Park . At the top, you'll find a stellar view of Edinburgh's steepled churches and medieval buildings.

Then, lace up your skates for a twirl around one of the many outdoor ice rinks ( St. Andrew Square offers an oval rink that loops around the Melville Monument ). A twilight skate is particularly romantic, and even more enjoyable when topped with a steaming mug of hot chocolate.

Christmas festivities run from November through January and include rides, a Christmas Tree Maze , Santa's Grotto , and a carousel, as well as the 60-meter-tall Star Flyer . Hogmanay (a.k.a. New Year's) is another popular time filled with festive fun and fireworks shows.

Set at the north end of the spectacular Great Glen , there's no shortage of beauty in Inverness . While you won't want to take a dip in the sparkling Loch Ness at this time of year, walking along its banks and admiring the view from atop Urqhuart Castle is a must-do activity for every winter traveler in Scotland.

Breathe in the fresh, crisp air while marveling at shimmering snow and ice adorning the ancient buildings and picturesque landscape as you hike around the area. Then, book a game of golf at the Inverness Golf Club . Yes, you can still play golf in the winter.

If you're hoping to stay warm, head inside to watch a show at one of the numerous theaters. We highly recommend catching a hilarious pantomime (a.k.a. "panto") at Eden Court Theatre .

Other cozy activities include shopping in the town center, gazing at inspiring works in Castle Gallery, and sitting by a fire while dining in a local restaurant.

The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is the place to go if you're looking to flex your shopping muscles, especially around the holidays. There's a large Christmas market in St. Enoch Square filled with interesting gifts, treats, sparkling lights, and music.

George Square plays host to even more festive fun, introducing a skating rink (a.k.a. Glasgow on Ice), giant Ferris wheel, and carousel, not to mention crafts and treats.

As you wander the streets of Style Mile in your warm winter gear, keep your eyes peeled for beauty. You'll pass stately Victorian homes and other historic buildings so charming your camera will quiver with excitement.

For some indoor entertainment, visit the stately Glasgow Cathedral . Or book a couple of hours for a trip to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum . Established in 1901, this historic building is a mecca of artistic wonders by artists as famed as Van Gogh and Salvador Dali.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Glasgow
• Best Day Trips from Glasgow

A small city in Lochaber , Fort William is the second largest settlement in the Highlands, just behind Inverness . Its historic streets are packed with fun things to do , like visiting Old Inverlochy Castle , walking across Neptune's Staircase , boutique shopping, or dining in one of the many restaurants.

Caught a chill? Stay warm while you soak up the region's history in the Treasures of the Earth and West Highland Museums , or tuck into a hearty pie by the fire at a local eatery.

Dubbed the UK's "outdoor capital," Fort William offers unsurpassable views of the lovely Loch Linnhe, and serves as a base for explorers. The Nevis Range is seven miles away, and the Great Glen , Mallaig , and Glencoe are also close, providing visitors with vast opportunities to hike, bike, sled, and ski.

Wildlife lovers can challenge themselves to spot Scotland's "Big Five": red deer, seals, red squirrels, European otters, and golden eagles. With fewer leaves to hide behind, this task is often accomplished in one day of exploring the areas just outside Fort William.

The Grampian Mountain Range is home to the UK's tallest peak: Ben Nevis. In one year, over 125,000 walkers visit these mountains, some making the arduous and challenging trek (also known as "bagging the Ben") to the summit of its massive star.

If you hope to be one of them, plan your route in advance and pack for all types of weather. Only experienced climbers are recommended to attempt this hike during winter. The easiest path is The Mountain Track , which begins at the parking lot of the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre .

While they may pale in comparison with the Alps, the Scottish mountains outside Fort William offer bountiful opportunities to partake in winter sports. Skiers and snowboarders face an extensive selection of runs and an off-piste area. Snow biking and sledding are also popular at this snowy locale.

Prefer to take it slow? Try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Even better, hop on the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola for a picturesque ride to the top of Aonach Mòr. Two trails are accessible from here: Sgurr Finnisg-aig (about 40 minutes return) and Meall Beag (about an hour both ways).

Didn't pack gear? No worries: you can rent everything from snowshoes to snowboards at Nevis Range Mountain Experience .

Measuring 80 kilometers in length, the Isle of Skye is the largest of the Inner Hebrides archipelago. It's also, arguably, the most beautiful. Boasting fairy glens, ancient rock pools, majestic mountains, and deep rugged valleys, there's so much to admire you'll want to extend your stay.

Visiting in winter comes with multiple bonuses: you won't have to crop tourists out of your photos or pay exorbitant prices for food and lodging. Also, you can easily enjoy a sunrise, which happens at 9am during winter as opposed to 3:30am at other times of the year.

The Fairy Pools are truly magnificent no matter the season, but winter's warm light and sparkling frost lend them a superlative glow. Enter an otherworldly universe at the spectacular Fairy Glen just above Uig . The basalt hills are a wonder to climb, just be careful you don't slip on ice.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in the Isle of Skye

Whether you're a fan of hiking, bird-watching, or taking loads of photographs, you'll love visiting Cairngorm National Park in winter. A sparkling gem of the Scottish Highlands, this top natural attraction is a haven for wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled while walking its trails, and you may spot a red deer or a golden eagle.

You can walk for days in the park's vast expanse, warming yourself with hearty fare at local restaurants. Or, hit the slopes at one of the park's three resorts. Cairn Gorm Mountain , The Lecht Ski Centre , and Glenshee Ski and Snowboard are open (weather permitting) from December to May.

Not a fan of zipping down mountains? Opt for a cross-country ski instead. You can find miles of trails, some through forests, in Slochd and Glenmore . Or book a completely new experience, like a dogsled adventure. Cairngorm Sleddog Center in Aviemore offers guided trips through the Cairngorm Mountain Range .

Deep in the heart of Scotland, 20 miles south of Perth , lies the mesmerizing freshwater Loch Leven . The biggest lowland loch in the country, this is a sanctuary for wildlife and a phenomenal backdrop for photographs.

During winter, over 35,000 birds call Loch Leven home, making it a hot spot for bird-watchers. Visit the RSPB Loch Leven Center to learn more about them, and rent binoculars for an up-close look from the viewing hides.

Loch Leven Castle , located on an island in the loch, is worthy of a visit. Mary Queen of Scots was once held here. The 21-kilometer Loch Leven Heritage Trail is another popular attraction, enticing guests to hike or cycle around the loch, admiring its beauty along the way.

The ruins of Urquhart Castle sit on a headland overlooking the sparkling Loch Ness and offer visitors a glimpse into its 1,000-year-old past. One of the largest castles in the country, this storied spot is unmissable for its innate beauty, unbeatable views, and expansive history.

The best vistas can be had from atop Grant Tower , while a visit to the windowless prison cell is a bit eerie. Kids will be uber impressed by the giant trebuchet plunked in an open area of the main lawn. Then, they can climb the hill to the gift shop for a treat.

Up the fun factor by booking a boat cruise, which offers the added bonus of exploring Loch Ness and seeing the romantic castle from the water. If you're super lucky, you may even spot the Loch Ness Monster, so be sure to have a camera at the ready.

• Read More: Top-Rated Castles in Scotland

During winter, visitors flock to this resort with skis and poles in hand to enjoy its vigorous runs. Home to "the longest and steepest ski run in Scotland," this is the place to be if you dream of soaring down snow-covered slopes in the UK.

There are 20 runs of all levels to explore on skis or a snowboard, and eight lifts to transport visitors to the top. The Plateau Café serves hot food daily, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a mid-day break.

Not a skier? No problem. Guests can also sled or walk the hills to enjoy the winterscape at this natural wonderland.

If you're looking for natural beauty, the historic Perthshire region (a.k.a. the county of Perth and Kinross) has it in spades. Nestled in the center of Scotland, this gorgeous area is home to a segment of the Grampian Mountains , dense forests, and picturesque rivers like the splendid Loch Tay .

In winter, these beauties are made more captivating by shimmering ice and snow. Strap on your boots and walk through the Hermitage Forest where you'll gasp over the incredible scenery. Particularly impressive is Ossian's Hall of Mirrors , a Georgian structure built to offer unbeatable views over the Black Linn Falls . This is by far one of the best places to visit in Perthshire in winter.

Stop in the small, charming villages for a warm cuppa while you chat about life with the friendly locals. Lovely Dunkeld sits on the banks of Loch Tay, boasting adorable medieval streets and ancient buildings begging to be photographed.

Pitlochry , which lies serenely beside Loch Tummel , is a wonderful place to unleash your inner tourist – adorable shops line the quintessentially Scottish streets, and the dining options are vast.

You'll need days to explore the entire 134 miles of the John Muir Trail , dubbed one of the "nicest walks in Scotland." Named in honor of the famed Scottish American naturalist, author, and environmentalist, this massive outdoor route presents visitors with a tranquil way to enjoy the Scottish countryside.

The trail spans central Scotland, from Dunbar on the east coast to Helensburgh on the west. If it's not icy, visitors can bike its length, discovering hidden rivers, bays, and beaches. Walk by sparkling lochs, gaze at rolling hills, and fall in love with enchanting villages on your journey.

Delightful Balloch lies on the shores of Loch Lomond and provides easy access to the vast Loch Lomand & The Trossachs National Park .

Get back to basics with a trip to the Isle of Coll in winter. Fittingly known as Dark Sky Island, this rustic island is one of the best places to visit for seeing the northern lights in Scotland . The isle has only one small village and no streetlights, hence its unique moniker.

The best time to see the Northern Lights is between 10pm and 12am during December and January, but the lights are often visible on a cloudless night between September and late March also.

During the day, the best things to do in winter include exploring the island's beaches; walking up the isle's highest point, Ben Hogh ; golfing on the nine-hole course at Claid ; and fishing. As always, it's best to be prepared for weather changes by wearing layers.

On this small island, you won't bump into many other tourists on the Isle of Coll, which is ideal if you're hoping for a quiet vacation. Also, beyond a taxi, there's no public transportation available on the island. It is reachable by a two-hour-and-40-minute ferry from Oban or a 55-minute boat from Tiree . Told you it was a place to get back to basics.

Bikes can be rented in the main (and only) village, Arinagour and provide an excellent way to explore this 13-mile-wide island in the Inner Hebrides.

The Shetland Islands also top the list of the best places to view the northern lights in Scotland . It's known here as the Mirrie Dancers , and viewing Mother Nature's spectacular nighttime light show is one of the best things to do in Scotland in winter.

This isn't the only tourist attraction worth seeing during your visit, though. Some museums are still open during winter, including the Shetland Museum in Lerwick .

Winter hikes are a popular activity, especially if you stick close to the coast, where you have a heightened chance of spotting whales and otters. The Knab in Lerwick is one of the best places to hike at this time of year, and lucky visitors can spy seals during their trek.

The Shetland Islands consist of close to 100 isles, each of which is worthy of a visit. Time your trip for the Up Helly Aa festival , which takes place in Lerwick, on the last Tuesday of January. This fun-filled event happens over one day and is linked to the Shetland Islands' Viking heritage. It culminates in a torch-lit procession that ends with the community burning a Viking longship created just for this purpose.

Can't make it to Lerwick? No worries. There are 12 other smaller versions of this festival on other Shetland isles.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Places to Visit in Scotland: Now that you know the best places to visit in Scotland in winter, check out the country's best tourist attractions , which include boat trips on Loch Lomond and visiting Urquhart Castle . Along the way, stop off in Scotland's most charming small towns .

Visit these Winter Havens in Europe: Winter comes but once a year. Enjoy building snowmen, visiting Christmas markets, and seeing some of Europe's best cities aglow with festive lights. A trip to Germany in winter is pure magic, while Prague turns into a fairy-tale land under the snow.

More on Scotland

13 BEST Things to do in Scotland in Winter

From wild walks and hikes, to mind-blowing events in the cities, scotland in winter is full of great things to do – just remember to wrap up warm .

If you love exploring the great outdoors, then warming up by a cosy log fire, then Scotland in winter is the place for you! Whether you want to hit the slopes with some fresh snow, take part in massive cultural festivals, or see nature at its finest, you need to visit Scotland during the winter months. 

Some of the best-loved Scotland winter activities take place out in nature. Personally, I love wrapping up in a huge coat and gloves for a snowy hike or for a ski session, before heading to a local pub to sit by a roaring fire and sip a wee dram of whisky. Sounds festive, right?

From diving into Viking festivals in the Shetland Island or learning a new snow sport in Glencoe, to celebrating Scotland’s most famous poet in Edinburgh , I know you’re going to find a winter activity in Scotland that you absolutely love.

So, let’s dive right in and check out some of the best things to do in Scotland in winter.

If you’re planning a visit for a different time of year, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Scotland in summer , our top picks for autumn and our favourite places to visit in Scotland in spring .

Scotland winter weather 

There’s no getting around the fact that Scotland in winter is cold. In fact, you can expect highs of 5°C (41°F) – yep that’s the high… so you’ll need to pack all your winter warmers! You’re likely to encounter some snowfall during the winter months, with around 10-20 snowy days throughout the season. This rises to an average of 40 snowy days if you’re up in the Highlands where the ski resorts are. 

Best things to do in Scotland in winter

Welcome in the new year at hogmanay.

If you find yourself in the Scottish capital around New Year’s Eve, you’re in for a treat. Honestly, I think Hogmanay is one of the best New Year’s celebrations around. With tons of fireworks, music, ceilidhs, drinking, and just general fun, it’s the perfect way to welcome another year.  

Be aware that prices for accommodation do go through the roof around Hogmanay so it’s best to book as early as possible. 

Check out the slopes at the Cairngorms National Park

One of the best Scotland winter activities in skiing. Yes, you can absolutely ski in Scotland, and the Cairngorms National Park is one of the best places to do it! In fact, Cairngorm Mountain is commonly listed as the best ski area in Scotland for beginners.

So, whether you’re a complete novice or you want to get some time on the slopes in the UK, January and February are both great months for skiing in Scotland. 

Celebrate Burns Night in Edinburgh

Are you going to be in Scotland around the 25th of January? Well then, you’re going to have a front-row seat to Burns Night , celebrating Scotland’s most famous national poet, Robert “Rabbie” Burns.

Burns Night is all about celebrating Scottish traditions, from festive ceilidhs to eating your weight in haggis, neeps, and tatties. Wash it all down with some classic Scotch and you’re going to be celebrating like a local in no time.

Experience the Northern Lights in Glencoe

You might not be aware, but you actually can see the Aurora Borealis in Scotland in winter! The general rule of thumb is that the further north you go, the greater your chances are.

That being said, Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands is consistently one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Scotland in winter. That’s because there’s pretty much zero light pollution for miles around and the higher altitude means that on a clear night, you’ve got an unobstructed view of the Aurora! 

Get in the festive spirit at Glasgow’s Christmas Markets

Want to get in the festive spirit? Head to Scotland’s second city, Glasgow during November and December for their amazing Christmas Markets. Glasgow’s well known for its art scene and architecture so it’s the perfect backdrop for a winter getaway.

Indulge in a big mug of mulled wine, get a bratwurst or bag of candied almonds, and wander around the stalls in the evening. It’s an ideal way to get in the Christmassy mood! 

Check out the Up Helly Aa Viking festival in the Shetland Islands

Now, if you’re an intrepid enough explorer to travel up to the Shetland Islands in the far north of Scotland during winter, you’ll be rewarded with a festival like no other. As the Shetlands used to be home to Vikings, there are festivals and traditions that celebrate that culture. 

There’s no Scottish Viking festival better than Up Helly Aa , held in Lerwick on the last Tuesday in January. With huge fire displays, processions, music, dancing, and drinking, it has to be seen to be believed!

Try snowshoeing in the Scottish Highlands

If you’re not keen on skiing or snowboarding and want to try a less intense snowsport, why not try out snowshoeing in the Scottish Highlands? Snowshoeing is a sport popular in the US and in Europe. You just clip the grippy contraption onto your boots. Once on, you can explore snowy hiking trails with relative ease.

There are popular and established snowshoeing trails all around the Scottish Highlands, including around Glencoe and near the base of the mighty Ben Nevis ! 

Enjoy a winter road trip on the West Coast

Now, you might not think that winter is the best time for a road trip through Scotland, but it can be pretty liberating to see the natural beauty without the crowds. Snow can be an issue, so pop on some winter tyres or bring some snow chains with you. If you stick to coastal routes, you’re less likely to have issues.

The west coast of Scotland includes places like Fort William, Glencoe, Oban, and the Western Islands like the Inner Hebrides. These are all beautiful spots to visit, especially with a dusting of snow on the tops of the mountains!

Dive into history at Edinburgh Castle

If you’re staying in Scotland’s beautiful cities, why not dive into some history and culture? The beautiful Edinburgh Castle is considered one of the best Scotland winter activities and is perfect for a rainy day.

Not only is it an outstanding 11th-century castle, it’s also home to some pretty fancy crown jewels. It has historic barracks, and even houses the National War Museum of Scotland. When the rain clears, you can also get amazing views across the city from its standpoint on top of Castle Rock.

Enjoy a day trip to Loch Ness

There are few Scottish myths that are more famous than Nessie the Loch Ness Monster. If you want to go monster hunting, or just spend a lovely day out on the water, Loch Ness pleasure cruises actually run all year round. 

The added benefit of going in winter is that there are hardly any tourists and if it’s a crisp and clear day, you should be able to spot a ton of native wildlife and birds! 

Warm up with a whisky tour

Is there a better way to warm up than with a snifter of classic Scottish whisky? Winter is a great time to hit up some of Scotland’s most famous whisky distilleries. They won’t be crowded and it’s a wonderful way to explore Scottish culture while staying warm and dry!

Some of the most popular whisky distilleries to visit include Islay, Lagavulin, Talisker, and Oban, but of course, there are hundreds to check out all across the country!

Try your hand at ice climbing in Kinlochleven

Ice climbing might sound like a daunting winter activity to undertake, but Kinlochleven actually has an indoor ice climbing wall where you can give it a go. In fact, Ice Factor is the largest indoor ice climbing centre in the entire world! 

The centre uses real snow and ice to keep the experience authentic, so whether you’ve never ice climbed in your life or you’re an intrepid winter mountaineer, this is a super cool winter activity in Scotland that you have to check out!

Explore Loch Lomond by foot

Loch Lomond , about an hour outside Glasgow, is hands down one of the most stunning places in the UK. In the summer months, it’s packed with tourists kayaking, cycling, or hiking around the lake. However, in winter these numbers drop through the floor and there’s a tranquil calm to the area. 

If you’re looking for a relaxing hike or long walk that doesn’t involve a ton of snow, the pathways around the banks of Loch Lomond might be a decent shout. Although there is snow on the higher altitude paths, if you stick close to the loch, the chances of snow are really low. You still need to wrap up warm though!

So, there you have it, the best things to see, do, and enjoy in Scotland in winter. What are your favourite things to do in Scotland from December to February? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll be sure to check them out!

Also, if you’re planning a visit for a different time of year, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Scotland in summer , our top picks for autumn and our favourite places to visit in Scotland in spring .

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• Scottish Seasons & Months

Scotland in Winter: Our Complete Guide

Between the months of December, January, and February, Scotland falls into a cold winter recess. The Scottish winter is cold and harsh, but also ethereally beautiful if you know where to look. The shorter daylight hours don’t put Scots down—in fact, they make a point to celebrate through the winter months as much as they can!

There’s no place quite as magical as Scotland in Winter; from amazing festivals like Hogmanay and Edinburgh Castle of Light to the opportunities for winter sports and gazing at the night sky, visitors to Scotland during the winter months have so many opportunities to enjoy Scottish culture . We’re here to break down everything you need to know about Winter in Scotland.

In This Post

When Does Winter Start in Scotland?

The winter holidays in Scotland start properly on the 1st of December. The first week or two of December has the remnants of Autumn, with milder weather and a temperate climate compared to the rest of the winter months.

If you’re interested in enjoying the winter season at its best, then early December or late February offers the best of winter attractions with the most pleasant weather and minimal snowfalls.

Winter Weather in Scotland

Winter in Scotland, compared to the rest of the year, is quite cold. You can expect a mixture of clear, blue-skied days and cloudy days that bring rain, ice, and snow. Bad weather conditions mean that travelling to Scotland in winter should always be accompanied by an abundance of warm clothes, extra layers, and thick boots.

On average, the daytime temperature in Scotland is 4℃ (around 39℉). The wind chill may make this feel colder than it actually is, especially when exploring the rocky Highland coast or climbing one of Scotland’s Munros. Luckily, while Scotland does share the same latitude as Russia, Canada, and Alaska, you’ll find that the average daytime temperature is more balmy than any of these locations during winter.

Dressing for Winter Months in Scotland

It’s easy to be taken by images of snow-capped peaks and clear night skies during Scottish winter, but you should always be prepared for the harsh realities that the winter months bring. There are a few things that anyone travelling to Scotland should bring along on their trip to the nation, and we’ve outlined the essentials for your winter packing list right here:

Pairs of Thick Socks and Boots

Don’t spend your day out with wet socks, pack a pair of thick socks and boots to save yourself a rainy day catastrophe. For the best results, wear long socks that meet the bottom of your trousers without any skin showing.

A Cosy Hat and Scarf

Even when exploring Scotland’s cities, wrapping your head and neck in a hat and scarf is the best way to tackle the harsh winter wind. If you’re planning to attend exciting events in the evening, then doubly so.

Waterproof Trousers

Waterproof trousers are a godsend for when the winter weather lets it pour down. While Scotland in winter has some clear days, bringing a pair of waterproof trousers will save your trip and help avoid you catching a cold.

Scotland in Winter: Month by Month

Winter in Scotland is not the same on a month-by-month basis. In fact, travelling to Scotland in December, January, and February will differ quite a bit depending on the activities you’re looking for and the weather to pack for. We’ve outlined the winter months one by one in Scotland so you know exactly which one is right for your travels.

December in Scotland

Scotland in December is undoubtedly one of the most exciting times for the nation, not only during the winter season but the entire year too! December is packed full of activities to do, from Christmas parties to New Year’s Eve parties and traditional Scottish celebrations. Accompanying these winter wonderland festivals are delicious Scottish cuisine and drams of whisky—what more could you ask for?

We also can’t forget about Scotland’s very own New Year’s celebration, Hogmanay! This famed Edinburgh party brings in the new year right, the Scottish way. The rest of Scotland in winter is also well worth exploring, with plenty of opportunities for a winter road trip. The Cairngorm National Park is also an excellent attraction when visiting Scotland in December, with the Cairngorm Reindeer Park being an especially festive attraction.

We’ve written a full guide to visiting Scotland in December and the festive season that awaits—check it out here.

January in Scotland

As the festival season lulls into the New Year, January offers a blissful time for relaxed exploration in Scotland. The winter during December is still cold, although the days are slowly becoming longer and longer after the Winter Solstice. One of the highlights of the month is Burns Night.

Burns Night takes place on the 25th of January, celebrating the birthday of the Scottish poet Robert Burns. Celebrate this heralded Scottish icon by having a Burns Supper, which is often a delicious haggis that’s served with tatties and neeps (mashed potatoes and turnips).

Check out our Scotland in January guide if you want to learn more about visiting Scotland during this wintery month.

February in Scotland

To round out the winter season we have February, the shortest month in the year. But while winter conditions haven’t ceased just yet, you can see plenty of attractions with the 28 days that February has to offer. The highlight of the month is undoubtedly the Scottish Snowdrop Festival.

The Scottish Snowdrop Festival rounds off the winter months beautifully, and you can see these budding flowers bloom in several locations throughout the country. Some popular ones include the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, Dunrobin Castle in the Highlands, and the Logan Botanic Garden in Dumfries and Galloway. These beautiful flowers are quite the sight to behold, signifying that the icy conditions fading away come early March.

A romantic Valentine’s Day trip is also well worth visiting Scotland for, with plenty of options for attractions to see, like Arthur’s Seat, Stirling Castle , and more. Scotland sees fewer visitors in February, which is ideal for a romantic getaway. Read our full guide for Scotland in February here .

Winter Events in Scotland

Now that you’re all packed and know which month you’ll be visiting our fair nation, you need some attractions, things to do, and events to look forward to! We’ve detailed all the major attractions and events during Scotland’s winters that are worth attending, so feel free to add some of these to your to-do list on your journey.

Enjoy Edinburgh’s Holidays Attractions

From December to February, Scotland’s winter months are filled with beautiful attractions to look forward to. Each month is stocked full of activities, from the abundance of winter festivals in December to the quaint and natural Scottish holidays in January and February. Let’s take a quick tour of what Winter Edinburgh , Glasgow, and the rest of Scotland have in store for you.

In December, Scotland comes alive with Christmas markets—indulge yourself with twinkling lights, hot chocolate, mulled wine, and piping hot Scottish foods. Edinburgh and Glasgow are winter hot spots, with notable events like the Edinburgh Castle of Light, Winter Wonderland Glasgow Festival, and plenty of opportunities for Christmas shopping to be had.

Come January and February, and the events die down, but there’s still plenty to see. Burns Night, Six Nations, and the Snowdrop Festival are all unmissable attractions for a visitor to the Scottish cities during the new year.

Have a Burns Night Supper

Speaking of, why not participate in a thoroughly Scottish like Burns Night! There are several festivals year-round that celebrate Scottish figures, like St Andrew’s Day. These amazing traditional festivals offer the chance to enjoy proper Scottish meals and drinks along with Scots to celebrate the nation’s fascinating history.

Burns Night takes place on the 25th of January, the birthday of Robert Burns—renowned poet of Scotland. A Burns Supper is typically a traditional meal consisting of Scotland’s favourite Haggis and Neeps and Tatties (mashed potatoes and turnips). It’s a scrumptious meal unique to Scotland, so don’t miss out the next time you’re visiting Scotland in January.

See the Northern Lights

When someone talks about visiting Scotland in the winter, the Northern Lights are one of the top attractions to see. The daylight hours during Scottish winter are much shorter than the rest of the year, offering visitors the chance to see the aurora borealis if they’re patient enough. So when the sun begins to set at 4 o’clock in the afternoon, think of it as your chance to see the fairy lights of the night sky!

For the best chances to see the Northern Lights, always head to the northern parts of Scotland that have few major cities. The Highlands and Islands of Scotland are considered to be the very best places to visit in Scotland in winter for a chance to see the Northern Lights, or the ‘Mirrie Dancers’ as they’re called in Scotland. But even within the Highlands and Islands, there are few locations that offer an unparalleled view of the night sky.

These are designated Dark Skies areas, where the Scottish night sky can be seen without the interference of light pollution. Places like the Galloway Dark Forest Park in the Cairngorm mountain range show off the stars, planets, and even the Milky Way in full glory. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars—you’ll need them!

Dive into the Cairngorms National Park

While the Cairngorms National Park is a hot spot during the Scottish summer, winter brings an ethereal beauty to the national park that can’t be missed. Although some of the park’s attractions are closed during the winter months, there’s still plenty to see during your visit.

For example, the snow-laden forests are still home to birds and critters who scurry along the tree limbs and roots to find pockets of food and warmth. The night sky is also one of the defining features of the Cairngorms in winter, with long stretches of sky that aren’t affected by light pollution. If you have a day where all you want to do is appreciate winter’s majesty in Scotland, then the Cairngorms are the place for you.

Visit the Cairngorms Reindeer Centre

One of the highlights of the Cairngorms National Park during Winter is undoubtedly the Cairngorms Reindeer Centre . Here, you can learn plenty about how reindeer combat the cold winter weather of Scotland and how they survive in the summertime when it gets warmer. You can walk alongside the reindeer, pet them, and take plenty of photos too.

Scotland in Winter has plenty of great activities at places like the Highland Wildlife Park, so we highly recommend you pay this attraction a visit during your visit.

Enjoy Scotland’s Ski Resorts

One of the most popular sports activities in Scotland is skiing and snowboarding. During Winter, the snow-capped peaks of the Highlands become a hub for activity, with thousands of tourists flocking to get their ski poles in the snow. The winter ski resort seasons last from December to early April, so ensure you try famed resorts like Glenshee Ski Centre and Glencoe.

Indulge in your Favourite Malt

While May is considered to be “Whisky Month” in Scotland, you’ll soon find that a good malt whisky during the height of the Scottish winter is one of the best ways to savour the spirit. There’s hardly a town or city in Scotland that doesn’t have a distillery serving decade-old whisky, gin, or rum, so you’re really spoilt for choice on where and what to taste.

If you want to try the best of the best, warm yourself up on the Isle of Arran, the Scottish Isles , and the capitals of Edinburgh and Glasgow . We’ve written extensive pieces of each of them, so please check them out if you’re interested in discovering the top distilleries that Scotland has to offer.

Explore the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the most popular attractions in Scotland, and in winter, you can enjoy all the amazing wildlife and historic attractions that the isle has to offer without the tourists. The Isle of Skye sits offer Scotland’s West Coast, within the region known as the Outer Hebrides. It takes a little driving, but rest assured, there are plenty of things to do along the way.

The perks of visiting the Isle of Skye during the winter season are the untapped wilderness that you can enjoy. Without the summer wave of tourists, the Isle of Skye becomes the untamed and rugged natural haven that many come to visit. Birdlife, deer, seals, orcas, and sheep are happy to welcome new visitors to the Isle. And although daylight hours are shorter, the Northern Lights can be easily seen by the naked eye— if you have the patience, of course!

Stay in a Beautiful Scottish Castle

There’s nothing more comforting than a roaring fire, stunning views, and a warm grip around a mug of hot chocolate. This and more can be your reality when you book one of Scotland’s castles for a few nights. There are plenty of amazing places in the Highlands and Lowlands that allow you to stay overnight in a historic Scottish castle —which is an experience you won’t soon forget.

So why not get away from the noisy hustle and bustle of the city and cuddle up with that special someone in an accommodation that will have your friends and family in disbelief?

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a few more questions about exploring Scotland in Winter? We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions and answered them here for you to read.

What is Inverness in Winter like?

Inverness sits in the Scottish Highlands, which means that it experiences a harsher winter climate compared to Edinburgh and Glasgow. Inverness during winter is cold, wet, and crisp—with snow occasionally falling over the city. If you’re interested in exploring a winter wonderland, then climbing the snow-capped peaks near Inverness will be your top opportunity.

The daylight hours in Inverness are slightly shorter than in Edinburgh and Glasgow, with daytime lasting between 8:00 to 16:00 on average. This will depend on the month in winter you visit (December has the shorter daylight hours), and the cloudiness of the weather can affect this too.

Is Scotland Colder than England in Winter?

Scotland in winter is generally colder than England. Scotland sits on a higher latitude, and so the daylight hours are shorter, the days are colder, and snow is more prevalent. Scotland’s exposure to the cold Atlantic and North Sea also contributes to the country’s colder temperatures. If you’re planning to visit Scotland during its winter season from England, you may need to pack an extra layer of clothing but not much more.

What are the Coldest Months in Scotland?

As you’d expect, the coldest months in Scotland are its winter months; December, January, and February. During these months, you should expect daily maximum temperatures that don’t exceed around 5℃ and around 10 to 20 days of snowfall. The days are also shorter during winter months, which contributes to making Scottish winters colder on average.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Scotland in Winter: Things to Do, Planning Advice, Tips and More!

Last updated: December 10, 2022 . Written by Laurence Norah - 13 Comments

Whilst the most popular time to visit Scotland is the summer months, there is plenty to do if you visit Scotland in winter.

We’ve travelled throughout Scotland in winter, and with a bit of preparation and planning, a visit at this time of year will reward you with quieter and less crowded attractions (with some notable exceptions!) and wintery landscapes in the Scottish Highlands.

In this post we’re going to go through some of the many highlights and reasons to visit Scotland in winter, including some of our favourite things to do in winter, as well as some tips for preparing for a winter visit to Scotland. Let’s get started!

Things to do in Scotland in Winter

First, we want to go through some of our favourite activities in Scotland in winter. Some of these are exclusive to the winter time, others can be enjoyed year round.

Scotland is home to five outdoor ski resorts, found in the more mountainous regions of the country. These include three resorts in the Cairngorms National Park , and one in the beautiful Glen Coe valley.

There are also a number of other artificial ski slopes in the UK, but if you want real snow, the ski resorts in Scotland are the only place in the UK to come for ski slopes with real snow.

Whilst the mountains in Scotland are not as high as those you might find in say the Swiss Alps or the Colorado Rockies, there is certainly good skiing or snowboarding to be had, with all the resorts offering everything you might expect, including well groomed slopes and ski lifts.

Generally, the ski resorts in Scotland are open from around December through to April, but this will depend greatly on the weather conditions and snowfall. February is generally the month with the most reliable snow cover.

We have a full guide to all the skiing in Scotland , plus a detailed overview of our experience skiing on Cairngorm Mountain , to help you plan your own Scottish skiing adventure!

Attend Hogmanay or the Christmas Markets

If you’re visiting Scotland in December over the Christmas and New Years Eve periods, then you might want to look into the many events and activities that happen around this time.

Many of the cities and towns across Scotland host some sort of Christmas event, which may be anything from festive Christmas light shows through to Christmas markets.

In Edinburgh for example, the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens is often festooned with a special light display, and the Edinburgh Christmas Markets run from the end of November through to the beginning of January. See more about what’s on in our guide to Edinburgh at Christmas .

If you happen to be in Scotland for New Years Eve, you are definitely in for a treat. New Years Eve, known as Hogmanay in Scotland, is a massive event here, with a wide range of events happening across the country.

Certainly one of the most popular places to be for Hogmanay is Edinburgh, which hosts one of the world’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations. This includes a massive street party, traditional Scottish dances, performances from musicians and street performers, and a huge fireworks display over the castle to mark the event.

There’s also a huge torchlight procession through the streets of Edinburgh on the 30th of December, as well as the annual Loony Dook on the first day of the New Year, as well as a number of other events. If you plan on visiting, check out our detailed guide to Hogmanay in Edinburgh . You might also consider taking a Christmas themed walk with a local!

Take a Wintery Road Trip

We love road tripping in Scotland in winter. There are far fewer cars on the roads, accommodation prices (especially for high end castle properties like this ) are incredibly reasonable, and the scenery is just as spectacular.

Other advantages are the wonderful light, and your chances for seeing some wildlife like deer are increased, as they come down from the high mountains to find food that isn’t covered in snow.

Of course, there are a few things to be aware of. Roads can be icy or snow-filled (especially in the mountainous areas and up north), and the hours of daylight are much shorter, giving you less time to fit everything in. So you will have to plan accordingly and you will want to be flexible.

Also note that many attractions outside of the larger cities close during the winter or have reduced winter hours. So keep this in mind when considering when you want to visit and in your trip planning.

With proper planning though, a road trip in Scotland in winter is definitely worth considering. We’ve driven the North Coast 500 in winter , as well as the Cairngorms , the Isle of Skye ,, and the North East 250 .

We usually carry snow chains in our car (we’ve not had to use them yet!) if heading to northern Scotland. Then it’s just a question of planning the itinerary so we don’t go too quickly, and checking for hotels that are open, as many are closed through the winter months. We have been snowed in once, but as we had a flexible schedule, we just ended up staying an extra night where we were.

Here’s an example of a 1 week NC500 itinerary that you might enjoy following over winter.

Cosy Up in a Far Flung Hideaway or Castle

If there’s one thing we love about Scotland, it’s the huge amount of wilderness and the potential it has for a romantic escape. We’ve travelled all around Scotland and stayed in some gorgeous properties, from romantic castles to cosy cottages.

It’s worth bearing in mind that some of the more remote properties aren’t open all through the winter. We recommend looking at listings on booking.com ,  Sykes Holiday Cottages , or Plum Guide to get started.

We also have a comprehensive guide to the best websites for booking holiday cottages in the UK for lots more ideas!

Winter Festivals

If you miss Hogmanay or the Christmas Markets, fret not. There are lots of other festivals through the winter months in Scotland.

In Scotland in January for example, Burns Night is celebrated. This celebrates the life of Scotland’s most famous poet, Robert, or “Rabbie” Burns, and is held on the 25th January each year – the birthday of the poet.

The festivities vary, but the most common celebration is an evening meal, which will feature readings of poetry, traditional Scottish food, and traditional Scottish dancing. Various locations across Scotland hold different events at this time, from formal dining at locations like Prestonfield House  through to festivals like the Dumfries Big Burns Supper .

See our full guide to celebrating Burns Night in Scotland , which has lots of events and information to help you plan.

Other festivals including the Up Helly Aa viking festival in the Shetland Islands at the end of January, and the celebrations of Scotland’s Patron Saint, St. Andrew, on the 30th November.

Do some Winter Activities

If skiing or snowboarding doesn’t float your boat, there are plenty more opportunities for winter fun in Scotland.

For example, in the Cairngorms National Park you can go sledging at a variety of locations, and even go snowshoeing.

Across Scotland, there are a wide variety of options for wintery activities, from ice climbing  to winter mountaineering . If this sounds like your sort of thing, we recommend getting in touch with Tim from Hamlet Mountaineering , who should be able to arrange something fun to do! You can read our experience of a hike up Suilven and overnight camping trip here .

Or, you could just go for a nice walk and enjoy the snowy landscapes. Whatever works for you!

Take in Scotland’s Cities

With the notable exception of the period over Christmas and New Year, visiting Scotland’s cities in winter will reward you with a quieter experience. This will let you enjoy all the attractions they have on offer, but with fewer fellow visitors around you.

In our experience, most of the major attractions in Scotland’s cities remain open throughout the year, and of course there are plentiful restaurants, shops and cafes as well. The colder weather won’t matter so much if you spend your time indoors, and if you visit in the run up to Christmas, you’ll be able to appreciate the pretty Christmas lights as well.

As examples of popular attractions that are open year round, but which are generally much less busy in the winter, there’s Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Yacht Britannia. These are some of Scotland’s most popular attractions, with millions of visitors a year, and winter will be a much quieter time to visit.

Another popular activity in Scotland is a cruise on Loch Ness , and these also run year-round. This can be done as a day trip from Inverness , Glasgow or Edinburgh . See our guide to visiting Loch Ness for more information.

Of course, you’ll want to be sure that any holidays don’t affect operating hours. The major holidays at this time of year are the 25th and 26th of December, and the 1st and 2nd of January. It’s also worth being aware that school holidays, Christmas and New Year are generally busier times in Scotland’s larger cities.

The three cities we’d recommend for the most attractions open year-round are Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen. But you’ll also find things to do year-round in other cities such as Inverness, Dundee, Stirling, and Fort William.

These cities also make for a good base to explore the surrounding areas, especially if you are visiting Scotland without a car. We have guides to the best day trips from the major cities in Scotland if that sounds of interest to you, including:

• The best day trips from Edinburgh
• The best day trips from Inverness
• The best day trips from Aberdeen
• The best day trips from Glasgow

We also have some guides to visiting Scotland’s major cities, including things to do in Edinburgh , things to do in Glasgow and things to do in Aberdeen , which will get you started with planning your adventure.

Take a Whisky Tasting Tour

What could be more Scottish than sipping a whisky (preferably by a roaring fire), whilst the winter weather howls at the door? Pretty much nothing.

Even if, like Jess, you’re not a huge fan of whisky, we would suggest that a whisky tasting tour is still an essential part of any visit to Scotland, and you can read about our experience taking a whisky tour from Edinburgh here .

When you visit one of the distilleries, you’ll learn all about the way that whisky is made, what makes Scotch whisky so special, the different varieties and flavour profiles of whisky in Scotland, and of course, you’ll get to try some of the good stuff.

There are a wide range of whisky tours you can take in Scotland, which range from day trips like this to multi-day experiences like this .

Another option, if you’re in Edinburgh and don’t want to commit to a day out, is to visit the Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile. This will take you on a journey through all of Scotland’s whisky distilling areas, teach you all about how whisky is made, and even take a look at the largest Scotch whisky collection in the world before sampling a dram of the good stuff.

There are also a number of whisky walking tours in Edinburgh like this one . You can also see more here .

Hunt the Northern Lights

You might not know this, but it is actually possible to see the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, from Scotland. Of course, you have to be fairly lucky – there needs be a strong enough solar storm to make the lights visible this far south, and the skies have to be clear.

If these two factors happen to come together (this does happen rarely!), then you may be rewarded with a spectacular display. The Northern Lights have been seen in Scotland as far south as Edinburgh and the Scottish borders region, so you don’t even need to head to the far north of the country – although your chances of seeing them are much higher if you go further north.

In addition, as the population density in the northern parts of Scotland is much lower, there is far less light pollution. Along the north coast of Scotland and in the highland regions in particular there is very little artificial light, meaning the views of the night skies are pretty stunning.

Even if you don’t get to see the Northern Lights themselves, if you are lucky enough to have a clear night you will be rewarded with gorgeous views of the stars.

Take Advantage of the Winter Light for Photography

One thing that we love about travelling in Scotland in winter is how wonderful the light can be for photography. Whilst the days are shorter, the sun stays low in the sky, meaning that it’s pretty much golden hour all day.

If you happen to be lucky enough to have a little bit of dramatic cloud cover, but not so much as to obscure the sun, then you could end up with some really stunning photos.

There’s no shortage of fantastic photography locations in Scotland to take advantage of the light. Some of our favourite locations to shoot include  Glencoe , these photography location on the North Coast 500 , and these photo spots on the Isle of Skye .

For some tips for shooting at this time of year, see our guide to cold weather and winter photography .

Planning Advice for Visiting Scotland in Winter

Hopefully all of the above have given you some inspiration for planning your winter trip to Scotland. Now, to help you prepare for your trip, we wanted to give you some planning advice so you can make the most of your adventure.

When is Winter in Scotland?

Officially, the Scottish winter runs from the 21st of December through to the 20th March. However, you will usually experience wintery conditions from late October through to early March in our experience.

Weather in Scotland in Winter

Despite its northerly latitude Scotland has a relatively mild climate year round. This means you don’t get temperatures far below freezing in winter, or much above 25C / 77F in summer.

That said, winter in Scotland can certainly be cold, especially if the wind is blowing from the north, which can make the perceived temperature much lower. Snow in the lowlands is possible but uncommon, whilst in the Scottish highlands snow is more likely from December through to March. Rain is also a possibility throughout winter as well.

Temperature wise, from December to March you can expect temperatures in the range of just below freezing to around 12C / 53F.

What to Pack and Wear in Scotland in Winter

As you see from the above, you can expect a range of weather conditions in Scotland in winter! As such, our advice is to pack a variety of lightweight layers that you can put on and take off as the conditions change.

We would suggest thermal base layers for the coldest days, a fleece mid-layer , and, perhaps most importantly, a warm coat . Qualities to look out for in a coat include wind and water proofing.

We would also suggest you bring a warm hat and a warm scarf , as well as a good pair of hiking pants . We have a guide to travel scarves here if you need some more inspiration!

Gloves are super important for keeping your hands warm. I use these which are specifically designed for photography, with a warm merino wool lining and magnetic finger caps.

For rain – we advise a rainproof jacket with hood or bring a poncho or very sturdy umbrella that can withstand wind. If hiking, bring a waterproof cover for your pack and gear.

For footwear, if you’re planning on hiking, then a sturdy pair of shoes are recommended, and we’d generally recommend waterproof shoes anyway as wet feet can quickly make a day miserable.

If you’re visiting Scotland from outside the UK, you are likely going to need a travel adaptor like this so you can plug your devices in. See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

If you’re like us and have a lot of electronic gear, we suggest you travel with a power strip like this , which you can plug into your adaptor.

Daylight hours

This might seem obvious, but it’s worth remembering that Scotland in winter has far fewer hours of daylight than Scotland in summer.

For example, in mid December, you only get seven hours between sunrise and sunset. This is important to keep in mind if you are planning a road trip or other activities that are best done in the daylight. Our advice for this sort of trip is to reduce the number of things you try to do each day, and try to avoid driving at night if you can, as you’ll miss out on the scenery that you came here to see!

Driving Tips

Driving in Scotland in winter is definitely a different experience to driving in summer. In the northern parts of the country, and especially the highlands, snow is not uncommon, and icy conditions can make roads dangerous to drive on. Deer and other animals are also common on the roads after dark.

We’re not saying you shouldn’t drive in Scotland in winter, but you should definitely drive to the conditions, and stick to the more major roads where possible, which are more likely to have been treated for snow and ice. For more advice, see our guide to driving in the UK .

If you’d rather not drive yourself, there are plenty of group and private tours available in Scotland year-round. Our favorite company Rabbies is based in Edinburgh and offers day trip and multi-day trips throughout Scotland. Tours are often not full this time of year so it’s a good time to take one.

Where to Stay in Scotland in Winter

Finding accommodation in the major Scottish cities in winter shouldn’t be a problem, as the majority of the hotel and other accommodation options are open year round. The only time of year where accommodation becomes a bit harder to find in the cities is around New Years Eve, particularly in Edinburgh, where the city becomes very busy. See Edinburgh’s listings on booking.com here .

The story is a bit different when you head out of the cities, and particularly into the highlands of Scotland or the North Coast 500 driving route.

In these regions, a lot of properties have traditionally closed over the winter periods, especially the B&B’s and smaller guesthouses. This is either because they are unable to get staff, or because there hasn’t been enough visitors at this time of year to make opening.

This presents the traveller with both challenge and opportunity. The challenge is to find properties that are open. The opportunity is that many hotels offer incredible deals at this time of year – especially the higher end properties that stay open year round.

As examples of some hotels we’ve stayed at for fantastic deals in the winter months, take a look at Inverlochy Castle  near Fort William or Bunchrew House near Inverness. Otherwise, it’ll just be a question of putting your dates in to booking.com and planning ahead. We know that one of our favourite B&B’s on the North Coast 500 is open year round for example.

For more interesting accommodation options, take a look at either  Plum Guide or AirBnB .

Plum Guide doesn’t have quite so many choices, but they carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. See their listings for Scotland here .

We’ve also used AirBnB all around the world, and they consistently have the most options to choose from. See their listings for Scotland here .

If you can’t find what you want from the above choices, or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the best alternatives to AirBnB which you should check out. We also have a guide to holiday cottages in the UK for specific UK focused options.

Further Reading

Hopefully this post has given you some ideas of what to do in Scotland in winter! To help you further plan your trip we have written a number of other posts about travelling in Scotland and the wider UK . Here are some to get you started.

• For Edinburgh, we have a guide to winter in Edinburgh , as well as guides to Hogmanay in Edinburgh ,  Christmas in Edinburgh , and a general guide to things to do in Edinburgh
• For Glasgow, we have a guide to things to do in Glasgow , a suggested 2 day Glasgow itinerary, and a guide to our favourite day trips from Glasgow
• We also have a guide to things to do in Aberdeen and the best day trips from Inverness
• If you’re looking for road trip inspiration, we have a Skye and Highlands itinerary , a guide to the North Coast 500 , a 3 day North East 250 road trip itinerary and a 5 day NC500 itinerary to get you started!
• We have a detailed guide to visiting Glen Coe which has everything you need to plan your trip
• We also have lots of content across the wider UK, including a 2 week UK road trip itinerary , a guide to visiting Oxford , a 3 day London itinerary and lots more!
• For general planning information, see our guide to the cost of travel in the UK , as well as our guide to driving in the UK .
• Finally, if you would like a guidebook for your trip, we recommend the Rick Steves Scotland guide

And that’s it! As always, we’d love to hear your questions and feedback about this post, or travelling in Scotland in general. Just use the comments section below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!

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Graeme Stewart says

26th October 2023 at 11:36 am

If you want to see the aurora borealis then I would recommend https://aurorawatch.lancs.ac.uk/ which tracks geomagnetic activity and can give advance warning when it will appear. One thing to be aware of is that the Scottish mountains, while not high, can have close to artic conditions on the tops. There is only a few hundred miles of sea between them and Iceland and it’s the wind that is the real problem. You can get 20 degrees C of wind chill.

Laurence Norah says

26th October 2023 at 1:23 pm

Thanks for your tips Graeme, and I agree, Scottish mountains can be cold places for sure!

Debbie Allen says

23rd October 2019 at 11:09 am

Hi, Love reading about your travels. Can I please ask a question? We’re travelling to Scotland in December and will be in Edinburgh for Hogmanay. It’s part of a larger European trip for our family of 5, kids aged 22, 17 and 12. We’ll have an extra 4 days and were hoping to see the Highlands but I’m unsure about where to base ourselves pending the unpredictable weather! I currently have Inverness and Dunkeld booked to use as a base but obviously need to pick one. What would be your recommendation pls? We’re from Australia so driving on the left is no problem. Snow and ice might be though! Thanks so much

24th October 2019 at 12:45 pm

Thanks very much 🙂

My recommendation would be to book Inverness – it’s an excellent base for a number of day trips, including Loch Ness, Fort George, the Black Isle, Cairngorm national park and so on. We actually have a guide to day trips from Inverness for some ideas. Plus the city has lots of places to eat and some indoor attractions (although you’ll want to check opening hours over Christmas). Have a wonderful time!

Meghan Macer says

20th October 2019 at 10:17 pm

Hi there, we hope you can help!! My husband and I would like to take our 4 boys (ages 3-13) to Scotland for Christmas. We only require 3 things within a close proximity to a holiday let: snow, otters and a good pub. Of course, we’re not afraid to journey out and drive for adventure. We’ve been searching and are definitely overwhelmed with narrowing down. PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!

20th October 2019 at 10:24 pm

I will certainly try 🙂 My instinctive reaction as soon as I read your comment was to suggest the Cairngorms National Park. This is where you are likely to find the most reliable snow in Scotland (although it is by no means guaranteed unfortunately). Otters are of course tricky, but the Cairngorms are a good place for a chance. We can recommend a company called Speyside Wildlife who do tours, but please don’t get your hopes too high for otters. That said, red squirrels, badger etc are more of a possibility. There’s even a reindeer herd – can’t get more Christmas than that! Naturally there are also plenty of pubs!

Glencoe / Fort William area is another option, but I’d focus on the Cairngorms if I were you.

Let me know if this helps 🙂

20th October 2019 at 10:47 pm

Thanks very much! Ok- I also have a budding astronomer who has mentioned the Northern Lights. I’m also googling the heck out of this… any recommendations? Northern lights plus snow and a toy otter might just tick all the boxes!!

20th October 2019 at 11:17 pm

My pleasure! So the northern lights can be seen in Scotland, but they are pretty rare! I’ve only seen them myself a couple of times over three years – the problem is getting the right combination of clear skies and activity is difficult. But the Cairngorms would be a good location as they are relatively far north and there isn’t much light pollution 🙂 I wouldn’t plan around seeing them though!

Robert Walker says

12th May 2019 at 10:32 am

Hi, loved you article, so informative thank you. I’m planning a small family reunion in Scotland over the Xmas period and visualised a snowy castle with big open fires and cosy sofas with plenty of walks nearby. Any suggestions? Thanks, RW.

12th May 2019 at 7:15 pm

We’re big fans of Inverlochy Castle, which should fit the bill pretty well. It’s near Fort William and there are lots of walks as well as snowy mountains nearby.

Just be aware that most hotels over Christmas in Scotland will require booking well in advance, and will likely have a special package that will include a minimum number of nights stay 🙂

Have a wonderful trip!

travlermb says

25th January 2019 at 12:04 pm

Great article as always…..have to get back to Scotland soon!

Question: Where to stay…particularly up north? Do many places close for the season? Thanks

25th January 2019 at 2:33 pm

Thanks very much! This is a great question 😀 So good that I’ve added a whole section to the post about it. You are correct though, many places do close for the season, although we have driven the northern parts of Scotland in February and have always found options. Some of the really nice hotels also do incredible deals at this time of year, so you can stay in luxury castle hotels at a fraction of the price that you would pay at the rest of the year 😀

26th January 2019 at 12:15 am

Wow, very fast response! Thanks for the additional information…..

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11 magical things to do when visiting Scotland in Winter

Scotland in winter is probably not everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you like your travel with a hint of sunshine, but it can actually be a great time to visit .

Ruined historical buildings, moody skies, snow capped hills and cosy traditional pubs all await you if you decide to explore Scotland in the winter months.

When I’ve looked at our past trips it’s overwhelmingly the time we tend to to visit Scotland and our most common time to go.  A combination of our wedding anniversary being in winter and cheap accommodation !

A note from the writer: Hey! I’m Kirsty and I’m a UK travel expert – while I grew up in Scotland, as an adult I now return to visit almost every year – there’s so much to see! Shout (or comment below) if you have any questions about your next trip and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book after clicking, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Things to do in Scotland in Winter:

I think Scotland is great at any time, but winter just hits a little bit different. Here are some of the best things you can do when exploring this amazing country in the winter season. Read on to the end for some tips about visiting in winter that aren’t applicable to other times of the year!

Try to see the Northern Lights

You might be surprised to read that you can see the Northern Lights when in Scotland but it’s actually quite possible, even quite far south sometimes.

I have to say that I haven’t managed to see them, even when I grew up there, perhaps as we were always in an area that was too lit up at night.

Winter is one of the best times to see the aurora in Scotland but you can actually see them from September through March.

The best chance to see them is to be as far north as possible and look for clear evenings with no full moon. There are some apps that you can get and social accounts to follow that will help alert to best times for a possible sighting – try searching AuroraWatchUK.

Explore the cities while quiet

If you’ve ever explored Scottish cities in the summer or any other busy period throughout the year you’ll know that they can become a little busy, especially with tourists.

Winter doesn’t mean that there are none of course, but there are dramatically fewer around and that can make for a more pleasant time wandering and exploring. It feels most different in Edinburgh but even cities like Glasgow, Stirling and Inverness can have a totally different vibe in winter.

Museums are one of my favourite places to visit in winter while in these cities – many are free as well which is a bonus!

Since it can be cold and damp in Scotland at wintertime it’s worth factoring in some time while exploring to sit in a local cafe for a warming soup or hot chocolate. You’ll not regret it!

Try your hand at skiing

Many people don’t know that Scotland actually has its own ski resorts – the Cairngorms, the Nevis range and also Glencoe are some of the most popular places.

It’s not just skiing you can try your hand at, but snowboarding too. There’s actually a lot on offer in winter in Scotland for those who like a bit of an adventure!

Ski equipment can be hired so no worries if you just want to give it a try and lessons are also available too!

Visit some reindeer

It’s an activity that can be done year round, but in the Cairngorms of Scotland there’s actually a wild roaming, yet tame, herd of reindeer to see.

For anyone looking to visit Scotland with kids it’s a must, but even for those adults among us (me!) who love animals it’s a great day out.

I remember visiting these as a child and it was fantastic – I’m well overdue returning!

Warm up at the pub

With long nights and the darkness falling around 4-5pm you might wonder what you can do in the evenings. My tip – find a pub! Even better, find one that plays traditional Scottish music and really get into the spirit of the area.

Talking of spirits, having a nip of whisky will certainly warm you up on the inside too!

Explore the countryside – frozen lochs and snow capped hills

The countryside can still be explored even in the winter months so don’t let the cold put you off. It’s not always cold enough for snow in Scotland, often times it’s just rainy or damp. Roads are often clear to access areas, but check news reports and traffic websites before setting off.

You might get lucky and see frost underfoot and the snow on the hills around. Perhaps you’ll even see lochs beginning to freeze over. I wonder how Nessie handles the cold at Loch Ness ?

Having good footwear is a must, as is wearing lots of layers and a waterproof before heading on a walk. Don’t attempt any major hills or hikes if you’re unsure – always ask locally if it’s recommended.

Visit some medieval abbeys

Scotland’s history is fascinating and vast but what is better than spending a day where the weather is a bit moody, exploring some old ruined abbey?

There are a number of abbeys in Scotland that you can visit from the four Border Abbeys to Holyrood Abbey next to the palace in Edinburgh. Each one has a similar history but the fate that followed tended to be different which is why some are more ruined than others.

If you can pick only one then I recommend Melrose Abbey in the borders which is incredibly pretty and the town is a great one to spend a night or two with lots of walks nearby.

Discover some traditional festivals

Scotland loves its festivals and traditional holidays and like many countries that have long dark winters, there’s an abundance to choose from. If any are taking place when you’re visiting it’s worth checking out if any events are happening as well.

Scotland loves Christmas and as it’s a predominantly Christian country there’s a lot that happens.

Christmas markets, shows, ice rinks and food stalls pop up in cities all around getting you in the mood for the upcoming holiday.

Be aware that if you’re staying in Scotland over the Christmas period that many shops, restaurants and attractions will close early on Christmas Eve and all day on Christmas Day.

Hogmanay is the Scottish term for New Years Eve and it’s a big deal in Scotland! Wherever you end up in Scotland for the end of the year you’ll find celebrations going on, even if you’re in a small village with just one pub!

For those in Edinburgh there’s a huge celebration, tickets are needed in advance and they normally are sold from September onwards. After an evening singing Auld Lang Syne either start the new year with a Scottish fry up or head into the water at the Firth of Forth for a New Years dip!

Burns Night

Robert Burns is a poet that is fondly remembered in Scotland on Burns Night which is the 25th January each year.

Restaurants or hotels may offer a Burns Supper where a traditional meal of Haggis and Neeps is served while someone addresses the Haggis with some poetry and whisky in hand.

(Haggis is a traditional Scottish food – it’s made of sheep’s innards, oats and spices – actually quite nice. Often vegetarian versions are available if it makes you feel squeamish. Neeps is short for turnips. You might also hear the phrase ‘tatties and neeps’ which is potatoes and turnips.)

Up Helly Aa

Marking the end of Yule season, this Viking Fire festival takes place on Lerwick which is in the Shetland Isles. It takes place on the last Tuesday of January

It’s not happened for the past couple of years but should be back for 2023!

Tips for visiting Scotland in Winter

Weather tips.

Being aware of the weather should be at the top of everyone’s list when coming to Scotland in winter – being prepared means that you’ll not come home thinking that your trip was ruined by it.  Scotland can be stunning in winter so don’t imagine it will be all wet days – cold is pretty much guaranteed though!

The weather in Scotland can be changeable all year round but in the winter months you have a much higher chance of having rain, cold and wind or a combination of them all.  Snow and ice is also a possibility although it depends on where you’re headed to.

If you’re driving in Scotland then rain is something to take care with – don’t drive too fast and too close to other vehicles.  If you’re just sightseeing then make sure to be prepared with rain jackets, waterproof shoes and nice warm clothes in case you need them to change in to!

Wind is the one to watch if you are planning to do any trips to the Scottish islands.  Not only can the boat trips be incredibly choppy and not fun to experience in the high winds but often they can be cancelled with very short notice.  It can depend on where you’re going – some ports struggle with the sea swell more than others.  Keep an eye on the ferry websites before you head out.

Similarly if you need to drive over any of the bigger bridges on the mainland you might find that the can be closed – more often it’s to high sided vehicles but if it’s a very windy day then they may be shut to all vehicles.  Diversions will be in place but they can take you a long way out of your way!

Check opening times / winter timetables

Many attractions either shut down completely in the winter months or have very restricted opening times.  Sometimes that means they might only be open weekends or they close earlier on.  If you have any must see sites in Scotland then make sure that you check whether they’ll be open before moving forward too far with your plans.

For example, we visited the Scottish Borders this year in February and while we found many of the historic castles open (and quiet!) there were still a good few places that we couldn’t see because they were entirely shut in the winter.

When it comes to public transport, and especially the ferries, you should know that some of those operate a completely different timetable than they do in the summer months.  Don’t assume that because there’s a boat to a specific island on Tuesdays in the summer that it will be the same in winter.

Be aware of short daylight hours

With Scotland being so far North it gets really dark early on in the day.  Late December will see the earliest sunset with the solstice around the 21st December and from around 3.30 – 4.00pm you’ll be feeling like it’s night time – cloudy days making it even more so.  If you’re staying further North in Inverness you’ll feel it even more.

This does make for shorter sightseeing time and if you’re staying in cities I’d definitely recommend staying close by to where you’re planning to visit – this means you’re not walking around too far in the dark.  Also it means that if you’re hiring a car you’ll possibly be driving in the dark so bear that in mind too.

Related posts you might like:

• Scotland in December
• Scotland in January
• Scotland in February

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🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scotland Travel FAQ 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Do I need insurance for traveling to Scotland?

YES! I always recommend people take travel insurance when exploring the world!

Check Travel Insurance Master for quote comparisons from different providers.

Do I need a car for visiting Scotland?

YES – If you’re wanting to explore Scotland fully then a car is worthwhile. It will get you to all the best sights and on your own timetable

I recommend DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices in Scotland

How to book accommodation in Scotland?

For hotels I recommend Booking.com

For apartments and cottages check out VRBO

Will my phone work in Scotland?

Perhaps – it depends if you have roaming enabled and beware this can be an expensive way to use your phone.

If you need a SIM for use in Scotland I recommend GiffGaff which you can get and set up before traveling.

What to pack for Scotland

Keep yourself dry be prepared for any weather is my motto for Scotland! A rain jacket and comfy shoes are a must.

See my post about what to pack for Scotland

Do I need midge spray for Scotland?

YES – if you’re traveling in the summer months to any of the west coast, highlands, islands or lochs it’s recommended.

Locals swear by Avon’s Skin So Soft !

If you’re sticking to the cities or traveling in winter, early spring or late fall then you likely won’t need it.

What’s the best guidebook for Scotland?

I really like the Lonely Planet Guidebooks

Where to get flights for Scotland

Skyscanner is my first port of call for finding cheap flights to Scotland.

Do I need a visa for Scotland?

Many countries don’t need a visa for visiting Scotland as tourists (USA, Canada, Aus, NZ and Europe) – it’s always best to check first though .

Kirsty Bartholomew

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Visiting Scotland in Winter: My Best Tips for the Perfect Trip

Have you been thinking about going to Scotland in the winter? I’ve got you covered!

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Scotland is an ideal place to visit if you’re looking for a winter getaway. From the stunning Cairngorms National Park with its towering peaks, steep slopes, and picturesque trails, to the beautiful lochs that sparkle in the snow – there’s something for everyone. With plenty of outdoor activities including skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, you can stay active while enjoying the breathtaking views.

If adventure isn’t your thing, Scotland still has plenty to offer. Spend an afternoon cozied up with a hot chocolate and a book in one of the quaint cafés or pubs. Get lost exploring the winding cobblestone streets of Edinburgh or Glasgow, or spend a night out at the theatre. As winter slowly fades away, participate in Scotland’s traditional celebrations – from Burns Night to Hogmanay, there’s always something happening!

From snow-covered mountain peaks and glistening lochs to cozy pubs and hearty local cuisine – winter in Scotland will be an experience like none other. Whether it’s Christmas markets or outdoor activities that call your name, or even just a few days of peace and quiet, Scotland in winter is the perfect destination.

Scottish Winter Weather

Ah, Scotland in the winter. Crisp, cold air; dark skies lit up by the glow of street lights. There’s something so inviting about the chilly season here that just can’t be matched! As temperatures drop and snow starts to blanket the land, there’s nothing quite like bundling up and exploring this beautiful country at its most picturesque.

Scotland during the winter can be a real treat for those who like to brave the cold weather and get out and about. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or you just want to curl up by a crackling fire in your own cozy cottage, Scotland has something for everyone.

Of course, Scotland in the winter has its own unique set of challenges! Harsh winds can make traveling more difficult, and snowfall will always have an impact on road conditions. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you should stay inside all season long – just be sure to plan ahead and make sure you’re ready for anything the Scottish weather throws at you!

If you do decide to take a trip to Scotland during the winter, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Whether it’s taking a walk down Edinburgh’s cobblestone streets or exploring ancient castles with a local tour guide, you won’t run out of things to do. Scotland’s wintery landscapes also make for beautiful photo opportunities, and you can even take a skiing or snowboarding trip if that’s more your style!

So don’t let the cold weather keep you from experiencing the beauty of Scotland in winter – bundle up and get ready to explore one of Europe’s most enchanting countries! You won’t regret it.

Places to visit in Scotland in Wintertime

No matter where your interests lie, Scotland offers something to savor during the chillier months. From its stunning natural beauty to its unique culture (not to mention delicious food), there’s plenty to explore and enjoy! Here are some of my top picks for places to visit in Scotland during the winter:

• The Cairngorms National Park: This sprawling parkland is home to a wealth of flora and fauna that you can explore in every season. In the winter, you can hike through snow-coated paths and admire the stunning views from its highest peaks.
• Loch Lomond: Scotland’s largest loch is a scenic beauty to behold during any time of year, but it’s particularly spectacular in the winter months when its waters are still and perfectly mirrored against the surrounding hillsides.
• The Scottish Highlands: Scotland’s stunning mountain ranges are a must-see in the winter months, especially from the likes of Glencoe Valley and Ben Nevis. Head out on a guided tour to make sure you don’t miss any of these majestic locations!
• Isle of Skye: When you visit the Isle of Skye in the wintertime, you can expect to be amazed by its stunning beauty. The skies are clearer than ever and there’s something truly special about being one with nature among its vast expanses of mountains, lochs, beaches, and cliffs. Whether you’re out exploring on a crisp morning or admiring the breathtaking sunsets over the horizon, you’ll no doubt have a memorable experience that will stay with you for years to come. Even if it’s chilly outside, there are plenty of things to do indoors such as visiting castles and museums or simply curling up in front of a cozy fire with a cup of hot cocoa.
• The Great Glen Way: Visiting The Great Glen Way in winter is an experience like no other! Think of it as a winter wonderland, with snow-covered hills and remote lochs. It’s the perfect opportunity to take in Scotland’s natural beauty – from the tranquil riverside paths and ancient woodlands to the dramatic mountainscapes of Ben Nevis, its highest peak. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful walk through captivating scenery, The Great Glen Way is the perfect stop during a winter escape.
• Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle: Visiting Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle in the winter is an incredible experience. As the mist descends across the lake, it almost feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. And with snow-capped mountains all around, it’s hard not to be awestruck by its beauty. Plus, with days that are shorter and nights that are longer, you’ll have plenty of time for cozy evenings spent fireside sipping hot cocoa – what could be more magical?! It’s no wonder Scotland in Winter evokes such feelings of enchantment.

Edinburgh in Winter

There’s something magical about this time of year in Edinburgh. The days are shorter, the nights are colder and the wind can be downright bracing – but that doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all season long!

One of the best things about being in Scotland during winter is experiencing some of the unique seasonal activities Edinburgh has to offer. From ice skating at St. Andrew’s Square to cozy Christmas markets, there’s plenty to do and see! You can even take a romantic stroll through Princes Street Gardens while wrapped up in a warm coat and scarf.

The food in Scotland during winter is nothing short of amazing. Hearty stews, warming soups, and delicious local cheeses – there’s something for everyone! Of course, if you’re looking for a bit of comfort food, why not try one of Edinburgh’s famous fish and chips shops? My favorite is Bertie’s …you can’t visit Edinburgh without stopping by!

Winter in Edinburgh wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the castle. The views from the top are simply stunning and provide the perfect backdrop for festive family photos! Afterward, head inside to explore some of the castle’s fascinating historical artifacts.

What to Wear in Scotland during Winter

When you’re visiting Scotland in the winter, you want to make sure that you’re prepared for the cold temperatures and unpredictable weather. We all know that Scotland can get pretty chilly in the winter months. So when it comes to choosing what to wear, layering up is definitely your best bet! Here are some of our top tips:

Start with a base layer: When temperatures drop, you want to think about keeping your body warm from the inside out. A thermal top or undershirt is a great way to start off your winter outfit.

Bring several layers: In Scotland, it’s always best to be prepared! To keep yourself comfortable and warm, pack plenty of lightweight layers that can easily be put on and taken off throughout the day. A couple of sweaters, a thick coat, and a scarf should do the trick.

Wear waterproof gear: Scotland is known for its rain and heavy downpours so you’ll want to make sure that you have some waterproof items in your wardrobe such as a good pair of boots and a rain-proof jacket. It’s also worth investing in a good umbrella!

Don’t forget your accessories: Don’t let the cold stop you from having a bit of fun with your wardrobe. A hat, gloves, and a scarf can make all the difference when it comes to staying warm and comfortable. And why not add a touch of tartan for some extra Scottish flair?

Driving in Scotland in the Winter

If you’re thinking of taking a trip to Scotland in the winter, you may be wondering if driving yourself is a good idea. After all, the weather can be unpredictable and there are plenty of public transportation options available – so why take the risk?

First of all, it’s worth keeping in mind that despite the colder weather, Scotland is actually one of the safest places to drive in Europe. There are strict laws against drink-driving and other dangerous practices, and traffic flows are generally stable thanks to the country’s excellent road network. So in terms of safety, you’re likely to be fine as long as you stick to the rules and drive carefully.

But what about all that snow? Well, it turns out that Scotland is actually well-equipped for dealing with winter weather – most roads are equipped with gritters (heavy vehicles that spread salt on the roads to make them less slippery) and there are plenty of snowplows available to help keep things running smoothly. So while winter weather can certainly be a challenge, it’s nothing you won’t be able to handle with a bit of common sense and caution.

All in all, driving in Scotland during the winter months is definitely doable – you just need to come prepared, drive sensibly, and remember that the weather can be unpredictable. And if all else fails, there are still plenty of great public transportation options available which can help you get around with ease. So go forth and explore Scotland safely!

Scotland in December

This beautiful country comes alive in the colder months – think rolling hills, bright stars, and stunning views.

The snow-capped mountains of Scotland are nothing short of breathtaking. You can even spot deer nibbling away at patches of grass or gathering around an old oak tree. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to catch a dusting of snow on one of your hikes, then you know that it truly is wintertime in Scotland.

And if you find yourself feeling chilly during your travels through the Scottish Highlands (it can get pretty nippy!) then there are plenty of cozy pubs where you can stop in and enjoy a warm beverage and some traditional Scottish fare. Do yourself a favor and try the famous haggis – you won’t regret it!

December is also prime time for spotting wildlife, so be sure to keep an eye out. You can find anything from dolphins and whales playing in the waters off the coast of Scotland to birds of prey soaring above. Plus, if you’re lucky enough, you might even catch sight of a fox or two!

Things to do in Scotland in December

When December rolls around, it’s time to get ready for the chilly months ahead in Scotland! Whether you’re a native or just visiting, there are plenty of things to do and experience during Scotland’s winter season. From outdoor activities like skiing to cozying up by the fire with some hot chocolate, here are some of our favorite activities to enjoy in Scotland during December.

If you’re up for an adventure, why not hit the slopes? With spectacular scenery and plenty of ski resorts located throughout Scotland, it’s the perfect place to try your hand at skiing or snowboarding. If you’d rather take it easy (and keep warm!), many resorts also offer sledding, tubing, and even ice skating.

No matter what part of Scotland you’re visiting, take some time to explore the local markets. December is the perfect time to get into the festive spirit with unique gifts and handmade decorations. Soak up the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas while perusing what’s on offer – there’s always something new to discover!

Don’t forget to check out some of Scotland’s urban centers as well! With cities like Edinburgh boasting stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife, you can make a trip out of exploring Scotland’s rich cultural heritage in comfort and style. From historical castles to chic restaurants, you won’t be short on things to do this winter season.

Edinburgh in December

The temperature drops and the city is transformed into a winter wonderland. With its cobblestone streets, majestic castles, and festive holiday lights, Scotland’s capital is a truly enchanting place to celebrate the Christmas season.

The best way to experience Scotland in winter is on foot. Bundle up against the chill of the air and take a stroll through Edinburgh’s Old Town, and admire your breathtaking surroundings as snowflakes glide ever so gracefully through the sky. As you wander around the city you’ll find plenty of cozy pubs and cafés that offer warm drinks and delightful treats to help keep you warm.

December is also an exciting time for cultural events in Edinburgh. With its grand theatres, museums, and art galleries, there is something on offer for everyone. From traditional Scottish highland games to classical music concerts, the city comes alive with festivities during the holiday season.

Christmas in Scotland

Christmas in Scotland is an enchanting time of year, full of festive cheer and special traditions.

In Edinburgh and Glasgow, there are plenty of markets selling local crafts and delicious food throughout December. You can also check out the famous Christmas lights displays at George Square or Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh.

If you’re looking to experience a truly unique holiday celebration, head to Scotland during wintertime. Scots have their own special traditions for Christmas that will surely fill the season with cheer! One of the most popular is ‘First-Footing’, which involves someone entering the home just after midnight on New Year’s Day bearing gifts such as coal, whiskey, shortbread, and cake. This person is usually the first visitor of the new year and it’s considered lucky if they have dark hair! There are also numerous outdoor events like festive markets and carol-singing gatherings that take place throughout December.

Happy Hogmanay! Happy New Year!

When it comes to Scottish New Year’s celebrations, there’s nothing quite like Hogmanay. This is when Scots really pull out all the stops for their festivities. The entire country gets involved in hosting big festivals, events, music concerts, and parties that last well into the night. For example, Edinburgh celebrates with its famous Street Party which has live entertainment and fireworks that light up the sky at midnight. Glasgow also puts on an amazing New Year’s celebration with live music, street performances, and a massive fireworks display.

The fun doesn’t stop there – you can join in the celebrations all over Scotland! Many towns and villages will have their own parties that include Scottish traditions like ‘first footing’. This is when someone comes to your door at midnight with gifts of coal or whisky – it’s said that this brings luck for the upcoming year. There are also plenty of pubs and clubs that host special events for those who want to dance the night away.

If you’re planning on doing Hogmanay this year…book ASAP! Places fill up fast…like right after the previous New Year’s Eve fast. Book now!

Visiting Scotland in January

Do you love the chilly winter months, but want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Scotland in January is the perfect destination for you!

Scotland’s scenery looks especially magical during the colder months of the year. Imagine snow-capped mountains and valleys blanketed in a thick layer of frost. If you’re lucky enough, you may even get to witness spectacular Aurora Borealis displays that fill the skies with shimmering greens and blues. This makes it an ideal spot for photographers looking to capture some truly remarkable shots!

If you’re looking for a unique vacation spot this winter, Scotland should be right at the top of your list! Sure, it might not have the warm beaches and sunny weather that other countries offer in January, but Scotland has plenty of its own charms that could make for an unforgettable trip.

And lastly, don’t forget about the rich cultural heritage that Scotland offers during this time of year. With various cultural celebrations such as Hogmanay (the Scottish celebration of New Year’s Eve…see above) and Burns Night (celebrating the life and poetry of Robert Burns…see below), you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

Top 5 Things to Do in Edinburgh in January

• Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park: If you’re looking for a truly unique winter experience, then consider taking a hike up Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park during the month of January. The view from the top is breathtaking and offers stunning views of Scotland during the winter months. With milder temperatures than most other parts of Europe, it can be quite pleasant to walk up this ancient volcano even in January.
• Edinburgh Castle: This iconic fortress has been luring visitors for centuries, and it promises plenty of nooks and crannies to explore no matter what time of year it is!
• The Real Mary King’s Close: Inside The Real Mary King’s Close , you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time – complete with period furnishings and live actors ready to tell stories about Edinburgh from centuries ago. It’s truly remarkable to explore this ancient underground cityscape any time of year, but there’s something extra special about experiencing it during Scotland in winter!
• National Gallery of Scotland: The National Gallery of Scotland in Edinburgh is an absolute must-see! Boasting a world-class collection of art, the gallery features works ranging from the Renaissance to the modern day. It’s especially stunning during wintertime when it’s surrounded by thick snow and has a beautiful festive atmosphere. The building itself is impressive too – with its grand Victorian architecture and sweeping staircases.
• Stirling Castle: Visiting Stirling Castle in Scotland during winter is a must-do experience. The castle is situated high above the city, making it the perfect spot to take in the views of snow-dusted hills and lochs on a crisp winter day. The castle itself has an incredible history – from being the site of William Wallace’s victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297, to Mary, Queen of Scots crowning ceremony in 1543, and even serving as a royal residence up until 1660. Its vast collection of artifacts provides a fascinating insight into Scottish life over centuries past.

Things to Do in Scotland in January

• Burns’ Supper: A traditional Burns’ Supper in Scotland is an enjoyable way to experience the country in winter. The meal typically consists of a hearty main dish like haggis and usually includes whisky and other Scottish staples. During the evening, guests partake in readings of Robert Burns’ poetry, followed by speeches about his heritage and life. After that comes the traditional piping, dancing, and singing of songs related to Robert Burn’s work – all while enjoying delicious food! A truly authentic Burns’ Supper is one of the best ways to experience Scotland in winter – a unique cultural event that you won’t soon forget!
• Go stargazing: Stargazing in Scotland in January is an experience not to be missed! With crystal clear skies and darkness that falls early, you can find yourself out among the stars sooner than expected. The beauty of the night sky never fails to amaze, with constellations that stretch far and wide across the horizon. A little bit of research on what’s visible when will make your experience richer as you learn about distant galaxies, star clusters, and even planets! Grab some warm clothes, a thermos of hot chocolate, and head out into the countryside for an unforgettable evening under the stars.
• Try snowshoeing in the Highlands: Snowshoeing in the Scottish Highlands during winter is an incredible experience! Imagine trekking through untouched snow-covered forests, with majestic views of rolling hills and rugged mountains all around. The air is crisp and clean. You’ll feel a sense of calm wash over you as you take it all in. Best of all, the tranquil beauty of Scotland’s wild nature means you won’t see crowds like you do at other tourist sites – ideal for those seeking peaceful and inspiring journeys. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to get some fresh snowfall while out on your snowshoes, you’ll find the joys of powdery bliss!
• Go skiing in Scotland : Scotland has some excellent ski resorts and slopes that cater to both beginner and advanced skiers alike, making it a great destination for all levels. And with crystal-clear skies and plenty of snowfall during winter months, it’s easy to see why so many people flock here every year for their winter getaway!
• Ride the Harry Potter train: If you want to experience Scotland in winter like no other, take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train! This legendary locomotive travels from Fort William to Mallaig along one of the most iconic railway journeys in the world. As you chug through picturesque Highland glens and beside lochs, you’ll get to see spectacular views that will have your jaw dropping. The train also crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, where it’s not uncommon to spot a majestic golden eagle or two. And if you’re lucky, you might even get some snow while in transit—the perfect backdrop for your journey!
• Try winter mountaineering: If you’re brave enough to tackle Scotland’s great outdoors in winter, mountaineering is one of the best ways to explore its majestic and mysterious landscape. Scotland’s dramatic mountain ranges offer some of the most spectacular views available, with challenging climbs that will test experienced mountaineers. From frozen lochs and snow-capped peaks to icy rivers and rugged moorland, Scotland in winter is an exciting and unforgettable experience. Don’t forget your crampons and ice axes, though, as climbing in such conditions will require appropriate gear. With the right preparation and knowledge, winter mountaineering in Scotland can be a truly thrilling adventure – just make sure you bundle up!
• Visit a whisky distillery : Visiting a whisky distillery in Scotland during the winter season is truly one of life’s great pleasures. The chill air and snow-covered landscapes only serve to enhance the warmth of the whisky stills, while the sound of ice crunching beneath your feet adds an extra layer of atmosphere. You can breathe in the aroma of malted barley and taste the smoky peat notes as you sip your single malt whisky. If you’re in Edinburgh, be sure to check out the Scotch Whisky Experience for a really fun tour/tasting!
• Go hunting for the Northern Lights in Scotland: Seeing the Northern Lights in Scotland during winter is an experience like no other. On a cold, crisp evening, watching the ethereal green and purple ribbons of light dance across the sky is truly magical. The best time to see them is typically between September and March when the nights are long and dark, perfect for spotting faint glimmers of aurora. To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, head to one of Scotland’s most remote areas such as Caithness or Shetland. Wrap up warm and keep an eye on weather forecasts and solar activity reports in order to give yourself the best chance of witnessing this natural wonder.

FAQ about Winter in Scotland

Is it worth visiting scotland in winter.

With so much to see and do, from Burns Suppers and whisky tours to stargazing and skiing, Scotland in winter is an unforgettable experience. The crisp air, snow-covered landscape, and cozy pubs only add to the charm of this wonderful country. And if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, then it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

What is the winter like in Scotland?

Winter in Scotland is a truly magical time. With crisp winter air, the gorgeous rolling landscape turns into a snowy wonderland—perfect for exploring with your family and friends. The days are shorter, but that just means you can get cozy by the fireplace inside while watching the snowfall through the window. It’s especially cozy if you can get your hands on some good whisky.

Is it a good time to visit Scotland in December?

It depends on your perspective! The weather can be unpredictable so you’ll need to come prepared for anything but being in Scotland for the holiday season is just one of the best things ever.

How cold can Scotland get in winter?

Scotland in winter can get really cold! Temperatures vary by region but usually range from anywhere between 40°F (5°C) and -10°F (-23°C). That’s a pretty wide temperature range, but the one thing that’s certain is that it gets cold! If you’re visiting Scotland during the winter months, make sure to bring lots of warm clothing – the cold weather can take some getting used to!

Can you see the northern lights in Scotland?

Yes, you can view the northern lights in Scotland! The Aurora Borealis is a spectacular sight to behold, and Scotland provides some of the best spots in the world for watching this natural phenomenon. From the Orkney Islands to Shetland, Caithness and beyond, there are plenty of places around Scotland where you can witness these stunning displays of light in the night sky.

Is it better to visit Scotland in winter or summer?

It really depends on what kind of experience you are looking for! Scotland is a beautiful place in both winter and summer, so it really comes down to personal preference. In the summertime, Scotland boasts a mild climate with plenty of sunshine – perfect for exploring the outdoors and taking in stunning views from the highland hills. On the other hand, visiting in winter means you can take advantage of the spectacular snow-covered landscapes, as well as enjoy the festive atmosphere of Christmas in Scotland.

Is it too cold to visit Scotland in December?

Not at all! Scotland has some of the most breathtaking winter scenery, and December is a great time to experience it. It may be cold, but you can bundle up in cozy layers and embrace the crisp air. Plus, with fewer people visiting during this time, you’ll get to explore without the crowds. Just make sure you bring plenty of warm clothes and sensible shoes, and you should be good to go!

Can you visit the Scottish Highlands in winter?

Yes, you can definitely visit the Scottish Highlands in winter! In fact, some people say that it’s even more beautiful during the colder months. You’ll be treated to stunning views of snow-covered mountains and glistening rivers, plus there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. One thing I would recommend though is double-checking the hours on any attractions you want to visit, some places change their hours during the winter or close entirely.

What are some popular winter activities in Scotland?

Winter in Scotland can be a magical time, with plenty of popular activities to enjoy. There’s skiing and snowboarding in the mountains, or take a walk around the frozen lochs and admire the stunning views. You could even have a go at curling – it’s like shuffleboard on ice!

How to dress for winter when visiting Scotland?

When visiting Scotland in winter, it’s important to dress warmly! Layering is the key – you want to aim for three layers: an undershirt or thin base layer, then a mid-layer like a fleece pullover, and finally, a waterproof jacket. Insulated boots and gloves are also great items to bring with you. And don’t forget a warm hat!

Does it snow in Scotland?

Yes, it does snow in Scotland! Snow is common during the winter months, and while temperatures vary by region, you can usually expect to see some snowfall between October and April. Of course, the amount of snow depends on where you are visiting in Scotland – the higher up you go in the Highlands, the more likely it is that you will be treated to a blanket of white.

Final Thoughts on Scotland in Winter

If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Scotland in winter, there is so much to explore and experience – from skiing and snowboarding in the highlands to viewing the stunning northern lights. Visiting during this time of year can be cold but it’s definitely worth braving the chill for all that Scotland has to offer!

If you’re looking for a really special experience, why not check out my Edinburgh and London Christmas Market Tour ? You’ll be treated to a festive atmosphere, delicious food, and plenty of unique gift-shopping opportunities – making it the perfect winter getaway. So come on over to Scotland and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer during the coldest months of the year!

Still deciding when to go to Scotland? Check out my posts on Fall and Summer in Scotland!

Writer | Planner | World Traveler

Jessy Hamel is a syndicated travel writer and the traveler behind Brighter Things. She is hoping to inspire people to travel more through her blog and sharing her personal trips. You can also travel with her as she hosts small group tours to Europe through Brighter Things Boutique Group Tours.

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Visiting Scotland in winter [Things to do + FAQs]

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 1, 2023

Are you wondering whether a trip to Scotland in winter is a good idea or not? This article will convince you that it is. 

Scotland is a diverse and fascinating destination at any time of the year. It offers something for everyone from historic castles and battlefields to cosmopolitan cities to fantastic hiking and natural scenery. 

Adrenaline junkies can enjoy climbing, mountain biking and coasteering whilst foodies can indulge in a vibrant and thriving Scottish food scene. Winter brings additional snow sports as well as unique winter food and drink to sample. 

Whilst a winter trip to Scotland has its challenges, it also offers several unique opportunities for visitors to experience the cultural and historical events and festivals that Scotland is famous for. 

Advantages of visiting Scotland in winter

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Winter in Scotland can be magical when the hills and glens are covered in snow. The snow-capped Scottish Highlands on a sunny but crisp winter day is an unforgettable experience. 

If you like winter sports you can try snow sports such as skiing, snowboarding and curling. 

You will also encounter fewer foreign and domestic tourists and attractions and transport will be quieter. Plus, it will be too cold for the infamous Scottish midges to bother you. 

As winter is the low season, this is a good time to visit if you want to pick up low cost hotel deals. 

Scotland in winter can get very cold and you will have shorter daylight hours for sightseeing. Whilst you can get sunny, blue sky days in winter you will inevitably get plenty of rainy days too. 

Driving in Scotland in winter on a Scottish road trip can be challenging particularly in rural areas. You will need to research and plan your routes carefully plus keep up to date with local weather forecasts. 

As it is low season, some attractions may have shorter opening hours whilst some may shut for the entire winter season. 

Things to do in Scotland in winter

Wherever you travel in Scotland in winter, there are lots of things to do and events to visit. 

Edinburgh is a fantastic destination to visit at any time of the year but in winter, its wide choice of world class museums are ideal for escaping to on a rainy day. 

Visit the impressive National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish Art Gallery (both of which are free), the famous Edinburgh Castle , the quirky Camera Obscura or the small Writers Museum. You can even escape the rain or snow on an underground tour of St. Mary’s Close.  

Edinburgh in the winter is an atmospheric and lively place so don’t dismiss an Edinburgh winter trip. 

🥃 Whisky Distilleries

If you like Scottish drinks and food, you can warm your winter chills with a tour of a Scottish whiskey distillery. There are over 130 whiskey distilleries in Scotland to choose from. 

All tours include tastings with takeaway ‘driver’s drams’ for anyone who is driving and some tours offer soft drinks for children over 8 years old.

You can expect to pay between £5 – £30 per person per tour depending on the size of your party and the size (and reputation) of the distillery. 

On a tour you will learn about the history of whiskey and discover how it is made. Tours end with tastings of between 3 and 7 whiskeys, depending on the distillery. 

Some distilleries such as the Uilebheist distillery near Inverness , offer master classes and food tastings alongside their general tours. 

You can find a full list of whiskey tours in Scotland here.  

Fort William

Fort William is Scotland’s ‘outdoor capital’ but it is not just a summer playground. 

In winter you can try ice climbing, skiing or snowboarding, join a wildlife safari or take the gondola to the Nevis Range mountain restaurant to savour the winter views. You can avoid winter driving by taking the Jacobite train from Fort William across the Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig. 

Irn-Bru Carnival

Named after one of Scotland’s most popular soft drinks, this three week indoor winter festival is Europe’s largest indoor funfair. 

The huge indoor site in Glasgow offers something for all ages and is the perfect fun day out for all ages. Entrance tickets to the Irn Bru Carnival include ten vouchers for rides but you can purchase more vouchers during the day if you wish. It is one of the best indoor events in Glasgow in winter. 

Up Helly Aa

Up Helly Aa takes place in towns around northern Scotland with the largest event held in Lerwick on the Shetland Isles. It is held on the last Tuesday in January and has been running for the past 150 years. Up Helly Aa is Europe’s largest fire festival and attracts visitors from all over the world. 

The event marks the end of the Yuletide period and consists of torchlit processions by ‘squads’ led by a ‘jarl’ which culminates in the burning of a replica Viking Longship. After this, the squads hit the town to party. 

If you are looking for unique things to do in Scotland, Up Helly Aa should be top of your list. 

Dundee Winterfest

This five week long event takes place in Slessor Gardens in the heart of Dundee. It consists of a ferris wheel, an outdoor ice rink and a vintage funfair plus a Bavarian bar. 

It is a fun, free to enter event for all the family (you just pay for the activities once inside) and is well worth visiting if you are in the Dundee area. 

⛷ Skiing

Scotland is a relatively undiscovered ski destination but there are six ski resorts that offer beginner and advanced ski and snowboard slopes. If you wish to try skiing, most resorts offer taster sessions or short beginner courses with equipment hire available on site. 

Visit the Glenshee Ski Centre near Braemar which is the largest ski centre in the U.K or any of the ski resorts near Aviemore such as CairnGorm Mountain. 

❄️ Snowshoeing

If you prefer something less energetic and want space and time to soak up the scenic mountain views, join a guided snowshoe hike in the Cairngorms. All equipment can be hired from the tour company.

You will learn how to effectively hike and move on deep snow and can visit out of the way areas that other tourists will not be able to reach by car. 

Curling is a very popular indoor winter sport in Scotland and Scottish teams regularly win medals at global tournaments. 

Curling is a team game played on ice where players expertly aim and slide large flat stones across the ice to hit (or be the closest to) a mark. Members of the same team use brooms to vigorously sweep the surface of the ice to control the speed and direction of the stone. 

The sport can be enjoyed by all ages, abilities and genders and is great fun to watch and to participate in. There are curling centres all over Scotland (usually in ice skating rinks) where you can pre book tutored tasting sessions. It is a must do for any Scotland winter itinerary. 

You can find a session near where you are travelling here .

Hogmanay is synonymous with Scotland and is the country’s biggest winter celebration. 

Hogmanay falls on New Years Eve with celebrations often lasting until January 2nd. Festivities start shortly after midnight with ‘first footing’ when people try to be the first person to cross the threshold (or visit the home) of a friend or family member. Gifts such as shortbread and whisky are exchanged which are believed to bring good luck to the householder. 

You will also hear multiple renditions of ‘Auld Lang Syne’, a song based on a poem by the Scottish poet Robert Burns. 

Many cities and towns hold Hogmanay events which include their own local customs such as fireball swinging in Aberdeenshire and torchlit processions in Fife. 

Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh include live music concerts, fireworks displays and a street party on Princes Street. All Edinburgh events are ticket only so if you plan on visiting, get your ticket here in advance of your visit. 

Hogmanay is, without doubt, one of the best things to do in Scotland in winter. 

Burns Night

Burns Night celebrates the life and works of Robert Burns and is held every year on his birth date of January 25th. 

Burns Nights celebrations start with the arrival of the haggis to bagpipes followed by a traditional Burns Supper of haggis, tatties and neeps washed down by whisky. During the meal, diners are treated to poems and songs. Most events end with a lively Scottish ceilidh. 

If you are in Scotland for Burns night, we highly recommend trying to attend one of these uniquely Scottish events. 

If you are visiting Scotland in late November and December you will be treated to an array of Christmas markets. 

Scotland’s Christmas markets are free to enter and are an excellent opportunity to pick up local crafts, locally made whiskey or to try a warming mulled wine. 

The Christmas Market in St. Enoch and George Square in Glasgow is one of the biggest and best in Scotland. 

Scotland in winter FAQs 

Although December will be the busiest winter month to visit Scotland, it is also the month in which most festivals and events happen. 

Scotland in December will experience higher prices and busy winter attractions but it will also be a lively, fun and festive time to visit. 

In a word – cold! But you will be pleasantly surprised to discover that Scotland in winter is not as cold as other countries which are on the same latitude. 

The average temperature in December in Scotland is 5 degrees C / 41 degrees F. In January and February, the average temperature is 4 degrees C / 40 degrees F. 

However, it is worth remembering that these are the average temperatures across the whole of Scotland. You can expect much colder temperatures if you travel to the far north of Scotland or to anywhere at altitude. A Scottish highlands winter is not for the faint-hearted!

For example, the lowest temperature ever recorded in Aviemore is -14 degrees C / 6.8 degrees F. 

There will be snowfall in the winter months with an average fall of 5 cm per month – though you can expect much more than this in rural and mountainous areas. For example, the average snow depth in the Glenshee ski area is around 19 cm. 

As well as several snowy days per winter month, you can expect plenty of rainy days. December and January see an average of 7 cm of rain per month, dropping to 5.9 cm in February. You can expect an average of 20 rainy days a month during the winter in Scotland!

Many visitors are surprised how much daylight you will have in winter in Scotland. It does not experience the endless darkness of Scandinavian countries. 

In December, there is an average of 7 hours 4 minutes of daylight which rises to 7 hours 41 minutes in Scotland in January. This increases to 9 hours 41 minutes in February. 

It is essential to pack carefully for a trip to Scotland in winter. 

Make sure you pack layers, including thermal base layers, as these will keep you warmer than single bulky items. They will also be easier to remove if you go inside a museum or restaurant and need to cool down. 

Pack a warm, waterproof coat and a woolly hat, scarf and gloves. Warm, thick socks are a must; Merino wool socks are lightweight and will keep your feet dry and warm. 

Don’t forget to pack sturdy, good gripping waterproof shoes or boots which will help you navigate snowy, icy pavements and paths. If you can fit it into your luggage, a collapsible umbrella and a torch are also a good idea. 

Plus, if you plan to do any snow sports, pack some sun cream, sunglasses and lip balm to protect your eyes and skin from the reflective glow of the snow. 

If you can cope with the changeable and chilly Scottish weather, Scotland in winter is a truly magical experience. The hills and glens have an added atmosphere in the wind and rain whilst the snowy Cairngorms and icy lochs create a stunning backdrop for photos. 

Plus, there is nothing better than after a day of cold, windswept sightseeing, retiring to a cosy pub to enjoy a pint of Scottish beer or a wee dram before a roaring log fire. 

We hope this post has convinced you to give Scotland in winter a try!

• Scotland Accommodation Guide
• St Andrews Travel Guide
• Aberdeen Travel Guide
• Visiting the UK in winter
• Visiting the UK in spring
• Visiting the UK in summer
• Visiting the UK in autumn

Travelling Without a Passport

Things to Do in Scotland in Winter

Scotland probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind when planning a winter getaway, but visiting during the off-season comes with some serious perks. You won’t get the endless days of summer, but there are fewer crowds, lower prices, and a whole host of exciting and adventurous activities you can’t experience any other time of the year.

So, assuming you have your comfiest knit jumper and warmest waterproof jacket packed and ready to go, here are some of the best things to do in Scotland in winter.

Travel to: Scotland

Join in on Scotland’s winter festivals and events

No matter what month you visit, there’s always something going on in Scotland ! If your winter getaway falls between November and the end of January, get stuck into these festivals and events on your trip:

• Saint Andrew’s Day. Falling on November 30th every year, Saint Andrew’s Day kicks off Scotland’s winter events in style. This is the day the Scots commemorate their national saint and celebrate Scottish culture with traditional food and rollicking ceilidhs.
• Christmas events. When the holiday season arrives, festive events and activities start rolling out across the country. There’s something for all ages — from ice skating rinks to family-friendly rides — but one of the biggest highlights is Edinburgh’s Christmas markets. Nestled in the heart of the city centre, this is where you can go to stock up on locally-made goods, sip on mulled wine, and indulge in delicious street food.
• Hogmanay. If you’re sticking around to ring in the new year in Scotland, you’re in for one unforgettable party! End-of-year festivities take place everywhere from Oban to Inverness, Glasgow and Aberdeen, but the country’s capital is the ultimate place to spend New Year’s Eve (or Hogmanay as the Scots call it). With a torchlit procession led by Vikings from Shetland, an outdoor ceilidh, and a massive street party, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay event is by far the biggest celebration of the year.
• Burns Night. If a night filled with haggis, whisky, poetry, and ceilidh dancing sounds like your idea of a party, you don’t want to miss the annual Burns Night celebrations on January 25th. Marking the birthday of the country’s national poet, Robert Burns, Scots come together from all over the country to celebrate the life, work, and legacy of this cultural icon.

See Also: The Best Castles You Can Stay at in Scotland

Go on a road trip

The great thing about winter in Scotland is that it’s typically not as extreme as other parts of Europe. Sure, it’s cold, windy, and often rainy, but even during the coldest months, the average maximum daytime temperatures typically hover between 5°C (41°F) and 7°C (45°F).

With relatively mild weather and fewer cars on the road, winter can be a great time to go road tripping. Visit the Isle of Skye for a few nights or spend a week exploring the Northern Highlands along the North Coast 500 — either way, you’re guaranteed to be surrounded by spectacularly dramatic scenery.

Now, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to a winter road trip: roads can be icy and snow-covered (especially up north) and the hours of daylight are shorter, so you’ll need to be flexible and plan accordingly before heading off on a Highland adventure.

If you don’t feel confident driving a manual car in winter conditions, join a multi-day tour and let your guide take you from point A to point B while you kick back and marvel at the scenery.

Experience Scotland’s top attractions without the crowds

How would you like to visit famous sights like Edinburgh Castle or Skye’s Fairy Pools without the annoying queues and tourist crowds? Visiting during the off-season winter months means you might just have attractions like these almost entirely to yourself!

See Also: We Rank the Best Hikes for Beginners in Scotland

Embrace the cold with winter activities

While curling up beside a fireplace in a cosy pub is one of the most enticing things about visiting Scotland in winter, there’s no shortage of reasons for you to layer up and make the most of the delightfully chilly weather.

Whether it’s a leisurely walk up Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, snowshoeing at Nevis Range, or winter mountaineering in Aviemore, there are loads of opportunities for winter fun in Scotland.

Ski lovers are in luck, too: Scotland is home to several outdoor ski resorts (two in the Highlands and three in the Cairngorms National Park) — including one of the largest resorts in the UK: Glenshee.

Warm up with a whisky tasting

You can’t visit Scotland without trying the country’s national drink: whisky — a revered spirit that will warm you up on even the coldest of days.

Join a whisky tasting tour and explore the Malt Whisky Trail in Speyside — a route that covers eight distilleries  — or hop on a ferry to Islay , a tiny island that’s renowned for producing some of the best single malt whisky in the world. If you’re short on time, take a day trip from Edinburgh or Glasgow and tour nearby distilleries like Glengyone. 

Don’t have time for a day trip? No problem! You can still get a taste of Scotland’s national drink even if you stay within the confines of the country’s capital. If you’re a whisky newbie, the Scotch Whisky Experience — Edinburgh’s premier whisky attraction — is the perfect place to start. 

If, on the other hand, you’d rather just enjoy a wee dram in an atmospheric setting, make a beeline for renowned pubs like The Bow Bar, The Devil’s Advocate, and Usquabae.

See Also: Where to Find the Most Haunted Places in Scotland

Fill up on traditional Scottish food

Rich, hearty, and (usually) loaded with carbs, traditional Scottish food was made for cold weather. 

Beyond the iconic dish of haggis, neeps, and tatties, some of the country’s sweet and savoury culinary highlights include cullen skink (a thick, creamy soup made with haddock and potatoes), scotch pies, fresh fish and shellfish, cranachan (a dessert made with oats, raspberries, cream, and whisky), and buttery shortbread biscuits.

Chase the northern lights

Since Scotland lies at the same latitude as Stavanger in Norway, there’s a chance you might be able to catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring aurora borealis on your Scottish winter getaway.

You’re most likely to witness this elusive phenomenon in northerly destinations like Shetland, Orkney, and the North West Highlands, but the conditions have to be just right — which means clear skies, limited light pollution, and increased solar activity.

Tips for travelling to Scotland in winter

• Pack for all weather conditions. Scottish winter weather is notoriously fickle, so you’ll need to be ready for everything — from sun to rain and snow. Be sure to pack warm layers, an umbrella, and a windproof and waterproof jacket.
• Be flexible. There’s a chance you may have to change your plans due to inclement weather conditions (especially if you’re planning a road trip or if you’re travelling around the northern part of the country).
• Factor in shorter daylight hours. The days are much shorter in winter (you’ll have roughly seven hours between sunrise and sunset in mid-December, for example), so remember to schedule activities like tours and hikes — as well as long drives — earlier in the day.
• Plan ahead. Some attractions outside Scotland’s larger cities may have reduced hours or be closed throughout the winter months, so be sure to double-check opening times when mapping out your itinerary.

Have you been to Scotland in winter? Or would you consider booking a Scottish winter getaway?

Ashley Nitransky

Ashley is a Content Editor at TourRadar. When she’s not writing, travelling, or obsessively checking flight prices on Skyscanner, you can find her attempting to fine-tune her photography skills or watching a shark documentary.

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Visit Scotland in Winter: Multi-Day Itinerary and Guide

Visit Scotland in winter for a wonderful holiday destination!

[Updated April 2020]

This post contains affiliate links for which Expedition Wildlife may receive a commission (where applicable) at no additional cost to you.

Spending the holiday season in the Scottish Highlands is perfect for those who  love the outdoors and don’t mind bundling up a little bit  to head out and explore.

Christmas markets fill the cobblestone streets of centuries-old towns and cities. Jovial laughter and singing spill out of warmly-lit restaurants and bars. And, the tourist crowds are all but nonexistent compared to summertime.

Visiting Scotland in Wintertime

Of course, you don’t have to go in wintertime for this to be an amazing itinerary.

There are only about six hours of daylight in December. Despite the shorter days, there’s plenty to see and do during the day. The shorter days also allow for later starts to the morning, which is ideal on vacation.

If you’re coming in wintertime, definitely think ahead about the sites you most want to see. You’ll need to fit them in during the sunny parts of the day!

Don’t worry about not getting to see Scottish wildlife in wintertime . There’s plenty to see, even when the snow begins to fall. You’ll find a handful of wildlife spotting opportunities in this itinerary!

If you explore the Highlands outside of the winter season, you’ll have longer days and thus more time to see more sites.

Trust us, more time to see the sights Highlands is always a good thing!!

Loch Leven of Glencoe is stunning any time of day, especially at sunrise and sunset. Photo by Christa Rolls

How long to spend in the Highlands

This particular itinerary is for 8 days and mimics the same itinerary we took on our visit to the Highlands.

Of course, this is a suggested itinerary, so if there are destinations that most interest you, go with those! Any of these days can be coupled together, as long as you have a means of getting from one place to the next.

Getting to the Highlands

The two major airports to fly into are Edinburgh and Glasgow.

We flew through Edinburgh, which is why it’s on this itinerary. We also wanted to hit up some of the Harry Potter-inspired locations in Edinburgh. Feel free, however, to start your journey from Glasgow.

Rental car facilities, trains, buses, and taxis all depart from both airports to get into the city.

If you aren’t interested in seeing the city, feel free to skip on ahead to the Highlands right off the bat!

I REALLY recommend a visit to Edinburgh, though.

Getting around the Highlands

This itinerary depends on being comfortable with driving in Scotland (opposite side of the road from the United States and much of the rest of Europe). Keep this in mind as you prepare for your trip.

Car rental companies are at both major airports as well as directly in the city. However, driving in the city (especially if you aren’t used to driving on the other side of the road) can be a little stressful!

Plan out your driving route ahead of time to alleviate that stress.

There are options to explore the highlands with tour guides. Harry Potter lovers can board the Hogwarts express for a day . In a day you can even sample the Highlands or visit the Cairngorms . But nothing quite beats spending time to explore this beautiful region.

Prepare with the right Gear

In Scotland, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing” — Sir Ranulph Fiennes

There are a handful of items that comfortably got us through the chilly winter weather in Scotland.

Itinerary Layout 

Feel free to skip ahead to the sections that most interest you!

Click the Google Maps image to see all the sites listed in this itinerary.

Visit Scotland Day 1: Explore Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a beautiful and historic city, emcompassing medieval buildings, lush garden parks, and picturesque cobblestone streets. It’s Scotland’s capital, and also home to Edinburgh Castle and other important historical monuments.

For Harry Potter Lovers

Edinburgh is a   Harry Potter lover’s dream . JK Rowling spent some of her time in Edinburgh when she wrote some of the series’ books! Our Scotland visit wouldn’t have been complete without these things!

Black Medicine coffee  shop and  The Elephant House  coffee shop are two places where Rowling is said to have spent time writing. They’ve also got  wonderful  coffee and cakes!

Greyfriars Kirkyard has tombstones with inspired names, including Riddel and McGonagall.  Remember that this is a cemetery, so please be respectful of the grounds and keep your voice level down. 

Coffee and cakes at The Elephant House in Edinburgh, one of the locations presumed to be where JK Rowling wrote some of the Harry Potter Series. Photo by Nathan Rolls

Walk and Shop the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile  has loads of tourist shops with everything Scottish inspired you could imagine, from wool scarves and hats to butter cookies. The Royal Mile is so named because it is the main road that leads up to the  Edinburgh Castle .

Tour the grounds of Edinburgh Castle

Tour the Castle grounds for a spectacular view of the city and to see some beautifully done war memorials. Head inside to see the crown jewels and Scotland’s National War Museum . Events are held at and around the Castle throughout the year, so  check their webpage for upcoming events  during your visit!

Walk Calton Hill at Sunset

Calton Hill  is the perfect way to get a stunning view of the city,  especially at sunset . There are a handful of monuments lining the pathway leading to the top, which are a good distraction from the steep hill you need to climb to reach the end!

Eat at The Outsider for dinner

We enjoyed an incredible dinner, with a jovial and warm atmosphere, at  The Outsider . If you’re going on a weekend, be sure to make reservations as they’ll fill up quickly!

Enjoy drinks and live music at Sandy Bell’s

After dinner, make your way over to  Sandy Bell’s , a small, local pub with that small, local feel despite it becoming more and more popular. They have live, traditional Scottish music every night, but they fill up quickly!

Tip : If you’re visiting Edinburgh around the Christmas season, the  Edinburgh Christmas Market  will be open from mid-November into the New Year. You’ll find all sorts of delicious food and local artisans selling handmade artworks at the numerous fair stalls.

Gate to Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, a cemetery established in the 1500s, with beautiful monuments and a nice view of the city. Photo by Christa Rolls

Stay at the Motel One Princes Street in Edinburgh

We recommend staying the  Motel One Princes Street in New Town Edinburgh. It’s close to many of the main attractions, but not so much that you’ll be awake all night with music and boisterous noise.

The parking garage for the Motel One Princes Street is about a  five minute walk away  at the  Q Park Omni (Greenside Row, Edinburgh EH1 3AN, UK). Get the discount voucher from the front desk of the hotel to get 50% off the ticket price.

Visit Scotland Day 2: Birdwatch at Visit Loch Leven Nature Reserve, Explore Aviemore

Get coffee and breakfast at the milkman.

Head to  The Milkman  for your morning brew, whether that be an espresso, a luscious cappuccino, or a hot chocolate, and a freshly baked pastry. The croissants are flaky and delicious!! This intimate cafe is a wonderful place to start the day.

Birdwatch and Stroll the Loch Leven Nature Reserve

On the way to the Cairngorm Mountains, stop at the Loch Leven Nature Reserve , a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) site.

Loch Leven is a wonderful place to birdwatch. The Reserve has wooded walks with blinds behind bird feeders, where you spot tits, robins, red squirrels, and various other wildlife in hiding. The marsh boardwalk (£5 for adults, £1 for children) offers great views of waterfowl and birds of prey.

Have a panini and coffee at the Loch Leven Reserve Café before heading north to the Cairngorm Mountains.

READ NEXT | Best Birdwatching Destinations in Europe!

Loch Leven Nature Reserve is a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) site with an interpretive center, cafe, and trails heading out along the Loch shores. Photo by Christa Rolls

Base yourself in Aviemore to explore the Cairngorm Mountains

Aviemore is an awesome place to experience what the Cairngorm Mountains have to offer because of their proximity to some of the best sites in the Cairngorms.

Aviemore is a small town, so it’s not exactly bumping at night, but there’s still some great places to cap off your evening. The Cairngorm Hotel especially has live music starting around 10 on most nights, allowing you to sit in a relaxed setting over a nice local beer or whisky.

Not many itineraries for a visit to Scotland include the Cairngorms – definitely add it to the list of must-dos!

Stay at the Cairngorm Hotel

We recommend staying at the Cairngorm Hotel , which has great service and is right in the center of the town. This way, you can enjoy dinner and drinks without worrying about driving anywhere afterward.

Eat at The Winking Owl for dinner

We ate at a couple of the local joints in town, and The Winking Owl  is perfect for a warm, traditional atmosphere. Right in the center of Aviemore, it has a whole suite of traditional Scottish fare on the menu.

Be sure to make reservations if you’re going on the weekend, especially at the Winking Owl!

READ NEXT | Top Must-Do Activities in the Cairngorm Mountains

Visit Scotland Day 3: See Cairngorm’s Reindeer and Hike Cairngorm Mountain

Grab coffee and a pastry at asher’s bakery.

Asher’s Bakery is a small café with meat pies and sweet pastries for an early, on-the-go breakfast. Grab an extra, fresh-baked meat pie for a late-morning snack – you’ll need it along with plenty of water!

A reindeer forages on grass and moss at the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre in the Cairngorm Mountains, Scotland. Photo by Christa Rolls

Visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

A visit to the  Cairngorm Reindeer Centre  is a fun way to explore the mountains.

Take the guided hill tour, a 15-20 minute walk up into the hills where the only free-roaming herd of reindeer in the UK take residence. Arrive about 30 minutes before their opening time in order to secure a spot on their hill tour as they’re first come first served.

We found it incredibly relaxing hanging out on the hills watching the Reindeer forage and interact with each other.

Take a hike around Cairngorm Mountain

The road from the Reindeer Centre goes straight to Cairngorm Mountain .

Most people will head straight up the Cairngorm Mountain trail, but  we suggest heading on the trail heading southwest of the car park, following the Leth-choin creek .

Bring your binoculars and step lightly on the trail, keeping an eye and ear out for various wildlife, such as mountain hare, red grouse, ptarmigan, and capercaillie.

For a comprehensive selection on hikes and leisurely walks in the Cairngorm Mountains, check out  Cicerone’s guide to Walking in the Cairngorms !

Have dinner at the Old Bridge Inn

Down by the river in old Aviemore, the   Old Bridge Inn   offers a more gourmet spin on local specialties – don’t miss their fish of the day, caught locally!

Ptarmigans will camouflage themselves in snow patches as they begin getting their white winter plumage. Photo by Nathan Rolls

Visit Scotland Day 4: Wander Elgin Cathedral and Stroll Inverness

Eat breakfast at the coffee pot.

Take the morning easy in heading out, and stop by one of the cafes/coffee shops in town. Sunrise in winter in the Highlands typically isn’t until well after 8 AM.

The Coffee Pot is a delicious spot in Aviemore. Though it doesn’t open until 10 AM, you can take your time getting out of town.

Explore Elgin Cathedral

Elgin Cathedral is a beautiful 13th century ruin. Carvings and pictishes can be found in the stones throughout the Cathedral ruins as well as on tombstones in the graveyard. The land on which the Cathedral is located is stunning, just next to Cooper Park and the River Lossie.

Drive to Inverness and check into the Beaufort Hotel

The  Beaufort Hotel is located up the hill from the main part of the city. It’s about a 5-10 minute walk to get to the center of everything, but we enjoyed the attentive staff and most of all, being away from the main bars that play music well into the night.

Stroll around Inverness

Inverness isn’t a large city, but it’s a great jumping off point to see many incredible sites in the area.

Tour the grounds of the Inverness Castle and to get a great view of the city. From there, head down to the River Ness to walk along the tree-hewn riverside and appreciate the city’s architecture. We loved exploring the various art galleries, such as the  Castle Gallery on Castle Street .

Fun Fact: Inverness has become the starting and ending point for the   North Coast 500 , a 500 mile long-distance, epic road trip around the northern part of Scotland. If you have time on your visit to Scotland, check it out!

Eat dinner at the Mustard Seed

We highly recommend eating at the  Mustard Seed . The atmosphere is warm and fun, so see if you can get a table by the fire or on the upper level.

If you’re a coffee lover like me, don’t miss their amazing espresso martini. The top level of the restaurant offers a fun view of the bar and restaurant from above.

Enjoy some live Scottish music at Johnny Foxes

One of the things I looked into at every destination we went was where to hear  live Scottish music  – I couldn’t get enough! In Inverness,  Johnny Foxes  is one of the best places to see live traditional and modern Scottish music.

Scotland Visit Day 5: Visit Culloden Battlefield and the Clava Cairns

Start your day at the rendezvous cafe.

Start your day off right with a solid cup of coffee and breakfast at the  Rendezvous Café . They serve a no-nonsense, full Scottish breakfast as well as fresh baked scones and cakes.

Visit historic Culloden Battlefield

At  Culloden Battlefield , learn about the history of the Jacobite rebellion against the British rule, and the tragic ending for the soldiers who fought there.

At first glance, this might look only like a giant field, but really it’s so much more – the way in which the memorials are laid out and the history is retold is respectfully- and well-done.

One of the many memorial stones that line the pathways looping through the moors of Culloden Battlefield. Photo by Christa Rolls.

Take care to be respectful, as you walk on hallowed ground  – you’ll pass the memorials erected by the surviving families and clans for those who died at Culloden.

Walk the ancient Clava Cairns

After visiting and spending time at Culloden, drive down some of the back roads, meandering next to farms, historic homes, and glens. About ten minutes away, you’ll reach the  Clava Cairns , stone graves dating back thousands of years (it’s approximately, 4,000 years old!).

Entry into the paddock to see the Cairns is free – just drive up to the parking area and let yourself in through the sheep and cow-proof door.

Not only are the Cairns incredibly old, but what is almost as incredible is how well-preserved they are after so many millennia.  There are dozens are cairns around Inverness, but these are some of the easiest to see and access.

The Clava Cairns are old burial sites surrounded by stones believed to have been used to astronomical purposes. Photo by Christa Rolls

Eat Dinner at the Fig and Thistle

The  Fig & Thistle  has a beautiful selection of steaks and fish, all locally sourced. The menu is written out on a chalkboard each day, so their specialties change regularly, but you won’t be disappointed in the options.

Finish the night off with live music at Hootananny’s

Hootananny’s Bar  is a staple in Inverness. It’s also HUGE, so there is loads of space to watch live Scottish music with everyone else in town.

Visit Scotland Day 6: Step back in time at Urquhart Castle, Hike the hills of Glencoe

Stock up on pastries at the bakery.

Bidding farewell to Inverness, stop at The Bakery  on Tomnahurich Street on the way to Loch Ness. Here you’ll find some delicious coffee and baked goods, such as croissants or meat pies!

Tour Urquhart Castle

Enjoy the drive down to  Urquhart Castle   along Loch Ness, the largest body of fresh water in the United Kingdom.

You’ll see the pull-off for the Castle before you really see the castle itself. Views from all over the grounds are stunning, especially looking out toward Loch Ness, and you really get a feeling for how huge this Castle was! Its location on the hill above Loch Ness makes it obvious why it was such a sought after location many centuries ago.

Walk the trails of Glencoe

We LOVED seeing beautiful Glencoe during our Scotland visit. Seriously, the scenery here is just stunning. Take some time to appreciate the quiet and surrounding beauty for a couple days.

Glencoe itself is a small, quiet town, especially in wintertime. But it makes a great jumping off point to seeing some stunning locations in the area.

The seemingly endless hills all shades of green, orange, purple, and brown are just waiting to be explored, and there are a ton of different hiking trails to explore all along the Glencoe area.

Even if you aren’t feeling up to hiking, simply driving around this area is totally worth it any time of day. Everything is illuminated in that incredible golden light at sunrise and sunset.

The hills are stunning and you’ll spot numerous waterfalls along the way. Take the opportunity to get off at some of the car pull-off areas to hike around and explore, especially at the Three Sisters   car park, where you can get a wonderful view of the  Three Sisters of Glencoe .

View from the Three Sisters Car Park, looking west along the Glencoe road. Hidden Valley and its waterfalls are off to the left. Photo by Christa Rolls

Just a little further down the road is Glen Etive, another stunning and scenic site.

Keep an eye out for mountain hare, red deer, red grouse, and other wildlife . Herds of red deer will walk through the hills here, so be sure to be quiet as you walk the road and trails because you can actually get within a good viewing distance as long as you aren’t super loud.

Stay at the Glencoe Inn

During our particular trip, we got a  Christmas package at the Glencoe Inn . They fed and housed us for three nights  – although the package is pricey, we felt it was incredibly worth it.

Because we were visiting on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, we knew many places wouldn’t be open for lunches, dinners, etc. and felt the convenience of having someone cook for us the whole time would answer our problem.

Check out availability for The Glencoe Inn and other possible hotel options in Glencoe below:

Visit Scotland Day 7: See the Jacobite train at Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monument, Take a scenic drive to Mallaig

Visit the glenfinnan viaduct.

The  Glenfinnan Viaduct is even more famous because the Harry Potter train scenes were filmed at this location. Remember that viaduct scene? And thinking it was all CGI?? It wasn’t.

You can even see the “Harry Potter train”, or the  Jacobite Train   as it’s called, go across the viaduct at a certain time in the morning.  The train will pass over the viaduct around 10:45 AM and again at around 3:00 PM – be sure to arrive at least thirty minutes before the train is set to pass over, as  it takes time to walk from the parking area to the viaduct!

Check the website for updated train schedules and to make sure the train is running.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct and surrounding hills are illuminated by the morning sun. A trail runs right under the Viaduct to allow visitors a better view of the surrounding area from the top of a nearby hill. Photo by Christa Rolls

Visit the Glenfinnan Monument

After you’ve seen the Jacobite and hiked the viaduct trail, walk over to the  Glenfinnan Monument .

This is the location where the Jacobite uprising first began, when “Bonnie Prince Charlie” erected his flag to let it be known that he intended to take Scotland back from the British.

Keep an eye out for birds of prey all along the roads and in the moors hunting for small mammals . Even in wintertime there are plenty of birds to be seen!

Drive the scenic route to Mallaig

As you go along the coast to  Mallaig , you might even see seals near some of the more remote shores, as seals will give birth to their pups until December.

Mallaig is quiet in wintertime, and if you aren’t going to Skye then there isn’t much to do in the town itself. The scenery on the drive up is worth it, however!

Get some tasty Fish and Chips for lunch

Jaffy’s Fish and Chips  is known for its namesake fish and chips. Situated by the water, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some hot food on a cool day.

End the day with a whisky at the Clachaig Inn

Head on back for a relaxing evening by the fire, or head over to  Clachaig Inn  for some live music and even a whisky tasting.

View from famous Glenfinnan Monument, looking out to the hills along Loch Shiel. Photo by Christa Rolls

Visit Scotland Day 8: Walk Trossachs National Park before departing Scotland

Stop off at trossachs national park for a scenic walk.

Given you have time to explore on your last day, we suggest heading south to the  Trossachs National Park  and  Loch Lomond  for more sightseeing and hiking.

Ben Lomond, one of the tallest mountains in the Park, has incredible trails leading up to the highest points for wonderful views of the area. It’s also a great place to bird watching any time of year, so bring your binoculars and keep an eye out!

Get a good handle on the various hikes and walks in the region with Cicerone’s guide to Walking Loch Lomond and the Trossachs .

Phew! Look at everything you can see in the Highlands in just a little over a week!! While this list of places doesn’t cover every possible opportunity in Scotland, we feel it’s great for those who want to add some different components into their visit to Scotland as well as enjoy the outdoors.

We hope you enjoy every minute of your Scotland tour!

Let us know your favorite places on our visit Scotland itinerary, and send us a message or comment below if you have questions!

Happy birding and traveling!

Christa and Nathan

About the Author: Christa

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20 tips to visit scotland in winter.

So, you decided to visit the Scottish Highlands in winter and I bet you wonder what it’s like to travel around Scotland during this season. How cold is it? Will there be snow? Are roads likely to be blocked? And what should you wear? This post contains everything you need to know about planning a trip to Scotland during the winter months along with my 20 best tips for making your winter holiday in Scotland a memorable experience!

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Travelling to Scotland in winter is absolutely doable and contrary to popular belief, really worth it! Visiting Scotland during the offseason has a lot of benefits and there are tons of things to do during the coldest (but also the cosiest) time of the year. 

In this post, you will find a list of my top 20 travel tips for winter, from things to consider when you put your itinerary together, my favourite activities and things to do, and tons of practical advice regarding temperatures, weather and packing.

Table of Contents

Scotland in Winter FAQ

First, let’s go through some of the basics:

When is winter in Scotland? Winter in Scotland lasts roughly from December to February, however, it can already be quite cold or even snow in November, and sometimes still in March. In 2018, the storm nicknamed “Beast from the East” brought a lot of snow to Scotland at the beginning of March. It really is a long winter season!

Is it worth travelling to Scotland in winter? Absolutely! There are so many reasons why travelling to Scotland in the offseason is a good idea – it’s cheaper, less crowded and the snow-capped peaks of the Highlands are breathtaking. If you’re not convinced, read a more detailed post about why I think you should travel to Scotland in autumn and winter here !

You might also like: 10 Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Scotland

How cold is Scotland in winter?  If you compare Scotland to some Central European countries like Austria or Germany, it really is not that cold in the winter. The average winter temperatures in Scotland are somewhere between 0 and 10 degrees C (50 F). On really cold days the thermometer can drop to about -5 C (23 F) or slightly below, but that kind of iciness rarely sticks around for too long. What makes the winters in Scotland feel cold, however, is the wind – always consider windchill which can make it feel significantly colder than it actually is!

What is the weather like in winter? When travelling to Scotland always remember one thing: it is almost impossible to predict the weather. The different regions in the Scottish Highlands and Islands are influenced by micro-climates, which means it could be snowing in one place and 20 kilometres down the road it’s beautiful sunshine. Anything is possible really, but expect cool and crisp weather and potentially rain, snowfall and ice.

Will there be snow in Scotland?  Chances are high that you will see snow when you visit Scotland in the winter – although it will most likely stick to the peaks in the Highlands. Unless a storm is bringing a lot of snow, the valleys in the mountains, the roads leading through them and the coastal roads are usually snow-free and are gritted to avoid road closures.

However, things happen and you should prepare for potential changes of plan. Here are two examples: Last year I did a road trip to Fort William on the coldest weekend of the winter, and there was absolutely no snow on the roads we were taking. A few months later during the “Beast from the East” some roads had to be closed because the gritter trucks could not keep up with the weather. My tips below will help you to find a way to deal with situations like that!

Can you see the northern lights in Scotland? It is theoretically possible to see the northern lights in Scotland. However, due to the typical Scottish weather conditions (overcast skies), sightings are a lot less common than in countries further north. You’ll find some tips for seeing the northern lights below!

When does it get dark in winter? The hardest thing about Scottish winters is arguably not the weather or the cold, but rather the darkness – at least according to many of my friends who moved here from further south. The shortest day of the year lasts from about 8.45 am to 3.30 pm, but the average length of winter days in Scotland is about 8 am to 4.30 pm. That gives you around 8.5 hours of daylight to play with.

What to wear in Scotland in Winter?  Because of the considerate windchill and potential for any kind of weather at any point of your Scotland trip, it is important to pack wisely. I have included a few of my top tips for what to wear in Scotland in winter in my tips below, but you should also have a look at my packing list to help you pack the right things.

20 top tips for Scotland in Winter

Planning your winter itinerary, shorten driving distances.

Since the days are shorter in the winter you must consider that when planning your route. My classic 8-day itinerary , for example, is made in mind with long summer days, so if you follow it during the winter, you might have to leave out some stops or do some of the driving in the dark.

To be perfectly honest, I actually recommend cutting your itinerary short and minimise your mileage. Driving in the dark is not fun – especially not when on narrow winding roads when it’s cold or potentially snowing. To get the most out of your day, get up and hit the road early. Remember, you only have about 6-8 hours of daylight in winter!

Plan a smart schedule

It seems like a no-brainer: schedule activities that require daylight, like guided tours, hikes or photo walks, for the middle of the day and schedule activities that are independent of daylight or the weather towards the end of the day. It gets dark early in winter, but you won’t mind if you keep activities like whisky distilleries or museums for the late afternoon.

You might also like: Tips for bad weather photography in Scotland

The best winter accommodation in Scotland

The best accommodation for a winter getaway in Scotland, in my opinion, always has one of the following options: a sauna, an (outdoor) hot tub or a fireplace – ideally all three. It’s còsagach , you’re after – the Gaelic word describing the feeling of being warm, cosy, and sheltered. There is nothing quite like a crackling fire, a comfy couch and a dram of your favourite whisky in your hand to end a perfect day on the road in wintery Scotland!

Looking for unique experiences?  Check out my Favourite  Unique Places to Stay in Scotland  – from hotels to B&Bs!

Check your cancellation policies

When you book accommodation, a rental car or activities for your trip to Scotland in the winter, make sure to check your cancellation policies. In the rare occasion of a snowstorm hitting the country, you might want to reconsider driving yourself; or if you have to change your itinerary due to road closures or ferry cancellations, you’ll be glad if you booked accommodation with a flexible cancellation policy!

Many activities in Scotland run regardless of the weather (refer back to my packing tips for a rainy day), but some might get cancelled in strong winds or snow conditions. Again, it is unlikely that the weather will impact your trip to such an extreme extent, but it’s best to come prepared.

Check year-round opening times

Find out about attractions that are open year-round. Many tours or activities in the Scottish Highlands and islands only run throughout the busy summer months. Even some castles and museums are closed over the winter, so it is crucial to check opening times before planning your itinerary. 

Don’t miss out on these  Edinburgh museums, galleries and monuments  off the beaten path!

Map out cosy rural pubs and cafes

Ever since I’m travelling around  Scotland as a vegan , I spend even more time researching and saving restaurants, pubs and cafes to my Google Maps. In winter, this is particularly important, whether you have dietary requirements or not. Some places close for the cold season, while others open especially for the festive season – avoid disappointment by checking opening times in advance. When the weather is bad, turn your road trip into a cosy pub or cafe crawl through the Scottish Highlands.

Driving in winter

Check forecasts.

I know it sounds redundant to check forecasts considering how hard it is to predict the weather in Scottish winters. Long-term predictions rarely hold up, but forecasts for the next or the same day are usually pretty accurate. It is important to look out for weather warnings on the days you are travelling and check the Met Office for any signs of extreme weather coming up. When a storm is on the way, the Met Office may declare orange or red weather warnings and advise people not to travel unless it is absolutely necessary.

This is particularly important if you have booked a ferry crossing as these are often cancelled or delayed during adverse weather. The ferry operators Calmac and Northlink are very quick in updating their schedules. The easiest thing to do is to follow them on Twitter and keep an eye out for your specific crossing.

If the weather is really bad, gritters are crisscrossing the country to make the roads fit for traffic again. You can follow live updates of the gritters online – they have names like “Gritty Gritty Bang Bang” and “Sir Salter Scott”. When life gives you lemons…

Know how to drive in bad weather

Here is the thing: driving in Scotland in winter is not hard (or any harder than in the summer) – if you know how to drive safely in winter conditions (lots of darkness, potentially strong winds or snow on the road). If you know you are not confident enough to drive a manual car through bad weather, maybe a road trip in the middle of winter is not the best idea. If you don’t drive a lot – and I’m the first to take my own advice here – reduce your daily itinerary and avoid stressing out over driving too much.

If you’re not sure you’re fit for Scottish winter roads, check out my driving tips , or these bad weather driving tips by Transport Scotland.

Don’t want to drive yourself? There are many guided tours from Glasgow and from Edinburgh (one day to multiple days), that run throughout the winter months!

Packing for winter trips to Scotland

Pack layers & be prepared for anything.

People often ask what to wear in Scotland in winter – you might be one of them. The thing is, the weather is really unpredictable. It could be sunny, snowing or raining, ice-cold, windy or mild – sometimes all in one day. The most important rule for packing for Scotland is to pack layers, particularly a warm and insulating layer for the colder days and a high-quality waterproof jacket for wet days.  I like throwing in a pair of waterproof trousers too, whether it is to go hiking regardless of the weather or simply to wander to the pub down the road from your B&B. Finally, a waterproof daypack can keep your things dry during a sudden downpour.

For more specific advice, check out my packing list which also contains tips for winter travel in Scotland specifically. And if you plan to go mountaineering, check out this list of essential hiking gear for winter .

Pack a thermos flask

In winter, I never track without my little thermos flask . I fill it with my favourite tea in the morning and whenever I feel like a pick me up, I will stop, breathe in the crisp countryside air and sip on a cup of steaming tea from my flask. For the really cold days (and when I’m not driving) I also bring my hipflask – nothing warms like a dram of whisky.

Pack waterproof shoes with good grip

While I’m not a winter hiker, I always bring my hiking boots on winter road trips through Scotland. When it’s cold outside – whether it’s wet, muddy, snowy or icy – you need to wear warm, waterproof boots with a good grip. I swear by my Zamberlan boots , but I also recently got some vegan lace-up boots (in a Timberland style) which are a perfect compromise for light walks and city trips.

Don’t forget your sun lotion

I’m not even joking! Especially if there is snow, the sun can burn your skin even as far north as Scotland. I prefer applying a bit of sun lotion when I go outdoors in Scotland, even in the winter.

Things to do in Winter

Go stargazing.

There are several dark sky discovery spots all over Scotland – you can find them all here . These sites are always away from local light pollution, have a good view of the sky and are easily accessible, usually also for wheelchair users, and always free. At “Orion” sites, you can see at least the seven stars of the Orion star constellation, while at “Milkyway” sites you can see the milky way with the naked eye.

There are also three Dark Sky Parks in Scotland, at the Galloway Forest Park, the Isle of Coll and in the Cairngorms National Park. These are internationally recognised areas with high-quality dark skies and great visibility of the stars!

Want to stay in the middle of nowhere?  Check out  my Loch Ossian Youth Hostel review !

How to see the northern lights

Everybody loves the northern lights, but did you know that you don’t have to travel as far north as Norway or Iceland to see them dancing in the sky? Even as far south as Edinburgh, you can sometimes see the northern lights in the Scottish sky. The main issue if spotting the northern lights in Scotland is visibility – of course, the sky has to be clear in order to be able to see the lights and that can prove tricky.

It’s still a good idea to keep an eye on the aurora forecast and prepare to head out around midnight when the night is at its darkest and coldest. Chances are better when you travel north to the Highlands or Orkney!

Try snowshoeing in the Highlands

Snowshoeing is a great activity that doesn’t require a lot of skill, any prior knowledge or any more than average fitness. I’ve always wanted to try it back home in the Austrian Alps, but it took a few years of living in Scotland until I finally gave it a shot. And it was amazing – read more about my experience here !

You can rent snowshoes for £14 (half day) / £18.50 (full day) at the snowsports equipment centre at the bottom of the Nevis Range Gondola. This is only a short drive from Fort William , so very easy to include in anyone’s itinerary through the Scottish Highlands. At the top of the gondola, there are easy routes to two viewpoints from where you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.

You might also like: 14 Romantic Getaways in Scotland

Go skiing in Scotland

If you are more skilled and seek the thrill of the mountain slopes, try your hand at skiing in one of Scotland’s five ski resorts. Two of them are in the western Highlands: the Glencoe Mountain Resort   with some of the best natural terrain in Scotland, and the Nevis Range Mountain Resort  with its challenging terrain and dramatic scenery.

The three other resorts are in the Cairngorms National Park: the family- & beginner-friendly Lecht Ski Centre , the large and varied Glenshee Ski Centre and the  Cairngorm Mountain Resort , which gets the most snow and the longest season of all five resorts.

Ride the Harry Potter train

To be honest, you can’t ride the actual Harry Potter steam train aka. the Jacobite Steam Train during the winter season (it only runs from April to September)…

But you can take the regular train from Fort William to Mallaig! The views are still as magnificent – maybe even more majestic with the snow-covered mountains along the coast – and you also get to ride over the Glenfinnan Viaduct for the perfect photo!

Try winter mountaineering

The Scottish mountains are not to underestimate during the winter months. They might not be as high as other mountain chains in Europe, but the weather is unpredictable and the summits get a lot of snow and ice, even if the valleys below are fine. It is important that you only hike during the winter if you have access to crampons and an ice axe and know how to use both.

If you are keen though, there are many opportunities to join winter mountaineering courses – the Mountaineering Scotland is a reliable site to find reputable and trustworthy courses and instructors. You can also do courses at Ice Factor , the climbing centre in Kinlochleven – or try your hand at their indoor ice climbing wall.

Visit a whisky distillery or a museum

If the weather is dreich and all attempts for outdoor activities fail, visit a whisky distillery or a museum. 

You might also like: An Essential Guide to Scottish Whisky

Attend a winter festival

There are many festivals in Scotland throughout the winter months. The winter festivals are traditionally Christmas festivals including markets, special concerts and lots of festive food. They happen in Oban, Inverness, Perth, Stirling and a few other places. However, there are also other festivals in Scotland during the cold season, such as the biggest Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh (that’s New Year’s Eve in Scotland), Celtic Connections music festival in Glasgow or the Up Helly Aa  Viking festivals in Shetland.

Other unique Scottish holidays in winter include St Andrews Day (Nov 30) and Burns Night (Jan 25). If you visit during those dates, make sure to join a local celebration!

You might also like: The best Winter Festivals and Christmas Markets in Scotland

You see, travelling to Scotland in winter can be filled with exciting adventures and relaxing getaways – there is no reason why you should not take advantage of the cheaper flights and affordable accommodation during off season!

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25 thoughts on “ 20 Tips to visit Scotland in Winter ”

Hello, Kathi!

My partner and I are traveling to Scotland for my birthday and Valentine’s Day in 2024. We plan to take the Scottish Grand Tour railway trip to pack in as much as possible (Inverness to Edinburgh to Glasgow, to Isle of Skye back to Inverness – we have also considered going counterclockwise…which way would you recommend – either starting by going to Edinburgh or first to Isle of Skye?). Do you have any tips or thoughts on traveling Scotland via Train? Do you have thoughts on the Scottish Grand Tour in general (is this a good plan)? Then finally, do you have any Valentine’s Day itineraries handy ? Lots of questions!

Your resources have been so incredibly helpful!

Thank you and happy holidays! Grace & Wilson

Hi Grace, here are some resources for you:

My public transport guide: https://watchmesee.com/blog/scotland-by-public-transport/ Roughly your itinerary by public transport: https://watchmesee.com/blog/scotland-itinerary-by-public-transport/ A detailed itinerary guide: https://watchmesee.com/shop/best-of-scotland-itinerary-1/ – it’s designed for driving, but you can use it in combination with that blog post above. I’d probably start with Skye and then go to the cities, but there’s no right or wrong way, I’d say.

Keep in mind that you have shorter days in February, so depending on how much time you have, you may have to adjust your itinerary – otherwise you might spend a lot of time on trains in the darkness… If you need hands-on help with your trip, email me at [email protected] – I offer 1:1 travel consultation calls! Cheers, Kathi

Thank you, Kathi! I may take you up on your offer for more hands-on assistance. Will reach out if we do! Happy weekend! Grace

Super!! Get in touch anytime ☺️

Hi , Im planing road trip in December to Scotland . Day 1 Glasgow to Fort Agusta , Day 2 Fort Agusta to Portree , Day 3 Portree to Port William and Day 4 Port William to Edinburg . Please give some recommendations and ideas . Thank You !

Hi Desmond, you can purchase my Best of Scotland itinerary with all my tips and recommendations for that route here: https://watchmesee.com/shop/best-of-scotland-itinerary-1/ Mind that in winter you have a lot less day light, so you’ll have to be more picky with what stops to make in order to avoid driving in the dark too much. Usually I recommend spending at least 2 nights on Skye in order to see the highlights. Cheers, Kathi

Loved this! My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Scotland from Australia for January 2020. Do you have any recommendations on where to stay in the Highlands? Or any ideas for a quick 3-day Highlands drive? Cheers!

Hi Dani, it really depends on the places you are interested in – you could spend three days exploring Oban and Argyll or the area around Glencoe and Fort William. I would limit distances due to the short days and not try to go too far north if you start in Glasgow/Edinburgh. If you’d like more help with a concrete itinerary, check out my consultation service: https://watchmesee.com/watch-me-see-scotland-travel-consultation/ Cheers, Kathi

I love the highlands in winter! So underrated! Great tips too, especially on checking opening times. I’ve been caught out before!

I’m all in for a walk in the snow, followed by a dram, a port or red wine by the fire. There’s so much more to do but I’ll take that for starters 🙂

Yes, the sun lotion tip… That would be me… 🙂 I love the combination of cozy indoors and stunning outdoor activities in this list, as well as the fact that you point out not to forget about some practicalities that can make your life so much more comfortable!

I’d be burnt all the time if I didn’t pack at least a light sun lotion! Glad you liked the list!!

Great post and such useful tips. I can’t believe I’ve never been further north than Edinburgh but maybe this winter is the time to finally go to the Highlands!

The idea of sitting in a cozy Scottish pub on a cold day sounds lovely! It would be great fun to take the train to see the scenery – I hear it’s absolutely gorgeous there. And, I’m a big fan of Christmas Markets & Festivities, so would love to see all of those!

You’d have an amazing time here in winter then. The Christmas lights are gorgeous and there is just no view like the Scottish Highlands in the snow!

I don’t think a lot of people see Scotland as a winter destination, but you proved then wrong. I got the desire to ski down the Scottish slope, finishing up with a whiskey and cozying-up at a Christmas market ;D

Yas! Do it 🙂 It’s such a great destination for winter!

Having a glass of whiskey in a Scottish Highlands cabin sounds like my perfect winter holiday 🙂 I can’t wait to make a return visit to Scotland. I’d love to see the Northern Lights and didn’t realize they were visible as far south as Edinburgh. Thanks for the great tips!

They are indeed! I’ve never seen them myself – but that’s more because I’m lazy and usually tucked into bed by the time they come out ha ha

Great post, love all the tips! I’ve been to Scotland thrice now and the last trip was in winter 🙂 There was a whole lot of snow in the highlands and we had a fantastic road trip. Scotland is beautiful in all seasons but I think my winter one was the best!

That’s so nice to hear! We had a lot of snow last year. This year there is already a bit on the mountain tops, but it’s still very pretty and autumnal right now!

What a fantastic and inspiring post – with fantastic photography as usual! Scotland is high on my list, and winter seems just like the perfect time, it’s just too bad that both my husband and I have a very demanding seasonal job in the winter. Maybe one year we’ll manage to sneak in 3-4 days to enjoy Scotland in the winter as it really seems a pearl!

Aw that’s a shame – how long is your winter season though? It can still be really wintery here in March, if that makes planning a bit easier!

Great list! I am not sure if I would go visit the Scottish Highlands in wintertime, but the Harry Potter train sounds fun and I would like to try snowshoeing sometime. Ughh but I live in Canada and it’s hard not to go somewhere warm during the winter 🙂

I get that – but depending on where you live in Canada, it will probably be warmer here too 😀 Early Spring might be a good compromise – a lot of winter perks still apply in March and April!

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12 Best Places to Visit in Scotland in Winter

February 2, 2023

I absolutely love Scotland.

I’ve visited loads of times, in all seasons, and I’ve enjoyed myself every time. So even though people reckon you shouldn’t visit Scotland in winter , I’m here to tell you that you definitely should. The weather isn’t as bad as people say, there are lots of brilliant events, many things to do , and there are plenty of great places to visit.

So in this article, I’ve brought you some of my favorites. Here are the best places to visit in Scotland in winter …

1. Arthur’s Seat

2. edinburgh castle, 3. edinburgh christmas market, 4. glasgow christmas market, 5. cairngorm sleddog center, 6. cairngorm reindeer center, 7. irn bru carnival, 8. glencoe mountain resort, 9. nevis range mountain experience, 10. glenshee ski center, 11. the shetland isles, 12. the fairy pools, final words and further reading.

A mini city-center hike over Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat is great—and it offers one of Scotland’s most famous views.

Any time of year, it’s a nice place for an easy wander, and the views are great. But in winter, if Edinburgh is coated in snow, it’s ridiculously beautiful—so if you get snow while you’re in the city, you should wander up Arthur’s Seat.

Maybe the best thing about Arthur’s Seat (if you’re a lazy traveler and you don’t like real hikes), is that it’s really easy and accessible, even in snow. The walk clocks in at 3 miles (4.75kms), the peak sits at a measly 251 meters (823 feet), and it should only take you a couple of hours at most to get to the top and back.

Compared to the tiny amount of effort you need to put in, you get brilliant views.

Arthur’s Seat is part of massive Holyrood Park, so there are lots of strolls nearby, all great for a winter walk.

• Address: The Dasses, Edinburgh, EH8 8AZ
• Entrance Fee: Free

Again, just like Arthur’s Seat, you can visit Edinburgh Castle any time of year.

But in winter, if you get snow, it looks magical—and the views from its grounds are fantastic. So I reckon winter is the best time to visit Edinburgh Castle.

Sometimes, the place hosts special winter events, including its brilliant ‘Castle of Light’ celebrations. During this period, the castle is adorned with mega-modern lighting installations, all with unique and innovative features. Imagine patterns, pictures, interactions and illuminations, and you’ve got a good idea of what you’ll get.

And on top of all that, the castle usually offers tasty winter treats as part of their Christmas Afternoon Teas.

• Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG
• Opening Hours: Typically 9:30am until 6pm, 7 days a week
• Entrance Fee: £15.50 for adults, £9.30 for kids

Another entry, another Edinburgh attraction.

Edinburgh Christmas Market is one of the best Christmas markets in the UK . Like most of them, you get lots of great stalls, selling festive food, tasty drinks, handmade crafts, and lots of other trinkets and treasures. Most of the traders at Edinburgh Christmas Market are local businesses, so it’s a nice place to invest in the local economy and see what regional people are getting up to.

But at Edinburgh Christmas Market, it’s not just market stalls. Yeah, there are plenty of them, but you also get an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, Santa’s grotto, a festive maze, and loads more fun for all the family.

And maybe best of all, iconic Edinburgh Castle looms over the market’s stands and stalls, so the views are great, and the entire event is really atmospheric and alluring.

It’s without doubt one of the best Christmas markets in the UK—so if you’re in Scotland while it’s on, you should absolutely visit.

• Address: Usually East Princes Street Gardens
• Opening Hours: Typically 10am until 10pm, 7 days a week

Glasgow Christmas Market is overshadowed by the massively-famous markets in Edinburgh. But I reckon Glasgow’s (though they might not be quite as big) are almost as fun, and definitely more friendly. Controversial.

Hugely underrated, you should definitely visit Glasgow’s Christmas markets if you prefer events that aren’t absolutely packed with endless numbers of tourists.

At Glasgow’s Christmas markets, you get two areas brimming with more than 100 different stalls. Again, you get crafts, food, drinks, local businesses, organic produce and traditional treats. And on top of all that, you get fairground rides, Santa visits, friendly faces and warm welcomes.

Even better, Glasgow is a massively underrated stop on Scotland’s tourist trail—so you can enjoy a great city while you’re lapping up all the festive fun.

• Address: Usually George Square and St. Enoch Square
• Opening Hours: Typically 10am until 8pm, 7 days a week

This place is brilliant.

The only daily-working sleddog center in the UK, it offers one of the most magical experiences Scotland has to offer. You know in the movies, when you watch someone sit in a sled, and get pulled along by dogs? Well that’s exactly what this is, but in real life.

You can enjoy these experiences any time of year, but they’re of course best in winter, if you’re lucky enough to get snow.

Aside from the rides themselves, the sleddog center also offers other action and adventure. There’s a small museum, along with chances to meet the dogs, and learning about their training and history.

This Cairngorm Sleddog Center is (unsurprisingly!) located in Cairngorms National Park, the biggest national park in the UK. It’s pretty close to Aviemore, one of the most charming towns in the region.

There are other sled dog places in Scotland, near both Inverness and Fort William. But I reckon the Cairngorm Sleddog Center is the best of them—and like I said before, the rest are only open on certain days.

• Address: Moormore Cottage, Rothiemurchus Estate, Aviemore, PH22 1QU
• Opening Hours: Book in advance for a timeslot
• Entrance Fee: Various

Also in the Cairngorms (and also close to Aviemore!), you can find the only herd of free-roaming reindeer in the UK. There are around 150 of the horned little cuties, and they’ve been wandering around the area since 1952.

To see them, the best way is to organize a tour with Cairngorm Reindeer Center, who offer accessible on-foot trips around the mountains . Because they’re free-roaming deer, it can be hard to spot them, but the center’s staff know exactly where to look. If you find them, you can feed them, pet them, and be absolutely in awe that you’re looking at wild reindeer. In winter!

Cairngorm Reindeer Center offer tours year-round, but the best time to see reindeer is of course winter—and even better, in the snow. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll absolutely love this. If you’re looking for magical, this is as good as it gets.

The center itself is pretty small and humble, but it offers other Christmas events in winter, including visits from Santa!

• Address: Reindeer House, Glenmore, Aviemore, PH22 1QU
• Opening Hours: 10am until 5pm 7 days a week, but book in advance
• Entrance Fee: Hill trip prices are usually £18.50 for adults and £13.50 for kids

Every winter, the Irn Bru Carnival descends upon Glasgow, offering the thrills and excitement of the biggest indoor funfair in Europe.

For 3 or 4 weeks in December and January, the carnival serves up hefty portions of funfair rides, inflatable play areas, food, drinks and more.

Imagine a traditional British funfair, make it bigger, put it indoors, and you’ve got Glasgow’s Irn Bru Carnival. Ridiculous fun, it’s a brilliant winter family activity, and it’s been entertaining families for over 100 years. So if you’re traveling to Scotland, join them—if you’re vacationing with little ones of any age, they’ll love it.

Just make sure you book up in advance, because it’s hugely popular, and you usually need a ticket.

• Address: Scottish Event Campus, Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW
• Opening Hours: Various, but usually early afternoon to late evening
• Entrance Fee: Usually £16 for adults, and £13 for kids

Not enough people know this—but during winter, you can ski in Scotland . And it’s way better than most people realize, with some brilliant slopes and resorts.

Glencoe Mountain Resort is probably the most famous place to do it, located (unsurprisingly) in Glencoe, and close to Fort William.

All in all, the place has 8 lifts and 20 slopes, including the longest and steepest runs in Scotland, so there’s loads of fun on offer.

If skiing isn’t your thing, Glencoe Mountain Resort also offers snowboarding, sledging, hiking , and ridiculously good views.

And if you’re visiting in summer, they also offer biking, tubing and chairlift rides. So whenever you’re in Scotland, it’s a great place to visit.

And on top of all that, there’s an on-site campsite, so you can wake up mega early right in the resort, ready to get involved in loads of action and adventure. If you don’t have your own tent, you can stay in one of the resort’s so-called ‘microlodges’.

If you want the best winter sports experiences in Scotland, I reckon Glencoe Mountain Resort is your best bet. Whatever you do, you’ll absolutely love the place.

• Address: Kingshouse, Glencoe, PH49 4HZ
• Opening Hours: Typically 8am until 8pm, 7 days a week, but check in advance

For more skiing, head to the surroundings of Ben Nevis, the loftiest peak in Scotland (clocking in at 1,345 meters / 4,413 feet, in case you’re wondering‎).

The skiing and snowboarding here don’t take you to Nevis or its peak, but you get great views of the mountain from lots of the resort’s slopes (which lie just north of Ben Nevis). Because it’s built on part of a lofty range, it’s the highest snowsports destination in Scotland.

Again, it’s pretty close to Glencoe and Fort William, and therefore pretty close to Glencoe Mountain Resort, though it’s not quite as impressive (or as well-known).

You get skiing, snowboarding, hiking, paragliding, mountain biking and loads more. Lots of people just come here for the views, by riding the on-site mountain gondola to a 650-meter (2,133 feet) peak. There’s a nice restaurant here along with some great hiking trails.

If you just want good views without having to do any skiing or snowboarding, the Nevis Range Mountain Experience is a great choice. But no matter why you’re going, or what you decide to get up to, the whole area looks beautiful, and you’ll have loads of fun.

• Address: Torlundy, Fort William, PH33 6SQ
• Opening Hours: Typically 9:30am until 4:30pm, 7 days a week, but check in advance

Another Scottish winter entry, another ski center.

This time, we’re in the Cairngorms (again, the biggest national park in the UK). Glenshee Ski Center is located in the southern part of the park, between Braemar and Spittal of Glenshee. It’s a pretty massive place, with 22 lifts, 36 runs, and lots of great skiing, snowboarding, sledging and more.

But this isn’t the only snowsport option in the Cairngorms. The huge park is home to two more skiing centers: Cairngorm Mountain and The Lecht. For kids and beginners, the Lecht is great.

But no matter which ski center you choose, the Cairngorms are great for outdoor adventure. For pure diversity, endless space, and loads of things to do, the Cairngorms is the best place in Scotland to explore slopes and snow.

The national park has a huge number of places to ski, snowboard and hike, along with (as we’ve covered!) dogs and reindeer. It’s usually best to stay in Aviemore, which is beautiful—and pretty close to all the stuff we’ve featured in this guide.

• Address: Old Military Rd, Ballater AB35 5XU
• Opening Hours: Typically 8:30am until 5pm, 7 days a week, but check in advance

In winter, Scotland’s massively-underrated Shetland Isles have loads of things to experience and enjoy.

First of all, they’re the best place to see the northern lights in Scotland. Because the Shetland Islands are so far north (more northern than some parts of Norway, Sweden and Finland!), they offer great views of the northern lights in the right season. And that right season is winter!

Fun fact: the Shetland Islands are closer to the north pole than any other part of Britain.

But arguably even better than that, the Shetland Islands host Up Helly Aa every January, a weirdly-named celebration of Shetland’s culture, history and Viking heritage.

During this festival, lots of Shetland’s residents take part in the fun. Locals get dressed up, march, carry torches and set fires, in one of the UK’s weirdest, wackiest celebrations.

And because Shetland is so remote and quiet, being there in winter can feel really magical. If you like to explore hikes , beaches, cliffs , coasts and small villages without crowds, you’ll love the Shetland Isles in winter. And if it snows, it’s outrageously beautiful.

This is a bit of a leftfield choice, but listen up and you’ll understand.

Scottish beauty spots like the Fairy Pools (probably the most famous attraction in Skye) are ridiculously busy during summer. Yeah, these beauty spots look good in summer, and the weather’s good in summer, but you have to share the places with about 10 million other tourists.

And that can ruin the fun a little bit, especially if you’re the type of person who likes peace, serenity and solitude.

So the Fairy Pools are brilliant in winter, because you get to enjoy them with very few other people around. Just like the Shetland Isles, the Isle of Skye (and all other Scottish islands!) can be better in winter—assuming you’re going for the right reasons.

Other good winter picks on Skye for crowd-free fun include the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Glen. But on the other Scottish islands and on the mainland, there are plenty of great low-season winter options—if it’s a place that’s massively busy in summer, it’s sometimes better to visit in winter.

There they are—the 12 best places to visit in Scotland during winter.

I love them all, but my two top picks are the Cairngorm Reindeer Center, and all the winter experiences on the islands. And if you’re traveling with kids, definitely check out the markets and the Irn Bru carnival.

If you want to know anything else about traveling in Scotland during the festive period, check out our guide to Scottish winter weather , and our article on the best things to do in Scotland during winter .

Thanks for reading!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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5 Fantastic Christmas and Winter Break Ideas in Scotland

Winter in Scotland can be truly magical. The gold and red colours of autumn give way to frost-covered glens and snow-capped peaks, the chill in the air makes your cheeks glow and nose tingle, while shimmering lights of Scotland's cities beckon.

It's a season that lets you see places in a new light and offers new experiences that you just can't enjoy at any other time of year. Even planning where to stay in winter throws up some exciting and unusual options that you've probably never thought of before.

Friends walking through Glenmore Forest Park in the snow

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Port Charlotte

A Whisky Lover's Winter Break on Islay

• Best for: Fans of Islay's famous peaty malt whiskies and vibrant island culture.
• Getting there: Islay is most easily accessed from the port of Kennacraig by ferry. 

Things to see and do

With nine distilleries to visit, you'll no doubt find a favourite peaty dram to warm your cockles on Islay. You could visit Bowmore Distillery, situated in the heart of the village of the same name, or get up close to the stills of Lagavulin. Islay also boasts some lovely beaches, perfect for a winter stroll.

Unwind in a cosy fire-lit pub where you might hear some live traditional music. If you visit during November,  experience the Islay Sessions , a small winter festival featuring incredible folk musicians.

Treat yourself to some fine Islay produce, including tasty fresh seafood. At the restaurant in the Port Charlotte Hotel, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal in elegant surroundings, or tuck into a bar supper in the relaxed atmosphere of the bar and conservatory.

The island offers a great range of places to stay, from traditional hotels to luxury eco-lodges with saunas and hot tubs.

Find accommodation on Islay

Queen's Park, Glasgow

A weekend of arts & culture in Glasgow

• Best for: Anyone who enjoys listening to live music, exploring museums and soaking up a vibrant city atmosphere.
• Getting there: Glasgow is served by three international airports with regular flights to cities in the UK and Europe. It's also very well served by train and bus routes.

Even in the dreariest of winter months, this dynamic city really shines. Explore the handsome city centre and admire Glasgow's striking architecture, such as The Lighthouse or the beautiful Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum. Take a stroll and discover the area's quirky shops, cool bars and restaurants. In January,  discover the world-famous Celtic Connections , celebrating traditional, folk and roots music.

Glasgow's dining scene is thriving. Experience a Glasgow institution and book a table at the Ubiquitous Chip, or opt for one of the trendy restaurants in the Finnieston area of the city.

From smart boutique hotels to sleek serviced apartments, Glasgow has a huge range of places to stay.

Browse Glasgow accommodation

Covesea Lighthouse on the Moray Coast Trail

A getaway exploring the Moray coastline

• Best for: Those who want to enjoy a scenic coastal break and see amazing night time wonders.
• Getting there: From Inverness, it's easy to drive to Moray. 

The Highland region of Moray Speyside is perfect for a quiet winter escape filled with bracing coastal walks along beaches and paths. Explore charming historic fishing villages, take walks along unspoilt stretches of sand and try to spot the resident dolphins frolicking close to the shore. Get a real flavour of Speyside by following the River Spey to one of the region's whisky distilleries. If you're lucky enough to get clear night skies and an aurora forecast, head to Lossiemouth East Beach or Bow Fiddle Rock at Portknockie, two places where the Northern Lights have been spotted at in recent years.

The coastline boasts some fine traditional pubs at the likes of Findhorn, or dine at The Salt Cellar in Lossiemouth. You could also choose the cheery Mosset Tavern in Forres.

Browse Moray accommodation

Find out more

The Torridon, a luxury estate retreat in Wester Ross

An active winter break to the Torridon

• Best for: Those with a passion for the great outdoors (who also like the finer things in life)!
• Getting there: The Torridon is accessible by road. From Inverness, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 mins. 

The Torridon offers activities year-round. In the winter months, there's a programme of winter activities including archery, sea kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, and guided walks and mountain bike rides. The surrounding landscape is truly wild and rugged, making for some very exhilarating hiking.

The Torridon is a slice of foodie heaven, with Bo & Muc using seasonal and fresh produce and the 1887 Restaurant serving fine, award-winning cuisine with exquisitely matched wines. And should the weather conditions affect the activities in the outdoors, then why not relax in a comfy armchair and enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, complete with a warming pot of The Torridon's signature blend?

Combine your passion for the natural environment with a good dollop of winter indulgence on a break to  The Torridon , a luxury estate retreat in the beautiful north west Highlands. 

Kirroughtree Forest

© VisitScotland / David N Anderson

Dark Skies in Ayrshire, Dumfries & Galloway

• Best for: Those looking to experience unforgettable dark skies and traditional Scottish culture.
• Getting there: Travelling by car to either Ayrshire or Dumfries & Galloway is straightforward. You can also travel by train from Glasgow to Dumfries or Edinburgh to Lockerbie.

A winter break in Scotland is a fantastic time to soak up the splendour of the night sky. One of the best places to go stargazing in Scotland is the Galloway Forest Park in south west Scotland. Another superb location for stargazing is the town of Moffat in Dumfries & Galloway as it’s a designated Dark Sky Town.

Robert Burns was born in Ayrshire and every year you’ll find events celebrating his life throughout the month of January. 

Tuck into tasty local produce at eateries including Loch Arthur Farm Shop Café near Dumfries, the Kirkmichael Arms near Maybole and The Coo Shed near Alloway.

Choose from hotels, B&Bs, self-catering cottages and much more across both regions.

Find accommodation in Ayrshire & Arran  or  take a look at Dumfries & Galloway accommodation

Dark Sky Parks & Stargazing in Scotland

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Scotland in winter: The best sights to see this season

During the colder months, the mountains, valleys, forests and coastline of Scotland take on an altogether different look and feel. Here are six of the best places to soak up the atmosphere

Scotland in winter has its own special kind of beauty, which can invariably be enjoyed in peace and solitude after the summer tourists have departed. And while many of the main visitor attractions are closed, the best places to experience the magic and wonder of the season can usually be found far off the beaten track.

Words by louise hoffman.

So, if you prefer your landscapes and landmarks to be quiet, enigmatic, hung with brooding cloud or carpeted in autumn leaves, or white snow these are some of the most atmospheric spots to experience Scotland in winter.

The best places to experiences Scotland in winter

Ruthven barracks , near kingussie.

Scotland in winter wouldn’t be complete without a spooky story or two and ghost hunters will enjoy a trip to Ruthven Barracks near Kingussie, in the Cairngorms National Park. It was once the site of a 13th-century castle, which was associated with the infamous ‘Wolf of Badenoch’, Alexander Stewart, 1st Earl of Buchan. He’s known for destroying Elgin Cathedral and much of the surrounding town in 1390 after falling out with the Bishop. It’s he you may spot playing chess against a devilish opponent – the re-enactment of a game that is said to have ended with the deaths of every soul in the castle. The ruin you see today is of the 18th-century barracks built on the site by the government following the Jacobite uprising. Attacked several times, it was eventually set alight in 1746 after the Battle of Culloden .

The Hermitage,  Dunkeld, Perthshire

Once an 18th-century pleasure ground for the Dukes of Atholl, this enchanting forest is one of the best places to see Scotland in winter, when the leaves turn to copper, the red squirrels forage and salmon leap up the breathtaking Black Linn Falls on the River Braan. Breathe in the seasonal scent of pine needles as you wander among the soaring Douglas firs, following a 1.5-mile woodland trail along the river. Highlights of the route include the mossy Hermitage Bridge, the grotto-like Ossian’s Cave, and a romantic folly known as Ossian’s Hall, which is nestled among the trees above the falls. If you fancy a longer walk, you could continue on to the Rumbling Bridge, high up over the gorge where the waters of the Braan are at their most ferocious, and the abandoned village of Tomgarrow, which once housed local slate quarry workers.  

Dun Dornaigil , near Hope, Sutherland

Completely isolated in the atmospheric hills of the Northern Highlands, on a bend of the Strathmore River near the majestic Ben Hope, are the remains of an ancient fortification or roundhouse known as a ‘broch’.

Such structures are only found in Scotland, and this is a particularly impressive one. Much still remains of the 2,300-year-old building – the most intact part of the exterior wall rises to a height of seven metres and the large triangular stone lintel above the entrance is still in place.

Getting to Dun Dornaigil is no mean feat. The road from the settlement of Hope, approximately 10 miles north, is particularly narrow and uneven (best avoided in bad weather) – but it’s certainly worth the effort to experience this enigmatic Iron Age site.

Eilean Donan ,   Dornie, Kyle of Lochalsh

Few sights in Scotland elicit quite the same level of awe and appreciation as Eilean Donan , the medieval castle that sits on an island at the point where three lochs meet and is accessed by its own bridge. For many, Eilean Donan is familiar as the castle in the Highlander film, or for its turn in the James Bond film, The World is Not Enough . But it is its location, just a few miles from the bridge that takes you over to the Isle of Skye, that ensures it is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. It certainly epitomises that chocolate-box view of Scotland, of centuries-old castles that have been preserved in time, except what you see today is largely the vision of its Edwardian owner who had the ruins of the 13th-century castle fully restored.

Still, don’t let that take away the magic. Eilean Donan is open year round and is a very atmospheric castle to visit in all seasons, but perhaps even more so in winter when she wears a cloak of snow and ice and is far quieter than normal. Her winter allure hasn’t gone entirely unnoticed though – the castle is a popular spot for winter weddings so be sure to check opening times before you set off.

Kildalton Cross , Islay

Standing in the graveyard of the now-ruined Kildalton Old Parish Church on Islay, the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, is the Kildalton Cross. Remarkably, this early Christian high cross dates from the 8th century, and is one of the finest examples of its kind in Scotland, being beautifully carved with knotwork and biblical scenes.

With its spiritual significance, and Islay’s wild landscape beyond the low stone wall of the churchyard, this is a truly special site, especially at sunrise, sunset, under starry skies, or – if you’re really lucky – during a seasonal appearance of the Aurora Borealis.

Also nearby are three of Islay’s renowned whisky distilleries – Ardbeg, Laphroaig, and Lagavulin (see page 40). These are open for most of the winter and are well worth a visit, perhaps to purchase a little something to warm your cockles after a day out exploring.  

Rannoch Moor,   Highland Perthshire

On a crisp, sunny winter’s day, there are few sights more mesmerising than the bleak, snow-capped peaks and beautiful wilderness of Rannoch Moor; while in hazy, muted light or under a blanket of cloud it can take on an almost ethereal appearance.

This 50-square-mile area is made up of boggy moorland, rivers, lochs, boulders and mountains, which ends on arrival in Glencoe where you are greeted by such sights as Buchaille Etive Mor (pictured). The region also supports an array of wildlife including red deer – herds of which can often be seen roaming the lower ground (and sometimes crossing the road) in winter.

Perfect for peaceful contemplation, take a low-level walking route through this varied terrain or simply admire it from the warmth of your car. You can even take a train journey through 23 miles of it on the West Highland Railway.

While touring the area, Outlander fans may like to visit the village of Kinloch Rannoch, a key film location at the very beginning of the series when Claire enters a stone circle and travels back in time.  

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SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Published six times a year, every issue of Scotland  showcases its stunning landscapes and natural  beauty, and delves deep into Scottish history. From mysterious clans and famous Scots (both past and present), to the hidden histories of the country’s greatest castles and houses, Scotland ‘s pages brim with the soul and secrets of the country. Scotland magazine captures the spirit of this wild and wonderful nation, explores its history and heritage and recommends great places to visit, so you feel at home here, wherever you are in the world.

The Best Winter Activities in Scotland

Winter in Scotland is an amazing time, especially if you love exploring the great outdoors. There’s something magical about the country when winter visits, and there are more things to do in the off-season than you might expect.

In this article, I’ll show you the top activities to enjoy in Scotland between November and March, whether you want to see wildlife, go on an invigorating walk, or take part in exciting sports, along with a couple of other winter activities that just might surprise you.

Wildlife Watching in the Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are stunning at all times of the year but there’s certainly something magical about the region in winter when the skies are dark and brooding and there’s a brilliant white layer of snow across the mountains.

You might think that wildlife watching in winter is pointless as animals curl up in a nest to hibernate, but the fact is that lots of mammals and birds are just as active in winter as in summer, and in fact, many are easier to spot when the temperature falls.

Rodents are the largest animal group to hibernate as their food sources are scarce in winter and they’d need large fat reserves to stay warm if they were rummaging around in the depths of winter, so instead they snuggle up and slow down their heart rate to burn as few calories as possible.

Larger animals are much better suited to Scotland’s winter climate as they can roam great distances in search of food, and due to the lack of foliage, they’re also easy to see as they descend from the cold high-altitude mountain peaks to the warmer low-level glens.

The best-known and arguably the most popular Scottish wild animals are red squirrels and red deer, both of which are found throughout the Highlands. Red squirrels are sadly in decline in large parts of Britain but Scotland has several strongholds where they’re flourishing, notably Perthshire, Aberdeenshire, and the Trossachs.

One of the best times of year to see red squirrels is January to March which is their mating season, so if you’re in Scotland’s forests at that time of year keep looking up at the trees where you will likely see them retrieving the nuts they’ve hidden amongst the branches.

I’ve created a Complete Guide to Red Squirrels in Scotland that will tell you everything you need to know about these cute furry critters.

Red deer can also be seen throughout the Highlands but Galloway Forest Park has one of the largest populations, as does Glen Affric and the Isle of Skye.

The best time of day to see them is early morning and evening when they leave the edges of the forest to forage for food in the surrounding fields and moorland, but for the rest of the day you’ll need sharp eyes as they retreat to the safety of the trees where their coats camouflage them.

Bird watchers have a variety of species to watch including the Ptarmigan – a type of grouse – and birds of prey such as golden eagles and red kites. These birds are mostly found in the Highlands and especially in the Cairngorms, but if you head to the coast you’ll also see sea eagles – otherwise known as ‘the flying door’ due to their 8-foot wingspan.

Get Off-Road on a Fat Bike

I have to admit I’m a big fan of mountain biking in Scotland as it’s the best way to experience the different landscapes. Of course, you can always pull your boots on and go for a walk, but you’ll only see a fraction of the country compared to going on a bike ride.

The only downside to motoring along on two wheels is that in winter, the ground becomes treacherous with snow, ice, and mud, and wet rocks and deep puddles are asking for trouble if you’re not adept at reading the terrain. There is, however, a new type of mountain bike that has been designed to zoom across even the worst conditions on giant, oversized tyres that can maintain their grip no matter the weather.

Fat bikes – so-called because of their 5-inch wide tyres – were originally designed to transport locals around the snowy plains of Alaska, but they’re equally at home on sand and mud. Unlike normal mountain bikes, fat bikes have low tyre pressures of anywhere between 10-20 psi which gives them exceptional grip, but it also means the tyres act as very effective shock absorbers.

It’s this ability to cope with all terrains that has made fat biking one of the fastest-growing sports in Scotland, and you’ll no doubt see them on forest trails, beaches, and mountain ridges in all regions of the country.

Before you go skipping off to your nearest bike shop to purchase a fancy new set of fat bike tyres you should know they are not compatible with standard bikes due to their width. That means if you want to go fat biking you will need a dedicated fat bike with a specialized frame – which can be quite expensive for a good one.

Britain’s biggest mountain bike magazine MBR suggests spending at least £1,000 to get a decent fat bike with prices rising to the multiple thousands for top-level bikes.

There are even electric fat bikes with power assistance for zipping up the steepest of gradients, but be aware they’re still a very niche item so the prices are either extortionate (£5,000 and up for the top brands) or they’re cheap Chinese imitations that will likely fall to bits within a year.

Luckily, most bike hire shops in Scotland have fat bikes in stock which you can rent for around £30 per day (plus a £100+ deposit) and all reputable hire shops will include a helmet, lights and a puncture repair kit.

If you do decide to hire a fat bike, you might be wondering where to go to make use of it, but from my personal experience, I have to recommend East Lothian and the Cairngorms for fat bike tours.

East Lothian might sound like an odd choice but I’m including it as the county has some of the longest and most open golden-sand beaches in Scotland, and a fat bike is a superb way to cycle along the water’s edge for mile after uninterrupted mile.

Recommended beaches are Yellowcraig near North Berwick and the coastline south of Dunbar, both of which are stunning. East Lothian also has the bonus that the picturesque Lammermuir Hills with its many hilltop trails are located just a few miles inland.

The Cairngorms, meanwhile, are chock-a-block full of great mountain bike trails, but a personal favourite is the route from Loch Morlich to Loch an Eilean on the Rothiemurchus estate. This trail takes around 3 hours to complete and it takes in thick forest as well as the lochs, with mountain scenery that’s nothing short of gob-smacking.

If you’d like to find the best wild mountain bike trails in Scotland, I highly recommend you get this Scotland Mountain Biking book from Amazon which features routes between 4 and 180 miles in length for riders of all skill levels.

Stretch Your Legs on a Winter Walk

Summer hikes in Scotland are all well and good, but to my mind, the best time to go on a romp through Scotland is winter, especially on those (admittedly rare) days when it’s sunny.

Scotland has a temperate climate so despite what you may have heard most places outside the highest areas of the Highlands are chilly rather than freezing cold and you’ll usually find yourself walking in temperatures that range from 1 to 10 °C from November to March.

That being said, not everywhere is like that and certain regions are renowned for being icy cold, like Braemar in the Cairngorms which is officially the coldest place in Britain having plummeted to -27 °C on more than one occasion.

Still, going for a woodland walk when the ground is crisp or a countryside ramble when the fields are dusted with snow is a wonderful experience, and there’s an almost limitless number of places in Scotland that offer exceptional winter walks.

One of my favourites is the area surrounding Ben Lomond in The Trossachs which is a truly stunning region. While you could scale the summit of the mountain you’ll need to be experienced as it’s quite a hike at over 3,200 feet, but if you stick to the low-lying area that runs alongside Loch Lomond you’ll find it’s very easy-going.

Another recommended walk is The Hermitage in Perthshire which is an exceptionally pretty mixed woodland with well-maintained paths and lots of points of interest including a Victorian folly overlooking a waterfall and a bridge that crosses a high ravine.

If you visit in late autumn you’ll be able to watch salmon leaping their way up the Black Linn Falls as they swim to their spawning grounds, which is regarded as one of Scotland’s top wildlife-watching experiences.

The trees surrounding the falls are some of the tallest in Scotland and many of them are over 100 feet high, which makes a walk through The Hermitage one of the highlights of a visit to Perthshire’s ‘Big Tree Country’.

A downside to The Hermitage is that it’s quite a popular place so if you really want to get away from it all I recommend heading to the final section of The West Highland Way instead which is one of the – if not the – most picturesque walking trails in Scotland.

The route stretches 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William, but it’s the last section from Kinlochleven that’s the most scenic. From Kinlochleven, you’ll pass between steep mountains on the Great Pass, which threads its way north through lovely woodland before veering towards Glen Nevis.

It’s a spectacular walk so if you’d like to experience it I recommend purchasing the West Highland Way Guidebook from Amazon which is an invaluable resource with route maps and trail tips. Also, take a look at the video below which has lots of useful tips for completing the route.

If you do decide to go for a winter walk in the remotest areas of Scotland you must be aware that Scotland’s weather can change in an instant, and even if you set out in bright sunshine you may return in driving snow.

With that in mind, make sure you pack plenty of warm waterproof clothing in a decent backpack (see my recommended lightweight backpacks ), carry a mobile phone with a USB power pack, and keep your extremities warm with a hat and gloves.

Enjoy Scotland’s Winter Sports

Scotland is a beautiful country with a diverse range of landscapes so it’s difficult to recommend just one specific place to go for snow. However, if you’re looking for a place with a high likelihood of snow during the winter months you might want to consider visiting the Scottish Highlands.

The Highlands are known for their rugged, mountainous terrain and they often receive significant snowfall during the winter, especially at high-altitude locations like the Cairngorms which see a maximum annual snowfall of around 150 cm.

There are six outdoor ski resorts in Scotland which make the country one of the best places to go to get your fix of winter sports, but it’s the skiing (and snowboarding) that attracts most visitors between November and March. You’ll find these resorts in the Nevis Range , Glenshee , the Cairngorms, and Glencoe as well as a few Lowland ski areas like Edinburgh’s Midlothian Snow Sports Centre and Glasgow’s Ski and Snowboard Centre .

While the dry slopes are pretty good, to my mind the best places to strap your skis on are in the wilds of Scotland, with my personal favourite being the Cairngorms. Scotland’s mountains aren’t quite as good for skiing as the Alps, but you’ll still find lots of superb slopes at places like Cairngorm Mountain which has downhill runs that are steep enough to prove challenging to even the most advanced skiers.

You needn’t worry about having to make your way to the top as the Cairngorm funicular will whisk you up there in record time, but there are also ski lifts if the funicular is out of action.

The Cairngorm Mountain Centre is one of the premier snow sports destinations in the UK primarily because the mountain slopes are so good, but also due to the facilities which are pretty much unrivalled in Scotland.

In addition to the funicular (which is a popular tourist attraction in its own right), there’s also a very good restaurant at the top station along with a decent café and gift shop and there are professional guided walking tours into the surrounding mountains if you’re not in the mood for racing downhill.

Children will be kept entertained on the ever-popular tubing runs (giant inflatable rubber rings that you clamber in and go bombing downhill), and there are lots of walking trails down the mountain to the beautiful Glenmore Forest. There’s even a water sports centre 3 miles away at Loch Morlich , as well as the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre where you can go on a guided tour to see Scotland’s only herd of wild reindeer.

Other snow sports centres in the Cairngorms are The Lecht and Glenshee , both of which are smaller than the Cairngorm Mountain Centre but still highly recommended. The Lecht is notable for its snowboard fun park while Glenshee has 36 ski and snowboard runs and a highly-rated snowboard school.

The ski resorts are generally open from December through April, but I recommend visiting from the end of January to the end of February for your best chance of enjoying a thick covering of snow. You’re more or less guaranteed a good snowfall at that time of year, but I still advise checking the Snow Forecast website before making an impromptu trip.

Visit Scotland’s Winter Festivals

Nowhere does winter festivals quite like Scotland, which I guess is down to the fact that our winters are long so we have to make the most of them. In total, there are over 200 festivals staged in Scotland each year, with St. Andrews Day kicking off the winter programme on November 30th. St. Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and the festival is as much about Scottish culture and tradition as it is a celebration of St. Andrew himself.

Different regions tend to have different events on the day but they generally include whisky and haggis tastings, Scottish folk music, and ceilidh’s (traditional dancing).

Some of the best St. Andrews Day events are staged in Fife, home to the town of St. Andrews, which is believed to have been founded in the 8th century when part of the patron saint’s remains were buried there. St. Andrews is a picturesque coastal town with a huge amount of history, so it’s worth visiting at any time of the year, but on the 30th of November, it comes alive, and it has to be the ultimate place to party during the national festival.

Another good place to visit on St. Andrew’s Day lies across the Firth of Forth in East Lothian which is the birthplace of the Saltire – Scotland’s national flag – where The Saltire Festival features a range of events from a race day at Musselburgh Racecourse to farmers markets, dances, and formal dinners.

Perhaps the biggest Scottish festival in winter is New Year (also known as Hogmanay) which is a fantastic time to be in Scotland and you’ll find celebrations and festivals on the last day of December happening in every corner of the country.

In my opinion, the best of them all is the Hogmanay Festival in Edinburgh which draws more than 100,000 visitors from across the globe to take part in one of the world’s greatest New Year celebrations. The party held in Princes Street is nothing short of spectacular and it’s one of the biggest street parties in the world where live music is played with a fireworks display set against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

If you want to take part in something a bit different I recommend you get a ticket for the Hogmanay Torchlight Procession which sees The Royal Mile come alive in the glow of 20,000 torches as their bearers carry them to an outdoor party in Holyrood Park .

Another fun festival that’s held throughout Scotland in winter is Burn’s Night which is staged annually on the anniversary of the bard’s birth on the 25th of January. This event sees Scots across the country celebrate the life and works of the national poet with a night of singing, dancing, eating, drinking, and recitals of Robert Burn’s poetry.

A piper ushering in a haggis, a speech, poetry readings, and several toasts are typically the next formal events, all of which include copious amounts of whisky. It’s a wonderful event, and it’s definitely worth getting tickets if you’re in Scotland at the end of January.

See the Aurora Borealis

Who needs to pack a suitcase and travel to Iceland when you can see the spectacular light show of the Aurora Borealis right from the comfort of our very own Scotland?

The aurora, if you’re not aware, is a celestial dance of lights played out in the night sky by a very common phenomenon, but one that can only be seen when there’s hardly any light pollution. Electrically charged solar particles that enter the earth’s atmosphere and collide with gases like oxygen and nitrogen are the cause of it.

The aurora appears as shimmering bands of light that increase in intensity as the evening progresses, with flickering ribbons replaced by intense coronas within a matter of minutes. The colours are predominantly green but you’ll also see them in red, yellow, blue and violet with arcs, shooting rays, and rippling curtains appearing as the earth’s gases are lit up.

In Scotland we call these lights ‘Mirrie Dancers’ and they’re often seen in the remotest parts of the country during autumn and winter when the nights are long, cold, and clear, and there is a good amount of solar activity.

There are a few meteorological reports about solar activity online but they’re quite difficult to understand, so thankfully Aurora Watch UK has put together a great all-in-one forecast page with constantly updated data.

Two major factors that determine how well you see the aurora, which is the amount of light pollution in the area and the quality of your night vision. With regards to the latter, you can easily substitute poor eyesight with a good camera and lens on a tripod.

If you point your camera at the night sky on a long exposure—say 15 seconds—the sensor will pick up much more light than your eyes will, and you’ll capture some truly amazing photographs of the aurora.

With regard to light pollution, it’s practically impossible to see the aurora in a city so don’t bother sticking your head out the window if you’re in Glasgow or Edinburgh, but instead drive to areas of Scotland where towns are few and far between, ideally a long distance from busy roads.

The best places to go to see the aurora are dark sky parks which are regions that have virtually no human populations for fifty miles or more in any direction.

A great resource for finding dark skies is the International Dark-Sky Association website which lists the darkest regions in each country, and they list four official dark sky areas in Scotland: Moffat, Galloway Forest Park, The Isle of Coll, and Glenlivet in the Cairngorms. Other good locations for aurora-watching are: Rannoch Moor, Perthshire, Shetland and Orkney, Lewis and Harris, and Skye.

If you’d like to know more, I’ve created a complete and in-depth guide about viewing the Northern Lights in Scotland .

Go Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is a sport that is becoming more and more well-liked where riders compete in time trials on karts pulled by teams of dogs around all-terrain circuits. The sport originated from the practice of Inuit Indians who transported themselves across the snow on sleds pulled by huskies, but here in Britain, we’ve refined the concept with wheeled karts pulled by teams of mixed breeds of dogs.

The convenience of wheels over skis means the sleds can be pulled on any terrain in any weather, and dog sledding is now no longer a sport reserved for the months when there’s heavy snowfall (handy considering Scotland’s winter weather is becoming increasingly temperate).

There are several dog sledding tours and activity centres located across the Highlands, but one I recommend (due to the fact that I’ve used them) is Husky Haven , located 15 miles south of Aberdeen. I know some people are complaining that dog sledding is a cruel sport, but I’d like to acknowledge that the dogs at Husky Haven were in great condition and were well-loved by the team.

More importantly, the dogs enjoyed pulling the sled along and it was obvious they couldn’t wait to get started even while they were being harnessed up. And when they finally did get going – whoosh! We were off like a rocket with a cacophony of excited whines ahead and the whirr of speeding wheels to the rear.

Sled rides last around 2-4 hours which is more than enough time to get to grips with handling the kart as well as helping to prepare the dogs beforehand. Along the way, there’s mile after mile of beautiful scenery to enjoy during the day, as well as evening rides where it’s possible to sled along under the lights of the Aurora Borealis (what an experience that must be…).

A quick Google will bring up several dog-sled organisations, which I won’t comment on as I haven’t personally used them, but you might consider taking a quick look at the TripAdvisor reviews to read the opinions of previous visitors.

• Walk Highlands : Detailed hiking maps and route information with photos to help you get your bearings. This is an invaluable website for planning winter walks.
• Ordnance Survey has a great service where for around £25 a year you can download an unlimited number of OS maps to your mobile device. I use the app myself and I’ve lost count of the number of times it saved me when I’ve been out hiking in winter but forgot to pack a paper map.
• Traffic Scotland : Provides updated road and rail information that includes disruptions to services due to bad weather.
• Google Maps . Where would we be without Google Maps? Google Maps includes directions for travellers on foot, car and public transport.
• The Met Office is the official body of UK meteorology and in my experience their forecasts are the most accurate. A great alternative is Open Weather which has an easy-to-read layout on their website.
• SnowForecast.com is one of the best resources for finding out if snow is falling in Scotland. They have a free 6-day forecast, but if you sign up you can access their 9-day forecast.
• Outaboutscotland.com has lots of articles that include tips and advice on the best places to visit in Scotland, what to do in each region and suggestions for tourist attractions to add to your sightseeing itinerary.

You Might Also Like:

• Scotland Winter Travel Tips & Advice for Visitors
• Things to do in Scotland in Winter: The Ultimate Guide
• Scotland in January: The 10 Best Places to Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Is scotland worth visiting in winter.

Winter is a great time to visit Scotland for anyone who loves wintry landscapes and fresh snow-capped mountain peaks.

Popular snow sports locations are the Cairngorm, Nevis and Glencoe mountain ranges which offer ski slopes of various grades. Scotland’s cities have lots of festivals in winter with highlights including Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay festivals, and Glasgow’s festive lights display.

What is Scotland’s weather like in winter?

It’s impossible to predict in advance what Scotland’s weather will do in winter, but generally, you can expect 0 to 5 °C from November to March and 7-9 hours of daylight (less the further north you go).

Around half the days each month will be overcast and rainy, and between November to March you can expect 2-3 weeks of snowfall in the Lowlands and 100 days of snow in the Highlands.

Is winter the rainiest season in Scotland?

Scotland receives the highest amount of rainfall in the United Kingdom, and statistically, the rainiest month is December with an average of 200 mm of rainwater.

This changes from north to south and east to west, with the west coast traditionally being wetter than the east coast and the Highlands being wetter than the Lowlands.

Can you see the aurora borealis in Scotland in winter?

It is not usual to see the aurora borealis in Scotland in the winter unless you are far away from towns and cities. The months between September and March offer the best opportunities, as the nights are much longer than the rest of the year.

Galloway Forest Park, which is a dark-sky park and has little light pollution, is one of the best places to see the aurora. Note that the aurora can only be seen when there is strong solar activity.

Related Posts

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A Guide to the Best Castles to Visit in South Scotland

The Best Places to Photograph in Scotland

The Best Cheap Places to Visit in Scotland

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour:  The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.

Planning tip:  Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.

Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.

Local tip:  Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland  (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.

Planning tip:  It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of  St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney  with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.

Planning tip:  Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.

Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip:  Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated November 2023

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Best Places in Scotland to visit in Winter Blog

Scotland is a country to visit in all seasons. Choosing to explore in the quieter months has many advantages. Many of the best places in Scotland to visit in winter see their visitor numbers dip, giving you more space and time to explore. Accommodation prices can be more affordable too, giving the option to splurge on a luxury stay.

The big question is, of course, will the weather behave? Sure it can be unpredictable, so come prepared, and it shouldn't be a problem.  As Billy Connolly once said, "there’s no such thing as bad weather - only the wrong clothes.”

Why not join us as we look at the many benefits of visiting Scotland in the winter months.

How cold is Scotland in Winter?

In Scotland, the winter months are defined as December, January and February, with the latter two being traditionally the coldest. Despite sharing the same latitude as parts of Alaska, Canada and Russia, our winter temperatures average a balmy 5 °C (41 °F) to 7 °C (45 °F).

There can be considerable variance when in the Scottish Highlands, however. The coldest temperature ever recorded in the United Kingdom was -27.2 °C (-16.96 °F) in Braemar (1982) and in Altnaharra (1995).

Snowfall in the cities is quite unusual but is far more common in mountainous areas. One of the advantages of touring Scotland at this time of year is the sight of the mountains peaks capped in snow reflected in the shimmering lochs below.

For more information on the weather in Scotland, click here .

Winter Festivals in Scotland

Three major festivals take place in the winter months - St Andrews Day, Hogmanay and Burns Night.

St Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and on 30 November, we celebrate St Andrew’s Day by enjoying traditional food and drink. There are torchlight processions and ceilidh dances throughout the country, where you take the floor to exuberantly celebrate Scottish culture. It's all great fun!

One of Scotland’s most important festivals is Hogmanay, where we bid farewell to the year gone past and celebrate the New Year that is to come. There is a tradition of first-footing where we visit neighbours and friends after midnight, bringing some whisky to toast the new year.

An essential part of the Hogmanay celebrations is singing Auld Lang Syne, which loosely means “for the sake of old times”. You can discover the history and traditions of this popular song by reading our Auld Lang Syne, The New Years Anthem blog .

Burns Night

The last of our trio of celebrations takes place on 25 January each year, when Scots gather to celebrate our national poet, Robert Burns . Burns Suppers take place throughout his native Scotland as well as internationally.

At these lively gatherings, his memory is toasted with whisky and readings of his poems. A meal of traditional fayre is consumed, which includes a wee taste of haggis, presented in a lavish ceremony.

All over Scotland, local festivals take place throughout the winter months, including the famous Up Helly Aa fire festival in the Lerwick, Shetland. This historic event marks the end of Yuletide and culminates in a massive torchlight procession and the symbolic burning of a replica Viking Longship.       

Top things to do in Edinburgh in Winter

The Scottish Capital turns into a winter wonderland from the end of November to the start of January. There are lots of family-friendly events taking place, including traditional pantomimes, after-dark light trails and the famous Christmas market, of course.

Edinburgh is famed for its Hogmanay celebrations which attract visitors and locals alike. The programme includes a torchlight procession and the iconic Party at the Balls, featuring Basement Jaxx and Scottish DJ Arielle Free.

The climax comes when the bells toll midnight and the New Year is welcomed by a spectacular firework display against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle .

Edinburgh Attractions

Outwith the festive period, there are lots to keep you occupied on a visit to Edinburgh. There are major attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Yacht Britannia.

A new addition to Edinburgh’s key attractions is Johnnie Walker Princes Street which offers a customised whisky experience through the flavours of Scotland. 

Soak up culture and the arts with a visit to the Scottish National Gallery , where the collection includes masterpieces by Raphael, Titian and Monet. The National Museum of Scotland tells the story of Scotland, from dinosaurs to Dolly the sheep.

If you’re a music lover, the impressive Usher Hall is the venue for the Royal Scottish National Orchestra ’s winter season, providing a varied programme of classical music. Fancy something showier? Head to The Playhouse to see hit musicals straight from the West End.

Connecting Edinburgh’s many attractions is the Edinburgh City Tour which operates daily throughout the year. 

Best day trips from Edinburgh in Winter

Edinburgh makes the perfect base to see more of Scotland on a day trip. The shorter daylight hours means it’s best to plan your trip carefully to get the maximum benefit.

A popular bus tour from Edinburgh is the Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and Trossachs itinerary which explores the natural beauty of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National park, known as “The Highlands in Miniature”.

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is a mere 50 minutes away by train. This friendly city is famed for its fantastic free museums and galleries, beautiful parks and stylish shopping options.    

Highlands in the Winter

During the winter months, the scenic Scottish Highlands is transformed into a sporting wonderland. All sorts of outdoor pursuits take place, including skiing, snowboarding, curling and skating.

There are five ski resorts in Scotland at Cairngorm Mountain, Glencoe Mountain, Glen Shee, Nevis Range and The Lecht. Cross-country skiing is also available from the Nordic centre in Huntly.

If you fancy doing something entirely different, why not take a thrilling husky sledge ride? Aviemore is the location of the UK’s only working sled dog centre.

Also, in the Cairngorms National Park is a herd of free-roaming reindeer and the Highland Wildlife Park , which is home to polar bears, arctic foxes and leopards.

Enjoy your favourite malt

After a busy day of activities, what could be more relaxing than snuggling up in front of an open fire with your favourite whisky? If you are planning some sightseeing during your time in the highlands, it’s so easy to include a distillery visit to see how it’s lovingly created.  

Discover the traditions of whisky production perfected over the centuries. Your expert guide will explain how whisky is made using three simple ingredients – water, barley and yeast plus time.

After the tour, enjoy a tutored tasting of a dram or two. At some distilleries, a tasty pairing with chocolate or cheese is offered as an option.

Skye in Winter

The magical Isle of Skye is famed for its natural beauty, historic castles and iconic landscapes. Discover stories of feuding clans, Jacobite battles and the tragic story of the Highland clearances.  The island is most famously connected to the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie and his escape “over the sea to Skye”.

Visiting the Isle of Skye during the winter months is both convenient and affordable. The 3 day/2 night Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands Winter Tour departs weekly with prices as low as £215, including accommodation and breakfast.

Experience Winter Scotland with Scottish Tours

It’s easy to discover the beauty of Scotland during the quieter winter months with Scottish Tours.

We’re here to help you discover the place we call home and take you to the most iconic locations in the land. Our  award-winning tours  offer a full-immersive taste of Scottish life as you set sail on the trip of a lifetime. 

Browse our  Scotland Tours  and book online today

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• 8 Things To Do In Winter In Scotland For A Magical Vacation

23 Mar 2023

Located in the United Kingdom, Scotland is one of the best places that you can ever choose for a vacation. Adorned with charming villages and rolling countryside, Scotland provides you with the opportunity to enjoy adventure, experience culture, get relaxation at the same time. Scotland winter holidays are perfect for enriching yourself with multi-layered history, tasting top quality local produce, and attending arts festival. Have a look at some of the best things to do and make the most of your Scottish Getaway.

8 Thrilling Things To Do During Winter In Scotland

1. pay a visit to the wildest residents.

Winter in scotland will be incomplete without seeing the wild animals at Dumfries and Galloway. You will be able to spot red deer at the snow-dusted hillsides. You can go on a nocturnal wildlife tour in Dumfries and Galloway in order to be able to see the countryside critters, thanks to the thermal technology. In addition, you can also look for the sea eagles during your visit to the Isle of Mull.

Location: Dumfries and Galloway, Western Southern Uplands, Scotland. Best Experience: Experience wild animals i.e. sea eagles, red deer, etc. at Dumfries and Galloway.

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2. Go For Ice Climbing Sessions At Ice Factor

To experience winter in scotland temperature in the best possible manner, you should definitely go for ice climbing. Located at Glencoe, Ice Factor can be reached in two and a half hours from Glasgow. If you have always wanted to go for an incredibly rewarding challenge, this is your opportunity to do so. The 40 ft ice wall provides you with the opportunity to go for ice climbing sessions. Once you master the core techniques here, you can take yourself to the West Highlands for trying the newly acquired skills. Other indoor activities that you can do include rock climbing, ice climbing, aerial adventure, etc. These are one of the best things to do in winter in scotland.

Location: Leven Rd, Kinlochleven PH50 4SF, United Kingdom Best Experience: Go for the incredibly rewarding challenge of learning ice climbing sessions at Ice Factor.

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3. Walk On The Snow At Mains of Taymouth

Image source

One of the best places to visit in scotland in december is Mains of Taymouth. Snowshoeing is one of the most popular activities here. If you have always wanted to walk on pure white snow, this is the best opportunity to do so. Located in Perthshire, Mains of Taymouth provides you with the opportunity to go on exciting snowshoeing trips. In addition, you can consider going to C-N-Do Scotland for a guided expedition. You will be able to go for different trips including half day taster sessions, two day excursions, etc.

Location: Kenmore, Aberfeldy PH15 2HN, United Kingdom. Best Experience: Go for snowshoeing at the Mains of Taymouth.

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4. Create Your Own Ice Boudoir

Creating your own ice boudoir is one of the best ways to spend scotland winter holidays. In addition, you can take yourself for a thrilling trip amidst winter mountains. To further add to it, you can also go for an overnight stay in a snow hole. Located near Aviemore, Scot Mountain Holidays provides you with the opportunity to have a lifelong memory as you spend a few days in the Cairngorms. Nothing can be more fulfilling than watching the breathtaking sunrise from the mountain range here. This is one of the best places to visit in scotland in december.

Location: Fraoch Lodge, Deshar Rd, Boat of Garten PH24 3BN, United Kingdom. Best Experience: Create your own ice boudoir and enjoy the spectacular sunrise.

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5. Have Fun During A Curling Session

Your winter in scotland becomes even more fulfilling when you go for a curling session. Curling is one of the adventurous activities that the Scots invented. If you haven’t heard yet, there are popular international curling competitions as well. There are plenty of ice rinks where you can go for curling. You should definitely visit the Ayr Ice Rink.

Location: Ice Rink, Tam’s Brig, Limekiln Rd, Ayr KA8 8DG, United Kingdom Best Experience: Go for curling at Ayr Ice Rink.

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6. Pedal Across Snow With FatBike Tours

Another way to enjoy highlands scotland winter is pedalling across the snow with fat bikes. These fat bikes come with wider tires which help you ride on the terrains such as snow and sand. Letting you bike across surfaces that are not easy to ride with normal bikes. If you are visiting FatBike Tours, they will help you explore the serene beaches or snow-covered woodland trails. Visiting highlands scotland winter is one of the best things to do with fat bikes.

Location: 2 Law Road, North Berwick, East Lothian, EH39 4PL. Best Experience: Explore the soft terrains like snow and sand on fat bikes.

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7. Go For A Sled Dog Safari

If you have never explored sled dog racing in Scotland, your winter in scotland is the perfect opportunity to do so. Located the Aviemore, the sled dog safari center unravels the opportunity for you to go for this safari or even training session. This centre for the sport allows you to appreciate the snow-dusted Highlands as well. In addition, you will meet the hard working canines at the Cairngorm Sleddon Centre. Your winter in scotland will not be perfect without the sled dog safari.

Location: Moormore Cottage, Rothiemurchus Estate, Aviemore, PH22 1QU Best Experience: Go for sled dog safari at the Cairngorm Sleddon Centre.

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8. Enjoy Snowsports At Ski Centres

Enjoying snowsports is one of the best things to do in winter in scotland. There are five popular ski centers that you should be visiting to make the most of ski touring. During this invigorating activity, you will be able to go for mountaineering and skiing as well. Cairngorm Mountain is the best ski centers in Scotland. During the winter in scotland temperature, this is the perfect activity for adventure seekers.

Location: Ski Area, Cairngorm, Aviemore PH22 1RB, United Kingdom. Best Experience: Go for a thrilling skiing activity at Cairngorm Mountain.

This Harry Potter Themed Apartment In Scotland Is A Treat For All Wizards And Muggles Alike

Tips for visiting Scotland

1. Visiting in and around Scotland becomes easy with trains and bus services. If you are looking forward to explore villages, it is best to go to the ferry ports. Scotland is well connected with other parts of the globe.

2. Some of the most beautiful places that you should consider visiting during your trip to Scotland include Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Cairngorms National Park, Glencoe, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, etc.

3. While there are plenty of things to do in Scotland in winter, these are some of the best things that you shouldn’t miss. Enjoy your trip to Scotland and make some amazing memories.

Edinburgh Castle: Your Detailed Guide To Scale Historical Heights In Scotland!

With this we’ve now come to the end of our list of things to do in winter in Scotland to experience a surreal vacation with your loved ones and have a good time. Book a trip to Scotland and make sure you add these things to your list.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter In Scotland

What months are winter in Scotland?

Scotland remains extremely cold during the months between December to February. The average maximum temperature remains around 5 C.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Scotland?

You will be able to see the Northern Lights better from the northern part of Scotland. With minimum light pollution and the right weather conditions, you will be able to spot the Mirrie Dancers.

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