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When to visit Scotland

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When browsing through photos taken at different times of the year, you might find yourself wondering, “Is this really still Scotland?” While Scotland is often associated with its rugged landscapes, famously showcased in shows like Outlander, it’s easy for this stunning part of the country to be seen as all it has to offer.

At Tiernan Travel, a luxury destination management company with years of experience, we specialise in creating bespoke Scottish adventures that change with the seasons. Our bespoke itineraries are carefully designed to ensure every trip highlights the most exciting and memorable experiences this incredible country has to offer, no matter when you visit.

Whether it’s spring boat trips in Oban to witness puffins, seals, and basking sharks, or wandering the cobbled streets of Edinburgh at Christmas, soaking up the festive atmosphere before warming yourself by the fire with a dram of fine Scottish whisky, Tiernan Travel is dedicated to turning your dream holiday into reality.

When to Visit Scotland

“There’s no such thing as bad weather… Just the wrong clothing”.

This is an old expression many will have heard a lot growing up in the UK, especially in places like Scotland where you can often experience ‘all four seasons’ of weather conditions in one day with a 1 hour difference between heavy raincoats and t-shirts. 

As luxury travel advisors, through our years of experience and partnership with expert local guides across Scotland we know that one thing we cannot control is the weather. However, one key thing we have learned along the way is that each changing season brings with it the opportunity to experience this incredible country in a completely new light. 

Below are some of our personal highlights of experiences on offer through the seasons, based on not just our own experience, but that of so many happy clients who have shared with us what it was that gave their journeys that extra special touch. 

Spring 

Eilean a’ Cheò (The Misty Isle), or the Isle of Skye as it is more commonly known as, is world famous for its varied landscapes that give home to an abundance of nature. What better time to see The Misty Isle in all its glory than throughout spring, as all of the new life begins. 

“Whether you’re looking to visit the most famous spots, spot a seal or a whale on a kayak adventure, or looking to relax with local food, al fresco, watching a stunning sunset… we’ve got something for you this spring!” Link

Summer 

“Shetland’s world-famous small ponies can be seen throughout the islands – grazing by the roadside, on the beaches or on the heathery hills” Link

Open from May to September only, the Shetland Pony Experience is a ‘must’ for all nature lovers. What better way to not just experience the majestic landscape of the Shetland Isles than to immerse yourself in its most iconic residents who have roamed the rugged Isles for over 4,000 years, the Shetland Ponies. On a visit to The Shetland Pony Experience you will have the opportunity to do just that! Across three different indoor and outdoor stations you will not only learn about these unique animals, but have the chance to meet them and get to know their individual personalities, with an abundance of picturesque photo opportunities along the way.

Autumn 

For anyone looking to follow the footsteps of Harry Potter on his journey to Hogwarts, a trip on the Jacobite Steamtrain is a must! Steeped in history from what many consider a ‘golden age’ of luxury travel where nobles and elites across Britain would travel in luxurious carriages pulled by these majestic steam engines, you would be forgiven for feeling like you have stepped back in time when you come abroad. 

At this time of year, looking out through the train carriage windows, as the steam from the engine clears you will be met with a beautiful array of autumnal colours in the landscape, all building up to the world famous Glenfinnan Viaduct that will be so familiar to Harry Potter Movie fans. 


Winter 

There is little that epitomises a picturesque Scottish adventure more than a cold winter’s night, walking through the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to be met by a roaring fire as you sit down to enjoy a cosy evening of local food and storytelling. Having spent the day exploring the extensive Christmas markets in the city, whether you are keeping warm with locally foraged food at the award winning Wedgewood Kitchen or expanding your whiskey palette having a ‘Taste of Scotland’ at the Scotch Whiskey Experience, there will be plenty to get you well and truly into the ‘Christmas Spirit’. 

At Tiernen Travel, we pride ourselves in bringing together our experience and passion to provide the most unforgettable Itineraries throughout the year, here’s what one of our agents had to say in one of our many 5 star TrustPilot reviews;  

“Kristine & her team are always a pleasure to work with! They are so knowledgeable & always accommodate my clients’ requests. I appreciate their attention to detail & quick responses. I also love that I can trust them to assist my clients throughout the entire travel process, so I don’t need to worry about a thing!” (Kendra Wagner

For a tailored itinerary bringing together the best of what Scotland has to offer through the seasons, please click on the button below to complete our initial inquiry form. 

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When to visit Scotland