Scotland in November – Here’s What to See and Do

Some consider the weather conditions at this time of year to be inhospitable for a luxury vacation in Scotland. But we beg to differ, as this remarkable corner of the world has something unique to offer in each season – even when it’s cold and wet. Temperatures can vary greatly across the regions, but generally, you can expect it to be somewhere between 4°C and 9°C. Though chilly it may be, it’s an ideal time to witness the nation’s national parks, woods and forests transform with golden hues. And with crowds dispersing from October onwards, you’ll be able to miss the busy tourist crowds. Here are some of the things to see and do if you’re visiting Scotland and the Highlands in late fall.

On a dry day, you won’t want to miss the incredible views of Loch Dunmore and Faskally Woods in Highland Perthshire, or The Hermitage in Dunkeld. Both of these are relatively flat areas, making them easy to explore even when the ground is wet. Precipitation is much higher in November than October, but if you are lucky enough to have a nice, crisp morning with clear skies, you will find the painted orange and yellow vistas to be nothing short of magical. Be sure to wear walking shoes with a good grip, and don’t forget your waterproof jacket.

Other spectacular places to experience Scotland at fall time include Queen’s View at Loch Tummel, Dawyck Botanic Gardens near Peebles, Crathes Castle Gardens along Royal Deeside, and Glen Finglas in The Trossachs.

Many distilleries are open late into November (with some in December too), so whiskey enthusiasts can enjoy educational tours and learn more about this prolific production in this whiskey-loving nation. Even if you can’t get to a nearby distillery, Scotland’s towns and cities have plenty of whiskey bars where tastings are available throughout the year. If it’s cold outside, a few glasses will certainly warm you up.

If you’re staying in the capital, don’t miss The Scotch Whisky Experience, or the famous bars such as the old and charming Whiski on High Street, the stylish Whiski Rooms on North Bank Street, the cool and laidback Bow Bar on Victoria Street, and Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar at the Scottish Malt Whisky Society on Queen Street.

So many interesting festivals take place (indoors) at this time of year. So you’ll find plenty of excuses to escape the cold. The Festival of Wine takes place at The Balmoral in Edinburgh early on in the month, where visitors will have a chance to sample some of the best varietals from around the world. There’s also a number of whisky festivals, including the Glasgow Whiskey Festival, a major event with regional producers exhibiting.

Other interesting festivals are the Stirling Gin Festival, the Scots Fiddle Festival, and Perth Chocolate and Gin Street Fest.

Scotland is home to some of the best museums in Europe, including famous attractions such as The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a previous Royal residence to Her Majesty The Queen for over 44 years. The capital also boasts the National Museum Of Scotland and the spectacular Edinburgh Castle. But outside of the city, the museums are just as unique and interesting. Don’t miss the Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, located by Glasgow’s west end – or the Hunterian Museum at the University of Glasgow. Or learn more about the nation’s favorite son at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway.