Shoulder Season spring or fall??

We have solved that question by travelling in May and September. While we haven't been to Scotland, we have found that in May our time is cool in the beginning and heats up by the end of our time (three weeks usually). In September our time starts out quite warm and cools down by the end of September. Last year our September vacation began in Denmark and ended further south in Germany.

Just about every post here where others have asked that same question of Scotland, the UK locals have chimed in and have all agreed that spring is better than fall. It's a bit less rainy, it's less dark, and overall, you'd be better off choosing the spring.

I was in Scotland in May of 2023 and it was wonderful then. Of course it rained at times, but not overly so, and the weather was not terribly cold. I think I wore a lightweight jacket most of the time, and that was fine. I'm heading back this spring in May as well, and I'm really looking forward to it. You will love Scotland no matter what the season, but I would recommend spring.

In spring everything still feels fresh and green as things begin to regrowing after the winter.. The wild flowers will be at their best.

September is still too early for autumn colours - you need to be October/November for them.

We were in Scotland this last May for 5 days. The temperature was in the 60’s and we had intermittent showers one day in Glasgow.

Mardee is absolutely right- May is one of the nicest times of year across the UK/Ireland. And the days are so long, it gives you more time for outdoor activities.

We're in Ireland or Scotland in May every year. If you look at climate averages, May has the driest weather. Long days and mild temps add to the argument. Smaller crowds of tourists is another bonus shared with September.. May is a no brainer for us in particular because we live in the West, and need to be closer to home to react to forest fires from June to September.

Hmmm...this is a tough one. My opinion is that either could be great or not so great. June is historically the best month of the year with a good balance of decent weather and not super crowded. However, it could be cold and rainy. I'd say September is my favorite time of year to visit (I go a few times a year to Ireland) but honestly, the Irish weather is luck of the draw. I know, probably not super helpful but I think you will love it in either season!