Hello, we are planning a trip for Scotland in mid November and wondering if it will be wise to visit the Highlands? Will it be extremely cold? It looks like temperatures are in the 50s during the day but it will get dark early so trying to figure out if we can visit from Edinburgh as day trip. We have 5-6 nights. Thanks
I wouldn't consider 40s and 50s extremely cold. But, add wind and rain to the mix and your comfort level will go down. Just be sure to dress appropriately including waterproof, not water resistant, jackets/coats.
Not only early sunsets, but late sunrises in November. Will you be driving? You do not want to be on the ride in the dark- too many hazards.
If you only want a day trip, consider booking a small group tour with a company like Rabbie's. They offer a few choices for a taste of the Highlands.
The Highlands is a massive area. Where in the Highlands do you want to visit? A small bus tour by Rabbies would probably be a good option for a day trip. Bring layers including waterproof and windproof outer layers if you plan to do any walking in the hills. You’ll definitely want a warm hat, scarf and gloves too.
The Highlands are an all year round destination.
The colours in November are unbelievably beautiful - rich auburn moorland against dark blue lochs and the sea.It's certainly a favourite time for photographers though no or very little tree foliage left.Some great light but yes - dress up warm and with waterproofs too.
You can certainly travel a fair old distance with that length of time.Are you happy to hire a car? If so, day trips from Edinburgh wouldn't be my choice as that will limit you re the Highlands.As suggested, doing an organised multi day tour might suit; they run all year round and are good value if driving yourself doesn't appeal.
Thank you all for the feedback. I think November may be a little too cold or rainy for our liking. What month do you think is a good time to go?
I agree with your decision- November is my least favourite month in the UK (including in Scotland)- it is just so rainy and dark. If I could leave the country for a month every year that's when I'd do it.
If you want an alternative suggestion, I'd go with May or June- the weather is generally good, and up in the highlands you get very long days. May is probably a bit less busy than June so might be more availability.
The summer months will give you more daylight and usually nicer weather. Mid July sunset is 10ish.
The drawback of summer is more tourists so book rooms early for best choice. The Edinburgh Tattoo will be August 7-29 next year. This causes hotel prices to skyrocket and brings huge crowds to the city.
There's lots of ways to see "The Highlands". But, to offer more help, we need to know a few things.
If you just want a day trip 1 of the Rabbie's tours mentioned previously would be perfect. There are several other companies also offering day trips.
If you want to drive and spend a few days in the Highlands there are many more choices.
If you do not want to drive, but have a couple days you could take the train from Edinburgh or Glasgow to Oban on the west coast going through some beautiful scenery. From Oban you could visit the islands of Mull and Iona by bus and ferry. This would require a minimum 2 nights in Oban.
We prefer not to drive so taking bus/train from Glasgow sounds great! Thanks