Highland cow in the snow near Inverurie
WHEN DOES WINTER START IN SCOTLAND?
Winter in Scotland roughly ranges from mid November till early March. However, winter conditions in Scotland can arrive as early as October and remain in the higher mountains until late April, early May.
WHAT ATTRACTIONS ARE OPEN IN WINTER?
Although some attractions do close over the winter months (usually from the end of October to late March) there are still plenty that are open all year round and are quieter in winter than at any other time of year.
Experience world-famous castles without the crowds, see streets decked out in winter lights and snap pictures of Scotland's landscapes in all their winter finery.
HOW COLD IS WINTER IN SCOTLAND?
Despite what you may have heard, Scotland has a pretty temperate climate, even in winter! Generally, January and February are the coldest months, but even then the daytime maximum temperatures average from 5 °C (41 °F) to 7 °C (45 °F) - much higher than other places on the same latitude, such as Hudson Bay in Canada, Stavanger in Norway or Nunivak Island in Alaska.
The grounds of Scone Palace, Perthshire
© Perth and Kinross council / Fred Murray
WHAT WILL WINTER CONDITIONS IN SCOTLAND BE LIKE?
In terms of where to expect snow in Scotland, it's very hard to say, and depends quite a lot on where you're going. You're much more likely to encounter freezing conditions and snow in the north of Scotland than in the south, while the west coast gets more rain and snow than the east.
On the whole you can expect cool and crisp weather, but ice, rain, wind and snow are all possible too. Extreme weather rarely lasts long in Scotland though. Often you can encounter freezing conditions one day and wake up to warming sunshine the next.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR A WINTER BREAK IN SCOTLAND?
There are some key items you'll need to enjoy winter in Scotland:
- a thick coat, ideally windproof and waterproof.
- sturdy winter shoes/boots with good grip.
- plenty of clothes for layering.
- a cosy hat, scarf and gloves.
