Summer is still very much present, but the first signs of autumn are starting to appear… Yes, it’s September, one of the best times of the year to travel to Scotland! Tom, our founder, and Amy, an expert guide at Adventures Scotland, share their insights with you. Here are their three main reasons why September is such a great month to visit Scotland:
Summary:
1.Weather
2.Prices and Availability
3.What to Wear?
4.Midges
5.What Activities to Enjoy in September?
7.Wildlife and Flora
8.September Events
Is September a Good Month to Visit Scotland?
Absolutely yes! Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions:
Scottish Weather in September
Let’s get straight to the point—this is the question we get asked the most! September is a very pleasant month to travel in Scotland, even though statistically, it is one of the rainiest. It marks the transition between summer and autumn, offering exceptional light even as the hours of daylight begin to decrease. The west of Scotland is likely to experience more humidity and wind from the North Atlantic, while the eastern part will see less rain and more sunshine.
This month, temperatures are fairly consistent across Scotland’s lowlands and naturally cooler at higher altitudes. In Edinburgh, daily highs are generally around 16°C (61°F) and lows around 9°C (48°F) in September. For example, the highest peak in the United Kingdom, Ben Nevis, standing at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet), sees average maximum temperatures of 7°C (45°F) and minimum temperatures of 2°C (36°F).
Prices and Availability (Flights, Hotels, Activities)
Let’s be clear and direct: September is an excellent month for prices. Whether it’s for flights, hotels, car rentals, or activities, you will find very good deals for a simple reason: demand is lower. September is an intermediate period between high and low season when the weather is still pleasant, but the prices for flights, accommodations, car rentals, and activities start to drop. Families usually return to their autumn routines during this month, so there will be fewer people around the lochs, islands, and hiking trails, as well as at the famous sites in Edinburgh after a festival-packed August. If you are looking for the lowest prices and the least crowds in Scotland, September is the month to choose.
Clothing: The Ideal Suitcase for a September Trip
As in many Nordic countries, Scots have a saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” Therefore, we recommend wearing clothes in layers. This way, you can add or remove clothing based on the weather conditions. Make sure to pack lightweight, warm underwear and a rain jacket.
It’s advisable to prepare for layering clothes to transition from the late summer warmth to overcast and rainy skies. Also, bring a waterproof jacket, an umbrella, and sturdy, moisture-resistant walking or hiking shoes. It’s always better to be prepared 😊.
Are There Midges in September?
If you’re going on a road trip in the Highlands, the islands, or more generally through the Scottish countryside, beware of midges, small insects similar to gnats that can bite during the summer months. However, their numbers decrease significantly from mid-September onwards. There are ways to avoid midges, as they thrive in humid and windless conditions and are usually most active early in the morning and evening.
What to Do in Scotland in September?
Hiking, of course! But there’s more. With pleasant weather, most outdoor activities are accessible and enjoyable. It’s also a great time to visit cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. Now that the August crowds have thinned out, it’s the perfect time to take your time and explore.
Hiking
Thanks to the weather, September often still feels like summer. This is true until the 20th! September is the ideal month to venture onto the Scottish trails if you want to soak up the beautiful summer sunlight but prefer to avoid the accompanying heat. In September, the air is still warm enough to feel summery but cool enough to avoid being too chilly. Unofficially, most of the month feels more like a cooler summer than full-on autumn—a particularly enjoyable transition period for hikers.
Mountain Biking
You may know that Scotland is one of the world’s most renowned destinations for mountain biking and cycling in general (the World Cycling Championships are organized here in the summer of 2023). With spots like Fort William, Torridon and Skye, the Cairngorms, and the Tweed Valley, the choices are endless, and September is the ideal month to explore them.
Rafting
September is a good month for rafting in Scotland. There are three main rivers for white-water rafting. The River Tay is accessible year-round, but two others are seasonal. The River Orchy offers suitable conditions only a few times in winter, so the best choice is often the seasonal River Tummel. Its route descends through the Highlands and crosses several lochs, including Loch Rannoch and Loch Tummel, featuring thrilling obstacles like the “Zig-Zag” and the famous “Shark’s Tooth,” and especially the Tummel Falls. While no prior experience is necessary, rafting on the Tummel is certainly not for the faint-hearted. Rafting sessions are available only on Saturdays from June to September when a certain amount of water is released from the Clunie Dam by Scottish Hydro Electric.
Sea Kayaking
September is a good time to enjoy late summer water activities, such as sea kayaking, before autumn begins to show. The ideal period for kayaking in Scotland runs from May to September when the sea is calmer and the water and weather are warmer. Conveniently, this is also when you can see the most beautiful landscape colors and have the best chance of spotting marine animals like dolphins.
Canoeing
Scotland is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world for canoeing, offering a myriad of possibilities. Good news for those traveling to Scotland in September: the season generally lasts until the end of October. Check our article about the best river to canoe in Scotland
Fishing
September is one of the best months for fishing in Scotland, and here’s why: Wild brown trout fishing is at its peak, as fish feed heavily before the spawning period. Salmon are abundant in the Tweed and Tay rivers, and the autumn run of Atlantic salmon begins. Sea fishing is productive, with large predators to be caught. Grayling fishing in rivers is at its best. Lastly, there are fewer tourists and anglers to disturb you, although, admittedly, space issues are quite rare in Scotland 😊.
Visiting Scottish Castles
Many Scottish castles are open to visitors in September. Be sure to ask us for advice or check the castles’ websites for opening hours, as they can vary. See our article on Scottish castles for more information.
Fauna and Flora in September
September is a great month to observe Scottish wildlife and flora. If you want to witness the rutting season of the famous Scottish red deer, we recommend visiting at the end of September and into October.
Distilleries
For those interested in tasting Scotland’s national drink, there are around a hundred whisky distilleries, most of which are open for visits year-round.
Is it possible to see the Northern Lights in Scotland during September?
It is unlikely that you will be able to see the Northern Lights in September. They are usually visible during the Scottish winter (from November to March) when the daylight hours are shorter, but even then, sightings are rare.
Is it possible to attend Highland Games in September?
Yes, some Highland Games take place in September, and it is definitely possible to attend as a spectator. This age-old tradition continues throughout the country, featuring Highland dances, caber tossing, various races, tug-of-war, and bagpipe parades. You will find games organized across the country, from Oban and Stirling to the Isle of Skye and the northern Highlands. The Braemar Gathering is the most popular Highland Games event in September. See below for more details.
Major events taking place in Scotland in September 2024:
-Braemar Gathering (September 7, 2024) – Held in Braemar, this is one of the most famous Highland Games events, known for its traditional Scottish athletic competitions, dancing, and music, and it typically features a member of the British royal family. More info here
-Largs Viking Festival (August 31 – September 8, 2024) – This family-friendly event in Largs celebrates Viking heritage with a range of activities including battle re-enactments, a Viking village, and a parade. More info here
-Pitlochry Highland Games (September 14, 2024) – Another notable Highland Games event featuring traditional events such as caber tossing, tug of war, and Highland dancing, along with a grand pipe band contest. More info here
-Wigtown Book Festival (September 27 – October 6, 2024) – Located in Scotland’s National Book Town, this festival attracts book lovers and features talks by renowned authors, workshops, and a variety of cultural activities. More info here
-Loch Ness Marathon (September 29, 2024) – A popular marathon event that takes place along the scenic shores of Loch Ness, offering a challenging route and stunning views. More info here
-Spirit of Speyside: Distilled Food and Drink Festival (September 6-7, 2024) – This festival in Speyside celebrates the region’s rich heritage in whisky and local food, featuring tastings and culinary events. More info here
-Edinburgh Kiltwalk (September 15, 2024) – This fundraising walk event takes participants through Edinburgh, raising money for various charities while enjoying the city’s beautiful landscapes. More info here
-International Ayr Show Festival of Flight (September 6-7, 2024) – Held at Ayr Shore Front, this air show features thrilling aerial displays and is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts. More info here
These events highlight Scotland’s rich cultural heritage and offer unique experiences for visitors throughout September. Be sure to check specific dates and details closer to your visit to ensure you don’t miss out on these exciting activities.
So, are you tempted to explore Scotland in September? Our team of local guides and advisors is here to assist you. Don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your future trip to Scotland. Click here to get in touch.