Things To Do In Scotland In Summer
Scotland is one of the most beautiful, rugged countries in the world, well known for its impressive mountain ranges, stunning scenery and raw landscapes. But it’s not just in winter that Scotlands beauty shines through. The summer time is when Scotland really comes to life with festivals, castles, vibrant cities, outdoor sports and stunning seaside locations to be enjoyed. It’s also when the weather will be more comfortable for you to get out and explore what the country has to offer. In this post, we’ll go through the best things to do in Scotland in summer.
Things To Do In Scotland In Summer
Go to one of Scotland’s famous festivals
Visit Loch Lomond
Visit Stirling
Go on a walk
Go on a Seafari adventure
Go to one of Scotland’s famous festivals
Scotland is well known for hosting a summer of incredible festivals. Edinburgh alone plays host to world famous events throughout August such as the Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo as well as the Jazz & Blues festival and the International Film Festival.
But there are plenty of other incredible events for you to attend in other parts of Scotland such as the Stirling Sumer Sessions, held at the foot of the iconic Stirling Castle, The Borders Book Festival near Melrose and the legendary Highland Games, which run at various locations around the country from May until September.
Whatever your passions or interests, Scotland will have an event for you to enjoy this summer.
Visit Loch Lomond
This freshwater lake is located in the heart of Scotland’s first National Park, The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. People come from all over to visit Loch Lomond because of its breathtaking beauty, wildlife, range of activities and quaint villages. The lake itself is the product of glacial excavation and sits just 7 metres above sea level and is home to 22 islands and 27 islets!
Beauty aside, Loch Lomond also has great historical significance in Scotland. Due to its position in the Southern Highlands, it was the site of many battles as clans fought to protect their lands.
There is plenty to do along the banks of Loch Lomond in the summer including beautiful walks, cycling, boat trips, visiting the local villages and watersports.
Visit Stirling
Known as ‘a small city with a big history’, Stirling will capture your imagination as you immerse yourself in 900 years of history. Of course one of the most famous, and important, landmarks in Stirling is its castle. This 12th Century stone marvel sits high upon a craggy peak, overlooking the city and beautiful surrounding landscape. Due to its location and elevated position, it has been a key stronghold over many years, often passing between Scottish and English power throughout the ages. It was most famously the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots and today, you can see how the royal apartments would have looked thanks to a huge restoration project.
Stirling is also home to many other attractions including the Old Town Jail, Blair Drummond Safari Park, Dunblane Cathedral plus the William Wallace Monument, a key highlight in the Stirling Skyline.
If shopping is more your thing, you can soak up the character of Stirling while browsing the shops in the city’s shopping centre, Thistles. Or for more boutique shopping, head to the Victorian shopping centre, the Stirling Arcade. Then, make your way to Stirling’s high street, Murray Place and Port Street, for a refreshment stop in the sunshine.
Go on a walk
If there is one thing Scotland is not short of, its breathtaking scenery and plenty of walks to enjoy it on! The best part is that there is a walk for every age and ability level, so everyone can enjoy the ever-changing vistas Scotland has to offer. Its a great idea to research the routes and conditions before you head out, these hiking and walking route ideas will be a great place to get started.
Even though we’re talking about summer, the weather in Scotland can of course be changeable. Make sure you have the right clothing and equipment for your walk, including sun screen!
Go on a Seafari adventure
With Seafari Adventures, you can go on wildlife and nature boat trips to spot whales, porpoises and sea birds from their base at Easdale in Oban, Scotland. They offer various tours to see the incredible wildlife but also, they run a tour to the Gulf of Corryvreckan, home to the World’s Third Largest Whirlpool!
The company have been operating these tours for many years and provide all the necessary safety equipment so you’ll be in safe hands out on the water. Visit the website for information and to book a tour.
On your summer adventures in Scotland, you’ll also find plenty of incredible food outlets and local delicacies to sample plus be able to enjoy a taster tipple or two at one of the many whisky distilleries. It really is the country that keeps on giving.
Have you visited Scotland recently? Feel free to share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below. Sharing is caring, share this guide with friends and family and encourage them to head off on their own Scottish Adventure!
