FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SCOTLAND IN MARCH
Whatever you’re wondering about visiting Scotland in March, we’re here to answer your most commonly asked questions. Read below to find out all the details from our local travel experts.
Is March a good time to visit Scotland?
March is a good time to visit as there is less traffic on the roads and less visitors at popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle. It’s good to be aware that some sites will operate on reduced hours, but you’ll find you have them more to yourself.
You’ll also benefit from some mild weather as spring is settling in around the country and longer days with the start of daylight savings. There are also many events held around the country, from music and film festivals to races and other sporting events.
What are the best things to do in Scotland in March?
A huge benefit is that many of Scotland’s amazing attractions are accessible all year long. What’s more, even with shorter daylight hours and cooler weather, if you’re travelling to Scotland during the winter months, you’ll find plenty of things to do.
Here are the 10 best things to do in Scotland in March:
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Drive around the beautiful Scottish Highlands
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Taste the local whisky flavours at distilleries
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Admire the stunning, natural scenery
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Visit the buzzing cities, charming towns and fishing villages
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Walk along the lochs and glens
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Explore picturesque, ancient ruins and castles
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Head off the beaten path in the islands
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Meet the local wildlife
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Take on a winter activity like skiing
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Learn about Scotland’s Viking heritage
What are the best places to visit in Scotland in March?
March is a great month to travel to Scotland. It’s still easy to drive around and visit the top attractions, including its lovely towns, historic sites and natural highlights.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Scotland in March:
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Pop by
St Andrews to visit Scotland’s oldest university and the home of golf
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Visit the picturesque towns of Pitlochry and
Dunkeld
What is the weather like in Scotland in March?
If you travel to Scotland in March, you can expect mild and changing weather in Scotland. Make sure to be prepared for rain as well as possible snowfall. On average, there are highs of 8°C (46°F) and lows of 1°C (34°F).
What are March temperatures in Scotland?
The daily average for March is 6°C (43°F). But you can expect average temperatures to be anywhere between 1°C (34°F) and 8°C (46°F).
What to wear in Scotland in March?
Like in many of the Nordic countries, Scots have the saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”.
As the weather is changeable in winter in Scotland, you can expect to experience all seasons in one day in March. For that reason, we recommend a mix of thin and warm layers. Wear thermal layers as well as a waterproof shell to be able to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.
This also goes for your feet. Make sure your walking shoes or boots are waterproof as you may encounter some wet and muddy ground.
What are the daylight hours in March in Scotland?
In March, the days are growing longer. This is especially thanks to the clocks springing forward due to the daylight saving starting at the end of March.
Early in the month in Scotland, the sun rises around 7 AM and sets by 5:45 PM. By the end of March, after the clocks change, you can expect longer days, with daylight between 6:45 AM and 7:50 PM.
Does it snow in Scotland in March?
March is one of the winter months when it is most likely to snow. What you’ll find is that it doesn’t settle on lower ground. It is in fact more likely to rain. However, if you head up into the Highlands, you can expect more snowfall.
How is driving in Scotland in March?
Winter in Scotland can bring icy and snowy conditions. However, you’re more likely to encounter rain, making it an easy location to do a winter road trip. Just make sure you come ready to drive on the left!
The days are growing longer, but we still recommend not overloading yourself with too much driving. This way, you can enjoy the sights along the way during the daytime.
During your trip check weather and road conditions regularly. For your peace of mind, our team is on hand 24/7 should you need to contact us at any point. And if there is an unexpected event or severe weather, we’ll get in touch and modify your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed.
When you book a self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor, your car rental comes with collision damage waiver and a hand-marked map of your route. You also get two named drivers on the insurance policy so you can share the driving with a travel companion.
What are the most popular events in Scotland in March?
March is a quiet month in Scotland, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of events to go around. Here are some of the popular festivals held around the country in March:
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Inverness Music Festival
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Glasgow Film Festival
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Braemar Mountain Festival
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Fife Whisky Festival
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Aberdeen Jazz Festival
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Aye Write! Glasgow’s Book Festival
For more festivals and fun events such as Highland games, we recommend coming at the height of summer. Visit Scotland in July and August for better weather and more outdoor fun.
What to pack for Scotland in March?
For a trip to Scotland in March, it is best to be ready for all kinds of weather. From rainy weather to the colder mountain climate, make sure to pack all the necessary clothing. That way, come rain or shine, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country.
Here is a list of packing essentials for your Scotland tour in March:
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Lightweight layers like long-sleeved shirts
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Warm jumpers or fleeces
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Jeans or warm trousers
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Waterproof jacket
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Waterproof trousers
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Scarf, gloves and a warm hat
As well as these essentials, be sure to bring good sturdy walking or hiking boots as well as wool socks if you want to go for forest or hill walks.
How to tour Scotland in March?
There are various ways to travel on your Scotland tour in March. Depending on your personal tastes and requirements, you could either go for a guided or self-guided vacation.
Road trip around Scotland
March is a great time to visit Scotland on a self-drive tour, which would allow you to stop at the sights you want to see at your own pace. At this time of year, there are fewer visitors and less traffic on the roads.
Pick up your rental car from Edinburgh or Glasgow and drive to iconic locations. You could visit Loch Ness, Inverness, the Isle of Skye and Fort William, amongst many more.
Driving in Scotland is an adventure that you won’t regret! Especially if you book with Nordic Visitor, as we offer collision damage waiver and a 24/7 helpline for emergencies.
Good to note: In Scotland, and the wider UK, motorists drive on the left. If you’re not used to that, we recommend you hire an automatic car or book a private tour.
Tour Scotland with a private guide
Do you want to leave the driving to someone else? You might prefer to be accompanied by your very own local expert throughout your Scotland experience.
Our privately guided tours are one of the most exclusive ways to see Scotland and learn all about this beautiful country. You’ll have your own personal guide to show you the best locations and teach you about the local history.
Whatever package you pick, you’ll take advantage of all our signature benefits. As a local tour operator, we can guarantee you charming accommodation, daily breakfast, our Nordic Visitor Scotland Travel Guide, and a hand-marked map with your route and highlights.
All our winter tours also include a Historic Scotland Explorer Pass so you can pick the attractions you want to visit.
Good to know: Our Scotland itineraries aren’t set in stone. Tailor your trip online by adding extra nights and optional activities. Or, ask your Edinburgh-based travel consultant for recommendations – they know the country inside out.
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