FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SCOTLAND IN OCTOBER
Whatever you’re wondering about visiting Scotland in October, we’re here to answer your most commonly asked questions.
October is a good time to visit as there is less traffic on the roads and less visitors at popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle. Combined with mild weather and a good amount of daylight hours, it makes it an ideal month to explore.
Read below to find out all the details from our local travel experts.
What are the best things to do in Scotland in October?
One of the advantages of Scotland is that you can visit many of its top attractions throughout the year. Even though the high season is winding down in October, you’ll still find plenty of fun adventures to take on.
Here are the 10 best things to do in Scotland in October:
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Drive around the beautiful Scottish Highlands
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Admire the natural scenery
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Go hiking and walking along the rugged hills
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Sail to one or more of the Scottish islands
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Explore picturesque, ancient ruins and castles
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Learn about Scotland’s Viking heritage
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Taste the various whisky flavours and local food
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Walk along the lochs and glens
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Immerse yourself in Gaelic culture
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Visit the buzzing cities, charming towns and fishing villages
What are the best places to visit Scotland in October
October is a great month to travel to Scotland and visit its towns, historic sites and natural highlights. More so, you’ll enjoy good daylight hours and mild weather, ideal conditions for exploring.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Scotland in October:
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Pop by
St Andrews to visit Scotland’s oldest university and the home of golf
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What is the weather like in Scotland in October?
October is a transitional month in Scotland between the cool summer and wet winter. This means that the weather can be varied. You can expect rain and wind, as well as possible frost. On average, there are highs of 12°C (54°F) and lows of 5°C (41°F).
What are October temperatures in Scotland?
The daily average for October is 10°C (43°F). But you can expect average temperatures to be anywhere between 5°C (41°F) and 12°C (54°F).
What to wear in Scotland in October?
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 starting to drop in October, we recommend wearing layers. That way you can remove or add clothes depending on the day’s weather. Make sure to bring some lightweight and warm under layers as well as a rain jacket, hat and scarf.
And if you wish to do any hiking in Scotland in October, make sure to bring some good hiking shoes, preferably waterproof.
What are the daylight hours in October in Scotland?
In October, the days are becoming shorter with fewer hours of daylight. During the last week of October, you can expect the clocks to move backwards to mark the end of daylight saving.
Early in the month in Scotland, the sun rises around 7:15 AM and sets by 6:45 PM. By the end of October, after the clocks change, you can expect shorter days, with daylight between 7:20 AM and 4:30 PM.
Does it snow in Scotland in October?
The mountains may have snowy peaks and there may be a bit of frost on some mornings. However rain is more common than snow in October in Scotland.
Can I see the northern lights in Scotland in October?
During the winter months, when daylight hours are shorter, it is possible to see the aurora borealis in remote corners of Scotland, but it’s still rare.
For your best chances of spotting the auroras, we recommend heading north into the “Northern Lights Belt” between October and March. You could pick a northern lights tour in Iceland, Lapland or Northern Norway.
What are the most popular events in Scotland in October?
There are many events taking place in Scotland in October, some of which you might want to go along to during your tour.
One of the most anticipated and high-quality events of the year is Enchanted Forest. This light show is set in the forest near Pitlochry and sells out early. Make sure to book your tickets in advance if you’d like to attend.
Other popular festivals and events include the Wigtown Book Festival and the Alfred Dunhill Links Golf Championship. You’ll also find a variety of local whisky, beer and gin festivals hosted around the country at this time of year, from Inverness to Ullapool.
What to pack for Scotland in October?
At this time of the year, it is best to be ready for all kinds of weather in Scotland. From the last few cool days of autumn to the windy and rainy weather of winter. 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 October:
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Lightweight layers like long sleeve shirts
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Warm jumpers or fleeces
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Waterproof jacket or shell layers
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Waterproof trousers
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Light scarf and gloves
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Warm hat
As well as these essentials, be sure to bring good sturdy walking or hiking boots depending on what activities you may want to enjoy.
How to tour Scotland in October?
There are various ways to travel on your Scotland tour in October. Depending on your personal tastes and requirements, you could either go for a guided or self-guided vacation.
Road trip around Scotland
October 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, the road conditions are usually good for touring and you’ll enjoy plenty of daylight hours to drive and explore.
Pick up your rental car from Edinburgh or Glasgow and drive to iconic locations. You could visit Loch Lomond, Inverness, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and Fort William, amongst many more.
Depending on the amount of time you have, there are many options and regions of Scotland you could incorporate into your travel plans. Do an express tour into the Highlands in 5 days or take 2 to 3 weeks to do a complete tour, including the northern and western isles.
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, make sure to hire an automatic car. Alternatively, you could choose from our privately guided tours instead and have a local expert do all the driving.
Learn about Scottish history and culture with a private guide
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 tour you pick, you’ll take advantage of all our signature benefits. As a local tour operator, we can guarantee you charming accommodation, daily breakfast, transportation, such as car rental and ferries, our Nordic Visitor Scotland Travel Guide, and a hand-marked map with your route and highlights.
You’ll also have activities, like entry to castles and distilleries, included in some packages.
Good to know: Our Scotland itineraries aren’t set in stone. Our Edinburgh-based Scotland experts will help you see the country your way, tailoring your itinerary and adding all the best excursions to suit you.
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