What are the best things to do in Scotland in September weather? Scotland’s weather can be changeable at any time of year but, generally speaking, September is one of the best times of year to visit. The days are still mild and the evenings are yet to draw in. There are likely to be a mixture of sunny and cloudy days and you may have some days of rain or short periods of showers.
If you are planning a holiday in Scotland in September, it’s wise to understand what kind of weather you are likely to get – so you can plan your route and what you are going to do accordingly.
Visiting Scotland in September? What’s the weather like?
September in Scotland offers a mix of crisp, clear days and occasional rain, so it is a good time to visit to explore Scotland’s natural beauty. However, have some wet weather things to do as a backup plan. The weather in Scotland is unpredictable at any time of year. The weather in Scotland in September can be sunny and mild or rainy with a bit of a chill, so come prepared for all weather conditions! Some years September is drier than August, others can be wetter.
Campervanning in Scotland offers total flexibility
One of the greatest advantages of hiring a campervan to tour Scotland is the flexibility it offers. With your own holiday accommodation on wheels you can easily adapt your plans in response to changes in the weather. For instance, if you wake up to a sunny morning, you can head straight to an outdoor activity. Conversely, if the skies are grey, you can opt for indoor attractions or scenic drives.
September marks the start of Autumn in Scotland
September is a transition month, as the last days of summer fade and we move into Autumn. You are more likely to get higher temperatures and more sunshine at the beginning of the month, with a greater chance of cloud or rain as more Autumnal conditions prevail. Typically, temperatures will hover between 9°C and 16°C, making it an ideal month to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities. And as we make our way into Autumn the landscape changes and you will be rewarded with a dramatic natural backdrop of autumnal golds and greens.
Things to Do in Scotland in September on Dry and Sunny Days
When the sun graces Scotland with its presence, the autumnal colours are absolutely stunning. With fewer tourists in September, the roads are emptier so clear days are perfect for a road trip. Here are some road trip ideas to consider:
Take a Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands
We maintain that there is nowhere more beautiful on earth than the Highlands on a clear, crisp, sunny Autumn day. Expect breathtaking scenery – wild moorland, dramatic mountains and rugged coastlines.
Visit Glencoe, famous for its magnificent mountain landscapes and hiking trails. In good weather, the hiking trails and viewpoints are unmatched. Follow the West Highland Way, a famous long-distance footpath, and enjoy stunning views along its length. This is an opportunity to totally immerse yourself in the beauty of the Highlands. If it rains, the Glencoe Visitor Centre offers interesting exhibits about the area’s history and geology.
NC500
The Highlands boast some of the most scenic drives in the world. The North Coast 500, known as Scotland’s Route 66, is a spectacular route that circles the northern coast. September is a good time of year to follow this famous route, with all the campsites still open for the season but fewer tourists on the road.
Towards the end of the month the natural spectacle of the Red Deer Rut begins, triggered by the drop in temperatures. You may be lucky enough to witness the raw power of the stags in combat as antlers clash and they vie for control of the hinds. Or hear their haunting raws echo around the Highland landscape. Look for the red deer in Glenlivet in the Cairngorms, Glencoe and on the Isles of Skye or Jura.
Oban and the West Coast
The west coast of Scotland is dotted with charming towns and beautiful landscapes. Oban, known as the Gateway to the Isles, is a delightful town to visit. From here, you can take a ferry to the Isle of Mull or explore the nearby Arduaine Garden, which is particularly beautiful in autumn.
A Day Trip to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
Iconic Loch Ness is wonderful in September. Enjoy the calm waters of the largest body of water in the UK on a boat trip or enjoy their beauty from one of the many walking routes around the loch. Nearby, the ancient ruins of Urquhart Castle provide a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s history and legends, with panoramic views of the loch. It takes about two and a half hours to drive around Loch Ness, but you will want to allow more time for stops to admire the views or to take a hike. If you happen to get a rain shower, retreat to the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition and delve into the myth of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.
Visit the Isle of Skye
The island’s rugged coastline, picturesque villages and mountain ranges make the Isle of Skye top of many visitors to Scotland’s must-visit destination lists. September brings a few more rainy days than August, but has temperatures only one or two degrees lower, and far fewer visitors than the super busy months of July and August. We could write an entire blog post about things to do on the Isle of Skye, when the weather is good. Highlights include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr and hiking the Quiraing. History lovers can explore Dunvegan Castle and nearby Eilean Donan Castle (on the mainland just across the bridge to Skye).
Wildlife Watching on Skye
Wildlife watching opportunities abound at this time of year – you will be able to see otters, deer and an abundance of bird life. If you are lucky you may spot a golden eagle at this time of year. Late September is the start of the breeding season for seals when they come ashore, so you may see some adorable babies.
Cairngorms National Park
Cairngorms National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Take advantage of sunny weather to explore everything it has to offer. This time of year presents a unique blend of late summer warmth and the onset of autumn, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
Hiking
The park boasts a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. The Cairngorm Mountains, with their rugged peaks and expansive views, is particularly popular. Trails like the Lairig Ghru and Ben Macdui challenge seasoned hikers, while paths around Loch Morlich and Glenmore Forest provide more leisurely walks with stunning scenery.
The park has an extensive network of cycling routes, including the Speyside Way and the Deeside Way. These routes pass through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open moorlands, offering cyclists both scenic beauty and physical challenge. Mountain bikers are well catered for in the Cairngorms, with trails at Laggan Wolftrax and Glenlivet providing adrenaline-pumping descents and technical sections.
Red deer spotting
The Cairngorms is a good place to see the red deer. Visitors can observe these majestic creatures in places like Glenfeshie and Rothiemurchus. Birdwatchers may be able to spot species such as golden eagles, ospreys, and capercaillies. To get the most out of your visit, think about taking a guided wildlife tour.
If you just fancy taking a road trip, follow the Snow Roads Scenic Route. This road takes travellers through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the UK. This 90-mile journey offers stunning views, quaint villages, and opportunities to stop and enjoy local food and drink.
To escape a shower, take a visit to Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the Royal Family. The castle’s grounds and gardens are open to the public until mid-September, providing a glimpse into royal life. September is the month when possibly the most famous Highland Games – the Braemar Gathering – takes place in the nearby village that gives the games their name.
Highland Traditions
The Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore offers an immersive experience into the area’s past, with reconstructed buildings and live demonstrations of traditional crafts. This is an open air museum, however, so whilst you can shelter from a shower in one of the historic buildings, it is probably best avoided on days with heavy rainfall.
Things to Do in Scotland in September on Rainy Days
Rainy days or showers are inevitable in Scotland, but they don’t have to dampen your spirits. On wetter days there are still plenty of things to do:
Edinburgh’s Museums and Galleries
Head to Edinburgh, where you could easily spend an entire week working your way through the museums and galleries. The National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery offer fascinating exhibits that will entertain you for hours. Don’t miss a visit to Edinburgh Castle, where you can explore the historic interiors and enjoy the views from the covered areas.
Whisky Distillery Tours
No trip to Scotland is complete without experiencing its whisky heritage. On a rainy day, book into a tour of one of the many distilleries. The Speyside region, in particular, is home to numerous famous distilleries such as Glenfiddich and Macallan. Follow the Speyside Whisky Trail and visit some of the most famous in the region. You will learn about the history of whisky, the whisky-making process and enjoy a tasting session.
Literary Festivals
Literary and book festivals run thoughout September in Scotland. The Nairn Book and Arts Festival runs between 31st August and the 8th September. It’s a nine day celebration of arts, culture and the Gaelic language in the Highlands. Bloody Scotland, is an international crime writing festival in Stirling. This year it takes place from 13th to 15th September. Wigtown in Dumfries and Galloway in the south west of Scotland is known as Scotland’s National Book Town. Wigtown Book Festival takes place from 27th Sept to 6th October 2024 with talks by best selling authors and literary based events for adults and children. The town’s streets are lined with independent booksellers and antique shops to visit in festival downtime or on a rainy day any time.
Folk Festivals
Experience traditional Scottish music at one of the folk festivals that take place during the month of September. Many of the performances are in venues so you’ll keep dry if its raining outside! Kelso in the Scottish Borders hosts Kelso Folk Festival on 6th-8th September, with concerts and workshops in multiple venues around the town. The following weekend, 13th-15th September Ardersier Folk Festival, organised by the Ardersier Folk Club, takes place. This little festival in Invernessshire has three days of workshops, open sessions, craft stalls and Ceilidh. On tiny Colonsay the Ceol Cholasa festival takes place each September – you will need to book ahead for this one as tickets sell out fast each year.
Come Prepared for Scotland in September Weather
By planning for both sunny and rainy days, you can make the most of your trip, no matter what the weather has in store. With the freedom and flexibility of a campervan, you’ll be well-equipped to explore all that Scotland has to offer. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
Pack for All Weathers
Given Scotland’s variable weather, pack clothing that can be layered. Waterproofs, sturdy boots, and warm layers are essential. Even on sunny days, the temperature can drop in the evening, so be prepared for all conditions.
Plan Your Route
While flexibility is important, having a rough itinerary will help you make the most of your trip. Identify key attractions you want to visit and plan your route accordingly. This will ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see sights.
Stock Up on Supplies
Before setting off, make sure your campervan is well-stocked with essentials. This includes food, water, and any camping equipment you might need. Scotland’s remote areas may not have frequent shops, so it’s best to be prepared.
Big Sky Campers Campervans for Hire
Scotland
Big Sky Campers is based in Rosyth, just outside Edinburgh. Our campervans for hire are fully equipped with everything you will need for your road trip in Scotland. They are fully insulated and have heaters so you will be warm on cooler nights. There are no hidden extras – everything is included in the price, including unlimited mileage, insurance for one driver, gas bottle, camping accessories, bedding, towels and extra sets of bedding if requested.
Got a question? Give us a call.
+44 (0)7768 973804