Cosy Scottish Winter Breaks

Scotland may not be of a tropical climate, but the country does not shy away from exciting activities during the colder months. So dig out your hats, scarves and cosiest pair of boots, because Scotland’s winter activities are not ones to be missed!
 

1. St Andrew’s Day

A national bank holiday in Scotland, St Andrew’s Day celebrates Scotland’s very own patron saint. Falling on the 30th of November, the day truly kicks off winter in the country. Want to be totally immersed, head to St Andrews where they’re sure to be celebrating with all-things Scotland such as food, music, dancing, recitations, and more!
 

2. Highland hikes

If you would much rather relax at a slower pace, then all of the scenic walks you checked out in summer will now have a magical dusting of snow, that just adds a little something to them. Head up to Highland Perthshire and take in the views from The Hermitage walk at Dunkeld, or stay in Perth City and take a stroll up Kinnoull Hill to catch the winter sunset over the city centre – just be sure to make your way down before it gets too dark!

3. Warm yourself up with whisky!

Scotland is not short of distilleries and with them being dotted all over the country there’s sure to be one near the property you’re staying in. Warm yourself up with a wee dram in the winter and you might even catch an informative distillery tour! If there’s a gift shop, you can even get some Christmas presents sorted! Check out your chosen distilleries winter opening hours if you’re planning a trip though, as they may vary!

4. Art galleries and museums

If you’re more comfortable indoors during the colder months, why not soak up the local history and culture at a museum or art gallery? Glasgow, in particular, has an array of choice and many of these are donation as an entry fee – making your trip pretty budget friendly!
 

5. The Northern Lights

Combine Scotland’s long winter evenings, a rare crisp, clear night, and being up North with very little light pollution and you might just see the Northern Lights! Follow @AuroraWatchUK on Twitter or download their app for alerts on the Aurora Borealis activity levels. Remember, it can get very cold at night so be sure to wrap up warm! Why not bring yourself a wee hot chocolate and sit under the stars while you wait to see if you can catch a glimpse!
 

6. Wildlife watching

If you’re venturing up into the hills then be sure to bring your binoculars and be on the ball as you may see something shifting in the snow… Ptarmigan is the only bird in the UK to turn completely white in winter and resides up in the mountains – where you’ll also find arctic hares! If you want to stay in the lower levels, then the winter birds are something spectacular in themselves, find out more from Wilderness Scotland, here.
 

7. Burn’s Night

Burn’s Night celebrates Scotland’s most famous poet, Robert (Rabbie) Burns! Rabbie is the national poet of Scotland, known worldwide, the 25th January, his birthday, honours his life and work with a Burns Supper. If you want a fully Scottish experience, then book yourself in for a Burns Supper featuring a feast of haggis, piped in and addressed by speaker, recitals of Burns’ work, and a Toast to the Lassies which has a, often cheeky, reply!