Planning summer in Scotland becomes much easier when you have the facts in one place. Long daylight, mild temperatures, and a full event calendar make June to August a great period for traveling. Wondering where to go and what to do? Welcome to the perfect guide to spending the best summer in Scotland! You will find weather details, curated activity lists, beach picks, and summer friendly food stops, so continue scrolling for the unmissable tips!
Key Takeaways
- Summer in Scotland runs from June to August with long daylight and mild temperatures of around 20°C.
- Top historic activities this summer include the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Cowal Highland Gathering, Stirling Castle, and Urquhart Castle.
- Best outdoor activities include Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill, Ben Lomond, Glencoe Lost Valley, and Cairngorms National Park.
- Beaches we recommend are Luskentyre, West Sands, Portobello, and Gullane Beach.
- Popular places to eat are The Milkman, Mimi’s, Lovecrumbs, Books and Beans, Cold Town House, The Ship on the Shore, and Rocpool.
Summer weather in Scotland
Summer in Scotland covers June, July, and August. Average daytime highs often sit near 17°C to 18°C across many areas. Nights are cooler, so pack layers and a waterproof jacket just in case of a quick rain. Around the summer solstice, you can expect 17 hours of daylight in cities like Edinburgh. In the north, usable twilight lingers even longer. Compared to shorter spring days, chill autumn months, and cold winters, summer gives you the best weather and the most daylight for outdoor plans. You can start early, build flexible itineraries, and still enjoy late meals outdoors.
What to do in Scotland during summer
Now that you know the weather pattern, it is time to plan days that make the most of those long evenings. Here is our curated list of activities and places to visit this summer in Scotland:
Historical Activities
- The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Every August, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo transforms the Edinburgh Castle esplanade with massed pipes, drums, and precision marching. Seats face the castle backdrop and a full lighting design. Central blocks offer clear sight lines, while side blocks bring a close view of the performers. Visitor reviews state that they enjoyed the set pieces and the fireworks near the finale. We recommend arriving early for calm check-ins, and bringing a light sweater for breezy evenings. Of course, book in advance as it is a signature summer event that blends tradition and modern production in Edinburgh. - Cowal Highland Gathering in Dunoon
Late August brings the Cowal weekend to Dunoon on the Clyde coast. It is widely called the largest Highland Games event, with strong pipe band and dance competitions. Ferries and roads can be busy, so buy tickets ahead and confirm travel plans. Both families and history fanatics will find a broad mix of events across the site. The atmosphere is festive with local food stalls and live music, so check out the timetable and seat maps on the official page before your visit. - Stirling Castle near the River Forth
Stirling Castle crowns a volcanic crag with wide views over the River Forth. The restored Royal Palace shows bright interiors and detailed carvings. The Great Hall hosts displays that explain the court life, and visitors can join short guided talks that bring stories to life. Summer brings longer opening hours on many dates, so book a morning slot to enjoy calmer rooms. Anyone can easily walk around the castle as its grounds are compact and easy to navigate. - Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness
Urquhart Castle sits on a headland with open views along Loch Ness. The castle ruins capture the turbulent history of more than 1,000 years. Visitors can enjoy the open lawns, the Grant Tower, and even take a peek into the old prison cells! Summer crowds can be strong, so book ahead and arrive early or late in the day. We recommend combining your visit with a short cruise on the loch from nearby piers to allow time to linger on the shoreline for the best water views. To compare more castle options and plan a route, use this helpful overview of castles in Edinburgh.
Outdoor Activities
- Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill
Edinburgh offers two quick viewpoints that fit easily into any day. Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano with a short yet steady climb and nice city views. Calton Hill is a gentler climb with monuments and a sweeping outlook over Princes Street. We recommend starting early to avoid the midday crowd and wearing walking shoes with good grip. On breezy days, bring a windproof layer as well. For more route ideas and a mix of gentle and moderate walks in the capital, see this guide to hiking in Edinburgh. - Ben Lomond above Loch Lomond
Ben Lomond is the most southerly Munro and is ranked as the top 30th summit in the British Isles, standing 974 meters tall. Allow half a day for the entire trip, and watch the forecast as clear days bring a dramatic view over Loch Lomond and its islands. Parking fills early in summer, so we recommend arriving before 10 AM. - Glencoe Lost Valley
Glencoe draws visitors for its peaks and ridges, yet the Lost Valley offers a manageable taste of the drama. The path is rocky and includes scrambles, so you need to be capable of hiking. The reward after the challenging hike is a hidden basin under towering cliffs. If weather conditions look uncertain, choose valley floor trails with grand views upward for safety. A little tip from the locals: stop by the Three Sisters for an amazing picture! - National Park in the Cairngorms
The Cairngorms houses the largest national park in the UK, with 4,528 square kilometers, offering various paths and trails for visitors of all ages. 25% of the UK’s rare and endangered species reside here, and various wildlife often appear to surprise the visitors. You can bring a bike, a dog, or even a tent for an overnight stay, and you might be just lucky to spot deers on your campsite. The loch and rivers at the park provide perfect grounds for watersports, so summer is the best season to visit the park.
Beaches
- Luskentyre Sands on Harris
Luskentyre in the Outer Hebrides ranks as the most photogenic beaches in the UK. There are sand dunes on the northern side of the bay, and a short walk along the shore provides a great view of Harris Mountains. You can find parking at the end of the road, and it is good to note that as facilities are limited, bringing food, water, a picnic blanket and beach chairs is advised. Late summer is the best time to visit as you can get a good view of Seilebost from the beach. - West Sands at St. Andrews
West Sands is a long sandy beach that stretches out for more than three meters with sand dunes. You can reach it on foot in 15 minutes from town, which makes the trip very convenient. There are public toilets and parking offered to all visitors, and the lifeguards keep the waters safe. Therefore, West Sands is a promising destination for families with young travellers. - Portobello Beach in Edinburgh
Portobello offers a deep sandy strand and a long promenade. It is an easy city beach day with frequent buses from central Edinburgh. Visitors can enjoy the flat paths to walk and the space to spread out. Cafes and ice cream spots line the front, while local community groups keep the beach tidy and promote summer events. - Gullane Bents in East Lothian
Gullane has a wide bay backed by dunes and grass. Access is simple, and you can explore paths that thread the coast. Long, beautiful walks are guaranteed at this beach with a stunning view from the Gullane point. For watersports fans, windsurfing and kitesurfing are available when the breeze rises, so it is a great choice if you meet a breezy summer day. Take the public buses through the Gullane village to make the trip easy without a car.
What to eat in Scotland during summer
After a full summer day outside, you will want food that matches the season. Here are our best cafe and restaurant picks for summer in Scotland:
Cafes
- The Milkman in Edinburgh Old Town
This compact cafe on Cockburn Street serves specialty coffee, iced options, and sweet bakes in a cosy space. On bright days, grab a takeout and climb Calton Hill for a 15 minute view stop. It is a simple win for visitors who want quality coffee near key sights. - Mimi’s Bakehouse in Leith
Mimi’s on the Shore is a local favourite for cakes, scones, and bright brunch plates. The setting beside the port of Leith adds a relaxed seaside mood. Seasonal specials change often, and the bakes are fresh each morning. Their signature afternoon teas are perfect for summer celebrations, and even kids can enjoy a kids’ afternoon tea set if you book in advance. - Lovecrumbs in West Port
Lovecrumbs focuses on inventive cakes and cookies with many vegan friendly options. Coffee is smooth, and iced drinks help on warm afternoons. Arrive early for the best pick of treats, since favourites can sell out fast and you cannot make a reservation. After a slice, stroll to the nearby Grassmarket or up to the castle esplanade. - Books and Beans Aberdeen
Books and Beans combines a cafe with a secondhand book shop on Belmont Street. Their menu covers standard British brunches, cakes, and a good range of drinks. On summer days, you can finish your trip with a stroll through Union Terrace Gardens nearby.
Restaurants
- Cold Town House in Edinburgh
This lively spot sits below the castle with a rooftop that faces the esplanade. The menu features pizzas, burgers, and a house brewery list. Book a table for sunset and bring a light layer, since the roof can feel breezy. The view is the star on the terrace, as it has the best view of the Edinburgh Castle in town. - The Ship on the Shore in Leith
Seafood lovers head here for oysters, Scottish lobsters, and seafood platters. Outdoor tables line the waterfront when the weather allows. Pair lunch with a walk along the Water of Leith and a visit to the shore. For a special touch, book a window table on cooler days. It is a long standing choice for a summer meal in Leith. - Rocpool Restaurant in Inverness
Rocpool sits beside the River Ness, and serves modern seafood plates with local produce. The kitchen keeps a good list of a la carte menu that offers a variety of seafood freshly caught in Scotland. Ask for a window table for evening light on the water, and make sure to book ahead. You will leave satisfied and ready for a riverside stroll.
Conclusion
You now have a clear plan for summer in Scotland. The season brings long days, mild temperatures, and a wide mix of outdoor and cultural options. You can pair castles with short hikes, add a beach hour, then sit down on a rooftop view or waterfront table. If you would like expert help, consider joining our Amitylux private tour in Scotland. You choose the dates and themes, and our team will build a custom route that fits your pace. Hope to see you this summer in Scotland!
Frequently Asked Questions
What months are summer in Scotland?
Summer runs from June through August. These months bring the longest daylight and the mildest average temperatures.
What is the hottest month in Scotland?
The warmest months are usually July and August in many regions. Average daytime highs are near 18°C.
Is Scotland nice to visit in the summer?
Yes! Long days and steady temperatures make planning simple. You can hike early, enjoy beaches at midday, and eat outdoors in the evening.
Which month is the best to visit Scotland?
Late June and July bring the longest days. August adds major events in Edinburgh, and early September still feels summery while crowds begin to ease.
