Scotland, bring a jacket and a sense of adventure
Comedian Bill Bailey once said that ‘You have to go to Scotland at all times of the year – in order to appreciate the times when the sun does come out.” Luckily, the Scots have a word, Coorie, which means embracing the natural beauty and sometimes inclement weathers that make Scotland such a memorable country to visit.
Similar to the Scandinavian Hygge, Coorie is a lifestyle which embraces the outdoors, nature and place. Think loch swimming, hiking in rugged windswept locations followed by taking a wild sauna or cosying into a local pub with a fire and warm comforting food, with a treat of an aged whisky to help warm the bones.
Scotland in the cooler months can be a treat for the senses if you are willing to rug up with layers, enjoy nature and be amazed by the joy that can be found in embracing the spirit of Coorie. You’ll also miss the tourist crowds and get to feel like a local, even if you are dressed in many more layers. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider a visit to Scotland in the traditionally off-peak months.
Nature, Dark nights & warm places
With 43 national parks a visit to Scotland can act as a balm to rejuvenate a weary soul. A highlight in the cooler months is Cairngorms national park. With ancient ruins, pristine lochs, rugged mountain landscapes, walking trails and distilleries you can find plenty to get into the Coorie spirit here. With only approx. 7 hours of daylight when close to the Northern hemisphere Winter Solstice, it is a perfect place to take in some star gazing.
After being out in nature, the best course of action to get comfy is to head to one of Scotland’s close to 6000 pubs or 150 whisky distilleries, some of which can be found close to the Cairngorms. Check out the malt whisky trail info and choose your favourite.
Cities
From quaint tearooms in historic buildings and laneways and tunnels, visitors during the cooler months can snuggle in and find a log fire and relax to browse books, music or contemplate artworks in many of the main cities in Scotland. Here are a small selection of recommended spots for doing just that, but sometimes taking a jacket and exploring the historic streets you will discover your own gem and create your own story.
Edinburgh – The Beach House, located on the promenade at Portobello, offers stunning sea views and locally sourced food to help the glow of the after cold water therapy.
Glasgow – Òran Mór (Gaelic for “Big Song”), a welcoming pub housed in a former church, right next to the beautiful Glasgow Botanic Gardens, makes a great pit stop on a chilly day. Visitors can relax and eat & drink in this charming space while taking in the Robert Burns-inspired paintings.
Inverness – Leakey’s, Scotland’s largest second-hand bookshop, is a booklover’s dream. It’s located in a former Gaelic church – the pulpit and stained-glass windows can still be seen– and houses thousands of books on a huge range of subjects, all stacked and piled around a log-burning hearth.
Stirling – Visitors curious enough to search the winding back streets at the base of the castle hill in Stirling’s historic Old Town will be rewarded with excellent coffee and sweet treats at Unorthodox Roasters. And afterwards, next door, Europa Music, Scotland’s largest vinyl record store, will beckon them in for a browse
Autumn & winter festivals
The world stone skimming championship takes place in September 2025 and registration starts in Spring 2025, so get practicing and plan your visit around winning a world championship. Here is a video of what to look forward to, including rain.
Hogmanay or to the rest of the world New Years Eve is a big deal in Scotland. It’s a tradition that reaches back to the days of the Vikings in celebration of the Winter Solstice. One of the biggest events will be held against the backdrop of Edinburgh castle. Celebrate with 45,000 others and watch unforgettable fireworks, listen to live music and eat local street food and bring in the New Year in style by attending the Edinburgh Hogmanay street party.
January 25th marks the birthdate of poet Robert Burns and celebrations in his honour, called Burns supper are held across Scotland. Eating Haggis, drinking whisky, reciting Burns’ poetry and singing are all de riguer at these events. There are 250 Burns clubs worldwide – find your nearest one here: www.rbwf.org.uk
There’s plenty to do in Scotland during the colder months so engage your sense of adventure and explore the spirit of Coorie, just don’t forget to pack a warm waterproof jacket.
Find more information on a holiday in Scotland here
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