9 Reasons Why Not To Visit Scotland In Summer

Is Scotland Worth Visiting for A Summer Family Vacation?

Scotland may have picture-perfect mountains, ancient castles, highland cows, and magical landscapes, but is it the ideal destination for your family’s next summer trip?

We’ve lived in Scotland for over a decade, and while many travellers cannot get enough of it (and we love it too!), there are a few reasons why you might not want to visit Scotland in the summer.

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Visiting Scotland In Summer

➡️ Expect crowds
➡️ Costly Accommodation
➡️ Midges
✅ Stunning Landscapes + Long Sunny Days

9 Reasons Why Not To Visit Scotland In Summer

Scotland is undoubtedly a worthy bucket list destination if only for its history, scenery, coastline and castles. While families come all year round, summer may seem like the ideal time to visit. However, we have an insight into things to consider before visiting Scotland in the summer.

1. Summer Is Not The Driest Season In Scotland

Scotland is well known for its unpredictable weather, and summer is no different! It experiences year-round rainfall, and while it may not always be welcome, it’s why vast areas of the countryside are beautiful and vibrantly green.

Summer is not Scotland’s wettest season, but it is certainly not the driest! To avoid dampening your outdoor plans, it is a good idea to pack your raincoat or umbrella.

Of course, some parts of Scotland experience more rain than others. While the West Coast is one of the wettest parts of Europe, eastern and central areas are usually much drier. For the lowest chance of rain, consider April and May, especially if you are travelling with kids.

Family Tip: Pack a waterproof coat and wellies and embrace the rain!

A family walking on a path towards iconic green hills in Scotland in summer. r

2. Challenging Terrain for Children

Scotland is unquestionably a hiker’s paradise, and many of its most popular attractions are in remote areas that require a trek over challenging terrain.

If you have young kids or family members who aren’t used to long walks or hikes, getting to Scotland’s iconic sites, such as the Isle of Skye, Ben Nevis, or even certain castles, can prove challenging. This is especially true in Summer, when the heat and crowds can turn what was intended to be a fun family adventure into a tiring ordeal.

Family Tip: Visit less touristy areas with your families to explore at your own pace, away from crowds.

3. High Travel Costs

With significantly higher prices than other seasons, summer can make Scotland an expensive destination. The costs of accommodation, food, and attractions quickly add up, making family trips less budget friendly.

While cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow attract vast numbers of visitors, finding accommodation on a budget during the summer season can be challenging. Instead, consider booking self-catering accommodation in less expensive destinations such as Stirling. Visiting in late spring or early autumn means less competition for lodgings, resulting in lower prices.

Basing yourself in more affordable areas and travelling into the major cities is another alternative to keep costs down.

Family Tip: Look for budget-friendly self-catering accommodation.

Two silver horse head statues in a park worth visiting in Scotland. — Popular Scottish attractions are busy in Summer

4. Summer Crowds

Almost half of Scotland’s visitors travel in the summer, making it the peak tourist season.

Summer coincides with the school holidays and brings warm weather, festivals and long daylight hours, all of which combine to make some family-friendly destinations, like Glenfinnan Viaduct or the Isle of Skye, feel crowded.

Popular attractions can become overwhelmed in Summer, with long queues and many visitors. This can make it challenging to appreciate Scotland’s natural beauty and enjoy historical sites.

Family Tip: Visit popular sights when less crowded, typically early in the morning or late in the day.

5. Driving Can Be Problematic

Renting a car and embarking on a road trip with your kids is a great way to get out of the cities and to explore Scotland properly. However, navigating the country’s narrow, winding roads and increased summer traffic can be challenging.

Popular tourist routes on the Isle of Skye and the North Coast 500 often experience road blockages and limited parking, especially during peak season. On the other hand, larger roads, such as between Edinburgh and Inverness, offer many places to stop, but you should still allow extra time when driving in Scotland.

While Scotland’s public transport network is extensive, buses and trains are often crowded in peak season, making travel less comfortable. It may be more convenient to hire a car.

Family Tip: Hire a small car to make travelling on narrow roads easier.

Green bridge over a river lined with green trees. A popular village in Scotland worth visiting in summer.

6. Limited Family-Friendly Entertainment Options

Scotland offers an excellent range of outdoor activities in beautiful landscapes, with many historical sites to visit. However, there are not many day attractions aimed at entertaining younger children or teens.

Unlike other European destinations, Scotland lacks amusement parks and themed attractions. Scotland might not be the best choice if your family needs more than scenic views to stay engaged.

Family Tip: Plan your vacation activities with your kids before arriving in Scotland so they know what to expect.

7. Long Hours Of Daylight

One of the top reasons to visit Scotland in the summer is the long summer days. Some areas experience 18 hours of daylight, making exploring possible late into the night.

This can be a great bonus for families with teenagers, whereas young kids may find it tiring. If your children expect it to be dark at bedtime, your trip could become stressful if you visit in summer.

Family Tip: Travel with a blackout curtain for your bedroom window to ensure the whole family gets a good night’s sleep.

8. Midge Season

Midges are Scotland’s most infamous pest, causing severe discomfort to thousands of tourists every year. These tiny, biting insects swarm from late spring right through the summer and are particularly prevalent in the wetter regions of Scotland and around many inland lochs.

They can cause havoc for unprepared families trying to enjoy outdoor activities. Midges love warm, damp conditions, especially at dawn and dusk, making for a less-than-pleasant experience.

While midges are not attracted to everyone, they can seriously dampen your adventures in summer.

Family Tip: Wear ‘Smidge’ repellent and protective nets during the summer.

Large crowd of tourists on the streets of a festival in summer in Edinburgh.

9. Festival Frenzy in Scottish Cities

Scotland’s summer festivals, such as the famous Edinburgh Fringe, are extremely popular and attract many tourists.

Not only do festivals result in large crowds, but they also increase hotel prices and overwhelm quiet areas. While some families may enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, for others, it may distract from their overall experience of Scotland.

Family Tip: Embrace the festivities, but know when to step away to decompress if it becomes overwhelming for your family.

Visiting Scotland Not In Summer

There’s no denying that Scotland is a stunning destination any time of year. Despite being the most popular, summer may not always be the ideal time to visit.

If you’re looking for a quieter, more affordable, and less crowded experience, consider a family trip outside of the summer months. Spring, autumn, and winter in Scotland offer plenty of charm and the same perks – just with fewer people.

While summer is the warmest season, spring is the sunniest, making it a great alternative time to visit Scotland with kids.

Ruined castle in Scotland surrounded by green grass and a large loch best visited in summer.

Is It Worth Visiting Scotland In the Summer With Kids?

With all of the above said, Summer may still be the best time to visit Scotland with kids; it is the warmest season, with outdoor activities geared towards families. It also coincides with school holidays worldwide, meaning it can be easier (but more expensive!) to travel.

While summer is peak season, crowded attractions, inflated costs and midges can negatively impact your experience. If this is not your thing, choose less popular regions to explore and pick attractions where you can enjoy beautiful scenery without the crowds in the summer.

With some thoughtful planning, Scotland is well worth visiting in the summer or, indeed, in any season!

Final Thoughts | Why Not To Visit Scotland in Summer

Scotland is a beautiful, culturally rich country that is safe to visit all year round. There are outdoor family activities and many cultural places to visit.

That said, with unpredictable weather, high travel costs, and pesky midges, it may be worth considering visiting outside of peak season. Whenever you choose to come, with a little preparation, you’ll be guaranteed an amazing time in one of the world’s friendliest countries.