Northern Lights

The Northern Lights - also called the Aurora Borealis - are nature’s very own theatrical performance. It may be a surprise to you, but northern Scotland actually lies at the same latitude as Stavanger in Norway and Nunivak Island in Alaska, which means that you’re in with a good chance of spotting the ‘Mirrie Dancers’. In 2024, Expedia experts highlighted the UK as a hotspot destination for spotting the Northern Lights, specificially on the Isle of Skye between October and March!

Northern Lights over Cullen bay

© VisitScotland / Discover Fraserburgh / Fiona McRae

When is the best time to see the Northern lights?

Where can I see the Northern Lights in Scotland?

While the northern reaches of Scotland offer better chances of spotting the ‘Mirrie Dancers’, the aurora can be seen anywhere in Scotland when the right conditions are met and where the light pollution is at a minimum. Here’s a list of some of the best places to see this marvel:

What causes the Aurora Borealis?

Your Northern Lights photos

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