8 Enchanting Sound & Light Shows in Scotland Not to Miss

When: November 2023

Where: Brodie Castle, Forres

Bring the whole family and get involved in this after dark, awe-inspiring walk around the Brodie estate. Follow the lit-up pathways that take you through the Victorian shrubbery, around the outside of the castle and along the magnificent West Avenue. You’ll see this gardens with its many towering trees and plants in a whole new light!

When: Various dates in November and December 2023, and 2-3 January 2024

Where: Edinburgh Castle

Get ready for a world of enchantment, wonder, and magic as Edinburgh Castle comes to life in a display of mystery and illumination in Castle of Light this festive season. This light show features marvellous installations, stunning visuals and a magical experience the whole family can enjoy!

When: 16 November – 30 December 2023

Where: The Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh

Follow a one mile illuminated trail that winds its way through the world-famous Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh for a magical experience after dark. Prepare to be mesmerized by the hypnotic beauty of flickering lights; stroll along a fairy tale avenue of giant glowing butterflies; and complete the night under the stars with spiced cider, mulled wine or hot chocolate. Experience Christmas at the Botanics because it’s certainly beginning to look a lot like Christmas there…

When: 1 – 23 December 2023

Where: Beecraigs Country Park, West Lothian

Set in the magical surrounding of Beecraigs Country Park near Linlithgow, Beecraigs Festive Forest is set to be an atmospheric and mesmerising family experience. Accompanied by panoramic views over the Forth bridges, Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife, Beecraigs offers up an illuminated trail, Santa’s Grotto, festive street food, a fayre and more to enjoy!

When: 5 October - 5 November 2023

Where: Faskally Woods near Pitlochry, Perthshire

Step into Faskally Woods in Pitlochry this autumn and you’ll be treated to an outdoor experience that will set your imagination alight. Enchanted Forest is Scotland’s premier son et lumiere show set against an atmospheric forest backdrop. Follow a number of dimly lit paths, all illuminated with different colours to show you the way while you take in a sweeping light show to the accompaniment of stirring music score. Tickets are flying out the door – make sure you don’t miss the chance to experience this extraordinary event, which is back in action for 2023!

When: 5-7 October 2023

Where: Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway

Celebrate the beautiful light that has drawn artists from all creative fields to this gleaming coastal town during the Kirkcudbright Festival of Light. The festival will also mark the grand opening of a nationally important new art gallery in the town, and will feature glowing light installations and international musical performances, complete with a vibrant events programme at the new gallery. It is set to be a wonderful festival you won’t want to miss!

When: 27 October – 19 November 2023

Where: Gosford House, East Lothian

The family favourite Wondrous Woods has a brand-new home for 2023. Having appeared in the hit TV series Outlander, Gosford House is set to play another starring role with a 1.5 km illuminated trail this autumn. Wander through private woodlands and unseen gardens while seeing Gosford House come to life with its mesmerising light display. Feeling peckish after your walk? Join Woody the Owl for a bite to eat at Woody’s Nest.

When: 30 November - 10 December 2023

Where: Monteviot House, Jedburgh

Head to Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders this winter for a magical illuminated outdoor trail experience. Starting at the Harestanes Visitor Centre and twirling around the historic grounds of Monteviot House, this 1.5km trail encompasses twinkling lights along a beautifully lit route, with a kaleidoscope of colours, patterns, and immersive spectacles, all accompanied by a realm of mesmerising soundscapes. As you venture along the trail, make sure you stop off to enjoy the locally sourced food and drink as well