The Northern Lights in Scotland

Shetland 

Often referred to by locals as the ‘Mirrie Dancers’, Shetland is the closest part of Scotland to the Arctic Circle. Key locations including Eshaness, the mainland north coast or anywhere with a clear northern horizon offer the chance to see the Northern Lights in all their glory.

Orkney 

Thanks to its very dark skies and low light pollution, the aurora is much easier to spot in Orkney with the naked eye. Being by the sea helps offer uninterrupted views and strong displays of colour with some of the best sightings recorded in Birsay, Yesnaby, and the west mainland coast.

Lewis and Harris, Outer Hebrides 

Lewis and Harris sit on the far north of Scotland and offer clear horizons, which is essential when it comes to the best sightings of the Aurora Borealis. Both islands’ white-sand beaches, including Luskentyre, Traigh Mhor and Uig Sands create spectacular viewing and photography conditions at night.

Isle of Skye

Many of Skye's viewpoints face north over the sea with coastal headlands giving wide, unobstructed views. Top locations include Neist Point, Staffin Bay and the Trotternish peninsula to see this natural phenomenon.

Edinburgh 

If an aurora is strong, it can occasionally be seen in the capital. Some of the best vantage points in Edinburgh include Calton Hill, Blackford Hill and Arthur’s Seat.

Caithness & the North Coast 500 

Unlike Orkney, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides, you can drive directly to excellent aurora locations without having to take the ferry. This makes Caithness and the NC500 perfect for last-minute aurora chasing if you’re staying in the Highlands. Places like Dunnet Head and Duncansby Head are among the most northerly points in the UK to catch a glimpse of them.

Wester Ross and Applecross 

Wester Ross and Applecross are less busy than Skye and the NC500, making it one of the least populated areas in Scotland. Atlantic winds often clear cloud faster which can make night skies ideal for seeing subtle aurora colours.

Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park often enjoys drier, clearer weather and is one of the best mainland options for witnessing the Northern Lights. The aurora can be visible during moderate to strong solar activity and is easily accessible by car or public transport.

Galloway Forest Park 

Galloway Forest Park was the UK’s first Dark Sky Park and is carefully managed to limit artificial lighting, something few places can guarantee. It offers the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis this far south of Scotland.

Why are the Northern Lights called the Aurora Borealis? 

They are named after Aurora (the Roman goddess of dawn), and Boreas, (the Greek god of the north wind). 

What causes the Northern Lights? 

This amazing spectacle is caused by solar storms releasing particles into the sun. When these particles hit the Earth's magnetic field, they interact with oxygen and nitrogen in the atmosphere, producing this extraordinary light. 

What colours can the Northern Lights be? 

Aurorae come in all colours, shapes and patterns, setting the night sky with rainbows of light. The variations in colour depend on the type of gas particles that are colliding. You’re likely to see yellowish-greens, blues, purples, oranges and fiery reds. 

When is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights? 

October to March. During these months, nights are long and dark and promise strong solar activity. Just make sure there is no rainfall and skies are clear.

What time of night are they most visible? 

Usually between 9pm to 2am. Activity can happen earlier or later, but this window is most reliable.