Autumn breaks

September 

September is the sweet spot between summer and autumn, offering mild temperatures, long daylight hours and quieter attractions. Plan a break to Wigtown and Stranraer in Dumfries & Galloway, where culture, coastline and food come together beautifully. Known as Scotland’s National Book Town, Wigtown is a haven for readers, with independent bookshops lining its streets and a rich literary heritage. Nearby Stranraer sits on the shores of Loch Ryan, acting as a gateway to coastal walks, seafood experiences and cycling routes across the Rhins of Galloway.  

Keep reading to find more destinations to visit in September

November 

As autumn gently gives way to winter, November offers calm, atmospheric breaks with a distinctly Scottish character. Head to Edinburgh for a city escape that blends history, culture and seasonal celebrations. Spend your days exploring worldclass museums and galleries, strolling through historic streets, or warming up in traditional pubs. November is also when Scotland celebrates its patron saint, St Andrew, making the capital a fantastic base for experiencing Scottish culture, music and storytelling at its most authentic. class museums and galleries, strolling through historic streets, or warming up in traditional pubs. November is also when Scotland celebrates its patron saint 

Keep reading to find more destinations to visit in November

Braemar Gathering: 5 September – One of the world’s most famous Highland games, featuring traditional heavy events, Highland dancing and piping, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cairngorms and rich Scottish heritage.  

Wigtown Book Festival: 25 September - 5 October – Celebrate books, ideas and conversation at this much-loved literary festival, with author talks, workshops and events taking place across Scotland’s National Book Town. loved literary festival, with author talks, workshops and events taking place across Scotland’s National Book Town.  

The Enchanted Forest: 8 October - 8 November – Step into a mesmerising nighttime woodland experience in Perthshire, where creative light, sound and storytelling transform the forest into an unforgettable autumn spectacle.  

Royal National Mòd: 9 - 17 October – Scotland’s premier Gaelic cultural event, celebrating Gaelic language, music, song and dance with concerts, competitions and community events. This year the host location is Glasgow.

Scottish International Storytelling Festival: late October - early November – Immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich storytelling tradition through performances, workshops and talks that bring myths, legends and contemporary stories to life.  

St Andrew’s Day: 30 November – Celebrate Scotland’s national day with music, dance, food and cultural events across the country, marking the end of autumn with a true showcase of Scottish spirit.