SCOTLAND IN APRIL – HERE’S WHAT TO DO

Scotland can be rather chilly during the month of April, with temperature highs of around 10°C in Eastern, Western and Central Scotland and lows of around 3°C. Whilst parts of Northern Scotland can be even colder, with a high chance of rain. So it’s important to wrap up warm and bring your waterproofs. But despite the weather conditions, Scotland is a great destination in April time. With beautifully lush landscapes and springtime flowers in bloom.

Here are some things you can do in April in Scotland, and read our blog post on ‘The Best Time to Visit Scotland‘ to discover what else there is to do at other times of the year:

April is the perfect time to visit the parks and gardens in Scotland. They will be in full bloom at this time of year. Some of our favorite places to visit include the very beautiful Branklyn Gardens in Perth, Belleisle Gardens and Estate in Ayrshire, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and Dawyck Botanic Garden and Arboretum on the Scottish Borders.

This is one of the biggest Scottish celebrations in the US and Canada, and it’s also celebrated in the birthplace of tartan, Scotland itself. Every April, the Tartan Day Festival takes place at Market Street in Forfar, Angus.

Whilst the weather might feel somewhat nippy, April marks the end of winter and it’s a superb time to go hiking in the Highlands. The Scottish mountains offer some of the most dramatic views in Europe, and springtime has the promise of wonderful greenery and fewer crowds. The walking routes with the most breath-taking vistas include Suilven at Assynt, The Saddle at Kintail, Ben Alligin in Torridon, and The Ring of Steall at Mamores.

Believe it not, Scotland is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Britain. If the weather is mild, enjoy a spring picnic or wrap up and enjoy a seafront stroll. The isolated Seacliff in East Lothian offers spectacular views and beaches of the Moray Firth are the perfect places for dolphin spotting at this time of year.

There are many reasons to see the capital, such as the incredible castle, the amazing gastronomy on offer, the Whiskey Trail, the superb shopping, the endless sights and attractions (including kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura), and excellent nightlife. But in spring, there’s also the draw of the city being one of the driest places to visit. In the last year, Edinburgh had the least rain in April, not only in Scotland but in the rest of the UK too. So if prefer milder weather, Edinburgh makes an ideal city break.

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to castles and forts in this part of the world. From the beautiful city horizon atop the viewpoint of Edinburgh Castle to the magical sunset reflections of the loch surrounding Eilean Donan Castle, there’s so much to be explored for history lovers and sightseeing fans alike. There are some stunning Scottish castles which are actually available to rent. Scotland’s castles are also fantastic for kids, making Scotland the perfect family vacation.

To find out more about staying in a castle or stately home in Scotlandfor your next family/group getaway, call + 44 (0)1835 824 642.