United Kingdom, Europe
Scottish Highlands in September
Quieter roads after schools go back, Braemar Gathering early in the month, fewer midges by mid month.
The straight answer
September is one of the best months of the year to visit Scottish Highlands. Quieter roads after schools go back, Braemar Gathering early in the month, fewer midges by mid month.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 60F (16C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What September is like in Scottish Highlands
September is one of the best months. Highs near 60F (16C), quieter roads once schools go back, and fewer midges by mid month. The Braemar Gathering, the most famous Highland Games, is held on the first Saturday. Prices ease and everything is still open, including the Jacobite steam train.
This month suits couples, walkers, photographers, and homeschool families. It is a great time for a road trip to Skye and Glencoe, with open doors and easier bookings. If you want lower prices and fall color, October is good too, but days get short quickly.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about Scottish Highlands this month.
Braemar Gathering
On the first Saturday of September, Braemar hosts the most famous Highland Games, often attended by the royal family. Book early.
Fewer midges
By mid September, the midges ease off. Walks and picnics are more pleasant.
Quieter Skye
With schools back, the island's roads and viewpoints are calmer.
What to pack for September
- A waterproof jacket
- Warm layers for cool evenings
- Waterproof walking boots
- Midge repellent for early in the month
Our timing tip
Book Braemar Gathering tickets and nearby rooms early, and plan Skye for mid to late September.
Book Scottish Highlands for September.
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- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Scottish HighlandsOpens a hotel search for Scottish Highlands in September, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Scottish HighlandsWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Scottish HighlandsTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Scottish Highlands for September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in September
Highland Games season
May through September
Caber tossing, piping, and dancing in towns across the Highlands.
Braemar Gathering
The first Saturday of September
The most famous Highland Games, often attended by the royal family.
Things to do in Scottish Highlands
Glencoe
Scotland's most famous glen, with walks from easy to serious. The drive through it on the A82 is spectacular on its own.
Isle of Skye
Book accommodation months ahead for summer. The Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools are busiest from 10am to 4pm.
Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
The castle ruins on the loch shore are managed by Historic Environment Scotland. Go at opening or late afternoon.
Cairngorms National Park
The UK's largest national park, with forests, mountains, reindeer, and ski areas.
Nevis Range and Ben Nevis
The gondola near Fort William runs to 650 meters for views and mountain biking. Ben Nevis itself is a long day hike.
Eilean Donan Castle
One of the most photographed castles in Scotland, on an island where three sea lochs meet. Seasonal hours.
Beat the crowds
- Visit Skye and Glencoe in May, June, or September rather than July and August, and hit the famous stops before 9am or after 5pm.
- Explore quieter alternatives like the Isle of Mull, Applecross, or Assynt instead of only the Skye headline sights.
- Book accommodation on Skye and along the North Coast 500 route months ahead for summer; last-minute rooms are scarce.
- Use passing places correctly on single-track roads, and give yourself extra time. Travel times are longer than the map suggests.
Know before you go
- Many hotels, B&Bs, cafes, and attractions in remote areas close from roughly November to March. Check before booking a winter road trip.
- The Jacobite steam train runs only in the warmer months, roughly spring to fall.
- Midges are active from late May to September, worst in July and August on the west coast in still, damp weather. Repellent and head nets help.
- Winter storms can close ferries to the islands and mountain roads. Build slack into winter itineraries.
Scottish Highlands in September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit Scottish Highlands?
September is one of the best months of the year to visit Scottish Highlands. Quieter roads after schools go back, Braemar Gathering early in the month, fewer midges by mid month.
What is the weather like in Scottish Highlands in September?
Mild, highs near 60F (16C).
Is Scottish Highlands crowded in September?
Crowds in Scottish Highlands are moderate in September; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Scottish Highlands in September?
Highland Games season (may through september); Braemar Gathering (the first saturday of september).
Keep planning Scottish Highlands.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in September
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