8 enjoyable things to do in November in Scotland

The fun doesn’t stop in November in Scotland, with plenty of indoor attractions and activities for you to enjoy. Why not visit one of Scotland’s art galleries or museums and observe a variety of sculptures, art and heritage?

We have plenty of quirky collections at a range of museums big and small to discover. Check out the V&A Dundee, The National Museum of Scotland, Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, the refurbished Aberdeen Art Gallery or The Burrell Collection which was awarded The Museum of the Year Award 2023.

Celebrating is something Scots do really well, and if there is one day of the year where you'll hear a lot of noise from us, it's St Andrew's Day. Scots and Scots-at-heart come together to celebrate the patron saint of Scotland and our national day with a holiday and fantastic events, which showcase the very best of Scottish culture.

This important Scottish day of celebration falls on the 30 November and you'll be able to enjoy a varied programme of events and festivals, featuring uniquely Scottish lineups of music, dance, culture and more.

With the smell of coffee and hot chocolate, cosy ambience and the chance of a catch up, this month we’re loving the café scene – ideal for a hot beverage, a spot of gossip and maybe a wee bite to eat. Our cities, towns and islands are filled with lovely spots to visit.

Our Taste Our Best scheme helps you identify the best food and drink businesses. Businesses get this award only if they use quality Scottish ingredients which are fresh, seasonal and local.

Set off from Mallaig on an epic autumnal adventure exploring the hidden gems, bays and rugged coastlines of the Small Isles. With crisp autumnal days and atmospheric weather, it's a great time to explore the islands. The trips are timed with the full moon and new moon which allows for greater tidal ranges, allowing anchorage at points in Eigg, Rum, Canna and Muck. Taking place throughout October and November.

After a day of exploring Scotland’s landscapes and wildlife, relax and unwind in a beautiful log cabin. There are a variety of cabins for you to choose from in a whole host of different locations. Get ready to switch off from reality with family and friends, you can drink hot chocolate till your heart is content and enjoy the bubbles while soaking in the hot tub.

Several distilleries remain open throughout the winter months, so you can discover the processes of making Scotland’s national drink. Enjoy a tour and tasting experience at many distilleries across Scotland. Some of these include Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown and Glenmorangie Distillery in Tain.

Scotland’s cities could offer you the perfect little getaway this November. It's time to put Aberdeen on your list!

The city of Aberdeen sits on the north east coast of Scotland. Aberdeen is famous for its stunning, sparkling, granite buildings and monuments which shimmer in the sunlight and where you can enjoy a beach stroll alongside some serious shopping. 

Perhaps you’ll find yourself speaking a little Doric, the ancient Scottish dialect, which is still spoken here. Fit like? Or, you might get lost in the nooks and crannies of a 12th century castle, or spot a dolphin rise from nearby waters?

Even when the weather isn’t favourable, a day of downhill mountain biking through Scotland’s forests is still a great outing. The best part is, you will get muddy whatever the weather! The 7stanes routes across South Scotland offer custom trails for all levels, as well as bike rental and tuition. Why not try something a bit different this November?