Christmas & winter breaks

Explore the sights, sounds and marvels of Scotland this winter with a variety of passes, offers and experiences that will take you around the country without breaking the bank.

• ScotRail – take part in the Kids for a Quid offer where up to four children can travel for £1 when one full price adult or concession ticket is purchased.
• Hostelling Scotland – treat yourself to a ‘buy 2 nights get 1 free’ offer from 1 November to 31 March at all open hostels. You can also save 20% on stays at the Top 10 Walking Hostels (Aviemore, Braemar, Cairngorm Lodge, Crianlarich, Gairloch Sands, Glencoe, Glen Nevis, Loch Ossian, Torridon and Ullapool).
• Historic Environment Scotland Days Out – enjoy child tickets for just £1 at a range of attractions when one full price adult or concession ticket is purchased.
  Please book online directly with the attraction to redeem and use the code ‘VSKIDS4AQUID’. Offer valid from 1 October 2024 until 31 March 2025.
• Scotland Gifts Local - if you're not quite sure what to gift your loved ones this Christmas, why not put a Scottish twist on it with a Scotland Gifts Local gift card? With over 8,000 businesses and shops to browse, they're bound to find something they'll love.

Although glistening snow-capped mountain tops, frozen lochs and frost-covered trees create a dreamy winter landscape, sometimes our weather just doesn’t want to play ball! We all love a bit of snow so we can get out on the slopes, enjoy wintery family walks and even a snowball fight or two, but Scotland’s changing climate can mean that the snow turns to rain or sleet quite quickly. However, Scotland’s weather can create some atmospheric settings; cosy up with dram whilst it’s drizzling outside, or embrace the weather and the elements and get outdoors anyway with a moody wander or a warming coffee in a lochside café.

Whatever the weather, it won’t stop you from enjoying a winter break in Scotland, with our magical events, alternative winter activities and experiences, cosy accommodation and more, you’ve got a memorable trip waiting for you.

What attractions are open?

Scotland has plenty of attractions open all year round which are often quieter in the autumn and winter months. There are some that close from November to March, so it’s best to check directly for up-to-date information.

Does it snow in winter in Scotland?

Yes, but maybe not as often as you think. On average, it snows for around 20 days per year, but it can depend  where you’re staying. Let’s be honest, Scotland’s climate isn’t a stranger to slush and rain in winter, but all you need is a thick woolly jumper, a mug of hot chocolate and some boots or wellies and you’re good to go!

For our coastal locations, it has to be a severe snow to catch, while in the Cairngorms, you can still find snow in June! It certainly shouldn’t stop you travelling around, but it’s good to be prepared and check the forecast.

Are you planning to head into the Scottish hills this winter? Winter can offer some incredible experiences but it’s important to stay safe especially with the more wintry conditions during the season. Whether you’re a beginner heading out for the first time or have experience of the hills during winter and are looking for a refresher of your skills and knowledge, you can easily find all the information you need.

Mountaineering Scotland's #ThinkWINTER

Check mountain weather reports

Check avalanche forecasts 

Scottish Mountain Rescue teams respond to call outs and it's important to heed their advice.

Find out more about Scottish Mountain Rescue

If you need emergency assistance, follow the guidance from Scottish Mountain Rescue and remember to dial 999 (or 112) and ask for Police and then Mountain Rescue