Top Five Things to Do in Scotland This Summer
Looking for something to do this summer in Scotland? Check out our list of top five events and attractions.
The summer months are a great opportunity to get outdoors and make some memories. We’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Scotland this summer if you need some ideas.
From Edinburgh’s Festival Fringe to the 152nd Open, the Highland Games, and more. Read on for our top picks to help you make the most of the season!
1. Edinburgh Festival Fringe - 2nd – 26th August
Held annually in the Scottish capital, The Fringe is a three-week performing arts festival going back to 1947. It started when eight theatre groups chose to perform at the Edinburgh International Festival, despite not being on the list.
Each year, millions of people gather from the arts and media industries to celebrate creativity and culture. Performers from all kinds of groups assemble to share their talent and entertain visitors, including:
- Theatre
- Comedy
- Dance
- Circus
- Cabaret
- Children’s entertainment
- Musicals
- Opera
- Music
- Exhibitions
- Spoken word
With a range of street events taking place across the city, the festival is perfect for everyone in the family. View a list of some of the programmes for the 2024 festival and plan your visit.
Learn more about the Edinburgh Festival Fringe
2. Edinburgh Castle
A breathtaking fortress situated at the top of Castle Hill, Edinburgh Castle is spectacular to visit in the summer. It was built around 1103 AD in the Middle Ages and is the most besieged place in all of Britain.
Steeped in history, it promises a fascinating visit for history buffs, as well as a range of activities and events.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo from 2nd – 24th August is a celebration of music, dance, and Scottish military history. It’s one of the nation’s most famous events and is watched on TV worldwide in over 30 countries.
Up to 1,000 musicians and pipers, singers, and dancers parade the Esplanade. With emotive performances celebrating a historic nation and its culture.
There are 217,000 tickets available for the event each year, though they tend to go fast. Book your tickets now to make sure you don’t miss out!
Learn more about the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
3. The 152nd Open - 14th – 21st July
If you’re partial to a round of golf, the 152nd Open is not to be missed. This year, it will be played at the Royal Troon on Scotland’s west coast, founded in 1878.
This year’s Open Championship will mark the 10th time the tournament has been played at Royal Troon. Renowned as one of the world’s greatest links courses.
The course was expanded to 18 holes ten years after it was originally founded, redesigned by champion golfer James Braid. It later hosted its first Open in 1923.
The eighth hole is renowned for its picturesque views, which is known as the Postage Stamp. It has witnessed several triumphs in history, including Gene Sarazen’s hole-in-one. Previous champions include Bobby Locke, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Todd Hamilton.
You can book tickets for the Open here to reserve your place. While in the area, you can visit the nearby Ayrshire and Arran, with lots to see and do.
Learn more about the 152nd Open
4. The Highland Games – 12th May – 15th September
Ingrained in Scottish culture for hundreds of years, the Highland Games are a huge celebration for Scots. These are one-day events usually hosted in outdoor spaces across the country. From the north of the Highlands, right through to the isle of South Uist, Aberdeenshire, and Peebles.
The Games feature traditional sports including the famous caber toss, tug o’ war, hammer throw, and many more. Performers will also take centre stage with traditional Highland dancing and music. There’s also lots of food and craft stalls and games, with something for all the family.
The Highland Games have become so popular over time that they now take place in other countries. America adopted the tradition in 1836, while the likes of Canada, Norway, New Zealand, and even Brazil now celebrate the games.
In Scotland, the season normally begins in May with the Gourock Highland Games. Followed by peak season in July and August and ending in September. Throughout the busy period, there are over 30 events each month, presenting plenty of chances to join in on the fun!
You can view a list of Highland Games by location via the Visit Scotland website to find one near you.
Learn more about the Highland Games
5. Cairngorms National Park
If busy festivals aren’t your thing, you’ll love reconnecting with nature at Cairngorms National Park. Located between Perth and Inverness, the park spans 4,528 square kilometres in total. Comprising mountains, forests, rivers, lochs, and wildlife habitats.
Choose from hundreds of walking trails, where you’ll hopefully be able to soak up some Scottish sunshine. Popular walks include the Glenlivet Estate, Wildcat Trail, Speyside Way, Munros and many more. Ranger-led walks are also available to help you make the most of the stunning views.
Other activities available at the park include:
- Dark sky experiences and stargazing
- Horse riding and pony trekking
- Watersports
- Mountain biking and cycling
- The Malt Whisky Trail
There are also a range of museums and art venues in Cairngorms if you want to dive deeper into Scottish history and culture.
Learn more about Cairngorms National Park
Get ready for summer with Macklin Motors
If you plan on taking your car further afield this summer, let us help you prepare. At Macklin Motors, we offer a range of summer check packages to help make sure your car is road trip ready.
Whether it’s an air con service, detox, or a combination, our checks allow you to take on those extra miles with extra peace of mind. Starting from just £49.99, our expert technicians will give your car the attention it needs before hitting the road.
They will top up all your key fluids, and check key components like windscreen wipers, lights, steering, brakes and more. At the end, you’ll get a comprehensive vehicle report letting you know about any potential issues.
Explore our summer check packages available now or get in touch with our friendly team. Getting ready to hit the road? Read our handy article on preparing for your summer road trip.