Lunch break, walking the Scottish hills in Spring
General Style Tips
- As with most of the UK smart casual works everywhere.
- The winds can be strong and unforgiving so forgo your umbrella in favor of a waterproof jacket with hood. It will look far more refined than fighting a battle to stop your umbrella turning inside out.
- Trousers will carry you through anywhere apart from perhaps Hogmanay 31 December, which is a big event in Scotland and a time to dress up and party. It is a far bigger deal here than Christmas.
- If you enjoy walking this is definitely the country to bring your walking boots and all-weather gear and soak up the scenery.
- If you love your jeans then you will find these are acceptable everywhere although for smarter restaurants you may want to opt for black jeans or even pants.
- From mid-May, June, July, August to early September the Scottish midges are out and about feasting on any exposed flesh. Cover up with long pants, long-sleeved shirts and arm yourself with plenty of insect/mosquito repellent.
- Be sure to keep room in your bag for some great Scottish souvenirs; whisky, cashmere and shortbread to name just a few.
- You can be sure of a warm welcome and friendly people wherever you go. We have stayed at Knockderry House, a really smart country house hotel overlooking Loch Long and not far from Loch Lomond. The staff are lovely and there are some great walks to do directly from the hotel.
- Also see What to Wear in United Kingdom
Pack for the Weather
- If you are traveling to the Scottish highlands, Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, The Isles then be sure to pack for all seasons – you are very likely to see them all in one day. Rain, wind, sunshine and even snow.
- For the cooler months November, December, January, February, March and April have a warm waterproof coat or jacket, scarf and gloves and either ear muffs or warm hat.
- For the really cold months of December – March be sure to have waterproof boots with non slip soles, that can cope with snow and rain.
- Look out for biting insects – from around May to August swarms of midges can be unbearable and you are very likely to be bitten, although this is very uncomfortable rather than dangerous. Wear long pants and sleeves and pack plenty of repellent.
- From late spring to Fall ticks are prevalent in woodland and heath areas – and these can spread disease including Lyme disease. Hikers and campers are most at risk, so wear long, loose clothes and tuck pants into your socks. Clothes can also be proofed with suitable repellent beforehand. Check your skin each day and if you are bitten remove the tick (you need a special tick removal tool, don't just pull it out) as soon as possible and/or seek medical help.
- We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android