Enough about sun-drenched beaches and clear blue skies. It’s time you experienced the full gloom of travel. From ancient castles to Tolkienesque landscapes, Scotland and Ireland should be on your list. The weather might be bad, but you’ll have the best time.
Stunning Scotland
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is one of the most incredible cities in the world, famed for majestic buildings like the Edinburgh Castle in the heart of the city. The castle stands at the top of the Royal Mile, one of the city’s most iconic streets along with the colorful Victoria Street, located a short walk from the castle. At the bottom of Victoria Street, you’ll find Grassmarket, a bustling square filled with cozy pubs.
Walking down the Royal Mile and exploring the narrow lanes veining off to each side, it’s easy to imagine why Edinburgh has been a haven for writers, with the likes of Robert Burns, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and J. K. Rowling. Make sure to stop at the Writers’ Museum in one of the courtyards just off the Royal Mile.
At the end of the Royal Mile, you’ll find the Holyrood Palace (the King’s official residence in Edinburgh), the modern Scottish Parliament, and Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano offering scenic hiking trails and sweeping views of the city.
Other unmissable sights include the Scottish National Gallery, which not only houses famous paintings like Henry Raeburn’s “The Skating Minister,” but is also free to visit, like most attractions in Scotland and the UK. Looking for the perfect postcard picture? Go to Dean Village and Circus Lane, some of the most picturesque spots in the city.
Glasgow
If you’re looking for another culture fix, welcoming Glasgow, Scotland’s capital and one of the world’s friendliest cities, is the word. The West End harbors Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to everything from dinosaur skeletons to WWII planes to Salvador Dalí’s striking “Christ of St John of the Cross.”
A short walk north, Glasgow Botanic Gardens, with its magnificent Kibble Palace greenhouse, invites you for a stroll. Both are free to visit. West End is also known for its relaxed vibe. Swing over to the cobbled Ashton Lane, where you’ll find lively bars, restaurants, and thrift stores.
And if you find yourself on the city’s east side, visit the Glasgow Necropolis, an eerily beautiful Victorian cemetery. Across the street, the medieval Glasgow Cathedral beckons visitors with fine post-war collections of stained glass windows. Both attractions are free to visit.
As a UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow is also buzzing with places to enjoy live music, from legendary venues like Barrowland Ballroom to cozy pubs, where folk music and dance are not to be missed. Famous artists such as Simple Minds, Belle and Sebastian, and Primal Scream all have their roots in Glasgow.
The Scottish Highlands
We could talk about Edinburgh and Glasgow until the hairy cows come home, but no visit to Scotland is complete without exploring the Scottish Highlands. While you’re driving past lochs (lakes) and through glens (valleys), you’ll learn about the history, stories, myths, and natural wonders of this region.
Glencoe one of the most famous sights in the Highlands, is a valley formed by glaciers and volcanic eruptions, making it a paradise for hikers, skiers, and water sport enthusiasts. James Bond fans will get their geek on in Glencoe, as it was the filming location for “Skyfall.” Numerous movie classics such as “Trainspotting,” “Braveheart,” and, of course, the Harry Potter saga are set in the Highlands.
Another top sight is Loch Ness, home of Scotland’s most famous citizen, Nessie. The lake holds more water than all of the lakes in Wales and England. Plus, it’s fantastic for cycling, canoeing, and music nerds. Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page used to own the mysterious Boleskine House near the lake, which occultist Aleister Crowley had previously owned. Remember Ozzy Osbourne’s 80s song “Mr. Crowley?”
On Scotland’s west coast, the otherworldly Isle of Skye awaits. The island is teeming with natural wonders, from the aptly named Fairy Pools to the Kilt Rock waterfalls gushing down cliffs into the sea to the Old Man of Storr rock formation set against wavy hills.
The weather in Scotland
Spring is mild, with occasional rains, offering dazzling displays of blooming trees and lush landscapes. Summer is warm but rarely breaches 68°F (20°C). Rainy mornings often clear up during the day. Fall paints Scotland in fiery colors, a real treat for photographers. The weather is cool, and chances of rain are high. Winter, particularly December, sees the most rain, and cold air will shake you to your bones. The Scottish Highlands get proper snow, ideal for snow sports enthusiasts.
Incredible Ireland
Dublin
When visiting Ireland, your first stop will undoubtedly be Dublin. Visit the Old Library at Trinity College, one of the world’s most stunning libraries, and admire the Book of Kells, a beautifully ornamented book dating back 1,200 years. If you’re looking for a scenic stroll, Phoenix Park is unmissable. It’s the largest enclosed park of all European capitals.
Music lovers should check out the Irish Rock’ n’ Roll Museum, which is full of memorabilia from bands like U2 and Thin Lizzy. After a day of exploring, nothing beats having a pint in one of Dublin’s many iconic Temple Bar neighborhood pubs.
East Ireland’s ancient sites
A short drive south of Dublin lies the enchanting Powerscourt Estate. Delight in its immaculate gardens, ornamental lakes, and secret hollows. To the southwest, the medieval masterpiece of the Rock of Cashel stands tall, the seat of high kings in medieval times. About a 50-minute drive north of Dublin, you will find Newgrange, a prehistoric tomb passage older than Stonehenge.
West Ireland’s natural wonders
To discover magnificently dramatic nature, head to Ireland’s west coast to the country’s most iconic sight, the Cliffs of Moher, also known as the “Cliffs of Insanity.” Walking along the cliffs is the quintessential Irish experience.
The mysterious Aran Islands off the coast abound in natural beauty and ancient sites. If you’ve ever watched “The Banshees of Inisherin,” these landscapes will undoubtedly be familiar. Also unmissable is the town of Galway along the coast to the south. Known as the bohemian soul of Ireland, it’s a must when you’re after fantastic food and nightlife.
Further south, Charlie Chaplin’s favorite vacation spot awaits along the Ring of Kerry, a scenic route where rolling hills and serene lakes abound. This region also holds great significance in music, as it inspired Dave Grohl to continue with music and start the Foo Fighters after Kurt Cobain passed away.
Northern Ireland
Head to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, and visit Titanic Belfast, one of the top-rated museums worldwide, standing where the Titanic was built over a hundred years ago. Walk along the poignant Peace Wall, built to deter violence caused by the “Troubles,” a 30-year-long conflict between the Protestant royalists, who wanted to be part of the UK, and the Catholic nationalists, who wanted Northern Ireland to be part of the Republic of Ireland. Make sure to stop at St George’s Market, one of the oldest attractions in the UK, for a lively atmosphere and unique souvenirs.
Then go for an escape to the countryside, navigate past rolling hills and quaint villages to the avenue of beech trees known as the Dark Hedges. Fans of the TV series “Game of Thrones” are sure to recognize it. Continue north to the dramatic coast and hop around the rock formations of Giants Causeway, one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic natural sights.
The weather in Ireland
Spring is mild, and rain showers are frequent, which makes the countryside particularly lush. Summer brings warmer temperatures, usually somewhere between 59°F and 68°F (15°C and 20°C). Longer dry spells and occasional rain make it an excellent time for outdoor activities. Fall cools down and brings more rain, but the changing leaves make the landscapes a treat for photographers. Winter is the coldest season, with short days and temperatures mostly between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). The rain is frequent, and it can snow in mountainous regions.
So, where are you off to next: Scotland or Ireland? You’re in for a great time, even if the weather looks gloomy!
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