Northern Lights in Scotland: where and when to see them

See some Northern Lights in Scotland It's possible to see them without going all the way to Norway. The north of the country is actually at the same latitude as southern Scandinavia, and its skies are among the darkest in Europe. Based in Edinburgh since 2012, we'll tell you where and when to observe them, and how to maximize your chances.

Can you really see the Northern Lights in Scotland?

Yes, and more often than you might think. Auroras appear when particles from the Sun encounter the Earth's atmosphere. The further north you go, the more frequent the phenomenon becomes.

Shetland, Orkney, and the northern Highlands coast are therefore the best positioned. During the strongest solar storms, such as in May 2024, however, the auroras can be seen as far away as Edinburgh and even in the south of the UK.

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Your ideal coastal spot?

Cliffs and sweeping panoramasBeaches, harbors and small villages

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On foot along a pathBy car with several stops

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Need a break?

A beautiful viewpointA cafe or pub by the water

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What appeals to you most?

The wild sideThe atmosphere of the villages

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The perfect end to the day?

A sunsetA good local dinner

The spectacle, however, remains unpredictable. It depends on both solar activity and local weather. Therefore, no trip can guarantee an aurora, but a well-located stay significantly increases your chances.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Scotland?

The season runs from September to March. From mid-October to mid-March, the nights are longest, allowing for more hours of darkness to observe the sky. The weeks around the equinoxes, at the end of September and the end of March, are also known to be the most active.

In summer, however, it is almost never completely dark in northern Scotland. The Northern Lights are therefore virtually invisible.

During the night, the best time slot is generally between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m., according to VisitScotland. Also, if possible, choose a period close to the new moon: a moonless sky makes the colours more visible.

The best places to see the Northern Lights in Scotland

The Shetland

This is the part of Scotland closest to the Arctic Circle. Locals even call the Northern Lights "Mirrie Dancers." The cliffs of Eshaness and the north coast of the mainland offer vast, lightless horizons.

The Orkneys

Very flat and sparsely lit, the Orkney Islands offer a vast panorama of the northern sky. Birsay and the cliffs of Yesnaby are among the most popular sites. Furthermore, the archipelago is easily accessible by ferry from the northern Highlands coast.

The Caithness and the north coast

Dunnet Head is the northernmost point of the island of Great Britain. Along with Duncansby Head, near John o' Groats, it's one of the best spots accessible by car. These two headlands are on our route North Coast 500 guide.

The Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides

On Skye, the coasts of the Trotternish peninsula, such as Staffin Bay, face north. Further along, Lewis and Harris offer vast beaches and very little artificial light. Find our ideas for day trips in the... must-sees on the Isle of Skye.

The Cairngorms and Galloway

Further south, the Cairngorms National Park often enjoys drier weather than the west coast. Tomintoul and Glenlivet form a Dark Sky Reserve within it. Finally, Galloway Forest Park, in the southwest, was the UK's first Dark Sky Park.

Our tips for a successful observation

• Follow free alerts from’AuroraWatch UK, the service of Lancaster University, which reports nights of solar activity.
• Also check the local weather: without clear skies, even strong activity remains invisible.
• Get away from cities and lights, then let your eyes get used to the dark for about twenty minutes.
• Look north, with a horizon as clear as possible, for example facing the sea.
• Take photos: a smartphone sensor often reveals more vivid colors than the naked eye.
• Finally, bring warm clothes, a hat and a hot drink, as the wait can be long.

To help you choose your dates, our guide to climate in Scotland provides detailed weather information month by month.

Combining the Northern Lights with a trip to Scotland

We advise against basing your entire trip on seeing the Northern Lights. It's better to spend several nights in the north, in secluded accommodation, and enjoy the rest of your trip regardless of the weather.

An autumn or winter itinerary might combine Edinburgh, the Highlands, and two or three nights in Orkney or on the north coast. Days are then spent exploring castles, distilleries, and the scenery, while evenings are free to watch the stars.

Frequently asked questions about the Northern Lights in Scotland

What is the best month to see the Northern Lights in Scotland?

There is no guaranteed month. However, from October to March, the nights are long and dark, and late September and late March are often active.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Edinburgh?

Yes, but only during strong solar storms. In that case, go up a hill like Calton Hill or Arthur's Seat, away from the lights of the center.

Do you need a guide to see the Northern Lights?

No, observation is done with the naked eye. However, a local guide knows the best viewpoints, and secluded accommodation saves you from having to drive at night.

Are the Northern Lights in Scotland as beautiful as in Lapland?

They are generally less frequent and lower in the sky. On the other hand, nights of strong activity offer magnificent colors over the sea and cliffs.

Go see the Northern Lights with Brightside Travel

Our team lives in Scotland and follows the Northern Lights season every winter. We can adapt our trip to Orkney and Skye on your dates, or build with you a tailor-made trip to Scotland with several nights in the north.

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