If you’re dreaming of an elopement in Scotland, there’s a good chance you’ve already fallen in love with the dramatic landscapes, moody skies and wild beauty.
But here’s the thing – the time of year you choose can completely transform your experience.
And we need to be straight with you from the start: we actively discourage summer elopements in Scotland. Specifically July, August and early September.
Before you panic, hear us out. We’ve been photographing elopements here for over a decade, and we’ve seen every season Scotland has to offer. We know what works, what doesn’t and when you’ll get the best possible experience for your money.
So let’s break down every month, the good and the bad, so you can make the right choice for your Scottish elopement.
Why We Won’t Photograph Summer Elopements
Let’s get this out of the way first because it’s important.
From July through early September, we don’t take elopement bookings in the Highlands.
Why? Two words: midges and crowds.
The Midge Problem
The image above is Jodie’s arm after a few minutes with the Scottish Midge. Bear with us… the photos get better as you continue reading.
Scottish Highland midges (Culicoides impunctatus – yep, we had to Google that) are tiny biting insects that emerge in huge swarms during summer. They’re not dangerous, but they are absolutely miserable. I will be honest, they are the worst thing about living and working in Scotland.
Midge season runs from late May to September, with July and August being peak horror show time.
These aren’t like mosquitoes where you get the occasional bite. We’re talking swarms of thousands. They’re attracted to:
- Sheltered areas (forests, glens, near water)
- Still, humid conditions
- Dawn and dusk (but also midday if it’s overcast)
- Dark clothing
- The carbon dioxide you breathe out
The Western Highlands including areas like Glencoe are particularly affected because of the wet, boggy terrain – perfect midge breeding conditions.
You cannot have a romantic outdoor ceremony when you’re being attacked by clouds of biting insects. We’ve seen couples literally run back to their cars. It’s not worth it.
The Tourist Problem
July and August are Scotland’s peak tourist months. Every viewpoint, every popular location, every car park is rammed.
That intimate mountain ceremony you’re imagining? There’ll be 30 tourists with selfie sticks in the background.
The secluded lochside moment? A tour bus will pull up halfway through your vows.
The dramatic Glencoe vista? Packed.
This is not what you’re paying for when you elope to Scotland.
You want solitude, drama and landscapes that feel like they belong to you. Summer doesn’t deliver that in the Highlands.
The Cost Problem
Flights cost more. Accommodation costs more. Everything is more expensive because it’s peak season.
So you’re paying premium prices for midges and crowds. That’s not great value.
Our recommendation: avoid July, August and early September entirely.
Now, let’s talk about when you SHOULD come.
Winter: December to February
Our take: Absolutely magical if you’re up for the adventure.
Winter in Scotland is dramatic, moody and often stunning. Snow-dusted mountains, crisp air, golden low-angled light and virtually no tourists.
The Good:
Weather and light: According to Met Office data, average daytime temperatures in the Highlands range from 4-7°C in January (that’s 39-45°F). Edinburgh is slightly milder at around 6-8°C.
The light is incredible. The sun stays low on the horizon, giving you that golden hour glow for much of the day. Sunrises are around 8:30am and sunsets around 4pm in December and January.
Zero midges: They’re completely gone. Not a single one. Bliss.
No crowds: You’ll have the landscapes to yourselves. Genuinely. We’ve done winter elopements where we didn’t see another soul all day.
Cost savings: Flights and accommodation are significantly cheaper. You’re looking at 30-50% savings compared to summer prices.
Drama: If you get snow, your photos will be absolutely epic. Even without snow, the landscapes are moody and atmospheric.
The Challenges:
Daylight hours: December has around 7 hours of daylight. January improves slightly to 8 hours. This limits your ceremony timing options.
Weather unpredictability: Scottish winter weather is changeable. You might get crisp, clear days or wind and rain. Sometimes both in the same hour.
Temperature: It’s cold. Not Siberia cold, but you’ll need proper layers. Your dress might need to accommodate thermals underneath or you’ll want a good coat for between photos.
Road conditions: Some Highland roads can be tricky if there’s snow or ice. You’ll need to factor in extra travel time and possibly a 4×4 vehicle.
Best for:
Adventurous couples who love dramatic weather, don’t mind the cold and want stunning moody photos. Perfect if you’re flexible with your exact ceremony location based on weather conditions.
Our verdict: Winter is underrated and often delivers spectacular results.
Spring (Sort Of): March to April
Our take: March is tricky. April starts improving. May is genuinely good.
Spring in Scotland is unpredictable. March especially can feel more like late winter.
March: The Awkward Month
Average temperatures: 6-9°C (43-48°F) in the Highlands, slightly warmer in Edinburgh.
The problem with March:
- Snow has often melted, leaving mountains looking bare and brown
- Grass is still yellowy-brown from winter
- Trees haven’t leafed out yet
- The landscapes look bleak and barren
And here’s the worst bit about March: if you get sunshine, it’s actually terrible.
The sun sits low and harsh, creating horrible shadows across those already-barren landscapes. Everything looks washed out and lifeless. The brown mountains just look browner. There’s no softness to the light.
Give us grey skies and drizzle any day over harsh March sunshine on dead landscapes.
Positives:
- Fewer tourists than summer
- No midges yet
- Cheaper than peak season
- Daylight hours improving (sunrise around 6:30am, sunset around 6:30pm by end of March)
April: Slightly Better
Average temperatures: 7-11°C (45-52°F).
April improves on March. You might start seeing early spring flowers. Daylight hours are good (sunrise around 6am, sunset around 8pm by end of April).
The catch: Easter holidays can bring tourist crowds, especially if Easter falls in April. Prices increase around Easter week.
May: Now We’re Talking
Average temperatures: 10-14°C (50-57°F).
May is when Scotland properly wakes up.
- Landscapes turn green
- Wildflowers start appearing
- Days are long (sunrise around 5am, sunset around 9pm)
- Weather is generally milder
- Tourist numbers are still manageable
- Midges haven’t fully emerged yet (they start late May onwards)
Our verdict: Skip March if you can. April is okay. May is genuinely lovely.
Late Spring/Early Summer: Late May to June
Our take: This is your sweet spot if you want green landscapes and decent weather.
Late May
By late May, Scotland is properly green and beautiful. Average temperatures are around 13-15°C (55-59°F).
The good:
- Lush landscapes
- Long daylight hours
- Generally pleasant weather
- Wildflowers blooming
The catch: Midges start emerging in late May, especially in the west Highlands. They’re not at peak horror levels yet, but they’re around.
June
Average temperatures: 14-17°C (57-63°F).
June is Scotland’s driest month statistically, though that’s not saying much. You’ll still get rain.
Why June works:
- Beautiful green landscapes
- Nearly 18 hours of daylight in late June
- Warmer temperatures
- Midges are present but not yet at peak levels
The downside:
- More tourists than May
- Midges increasing
- Prices starting to climb
- More popular locations getting busier
Our verdict: Late May and June are excellent months. You get greenery without the worst of the crowds or midges.
Summer: July to Early September
Our take: We’ve already told you. Don’t do it.
But since you might be considering it anyway, here’s the breakdown:
July
Average temperatures: 15-19°C (59-66°F).
The problems:
- Peak midge season (miserable)
- Peak tourist season (crowded everywhere)
- School holidays start
- Accommodation prices at their highest
- Car parks full
- Popular viewpoints packed
- If it’s sunny (which it often is), we’re shooting in harsh midday light or waiting until late evening for decent light
July is Scotland’s warmest month, which sounds appealing. But warm Scottish weather brings out the midges in force.
August
Average temperatures: 15-19°C (59-66°F).
August is similar to July but often wetter. It’s still peak tourist season. Midges are still terrible. Everything is still expensive.
The Edinburgh Festival runs through August, which means the capital is absolutely rammed and accommodation is both scarce and extortionate.
Early September
Early September is marginally better than July and August, but midges are still active and tourist numbers remain high until mid-September.
Our verdict: Just don’t. Seriously. You’ll regret it.
Autumn Gold: Late September to November
Our take: This is our absolute favourite time for Scottish elopements.
Autumn in Scotland is genuinely spectacular. This is when we get most excited about shooting.
Late September
By late September, tourist numbers drop significantly. Midges start declining as temperatures cool. Average temperatures: 13-16°C (55-61°F).
The landscapes begin their autumn transformation. Bracken on the hillsides turns rusty orange and gold.
Positives:
- Fewer tourists
- Declining midge numbers
- Autumn colours starting
- Still decent weather
- More affordable than summer
October: Peak Autumn
Average temperatures: 10-13°C (50-55°F).
October is absolute magic.
The hills turn every shade of amber, gold, rust and bronze. The colours are spectacular. The light is beautiful – golden and soft. Tourist numbers are well down.
Daylight hours are still reasonable (sunrise around 7:30am, sunset around 6pm).
Weather is variable but often delivers crisp, clear days mixed with dramatic moody conditions.
October is when Scotland looks its absolute best.
November: The Secret Month
Average temperatures: 6-9°C (43-48°F).
Here’s our secret: November might be the best month to elope in Scotland.
We know. That sounds insane. But hear us out.
Why November is brilliant:
- Autumn colours often linger into early November
- You might get snow on the mountain tops (incredible for photos)
- Virtually no tourists
- Accommodation prices drop significantly
- The landscapes feel wild and dramatic
- Midges are completely gone
- You’ll have everywhere to yourselves
Yes, it’s colder. Yes, daylight is shorter (sunrise around 8am, sunset around 4pm). Yes, you’ll probably get rain.
But the drama, the solitude and the value are unbeatable.
We’ve done November elopements that delivered snowy mountain tops, golden autumn colours and moody atmospheric conditions all in one day.
Our verdict: Autumn is outstanding. October is peak perfection. November is the insider’s choice.
What Makes Great Scottish Elopement Weather (From a Photographer’s Perspective)
Let’s clear something up because most people get this completely wrong.
We don’t want sunshine. Ever.
That might sound insane, but hear us out. We’re photographers who’ve shot hundreds of Scottish elopements, and we know what makes spectacular images.
The Best Weather for Photos:
Mist: Absolutely magical. Adds depth, mystery and that otherworldly Scottish atmosphere.
Cloud: Diffuses harsh light, creates even, flattering illumination and adds drama to skies.
Drizzle: Makes everything moody and atmospheric. Adds texture to the air. Creates that epic Scottish feeling.
Wind: Moves your dress or veil dramatically. Creates dynamic energy in photos. Clears away midges in summer.
This is what makes iconic Scottish elopement photos.
Why Sunshine is Actually a Problem:
Bright, direct sunshine creates harsh shadows on faces, washes out landscapes and makes people squint. It’s the worst lighting for photography.
In Scotland, sunshine also exposes every flaw in the landscape. Brown hillsides look browner. Bare patches look worse. Tourist litter becomes visible.
If we do get sunshine (which happens sometimes despite our best efforts), we work around it.
We’ll schedule your ceremony and main portraits as late as possible to catch golden hour and sunset – that soft, warm light right before the sun goes down. This works brilliantly in summer when sunset isn’t until 9-10pm.
It’s less ideal in winter when sunset is 4pm and you’re racing against fading light, but we’ll make it work.
But honestly? Give us overcast, misty, drizzly Scottish weather any day over bright sunshine. That’s when we create the most stunning images.
Tier 1 (Excellent):
- October
- November
- Late September
- May
Tier 2 (Good):
- June
- December
- January
- February
Tier 3 (Acceptable):
- April
- Early September
Tier 4 (Avoid):
- March
- July
- August
Summary: Our Month-by-Month Rankings
Ask yourself these questions:
1. What’s your priority?
- Green landscapes → May or June
- Autumn colours → Late September or October
- Drama and solitude → November, December or January
- Avoiding cold weather → May, June or September
2. What’s your budget?
- Tight budget → November through March (massive savings)
- Flexible budget → Any time except July/August
3. How do you feel about moody weather?
- You want mist, clouds and drizzle (photographer’s dream) → Any time works, but autumn and winter deliver this most consistently
- You want guaranteed sunshine → Scotland probably isn’t for you
4. Do you want snow in your photos?
- Yes → December, January, February or November (mountain tops)
- No → May through October
5. Do you trust us about weather?
- Yes, you want the best photos possible → Embrace clouds, mist and drizzle
- No, you really want sunshine → We’ll make it work with evening light, but understand this isn’t optimal for Scottish landscapes
How to Choose YOUR Best Month
Let’s be honest: Scottish weather is unpredictable regardless of when you come.
Average rainfall by month (Met Office data for Western Highlands):
- Wettest months: October-January (around 200mm+ per month)
- Driest months: April-June (around 80-120mm per month)
But “driest” still means you’ll probably see rain. Scotland averages 150-200 rain days per year in the Highlands.
The key is embracing the weather rather than fighting it.
Scottish rain makes for atmospheric photos. Mist and fog are dramatic. Moody skies are spectacular.
The couples who have the best elopement experiences are the ones who accept that weather is part of the adventure.
Practical Considerations by Season
Winter Elopements Need:
- Warm layers (thermals, coats, gloves)
- Waterproof gear
- Flexibility with location (some roads may be challenging)
- Earlier ceremony timing (before light fades around 4pm)
- Possibly 4×4 vehicle hire
Spring/Summer Elopements Need:
- Midge repellent if May onwards
- Light layers (weather changes quickly)
- Later ceremony timing possible (long daylight)
- Tourist awareness (avoid popular spots at peak times)
Autumn Elopements Need:
- Medium-weight layers
- Waterproof gear
- Flexibility for changing conditions
- Warm drinks (flask of whisky or hot chocolate)
FAQs
What if we can only come in summer? If July or August is your only option, consider Edinburgh or the East Coast instead of the Highlands. Midges are much less of a problem there. Or book very early morning ceremonies when midges are less active.
Can we rely on the weather forecast? Scottish weather forecasts are notoriously unreliable beyond 3-4 days. Don’t panic if the forecast looks bad a week out. It’ll probably change.
What if it rains on our elopement day? Perfect. We’ve photographed elopements in torrential rain that delivered some of our most stunning images. Rain is atmospheric, dramatic and quintessentially Scottish. This is what you came for.
Isn’t sunshine better for photos? No. This is the biggest misconception. Overcast, misty, drizzly conditions create far better images than bright sunshine. Trust us on this – we know what we’re doing.
Is November really that good? Yes. We’re not joking. November is phenomenal if you’re willing to embrace the conditions.
When should we book? At least 6-12 months in advance, especially for popular months like October. We typically book out for peak autumn months well ahead.
Can we get snow for our elopement? December through March are your best bets. Snow isn’t guaranteed even in winter, but if you’re flexible with location on the day, we can usually find snowy spots on the higher mountains.
The Bottom Line
The best month to elope in Scotland is the month that matches what YOU want from your experience.
Want lush green landscapes? May or June.
Want spectacular autumn colours? October.
Want drama and solitude on a budget? November or winter.
Want to avoid midges and crowds while saving money? Anything except July through early September.
Whatever you choose, just don’t come in summer expecting an intimate, midge-free experience in the Highlands. It won’t happen.
Scotland is spectacular year-round when you choose the right month for your priorities. Get in touch and we’ll help you figure out the perfect timing for your elopement adventure.
