Best Weather
The months of June, July and August are typically the hottest and driest months, although it is still not unusual for summer to be rainy or chilly. One of the best things about summer though is that attractions are open later.
Shoulder Season
For the cheapest hotel and airfare--and fewer crowds--consider traveling during the shoulder season, the months in between the busy summer season and the low winter season. In Scotland and Ireland, the shoulder season tends to be April and May or September and October.
Festivals
Consider timing your visit around the many festivals in Ireland and Scotland. August is a great month to spend in Edinburgh when the Edinburgh Festival takes place, as well as the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Ireland has numerous St Patrick's Day events in March; the biggest is the Dublin Festival and Parade.
Christmas
Christmas is an excellent time of year to visit. Each town has its own festivities and decorations. Most pubs have live music for the holidays. Visitors to Scotland can enjoy the many hogmanay celebrations after Christmas.
Months to Avoid
January and February can be particularly cold and dreary in both Ireland and Scotland, where average temperatures can be just 5 degrees Celsius.
Article Written By Shiromi Nassreen
Shiromi Nassreen has been writing professionally since 2005. She specializes in travel and outdoor topics, and her articles have appeared in various print and online publications, including "DISfunkshion Magazine" and Matador Travel. Nassreen holds a Bachelor of Arts in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama.
