January in Scotland
Weather
Our weather is known for its unpredictable nature, best demonstrated throughout Scotland in January. It can be clear and stunning, crisp and cold, with ground frozen solid underfoot and crystal clear blue skies overhead. We do get snow over the winter, however, not all the time and it is more prevalent on higher ground. All that said, it can get warmer and wetter too with some rainy, damp and muddy days! So bring your warm clothes and good boots – waterproof preferably. Whatever the weather, it doesn’t stop Scotland it’s just part of who we are.
Flora and Fauna
It’s the beginning of the year. On days with no snow cover we’ll see green flashes of some Spring flowers beginning to come through. Towards the end of the month, in sheltered spots, we’ll maybe see Snowdrops poking up getting ready to flower in the later weeks of the month.
Red Deer Stags and Hinds are a common sight at the road side, especially in the highlands. They’re often on the road licking the salt from the road (used for de-icing). We’re likely to see Pheasants and Buzzards as well as other smaller birds on the wing, on fenceposts and in trees.
Events
January’s Events typically focus more on indoors. However the ski-centres are normally open in January allowing a mixture of down hill and cross-country skiing. In Addition to our guiding services, we can offer airport transfers to the ski slopes from Scotlands airports. Contact us here!
January in Scotland is host to Burns Suppers. All across the country (and around the world) we celebrate the birthday (25th), life and work of our national poet with a night of recital, story telling, toasts, food and drink. Come with us to a Burns night, our guides would be happy to attend with you to explain the proceedings and translate the old Scots into English! Remember, Burns Suppers range from the very formal to the very informal gatherings (often in someone’s house!) so there’s something for everyone.
In Glasgow the Celtic Connections music festival runs from the 17th January to the 3rd of February. One of the largest winter music festivals in the world! This fantastic festival features bands from across Scotland, the UK and the world.
Further afield you can witness the torch parade of “Up helly A“. The viking celebration of the new year in Shetland. It is massively popular with people from all over the world attending the celebration on the 29th and a few days either side.
There really is something for everyone in Scotland in January!
Seasonal Food
Our culture does have a focus and emphasis on food, at a Burns night it is traditional to enjoy Haggis, Neeps (mashed Turnips) and Tatties (mashed Potatoes), normally with some Whisky!! In Addition, winter is a good time for stews and pies made with our readily available game, Venison, Hare, Pheasant along with seasonal root vegetables make for wholesome, hearty meals.
January Tours
If you’d like to find out more or book with us for a tour in January, please get in touch here!
Or fill in the form here!
