March in Scotland is normally the time of year when wintery Scotland wakes up from an imposed snowy hibernation, and we have certainly had some snow to recover from this year. 
So the question for visitors visiting Scotland in March is, as ever, is March an excellent time to visit Scotland? Spring arrives here very slowly, and winter lingers longer, particularly in the Highland glens, albeit daylight hours are stretched somewhat, and there will be budding of greenery in the Lowlands. The weather in Scotland in March is mainly damp and overcast, with tantalising outbreaks of sunshine, but it will be cold and oft-times wet, with plenty of rain showers. Night temperatures can drop several degrees below freezing. Excellent advice is that in Scotland, all year round is to remember that the higher you go, the cooler it gets. And don’t forget this part of Scotland is on the same latitude as Kodiak Island.
By March, the days get warmer and longer, with around 12 hours of daylight. The average high temperature will have increased to around eight °C, which can be a little misleading because it can be colder in some Highland regions. With around 15 wet days in the month (measured at Edinburgh), expect plenty of rain showers in March, but remember that Scottish weather is unpredictable, and rain can give way to sunshine – and vice versa – with little or no warning. Hail and even snow in March can occur in some of Scotland’s more northerly and mountainous areas.
But all is not lost, as the magical phenomenon of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) is occasionally visible in the skies above northern Scotland during March – the spring equinox. Appearing at around midnight in dark, clear skies during mild weather in areas unpolluted by city lights, it is worthwhile to observe the skies – even if you don’t see nature’s light display, the peace, quiet and starry skies make for a rewarding Scottish holiday experience. Just in our garden alone, you can marvel at the stars.
Either way, the dark skies in this part of the World make star-spotting fun, and it is always good to identify the International Space Station passing overhead.
March in Scotland Events
Mothering Sunday is mid-March, and it always makes me think Spring is on its way. There is something special about seeing the snowdrops appearing, plus looking at the new leaves coming through on the trees along with increasing daylight hours. The grounds and gardens of Brodie Castle are famous for their unique daffodil collection in spring, late March – April, so this is the perfect time to see Wordsworth’s host of golden daffodils.
So if you are looking for a holiday with a difference or a unique bed and breakfast in Scotland, I would have to say that for well-deserved reasons, Scotland is one of the most visited destinations in the World. Still, most visitors plan their visit to coincide with the best weather during Easter and the end of October.
For those less concerned with the weather or not into Munro bagging, it doesn’t matter. Plan a day’s fishing in one of our stunning Rivers instead. Having time to sit and absorb Scotland’s scenery and sounds is lovely. The call of a Buzzard or the loud voices of the Seagulls as they fly inland. Sit outside in the evening at any time of the year and listen to the owls.
Not got the right clothes to deal with the weather? Two things to do, either wait 10 minutes, and the weather will likely change again or consider it a retail opportunity, and we can direct you to some of the best shops!
It might help to know that you can afford to go shopping if you stay with us in March as our rates always change on the 1st of April, and better still if you use our Blervie House Loyalty Card, you get additional discounts at Johnstons of Elgin.
There will always be an excellent reason to visit Scotland in March. Find out more by checking here.