Top Fall Activities in Scotland

The Enchanted Forest

Are you a fan of light and sound? Looking for something to do on your fall trip to Scotland? Look no further than the Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry!

What is the Enchanted Forest?

The Enchanted Forest is an event held in Pitlochry, Scotland every fall. It is an immersive experience of sound and lights in the woods. In 2016, I was fortunate that my university offered students the chance to attend this incredible event.

Not only was I amazed at the changing lights and colors, but the true immersive nature of the experience. From the moment we arrived, we were met with lights and sounds that transformed the outdoor space into a fantasy world. Every step brought us deeper into the magic, with projection displays and interactive lights.

Visiting the Enchanted Forest

While I got to experience this event through school as a student, there are other ways you can attend the Enchanted Forest. It’s an annual event that typically runs throughout October, making it the perfect fall activity for your visit to Scotland! Tickets can also be booked in advance, so be sure to plan ahead.

Included in ticket prices is transportation via shuttle bus from the city center of Pitlochry. No car? No problem! The shuttle is short and hassle free. Don’t plan on driving yourself or using rideshare, as there is limited parking and car access on-site, available only in advance to those who are disabled.

The Enchanted Forest is accessed through a walking trail around a lake, so be sure to dress comfortably. One of the draws, for me, was the fact that this event is entirely outdoors, merging lights and nature. One thing to keep in mind with this is that Scotland can be cold and damp – dress accordingly!

Another perk of attending is that you can take more than one lap around the trail, taking in more of the show as you go. The show has various start times, so you might just catch something new on a second lap around!

More Information on Visiting Pitlochry

For more information, such as when this event is held, purchasing tickets, and logistics of visiting Pitlochry, please visit the official event site.

More To Do in Scotland in the Fall

Are you planning a trip to Scotland in the fall? There’s something for everyone! My Fall semester allowed for plenty of travel within Scotland. Check out some of my favorite things and places below!

The Castle Trail

Who goes to Scotland and doesn’t seek castles? Good news for castle lovers everywhere is that there is a castle trail in Aberdeenshire. Enjoyable at any time of year, I especially recommend a fall visit with fewer crowds and fallen leaves. An added bonus is that Balmoral Castle is typically open to visitors in the fall. Most years, it’s used as a summer residence for the Royal family and inaccessible for that time frame. Some castles I’ve visited and recommend are:

• Dunnottar Castle
  • Allegedly the inspiration behind the castle in Brave, this cliff-side castle was the site of the last Jacobite rebellion.
• Huntly Castle
  • A castle has existed in Huntly since the 12th century, and some say this one is haunted!
• Balmoral Castle
  • The preferred summer home of Queen Elizabeth II, Balmoral estate is most accessible in the fall.

Oktoberfest Aberdeen

Do you like the idea of Oktoberfest, but not the crowds and logistics? Check out Aberdeen’s local Oktoberfest! This event happens in late September and features live music, food and drinks, competitions and games. Tickets can be booked in advance and it’s advised to do so if traveling with a group.

Take a Wizard Walking Tour in Edinburgh

Many myths exist to say where the famous Harry Potter series was written, but one city that fully embraces the inspiration lore is Edinburgh. On a weekend trip to the city, my friend and I took a walking tour inspired by the series. Take a stroll down Diagon Alley (erm.. Victoria Street), have a hot chocolate in the Elephant House Cafe, and take in Edinburgh Castle (maybe it’s Hogwarts?). Even if you’ve lost your love or support for the wizarding world, the charm of Edinburgh can still get you in the cozy fall spirit.