Ireland and Scotland
 

My husband and I are planning to tour Ireland and Scotland this year. Could someone please advise us on the best time to go. That is ,temp wise and amount of rainfall and crowds. Any other hints would be welcomed.
Thanks,
CSG

Late May/early June would be my take.

I agree, if you have your choice then probably late May through June would be best, with September next best.

Total generalizations, but normally June would be a little wetter and a bit warmer, Sept a little drier and a bit cooler. The gardens are glorious in June, but still good in September. The busiest, most crowded times would be the middle of July through August.

But then again - you can't count on the weather being anything in particular, except changeable . . . . . .

Scotland is just incredible- lucky you! Be sure to see Kenmore- it is delightful & pure Scotland! I would suggest late September- Scotland is much better without the tourtists.

We did Scotland and Ireland the latter half of September, and experienced rain for much of the visit. But the temperatures were perfect for us -- getting away from Texas heat -- and we expected the rain.

There were no crowds to speak of, (with the exception of Edinburgh Castle which was comfortable) and the roads were wonderfully clear. Given the opportunity, I'd do September.

It will be a great trip, regardless...

Jim

I've never been to Ireland, but have done England, Wales, Scotland numerous times, always in either May or September (once into very early October).

We've had great weather on every trip, small to non-existent crowds, and glorious gardens/scenery.

Apparently we're just lucky on the weather (which, obviously, no one can predict), but the May and September timeframes have been great choices for us.

A light jacket (weather-proof!), with a cotton sweater to wear underneath it, and your regular clothes are all you need at those times of year.

You'll still have decent-sized crowds at the "big" attractions (Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and so forth), but they're manageable.

At smaller attractions you may be the only visitor, which is wonderful! We were the only people in Hill House (CR Mackintosh's design) near Glasgow two years ago in September. With a docent in almost every room and interesting (to us) details everywhere, we got the equivalent of a personal guided tour and many, many bits of information that the "general public" doesn't hear. (There were actually about 25-30 people in line with us when the doors opened. They all literally sprinted through the house - had to catch their bus tour in 30 minutes! - and were out before we left the foyer and stepped into the first real room!)

So, choose those nice off-season dates and have a great time!

Gayle

Thanks everyone for the good advice. I will go to the planning phase now!!!
CSG