We are going to a wedding in Edinburgh the last weekend in October. We expect the bride to wear a long white dress, without a waterproof coat and wellies. Bridesmaids ditto except for the white part. Groomsment kilts. My wife: big hat. Self: dark suit. Umbrella, yes. Wellies, no. Stout boots, no. Life goes on.

Seriously, this is as good a time as any to go, as others have pointed out.

If you want Highland scenery and castles, but still stay mainly in the eastern part of the country, then Aberdeenshire and Royal Deeside can more than fill the bill, plus it's relatively easy to access from Edinburgh/Fife. http://www.discoverroyaldeeside.com/

Or maybe visit beautiful Glen Lyon, which might still be in its autumn dress. http://gardyloo.us/glenlyon1s.jpg

Craigievar Castle, near Alford, Aberdeenshire: http://gardyloo.us/craigevar2.jpg

Glen Lyon in autumn:

My goodness--thank you so much janisj and Gardyloo! I'm getting excited about my trip again. Look forward to more janisj.

By chance, could someone please recommend a good castle to stay in on the east side? Looking to spend about $200 or abouts. Thanks so much.

Traquair House. £100 single / £180 double (so over your budget if you meant for two)

http://www.traquair.co.uk/

Thanks janisj. That place is so beautiful. I put in an enquiry and am keeping my fingers crossed.

"I'm getting the overwhelming message that Scotland weather is unpredictable."

No, the weather in the whole of the UK is unpredictable.