Autumn in Scotland can be glorious, with temperatures in September at least rivaling those of the summer, while crowds are absent everywhere. The only caveat is that September is also deer stalking season, so access to some Highland paths can be limited.

A School holiday week in mid-October generally marks the watershed for the tourist season and many more minor attractions and remoter visitor centres will close down after this, or at least reduce their hours – as will some ferry services.

Low-season for any accommodation that hasn't closed for the season beings late-October making it a great time to find deals. Temperatures then will be around 12ºC (53ºF) and it's one of the rainiest times of year.

The raininess continues in November when temperatures typically drop to around 9ºC (47ºF). And with the nights closing in and the sun setting before 5pm (Daylight savings time ends around the end of October), this can be the gloomiest month to visit Scotland.