BEAUTIFUL HOLIDAYS IN BRITAIN Plan your visit or staycation
Southern Scotland

Welcome to the South of Scotland

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Explore Welcome to the South of Scotland

Rolling hills, historic Border towns and a coastline waiting to be explored – welcome to the South of Scotland.

Browse our selection of brochures and official visitor guides to discover the timeless rural hospitality of Southern Scotland.

Holidays in Southern Scotland

Whether a holiday park, a country cottage or an indulgent city break, find the exact holiday you need with our official visitor guide selection.

Southern Scotland area map
Seasonal events and must-see locations - South Scotland

Festivals, fairs, food and history await across Southern Scotland. Below are highly recommended locations for one-of-a-kind events.

21 OCT

Edinburgh International Storytelling Festival 2026

Wed 21 Oct 2026 – Sat 31 Oct 2026 πŸ“ Edinburgh Ticketed (varies)

A celebration of live oral storytelling with performances and events across Edinburgh.

21 OCT

Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Wed 21 Oct 2026 – Sat 31 Oct 2026 πŸ“ Edinburgh Ticketed

Storytelling, music and workshops across venues including the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh.

5 NOV

Musselburgh Fireworks Display

Thu 5 Nov 2026 πŸ“ Edinburgh Free

Bonfire Night fireworks display held at Hope Place, Musselburgh, on the outskirts of Edinburgh.

8 NOV

Edinburgh Diwali

Sun 8 Nov 2026 πŸ“ Edinburgh Free

Free community parade and fireworks celebrating the Festival of Light through Edinburgh's New Town streets.

14 NOV

Edinburgh Christmas Market 2026

Sat 14 Nov 2026 – Mon 4 Jan 2027 πŸ“ Edinburgh Free

Edinburgh's famous Christmas market returns to East Princes Street Gardens and George Street with traditional wooden chalets, festive food and drink, fairground rides, and an ice rink beneath the castle.

14 NOV

Edinburgh's Christmas

Sat 14 Nov 2026 – Sun 3 Jan 2027 πŸ“ Edinburgh Free entry, rides ticketed

Seven-week winter festival across three city-centre sites with a Christmas market, big wheel, ice rink and Star Flyer ride.

See all Welcome to the South of Scotland events β†’

Beach and coast locations

Cities and towns

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of unparalleled beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a perfect destination for a staycation. Tucked between the rolling hills and the sea, Edinburgh offers a stunning blend of natural landscapes and architectural wonders. From the historic Royal Mile to the tranquil Princes Street Gardens, the city is a treasure trove of attractions, suitable for all ages and interests.

See destination
Edinburgh