Northern Lights Scotland: Where & When to See the Aurora in the Highlands

Witnessing the Northern Lights in the Scottish Highlands

Roam West Aurora

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most mesmerising displays. Dancing across the night sky in hues of green, pink, and violet, they offer a rare and unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to see them.

And yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Scotland. In fact, the Scottish Highlands are one of the best places in the UK to witness them.

Why the Scottish Highlands Are Ideal for Aurora Watching

The Highlands offer dark skies, minimal light pollution, and wide open views, making them a dream location for aurora chasers. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, when the conditions align, the display is magical.

Northern Lights above the Scottish Highlands near Roam West

Scotland’s northerly latitude increases your chances of catching the aurora, especially between September and March, when nights are long and skies are darkest.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Scotland

• Aurora season: Late September to March

• Peak months: October to February

• Best times: 10pm–2am, especially during clear, cold nights

• Top tip: Monitor solar activity and cloud cover - both must align

Best Places in the Highlands to See the Northern Lights

While many areas offer good chances, these spots are known favourites:

• Isle of Skye

Famous for its wild beauty and low light pollution. The Trotternish Peninsula and Neist Point are great for wide sky views.

• Caithness & Sutherland

At the northern tip of mainland Scotland - excellent dark skies and wide horizons.

• Cairngorms National Park

Less frequented for aurora hunting, but clear skies and elevation make it a good option.

• Lochaber & Fort William (Roam West region)

With low light levels, wide views, and easy access to dark sky spots, our corner of the Highlands is ideal for last-minute aurora watching.

Top Aurora Forecast Apps for Scotland

Plan your night with apps that monitor aurora activity (KP Index) and local cloud cover:

1. My Aurora Forecast – Live maps, alerts & KP data

2. Aurora Alerts: Northern Lights – Location-based visibility alerts

3. AuroraWatch UK – Run by Lancaster University, tailored for UK sightings

Can You Really See the Northern Lights in Scotland?

Yes, you can. While Scotland isn’t as far north as Norway or Iceland, strong solar activity combined with clear skies can produce dazzling auroras, even as far south as Edinburgh (though much less common).

A magical Aurora above Roam West

Your chances are significantly better the further north and away from city lights you go, which is why the Highlands, including Glencoe and Lochaber, are such a good bet.

Tips for a Successful Aurora Hunt

• Head away from light pollution - the darker the better

• Use the apps listed above to monitor conditions

• Be patient - auroras come and go unexpectedly

• Wrap up warm - nights can be freezing

• Bring a tripod & camera - even faint auroras show up better in long-exposure photos

The Magic of the Aurora Above Roam West

When conditions are right, you can spot the aurora directly from the Roam West area, just a short drive from Fort William, but far enough into the wild for truly dark skies.

Whether you’re staying with us or simply chasing the lights, the Northern Highlands offer a front-row seat to one of nature’s most extraordinary performances.

Do I need a camera to see the Northern Lights?

No , but a good camera with long exposure can help capture them more vividly, especially if they’re faint.

Plan Your Stay

Staying in the Highlands during aurora season? Roam West is a cosy, group-friendly base with minimal light pollution and easy access to fantastic stargazing spots.

Book your stay and keep your eyes on the skies.