Scotland is featuring one of it's hottest summers on record!
July has seen high temperatures of 32° Celsius (89.6° Fahrenheit) so far and is expected to rise over the next coming days. This heatwave is bringing some challenges to visitors as well as the locals, so we've put together some information and tips to help you enjoy your visit.
1. There is no air conditioning.
When you think of Scotland you don't tend to imagine a hot summer beach holiday destination? but, if your idea of the perfect comfortable temperature is around 70°f then you're going to be caught out when visiting Scotland this summer. Scotland isn't used to scorching temperatures, which means that while the heat is nice, there is no escaping it like in other countries. Your accommodation (along with most shops and buildings) will most likely NOT have air conditioning. On top of this, most places have been designed to keep heat in for the harsh winter months. To help make your visit more comfortable, contact your accommodation in advance and ask if they have air conditioning as well as heating and, if needed, can supply a fan for your room? A handheld fan may also be a good idea if you're going to be out and about during your visit. Along with sun-cream and a sun hat, as even in a cool breeze the sun may still be concentrated on you while you're outside.
2. Think twice before jumping into a body of water.
While some of our Loch's and Rivers are safe to swim in during the summer, most people won't realise they can have a considerable temperature difference from on land. Many of our rivers are fed from melted ice that run off nearby mountains. Some Lochs also have underwater streams that feed it cold water from said rivers. Never jump straight into a body of water in Scotland without testing the water first as you may find you've gone from a 15°c (80°f) to 7°c (44°f) in a matter of seconds. Most people are not used to this sudden temperature change and may experience something called 'Cold Water Shock Syndrome' where the blood vessels in the skin close, heart rate increases, and the sudden change in skin temperature causes involuntary gasps for breath. This reaction is instant and can be fatal. Should you find yourself in this situation, swim to the surface and lay on your back letting yourself float as you try to calm your body. Please be aware that some of our beaches are also fed from the icy North Sea and can be cold even in the summer.
3. A lot of places to shop/visit can be closed on Sundays and Mondays.
It is becoming more and more common for businesses to close on Sundays and Mondays, especially here in Scotland. There are many reasons why businesses choose to close on these days and it's usually because Friday and Saturday are the busiest days for most venues and Sundays and Mondays offer respite after the rush of business. Mondays are usually a low-in-sales day for the average business so it makes sense to close on this day rather than on any other day of the week.
4. Watch out for the 'Giant Hogweed'!
It may have pretty white blossoms but this giant plant packs a nasty reaction. The Russian and Georgian native plant first invaded the U.K. in the late 19th century and has since made it's home by spreading across the whole of Britain. Giant Hogweed can be seen growing in the wild near Scottish riverbanks and woodland but, as impressive as it looks should never be touched. When the sap of the plant comes in contact with the skin of both humans and animals it can cause severe burns and even blindness! It is now an offense to actively plant hogweed in any part of Briton and it is encouraged that if you see any growing in the wild to report to the local council of that area.
5. Scotland is busiest from early July to early September.
Most schools in Scotland do not breakup for summer until the last week of June, with schools in Wales, England and Ireland usually breaking up around two weeks after. This means that July and August tend to be the busiest months for events as well as tourist destinations. So expect places like Edinburgh Castle to be packed with tourists. Even Glencoe can get busy around this time.
Have you visited Scotland in the Summer (or live here?) if so, what is something you wish you'd known? or found interesting? Comment below...
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