Edinburgh in autumn is marked by the crisp crunch of copper and red leaves underfoot on cobblestones. Although the city is winding down from its summer festival season, there are still plenty of seasonal events to enjoy across the city.
Discover the best places to visit and spectacular autumn activities around Edinburgh this season.
When is Autumn in Edinburgh?
Between September and November, Scotland’s green capital is framed by stunning autumn hues. The average temperature in September is 13°C (55°F), dropping to 7°C (45°F) by November.
Edinburgh’s autumn gloom adds to its reputation as one of the most haunted cities, perfect for trick or treating on Halloween.
Weather-wise, November leans more towards winter, occasionally treating visitors to the odd snowflake and crisp, clear days that are perfect for exploring the city’s parks and historic streets while bundled in warm layers.
Things to do in Edinburgh in Autumn
Enjoy autumn? There is so much to do in Edinburgh!
Best Autumn Walks in Edinburgh
With fewer crowds and quieter streets, autumn is a wonderful time to explore Edinburgh’s pathways and parks, whenever the weather allows. Each of these walks offers a unique view, whether you’re after history, nature or simply a peaceful moment.
1. Stroll along the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is ideal for those who enjoy a bit of adventure on a walk. This thoroughfare stretches from Castle Rock, where Edinburgh Castle is at one end, to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other, with St Giles’ Cathedral standing proudly in the middle.
Between these historic landmarks, you’ll discover charming shops, cosy cafés, hidden closes and fascinating museums.
2. Meander through the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
If autumn is your favourite season for watching the leaves change, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh gives you 3,500 reasons to visit.
The garden features thousands of trees and the Scottish native plants collection, ensuring you will see every autumnal colour under the Scottish sky. Truly a highlight on the Big Bus Blue Route.
3. Follow the Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith Walkway winds through some of Edinburgh’s most picturesque areas, including the charming Dean Village.
This gentle path follows the river from the city centre to the Leith Shore. The Colinton Dell section offers enchanting woodland walks, with golden leaves carpeting the winding paths.
4. Climb Calton Hill
For those who don’t mind a bit of uphill walking, Calton Hill rewards you with some of the city’s most spectacular views. Watch the leaves change colour in Princes Street Gardens spread out below, with the Scott Monument looking even more dramatic against the crisp sky.
5. Adventure to Cramond Island
If you’re feeling adventurous and the tide is right, the causeway walk to Cramond Island is unforgettable in autumn. The path is only accessible at low tide, so make sure you consult the tide tables before you go.
Edinburgh Autumn Festivals
Here are a few festivals that will enrich your visit to Edinburgh.
6. Scottish International Storytelling Festival
You’ll hear plenty of yarns and tall tales over a drink in any Edinburgh pub, but the annual Scottish International Storytelling Festival (SISF) gives this tradition a stage of its own.
Most events are held at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the High Street. Others take place throughout the city, featuring performances, exhibitions and community gatherings that bring people of all ages together through shared stories.
7. Doors Open Days
The Doors Open Fest is a long-running free festival across Scotland where hundreds of beautiful buildings open their doors to visitors in autumn. Visit their website and social media for rare access to areas not open to the general public, like Dean Gardens.
8. Edinburgh Oktoberfest
Experience an authentic Oktoberfest in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. Held in Princes Street Gardens West, you can enjoy the great outdoors with speciality-brewed Bavarian beers, traditional German cuisine and live folk entertainment.
9. Samhuinn Fire Festival
A contemporary reimagining of a Celtic tradition that marks the end of summer and welcomes winter. The event takes place on All Hallows’ Eve, featuring a theatrical spectacle of fire, drumming, acrobatics and costumed characters.
10. Scots Fiddle Fesatival
Held each November at The Pleasance Theatre, this intimate festival celebrates traditional Scottish fiddle music and runs late into the evening. Alongside live music and workshops, you’ll find good food, drink, and impromptu performances sure to tug at your heartstrings.
FAQs About the Autumn Season in Edinburgh
Is October a good time to visit Edinburgh?
Yes, October is a wonderful month to explore the Scottish capital. The month falls in Edinburgh’s shoulder season, after the summer tourist rush but before the winter festivals and holiday crowds. Expect highs around 13°C and lows near 6°C.
Which Edinburgh church is covered in red ivy?
Liberton Kirk is covered in ivy that turns a beautiful deep red in autumn. Situated on a hill overlooking Edinburgh, the semi-Gothic building houses an active congregation.
Liberton Kirk is frequently part of the Doors Open festival, giving visitors the chance to explore its long history, architecture and peaceful surroundings.
What kind of clothing is suitable for Edinburgh in autumn?
Wear layers, with the outer layer and shoes being waterproof. An umbrella is highly impractical due to the strong winds, so invest in a good waterproof jacket with a hood instead. Don’t forget a scarf and gloves for autumn walks through the Old Town.
What’s the best place to watch the Autumn Nations Series in Edinburgh?
Many matches of the Autumn Nations Series (previously called the Autumn Internationals) take place at Edinburgh’s Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, making November a fantastic time to be in the city.
If you can’t secure tickets to the stadium, there are plenty of excellent pubs packed with supporters from both northern and southern hemisphere teams.
- The Cambridge Bar – 20 Young Street, Edinburgh. Watch rugby on a massive 92″ (2.3m) screen while enjoying gourmet burgers at this stylish gastropub in the Old Town.
- The Globe Bar –13 Niddry Street, Edinburgh. Just a short walk off the Royal Mile, this self-described “underground fun palace” features multiple screens, an international selection of beers, and a lively crowd perfect for match viewing.
- Footlights Bar – 7 Spittal Street, Edinburgh. Arrive early to grab a table on match day, or book a booth or semi-private area for a more exclusive viewing experience at one of the city’s premier sports bars.
- Cask & Barrel – Broughton Street, Edinburgh. An authentic ale house serving comforting home-cooked lunches alongside a stellar selection of ales.
- The Shakespeare – 65 Lothian Road, Edinburgh. A family and dog-friendly pub offering old-world charm and hearty comfort food, including their famous pies.
- The Three Sisters Bar – 139 Cowgate, Edinburgh. Experience camaraderie with students and locals while watching on one of the city’s largest outdoor screens, or choose from their 30 indoor screens.
Top Tip: Skip crowded public transport. Catch a ride on a bright orange double-decker for just £2 from the city centre to the Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium.
Want to know more about Edinburgh? Explore our blogs for more details, from free to visit museums to guides on the best parks.
Big Bus Tours: Fall for Edinburgh in Autumn
Hop on board a Big Bus Tour and explore Edinburgh from the city centre to the harbour district on an open-top, hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus. Jump off at any stop to discover attractions and some of the most photographed spots at your own pace.
We have two exciting routes to get to know the capital better:
1. City Tour – Red Route
- Duration of journey: 1 hour, 10 minutes
- Frequency: Every 10 mins till 17:00, then every 20 mins
- Ticket Price: Starts at £19
2. Britania Tour – Blue Route
- Duration of journey: 55 minutes
- Frequency: Every hour
- Ticket price: From £26.50 with our Explore Ticket, which includes 48-hour access to the City Tour
Benefits of hopping on a Big Bus this autumn:
- Real-time bus tracking via the Big Bus app (on Google Play or Apple Store)
- The cheapest, fastest, brightest way to and from Edinburgh Airport on the Bright Bus Airport Express
- Pre-recorded commentary in nine languages with complementary headphones
- Dog-friendly service
- 100% wheelchair-accessible buses
- Discounts for groups of over 20 travellers
Experience the beauty of an Edinburgh autumn from the top of a red double-decker bus! Book our Explore Ticket for a city tour of two routes in two days.