Keep scrolling for intel on some of the most wonderful things to see and do in Scotland this November
Our ‘what’s on in Scotland’ guide features everything from art shows in Edinburgh and restaurant openings in Glasgow to traditional music festivals on Mull and film screenings on Skye. Scotland is rich in culture and we are here to let know where to find it.
1. Isle of Trad Music Festival on the Isle of Mull
When: 8th – 10th November
Where: The Western Isles Hotel, 64 A848, Tobermory PA75 6PR
Back for its second year, this free festival brings three days of traditional Scottish music to one of Mull’s most beautiful hotels, right on the waterfront.
Afternoon sessions feature informal gatherings where musicians try out tunes with each other and come and go, complete with lunch service from The Western Isles Hotel. In the evenings, the Tobermory Hotel will also be hosting “a raucous, knees-up jig of an afterparty until the wee hours.”
The restaurant will be serving breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout every performance, and the bar will be open from 11am to 11pm serving cocktails.
Visit the Isle of Trad Music Festival website
2. Nordic Music Days, contemporary music festival in Glasgow
When: 31st October – 3rd November
Where: Venues across Glasgow
The 2024 programme features over 200 musicians and composers from Greenland, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland – and, for the first time this year, Scotland. Running through the 2024 Festival is the theme of ‘Word of Mouth’. It invokes something personal, informal and close: the passing on, movement and the spreading of ideas, stories, knowledge and traditions.
Performance highlights include:
- Wonders of the Night Sky at the planetarium in Glasgow Science Centre on 2nd November: This special edition of Wonders of the Night Sky immerses audiences in the audio clutter of near-Earth-orbit, featuring the Trioxia soundscape by Girilal Baars.
- RSNO: Dark to Light at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on 2nd November: The Royal Scottish National Orchestra are joined by its Danish Music Director, Thomas Søndergård, to present a programme with superstar violinist Isabelle Faust.
- Echoes from the Edges at Glasgow St Mungo’s Cathedral on 3rd November: New works by Drew Hammond and Claire McCue sit alongside improvisations and traditional music from the islands as Dávur is joined by John Kenny, Kristian Blak and more.
Visit the Nordic Music Days website for tickets and timetables
3. Long Table Feasts with Nick Nairn, chef and owner of Nick’s at Port of Monteith in Stirling
When: 2nd, 22nd, 23rd November
Where: Nick Nairn Cook School, Lochend Estate, Port of Menteith, Stirling FK8 3JZ
Long Table feasts are designed to celebrate international cuisine from some of Nick Nairn’s favourite countries. Held at the Nick Nairn Cook School, guests will be welcomed with drinks and canapes as they watch the skilful chefs prepare a three-course meal.
The schedule includes:
- India on 2nd November Dishes inspired by the north and south of India will include chicken tikka skewers with kuchumber and butter sauce, followed by a main course of smoked pork vindaloo and a Mumbai mess with alphonso mango syrup to finish.
- Mexico on 22nd and 23rd November Showcasing BBQ king prawn tacos, guacamole, pico de gallo and jalapeno and sour cream to start and proper beef chilli with Mexican rice, queso fresco, coriander and lime for the main course. For dessert, there will be Tres leches cake, dulce de leche and whipped cream.
Visit the Nick Nairn website | Follow Nick Nairn on Instagram
4. Emily Sutton’s Toy Shop at The Scottish Gallery in Edinburgh
When: 28 November – 21 December
Where: The Scottish Gallery, 16 Dundas Street, Edinburgh EH3 6HZ
Emily Sutton’s exhibition will feature a new series of paintings, alongside prints and a room filled with memorabilia, furniture and Emily Sutton fabric by St Jude’s, presented as Emily Sutton’s Toy Shop. A beautifully illustrated book has been written and designed by Emily and will launch in December to coincide with the artist’s exhibition.
Visit The Scottish Gallery website | Follow The Scottish Gallery on Instagram | Follow Emily Sutton on Instagram
5. An Evening of Film with the Karrabing Film Collective in Portree, Isle of Skye
When: 20th November from 7pm – 8:30pm
Where: Skye Gatherings Hall, Fancy Hill, Portree, Isle of Skye, IV51 9BZ
The School of Plural Futures and ATLAS Arts are delighted to invite you to a special evening of film and conversation that showcases two films by the Karrabing Film Collective.
As part of their residency in Skye, they will share a selection of powerful works, in conversation with visiting members from the collective. The event is presented in partnership with School of Plural Futures and Arika.
Visit the ATLAS Arts website to learn more
6. Bamboleo steakhouse and wine bar opens in support of Beatson Cancer Charity in Glasgow
When: Opening on 8th November
Where: 149 Milngavie Road in Bearsden, Glasgow
Six Company, the Scottish firm that owns the Six by Nico restaurants, has announced an ambitious development in their ongoing partnership with Beatson Cancer Charity.
By combining top-quality ingredients with traditional Spanish flavours, the steakhouse and wine bar will aim to deliver an exceptional local dining experience in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The two-level, 48-seat restaurant will not only satisfy guests’ taste buds but also help improve the lives of cancer patients and their families.
Visit the Bamboleo website to book | Follow Bamboleo on Instagram
7. Whisky Gigs at The Malt Room in Inverness
When: 23rd November
Where: 34 Chirch Street, Inverness IV1 1EH
Inverness’ only whisky bar welcomes you for an evening of whisky tasting, soundtracked by Scottish folk singer Davy Holt. Guests will enjoy four stand-out single malt whiskies that have been selected by the team at The Malt Room. You will be guided through the whisky and learn about each distillery, its history and the wonderful variety of tasting notes.
Visit The Malt Room website | Follow The Malt Room on Instagram
8. Painter Sheila Fowler at the BIG Christmas Show at Lemond Gallery in Glasgow
When: Friday night preview on 8th November from 6pm – 8:30pm, then open from 9th – 17th November
Where: 4 Thorn Rd, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 4PP
The Lemond Gallery will show painter Sheila Fowler’s most recent works as part of their yearly BIG Christmas exhibition. As one of over 600 artists, Sheila’s beautiful landscapes, seascapes and flowers are sure to stand out, bringing vibrance and romance to the eclectic lineup.
Sheila plays with colour and texture to create pieces that are as captivating as they are pretty – they’d be at home in any room, bringing brightness wherever the canvas hangs.
Visit the Sheila Fowler website | Follow Sheila Fowler on Instagram
9. Wild Gorse Botanical Bell Jar flower arranging class in Belladrum
When: 21st November from 7pm – 9pm
Where: Wild Gorse Studio, The Cart Shed Belladrum Farm by, Beauly IV4 7BA
Working with botanical elements, you will create your own stylised arrangement: a magical world encased in glass that will last forever. A statement piece for your home or captivating gift for a flower lover. All tools and materials will be provided.
Reserve a spot on the Wild Gorse website | Follow Wild Gorse on Instagram
10. Opening of Sebb’s underground bar and restaurant in Glasgow
When: Official opening on 25th November
Where: 68 Miller Street, Glasgow, G1 1DT
Pairing a dedicated cocktail kitchen with a menu focused on food cooked over fire, Sebb’s will be a destination for daytime meals and late night sessions soundtracked by a rotating programme of DJs playing vinyl.
A 50% discount off of food is available for those who dine during their ‘soft launch’ period, between the 19th and 24th November.
Visit the Sebb’s website | Follow Sebb’s on Instagram
11. Upland Made craft fair in Dumfries
When: 2nd November from 12pm – 5pm and Sunday 3rd November from 10am – 4pm
Where: Easterbrook Hall at The Crichton, Bankend Rd, Dumfries DG1 4TA
Upland’s fourth annual visual art and craft fair will feature 40 stands giving shoppers the chance to buy greetings cards, festive decorations and much more, direct from local makers and artists.
Langholm-based OutPost Arts will present workshops led by experienced artists and makers, focusing on the wellbeing benefits of creativity. This activity is supported by the DG Creative Wellbeing project.
Visit the Upland website | Follow Upland on Instagram
12. The LNER Big Wheel returns to Edinburgh for Christmas
When: Open from 15th November – 4th January
Where: East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh
The Big Wheel will tower above the Edinburgh skyline at 46 metres tall, boasting a unique perspective of the spectacular city with views of its historic Old Town, Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat, as well as sparkling evening views of Edinburgh’s Christmas attractions. With 36 enclosed weather-proof pods, families can enjoy a ride on the attraction whatever the weather.
Visit the Ed Winter Fest website for more information about this year’s festive markets
13. Festival of Fashion at The Fife Arms, backdropped by Braemar and The Cairngorms National Park
When: 15th to 17th November
Where: Mar Road, Braemar, Ballater AB35 5YN
The Festival of Fashion’s weekend-long line-up invites visitors to hear from world-renowned speakers, including Dame Anya Hindmarch in conversation with Lisa Armstrong OBE who will explore the challenges of combining creativity and responsibility.
A very special panel discussion between three of Dior’s most prominent design collaborators will explore Dior’s long association with Scotland, from their show in Auchterarder’s Gleneagles Hotel in 1955 to the grounds of Drummond Castle this year for the Cruise 2025 show.
Justine Picardie (author and former Editor in Chief of Harper’s Bazaar) will discuss the depth of our country and culture’s fashion significance.
Another weekend highlight will be from Scottish designer Christopher Kane, who will be in conversation with Susie Lau about the future of fashion, the dynamic potential of modern creative collaborations and the upcoming self-portrait Residency programme for which Kane is the inaugural resident.
Throughout the Festival of Fashion, you can also enjoy Dame Anya Hindmarch’s playful take on the tradition of Afternoon Tea, which for the first time will be available outside the iconic Anya Café in Chelsea, London, and served in The Clunie Dining Room at The Fife Arms.
Find out more by visiting The Fife Arms website | Follow The Fife Arms on Instagram | Follow The Fifie Arms on Facebook
14. The ultimate US-style thanksgiving feast at Duck & Waffle in Edinburgh
When: Thursday 28th November
Where: 400-402 St James Crescent, Edinburgh EH1 3AE
Perhaps you are American, have American friends, or simply want an excuse to eat turkey a month before Christmas. Scots now have the perfect excuse to indulge in a remarkable culinary experience that will leave you thankful – and stuffed – at the Duck & Waffle in Edinburgh.
For one day only, guests can enjoy a Thanksgiving three-course set menu featuring succulent roasted bronze turkey or mushroom & cheddar wellington served with all the trimmings, scrumptious sides and bourbon pecan pie for dessert.
The three-course menu is priced at £40pp.
Visit the Duck & Waffle website | Follow Duck & Waffle on Instagram | Follow Duck & Waffle on Facebook
15. The Shoregate launches limited-time Taste of Scotland menu in Anstruther
When: available until 1st December
Where: 67 High Street, North Crail, Anstruther KY10 3RA
The Shoregate has launched its first seasonal ‘Taste of Scotland’ menu, which takes diners on a tour around Scotland with each course paying homage to a particular region.
Chef Craig McAllister sourced delicacies from around the country when creating the six-course tasting menu, which you can experience until 1st December.
Standing proudly in the centre of Crail, The Shoregate is a coastal gem offering a vibrant space to eat, drink and stay. The historic 18th-century building has been meticulously restored by Nicholas Frost and Damon Reynolds, complete with four stylish guest rooms – three of which have stunning views of Crail and the Firth of Forth.
The six-course tasting menu features:
Arbroath
Arbroath smokie dauphine, cold pressed rapeseed, chive
Mull
Hand-dived scallop, Stornoway black pudding, quince & rosemary
Cairngorms
Auld Reekie espuma, confit Arran Victory, tarragon
Kinloch Rannoch
Roast loin of venison, red cabbage choucroute, butter roasted carrot, haunch stovies
Peterhead
Stone bass, fregula, spiced crab fritter, partan bree.
Dundee
Fruit cake, drunk pears, marmalade ice cream
Islay
Coffee & Ardbeg whisky macaroon
Visit The Shoregate website | Follow The Shoregate on Instagram | Follow The Shoregate on Facebook
16. Artist Gerard Burns shows at Eusebi Deli & Restaurant in Glasgow
When: 13th November – 29th December
Where: 152 Park Road, Glasgow G4 9HB
Eusebi Deli & Restaurant is thrilled to announce a unique limited-time exhibition by celebrated artist Gerard Burns, bringing his evocative and powerful work into the heart of Glasgow.
This immersive experience showcases a decade of Burns’ artistic evolution in the heart of the deli restaurant, with highlights including portraits, myth-inspired works, intricate cityscapes, and still life pieces that celebrate the beauty of everyday life and the spirit of Glasgow.
Find out more by visiting the Eusebi Deli & Restaurant website | Follow Eusebi Deli & Restaurant on Instagram | Follow Eusebi Deli & Restaurant on Facebook
17. V&A Winter Design Market 2024, Dundee
When: 29th November – 1st December
Where: 1 Riverside Esplanade, Dundee DD1 4EZ
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Shop for a new festive favourite and support Scottish design at this year’s Winter Design Market.
Curated by pop-up legends Tea Green Events, the V&A Dundee Design Market is packed to the festive rafters with covetable high quality design across a range of prices.
Featuring work from some of Scotland’s best independent designers and makers – and with some exhibiting in the city for the very first time, including graduates from DJCAD – we promise a market that is all killer, no filler.
Visit the V&A Dundee website | Follow the V&A Dundee on Instagram
Visit the Tea Green website | Follow Tea Green on Instagram | Follow Tea Green on Facebook
18. Twi-LIGHTS enchanted light journey through the Ancient Pinewood Forest at Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Inverness
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When: 23rd November – 5th January, from 4pm – 6pm / 8th – 19th February, from 6pm – 8pm
Where: Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Carrbridge PH23 3AJ
The Ancient Pinewood Forest at Landmark is filled with enchanting lights shows throughout November and through limited periods in February 2025.
A wonderfully festive treat for all the family, this wander through the beautiful pinewood forest is better described as immersive art – it is colourful and exciting, so will enchant adults and spark imagination in children.
Book your post via the Landmark website | Follow Landmark on Instagram | Follow Landmark on Facebook
19. Edinburgh Winter Market by SPOT Design Market
When: 30th November – 1st December, 11am – 4pm
Where: Dovecot studios, 10 Infirmary Street EH1 1LT
Studio Brae, Potterly Studios, Hanato Studio, George Perry Pots, Coolest Slug, Boro and over 40 more makers, artists and designers are due to share their work this weekend at the Edinburgh Winter Market by Glasgow’s favourite SPOT Design Market.
This will be your place to shop for unique Christmas gifts and little treats for yourself that don’t just look beautiful but spark joy for those around you, too. Shopping locally is essential – especially at this time of year – so make sure to pop down to Dovecot Studios this weekend to give local makers and designers some much deserved custom.
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