Scotland is set to shine in 2026 with a captivating lineup of new attractions, world-class events, and soul-stirring experiences. From walking in the footsteps of Outlander’s final season to witnessing the long-awaited opening of the Inverness Castle Experience, visitors will find Scotland bigger, bolder, and more cinematic than ever.
The unveiling of the magnificent Paisley Museum will further elevate the country’s cultural landscape, celebrating a globally renowned design legacy in a striking new setting. On Lewis, the reimagined Calanais Standing Stones Visitor Centre will immerse visitors in ancient wonder, while Glasgow buzzes with the energy of the Commonwealth Games and the vibrant nostalgia of Barbie®: The Exhibition at Kelvingrove Art Gallery. Each corner of the country offers a new way to connect with history, imagination, and community.
Blending heritage with contemporary trends, Scotland embraces everything from noctourism in Galloway’s brand new dark sky observatory to dazzling fashion showcases at V&A Dundee. Whether seeking adventure or a mindful escape, travellers will find experiences that nourish the senses and ignite inspiration. Scotland in 2026 promises to be a year where every moment feels made for the soul, discover the latest trends and experiences by jumping to each section below:
Scotland’s new icons, attractions making headlines in 2026
Culinary tourism, every bite tells a story…
Sleep tourism
Wellness reimagined
Fashion in full focus
Set-Jetting
2026 Events & Festivals
Scotland welcomes the world: new routes & greater access for 2026
Looking ahead to 2027
Scotland’s new icons, attractions making headlines in 2026
*NEW, Paisley Museum, Paisley, late 2026
Preserving Paisley’s remarkable legacy, the Paisley Museum will reopen in 2026 as a world-class visitor attraction at the heart of the town. Home to over 350,000 objects, including the globally unrivalled collection of 1,200 Paisley shawls, studio ceramics, and astronomical instruments, the museum celebrates the town’s rich heritage. As part of its transformation, the museum will share Paisley’s world-changing stories with new audiences, revitalise the High Street, and become a vibrant community hub for learning, creativity, and connection. Look out for even more exciting news from the museum which will be revealed in the coming months!
For those keen to uncover Paisley’s charm check out Paisley Tours, which opened five months ago and take visitors on a journey through the town’s historic streets, revealing its stunning architecture, legendary shawl-making heritage, and hidden cultural gems.
*NEW, The Inverness Castle Experience, Inverness, coming soon
The Inverness Castle Experience will transform the city’s iconic castle into a must-see cultural destination. Once home to courts and a prison, the castle and its esplanade gardens are being reimagined through the rich landscapes, heritage, culture, and people of the Highlands. Visitors will follow the voices of the seanchaidh (storyteller) through the South Tower Experience, discovering stories in every room. The ticket also includes access to contemporary exhibits in the North Tower – Cèilidh Rooms and the North Tower Gallery.
*NEW, Calanais Standing Stones Visitor Centre, Isle of Lewis, spring 2026
The Standing Stones of Calanais are a renowned Neolithic monument known for evoking a powerful, mysterious, and atmospheric feeling in visitors. While their original purpose remains largely a mystery, people report a range of personal and spiritual effects from visiting them. Now, a major new chapter is beginning for the site itself.
The Calanais Visitor Centre on the Isle of Lewis is undergoing a stunning transformation, reopening in spring 2026. This £10.1 million redevelopment will create a state-of-the-art hub that brings the iconic Calanais Standing Stones and their dramatic landscape to life like never before. Visitors can look forward to enhanced exhibitions, a welcoming café, a vibrant shop, and improved accessibility, all designed to celebrate local heritage and culture in fresh, inspiring ways.
*NEW, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Palm House, Edinburgh, 2026
After four years of careful conservation, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is entering an exciting new chapter as its historic Palm Houses reopen. Now transformed into a cathedral-like temperate space, the beautifully restored 19th-century glasshouses will welcome back nearly 600 extraordinary plants, from delicate begonias to towering palms and lush ferns, each meticulously nurtured during the restoration. This highly anticipated redevelopment significantly elevates the experience, making it a must-see for both visitors and locals keen to explore the Garden’s new offering. Guests will embark on a captivating journey, uncovering the stories behind each specimen, enjoying stunning films, and exploring the collection through guided multimedia tours.
Culinary tourism, every bite tells a story…
Food touring continues to thrive in 2026, with the art of discovering a place through its flavours as compelling as ever. Scotland has it all, from a luxury new private dining experience in Edinburgh’s floating hotel, to the opening of a new distillery in the Outer Hebrides that uses seaweed botanicals, Scotland’s culinary scene is brimming with innovation and authenticity.
Bakery tourism has been enjoying a growing presence too, with travellers choosing to replace bar-hopping for bakery-hopping, especially when the pastries are as aesthetically pleasing as they are mouth-watering. Think of Lannan Bakery in Edinburgh, where the line often curls down the street and every minute of the wait pays off. For many, these beautifully crafted bakes aren’t just treats; they’re destinations in their own right. And Scotland has more where that comes from, with standout bakeries popping up across the country, making 2026 the perfect year to explore the city’s ever-growing pastry scene.
Curious about the latest Shelf Discovery trend? To ‘eat like a local’ now means heading to a destination’s snack aisle to uncover the most unique and quirky edible souvenirs. After a visit to Scotland, delight family and friends with Scotland’s favourite fizzy drink, Irn-Bru, a packet of haggis flavoured crisps, or some whisky-infused cheese… for more inspiration check out Scotland Loves Local.
*NEW, Isle of Barra Distillery, Isle of Barra, October 2026
This £12 million development transforms this Outer Hebridean icon into a full-scale whisky distillery, visitor centre, café, and retail space. Alongside the thrill of arriving on the Isle of Barra via its world-famous beach runway (one of the most unique airport approaches in the world!), visitors can explore a distillery that celebrates Scotland’s unique coastal flavours with sustainably sourced seaweed botanicals and honey vodka, offering a taste of the island’s heritage.
*NEW, Cromlix restaurant, Dunblane, May 2026
Cromlix, the five star country house hotel in Dunblane, owned by Scottish Tennis legend Andy Murray, has begun building work on its new 60-cover restaurant. Due to open in May 2026, the restaurant will sit alongside the main lawn, overlooking the spectacular Estate and its gardens. Diners will feel immersed in the landscape of the beautiful Scottish countryside, whilst eating the best locally sourced produce; much of it grown in the hotel’s own Kitchen Garden. Cromlix will also be adding a small, intimate fine-dining restaurant, three additional bedroom suites and a wellness cottage.
*Now open, Galloway Distillery, Dumfries & Galloway
Sam Heughan, actor, philanthropist and owner of The Sassenach Spirits, has announced the launch of his new distillery in his hometown of Galloway. Sam and the distillery team will significantly develop and expand the visitor offering over the coming 12 – 14 months, so that it becomes a signature attraction and an ultimate destination for the South of Scotland.
*Now open, Lannan Pantry, Edinburgh
A new venture from Edinburgh’s acclaimed Lannan Bakery, a titan in Edinburgh’s bakery scene and a prime example of bakery tourism, situated next door in Stockbridge is Lannan Pantry. This new retail space offers a curated selection of seasonal groceries and homewares, many of which are used in the bakery’s offerings, promoting a zero-waste approach.
*Now open, Eden Mill Distillery, Fife
Just outside St Andrews on the banks of the Eden Estuary, Eden Mill unveiled its new state-of-the-art distillery and visitor centre on 11 October 2025. Fully operational for gin and single malt whisky, the site offers guided tours, immersive tasting experiences, a top-floor cocktail bar with panoramic estuary views called “The Lookout”, and a golf simulator. Built sustainably with 100% renewable electricity, Eden Mill blends traditional flavours with modern, low-carbon design.
*Now open, Glencadam Distillery, Angus
Glencadam Distillery has unveiled a brand-new visitor centre in Brechin to celebrate 200 years of whisky making heritage. Newly opened on 15 November 2025, visitors can enjoy guided tours, tutored tastings and an interactive exhibition, tracing Glencadam’s journey from its 1825 origins to its place among Scotland’s most celebrated single malts today.
*Now open, Stornoway Distillers Co., Isle of Lewis
Stornoway Distillers Co. have opened a gin distillery right in the heart of Lewis. Visitors can enjoy tastings and even distil their own gin using local Hebridean botanicals. A spirited way to connect with the island’s natural elements.
*Now open, Dishoom, Glasgow
The much-anticipated Glasgow outpost of the beloved Bombay café-style restaurant group Dishoom opened its doors in August 2025. Set inside the striking Grade A-listed former Glasgow Stock Exchange building, the two-floor venue captures a 1950s Bombay espionage narrative. The all-day menu marries Dishoom’s signature dishes — think Bacon Naan Rolls and House Black Daal — with Glasgow-exclusive creations like the Haggis Pau and a butter-oat-fat-washed whisky twist on the Rob Roy.
*Now open, Fingal Chef’s Table in the Bridge, Edinburgh
Fingal’s original Bridge has been developed into a thoughtfully designed new private dining experience, offering a tailored and immersive gastronomic journey for guests, inspired by Fingal’s working life at sea. Chef’s Table in The Bridge (previously the ship’s busy command centre) will be an interactive experience designed for 6 to 10 guests to enjoy a tasting menu tailored to the season.
*Now open, Dogstar, Edinburgh
Dogstar newly opened in November 2025 at 17 Portland Place, Leith, Edinburgh. Replacing the long-closed Portland Bar, it is the collaborative project of Michelin-starred chef James Murray and Kyle Jamieson and Michael Lynch, the team behind Nauticus Bar. Dogstar offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience, featuring an à la carte menu focused on “thoughtful, simple, and hyper-seasonal food”.
Sleep Tourism
Sleep tourism puts rest and rejuvenation at the heart of travel. As more travellers look to switch off and restore balance, Scotland’s tranquil landscapes and latest hotel offerings provide the perfect backdrop for a restful escape. With remarkably low light pollution, quiet landscapes and the fresh aroma of Scotland’s great outdoors, the country invites visitors to slow down and breathe.
From lochside lodges to countryside hideaways, Scotland’s natural calm and slower pace make it the ideal place to unwind, recharge and embrace the art of good sleep:
*NEW, The Marcliffe, Aberdeen, early 2026
The Marcliffe is undertaking a multi-million-pound upgrade designed to elevate its status as Aberdeen’s only five-star hotel. The centrepiece is a striking glass-domed indoor-outdoor dining space in the hotel’s courtyard, featuring a central bar and all-weather seating designed to gently blend the hotel’s traditional Scottish character with modern luxury. Alongside that, upgrades include refreshed guest rooms and luxury suites.
*Now open, Murrayshall Country Estate Luxury Pods, Perthshire
A transformative £30 million project has introduced a collection of luxury pods at the heart of the Scottish countryside, creating a serene escape that marries modern comfort with natural beauty. Thoughtfully designed for privacy and space, each pod offers indoor/outdoor living, underfloor heating, air conditioning, and contemporary amenities, while embracing the surrounding Perthshire landscapes. Murrayshall continues to enchant with award-winning dining, two exceptional parkland golf courses and upcoming wellness and leisure experiences, establishing itself as a premier retreat where heritage, luxury, and adventure intertwine seamlessly.
*NEW, The Kithmore, St Andrews, summer 2026
The Kithmore Hotel is a newly reimagined luxury hotel in St Andrews, set to open in summer 2026, transforming the former Ardgowan Hotel on Playfair Terrace. With 44 bespoke bedrooms, a 60-cover bar & restaurant, and an expanded terrace, it aims to combine modern design with warm, Scottish hospitality. The name “Kithmore” is drawn from the Scots word “Kith,” evoking feelings of friendship, familiarity and home, offering a relaxed haven for golfers, locals and visitors alike, just steps from the Old Course.
*NEW, Ruby Hotel, Edinburgh, spring 2026
Opening on Edinburgh’s legendary Princes Street, the new Ruby Hotel will redefine urban chic with around 300 elegantly designed rooms spread across seven floors. Guests can unwind on the rooftop terrace while soaking in panoramic views of the city’s crown jewels, Edinburgh Castle and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town.
*NEW, Clayton Hotel, Edinburgh, late 2026
The Clayton Hotel at St Andrew’s Square, Edinbur
*NEW, Edinburgh 16-20, Edinburgh, Spring 2026
The Edinburgh 16-20 is a new luxurious 28-bedroom hotel in Castle Street, Edinburgh that is due to open in spring 2026. With a view of the mighty fortress on Castle Rock, the townhouse style hotel will have a private members club feel, and will offer a first-class concierge service. Each room/suite will be in one of two styles in Emerald or Ruby and will range in size from 19 sq metres up to 43 sq metres. Designed by Edinburgh-based interior designer Malcolm Duffin Design.
*Now open, Ardbeg House, Islay
In September 2025, Ardbeg Distillery opened its boutique 12-bedroom hotel, Ardbeg House. Just a short hop from the Distillery on Islay, this world-class whisky and hospitality experience blends the ultimate in Scottish hospitality with the flavours and legends of Ardbeg’s island world. Each individually themed bedroom draws on Islay’s rugged heritage and the brand’s 200-plus-year story, while local craftsmanship and imaginative design mark every corner of the property. With bookings now open, Ardbeg House offers both whisky devotees and first-time visitors a one-of-a-kind island retreat that promises to deepen their love for Islay and its smoky single malts.
*Now open, The Law, North Berwick
A new chapter has begun in the heart of North Berwick with the opening of The Law, a stylish bar, restaurant, and boutique hotel housed within the beautifully restored former County Hotel, which first opened its doors in 1815. Relaunched in September 2025, this elegant venue blends timeless character with contemporary comfort.
Inside, two inviting bars and a relaxed restaurant serve as the social heart of the property, while 11 individually designed en-suite rooms, each named after a celebrated Scottish malt whisky, offer a warm and refined stay. The hotel is designed as a family and dog-friendly destination, with one of the town’s largest outdoor beer gardens making it an excellent stay-and-eat option while exploring North Berwick and its coastline.
Wellness reimagined…
Wellness in Scotland comes in countless forms; each as individual as those seeking it. From quiet forest walks to spa escapes, sensory adventures, and slow-travel discoveries, Scotland offers moments to truly reset. Across shimmering lochs, wild Highlands, and windswept coasts, it’s about getting close to nature, uncovering hidden gems, and savouring the moment, whether slipping into a floating sauna on Loch Tay, or exploring noctourism adventures gazing at the stars in Galloway Forest Park’s new observatory, every experience is sure to leave a lasting sense of calm, connection, and wonder.
*Now open, Taymouth Marina Floating Sauna, Perthshire
In 2025, Taymouth Marina unveiled its pioneering “HotBoat”, the UK’s first floating wood-fired sauna cruise on Loch Tay, marrying wild-nature wellness with ultra-luxury escape. Set against panoramic Highland scenery, the bespoke vessel invites guests to relax in a richly appointed sauna, then plunge into the loch water, before drifting through the glistening waters of Loch Tay with views of Ben Lawers and Glen Lyon.
*Now open, SOBR, Aberdeen
Scotland’s first alcohol-free bar, SOBR, brings a fresh perspective to socialising in the heart of Aberdeen. Located on Thistle Street, this stylish art-deco space offers a vibrant selection of zero-alcohol wines, beers, and handcrafted mocktails. Designed for connection and relaxation, SOBR blends the energy of nightlife with the principles of wellness, creating an atmosphere where every detail celebrates mindful living.
*Now open, Wild Spa, Callendar
A new wellness experience awaits on the tranquil shores of Loch Venachar. Positioned to capture panoramic views, the sauna’s rear window frames majestic landscapes, creating an unforgettable backdrop for relaxation. Two ice-bath options elevate the experience: nature’s own Loch Venachar and a handcrafted red-cedar cold plunge, maintained at a bracing 3°C.
*NEW, Spa at The Waterside Hotel, Ayrshire, early 2026
Launching early 2026, The Waterside Hotel will unveil a luxurious seafront spa just 40 minutes from Glasgow. Overlooking sweeping sands and endless sea views, the retreat will feature six treatment rooms, a four-person Rasul, and serene spaces flowing from indoors to out.
Highlights include a sea-view sauna, hydro pool, and cascading experience showers, with outdoor calm beside a sheltered firepit and open-air shower. This addition marks the latest stage in the hotel’s transformation, following a refurbished restaurant and a striking 17-bedroom sea-view extension.
*NEW, Harmony Fields Holistic Retreat, Stirlingshire, May 2026
Immerse in a day of restoration and connection at Harmony Fields, surrounded by tranquil landscapes and gentle animals. From 11am to 6pm, four expert practitioners guide guests through ceremonies, meditation, and Reiki, alongside workshops and treatments designed to nurture body and mind.
Highlights include herbal foraging walks, remedy-making, glamour magic, massage tasters, Indian head massage, and oracle readings. Between sessions, enjoy a stream-side plunge pool, picnic spaces, market stalls, and peaceful time with the Harmony Herd. Overnight camping is available for those wishing to extend the experience. Spaces are limited to keep the retreat intimate.
