New attractions, hotels, events and celebrations are in store this year throughout Scotland, making 2025 the best year to visit this beautiful country.

Glasgow’s 850^th Anniversary

This year marks the UNESCO City of Music’s 850^th anniversary. Expect many events and activities celebrating this milestone. The opening night of celebrations, Celtic Connections, is a concert paying tribute to the city’s rich artistic heritage. 

© VisitScotland

New Museum in Renfrewshire

Head to the place where paisley first emerged in the Western world and explore the history and heritage of paisley at the soon-to-open Paisley Museum. This museum first opened in the 19^th century and will reopen following a major investment and transformation.

New Hotels

The Lost Shore Surf Resort officially opened late last year in Edinburgh, inviting guests (especially surf enthusiasts seeking an escape) to indulge in luxurious accommodations, a wellness spa, a state-of-the-art surf lake and more. Edinburgh also welcomes The Hoxton, a series of Georgian townhouses. Seaton House in St. Andrews is slated to debut this February, while The Waterside Hotel in West Kilbride opens its doors this spring. East Kilbride will soon be home to Crossbasket Castle, and Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort launches in Renfrewshire this spring. Other new properties include Pine Trees Hotel in Perthshire, Forest Holidays Log Cabins in Glentress and Murrayshall Country Estate’s new luxury pod accommodations in Perthshire. 

© VisitScotland

New and Improved The Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh will soon open a new visitor center and shop, featuring never-before-seen images and films. The gift shop will sell Royal and heritage gifts, including treasures inspired by Britannia. 

New and Reopening Distilleries

Lerwick Distillery in Shetland, the region’s first whisky distillery, is now open, with full operations planned to follow and single malt whisky production beginning next year. The Lerwick Distillery team intend to fully complete the space this year, with tours and tastings to launch in the coming years. Highland Park Distillery in Orkney reopens this year following a series of significant developments. Not a fan of whisky? Edinburgh Gin Distillery opened its doors this past winter. Other new distilleries recently opened or soon to open include Eden Mill Distillery, Jackton Distillery, Rosebank Distillery and Arbikie Distillery Sustainable Experience.