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Treat your mum to an unforgettable stay in Scotland for Mother’s Day.

If you’re struggling to think of Mother’s Day gifts, what better way to make your mum feel special than with a stay in glorious Scotland?

Scotland is home to beautiful landscapes speckled with imposing mountain peaks, historic castles, vast lochs, ideal for adventurous mums. As well as luxury spas, distilleries, and welcoming restaurants for those looking for something more relaxing.

Continue reading to find out all you need to know about Mother’s Day in Scotland…


When is Mother’s Day 2023?

Close-up of woman receiving Mother's day greeting card from her daughter.

Much like the rest of the UK, Scotland celebrates Mother’s Day on the 4th Sunday of Lent, which this year falls on March 19th.

The occasion is usually marked with gifts, cards, meals, and days out to celebrate the most important person in your life.


How do you say Happy Mother’s Day in Scottish?

If you want to wish the most special person in your life Happy Mother’s Day in Scottish Gaelic, you can say ‘Latha màthair math‘.


Things to do on Mother’s Day in Scotland

1. Afternoon Tea at The Corinthian, Glasgow

If you’re looking to spend some quality time with mum on the special day, where better than The Corinthian?

This former bank and high court is one of the most sought-after venues in Glasgow. Comprised of Tellers Bar & Brasserie, The Flying Scotsman, Boutique Gin Bar, Charlie Parker’s, and a beautiful Rooftop Terrace.

Join The Corinthian this Mother’s Day for their special Mother’s Day menu or afternoon tea, where mum will even get a complimentary glass of fizz!


2. The Gleneagles, Aucterarder

The next addition to our guide is sure to impress when looking for Mother’s Day gifts, the luxury Gleneagles Hotel.

If you fancy treating mum to a spot of fine dining, then The Strathearn is the perfect place. Experience a culinary journey surrounded by beautiful decor and music in one of Scotland’s best restaurants.

If you’d prefer a more relaxed dining setting, there is The Birnam, serving pastas and American and Italian dishes. As well as The Dormy, with its pizzas and curries, and The Garden Cafe where you’ll find light lunches and homemade cakes.

For the ultimate pamper, be sure to check out the spa. Offering an extensive menu of treatments, swimming pools, a sauna, a relaxation courtyard, and a gym.


3. Moray Firth Dolphin Boat Trips, Inverness

 

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If you fancy arranging something truly unique for Mother’s Day, what about organising a boat trip to spot the Moray Firth dolphins?

Sit back and relax as you take to the waters to spot not only dolphins, but porpoises, whales, and an array of bird life too! Paired with beautiful surroundings, this Mother’s Day gift is sure to be a hit!

After your boat trip, if you want to learn more about the dolphins head to the Scottish Dolphin Centre. Found at Spey Bay, this attraction allows you to see the dolphins on live web cams, watch film screenings, and listen to recordings.


4. The Craft Pottery, Glasgow

 

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Tucked away in the city centre of Glasgow is the charming Craft Pottery studio. Spend some one-on-one time with your mum by booking a limited edition pottery making workshop or a class, where you can learn how to create your own pieces.

Classes are split into beginner and intermediate, so don’t worry if it’s something you’re trying for the first time!

You can also book in to a paint your own pot shop, where you and mum can create your very own designs to treasure forever!


5. Culzean Castle, Maybole

If your mum prefers more historic ventures, then look no further than the magnificent Culzean Castle & Country Park. Set on the Ayrshire cliffs, this exceptional building was designed by the great architect, Robert Adam.

The castle was built for the tenth Earl of Cassillis, and is surrounded by 260ha of estate. Including picturesque woodlands, beaches, a deer park, and a Swan Pond. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds as you spot the local wildlife and discover secret follies.

Be sure to explore the castles interior, where you can marvel at the opulent Oval Staircase, the Round Drawing Room, and the large collection of flintlock pistols.


6. Loch Ness Cruise, Scottish Highland

 

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For more adventurous mums, a cruise along the famous Loch Ness would make for the perfect Mother’s Day gift!

Sit back with a drink and relax as you take in your stunning surroundings, where you’ll catch glimpses of the fascinating Fort Augustus Abbey and Urquhart Castle. You can also look forward to listening to tales and trying to spot the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

After your trip, why not check out some of the nearby attractions of the Falls of Foyers, the Loch Ness Alpacas, and the Ness Islands. For further inspiration, read our blog on around Loch Ness.


7. Cameron House Hotel, Loch Lomond

Settled on the edges of the world-famous Loch Lomond is the luxury Cameron House Hotel. Where better to treat your mum on Mother’s Day than this opulent 5-star venue?

Celebrate in style with a tasty three-course Sunday Lunch in the Cameron Grill, to the soundtrack of a live pianist. Mum will also receive a complimentary drink on arrival, she is the VIP after all!

The hotel also offers four further bar areas where you can relax with a drink as you enjoy the incomparable views. As well as three further restaurants, afternoon tea, and a 29-seat cinema, perfect for relaxing in front of a film after Sunday lunch. If you fancy a pamper, the hotel’s luxury spa can be found approximately 3 miles away, where you can enjoy an array of treatments, soak up the views from the rooftop infinity pool, or dine in the Cafe Spa.


8. The Kitchin, Edinburgh

 

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If you’re still in search of mother’s day gifts for foodie mums, a meal at The Kitchin is sure to impress! This Michelin Star restaurant is highly regarded and enjoys a beautiful location in the heart of Edinburgh.

Formerly a whiskey warehouse, chef Tom Kitchin uses French techniques on locally sourced produce to create gastronomic delights!

From the varied Surprise Tasting Menu, to freshly cooked Red Mullet and Waygu, you will be spoilt for choice!

After dinner, why not enjoy a walk along the waterfront, or head into the city centre where you and mum can indulge in a spot of retail therapy, visit Edinburgh Castle, or enjoy a gin or whiskey tasting!


9. 1881 Distillery & Gin School, Peebles

Pay a visit to the idyllic town of Peebles in the Scottish Borders, where you’ll find the much loved 1881 Distillery & Gin School. The distillery is housed in the Peebles Hydro Hotel, whilst the gin school is set on the site of the original Victorian swimming pool.

Treat mum to a tour of the distillery, which starts with a glass of gin and tonic of course, before delving into the world and history of gin!

If you fancy getting hands on, you can book a Gin Distillery Experience, where you can enjoy a welcome meal, tour, and create your own bottle of bespoke gin. Mum is sure to love it!


10. Glenapp Castle, Girvan

Plan a Mother’s Day celebration fit for a queen at the esteemed Glenapp Castle. The whole family can enjoy a delicious three-course lunch that the royals would be envious of in the stunning 130-year-old Azalea Glasshouse.

As if that wasn’t enough, the castles professional photographer will be on hand to capture a photo of you and the family to take home with you to remember the day.

Be sure to pre-book this popular event!


Feeling inspired by our guide to Mother’s Day in Scotland? Check out our selection of luxury holiday cottages and cottages with hot tub which are sure to make mum feel special!

If you’re looking for more things to do during your stay in Scotland, read our guide on places to see the Aurora Borealis in Scotland.

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