Six things everyone in Scotland does when the weather is hot and sunny

Daily Record

11-05-2025

With the mercury rising across the country, these will all look familiar.
Scotland has been soaking up plenty of sun in recent weeks. While there have been cold and wet spells, overall we have been relatively lucky so far this year.
The first day of warm weather of the year in Scotland is always a flurry of activity. With summer on the horizon, things are likely to only heat up from here.
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Anyone who lives in or grew up in Scotland will be well aware of how Scots act when the temperature rises. In conditions that people from other countries would consider mild or even cold, we strip down to our vests and shorts and head outside for some sunbathing.
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The Daily Record has rounded up a few things people in Scotland tend to do on a hot day. No matter where you live in the country, you are bound to recognise at least a few.
weather warms up.
Hit the beach
Every year, once the weather warms up even a tiny bit, Scots decide it is time for a trip to the beach. After all, we know that it won't be long until the rain is back.
Luckily, no matter whereabouts in Scotland you are, there are bound to be beaches where you can soak up some sun that aren't too far away. You don't need to just head to the coast, either, as many of Scotland's lochs provide sandy beaches where you can sit and enjoy the views.
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Head to a beer garden
Like the beach, Scots tend to feel a bit of warmth on their skin and decide it is time for a visit to a beer garden. Over the summer months, outdoor spaces at pubs and bars across the country are packed with people trying to enjoy a pint while feeling bathing in the sun.
If you are struggling to think of a good beer garden to head to, we previously reported on four that were named the best in the country. Scotland Now's Alexander Smail also recently wrote about his experience at a "hidden gem" beer garden in the heart of Glasgow.
Taps aff
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There is a reason the phrase 'taps aff' is so famous in Scotland, particularly Glasgow. For those unfamiliar, it refers to the removal of one's t-shirt in warm weather.
Even over the summer months, hot temperatures are a rarity in Scotland. Therefore, as soon as the mercury rises even a little bit, you will find that people all over the country take off their shirts to celebrate the heat.
Rush to buy ice cream or lollies
While ice cream is great all throughout the year, it just tastes better when conditions are hot. Every Scot has their own personal favourite frozen treat, whether it is a 99 with a flake or a fruity freeze pop.
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Many Scots will know the pain of running to their local corner shop to pick up an ice lolly to cool down with only to find they have already sold out. If you are really desperate, you can always pour some fruit juice in a mould and leave in the freezer for a few hours.
Enjoy a disposable barbecue
Those who live anywhere near a public park will know all too well that when the temperature rises Scots love a disposable barbecue. They may not be the highest of quality, but somehow the food always tastes incredible—burnt or not.
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If you are planning to enjoy a disposable barbecue with friends or family this summer, make sure you are allowed to first. You may well find that your local park has banned the use of them out of environmental or fire concerns.
Blast music in the park
Anybody in Scotland who has ever had the idea of doing a bit of sunbathing on the grass on a sunny day will be well aware of this one. As soon as the sun starts shining, groups of Scots rock up to their local park with a loudspeaker.
The speakers may look small, but you could be forgiven for thinking you are TRNSMT with how loud they can get. Hopefully you like the music playing, or else you might need to find a quieter spot to sit.