Hogmanay in Fort Augustus 2026–2027: What’s On Around Loch Ness?

Spending New Year in Fort Augustus? What a lovely place to welcome 2027! Think cosy pubs, beautiful winter walks beside Loch Ness, a proper Scottish ceilidh and even a New Year’s Day dip for the brave.

If you're staying with Highland Club Direct, here's our informal guide to things happening in and around Fort Augustus for Thursday 31 December 2026 and Friday 1 January 2027. We've included organisers' links so you can check the latest details directly.

Hogmanay at The Lovat Hotel, Fort Augustus

31 December 2026 – 2 January 2027

Right here in the village, The Lovat is welcoming 2027 with special dining at Station Road, live music, Scottish ceilidh dancing and midnight fireworks. Sounds like a wonderful Highland celebration!

Good to know: The advertised programme is a two-night residential package, not a separately advertised village party. If you're already staying at The Highland Club, ask The Lovat whether any restaurant or event access is available to non-residents before making plans.

See The Lovat's Hogmanay programme or telephone 01456 459250.

New Year's Day Loch Ness Dook

Friday 1 January 2027, 12 noon

Fancy starting the year with a splash? The Lovat is advertising a New Year's Day dook in Loch Ness at noon. Whether you're taking part or just cheering on the brave souls, it's certainly a memorable way to begin the year.

Please contact the organisers for the exact meeting point, participation arrangements and safety guidance. Loch Ness is extremely cold in winter: don't attempt an unsupervised swim.

New Year's Day dook details at The Lovat.

Cosy Pubs in Fort Augustus for Hogmanay

Prefer to stay local? The village has some lovely places for a drink or a relaxed meal, just a stroll from The Highland Club.

The Lock Inn

Right by the Caledonian Canal locks, The Lock Inn offers food, Scottish whiskies and a cosy fireside atmosphere. It's a lovely place to head for a warming dram. Ask the team about New Year's Eve opening hours and any special plans.

The Lock Inn website | 01320 366302

The Bothy

The Bothy is another central village option beside the canal, with Scottish pub food and a friendly atmosphere. Ask directly about festive service and whether any live entertainment is planned.

Find The Bothy and its contact details | 01320 366710

At the time of writing, we haven't found a confirmed 2026 New Year's Eve entertainment programme for these pubs. Please check directly rather than assuming that an event is scheduled.

Fancy a Proper Scottish Ceilidh? Daviot Steading

Thursday 31 December 2026 — near Inverness

If you've never been to a Scottish ceilidh, Hogmanay is the perfect excuse! Daviot Steading, south of Inverness, is hosting an evening with the Highland Fire Ceilidh Band. There's a caller to talk everyone through the dances, so beginners are very welcome.

Choose ceilidh-only tickets (£35 per adult) or dinner and dancing (£85 per adult). Dinner begins around 7.15pm, dancing around 9.30pm, and celebrations finish at approximately 12.30am. Under-18s may attend with an adult on the dinner-and-dance option; dance-only tickets are for adults.

It's a drive from Fort Augustus, so plan transport and your return journey carefully.

Daviot Steading Hogmanay details and tickets.

Exploring Further? Hogmanay at The Cluanie Inn, Glen Shiel

31 December 2026 – 2 January 2027

If you're making a longer Highland trip, The Cluanie Inn in beautiful Glen Shiel has advertised a two-night New Year stay including breakfast, a food-and-drink credit and relaxed festive experiences.

This is a residential package, rather than a confirmed open-to-everyone Hogmanay party. If you are based in Fort Augustus, check with the inn about any dining options for non-residents.

See The Cluanie Inn's Hogmanay offer.

Clachaig Inn's Hogmanay Hoolie, Glencoe

Thursday 31 December 2026, 10pm – 1am

For a lively Highland night further afield, the famous Clachaig Inn in Glencoe is advertising its Hogmanay Hoolie, with traditional Scottish tunes in the Bidean Lounge and rock and blues in the Boots Bar. There is no advertised entry charge for the bar celebrations, although the Boots Bar is for over-18s.

Glencoe is a substantial drive from Fort Augustus. This one makes most sense if you're already exploring the area or arranging accommodation nearby rather than driving back late at night.

Clachaig Inn December events.

A Peaceful New Year's Day Beside Loch Ness

Not everyone wants a big night out — and we completely understand! A quiet New Year at Fort Augustus can be just as special. Wander beside the Caledonian Canal, take in the winter views over Loch Ness, enjoy a village coffee if somewhere is open, or simply settle in for a cosy afternoon with your favourite people.

There's something rather magical about welcoming a new year within the historic grounds of St Benedict's Abbey, home of The Highland Club.

Our Top Tips for New Year in Fort Augustus

• Book early. Special dinners and ceilidh tickets can sell out.
• Check what's actually open. Festive opening hours may differ from the usual ones.
• Ask before travelling. Some advertised hotel celebrations are reserved for overnight guests.
• Plan transport in advance. Late-night taxis and winter journeys can be challenging.
• Pack warm layers. Highland weather can change quickly, and roads may be icy.

Spending New Year at The Highland Club?

Whether you're visiting as a couple, meeting friends or enjoying a family gathering, Fort Augustus is a wonderful base for a Loch Ness New Year. Enjoy the celebrations, discover the surrounding Highlands and return to the comfort of your own apartment or cottage.

Considering a future festive getaway? Explore Highland Club Direct accommodation beside Loch Ness and book directly with us.

Wishing you a very Happy Hogmanay and a wonderful 2027 from all of us at Highland Club Direct!

Information checked November 2026. Events, prices, admission policies and times may change. Please confirm arrangements with each organiser before booking or travelling.