4 of the best… Scottish Festivals

From large scale events like Rockness to intimate coastal gatherings such as Loopallu, here's our pick of our favourite North of the Border festivals. 

Rockness

Situated in a picturesque valley on the banks of Loch Ness, Rockness (main image) boasts one of the most perfect festival locations in the world. A mid sized festival with massive line-ups that wouldn't be out of place at an event three times its size, Rockness offers an eclectic choice of music covering everything from indie to drum n bass. Acts confirmed so far for this year include Example, Basement Jaxx, Madness, The Vaccines, Bombay Bicycle Club and Ellie Goulding. Weekend tickets from £139. 7th - 9th June, Loch Ness. Buy Rockness tickets.

Wickerman

Now in its 12th year, The Wickerman Festival is a mid sized, family friendly event with a consistently eclectic line-up that offers something for everyone - with big name main stage headliners, an excellent dance arena and plenty of smaller stages showcasing everything from folk to ska. Taking its inspiration from the film of the same name , the festival's most striking feature is its 50ft Wickerman sculpture that towers over the festival from a nearby hilltop and is ceremoniously set alight against a spectacular firework display on the final night. This year's line-up is looking to be one of their biggest yet, with Primal Scream already confirmed to headline on the Friday night. Weekend tickets start at just £95. 26th-27th June 2013, Dundrennan. Buy Wickerman tickets

Belladrum

Also known as the Tartan Heart Festival, Belladrum celebrates its 10th year in 2013 - so it's sure to be a helluva party. A relaxed weekend of music and activities for all the family, Belladrum has gathered a loyal following of festival goers over the last decade, who return year on year to the beautiful Highland festival site. The line-up for this year is yet to be announced, but organisers are sure to be pulling out all the stops to make the 10th anniversary one to remember. Weekend tickets from £95. 2nd - 3rd August, Beauly, Invernesshire. Buy Belladrum tickets.

Loopallu

Taking place in the remote coastal village of Ullapool every September, Loopallu combines a breathtaking West Coast setting with a friendly, intimate atmosphere and surprisingly big acts for its size. No line-up details have yet been announced for this year, but with previous acts including Franz Ferdinand, Pauolo Nutini, The View, Mumford & Sons and Scouting For Girls, you can be sure that it's going to be another great year. Don't forget to check out the fringe festival which happens in the village pubs around the festival site, and is always good for a few surprise appearances. Weekend tickets from £65. 20-21 September, Ullapool. Buy Loopallu tickets.

Find more 2013 festival tickets 

Go to Skiddle's Festival Guide