Hogmanay, Scotland’s celebration of New Year, is one of the country’s most distinctive cultural traditions. On the Isle of Mull, Hogmanay is marked by community gatherings, music, and a reflective atmosphere. While celebrations in larger cities are known for their scale, Mull offers a quieter and more local experience. Visitors may find ceilidhs in village halls, gatherings in pubs, and people coming together to welcome the new year in a relaxed island setting.
The history of Hogmanay
The origins of Hogmanay are rooted in older Scottish traditions, including winter celebrations that marked renewal and the arrival of longer days. First footing remains one of the best-known customs. The first visitor to cross a threshold after midnight brings symbolic gifts such as whisky, shortbread, or coal to wish the household good fortune. Across Scotland, Hogmanay focuses on clearing out the old year and welcoming the new with warmth and hospitality.
Village celebrations
Villages across Mull celebrate Hogmanay in their own ways. In Tobermory, pubs such as Macgochans often feature live music, dancing, and festive food. The Bellachroy in Dervaig, one of Mull’s historic inns, provides a cosy setting for locals and visitors to gather. Community-led events also take place in villages such as Bunessan and Craignure, usually informal and welcoming to anyone who wants to join.
Ceilidhs and bonfires
Ceilidhs are a central part of Hogmanay celebrations on Mull, bringing communities together with traditional music and dancing. Bonfires also take place in some areas, reflecting long-standing Scottish customs that associate fire with marking the turning of the year. These gatherings vary by village, and visitors often find details shared locally in the days leading up to New Year.
Sunrise walks, sea dips and New Year’s Day
Many people on Mull welcome New Year’s Day by heading outdoors, whether for a coastal walk or a visit to one of the island’s scenic viewpoints. There is no formal tradition attached, but enjoying the landscape is a common way to begin the year. Popular spots include Calgary Bay, forest trails around Aros Park, and hill paths across the island.
In Craignure, locals and visitors sometimes mark the day with an informal loony dook, taking a bracing dip in the sea near the Isle of Mull Hotel. This is not an official event, but those who take part enjoy it as a lively and refreshing start to the year. Tobermory has also seen similar informal New Year dips in the past, and groups such as Swim Mull may organise or promote community swims from time to time.
Food and drink
Festive food and drink are part of Hogmanay across Mull. Restaurants such as Macgochans and The Bellachroy offer seasonal menus that often showcase local produce including venison and seafood. The Western Isles Hotel also hosts a special New Year’s Eve Dinner, which is a popular choice for visitors. Whisky is a traditional part of the celebration, and Tobermory Distillery provides a distinctly local option. Booking ahead is advisable during the holiday period.
Church services and reflection
Churches on Mull, including Tobermory Parish Church and Our Lady, Star of the Sea, hold services throughout the festive season. These provide an opportunity for quiet reflection and are open to visitors. Service times vary, so it is best to check local noticeboards or parish information before attending.
Travel and accommodation
Travelling to Mull over New Year requires advance planning. Ferries operate on reduced schedules, and winter weather can cause delays. Accommodation is limited during the festive period, particularly in popular areas such as Tobermory and Dervaig. Visitors should book early and ensure they have enough supplies, as shops close for the holiday and usually reopen on January 2nd.
Weather and safety
Mull’s winter weather is changeable, with rain, wind and occasional frost. Those joining walks or outdoor gatherings should dress warmly, carry a torch and check the forecast. Mobile signal can be limited in remote areas, so letting someone know your route is advisable.
Hogmanay traditions to look for
Traditional Scottish customs such as first footing and singing Auld Lang Syne remain part of Hogmanay on Mull. Many communities also exchange small gifts or tokens of good luck after midnight. These traditions link modern celebrations with Scotland’s wider New Year heritage.
Starting the Year on Mull
Hogmanay on Mull offers a relaxed and welcoming start to the year. Whether enjoying a ceilidh, gathering in a village pub, taking a coastal walk or joining the Craignure loony dook, visitors experience a celebration shaped by community and the island’s landscape. It is a memorable way to welcome the year ahead.
Tobermory Dram Recipe
Ingredients
50ml Tobermory whisky (Tobermory 12 or Ledaig for a smoky option)
A few drops of room-temperature water
Optional: a small piece of dark chocolate or shortbread on the side
Instructions
1. Choose your glass, ideally a Glencairn or small whisky tumbler.
2. Pour 50ml of Tobermory whisky into the glass.
3. Add 2–5 drops of water to open up the aromas, or skip if you prefer it neat.
4. Let the whisky rest for 30 seconds.
5. Sip slowly to enjoy Tobermory’s natural fruit, spice, and coastal flavours.
Optional Pairings
A sliver of orange peel placed nearby to highlight the fruity notes.
A piece of 70% dark chocolate.
Isle of Mull cheese for a local pairing.
INSPIRED BY MULL, CRAFTED BY TOBERMORY – Tobermory Distillery brings the spirit of the Isle of Mull to life, crafting whisky inspired by the island’s rugged beauty and vibrant character. Each bottle captures Mull’s essence through artisanal craftsmanship and centuries-old traditions, offering a taste of this unique landscape in every sip.
