Although they are averse to strong sunshine, huge numbers are being reported, particularly in Glasgow and the West of Scotland in the early morning and evenings.

Yes, Glasgow does have midges, but they are significantly less of a problem than in the Scottish Highlands or the rural West Coast. The Highland Midge (Culicoides impunctatus) thrives in damp, boggy, and acidic soil, which is plentiful in the moors and glens but less common in the "urban jungle" of Glasgow. In 2026, you might encounter small swarms in the city's large green spaces like Pollok Country Park, Kelvingrove Park, or the Botanic Gardens, especially on still, humid evenings in July and August. However, the wind tunnels created by city streets and the lack of stagnant peat bogs generally keep the "biting" populations at bay. For a 2026 traveler, the "pro-tip" is that you don't need "midge nets" for a city break in Glasgow; standard insect repellent or simply staying in well-ventilated areas is enough. The real "midge danger" begins about 20 miles north of the city as you enter the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, where the environment becomes the perfect breeding ground for these tiny, persistent pests.