Scotland is ready to bask in a summer heatwave next week with temperatures due to rise higher than Spanish sunspot Marbella.

The mercury is expected to reach 27C in parts of Scotland beating Marbella, which is due to hit just 26C at the start of the week.

Temperatures are predicted to reach over 20C in more southern parts of Scotland this weekend with a greater chance of cloud further north.

It could feel cooler under the cloud cover this weekend before the warmer weather during the week.

But thermometers could reach the 30C mark next week.

Forecasters are expecting highs of 27C in Glasgow on Tuesday with the south of the country soaking up the best of the conditions.

The Met Office said Edinburgh will bathe in a 24C heat on Thursday, with Aberdeen and Dundee set for 21C and 20C.

Some northern areas, such as parts of Orkney and the Shetland Isles due to for rain.

Met Office forecaster Bonnie Diamond said: “It’s warming up from the weekend and for next week as high pressure drags up warmer air from the continent.

“Sunny and warm weather lasts until at least the end of next week.”

Other parts of the UK, like southern England, are expected to hit highs of 32C.

Warm temperatures throughout May and June have been enjoyed north of the Border, but experts believe Scotland’s hottest day of the year will be beaten next week.

Dunstaffnage, Argyll, which reached 27C on May 28, was the highest recorded temperature for this year so far.