Scotland is a land of enchantment, where the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture make it a perfect destination for families. Here, children can unleash their imagination amidst ancient castles, mystical lochs, and rugged mountains. From educational experiences to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do on your Scotland family vacation. Check out our guide on traveling to Scotland with kids.
Why Visit Scotland With Kids
- Educational Opportunities: Scotland’s history is woven into its landscape, offering kids a unique opportunity to learn about ancient civilizations, legendary figures, and historical events.
- Outdoor Adventures: With vast wilderness, coastal paths, and highland trails, Scotland beckons families to explore its natural wonders through hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse your family in Scottish traditions through ceilidh dancing, Highland games, and folklore storytelling, fostering a deep appreciation for the country’s heritage.
- Friendly Locals: Scots are renowned for their warm hospitality, making it easy for families to feel welcome and at home as they traverse the country.
- Memorable Experiences: From spotting Nessie at Loch Ness to exploring Harry Potter filming locations, Scotland promises unique and unforgettable experiences for children of all ages.
Things to Do in Scotland With Kids
Scotland is brimming with family-friendly activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether your children are budding historians, outdoor enthusiasts, or aspiring wizards, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating country.
- Explore Castles: Embark on a journey through time as you visit iconic castles like Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, and Eilean Donan Castle, where children can unleash their imagination and learn about medieval life.
- Go Nessie Hunting: Cruise along the mysterious waters of Loch Ness in search of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, a thrilling adventure sure to captivate young imaginations.
- Discover Harry Potter Magic: Follow in the footsteps of the Boy Who Lived with visits to filming locations such as Glenfinnan Viaduct, the Elephant House Café in Edinburgh, and the Jacobite Steam Train.
- Enjoy Outdoor Adventures: From kayaking on serene lochs to pony trekking in the Highlands, Scotland offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures that will delight kids and parents alike.
- Experience Wildlife Encounters: Head to the Isle of Skye or the Cairngorms National Park for wildlife spotting opportunities, where kids can marvel at red deer, golden eagles, seals, and even puffins.
Read more about activities you can do in Scotland:
Best Places to Visit in Scotland With Kids
Scotland is a land of breathtaking beauty, where every corner unveils a new wonder waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re exploring historic cities, tranquil islands, or majestic mountains, Scotland offers a diverse array of destinations that cater to families seeking adventure and relaxation alike.
- Edinburgh: Scotland’s capital city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment, with attractions like the Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, and dynamic festivals throughout the year.
- Isle of Skye: Embark on a magical journey to the Isle of Skye, where dramatic landscapes, fairy-tale castles, and enchanting folklore await exploration.
- Highlands: Lose yourself in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, where majestic mountains, shimmering lochs, and picturesque villages create an unforgettable backdrop for family adventures.
- Loch Ness: Venture to the legendary Loch Ness, where the mysteries of the deep beckon adventurers to explore its dark waters and ancient ruins.
- Glasgow: Discover Scotland’s vibrant cultural scene in Glasgow, where world-class museums, art galleries, and music venues offer endless entertainment for families.
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Where to Stay in Scotland
Choosing the right accommodation is essential for a successful family trip to Scotland. Whether you prefer the comforts of a city hotel, the charm of a countryside B&B, or the adventure of camping under the stars, Scotland offers a diverse range of lodging options to suit every family’s needs and preferences.
- Family-Friendly Hotels: Opt for family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and other major cities, offering amenities such as spacious rooms, kid-friendly meals, and recreational activities for children.
- Self-Catering Cottages: Rent a self-catering cottage in the countryside or by the coast, providing families with the freedom to cook their meals and enjoy quality time together in a home-like setting.
- Campgrounds: Embrace the great outdoors by camping in one of Scotland’s many campgrounds, where children can run freely, roast marshmallows over a campfire, and fall asleep under the stars.
- Farm Stays: Experience rural life firsthand with a farm stay accommodation, where kids can help feed animals, collect eggs, and learn about sustainable agriculture while enjoying comfortable lodging and warm hospitality.
- Castle Stays: Fulfill every child’s fairy-tale fantasy with a stay in a castle hotel or historic mansion, where they can imagine themselves as royalty while exploring grand halls, secret passages, and lush gardens.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Scotland
Scotland boasts an array of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy B&Bs to luxury resorts, ensuring that families can find the perfect home away from home during their Scottish adventure.
- Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club (Edinburgh): Set amidst 1,000 acres of parkland, this luxurious hotel offers spacious family rooms, a golf course, swimming pool, and outdoor activities for all ages.
- Crieff Hydro (Perthshire): With over 60 activities on-site, including a water park, horse riding, and adventure playgrounds, Crieff Hydro is a paradise for families seeking fun and relaxation in the Scottish countryside.
- Macdonald Aviemore Resort (Highlands): Located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, this resort offers family-friendly lodges, a leisure center with a pool, and access to outdoor adventures such as skiing, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
- The Marine Hotel (Troon): Situated on the Ayrshire coast, this seaside hotel boasts stunning views, spacious family rooms, and easy access to the beach, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions like Culzean Castle.
- Portavadie Loch Fyne (Argyll): Escape to the serene shores of Loch Fyne with a stay at Portavadie, where families can enjoy luxury lodges, a spa, outdoor activities, and delicious dining options overlooking the water.
Best Time to Visit Scotland
The best time to visit Scotland with kids depends on your family’s preferences for weather, activities, and crowds. Each season offers its own unique experiences, from blooming flowers in spring to festive celebrations in winter.
- Spring (March to May): Experience the awakening of nature as flowers bloom, lambs frolic in the fields, and festivals celebrate Scottish culture and traditions. Read our guide to Spring in Scotland.
- Summer (June to August): Enjoy long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and a lively atmosphere as Scotland comes alive with outdoor festivals, Highland games, and cultural events.
- Autumn (September to November): Witness the breathtaking beauty of Scotland’s landscapes as they are painted in hues of gold, red, and orange, perfect for scenic drives, hiking, and wildlife watching.
- Winter (December to February): Embrace the magic of winter in Scotland with festive markets, snow-capped mountains, and cozy evenings by the fire, ideal for skiing, sledding, and exploring historic sites without the crowds.
Check out our guide on the Worst Time to Visit Scotland
How Long to Stay in Scotland
The ideal duration for a family trip to Scotland depends on your interests, itinerary, and travel preferences. Whether you’re planning a short city break or an extended road trip, there’s plenty to see and do to fill your days with adventure and discovery.
- Short Break (3-5 Days): Explore the highlights of Edinburgh, Glasgow, or the Highlands on a short city break, with enough time to visit iconic landmarks, enjoy family-friendly attractions, and savor Scottish cuisine.
- Week-Long Getaway (7 Days): Embark on a week-long adventure to discover multiple regions of Scotland, from the vibrant cities to the remote islands, allowing for a mix of urban exploration and outdoor activities.
- Two Weeks or More: For families with a sense of adventure and a desire to delve deeper into Scotland’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage, a two-week or longer trip offers the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, embark on multi-day hikes, and immerse yourself in local culture and traditions.
Scotland Family Itinerary
Crafting the perfect family itinerary for Scotland requires careful planning to ensure a balance of sightseeing, activities, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the cities, countryside, or islands, consider these sample itineraries as inspiration for your Scottish adventure.
- Edinburgh & the Highlands (7 Days):
- Days 1-3: Explore Edinburgh’s historic landmarks, museums, and gardens, including Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and Arthur’s Seat.
- Days 4-7: Journey into the Highlands to discover dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, and outdoor adventures, such as Loch Ness, Glen Coe, and the Isle of Skye.
- Glasgow & the West Coast (5 Days):
- Days 1-2: Discover Glasgow’s vibrant cultural scene, shopping districts, and architectural gems, including Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow Cathedral, and the Riverside Museum.
- Days 3-5: Venture to the scenic west coast to explore picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and historic sites like Inveraray Castle, Loch Lomond, and the Isle of Arran.
- Family Road Trip (10 Days):
- Days 1-3: Begin your journey in Edinburgh, then head north to Stirling, Perthshire, and Dundee, exploring castles, distilleries, and outdoor activities along the way.
- Days 4-7: Journey into the Highlands to discover iconic landmarks like Loch Ness, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Ben Nevis, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives.
- Days 8-10: Return south via the west coast, visiting charming seaside towns, historic sites, and natural wonders such as Oban, the Kintyre Peninsula, and the Trossachs National Park.
Check out our 2-Week Scotland Itinerary
Getting Around Scotland
Navigating Scotland with kids is made easy with a variety of transportation options, from trains and buses to rental cars and guided tours. Whether you’re exploring cities, countryside, or remote islands, there’s a convenient way to travel that suits your family’s needs and preferences.
- Public Transportation: Scotland’s reliable public transportation network includes trains, buses, and ferries, offering convenient and affordable options for traveling between cities, towns, and attractions.
- Rental Cars: For families seeking flexibility and freedom, renting a car allows you to explore remote areas, scenic routes, and off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace.
- Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour or hiring a private guide is a hassle-free way to experience Scotland’s highlights while benefiting from expert knowledge, insider tips, and personalized itineraries tailored to your family’s interests.
- Cycling: Embrace the spirit of adventure by cycling along dedicated cycle paths, scenic routes, and coastal trails, providing a unique perspective of Scotland’s landscapes and landmarks.
- Walking: Lace up your hiking boots and embark on family-friendly walks, nature trails, and urban strolls, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking views along the way.
Don’t want to drive? Learn about Getting Around Scotland Without a Car
Embark on a Scottish adventure with your family, where every day is filled with discovery, excitement, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime. From ancient castles to majestic mountains, Scotland beckons families to explore its wonders and create unforgettable experiences together.
