Scotland is a fairytale land with natural scenery beyond human description. But how do you make a Scotland visit fun-packed for the whole family to enjoy?
Here is a list of varying kid-friendly activities for your visit to Scotland. We’ll discuss sports, nature, culture, and history – really anything for anyone!
This post is part of our Series Discover Europe With Kids
Water Sports In Loch Ness
The infamous Loch Ness is a brilliant place to start your journey. You’ll need a guide to Loch Ness to make sure you know what to expect.
A historical and informational cruise of the eerie lake will be sure to titillate your and your kids’ fairytale tastebuds. But we suggest considering visiting the exciting Great Glen Water Park.
Take your kids kayaking, canoeing, gorge walking, white water rafting, and rock climbing. These activities are sure to keep everyone’s energy engaged for a long period.
And parents can take their kids to the playground while they get some peaceful fishing time in if they require a break.
Bus Tour In Glasgow
There are tons of exciting things to do in Glasgow with kids. And one way to explore as many as possible is by the City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus.
Kids will love the continuous stopping and starting at new places. No restlessness and boredom caused by sitting in one spot for hours on end. Recorded audio commentary for both adults and kids is also included on the tour to keep it entertaining while you travel.
Kid-friendly stops include the Glasgow Botanic Gardens, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Barras Weekend Market. But the dynamic bus trip caters to groups of all shapes and sizes, allowing you to be in control of the pace of your journey.
National Museum Of Scotland In Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland, is one of the best family vacation places in Europe. Kids will especially love the family-friendly National Museum of Scotland.
The National Museum of Scotland takes your family through galleries on natural history, fashion, science, archeology, and space. You’ll be able to learn anything and everything about Scotland.
The museum has an interactive component to keep all age groups entertained. Don’t miss generating light for the Energy Tower in the science section. Or get imaginative by designing your own outfits in the fashion section of the museum. Your kids can even become explorers and discover a dinosaur in the museum’s natural world and adventure section.
Don’t forget to book yourselves into a nice boutique hotel in Edinburgh. Ocean Mist Leith is a truly unique choice in a restored steamship, or try Virgin Hotels Edinburgh for spectacular rooftop views of Edinburgh Castle.
Marine Life Spotting On The Isle Of Mull
The Isle of Mull in Hebrides, Scotland, should be on your list if you’re a naturalist family of wildlife enthusiasts.
Both birdwatchers and those with a passion for marine life will truly enjoy wildlife spotting on the Isle of Mull – an isle rich with diverse fauna and flora.
Birdwatchers can attempt to catch a glimpse of golden and white-tailed eagles, as well as short-eared owls and hen harriers.
Meanwhile, offshore you could marvel at basking sharks, minke whales, seals, bottlenose, and Risso’s dolphins. And don’t forget to watch out for the adorable sea otters!
Hogwarts Express From Fort William
Kids and adults alike are all-too-familiar with the Harry Potter series. And most of us already know that Scotland is where a lot of these movies were filmed.
Anyone who is a fan of Harry Potter will revel in the thrill of taking the Hogwarts Express (or the Jacobite Steam Train) between Fort William and Mallaig. The scenic run takes 2 hours overall and crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct (or the “Harry Potter bridge”).
You’ll even be able to buy snacks just like the Hogwarts students! And purchase souvenirs on board.
But make sure to book your tickets or arrive early for this popular excursion.
The Isle Of Skye Fairy Glen
Hiking is also a fantastic family-oriented activity to do in Scotland, especially since Scotland boasts one of the most captivating landscapes in the world.
You’ll certainly want to take in the unique ruggedness of Scotland when you visit the Isle of Skye. One hike that spans approximately 25 minutes and is relatively easy to hike is The Fairy Glen. There are just a few streams to jump across that shouldn’t deem too treacherous for any age level.
Kids will love exploring the strange geological hillocks, formations, and pinnacles, while parents can admire the enchanting colours of the greenery. Remember to say hello to the flocks of sheep milling about everywhere while you marvel at the mysterious Fairy Glen stone circles.
Eden Court Theatre In Inverness
Inverness in the Scottish Highlands is the perfect place to visit if your family is culturally inclined. Attend a theatre performance of drama, dance, comedy, music, film, and children’s events at the Eden Court if performing arts is your particular niche.
Eden Court contains two theatres, two cinemas, two dance centres, and a brilliant bar and restaurant. Choose from an array of performances that are updated continuously.
Reviews of Eden Court describe a great ambience and 5-star service. Pride and Prejudice (*sort of) and David Walliams’ Demon Dentist are the next performances that will be on stage in 2023.
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