What to Do With Kids in Scotland

Between the rugged wilderness and diverse landscape encompassing century-old city charm, Scotland is a unique and majestic haven. While the wild terrain may attract active travelers and lush green courses entice golfers, there is a bit of wonder in every aspect of Scotland for families of all ages and interests. The enchanting side of Scotland is a unique quality your kids may particularly enjoy — especially considering the country’s national animal is the unicorn.

Bring the family and explore the wonder of old-world monuments and castles, mixed with the fun city life of Edinburgh.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Enjoying the incredible outdoors lends to all ages and is pretty unavoidable when in Scotland. Wherever you stay, you can easily head out on hikes in local parks and of sprawling estates during your trip, but make a point to visit the iconic and spectacular Isle of Skye. The scenery is legendary for good reason.

Visit the forestry center of The Lodge in Aberfoyle and learn all about the legends and landscape surrounding the area.

Get Active

Specifically designed with the kids in mind, Stirling’s Briarlands Farm Park is a play haven for little ones. Let the kids run around in the toddler trike track, or bring the bigger kids for some tractor go-karting and archery. Kids can play football, golf and take tractor rides, or learn the art of archery and zipline. Stop by the animal pens to feed the livestock and even go through the sheep pen maze. Pick berries when in season and enjoy some tea in the Farmer’s Den Tearoom, included in your ticket price.

Family at farm park, Scotland © Romrodinka | Dreamstime.com

Located just a few miles south of Stirling, near Denny, Wellsfield Farm Park is a family-friendly lodge and activity center, all in one. There are all-weather activities available in the Fun Barn, or head outside for pony rides, jumping pillows — basically trampolines — and a family basket wing. Check out the full lineup of activities here. Families can stay on premises and take their time at the park, enjoy the luxuries of a lodge and easy access to other beautiful view points in the area.

Make you way to Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, as the opening season kicks off March 23. Visit resident wildlife and even interact with the gentle creatures. For even more goat-brushing, pillow jumping, playing and family fun, Almond Valley is an adventure park just for kids.

Hit the Beach

Spending a day at the beach isn’t usually consistent with a destination like Scotland, but it certainly should be. The island country is literally lined and surrounded with incredible beach destinations; just take your pick.

Take in the Culture

Visiting Scotland wouldn’t be complete without a few (dozen) castle visits and spooky stories. Between the Loch Ness cruises in Inverness; Wallace Monument and Castles in Sterling; exquisite tours through the Bowhill House; visiting the world-famous Edinburgh Castle in the capital city; and Doune Castle, a stronghold in Castle Hill, Doune; and literally, countless other locales worth visiting, your family will move through the centuries of interesting Scottish history.

Do your best to explore all the country has to offer, from scenic overlooks and fun artisan shops, to animal parks, bouncy fun for the kids and real-life castles. Stroll through Old Town Edinburgh with the family, enjoying local cuisine, boutiques and attractions. Each small town and village you come across will be more scenic than the next, but begin or end in Edinburgh for an easy transition in and out of the country.