Last updated on November 9th, 2024 at 08:08 am
Are you planning a family adventure and want to know the best places to see in Scotland?
Scotland is renowned for its amazing landscapes, history, and family-friendly attractions. From ancient castles to beautiful lochs and vibrant cities, Scotland offers a huge choice of experiences for visitors of all ages.
We loved our summer road trip around Scotland – it surpassed all of our expectations! Scotland is definitely one of our top picks when it comes to vacation destinations for families.
But where are the best places in Scotland to visit with kids? In this guide, we explore must-visit places in Scotland perfect for families. From Loch Ness to the Scottish Highlands and bustling Edinburgh, we have you covered when it comes to where to go in Scotland.
Want the quick answer to the best places to visit in Scotland for families if you’re limited on time? We’d suggest Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Read more about all these destinations below.
The Family Conscience contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.
1. Edinburgh
The Scottish capital has so much going on for families, making it one of the best cities to visit in Scotland if you’re travelling with kids. It’s also a great place to base yourself for some amazing day trips from Edinburgh.
If you plan to visit in August, don’t miss the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and the Edinburgh Children’s Festival. You’ll be able to enjoy street performances, comedy events and family-friendly theatre shows across the city.
Here’s what to do and where to go in Edinburgh for families:
- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: Near Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura offers interactive optical illusions kids will love as well as panoramic views of the city from the rooftop terrace. It’s both a fun and educational experience if you’re visiting Edinburgh with kids.
- National Museum of Scotland: You’ll find collections showcasing Scottish history, natural history, science and technology here. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, including the Explore gallery designed specifically for younger visitors.
- Edinburgh Zoo: Edinburgh Zoo is home to a large variety of animals including pandas, penguins, lions, and more. Don’t miss the daily penguin parade or the talks and animal feedings throughout the day.
- Scotch Whisky Experience: You might think this sounds like an adult-only experience, but the Scotch Whisky Experience offers a family-friendly tour suitable for all ages. You’ll get to learn about Scotland’s national drink through a fun and interactive tour that includes a barrel ride!
- Mary King’s Close: Explore Edinburgh’s underground history with a tour of Mary King’s Close, a preserved 17th-century street located beneath the Royal Mile. The guided tour brings history to life with stories of the plague, ghosts, and daily life in times gone by.
- Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat: Take a family hike up to Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park for amazing views of Edinburgh and beyond. The park has a number of trails suitable for different fitness levels, making this a great outdoor activity for families.
- Harry Potter Walking Tour: There are a number of these available (some are free, with a suggested tip at the end). They’re a great way to see the city, where the Harry Potter books were written, and spots which inspired or made it into the stories!
✅ BOOK HERE for the best Edinburgh Family Tours
2. Glasgow
Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, and while it may sometimes be sidelined as a place to visit by Edinburgh, it is more than worthy of being added to any family itinerary.
Also, this is the place to try that famous Scottish delicacy – the deep-fried Mars bar (most fish and chip shops have them in Glasgow).
Look out for the amazing wall art here too!
Here’s what to do in Glasgow with kids:
- Glasgow Science Centre: You’ll find interactive exhibits, live science shows, and a planetarium at the Glasgow Science Centre. Kids will enjoy the hands-on activities and experiments. The perfect place to head when it’s raining in Glasgow (which happens fairly frequently).
- Riverside Museum: The Riverside Museum is Scotland’s Museum of Transport and Travel, located on the banks of the River Clyde. It’s an award-winning museum with historic vehicles, interactive displays, and exhibits that tell the story of Glasgow’s transportation history.
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum houses a diverse collection of artworks, artefacts, and exhibits, including a life-sized Spitfire plane and ancient Egyptian mummies. Great for families.
- The Tall Ship at Riverside: Step aboard The Tall Ship, a restored 19th-century sailing ship moored next to the Riverside Museum. You’ll be able to explore the ship’s decks and learn about maritime history.
- Pollok Country Park: If you’re looking for outdoor adventures in Glasgow, head to Pollok Country Park. Get ready to spot highland cattle and explore woodland trails – a perfect family activity for when the weather’s good. One of the best non-touristy places to visit in Scotland.
✅ BOOK HERE for the best rates on Glasgow Family Tours
3. The Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands should be top of your list of places to see in Scotland if you’re looking for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. If you’re planning on a road trip in Scotland, you’ll want to take in some of this region for sure.
Here’s what not to miss during a Scottish Highlands holiday:
- Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle: Legendary Loch Ness is a must see in Scotland and a visit to Urquhart Castle which sits on its shores and offers impressive views of the loch is a great add-on. A nice thing to do as a family is to take a boat trip to search for the mythical Loch Ness Monster (“Nessie”). Let us know if you find him!
- Glenfinnan Viaduct and Harry Potter Train: Experience the magic of the Harry Potter films by taking a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train that crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Or, head to the viewpoint for the Glenfinnan Viaduct to watch the train cross. One of our top things to see in Scotland!
- Highland Wildlife Park: See native Scottish wildlife and other animals used to colder climates at the Highland Wildlife Park near Kingussie. Part of the safari park is drive-through and you’ll get to see animals like red deer, bison, and even a polar bear. Our favourite animal here was the seriously cute Arctic fox.
- Glenmore Forest Park: you’ll find some wonderful trails here. Don’t miss the beautiful Lochan Uaine (the green lake). If you’re all up for a bit of a steeper walk, try the Ryvoan trail (3.5 miles long).
✅ BOOK HERE for great rates on Scottish Highlands Family Tours
4. Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is a magical place for families. Kids will be captivated by the island’s fairy-tale scenery, including iconic landmarks like the Old Man of Storr and The Fairy Pools. It takes a bit of driving to get to, and it’s very popular in the summer – but it’s one of our must-visit places in Scotland.
Here are our top recommendations of things to do on the Isle of Skye with kids:
- The Fairy Pools: The magical Fairy Pools is a great place to visit with kids – particularly in the summer when you can take a dip! One of our top recommendations when it comes to things to see in Scotland.
- The Old Man of Storr: Take a hike up to the Old Man of Storr for fantastic views. It’s a steep climb and a little rocky in places but the landscape is truly amazing and very much worth it.
- The Fairy Glen: Another magical location on the Isle of Skye. The Fairy Glen was originally formed by a landslide, then shaped by the weather. A walk around here will have you believing you’re in a fairy tale.
- Portree: Skye’s capital, Portree has a pretty harbour with pastel-coloured buildings surrounding it. It’s a lovely place to grab some fish and chips or ice cream – and is also a great place to base yourselves during a stay as it’s in the centre of the island, so you can easily reach all the attractions on the island.
Read our post on the top things to do on the Isle of Skye with kids for more information.
✅ BOOK HERE for the best Isle of Skye Family Tours
5. Cairngorms National Park
The Cairngorms National Park is in the eastern part of the Scottish Highlands. It covers a large area and is a particularly beautiful part of Scotland. One of the best places to visit in Scotland for families who like to be active and outdoors.
This is what we’d recommend when visiting the Cairngorms National Park and surrounding area:
- Cairngorm Mountain: There are some great family-friendly walks and hikes around the mountain. You can also take the funicular railway to Ptarmigan Station on Cairngorm Mountain for some fantastic views of the area.
- Cairngorm Reindeer Centre: The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre near Aviemore offers guided tours to meet and feed the reindeer that roam freely in the Cairngorm mountains.
- Landmark Forest Adventure Park: Head to the Landmark Forest Adventure Park in Carrbridge for a day of family rides, nature trails, and treetop adventures.
- Rothiemurchas: Rothiemurchas is a fantastic option if you’re in Scotland with teens. They have quad biking, segways and river tubing on offer and there’s a fishery on site where kids can catch a trout for dinner. They also have hairy coo safaris – so if all else fails, try here for a guaranteed pic!
- Aviemore: Make sure you explore the town of Aviemore, and if you want to explore the Cairngorms this is a great place to base yourselves.
✅ BOOK HERE for the best Cairngorms National Park Family Tours
6. Stirling
Stirling makes a good place to stop if you’re en route to the Scottish Highlands from either Glasgow or Edinburgh. There are a few sights here certainly worth seeing.
Consider these activities if you visit Stirling:
- Stirling Castle: Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most important historical sites. Enjoy the castle’s interactive exhibits, the Great Hall and Royal Palace, and head up to the top of the castle walls for some great views.
- Wallace Monument: Pop by the National Wallace Monument, dedicated to the legendary Scottish hero, William Wallace. You can climb the monument’s tower for some fabulous views and learn about Wallace’s life and legacy through exhibits and displays.
- Blair Drummond Safari Park: Located near Stirling, Blair Drummond Safari Park offers a fun-filled day for families with a drive-through safari, animal shows, and adventure playgrounds. It’s a great day out for families.
✅ Book HERE for the best Stirling Family Tours
7. Dundee
Dundee, on the east coast of Scotland is another great city in Scotland which offers cultural activities and maritime history worth stopping by for.
Here’s are some things to see in Dundee:
- V&A Dundee: The V&A Dundee is Scotland’s first design museum, known for its impressive architecture and creative exhibits. They often hold workshops and activities for families.
- Discovery Point and RRS Discovery: Visit Discovery Point to learn about Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition aboard the RRS Discovery. You can explore the ship and discover what life was like on board during polar expeditions.
- Dundee Science Centre: There are lots of hands-on science activities and experiments to be done at Dundee Science Centre. Kids can explore interactive exhibits on topics such as space, making it both a fun and educational experience for all the family.
- Broughty Castle Museum: Broughty Castle Museum, is a historic castle overlooking the River Tay. You’ll be able to learn about the castle’s history, its maritime heritage, and local wildlife during your visit.
✅ BOOK HERE for the best value family tours in Dundee
8. St. Andrews
St Andrews in Scotland is a fantastic destination for families, offering a good combination of history, outdoor activities, coastline and beaches to explore and enjoy together.
Below are some ideas on where to visit with kids in St. Andrews:
- St Andrews Cathedral and St Rule’s Tower: Visit the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, once Scotland’s largest cathedral, and climb St Rule’s Tower for fabulous views of the town and coastline.
- St Andrews Castle: Explore St Andrews Castle, overlooking the North Sea. There’s an underground mine and siege tunnels you can visit, as well as the “bottle dungeon.” Head up to the castle’s battlements for some great views.
- West Sands Beach: West Sands Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand where the famous beach-running scene from the movie “Chariots of Fire” was filmed. It’s perfect for family picnics, sandcastle building, and long walks.
- St Andrews Aquarium: St Andrews Aquarium is a perfect place to visit for families and a perfect rainy day activity in Scotland.
✅ Book HERE for the best St Andrews Family Tours
9. Aberdeen
Families will love Aberdeen’s beautiful sandy beaches and all the outdoor activities available, from visiting amusement parks like Codona’s to exploring pretty parks like Duthie Park. Aberdeen is to the east of Cairngorms National Park.
Here are our top things to do in Aberdeen:
- Codona’s Amusement Park: Visit Codona’s Amusement Park which is located on Aberdeen Beach. This is a great day out for families with kids of all ages -with a variety of rides, arcade games, mini-golf and go-karting.
- Aberdeen Beach: If the weather’s good, consider spending a day at Aberdeen Beach, a beautiful sandy beach perfect for sandcastle building, paddling in the North Sea, and enjoying the promenade.
- Duthie Park and Winter Gardens: Duthie Park is one of Aberdeen’s most popular parks with beautiful gardens, a boating pond, and a children’s play area. The Winter Gardens feature exotic plants and a cactus house.
- Doonies Farm: Doonies Farm is a working farm just outside Aberdeen. Your kids will be able to meet farm animals and enjoy tractor rides. Look out for seasonal activities such as pumpkin picking and Easter egg hunts.
✅ Book HERE for popular Aberdeen Family Tours
10. The Isle Mull (plus Iona and Staffa)
The Isle of Mull is a fantastic destination for families seeking adventure and wildlife experiences in a beautiful island setting. You can reach it by getting the ferry across (with or without your car) from Oban.
Mull is also the gateway to exploring the unforgettable islands of Iona and Staffa. It’ll take some time and patience to get there, but you’ll be glad you made it happen.
Here’s what you should do on the Isle of Mull:
- Visit Tobermory: Explore the colourful town of Tobermory, famous for its brightly painted houses along the waterfront. Families can stroll along the harbour, visit the Tobermory Distillery and grab a snack at one of the local cafes.
- Tobermory Wildlife Tours: Take a wildlife boat tour from Tobermory to spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds in the waters around Mull. Some tours may also offer the chance to see whales and basking sharks.
- Iona and Staffa Tours: You can reach the beautiful beaches of Iona from Craignure on the Isle of Mull. This island has the most stunning blue water and white sands. You can head on to Staffa on a smaller boat to see its puffins and Fingals Cave. A must see in Scotland if you’re on the west coast.
✅ Book HERE for Isle of Mull Family Tours
Map of the best places to visit in Scotland for families:
The Verdict: Where to go in Scotland for families
A family trip to Scotland won’t be forgotten in a hurry. There are so many wonderful places to visit and things to see – you certainly won’t be bored.
If you’re planning a Scotland family road trip, then try to include as many of our best places to visit in Scotland for family recommendations as you can. As noted above, if you’re short on time, then add Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands and either the Isle of Skye or Isle of Mull to your itinerary.
Wondering when to visit Scotland? The summer months are best as Scotland can be rainy!
Wondering how much time you should allocate for your Scotland holiday? We’d recommend a minimum of ten days and up to three weeks.