Fun-filled family days out in Scotland

24th March 2023

Looking for some fun family days out in Scotland? We’ve got a few ideas for you. Whether you need a last-minute weekend activity, a Spring getaway, or plenty of options for the school holidays, Scotland is packed full of brilliant things to do. 

 

From outdoor adventures to exciting museums, keep the kids happy with these awesome experiences. You can visit each one by train and for less with a Family & Friends Railcard. 

 

Loch Insh: best for families who love being outdoors 

From raft building and kayaking to stand-up paddle boarding and windsurfing, there is tons of aquatic fun to be had for families at Loch Insh Outdoor Centre. 

 

Make use of the scenic cycle routes nearby and take your bikes on the train (remember to check in advance to confirm whether or not you need to book a space for them). The National Cycle Route 7 connects the loch to Aviemore station and it only takes 40 minutes. 

 

Be sure to book courses in advance, as the centre gets very busy at weekends. 

 

Nearest station: Aviemore 

 

North Berwick: best for families who love the seaside 

 

Hop on the train from Edinburgh for some seaside fun in North Berwick. 

 

The town has a lovely, long sandy beach stretching out for a couple of kilometres – ideal for beach games. The safe sheltered waters are perfect for swimming, too. 

 

You’ll also find the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick, where you can learn all about Scotland’s wonderful wildlife. 

 

Nearest station: North Berwick 

 

SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium - one for rainy days! - 2FOR1

For those days when the weather won’t play nice, head just 30 minutes outside Glasgow to SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium, situated on the stunning Loch Lomond Shores.

 

Get up close to over 1500 creatures, including Scotland's only Cow Nose Rays, the largest collection of sharks in Scotland and their playful family of otters.

 

The Aquarium offers 2FOR1 on tickets when you travel there by train with DaysOutGuide.co.uk.

 

Always a popular option with families, be sure to book your tickets in advance from their website – and take part in fun talks, animal feeds, special events and a quiz trail, there's plenty for everyone to enjoy, whatever the weather!

 

Nearest station: Balloch

 

Motherwell: best for families who love theme parks 

 

Love rides, slides and all things fast and crazy? Then you’ll have a blast at M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park in Motherwell. 

 

This massive park is home to a staggering array of fairground rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, a bowling alley and even an indoor rainforest. 

 

For little ones, there’s a trampoline park, mini dodgems and a range of smaller rides to choose from. 

 

Nearest station: Motherwell 

 

Glasgow: best for families who love cities 

Part of a clan who love the hustle and bustle of the big city? Make a day of it in Glasgow. 

 

The weird and wonderful Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has loads for kids, from dinosaurs and natural history to weapons and a suspended fighter plane. 

 

After the museum, blow off some steam at R-CADE, a giant amusements centre. Or, if you’re after fresh air, Reidvale Adventure Play Park is a good choice. 

 

Nearest stations: Glasgow Central, Charing Cross (Glasgow), Glasgow Queen Street 

 

Edinburgh: best for families who love horrible history - 2FOR1

For grisly tales and gruesome history, take the train to Edinburgh with the kids. 

 

Start your trip at Edinburgh Dungeons, a fright-filled journey into the city’s darker side - be sure to check out their 2FOR1 offer when you travel by train with DaysOutGuide.co.uk

 

After, head underground to the South Bridge Vaults for stories of plague and poverty in medieval Edinburgh.  And then finish your day with a spooky ghost walk through the Old Town. 

 

Nearest stations: Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket 

 

Dumfries: best for families who love a good story 

With storytelling sessions, workshops and tons of interactive fun, the kids will love Moat Brae House and the Neverland Discovery Garden in Dumfries. 

 

The museum brings to life the story of Peter Pan and other famous characters from children’s books with fun exhibitions and experiences. 

 

This is another destination that gets very busy during weekends and school holidays, so be sure to book in advance. 

 

Nearest station: Dumfries 

 

Aberdeen: best for families who love curious creatures  

 

Head to the dolphin viewing centre at Greyhope Bay for an unforgettable wildlife adventure. 

 

Recently named one of the best places in the UK to spot bottlenose dolphins, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see them during your visit. And if not, you can always come back the next day. 

 

Entry is free, with the dolphins getting so close to you that you’ll almost feel like you’re on the water. Viewings take place between Wednesday and Sunday.  

 

Nearest station: Aberdeen 

 

Save when you travel as a group with the Friends and Family Railcard – that’s up to 60% off for up to four kids!

 

For even more great deals on attractions all around Great Britain, visit DaysOutGuide.co.uk 

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