Family holidays to Scotland
Scotland is such a terrific holiday destination for families because it is loaded with adventure, great family-style accommodation, kid friendly restaurants and oodles of fun for everyone. It’s simply a matter of finding a nice home base for your family’s holiday; and then heading out to explore, explore and explore some more! Luckily Scotland has tones of places that will put a smile on everyone’s faces, no matter what their age!
Family days out in Scotland
From nature walks and rock climbing to thrilling gorge-walking and open canoeing, a family holiday to Scotland will introduce you and your family to some exhilarating and fun outdoor activities. The Highlands is a perfect introduction to the great outdoors. Try some of Perthshire’s other attractions, such as castles, wildlife centers, trail-marked forest walks and even a whisky distillery- if all of the fresh air gets too much! You can always relax and unwind on a rail trip back to your accommodation after your exciting day out.
In the capital of Edinburgh you may like to check out Our Dynamic Earth where kids can combine lots of interactive fun with an in depth planetary educational experience.
The Edinburgh Castle which kids will love to explore as well as the Edinburgh Zoo; with the world’s biggest penguin pool are both close by. For more animal interaction visit Blair Drummond Safari Park or if shopping is what they like to do; there are fun filled department stores like Jenners and Harvey Nicols to explore. Where ever you decide to take the family in Scotland absolutely everyone will have a fabulous time; not just the kids!
Child friendly accommodation in Scotland
Most of the accommodation options in Scotland welcome children and you will find a great selection to choose from; including caravan parks, cottages, self-catering and hotels all with wonderful family friendly facilities.
Ardoe House, Aberdeen: Set in rolling hills with splendid views across the River Dee; swimming pool, sauna, gym and beautiful gardens- a perfect home away from home.
Novotel Edinburgh Centre, Edinburgh: This top facility is definitely child friendly offering a free bed and breakfast for children under 16, a healthy kid’s menu and activity sheets to keep them occupied as well as indoor swimming pool! Parents; the only catch is that they have to share a room with you!
Dykecroft, Glasgow: A fabulous modern farmhouse with comfortable family accommodation especially situated for touring Central Scotland.
Marks Hotel, Glasgow: Boasting a duck pond, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and museum; all close by; this is a modern spacious hotel in the heart of the city- simply perfect for kids and parents!
Evesham Hotel, Evesham: Kids will adore the teddy bear theme and parents will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere in this top child friendly hotel! Guaranteed!
Or for a family camping holiday experience, there are many large, friendly and safe family campsites that are great for family camping holidays at Blair Atholl, or Glenmore.
Family restaurants and local cuisine
If your family is mad about good old fashioned fish-n-chips, they are in for a treat as Edinburgh serves up the best, with salt ’n sauce – a runny brown sauce that local folks swear by. Pub food is another must do as most of these have kid’s menus. Try Brewer's Fayre with a great play area especially for the little ones.
Like most cities, there are lots of family friendly eateries and restaurants everywhere; but do keep an eye open for those that offer a kid’s menu with pizza and pasta which includes free drink refills and an ice-cream for dessert such; as Bella- the kids will love it! And best of all; it won’t break the bank!
Scotland - useful tips
As Scotland is fun at any time of year you and your family will find lots to do and keep everyone entertained. The festive seasons of both Christmas and the New Year (Hogmanay) will mean that Edinburgh bestows all of her traditional charms and celebrations for your enjoyment. Then there is also the Festival held every August with artists, performers and a carnival atmosphere that is second to none as this city becomes a cultural blend of colorful entertainment and partying.
