Scotland is a treasure trove of adventure, filled with majestic mountains, soaring scenery and over 12,000 years of history. And if you’re visiting with the little ones, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of things to do as a family
This guide highlights the best family attractions in Scotland. From mini golf to museums, we’ll make sure you have something fun up your sleeve for the youngsters.
Glasgow is one of the UK’s most-visited cities, situated on the banks of the River Clyde. A friendly location with museums, restaurants and parks, it’s a fantastic place to visit with kids.
Download a themed treasure trail for an easy and exciting tour of Scotland’s second city. Each trail takes around two hours to complete and offers a chance to explore the cityscape. We recommend the Merchant City trail, which starts in George Square, just an 11-minute walk from Leonardo Hotel Glasgow. This trail features lots of clues for little ones to solve.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a must-visit Glasgow attraction. Home to 22 themed galleries and 8,000 objects, there’s so much to explore. As well as interactive displays, there are activities for kids to enjoy as you make your way around the museum. Best of all, entry is free for those under 16.
Searching for the best family attractions in Scotland? Look no further than Jurassic Parrr Adventure Golf. Enjoy a spot of friendly competition at this delightful, dinosaur-themed golf course – ideal for mini adventurers. Book your tickets here.
The most northernly city in Britain, Inverness is home to natural landscapes and ancient structures that make it a delight to explore.
Established in 1983, Ness Islands Railway is a miniature railway that takes passengers through the picturesque Whin Park in Inverness. Kids will love pointing out everything they see as the train chugs along the track. The train operates during summer, and kids under four travel free!
Inverness Castle is a magnificent red sandstone structure that overlooks the River Ness. Although most of the castle is closed off to the public, you can visit the North Tower to enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands. You can also learn more about the country’s myths and legends, including the legend of the Loch Ness Monster.
Inverness Botanic Gardens is a great spot to enjoy a family stroll. There are several areas to visit, including the Tropical House, home to bananas, coffee and pineapple plants. The Gardens are only a 10-minute drive from Leonardo Hotel Inverness.
Boasting incredible history and attractions, Scotland’s capital has something for everyone.
Edinburgh has an abundance of fascinating museums. Our top choice is the National Museum of Scotland, which has a little bit of everything and is free to visit. Wander through art, history, science and technology exhibitions, and enjoy interactive attractions. Race against a cheetah, create your own energy in a human-sized hamster wheel, or excavate a dinosaur in the Adventure Planet zone!
For something a little gorier, visit the History of Surgery Museum at the Surgeons’ Hall Museums.
Afterwards, stop for a bite to eat at one of the Old Town cafés or restaurants. Try Mamma’s American Pizza for delicious pizza, burgers and salads. With a welcoming environment and an extensive menu, there’s something for all tastes.
Edinburgh Castle is the place to learn about Scotland’s rich history. Walk in the footsteps of kings, queens and soldiers, witness Scotland’s Crown Jewels, and learn about the castle’s time as a royal residence. Children can have fun completing the Edinburgh Castle Explorer Quiz as they tour this historic attraction.
Spend a fun-filled day at Edinburgh Zoo and find out what a binturong or an axolotl is! Famous for its giant pandas, the zoo also features trails that explore the lives of animals from environments like the Australian Outback.
Little dinosaur fans will love the immersive dinosaur exhibition – included in every Edinburgh Zoo ticket! The exhibition features a range of animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar, including Triceratops and Velociraptors.
Book online and take the bus or train from any of our Edinburgh hotels for an easy 15-30-minute journey.
From castles to coastline, Aberdeen offers beautiful scenery and endless activities. Located on the northeast coast of Scotland, it’s an ideal place to visit as a family.
The coastal city of Aberdeen is a working port on the North Sea, with a beautiful beach and harbour. Thrill-seekers will love the family-run Codonas Amusement Park, while history fans can wander down the beach to the medieval fishing village of Footdee. At the harbour entrance, you can watch the boats come and go from this busy, active port or try to spot dolphins and seals that play out at sea.
For a kid-friendly, sit-down meal, try The Silver Darling. Located on the harbour’s edge, it offers fresh seafood dishes and excellent accompanying views.
Continue exploring the highlands around Aberdeen and pop into the Grampian Transport Museum. With plenty of activities, exhibitions, interactive quizzes and museum trails, it’s the perfect place for a day trip or a picturesque picnic stopover. Make sure not to miss the Junior Driving School – a fantastic experience for kids aged four to eight.
The Aberdeen Science Centre promises one of the best family days out in Scotland. With the help of live science shows and interactive exhibits, this attraction brings the world of science to life. Kids will love the Little Explorer Days, featuring hands-on science activities about the world around them.
Known as the ‘Fair City’, Perth is a vibrant location in central Scotland, renowned for its arts scene and historical landmarks.
The Black Watch Castle and Museum is an award-winning attraction on the north side of Perth. Set in Balhousie Castle, this landmark highlights the history of Scotland’s High Regiment. The museum contains 13 galleries, with various artefacts, paintings and photographs. There’s also a bistro to grab lunch and a gift shop to purchase souvenirs. Events for kids are held throughout the year – find out more here.
Explore Scotland’s beautiful landscapes with a walk up Kinnoull Hill. First opened in 1991, this woodland park offers stunning views across Perth’s countryside, home to roe deer and red squirrels. It’s ideal for walkers of all abilities and makes a perfect spot for a family picnic.
For an enjoyable afternoon, visit Huntingtower Castle, a 20-minute walk from Leonardo Boutique Hotel Huntingtower Perth. This castle has been a lordly residence for 300 years and has received notable visitors including Mary Queen of Scots. Get the kids involved in the castle’s fun fact-finding quiz for an even more enjoyable experience.
Our Leonardo Hotels in Glasgow, Inverness, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Perth are the perfect places to stay, with spacious guestrooms and family-friendly restaurants. From Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket to Leonardo Inn Hotel Glasgow West End, our hotels are dotted across several Scottish cities.
Staying somewhere else in the UK? Browse our list of UK Leonardo hotels to find the right place for you. And check out our blog to stay updated with the latest travel tips.
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