fun day trips scotland

13 BEST Days Out in Scotland

From exploring edinburgh castle to hiking cairngorms national park, these are the best days out in scotland for your next adventure..

Looking for the best days out in Scotland? Well then, you’ve come to the right place!

I personally love exploring Scotland. I swear, the further north you go in Great Britain, the prettier it gets. Keep going north and you finish up with the Scottish Highlands and the Outer Hebrides, arguably two of the most beautiful places in the world.

Whether that’s hiking in the Cairngorms or checking out the amazing museums and galleries in Edinburgh , here’s always something new to see and do here. 

Hopefully this blog post will inspire you to visit Scotland and plan some fun days out. Because I promise you, there are so many fun days out to be had here!

Scotland days out are a great way to see a new place that you don’t know a lot about, or just get out and about in nature.

Maybe you live on the Scottish Borders and want to pop across for the day, or maybe you’re spending a few days in a Scottish city and you’re looking for a day trip outside of the city.

Whether you’re looking for family fun and want to check out somewhere like Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or you want to adventure across to one of the Outer Hebrides, there’s definitely a little something for everyone to enjoy in beautiful Scotland. 

So, without further ado, let’s dive in and discover some of the best places to visit in Scotland! 

Best days out in Scotland

Climb ben nevis.

Okay, let’s start off with a big hitter. A great day out in Scotland is taking on the highest mountain in the whole of the UK.

Ben Nevis is a beautiful, but moderately challenging, full-day hike that’s undertaken by thousands of people each year in the season. 

The season is predominantly May to September , but keep an eye on the weather and ask local mountaineering shops or guides for advice before you climb. If you’re unsure, make sure to join a group climb and hire a guide to help you on your way. I can tell you, it’s nowhere near as easy as other UK mountains, like Snowdon in Wales!

Explore Loch Lomond

As a part of the stunning Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond makes for a beautiful and tranquil Scotland day out.

Whether you want to take a leisurely hike or cycle around the shoreline of the loch, fancy getting out on the water in a kayak or on a paddleboard, or just want to chill on the beach at lakeside towns like Luss, the world’s your oyster.

Being under an hour away from Glasgow by car, Loch Lomond is the perfect day out in Scotland if you’re looking to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind.

If you’re looking to get on the water, then this is an amazing tour of Loch Lomond – this is by far one of the most popular tours around so check it out!

Check out Edinburgh Castle

If you’re spending time in the beautiful Scottish capital, it’s pretty hard to ignore the stunning Edinburgh Castle . Sitting high on Castlehill, overlooking both Old Town and New Town, it’s the heart of the city. 

Wandering through the storied halls of Edinburgh Castle feels like stepping back in time, where centuries of history whisper through ancient stones against the backdrop of breathtaking city views.

I always recommend booking your tickets in advance so you can get skip the line tickets. This really is the best way of learning all about 3,000 years of history!

Visit the Outer Hebrides

One of my favourite day trips in Scotland tends to be when I get to visit a new Scottish island. The stunning Outer Hebrides island group includes the Isles of Lewis, Harris, Barra, North and South Uist, and many more.

In the summer months, there are frequent ferries between the islands and mainland so you can easily organise days out to explore these amazing islands. In fact, if you see photos of Barra , you’ll be forgiven for thinking it’s a Caribbean island. I’m really not kidding! 

Be inspired at Glasgow Science Centre

If you’re looking for a Scotland day out that’s a worthy attraction come rain or shine, you need to check out the Glasgow Science Centre . This extraordinary museum is a must-visit if you’re in the area with kids as there are so many interactive exhibits and zones for them to really delve into science.

Once inside, you’ll find a huge Planetarium, a massive IMAX cinema, tons of exhibits and artifacts, and a whole lot of educational fun! In fact, it’s Scotland’s most popular paid attraction – it’s that good! 

Visit Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park

Looking to get up close and personal with some exciting wildlife? Well then, it’s well worth you visiting Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park. Located just outside Stirling, Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park is home to over 300 animals ranging from giraffes to lions and beyond. 

One of the cool things about this safari park is that you can explore the exhibits by foot. Thanks to the raised viewing platforms you can get closer to your favourite animals while still remaining completely safe. It’s an amazing experience that you and your family will never forget!

Hunt the monster at Loch Ness

Is there a more famous loch in the whole of Scotland than Loch Ness? Known for the Loch Ness Monster that lurks beneath the water, this beautiful natural area of Scotland has been drawing crowds for decades.

While there are plenty of visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of mythical Nessie, and there are plenty of Nessie-related shops around the loch, it’s also just a gorgeous place to walk around. While you’re there, I’d really recommend getting out on the water – this is a great way of seeing the surrounding countryside and Urquhart Castle.

You can also learn about the Loch’s 500 million years of history at the Loch Ness Centre which is well worth visiting too.

Scale new heights at the Landmark Forest Adventure Park

Feel like spiking your adrenaline with your day out in Scotland? In that case, you should head straight for the Landmark Forest Adventure Park . This family favourite has something for everything. From treetop adventures to thrilling rides and rollercoasters, it’s all about having fun out in nature. 

Whether you’re exploring the Monkey Trail, diving into history in Dinosaur World, or getting stupified in the Bamboozleum, you’re sure to have a great day out. With plenty of food outlets and toilets, you can easily spend the full day in the park without having to worry about finding a place to eat.

Hike in the Cairngorms National Park

There are few places in the UK that are more beautiful than the Cairngorms in my opinion. This huge national park is home to some of the most amazing hiking, climbing, and even skiing in the winter months in the country. 

As the Cairngorms spans over 1,000 square kilometres of land, there are hundreds of hiking trails and routes to suit all abilities and time constraints.

Whether you’re wandering the forest paths of Uath Lochans or want to bag yourself a Munro or two, there’s no better place for spend a day out in nature. 

Visit Stirling Castle

Fancy visiting one of the most important places in Scottish history? Well, get yourself to Stirling Castle ! This stunning 12th-century castle is full of art, architectural features, and history, all ready for you to dive into. Make sure you carve out plenty of time to appreciate this amazing castle – I’d suggest the full day!

Located in between the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands, Stirling Castle has always been massively important, especially when it comes to Scottish independence. In fact, thanks to its strategic and beautiful position within Scotland, Scottish royalty often stayed here and it became one of the main sites of the royal court.

Get out on the golf course

With around 550 golf courses all across Scotland, there are plenty of places where you can enjoy this popular pastime. Of course, the most famous golf courses have to be St. Andrews, Gleneagles, and Carnoustie, which are common destinations for the world’s best golfers.

You can wander from hole to hole, surrounded by gorgeous Scottish wildlife and nature, and have a relaxing game at the same time. Once you’ve finished your game, head to the clubhouse for a dram or two to celebrate.

Hit up The Scottish Malt Whisky Trail

Leave the kids at home for this Scottish day out! The Malt Whisky Trail is a collection of eight different distilleries in Scotland’s famous Speyside region. Spend your day taking guided tours of these different cultural icons and enjoying tastings along the way.

Of course, make sure you stop off on the way for a delicious Scottish meal before continuing onwards to complete the trail. If you’re a malt whisky fan, this has to be high up on your Scotland day out bucket list!

Alternatively, one of the most popular whisky tours is right in the heart of Edinburgh. This is a great introduction to whisky, and of course it’s downright delicious too.

Visit the V&A Museum in Dundee

If you’re interested in art and design, then you’re going to be excited to visit the V&A museum in Dundee. As the only V&A location outside London, this particular outpost specialises in Scottish design from architecture to tartan textiles and beyond. 

There are always different events, rolling exhibitions, and speakers at the V&A Museum so make sure that you check the website before you travel to see if there’s anything super interesting happening!

So, there you have it, the 13 best days out in Scotland. Which one is your favourite place to visit? Maybe your favourite isn’t on this list – let me know in the comments below and I’ll be sure to check it out! 

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Scotland Welcomes You

Discover All There Is To See And Do!

The Best Scotland Trips: Some Ideas For Places To See And Things To Do!

Updated 2018-02-02

You’ll find everything you need for planning the best Scotland trips right here with my recommended places for holidays, fun packed day trips, tours, and accommodation.

Choosing a well earned holiday or short break could be exactly what you need for a chance to relax and enjoy our Scottish hospitality. But of course, there are quite a few options available, so how exactly do you go about choosing the best places to visit?

If you know what you’re looking for, that’s great.

But if you’re unsure, you can relax. Wherever your interests lie, whether it’s in culture, history, breathtaking scenery, or nightlife, you’re guaranteed to find it on my selected Scotland trips. And please take some time to check the Scotland Travel Information page for the essential things you’ll need to know for travelling to and within Scotland.

Find Best Hotel Deals in towns and cities. Check the Search Flights page for the lowest air fares. Get great rates on Car Rental here. Buy Train Tickets Here and save up to 65%.

Many people visit for our history and culture. Some come for our Outdoor Activities , like golf, hiking and cycling. I would suggest that the best way to see the country is by walking, but unless you are a keen hiker then driving is recommended to allow you to see the best of the countryside. Driving here isn’t too bad, especially in the Highlands.

Still undecided? Read on and find the best places to see on YOUR trip, for all the top attractions, day trips and holidays. The places I’ve written about here are all personal favourites, but you should check out Best Time To Visit Scotland for you personally.

Some folks prefer the culture and nightlife of the city, but a lot of people take holidays here to enjoy beautiful scenery and relaxation. It’s up to you, but if you live in the city then maybe you’d be best opting for a quiet setting with stunning views, but close enough to explore the lochs and the charming wee towns and villages around them.

BEST SCOTLAND TRIPS….

I have been to the places featured here. I can recommend them all for short breaks, and good places for day trips and holidays. They are listed here in no particular order:

THE CITY OF EDINBURGH

Loch Lomond is the largest expanse of inland fresh water in Britain. It’s THE ideal base if you want a holiday that’s superbly situated for the cities of Glasgow, Stirling, and Perth, and also for exploring the beautiful rustic countryside.

If visiting Scotland, the City of Stirling should be on your itinerary, especially if you’re a history buff. But if you are looking for a bustling city centre, with good shopping, you’re also on a winner here. You simply can’t go wrong.

There are some famous sights to be seen in the Highlands, with its natural scenic beauty. Places like Glencoe, The Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and Ben Nevis. It’s ideal for outdoor activities like golf, hiking, cycling, fishing and much more.

Glasgow boasts world famous art collections, great museums and attractions, the best shopping in the UK outside London, and also some of the most vibrant and exciting nightlife in the country. You definitely won’t get bored!

It’s known as the outdoor capital of Scotland, and with good reason. Fort William is an ideal base for exploring the Highlands, with lochs, climbing, cycling, and walking facilities, and of course, the fabulous Nevis Mountain Range.

There are many popular attractions in Dundee and the surrounding area, some are suitable for the kids, some for the adults, and some for families. Plus, you’re not short of choice for good nightlife and outdoor activities either.

This part of the country is steeped in history and legend, with lots of interest for students of history and folklore. Some good attractions, with nice countryside, and Galloway became the hometown of our poet, Robert Burns.

With a consistently full programme of events like the Highland Show, Highland Dancing, Pipe Bands, and the Highland Games, there’s always something to see, and as you would expect, the city nightlife scene is absolutely buzzing.

Just 27 miles north of Perth, off the A9 road to Inverness, the Victorian town of Pitlochry has a lot happening for such a small town. There are two whisky distilleries, a castle, (of course) and the popular Pitlochry Highland Games.

Nicknamed the Granite City because of it’s many fine granite buildings. Aberdeen is great if you’re looking for a host of good events and festivals, great nightlife with a vibrant music scene, good shopping and fresh seafood.

Well written about in music and poetry, the Isle of Skye could possibly be your ideal holiday destination. It’s probably the best of Scotland trips for outdoor activities. Fantastic scenery everywhere you go. You’ll absolutely love it.

A great base for exploring east, north and central Scotland. Rich in architecture and history, with lots of attractions, shopping, restaurants, and a good base for taking in some of our best whisky distillery tours.

DISCOVER SCOTLAND TOURS….

If you do decide to pay us a visit, you may want to take a tour . Explore famous castles, historical buildings, lochs, whisky distilleries and much more.

BEST SCOTLAND DAY TRIPS….

Get some good ideas for Romantic Scottish Breaks with hotels, castle hotels, holiday cottages, or luxurious spa breaks to unwind and spoil yourself with total relaxation.

See the Scotland Travel Information page for all the information you need for travelling to and within Scotland. Get helpful advice on passports and visas, currency, weather, holiday extras, useful travel links and much more.

If you’ve never been to Scotland, then you should read these pages. By doing so you will most definitely find whatever you’re looking for. I would also advise you to have a look at the Scottish Culture page to get a better understanding of the country. You can expect good hospitality here, and you’ll return home with some very good memories.

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15 Fun Day trips from Edinburgh with Kids

There are plenty of things to do with kids in Edinburgh , however, now and again, it’s fun to get out of the city and explore a little further afield. A change is as good as a rest, right? We’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite day trips that are no more than an hour’s drive from Edinburgh (when it comes to kids, we know that the shorter the car journey, the better!).

Map of Day Trips from Edinburgh

We’ve pinpointed all the suggested day outings on the map below. Hopefully this will help you better plan your day trips!

Pick Your Own Fruit at Craigie’s Farm – 25 mins from Edinburgh

How about something a little different? Have you ever been fruit picking with your little ones? Well here’s your chance… Craigie’s farm offers you the opportunity to pick strawberries, raspberries, cherries, apples and even pumpkins at various times in the year! So much fun for the whole family. You simply pay £3 per person for a basket and off you go fruit picking. There’s also a lovely outdoor children’s play area, a great café, fantastic views to sea as well as some farm animals onsite.

• It’s close to the airport so as an added bonus your kiddos can do some plane spotting.
• The fruit picking is best in the summer when most of the fruits are in season, however, be aware that it does get busy.

→  Craigie’s Farm Website

Jupiter Artland – 25 minutes from Edinburgh

Jupiter Artland is located on the outskirts of Edinburgh (technically in West Lothian), however, it’s well worth the detour if you have the time and transport. It’s a contemporary park showcasing art installations, a woodland art trail, grass sculptures and more. There’s also a lovely teashop if you need to refuel at any point.

• If you’re on a budget, head there on a Monday for ‘‘Pay what you want Mondays’
• It’s only open from May to September so check their website before you head there.

→ Jupiter Artland Website

Dalkeith Country Park – 20 mins from Edinburgh

Located a short 20 minute drive to the South East of Edinburgh, Dalkeith Country Park is a great spot to spend an afternoon and discover the recently updated Fort Douglas play park. This fantastic adventure playground caters to all ages and includes an amazing treehouse fort, swings, zip slides, rope bridges and lofty walkways (check their website for entry prices to the Fort). Your kids won’t be disappointed! There are also various short and medium walks around the grounds. If you’re hungry then be sure to check out the recently transformed 18 th century Stableyard and Courtyard which is now home to the Restoration Yard Café.

→  Dalkeith Country Park Website

Almond Valley, Livingston – 35 mins from Edinburgh

Almond Valley Heritage Centre was a firm favourite with our kids when they were younger. It’s located in the nearby town of Livingston about half an hour’s drive from Edinburgh. It’s a fantastic site with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities for children including a museum, onsite farm animals, pedal carts, tractor rides, trampolines, playgrounds and there’s even an indoor softplay area.

→  Almond Valley Heritage Centre Website

A trip to North Berwick, East Lothian – 40 mins from Edinburgh

Hop on the train from Waverley train station or jump in the car and head to the pretty seaside town of North Berwick in East Lothian. There are plenty of things to do with children including playing on the beach, visiting the Scottish Seabird Centre, going on a boat trip, climbing up North Berwick Law, having a gelato from the icecream van or fish & chips from the Lobster Shack. There is also a great choice of small independent shops for gifts, together with excellent cafes and restaurants in the town centre. If you are lucky, you might see the many colourful boats from the local sailing having fun in the bay. Our kids particularly loved going to North Berwick by train – it’s a very easy 30 minute ride and then a short walk to the town centre.

East Lothian Beaches – 40 mins from Edinburgh

We absolutely love taking our kids to the beach – we find they’ll happily while away hours playing in the sand, building various sand structures, catching (or trying to) small fish, collecting shells, etc. Some of our favourite beaches are located in East Lothian and here are the two that top our list: Yellowcraigs and Gullane.

Yellowcraig Beach – this is hands down our favourite beach in the area. There is sheltered woodlands, dunes and a vast expanse of beach with views of Bass Rock, May Island and Fidra. Depending on your children’s age, you can even walk to North Berwick (approximately 3 miles, it’s part of the John Muir Trail) and visit Dirleton Castle on route. There’s onsite parking (£2 for the day) and an added bonus for children is the fantastic pirate themed adventure playpark located just off the path before heading towards the beach.  If you’re lucky, you might even catch the ice-cream van!

Gullane Beach (or Bents) – think large expanse of sand. There is parking onsite and it’s an easy walk down to the beach. The water is clear, the beach is clean and there is plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their time by the seaside.

East Links Family Park – 35 mins from Edinburgh

This is a truly wonderful farm themed activity park which cannot fail to impress your kiddos. Located close to Dunbar, East Links Family Park is a 35 minute drive from Edinburgh city centre and the easiest way to get there is by car. You really want to allow an entire day to visit this park as there’s so much to see and do on site! Choose from a train safari, crazy golf, the fortress, soft play areas, go karts, tractors, trampolines, haybarn climbing walls, indoor animal barn and outdoor farm animals. We couldn’t get our kids away from this place when we visited when they were younger. A real hit with our family!

→  East Links Family Park Website

National Museum of Flight, East Lothian – 40 mins from Edinburgh

This museum is fittingly located on an old airfield that was used during the 2 nd  World War, some of the original buildings have been restored. Kids will love the Concorde Experience where you can actually explore the interior of this legendary aircraft and discover its history. There are loads of interactive displays for kids to get their hands on, find out how to build a plane, test your pilot skills and learn about why planes fly.

The hangars are packed full of interesting planes from all ages, some have a military heritage while others are exclusively civilian. Do not miss getting up close and personal with the ultimate fighter, the Supermarine Spitfire.

→  National Museum of Flight website

Falkirk Wheel – 45 mins from Edinburgh

The Falkirk Wheel is an impressive rotating boat lift that connects the Union Canal with the Forth & Clyde Canal. The Wheel is really impressive to look at and is also fun to take a boat trip on. There are plenty of other family friendly activities at the Wheel including waterzorbing, Segway safaris, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding, bumper boats, peddle boats, bike hire, boat trips, a splash zone. There is something for everyone and for every age! This ranks highly among many of the fun things to do near Edinburgh with kids.

→  Falkirk Wheel Website

READ: Why not check out the book ‘Hamish McHaggis and the wonderful Water Wheel’ for your kids ( click here or on the image below)! It follows the adventures of the friendly Hamish at the Falkirk Wheel.

The Kelpies & the Helix Park – 40 mins from Edinburgh

Jump in the car and discover the 30 meter high Kelpies that rise majestically at the Helix Park. These impressive sculptures have been inspired by the mythological water spirit that is said to inhabit the Scottish lochs. Your kids will love this book! You can even join a 30 minute guided tour and get *inside* the Kelpies! There is also a fantastic Adventure Zone play park and Splash Play area. Helix Park is a short 10 minute drive from the Falkirk Wheel if you wanted to combine the two.

→  Helix Park Website

READ: Get your kids interested in the legend of the Kelpies by buying or borrowing the Secret of the Kelpie from your library ( click here or on the image below). Our daughter loved it!

Stirling Castle – 50 minutes from Edinburgh

Stirling Castle is a very child friendly castle – in fact, we might even prefer it to Edinburgh castle, gasp! Located high above the town of Stirling, the castle sits atop an old volcanic rock. There are some great spaces for kids to explore in particular the Palace Vaults in the basement of the Royal Palace. You’ll find lots of interactive displays and medieval style dressing up costumes. The area is divided up into themes such as the tailor, the stone mason, the jester, the musician and the painter – it’s educational, interesting and above all, fun! We also particularly enjoyed the Royal Palace guides – they’re great with kids and really bring the visit to life.

→  Stirling Castle Website

Blair Drummond Safari Park – 50 minutes from Edinburgh

Located close to Stirling, Blair Drummond Safari Park is a fantastic day out for both kids and grownups alike. You’ll get a chance to see Scotland’s only giraffes as well as over 350 rare and exotic animals. The park is part of the Endangered Species Breeding Programme, and supports conservation projects in the UK and around the world. There’s a new dinosaur area which is sure to be a great hit with the kids. We recommend doing the enclosure drive through first and then a walk through the park. There’s so much to see and do – you can easily spend a full day at Blair Drummond. 

→  Blair Drummond Safari Park website

Glasgow – 50 to 60 minutes from Edinburgh

An easy train ride from Edinburgh, the city of Glasgow has so much to offer families and makes a wee change from the capital. Head to the west end and check out Kelvingrove, a world class museum – be warned you can easily spend half day there. Stick to the city centre and visit the Riverside museum and adjoining Tall Ships or the Lighthouse. For the science buffs, you have the Science Centre as well as the Scotland Street School Museum.

READ: Check out ‘Hamish McHaggis and the Great Glasgow Treasure Hunt’ ( click here ) or ‘The Train to Glasgow’ if you’re travelling by train ( click here ).

Final Words

We hope you enjoyed our roundup of some of our favourite day trips from Edinburgh with kids. Is there anywhere else you would add to the list? Let us know in the comments!

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20 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh You will Love

Seen the Edinburgh Castle from many different angles and strolled a zillion times along the Royal Mile? If you have experienced all the amazing things to do in Edinburgh , it’s worth taking a day trip to uncover some of the surrounding hidden gems of Scotland .

Just outside the city’s borders, more travel adventures await, all within a few hours of Arthur’s Seat , Victoria Street and Dean Village .

Bustling cities, sleepy coastal villages , secluded seaside towns high on charm and seafood, and century-old historic castles and ruins – are all just a short drive away from Edinburgh.

No matter if you are a frequent visitor or a resident, we recommend adding a few day trips to your Edinburgh itinerary . So, hop on a train or into your car, and go on an epic adventure around Scotland.

Day Trips Less Than One Hour from Edinburgh

The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is one of the easiest day trips from Edinburgh. The city is renowned for its various avant-garde museums , friendly locals, shopping opportunities, colourful street arts and buzzing nightlife.

There are loads of fun and cultural things to do in Glasgow in a day for every traveller.

No visit to Glasgow is complete without a visit to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. From ancient Egyptian artefacts to Renaissance art, Kelvingrove houses a vast collection of 8000 objects within its 22 galleries.

Next, visit the historic Glasgow Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Mungo – the patron saint of Glasgow. It is the oldest and only surviving medieval cathedral on the Scottish mainland.

Riverside Museum is another unmissable attraction in the city. It has an impressive collection of 3,000 objects, reflecting the rich industrial legacy of Glasgow. Also, visit the nearby Tall Ship Glenlee.

Also, watch out for the beautiful street murals around the city. Before heading back to Edinburgh from your day trip, don’t forget to check out Glasgow’s diverse food scene.

How to Get to Glasgow : There are frequent bus and train services from Edinburgh. It takes around an hour and a half by bus and about 45 minutes by train.

2. Stirling

From the battleground of William Wallace’s victory against the English army to being the home of one of the oldest castles in Scotland , there are loads of awesome  things to do in Stirling  – a myriad of fascinating history waiting to be explored.

Sitting proudly over a volcanic crag, Stirling Castle is one of the most-visited castles in Scotland. It was the primary Scottish royal residence before the Act of Union with England.

From the castle esplanade, you will get a stunning panoramic view of the city, Forth River, Ochil Hills and National Wallace Monument.

Wallace Monument is another must-visit landmark in Scotland. It commemorates Sir William Wallace – one of the greatest national heroes of Scotland. Once here, you can climb the 246-step spiral staircase to reach the top of the monument. The views are well worth the effort! Also, there are exhibitions showcasing historical artefacts and busts of several famous Scottish personalities.

Other attractions in Stirling include The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum, the Battle of Bannockburn Experience, Old Stirling Bridge and Cambuskenneth Abbey.

How to Reach Stirling : You simply need to take the train from Edinburgh Waverley. It will take you to Stirling in about 50 minutes.

3. North Berwick, East Lothian

Sandy beaches, abundance of wildlife, scenic boat tours, dramatic rock formations, the smell of fresh fish & chips, golf courses and a clifftop ruined castle – North Berwick has all the ingredients for an ideal day trip from Edinburgh.

Make your way to the Scottish Seabird Centre near the beautiful North Berwick Harbour. They operate various boat trips to the local islands and give you the opportunity to see the wildlife of this area up close.

You can visit the famous Bass Rock, a tiny island on the Firth of Forth and home to the largest gannet colony in the world. Tours run from late March to early October.

North Berwick has two extensive sandy beaches. Weather permitting, you can sunbathe, picnic or explore the rock pools. Also, you can sample some delicious local seafood at Lobster Shack.

If you are up for a little hike, climb the North Berwick Law. You will get an uninterrupted view of the coast, Bass Rock, Arthur’s Seat , Edinburgh and the Pentlands.

Lastly, don’t forget to visit the Tantallon Castle, a 14th-century ruined fortress located on the outskirts of North Berwick.

How to Reach : Train from Edinburgh Waverley only takes 30 minutes to get to North Berwick.

4. South Queensferry and Inchcolm Island

Situated on the shore of the Firth of Forth, South Queensferry is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Edinburgh. The cobbled streets of this picturesque coastal town are lined with colourful houses, cosy cafes, bakeries, restaurants, traditional pubs and shops.

One of the main tourist attractions of South Queensferry is the iconic Forth Rail Bridge. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015 for its extraordinary engineering and design. When it was completed in 1890, this rail bridge was the longest single cantilever bridge in the world.

Many sightseeing tour companies offer guided boat tours of the three Forth Bridges. You might spot seals, puffins, and various species of marine wildlife.

We will highly recommend taking a boat tour to the island of Inchcolm as well. There, you will find the historic Inchcolm Abbey. It was founded in the 12th century by Augustinian monks and is called ‘Iona of the East’.

You can visit South Queensferry and Inchcolm Island in half a day. But if you are staying longer, you might add the nearby Hopetoun House and Midhope Castle to your travel itinerary.

How to Reach South Queensferry : Hop on the local Lothian Bus service 43 from Princes Street. Also, there are regular train services from Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny, which take only 15 minutes.

5. Linlithgow and Falkirk

Linlithgow is a Royal Burgh located only half an hour’s drive away from Edinburgh. Tourists visit this historic town on a day trip to explore the ruins of Linlithgow Palace.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, the palace served as one of the main residences of Scottish monarchs. Mary, Queen of Scots was born here in 1542. After your visit to the Linlithgow Palace, take a stroll around the scenic Linlithgow Loch.

Not too far from Linlithgow, Falkirk is home to two of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions – The Kelpies and The Falkirk Wheel.

Residing inside Helix Park, The Kelpies are two gigantic, metal horse-head sculptures. They are the largest equine sculptures in the world and depict the mythical creature from Scottish folklore known as Kelpie. Also, they are a homage to the horse-powered industrial heritage of this area.

The Falkirk Wheel is another feat of Scottish engineering. It is the first and only rotating boat lift in the world. It connects the Forth and Clyde Canals with the Union Canal. You can take a boat ride to experience it.

How to Reach Linlithgow and Falkirk : Trains from Edinburgh to Linlithgow take about 25 minutes. Linlithgow and Falkirk are well-connected by regular bus and train services.

6. Pentland Hills Regional Park

If you are visiting Edinburgh in summer and feel the need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, we highly recommend hopping on a bus and heading down to the Pentland Hills Regional Park. You simply can’t beat a day out in nature.

If you have climbed Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat , you would have noticed a range of hills to the south of Edinburgh. These are the Pentland Hills. It is a perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities like walking, cycling, horse riding and fishing.

There are 100km of waymarked routes around the park that are suitable for both experienced and novice hikers.

We loved the hike to Allermuir Hill. It starts from the snowsports centre at Hillend and takes around 2.5-3.5 hours. From here, you will get a sweeping view over Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, the Fife coastline and the countryside.

Scald Law is the highest point of the Pentland Hills. The hike to Scald Law starts from Flotterstone and takes about 5-6 hours.

How to Reach : There are various access points to enter the Pentlands. You can catch Lothian bus service 4 to reach Hillend. Alternatively, you can ride bus service 101, 101A and 102 to Flotterstone.

7. Roslin, Midlothian

This idyllic place is very close to Edinburgh and makes a great day trip choice.

The small village of Roslin is home to the historic Rosslyn Chapel, one of the most prominent religious sites in Scotland. The chapel appeared in Dan Brown’s famous mystery thriller novel, The Da Vinci Code and later in the movie starring Tom Hanks.

Rosslyn Chapel was founded in the mid-15th century by Sir William St Clair. The interior of this chapel is stunning. You can admire the intricate stonework and mysterious symbolism of the walls. The dramatic ornate carvings of angels, knights, gargoyles and green men make this place mysterious. There are many myths and legends associated with Rosslyn Chapel.

After exploring the chapel, take a short stroll to visit Roslin Castle. Perched over a steep-sided wooded valley overlooking the River North Esk, this ruined castle was founded in the early 14th century by the aristocratic Sinclair family.

There are various walking trails around Roslin Glen. From Roslin Castle, you can follow the signposted pathway to the gunpowder mills, reminiscent of this area’s industrial past. Also, this woodland is a haven for diverse wildlife.

How to Reach Roslin : Jump on Lothian Bus service 37 from Edinburgh city centre.

Day Trips Between One to Two Hours from Edinburgh

8. loch lomond and the trossachs national park.

Loch Lomond is one of the best places to visit in Scotland and is not too far from Edinburgh for a day trip. It is the largest freshwater lake by surface in Britain and an outstanding place to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Start your adventure from Balloch, a beautiful village on the shore of Loch Lomond. Take a wee wander around the beautiful gardens of Balloch Castle Country Park. One of the best ways to admire the lake and the surrounding landscapes is by boat cruise. Several companies operate tours from Balloch.

Another nearby tourist attraction is the tiny village of Luss . Located on the west bank of Loch Lomond, Luss is famous for its neatly lined quaint cottages, well-maintained gardens and breathtaking panoramic views of Loch Lomond. During summer, you can take a dip in the lake.

There are many hiking trails around this area. Avid walkers might consider climbing the mighty Ben Lomond. Alternatively, we recommend hiking to Conic Hill from Balmaha.

Before heading back to Edinburgh, if you have time, make your way to the historic town of Inveraray .

How to Reach Loch Lomond : There is no direct train. So, you will have to change trains at Glasgow Queen Street Station. It takes only 50 minutes from there to reach Balloch.

9. St Abbs, Scottish Borders

If you fancy visiting someplace offbeat for a day out in nature, St Abbs is the place for you. It takes about an hour to drive here from Edinburgh.

St Abbs is a small fishing village on the Berwickshire Coast in the Scottish Borders. There are plenty of things to do in St Abbs for all travellers.

Recently, the movie Avengers: Endgame was filmed in this fishing village. It also appeared in the Harry Styles music video, Adore You.

Nature lovers will love a scenic hike around the St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve. It takes approx an hour to reach the beautiful St Abbs Head Lighthouse. The view of the village and the coastline is absolutely stunning.

From May to July, thousands of seabirds nest here. Watch out for guillemots, kittiwakes, razorbills, shags, herring gulls and fulmars. Also, peel your eyes out for dolphins and porpoises.

Meander around the tiny harbour of the village. Boat tours depart from here. Pop inside the Ebbcarrs Cafe to try out their delicious crab sandwich and Cullen Skink.

How to Reach St Abbs : Take the train from Edinburgh towards Berwick-upon-Tweed. It takes about 40 minutes to reach Berwick. From there, catch the local 235 bus towards St Abbs.

10. Culross & Dunfermline, Fife

Culross is one of the prettiest villages in Scotland . Wandering through the narrow cobbled street makes you feel like you have stepped back in time. This coastal village has appeared in the popular TV series, Outlander.

Culross, combined with Dunfermline, makes a wonderful day trip choice from Edinburgh. It is perfect for all history and nature lovers.

One of the main tourist attractions of Culross is the bright-yellow-coloured Culross Palace. It was founded in the 17th century by a wealthy merchant. You can take a tour of the palace. For a lovely panoramic view, climb to the top of the palace garden. Also, check out the ruins of Culross Abbey.

Dunfermline is the newest city in Scotland. Dunfermline Abbey and Palace is a must-visit. Many notable Scottish kings and prominent historical figures are buried here. It is the final resting place of Robert the Bruce, Scotland’s great warrior king.

Later, you can visit the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum close to the abbey.

How to Reach : You can catch a bus or train from Edinburgh to get to Dunfermline. Trains only take 38 minutes. From Dunfermline, Stagecoach operates buses 8 and 8A to Culross.

Referred to as the ‘City of Discovery’, this city on the bank of the Firth of Tay is famous for its industrial and maritime heritage. In 2014, Dundee was declared the UK’s first-ever UNESCO City of Design. Dundee is the perfect destination for spending a day outside of Edinburgh.

Start your Dundee adventure with a visit to the V&A Dundee. Opened in 2018, this is the first design museum in Scotland, and entry is free. They host various galleries and exhibitions showcasing Scottish creativity. Adjacent to the museum is the RRS Discovery, a Dundee-built steamship used in Antarctic expeditions.

The McManus Art Gallery & Museum is a must-visit for all art lovers visiting the city. The stunning Gothic Revival-style building houses a great display of paintings, sculptures and artefacts.

If you have time, visit the nearby Glamis Castle, unarguably one of the prettiest castles in Scotland . Located just 12 miles from Dundee, it is the childhood home of The Queen Mother and the birthplace of Princess Margaret. 

How to Reach Dundee : The easiest way to get to Dundee is by train. Direct trains leave regularly from Edinburgh and take about an hour and a half. Also, there are bus services run by Megabus and Ember Bus.

12. St Andrews, Fife

World-famous golf courses, vast sandy beaches, a ruined medieval cathedral, and dramatic coastal views make this lovely university town a top day trip choice from Edinburgh.

The dramatic ruin of St Andrews Cathedral is a must-see tourist attraction in St Andrews . Built in the 12th century, it was the largest church in Scotland and was once an important religious site.

The cathedral museum has a great collection of Pictish carvings, medieval stoneworks and sculptures. Climb St Rule’s Tower to get a stunning view over to the city and the surrounding areas of Fife.

The Old Course in St Andrews Links is one of the most iconic places in the world for all golf lovers. Frequently referred to as the home of golf, it is one of the oldest golf courses in the world. Golf has been played here since the 15th century. It is open to the public. So, you can book a spot here too.

Take a stroll around the extensive West Sands Beach. It was featured in the movie, Chariots of Fire. Before saying goodbye to this seaside town, taste the delicious ice cream from Jannettas Gelateria.

How to Reach St Andrews : Trains from Edinburgh to Leuchars take around an hour and a quarter. There are frequent local bus services from there that will take you to St Andrews in nearly 10 minutes.

13. Melrose, Scottish Borders

Often overlooked by tourists, Scottish Borders is a fantastic place to spend a day away from Edinburgh and enjoy the Scottish countryside. Also, this area of Scotland has some of the most beautiful ruined abbeys in the UK.

Melrose is one of the most picturesque towns in the Scottish Borders and the home of the historic Melrose Abbey. It was founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks on the orders of King David I. Several Scottish royalties are buried here. Most famously, Melrose Abbey is the final resting place of the heart of the legendary Scottish warrior, Robert the Bruce.

Next, stroll around the beautiful Harmony Garden and Priorwood Garden. If you are here in summer, pop inside the Priorwood to see the blooming apple orchard.

Outdoor enthusiasts would love a hike to the nearby Eildon Hill. It takes around 3-4 hours to complete the circuit. The stunning view over Melrose and the surrounding landscapes are well worth the effort.

A five-minute drive from Melrose will bring you to Abbotsford House, the ancestral home of Sir Walter Scott, a renowned Scottish writer.

How to reach Melrose : Trains leaving from Edinburgh take about an hour to reach Tweedbank. From there, local bus services 67 and 68 take only 11 minutes to get to Melrose town centre.

14. The Fishing Villages of Fife and the Isle of May

Without a doubt, Fife has some of the prettiest seaside villages in Scotland . You can definitely visit some of these charming fishing villages on your day trip from Edinburgh. They sit on the famous Fife Coastal Path, a long-distance walking route.

Anstruther is the largest fishing port of East Neuk. Take a wander around the pretty streets and the busy harbour. This seaside settlement is famous for its fresh seafood. Try the traditional fish and chips at the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar.

From Anstruther, you can take a boat trip to explore the Isle of May. This tiny island in the middle of the Firth of Forth is home to numerous species of seabirds and wildlife. If you are visiting between April and August, the sight of cute little puffins will melt your heart.

The pretty fishing village of Crail lies about 4 miles walk along the coastline from Anstruther. Pop by Lobster Hut for some freshly caught lobsters and crabs.

Another stunning traditional fishing village in East Neuk is St Monans. Around the cosy harbour huddle a charming blend of whitewashed and colourful houses. Don’t miss to visit the photogenic St Monans Windmill and St Monans Parish Church.

How to Reach : It takes around an hour and a half to drive to Anstruther from Edinburgh. Also, you can catch Stagecoach bus X60 from the city centre.

15. Pitlochry, Perthshire

Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, Pitlochry is a charming little town in Perthshire. Dramatic vistas, extensive woodlands, scenic lochs and several hiking trails make this Victorian town a must-visit for day-trippers from Edinburgh.

We love travelling to Pitlochry in autumn when the leaves change colours, and the whole area looks absolutely spectacular.

Pitlochry is a nature lovers’ hotspot. Take a gentle stroll along the River Tummel to visit the salmon ladder and the atmospheric Loch Faskally. You can continue to follow the riverside path to Killiecrankie. Avid hikers will enjoy a walk to Ben Vrackie. From the summit, you will enjoy a spectacular view over Pitlochry and the surrounding mountains of Perthshire.

Catch a local bus from the town centre to visit the nearby Queens View. This iconic viewpoint is named after Queen Victoria, who visited this place in 1866 and fell in love with the sweeping view.

No visit to Scotland is complete without a tour of a distillery. Luckily, there are two distilleries in Pitlochry – Blair Athol Distillery and Edradour Distillery. They offer different guided tours and tasting sessions.

How to Reach Pitlochry : Direct trains from Edinburgh take around an hour and fifty minutes.

16. Newcastle

Newcastle-upon-Tyne, usually known as Newcastle, is considered the unofficial capital of North East England. From magnificent architecture to vibrant nightlife – there are plenty of fantastic things to do in Newcastle . If you love city breaks, this day trip from Edinburgh is perfect for you.

Ramble around Grainger Town, the historic heart of Newcastle. The area is named after Richard Grainger, who reshaped Newcastle in a neoclassical style in the 19th century.

Next, make your way to Newcastle Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress the city is named after. Take a tour to explore the chambers, dungeons and the prison.

Newcastle is the city of seven bridges. The iconic Tyne Bridge is the most famous of them. Constructed in 1928, it connects Newcastle with its neighbouring town, Gateshead.

Ramble along the Newcastle Quayside to enjoy stunning views of the Seven Bridges. This area on the River Tyne is brimming with various trendy restaurants, cosy cafes and gastro pubs.

Take a short bus ride to see the stunning sculpture of the Angel of the North by Antony Gormley.

How to Reach from Edinburgh : Trains from Waverley will bring you to Newcastle in about an hour and a half.

17. Alnwick Castle and Bamburgh, Northumberland

Now, we know what you must be thinking – why on earth would you go on a holiday to Scotland and then a day trip to England?

Well, with a driving time of less than two hours and well-connected public transport, it’s probably not the craziest idea.

Dramatic castles, miles of sandy beaches, fresh seafood, plenty of wildlife, and rich heritage, make Northumberland a popular day trip choice for tourists visiting Edinburgh.

The most famous attraction in this area is Alnwick Castle. It is the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK. This magnificent fortress is one of the filming locations of the Harry Potter movies. Also, it appeared in the British TV series Downton Abbey.

Castle lovers and history buffs will be delighted to visit the Bamburgh Castle. The earliest surviving part of this legendary fortress dates from the 12th century. Also, from here, you will get an awe-inspiring view of the nearby Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland’s coastline, Lindisfarne Castle and Farne Islands.

How to Reach Northumberland : Trains from Edinburgh take almost an hour to get to Alnmouth. From there, the local bus takes about 12 minutes to reach the Alnwick bus station. Local bus services are operated by Arriva and Travelsure.

The cathedral city of Durham is another city in England that you can visit on a day trip from the Scottish capital city of Edinburgh. There are tons of amazing things to do in Durham .

Durham Cathedral is the main attraction in the city. It was built in the late 11th century to house the relics of St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede. Also, it is another Harry Potter film location in the UK.

In 1986, Durham Cathedral, alongside Durham Castle, received the UNESCO World Heritage site status.

Durham Castle was built in 1072 and has served as the official residence of the Prince Bishop of Durham. You can take a guided tour to learn the history of this castle.

River Wear flows through the heart of this historic city. Walk along the riverside path for a stunning view of the Cathedral and other important city buildings.

Beamish, the Living Museum of the North, is only 22 minutes drive from Durham.

How to Reach Durham : CrossCountry and LNER operate train services from Edinburgh Waverley to Durham, and it takes only one hour and forty-five minutes.

Day Trips over Two Hours from Edinburgh

Truth be told, York is a long day trip from Edinburgh. If you’re short on time, spending a day in York will surely give you a good sense of this medieval city. It takes around two and a half hours of train journey to get here from Edinburgh.

York is an ancient city with over two thousand years of riveting history. Also, it is probably one of the most beautiful cities in the UK.

A visit to the York Minister should be on top of your York travel itinerary. This Gothic masterpiece was founded in the 7th century and has been a centre for Christianity.

A short walk from the Minister will bring you to The Shambles. This cobbled street is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. Also, like Victoria Street in Edinburgh, Shambles is believed to be one of the inspirations behind Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter series.

York is a walled city. You can walk the two miles circular route of the city wall to discover this city’s past.

Later, pop inside Betty’s Cafe Tea Rooms for an opulent afternoon tea experience.

How to Reach York : LNER and CrossCountry run frequent train services for York from Edinburgh. It is advisable to book your tickets well in advance.

20. Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms is one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland. It is heaven for outdoor lovers.

A day trip to the Cairngorms from Edinburgh is certainly doable, especially on long summer days. Although the journey time is long, the train route is very scenic. If you are travelling by car, don’t miss a visit to the pretty village of Braemar .

From Edinburgh Waverley, take a train to Aviemore, the main town of the Cairngorms. There are plenty of cafes, pubs, restaurants and shops here. Also, the historic Strathspey Steam Railway leaves from here.

You can catch a local bus service to visit Loch Morlich, a beautiful freshwater loch with a sandy beach. Loch Morlich is a great place to enjoy various water sports. Also, you can admire the stunning backdrop of the majestic Cairngorms mountains.

Cairngorm Reindeer Herd Centre is within walking distance from Loch Morlich. You can take a guided walk to visit UK’s only wild reindeer herd.

Next, take a funicular train ride by Cairngorm Mountain Railway to get a breathtaking panoramic view from 1,097m above sea level.

How to Reach : Trains from Edinburgh Waverley take around two hours and fifty minutes to reach Aviemore train station. Local bus services are operated by Stagecoach.

Map of the Best Day Trips from Edinburgh

Here is a map of all the amazing day trip choices mentioned in this article. Click on the link to save the Google map on your phone. Moreover, you can use the map offline.

We hope this guide to the best places to visit on a day trip from Edinburgh has inspired you!

From picturesque fishing villages to buzzing cities – there is everything for all travellers. So, definitely add a few of them to your next adventure in Edinburgh.

With Love Moumita & Sankha

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Monkey and Mouse

50 Best Places for Family Days Out in Central Scotland: Scotland With Kids

July 24, 2015 by Jenny Eaves

Both of my children love to be outdoors, we spend almost every day out and about.  Over time we have visited a huge amount of attractions as within Scotland .  So I thought it would be nice to collate all this information in one post, so locals or those visiting Central Scotland can have a few ideas of places to visit for family days out in Scotland with kids. This is the perfect place to explore a huge range of attractions, from some of the best museums in the United Kingdom to beautiful scenery and national parks.

Most attractions are in Central Scotland, but there a few a little further afield, but all are worth visiting on a day trip from here. If you are looking for walks in the Stirlingshire or Trossachs areas then pop over to this post here . This really is a great place for a family holiday base in Scotland.

I have also included links to any blog posts I have written about the attractions if you want to find out a bit more.  Please also check out my post with family days out with teens in Scotland over here .

Without any further ado, here are 50 family days out in Scotland (In no particular order!).

Loch Drunkie, Scotland, United Kingdom

Amazonia, Scotland, United Kingdom

Go Ape Aberfoyle , Scotland, United Kingdom

Doune Ponds Nature Reserve, Scotland, United Kingdom

Beecraigs Country Park , Scotland, United Kingdom

Auchingarrich Wildlife Park, Scotland, United Kingdom

Glasgow Botanic Gardens, Scotland, United Kingdom

Mugdock Country Park, Scotland, United Kingdom

Summerlee Heritage Museum, Scotland, United Kingdom

Broadwood Stadium Softplay, Scotland, United Kingdom

Time Capsule, Scotland, United Kingdom

Doon Hill Fairy Knowe, Scotland, United Kingdom

M&D’s Theme Park, Scotland, United Kingdom

World Of Wings, Scotland, United Kingdom

Castle Rednock Trekking, Scotland, United Kingdom

The Tall Ship, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

Firpark Ski Centre, Scotland, United Kingdom

Scottish Crannog Centre, Scotland, United Kingdom

Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

The Peak, Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom

Macrobert Arts Centre, Scotland, United Kingdom

Blairdrummond Safari Park, Scotland, United Kingdom

Almondvalley Heritage Centre, Livingston, Scotland, United Kingdom

Bannockburn Heritage Centre, Scotland, United Kingdom

Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat, Scotland, United Kingdom

Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland, United Kingdom

National Museum of Scotland, Scotland, United Kingdom

Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens, Scotland, United Kingdom

Loch Lomond Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom

Inchmahome Priory, Scotland, United Kingdom

The Kelpies and Helix Park, Scotland, United Kingdom

Falkirk wheel, Scotland, United Kingdom

Little Drum Wood, Scotland, United Kingdom

Loch Katrine, Scotland, United Kingdom

Bracklinn Falls, Scotland, United Kingdom

Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, Scotland, United Kingdom

Glasgow Science Centre, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

Riverside Museum, Scotland, United Kingdom

Loch Lomond Aquarium, Balloch, Scotland, United Kingdom

Bass Rock, Auldhame, Scotland, United Kingdom

Isle of May , Scotland, United Kingdom

Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick, Scotland, United Kingdom

Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre, Scotland, United Kingdom

Stirling castle , Scotland, United Kingdom

The Wallace Monument, Scotland, United Kingdom

Doune Castle, Scotland, United Kingdom

Wonderworld Softplay, Falkirk, Scotland, United Kingdom

Elie, Scotland, United Kingdom

The Lodge, Aberfoyle, Scotland, United Kingdom

Wellsfield Farm Park, Scotland, United Kingdom

Briarlands Farm, Scotland, United Kingdom

Table of Contents

Family Days Out In Scotland With Kids – Family Days Out In Stirlingshire

1.   briarlands farm  park , stirling..

Beginning our list of family days out in Scotland, is Briarlands Farm. A farm park with an indoor play area, cafe, craft station and outdoors there are play areas, animal feeding and tractor rides.  Plus strawberry picking in season.

2 .   Doune Castle , Doune.

Things to do in Scotland have to include some castles and Doune Castle is a great one to start with.  It’s a small Historic Scotland castle used in several films/TV programmes including Monty Python’s Holy Grail (they even have coconut halves in the shop to try out!) and recently Outlander.

3.   The Lodge , Aberfoyle.

Woodland walks with little activities hidden away for kids (or big kids), red squirrels hide, cafe, visitor centre with wildlife cameras.

4 .   Wallace Monument , Bridge of Allan.

The monument to Sir William Wallace, set in a lovely woodland is one of the best things to do with kids in Stirling.  The monument had several floors (winding staircase to the top) with information and activities, great views from the top.  Check their website for special events, particularly in the summer months.

5 .   Stirling Castle , Stirling.

Things to do in Stirling have to include a visit to Stirling Castle! It’s a popular castle with loads to see and do for adults and kids alike, you can easily spend a whole day here. Learn about the famous kings and queens who lived at the castle, including Mary Queen of Scots.  Cafe and shop at the castle.

6. Bracklinn Falls , Callander.

A woodland walk above the town of Callander. The stunning waterfall can be seen from an equally beautiful, modern bridge. You can easily walk to the bridge and back or go a little further along other woodland paths. We love to have lunch on the pebble shores and throwing stones into the water.

7 .   Loch Katrine , Brig of Turk.

Bring your own bikes or hire them and cycle along the road around one side of the loch, if you get all the way to the end you can catch the steam boat back to the car park.  Steam boat trips from the car park area and a lovely walk with amazing scenery around the loch.  Check out this post for a few photos.

8 .   Little Drum Wood , Between Kilmahog and Brig of Turk.

A gorgeous woodland with lots of features for kids to splash, bang, hide and be creative with.  Check this post out for more photos and a video.

9 .   Inchmahome Priory ,  Lake of Mentieth , Port of Mentieth.

We’ve been along the shores of Lake of Mentieth, but we’re yet to visit Inchmahome Priory, the main attraction.  This priory is situated on a small island in the middle of the lake (Scotland’s only lake) and is where Mary Queen of Scot’s spent a few weeks as a child when there was a possibility of an English invasion.  Interesting history and a beautiful island to visit along with a picnic.

10 .   Bannockburn Heritage Centre , Stirling.

Learn about the historic battle of Bannockburn, from battle preparation to the battle itself, lead by the Battlemaster through a state-of-the-art 3D battle simulation.

11 .   Castle Rednock Trekking , Port of Mentieth

Pony trekking, segway trekking, quad pods, orienteering and wellie boot course.  Activities suitable from 3+ years old.

12 .   Doon Hill Fairy Knowe , Aberfoyle.

A lovely walk from the village of Aberfoyle to the mystical Doon Hill, where there are fairy houses and doors along the path.  The trees at the top are coloured ribbons and wishes to the fairies.  Definitely read the story of Robert Kirk before going!

13 .   Blairdrummond Safari Park , Stirling.

When you first come in you can choose to go round the drive through safari and then park to walk around the rest of the site.  There are a large variety of animals to see, including a boat ride to the chimp island and a petting farm.  There is also a large pirate ship play park, amusements and eateries.

14 .   Macrobert  Arts Centre , University of Stirling.

They have kids showings of various films and even a parent and toddler showing, where it doesn’t matter if your littlest is running around!  There are also productions throughout the year, some of which might be suitable for kids.

15 .   The Peak , Stirling – Scotland With Kids

A large sports village where you can go swimming (including toddler pool and a shallow learning pool), ice skating, jump on a Pirate ship bouncy castle, go to trampolining, dance and football classes, plus lots more.  Check out their website for times and dates of activities.

16 .   Doune Ponds Nature Reserve , Doune – Scotland With Kids

A reclaimed sand and gravel quarry, with 3 large ponds and a variety of wildfowl.  An easy walk for children around the ponds and feeding the ducks.  I mention this reserve here .

17 .   Go Ape , Aberfoyle

Two 400m long zip wires over a spectacular waterfall and beautiful forest.  Tree top adventure, climbing, swinging and jumping in the trees.  So much fun!

18 .   Loch Drunkie , Aberfoyle.

An easy woodland walk beside the loch with several musical installations including a giant glockenspiel and wooden bell-ringing pavilion.

19. The Pineapple , Airth.

A must see simply for the stunning architecture of one giant Pineapple building! The gardens and pond are beautiful for a walk and picnic and there are several walks around the area.

20. Little Drum Wood , Between Kilmahog and Brig of Turk.

A gorgeous woodland with lots of features for kids to splash, bang, hide and be creative with. Check  this post  out for more photos and a video.

21. Macrobert  Arts Centre , University of Stirling.

They have kids showings of various films and even a parent and toddler showing, where it doesn’t matter if your littlest is running around! There are also productions throughout the year, some of which are suitable for kids.

22. The Peak , Stirling.

A large sports village where you can go swimming (including toddler pool and a shallow learning pool), ice skating, jump on a Pirate ship bouncy castle, trampolining, dance and football classes, plus lots more. Check out their website for times and dates of activities.

23. Castle Rednock Trekking , Port of Mentieth.

Pony trekking, segway trekking, quad pods, orienteering and wellie boot course. Activities suitable from 3+ years old.

24. Argaty Red Kites, Doune .

A project to maintain a self sustaining population of Red Kites in the wild. The Kites are fed at a certain time each day. You can book to visit the hide and attend a guided walk around the site. Under 6’s are free.

25. Go Ape , Aberfoyle.

Two 400m long zip wires over a spectacular waterfall and beautiful forest. There is plenty of outdoor adventure to be had on the tree top trail, climbing, swinging and jumping in the trees from various apparatus. You can also wander around the forest nature trails afterward.

26. Loch Drunkie , Aberfoyle.

27. the smith art gallery and museum , stirling..

The museum part is great for children and adults to learn more about the Stirlingshire area. There are also changing exhibitions in the different art galleries that are always interesting to check out. It’s free to enter, although donations are very much welcomed.

28.   Scottish Crannog Centre , Loch Tay.

An indoor exhibit on the history of Crannog’s and underwater archaeology, a guided tour of a reconstructed crannog and a variety of demonstrations of ancient crafts and technology.  This is best for kids 4+, but younger children are welcome too. Although the crannog burnt down in 2021, a new crannog will soon be built across Loch Tay. For now there are still all the fantastic experiences that were always outside the crannog, learning about the history of the Scottish people from various hands on demonstrations.

29 .   Auchingarrich Wildlife Park , Comrie.

A lovely wildlife park that has plenty of animals to visit, talks, animal feeding, indoor and outdoor play areas for the children, mini golf, pony rides and a great cafe.

Family Days Out In Scotland With Kids – Family Days Out In Falkirk

30 .   wonderworld softplay , falkirk..

Recently refurbished and changed names from Monster Mania, which has a huge softplay with different areas for toddlers and older children, plus a go-kart track. The kids will have a great time exploring the soft play will parents can sit down with a coffee for a few minutes. It’s a great way to let the kids run off some energy on a wet day.

31.   Jupiter Wildlife Centre , Grangemouth.

*SWT are no longer going to be running Jupiter, but it’s hoped another organisation will take over.

It doesn’t look too much from the outside, but it’s a lovely woodland with several ponds and wildlife areas.  Visit the centre when you arrive to pick up pond dipping kit or wild flower bingo and other activities for free. Check out our pond dipping here .

32 .   Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway , Bo’ness.

Steam railway, check times of trains before you go.  A lovely museum to visit with old steam trains, moving model trains in an old carriage, shop and cafe.  Often have special ‘Thomas’ Big Day Out’ and at Christmas there are Santa trains.

33 .   Falkirk Wheel , Falkirk – Scotland With Kids

The world’s only rotating boat lift, used to lift canal boat up to a height that normally would take many locks.  There is also a fabulous cafe, shop and a children’s water park area, plus mini golf in the summer.  Plenty for the kids to do in the water play area even if you don’t go on the wheel itself.  I’ve written all about our Falkirk Wheel visit here .

34 .   The Kelpies and Helix Park , Falkirk.

The Kelpies are two massive sculptures of horse heads located just off the M9.  There are tours available of the Kelpies and you can even go inside one as part of the tour.  The helix park includes many walkways that are great for bikes and scooters, a play park, small loch with canoes and pedal boats available for hire and various little food vans and cafes.  Check out my post here for more info.

35. Kinneil house , Kinneil.

We had a lovely visit on there open day last year. A free tour around the house and then exploring the gardens and the small museum too. Check out the opening times and any upcoming open days  here .

36. Airthrill Trampolining , Falkirk.

Children aged 5 and over will love being able to bounce off the 70 interconnected trampolines and perform their own stunts. My kids love Airthrill Trampolining and it makes for a great place to visit for family days out in Scotland.

Family Days Out In Scotland With Kids – Family Days Out In Fife and Clackmannanshire

37.   fife beaches ..

Fife has many fabulous beaches, our favourites are at Elie and Silversands, Aberdour.  Check out our visit to Silversands here .

38.   Isle of May , Anstruther.

Boat trips from Anstruther out to the Isle of May.  A.K.A. Puffin Island.  The most amazing island to visit if you want close encounters with Puffins and other sea birds.

39 .   Firpark Ski Centre , Tillicoultry.

Try out skiing, snowboarding or tubing with the kids on this 120m dry ski slope.  A little hard to find, hidden behind a local school, but fun for the kids, phone to book.

40. Castle Campbell , Dollar.

This is a relatively new find of ours and you can read more about it  here . The castle is found up a winding road above the village and is incredibly atmospheric. It’s also set above the stunning Dollar glen, worth a visit just for a walk along the steep glen.

41. Alloa Tower , Alloa.

Set in the centre of Alloa it’s very easy to get to and is only a small property. Despite it’s size, the tower is still an interesting visit and you can really learn a lot from the few rooms. Of course the view from the roof is brilliant on a clear day. You can read more about our visit  here .

Family Days Out In Scotland With Kids – Family Days Out In Glasgow and Dunbartonshire

42 .   lomond shores and aquarium , balloch..

An excellent aquarium ( Check this post out for a review ), beach area where you can hire pedalos, road train, playground and rides for kids.  Areas to walk around, shops and cafes.

43 .   Riverside Museum , Glasgow.

Free to enter, Scotland’s transport museum with a cobbled street and tram, trains, cars, bikes, underground train area to look at up close.  Various interactive features around the museum.  Cafe and shop.

44 .   Glasgow Science Centre , Glasgow.

This is on my list to visit this summer.  The science centre has 100’s of interactive exhibits, a planetarium and giant IMAX theatre.  Plus they have different events throughout holidays and at weekends. This is an excellent family day out on a rainy day, you can easily spend a day here with something interesting for the whole family.

45 .   Loch Lomond Islands , Loch Lomond – Scotland With Kids

I visited several of the islands in my early twenties as a volunteer and with my husband (then boyfriend) when he worked on some of the islands.  You can get trips out to the islands from various points around the loch, some islands have basic campsites, some inhabited and others not.  One island, Inchconnachan even has resident wallabies!

46 .   The Tall Ship , Glasgow – Scotland With Kids

The Tall Ship, Glenlee, is docked behind Riverside transport museum.  There are information boards around the ship, although we haven’t yet had time to read them due to the children’s toddler soft play area and various child friendly activities on the bottom deck.  The ship is free to enter, although you can pay £4 for a guidebook to help in the upkeep of the ship.

47 .   World of Wings ,  Cumbernauld – Scotland With Kids

Scotland’s largest collection of bird’s of prey.  Birds can be viewed at close quarters and summer flying times are 12 noon and 3pm.

48 .   M&D’s Theme Park , Motherwell.

Scotland’s theme park, with 5 white knuckle rides and over 20 kids rides and attractions.  There is also a glow-in-the-dark bowling area, soft play and restaurants.

49 .   Time Capsule , Coatbridge.

A water park with rapids, hair-raising rides, lazy river and a gentle cove for little ones.  There is also an ice rink, 3-tier soft play area and 2 cafes.

50 .   Broadwood Stadium Soft Play , Cumbernauld.

A small soft play with areas for babies/toddlers and older children.  Alongside is a little cafe area.

51 .   Summerlee Heritage Park , Coatbridge.

A half kilometre electric tram track featuring shiny restored trams, adventure play park, recreated mine and miners cottages, kids can  dress up  in traditional clothing too if they like.  Free entry, aside the tram ride (approx. £1).

52 .   Mugdock Country Park , Milngavie.

A fantastic  country park  with lots to do.  There are walks, cycle paths, trails (including a lovely scavenger hunt for younger children), visitor centre, play park and adventure trail.  There are several lovely craft shops and eateries as well.

53 .   Glasgow Botanic Gardens , Glasgow.

Beautifully laid out gardens, fun for a play and wander around.  Take a picnic or eat at the cafe there. This is a lovely place for young children to explore and play.

You can also find other museums in Glasgow, including the Kelvingrove Art Gallery with a great range of exhibits that interest children. Plus it has a play park for children of all ages nearby.

54 . Amazonia , Motherwell.

Indoor tropical rainforest beside M&D’s theme park.  There are handling sessions, interactive exhibits, feeding and talks.

55. Tollcross Children’s Farm , Glasgow.

A small inner city farm that helps city children learn more about farm life. Lots of animals to see and other activities too.

56. The Lighthouse Gallery , Glasgow.

I have been visiting Glasgow since I was a tiny child, yet I only learnt about this place this year! It was originally the Scottish Herald’s buildings (where my Grandpa once worked) and now hosts some interesting exhibitions that change throughout the year. The jewel in the crown is the old water tower, which now holds a tall spiral staircase with a view at the top across the Glasgow roof tops. Entrance is free, although there is a small cafe and shop if you would like to support the gallery

57. Chatelherault Country Park , Hamilton.

This was a favoured place to visit when I was a child, my grandpa lived nearby and we loved the adventure park. Aside the adventure playground there are also walks through the 500 acres of countryside, cafe and visitor centre and is home to an 18th century hunting lodge.

58. David Livingstone Birthplace , Blantyre.

The David Livingstone Birthplace is set in David Livingstone’s former home, Shuttle Row, which his family shared with 23 other families. Learn about the famous explorer and missionary and his travels in Africa. The exhibit was reopened in July 2021 after a very extensive refurbishment. You can read more about the museum as a  day out with kids here .

There is also a cafe, shop and great play park for the kids to enjoy.

59. New Lanark Visitor Centre , New Lanark.

One of Scotland’s World Heritage Sites, a 200 year old cotton mill that was planned by Robert Owen to be a utopian society where all the workers would be happy and healthy. The kids will love the exhibits just as much as the adults.

60. Falls of the Clyde , New Lanark.

This Scottish Wildlife Trust site has a fantastic little interactive visitor centre at New Lanark. Maps are available with the pathways across the reserve, but the most popular and easiest route is along to the beautiful Cora Linn waterfall.

61. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , Glasgow.

Kelvingrove is easily visited by car or public transport and is well worth a visit. It is home to one of Europe’s best art collections and is free to enter. Check out their website for more information on events and latest exhibitions.

62. Whitelee Wind Farm  Visitor Centre.

Learn more about how wind turbines work and use the interactive exhibits at the visitor centre to see if you can build an efficient wind farm. Bus tours to get closer to the wind turbines are also available. There’s also a little cafe if you’re feeling peckish.

63. Balloch Castle Country Park , Balloch.

Balloch castle country park is on the eastern side of Loch Lomond, with amazing views up the loch. The country park consists of around 200 acres of woodland, parkland and gardens.

Family Days Out In Scotland With Kids – Family Days Out In Edinburgh and The Lothians

64.   scottish seabird centre , north berwick..

A great day out for the family, lots to do for children in the Discovery centre and a lovely beach outside to play on too.

65 .   Bass Rock , North Berwick.

Boat trips around the rock, watching the hundreds of thousands of sea birds flying to and from the rock.  There are often seals to see as well.

66 .   Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens , Edinburgh.

In Scotland’s capital city you’ll find the Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh. Beautiful gardens that adults and kids can run around and explore, bring a picnic in nice weather although there is also a cafe.  You need to pay to enter the glasshouses, but they are well-kept and worth paying a little to help with the upkeep of the gardens.

67 .   National Museum of Scotland , Edinburgh.

A short walk up the hill from Princes street and over the Royal Mile is the National Museum of Scotland (for kids it’s amazing). There is so much to see at the museum that you’ll probably just want to focus on certain areas of interest.  Everything from the story of how our planet and creatures formed, world cultures and the story of Scotland.  There are also various areas aimed at children, plus a cafe and shop.

68. Edinburgh Castle , Edinburgh.

No family days out in Scotland post could be complete with  Edinburgh Castle . Edinburgh castle is recognised the world over and is often high on any visitors list of places to  visit in Scotland . Explore the castle and discover the secrets behind closed doors, but don’t forget to listen out for the 1 O’clock gun!

69 .   Edinburgh Zoo , Edinburgh.

There are a whole host of animals (as you would expect!) from Giant Panda’s to penguins, there is plenty to keep kids and adults entertained.  Various talks and close encounters are held throughout the day.  There are various eateries and a shop.

70 .   Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat , Edinburgh.

Arthur’s seat is the remnant of volcanic activity millions of years ago and sculpted by ice in the last ice age.  It was once used as a Royal Pleasure Park and before this there was an iron age hill fort on the peak.  Now it’s open to everyone and you can explore the grssland, climb to the top and have amazing views over Edinburgh and watch the ducks and other birdlife on Duddingston Loch.

Don’t forget to head over to Edinburgh Castle too, it’s great for families! With Camera Obscura just round the corner and a short walk down the Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace, there is plenty to do in the area.

71. Almond Valley Farm , Livingston

A museum, farm and discovery centre.  There are a large variety of animals to meet, trailer ride, narrow gauge railway, outdoor and indoor play areas, interactive displays and activities in the museum and delicious food from the milk bar.  Definitely somewhere that we must visit very soon.

72. Edinburgh International Climbing Arena , Edinburgh.

A world class climbing arena with a huge amount of routes across the walls. It’s not just for professionals though, anyone can come along and try out their skill, from the clip & climb section to toddlers in the Rock Tots playroom or Scrambles softplay.

73 .   Beecraigs Country Park , Linlithgow.

Another great Scottish country park with miles of trails and paths to walk, cycle and run.  There is an adventure play area and orienteering maps available.

74. Camera Obscura , Edinburgh.

This has been on my to-do list for quite a while now, but we haven’t made it. There are 5 floors of optical experiences that have been amusing visitors since 1853. I have been reliably informed it’s a must see!

75. Museum of Childhood , Edinburgh.

The first museum to focus solely on childhood. You can look at years of toys and try some hands on activities too. Not just for the kids!

76. Dynamic Earth , Edinburgh.

This is one of the kids favourite museums, it’s an awesome place for everyone. Experience the primeval forces of nature as you learn about how the planet was formed and journey from polar ice caps (touching a real iceberg!) to the sticky heat of the tropical rainforest. There are loads of interactive activities that the kids will love. Plus the cafe and a small softplay for toddlers makes it a great place for family day out in Scotland.

77. Conifox Adventure Park , Edinburgh

Conifox is just outside of Edinburgh, 5 minutes from the airport. It’s a great adventure park for all ages, with go-karts, bouncy pillow, games, football golf and lots more! You can read more about  Conifox over here .

There should be a new softplay centre opening in 2021 too, which looks massive from the plans and will be fantastic for wet days. Beside the adventure park is the Stables Bistro restaurant for delicious meals.

78. Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat , Edinburgh.

Arthur’s seat is the remnant of volcanic activity millions of years ago and sculpted by ice in the last ice age. It was once used as a Royal Pleasure Park and before this there was an iron age hill fort on the peak. Now it’s open to everyone and you can explore the grassland, climb to the top and have amazing views over Edinburgh and watch the ducks and other birdlife on Duddingston Loch.

79. Deep Sea World , South Queensferry.

Experience the underwater world, visiting the many different types of sea life in the world’s oceans. It also boasts the longest underwater tunnel in the UK. Plenty to see and do for a family day out.

80. Beecraigs Country Park , Linlithgow.

Another great Scottish country park with miles of trails and paths to walk, cycle and run. There is an adventure play area and orienteering maps available.

81. Jupiter Artland , West Lothian.

If you are looking for somewhere a bit different to take the kids to then Jupiter Artland is perfect. The grounds are filled with a variety of sculptures and there are also some indoor exhibits beside the reception area, along with a small cafe.

82. Linlithgow Palace , Linlithgow.

A Historic Scotland property in the heart of Linlithgow and beside the beautiful loch. Easy to get to by train and a fantastic place for children to explore. There are plenty of stairs, nooks, windows and of course amazing views from the top of one of the remaining towers. The ‘Peel’, the area of grassland beside the Palace is perfect for letting kids run around or to eat a picnic, they are also where the annual jousting event takes place.

83. Paradise Island Adventure Golf , Livingston.

Within the Livingston Designer Outlet you can participate in a family friendly adventure golf experience. The kids will love getting to grips with the different holes and the adults are likely to get competitive as they follow the course round.

84. National Museum of Flight , East Fortune.

A little gem in East Lothian, near Edinburgh. There are several events throughout the year, which we love to visit. However, you can enter the museum buildings throughout the year to visit their hangars full of aircraft and interactive exhibits.

Other Places To Visit In Scotland With Kids

If you are heading North to the Scottish Highlands after the Central Belt then you may be interested in this guide to travel on the Isle of Skye (via Fort William to see Ben Nevis!) or these excellent ideas for a Scottish road trip . Another place people like to stop in on the way North is Aviemore . Th is post about Aviemore covers everything you need to know including visiting the Cairngorms National Park for a trip up Cairngorm Mountain or a day trip to Loch Ness to spot the Loch Ness monster!

Read More Scotland With Kids Posts

20 Stunning Locations for Paddling and Wild Swimming Scotland

70+ Places To Visit With The Kids In Central Scotland: Family Days Out Scotland

The Lesser Known Scottish Island: Gigha

Pin Family Days Out in Scotland With Kids For Later

 An updated list with another 70 places for family days out in Scotland can be found over here .

Reader Interactions

January 5, 2016 at 3:14 pm

Great ideas. 5 sisters zoo is also a good place to visit

Rhonda says

April 12, 2016 at 3:06 am

Newmilns dry ski slope for skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Great value for money!

Mairi Mack says

July 21, 2016 at 2:24 pm

Alva Glen; Castle Campbell, Dollar; Glen Finglas woodland walk, Brig o Turk; Plean Country Park; Smith Art Gallery, Stirling; the chainsaw sculptures trail in front of Stirling Castle; Summerlee museum, Cumbernauld;

August 10, 2016 at 3:43 pm

This is exactly what I’ve been needing for our trip up to Scotland next month. So helpful! Thank you!

Jenny Eaves says

August 10, 2016 at 6:11 pm

I would also add Jupiter Artland to that list now too (near Livingston). It is amazing and can’t believe I hadn’t heard of it! Have a great trip! x

Henry Harrison says

January 31, 2017 at 5:09 pm

Just found this today through twitter and am bookmarking it. We’ll be near Loch Lomond for a month March/April. This is a fantastic list. Thanks.

Elizabeth says

May 4, 2017 at 9:02 am

Great site when looking for places to take the bairns

The 8 best day trips from Glasgow for lochs, islands, and highlands

Feb 6, 2022 • 5 min read

From nearby beauty spots to scenic coastal escapes, here are the best day trips from Glasgow © Digital Vision / Getty Images

With  Glasgow’s renowned nightlife and music scene, its ever-growing culinary reputation, expansive parks and revered museums, you can have a ball without ever venturing outside the city limits. But thanks to its geographical position, Glasgow is the perfect base from which to enjoy Scotland’s raw nature and dramatic scenery.

To the north, south, east or west, here are eight of the best day-trip destinations from Glasgow.

See renowned L och Lomond and the charming village of Luss

One of the country’s most treasured spots, Loch Lomond and its surrounds offer beauty by the beach, on the water, and way up high. Whether you choose to go for a stroll on the shore at charming Luss village, paddle a kayak to one of the loch’s many islands from lush Balmaha , or conquer your first Munro in 974m (3195ft)   Ben Lomond , this national park offers postcard-perfect sights from almost every angle.

How to get to there from Glasgow  

It's best to take the car; it’s a 35-minute drive from Glasgow. Public transport is available, with a train station at Balloch on the loch’s southern edge.

Get a dose of Scottish history at Stirling Castle

Often overlooked for its more widely-known neighbor in Scotland’s capital, Stirling Castle is just as grand, if not more so, than its Edinburgh counterpart. Perched atop a volcanic rock, the castle is as dramatic as it is historic. Overlooking the famous battlegrounds of Bannockburn and Stirling Bridge, Stirling Castle has played vital roles in the stories of William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and Robert the Bruce.

How to get to there from Glasgow

Stirling is just a 31-minute train ride from Queen Street station, or a 40-minute drive from Glasgow city center.

Enjoy the best of Scotland's raw nature in the Perthshire Highlands

There are few better places to witness Scotland’s spectacular countryside than in Pitlochry and the surrounding Perthshire Highlands . Queen’s View offers the perfect platform from which to make the most of the area’s raw nature, with the Schiehallion mountain a beautiful backdrop to the awesome sight of Loch Tummel below. The similarly stunning Faskally Wood breeds an atmosphere of adventure, while Blair Athol and Edradour distilleries  — the latter of which is the smallest in Scotland — is where visitors warm up with a wee dram of Scotland’s national drink.

Pitlochry and the surrounding countryside is best explored by car, with the town a 1 hour 40 minute drive from Glasgow.

Taste spectacular seafood in Oban

The gateway to the idyllic Hebridean Islands , this quaint harbor town offers picturesque views across the bay to Kerrera and Mull from the excellent vantage point at McCaig’s Tower , the intriguing and unmissable structure modeled on Rome’s Colosseum. For fans of lobster, mussels, and scallops, the call of award-winning seafood would be worth the trip alone. On your drive from Glasgow, consider stops by Castle Stalker (as featured in the 1975 film  Monty Python and the Holy Grail ) and the similarly impressive Kilchurn Castle on the often unheralded Loch Awe.

While there are trains from Glasgow to Oban, taking a car is quicker (2.5 hours) and allows you to visit many of fantastic sights on the way.

Spend a day on the scenic Isle of Arran

Lovingly described as "Scotland in miniature", for years Arran has proved a west coast sanctuary for Glaswegians keen to escape the city. For the adventurous, a climb up Goat Fell (the origin of the name still remains unclear) is a must, while a more relaxing outing may have you wind down at the excellent whisky distillery . A trip to King’s Cave  (of Robert the Bruce fame) and Brodick Castle will give a great insight into the island’s vast history.

Take the train from Glasgow Central station to Ardrossan Harbour (approx 45 minutes), from where ferries to Brodick (55 minutes) run at least five times daily.

Tour the sights of Edinburgh, Glasgow's fierce rival

Although Glaswegians steadfastly refute suggestions Edinburgh is the better city, they won’t begrudge visitors taking a trip to the capital to admire its awe-inspiring sights. The contrasts between these two neighbors are stark in terms of looks, feel and the locals. A day in Edinburgh would be best enjoyed exploring the castle , trekking up to Arthur’s Seat , and ambling down the Royal Mile in the Old Town . You’ll love it: just don’t harp on about it too much when you return to Glasgow.

Trains runs as often as every 15 minutes from Queen Street Station to Edinburgh Waverley and Haymarket, taking between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes.

Learn about Scotland's great poet, Robert Burns, on the Ayrshire coast

The birthplace of Auld Lang Syne, the Scots song sung around the world every New Year’s Eve, Ayrshire is the home of its creator and Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Immerse yourself in the words and stories of the bard at the Burns Birthplace Museum and Burns Cottage . Drive a little further down the coast and stop by regal Culzean Castle and take in nearby views of iconic island Ailsa Craig.

The Burns Museum can be reached by car in 45 minutes from Glasgow. Public transport options are available, involving taking the train and a local bus.

Cycle around the island of Great Cumbrae

Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Largs, the population of this small west coast island balloons when summer arrives, as families descend upon Great Cumbrae to experience its old-world holiday feel. A leisurely 10-mile trip on two wheels around the "island of 1000 bicycles" is almost mandatory, as is a stroll along the promenade with a classic Scottish fish supper. Great Cumbrae is also the home of Britain’s smallest cathedral .

Largs, where the ferry departs from the mainland, is easily accessible by train (1 hour) from Glasgow Central station. Ferries run approximately every half-hour, more frequently in summertime. 

You might also like: The 15 best things to do in Glasgow for fun (no kilt required)    27 things you should know before visiting Edinburgh: Why does it smell? Can I use English money? And more    The best things to do in Scotland from festivals to puffins and peaks   

This article was first published Nov 8, 2019 and updated Feb 6, 2022.

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20 easy day trips from edinburgh, scotland.

Edinburgh is an incredible city and a great place to base yourself when you visit Scotland. If you’re planning on staying there, but want to venture outside the city and explore more of the nearby country, check out these 20 amazing day trips from Edinburgh.

The Scottish capital city of Edinburgh is an unbelievably beautiful city and offers a snapshot of everything that travelers love about Scotland . Take the Royal Mile, the cobblestone heart of central Edinburgh, as an example. It has the dramatic Edinburgh Castle at one end and Holyrood Palace at the other, with churches, labyrinthine alleys, authentic pubs, and more in between.

Edinburgh is also a UNESCO City of Literature with a long history of famous authors, large city parks, and six hills. Not only can you see the city from several panoramic viewpoints but you can also appreciate the country’s famous natural landscapes right from Scotland’s capital.

But there are also so many amazing day trips from Edinburgh that will allow you to see much more of Scotland and other places in the British Isles. The Loch Ness Monster, the bustling metropolis of Glasgow, picturesque Glen Coe, and charming fishing villages are just a short car or train ride away.

This guide covers all of the best day trips from Edinburgh no matter your interests or travel style based on first-hand experiences with lots of insider tips. No matter which day trips you choose (because you should take more than one!), you’re bound to have an incredible time on your mini Scotland side trip.

If you’re looking for the best neighborhood to stay in, be sure to check out my guide on where to stay in Edinburgh.

• Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews & blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Scotland:

Get an Easy Scotland Itinerary

Our favorite hotels in Scotland

• Castle Hotel : Crossbasket Castle
• Edinburgh Hotel : Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
• Inverness Hotel : Kingsmills Hotel
• Isle of Skye Hotel : Skeabost House

Our favorite tours in Scotland

• Isle of Skye Tour
• Highlands Tour
• Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Food Tour
• Book a Photoshoot in Scotland use code WANDERLUST for $25 off

Renting a Car in Scotland

If you want to see authentic Scotland, I recommend you drive yourself. If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use:  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars.  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

• Get your free Scotland Travel Planner

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Getting Around on your Edinburgh Day Trips

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You can choose to take the train, bus, tour, or rent a car on your day trips from Edinburgh. I’ll lay out each option for you.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

1. Inverness and Loch Ness

Visiting Loch Ness, one of the largest lochs in Scotland, and searching for the mythical and illusive Loch Ness Monster is high on many people’s bucket lists. But if you look at a map, you’ll see that Loch Ness and Edinburgh are pretty far away.

They are, but visiting Loch Ness on the trail of the Loch Ness Monster is still doable and one of the most exciting and best day trips from Edinburgh. Especially if you take an Edinburgh to Inverness tour so you don’t tire yourself out with driving!

You can also visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness and take a cruise on Loch Ness itself. If you have extra time, head into the city of Inverness (the unofficial capital of the Highlands that sits just north of Loch Ness) and visit Leaky’s Bookshop and Inverness Castle too.

Urquhart Castle is definitely one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland due to its position looming above Loch Ness. You’ll be able to compare Urquhart Castle to Edinburgh Castle when you return to the city.

Explore more in my guide to Inverness.

By Car: Head north on Motorway 9 (M9) and then the main A9 road which takes you all the way to Inverness. You can then drive south on the A82 and the smaller roads around Loch Ness. There are lots of places to park around Loch Ness.

By Train/Bus: Book a direct train on ScotRail or a Megabus service if you are on a budget from Edinburgh to Inverness. Hop on a local Inverness bus service (either N 17 or 917) to Lochend to reach Loch Ness.

By Tour: There are tons of Edinburgh day tours to Loch Ness via great tour companies like Rabbie’s Tours or Haggis Adventures. Take a guided tour that also includes Loch cruises on Loch Ness.

Distance from Edinburgh: 157 miles (approx 3.25 hours)

Taking a day trip to Glasgow from Edinburgh is perfect if you want to experience more city life in Scotland. Glasgow is only a few miles west of Scotland’s capital in Central Scotland (also known as the Central Belt) and it’s very easy to see most of what the city center has to offer on Edinburgh day trips.

Buchanan Street is Glasgow’s main high street and where you’ll find lots of great whisky bars, restaurants, and shops. George Square is close to Buchanan Street and is the home of lots of historic buildings like the Glasgow City Chambers and other beautiful Art Deco, Victorian, and Georgian buildings.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery is a must-visit in Glasgow for history buffs and a great place to take your kids. The Modern Art Gallery is also worth seeing, if only for the infamous orange traffic cone that sits on top of the Duke of Wellington statue outside which has become a symbol of the city. If Kelvingrove Art Gallery seems a little far out of the center, there’s an underground tube system you can use or you could just enjoy taking a long, leisurely stroll through Kelvingrove Park to get there.

By Car: Drive west along Motorway 8 (M8) from Edinburgh to Glasgow.

By Train/Bus: Hop on one of the many direct and fast ScotRail trains from Edinburgh to either Glasgow Central or Glasgow Queen Street station. They are both city center train stations. Or, take a CityLink bus or Megabus service if you are on a budget.

Distance from Edinburgh: 46 miles(approx 1 hour)

3. Glen Coe and The Scottish Highlands

Taking a day trip from Edinburgh to Highlands might seem a little far to go on a one-day tour, but if you cannot explore Scotland without including the Scottish Highlands on your itinerary! If you’re short on time, Scottish Highlands tours from Edinburgh are the perfect compromise.

There are many places to visit in the Scottish Highlands, but you should take a guided tour of Fort William. This is a mountain town at the base of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Scotland. During your journey to Fort William from Edinburgh, you’ll pass through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park as well as the dramatic Glen Coe which is the jewel in the crown of the Scottish Highlands.

Fort William has lots of small hikes (Cow Hill is a great one) if you don’t have enough time to tackle Ben Nevis. If you like craft beer, check out the Black Isle Brewery Bar here.

By Car: Drive northwest along Motorway 9 (M9) until you get to Stirling. Then, take the A84 and the A85 through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park before taking the A82 to Glen Coe and beyond.

By Tour: There are lots of Edinburgh day tours to Glen Coe and surrounding areas. Just some of the tour operators that run these tours are Rabbie’s Tours and Highland Experience.

Distance from Edinburgh: 119 miles (approx 3 hours)

4. Rosslyn Chapel

Looking for Edinburgh day trips that are super close to the city? Visit Rosslyn Chapel, one of the most popular attractions in Midlothian. It’s a great wee (Scottish for little!) trip for Knights Templar history buffs and fans of The Da Vinci Code book and movie.

Yes, Rosslyn Chapel was an important filming location for The Da Vinci Code . But it’s not only its use as a filming location that attracts so many visitors.

Rosslyn Chapel is a 15th-century church that has links to the Knights Templar and also boasts skillful masonry with its ornate columns. There are plenty of secrets hidden within the designs of Rosslyn Chapel which you can find out more about on hourly tours.

When you visit Rosslyn Chapel you are not just seeing a nice church as it’s also located in a picturesque rural part of the county next to the quiet town of Roslin. Check out Roslin Glen Country Park for easy hikes. You can also book day tours from Edinburgh to Rosslyn Chapel if you’d prefer to take an organized trip.

By Car: Drive south from Edinburgh along the A701 road to Roslin where directions to the chapel are well-signposted.

By Bus: Edinburgh’s local bus company, Lothian Buses, have a direct service (N 37) from South Bridge to Roslin that departs every 30 minutes. There are other services with connections but this is the easiest and quickest option.

Distance from Edinburgh: 7.5 miles (approx 20 minutes)

5. Outlander Filming Sites

Admit it, the spark that fed the flames of your desire to explore Scotland was from watching the hit TV Outlander , right? Don’t worry! You’re far from alone which is why there are so many tours from Edinburgh, Scotland to places that appeared as filming locations in the series.

Some of the historic villages and locations you can visit on a guided tour are the small village of Culross (Cranesmuir), the historic town of Falkland (1940s Inverness), and historic buildings like Blackness Castle (Fort William) and Linlithgow Palace (Wentworth Prison). Linlithgow is a Royal Palace where Mary, Queen of Scots was born so it’s a fantastic place to visit on a day tour for history buffs too.

Let’s not forget Midhope Castle either, the charming estate that stands in for Lallybroch!

By Car: Drive to Midhope Castle, then Blackness Castle, then Linlithgow Palace, then Culross, then Falkland before driving across the Forth Road Bridge back to Edinburgh in a loop. If you want to visit Doune Castle too, you can drive there in between Linlithgow and Culross.

Visiting these places, without Doune Castle, is an approximate 113-mile trip which will take around 3 hours in total to drive.

By Tour: Considering the popularity of the show, lots of tour companies offer Outlander day tours from Edinburgh. Rabbie’s Tours, Timberbush Tours, and Haggis Adventures are just some of your options.

6. North Berwick

One of the best day trips from Edinburgh by train is to North Berwick, a charming town in East Lothian by the sea.

North Berwick is home to the Scottish Seabird Centre and Bass Rock which is an important breeding island off the coast with a lighthouse and castle. If you love animals and bird spotting then taking a boat trip out to this island is a can’t-miss. Be warned that the smell of the smell can be pretty overwhelming! Bass Rock is white for a reason.

Other popular attractions to see in North Berwick on a day tour include the ruined 14th-century Tantallon Castle, climbing The Law Hill with panoramic views across the coast, and strolling along Milsey Bay Beach. Bostock Bakery is a great place to visit in North Berwick for delicious, homemade pastries. You won’t regret ordering their banana nut muffin.

By Car: Drive south along the main A1 road towards England before turning left onto a local road to North Berwick.

By Train/Bus: ScotRail trains depart from Edinburgh to North Berwick around every 30 minutes. Or, you can take a local X5 bus service to North Berwick and buy tickets from the driver.

Distance from Edinburgh: 28 miles (approx 1 hour)

7. Stirling Castle and Falkirk

While Edinburgh Castle is one of the most popular and visited historical sites in the country, Stirling Castle is also an important monument in Scottish history. This 12th-century former palace has lots of links to William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, and the ongoing fight for Scottish independence.

The position of Stirling Castle between the Highlands and the Lowlands meant the Scots fought many of their most important battles here. You can also see across the city to the Wallace Monument from the top of Stirling Castle too. If you’re driving, you can easily tag on a trip to Wallace Monument from Stirling Castle which history buffs (and Braveheart fans) will enjoy visiting.

One of the most popular attractions in this area is Falkirk or, more specifically, The Kelpies which are just outside of the city. These are 100 ft/30 meter-tall steel mythical horses that are fun to visit to break up long Edinburgh day trips.

By Car: Head north along Motorway 90 (M90) and then Motorway 9 (M9) where you can easily turn off to explore Falkirk or The Kelpies near Falkirk. Continue along the M9 to Stirling and Stirling Castle.

By Train: The Kelpies at Falkirk are right off the motorway, so it’s better to travel by car if you want to see those. Falkirk and Stirling both have train stations on the same ScotRail train line from Edinburgh, so it’s easy to explore one or both on the same day.

Distance from Edinburgh: 40 miles (approx 1.25 hours)

8. St. Andrews

Famous for being the place where Prince William met his future wife and the birthplace of modern golf courses, St. Andrews is one of the most popular of all the Edinburgh day trips. It’s a beautiful town with lots of historic buildings, cute cafes, independent stores, and lots of other things to do.

One of the most popular attractions in St. Andrews is the Old Course, one of the oldest golf courses in the world if not the oldest. If you love playing golf then hire a set of clubs and practice your swing! Some other historical sites include St. Andrews Castle and St. Andrews Cathedral. St. Andrews Castle offers beautiful views across the sea.

By Car: Head north along Motorway M90 (M90) across the Forth Road Bridge and then the A92 from Edinburgh to St. Andrews.

By Bus: There isn’t a train station in St. Andrews, so the easiest and most direct type of public transport to take from Edinburgh to St. Andrews is a bus. You can take the X59 direct service from Edinburgh and it’s surprisingly cheap.

If you’d really prefer to take the train, there are ScotRail and LNER services from Edinburgh to Leuchars where you can take the N 42, 97, or 99 services to St. Andrews.

Distance from Edinburgh: 53 miles (approx 1.5 hours)

9. St. Abbs and Berwick-Upon-Tweed

It’s very possible to take a day tour to England from Edinburgh, especially if you visit the coastal town of Berwick-Upon-Tweed. This town is so close to the border, it’s changed hands between the Scottish and English multiple times over the centuries. Don’t miss the historical attractions of the Old Bridge and Berwick Town Walls.

If you’re driving to Berwick-Upon-Tweed, take a short detour to the small village of St Abbs en route in East Lothian. Not only is it one of the most picturesque fishing villages in Scotland, but it also appeared as New Asgaard in the Marvel movies.

By Car: You can drive south along the A1 straight from Edinburgh to Berwick-Upon-Tweed. St Abbs is a short detour left down a narrow country road.

By Train/Bus: Visiting At Abbs as well as Berwick-Upon-Tweed via public transport on day trips is tricky but doable. Many fast train services (LNER, Transpennine, and Cross Country) pass through Berwick-Upon-Tweed between Edinburgh and London so there are plenty of direct services.

To also visit St Abbs, take the 253 bus service from Berwick-Upon-Tweed. This service only leaves once every two hours, however, so you might need to skip it if it doesn’t fit your itinerary.

Distance from Edinburgh: 56 miles (approx 1.25 hours)

10. Hadrian’s Wall

For history buffs, there’s nothing much more exciting than visiting Roman ruins. The Emporer Hadrian built an 84-mile, coast-to-coast wall in 122 AD to protect Britannia from the ‘savages’ in Caledonia. Though less than 10% of the wall still exists, you can still visit many historical attractions along the wall like forts and turrets.

When taking a day tour from Edinburgh to Hadrian’s Wall, some of the closest attractions include Chesters Roman Fort, Housesteads Roman Fort, and Sycamore Gap.

By Car: Drive south from Edinburgh along the A68 main road before turning right onto the Military Road. Chester’s Roman Fort is the first fort on Hadrian’s Wall you’ll reach, then Housesteads, and then Sycamore Gap.

Though there are some public transport options to explore parts of Hadrian’s Wall on Edinburgh day trips, it would involve taking at least two trains and a bus. There are so many easier day tours from Edinburgh via public transport you can take instead.

Distance from Edinburgh: 100 miles (approx 2.5 hours)

11. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

There are two national parks in Scotland: Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and the Cairngorms National Park. The first national park is a little north of Glasgow, so it’s close and easy to take tours from Edinburgh to this park.

Loch Lomond is the largest loch in Scotland by surface area (Loch Ness is the largest by volume) and it’s surrounded by beautiful hills, mountain towns, and hikes. Thousands of people hike the West Highland Way trail from Milngavie to Fort William, which runs alongside Loch Lomond, every year.

While in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, you could hop on one of the many loch cruises that depart from Balloch. Or, hike up Conic Hill which will reward you with stunning views across Loch Lomond on a clear day.

By Car: Drive northwest from Edinburgh along Motorway 90 (M90), then the M9 before heading west along the main A811 road all the way to Balloch.

By Train: There aren’t any direct train services between Edinburgh and Balloch, but it’s still a straightforward journey as you can change trains at Glasgow Queen Street Station.

Distance from Edinburgh: 66 miles (approx 1.5 hours)

12. Queensferry

Arguably the quickest day tour you can take from Edinburgh is to Queensferry. North and South Queensferry are two former fishing villages that bookend the Forth Bridge across the Firth of Forth. This brick-red Victorian bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and absolutely magnificent to see in person.

Walk along the high street in South Queensferry and stop off at The Ferry Tap, a quaint traditional pub, or The Little Parlour for some delicious ice cream. Take a boat trip to appreciate the Forth Bridge from different angles and learn more about the construction.

By Car: Head north of Edinburgh along Queensferry Road, then the A90 main road, and then B924.

By Train/Bus: Lothian buses, Edinburgh’s city bus network, depart from Edinburgh to Queensferry every 40 minutes. Take the N 43 bus from St Andrew’s House bus stop near Calton Hill.

Distance from Edinburgh: 11 miles (approx 30 minutes)

13. Scottish Borders

Outside of the national parks, taking a day tour of the Scottish Borders will allow you to see more of rural Scotland outside of the Scottish Highlands. Some beautiful towns to visit in the Scottish Borders include Melrose, Dryburgh, and Jedburgh.

All three of these villages have centuries-old abbeys that will fascinate history buffs as well as traditional Scottish pubs and old-world cobblestone lanes. The famous Scottish author Sir Walter Scott loved the Scottish borders so much, there is a viewpoint named after him and he is buried in Dryburgh Abbey.

By Car: Drive south along the A68 main road to Lauder before turning right onto the A6091 from Edinburgh to Melrose. Visit Sir Walter Scott View, then Dryburgh, and finally Jedburgh before following the A68 road back up north.

By Train/Bus: Take a ScotRail service to Galashiels which is a gateway town to the Scottish Borders. From there, you can take local Border buses to Melrose, Jedburgh, and Dryburgh.

Distance from Edinburgh: 37.5 miles (approx 1 hour)

Now, I’m partial to Dundee. This is where I lived with my grandma as a little girl. One of the most underrated cities in Scotland, Dundee is experiencing something of a revival after the demise of its shipbuilding industry. It’s a thriving university town with more things to do and places to visit than you might think.

The only Victoria & Albert Museum outside of London opened in Dundee in 2018 and is packed with local and national exhibits that will fascinate history buffs. Right next to the V&A Museum is the Discovery Point and RRS Discovery exhibit. This ship transported explorers, Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott, on an Antarctic expedition way back in 1901. It’s a great place to take your kids.

By Car: Drive north along Motorway 90 (M90) before taking the A92 the rest of the way from Edinburgh to Dundee.

By Train: ScotRail train services depart from Edinburgh to Dundee every 30 minutes. If you’re traveling on a budget, you can take these Edinburgh day trips to Dundee via a Megabus service which departs every 90 minutes.

Distance from Edinburgh: 60 miles (approx 1.25 hours)

15. Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park isn’t just Scotland’s largest national park, but it’s also the home of Balmoral Castle. This was formerly the Queen’s private residence (now the King’s!) and was rumored to be her favorite estate.

Although this is one of the few incredible historical buildings in Scotland you can’t visit, luckily there is plenty more to explore in Scotland’s largest national park. From the main town of Aviemore, you can take hikes or even go skiing during the winter months. Some of the most popular circular trails are Loch an Eilein and Carrbridge and Docharn.

If you’re lucky, you might spot some of Scotland’s rarest and most endangered species like the Scottish wildcat, red squirrel, or golden eagle. Failing that, you’ll see miles and miles of heather-laded hills in summer which should make up for the lack of sightings!

By Car: Drive north along Motorway 90 (M90) towards Perth before taking the A9 main road the rest of the way to Aviemore from Edinburgh.

By Bus: There are no trains that will take you all the way from Edinburgh to Aviemore, but there are plenty of direct Megabus services.

Distance from Edinburgh: 128 miles (approx 3 hours)

16. Doune Castle

You’ve no doubt seen Doune Castle before without knowing it as this castle is one of the most prolific filming locations in Scotland. It’s appeared as a filming location in Monty Python and the Holy Grail , the TV show Outlander , and even in the pilot episode of Game of Thrones.

Aside from its appearance on screen in Holy Grail and the others, Doune Castle is also one of the most important historic buildings in Scottish history. Built during the 14th century, this castle was a royal retreat and hunting lodge for tons of Scottish monarchs including Mary, Queen of Scots.

The village of Doune also has lots of great antique shops and isn’t far from Deanston Distillery where you can sample some great Scottish whisky.

By Car: Drive north along Motorway 9 (M9) before turning left onto the B824 main road from Edinburgh to Doune. The castle is just outside of the town near the River Teith and is well signposted.

By Train/Bus: Hop on one of the main direct ScotRail services to Stirling from Edinburgh. Then, take the N 59 bus from the bus stop outside Stirling Station to Doune.

Distance from Edinburgh: 44 miles (approx 1 hour)

17. The Fife Coast

Just north of Edinburgh is the historic county of Fife which is known for its adorable fishing villages and first-rate seafood and fish and chip shops. Though it’s not on the coast, you should include the new city of Dunfermline in your Fife Coast day tour itinerary. It’s an up-and-coming town and also where you’ll find the ruins of a Royal Palace and the burial place of Robert the Bruce in Dunfermline Abbey.

Other places to visit include the coastal town of Burntisland and Anstruther. Burntisland has a beautiful old harbor and lighthouse, while the Anstruther Fish Bar is legendary amongst locals.

By Car: Drive north across the Forth Road Bridge along Motorway 90 (M90) to Dunfermline. Your GPS will want you to drive a different route, but take the scenic A921 main road along the coast to Burntisland and Anstruther. Stop at any of the historic villages or towns en route that looks pretty!

By Train/Bus: There are plenty of ScotRail train services to Dunfermline or Burntisland from Edinburgh. You can also reach Anstruther by taking the X60 service from Princes Street in Edinburgh to Leven Bus Station and taking the connecting service (N 95) to Anstruther.

Distance from Edinburgh: 50 miles (approx 1.5 hours)

18. Harry Potter Bridge and Steam Train

Are you a fan of the Harry Potter movies? Whilst you can take a guided tour around Edinburgh of several places that inspired the Harry Potter books, you’ll have to venture further afield to visit filming locations. Luckily, there are plenty of Harry Potter Scotland tours from Edinburgh that you can take.

Most tours include a visit to Fort William where you can hop on the Jacobite Steam Train over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The steam train is a dead ringer for the Hogwarts Express and Glenfinnan Viaduct is the bridge that appeared in no less than three Harry Potter movies, most notably in Chamber of Secrets.

If you’re into Harry Potter, be sure to read my guide to Harry Potter London !

By Car: Drive north along Motorway 90 (M90) to Perth and then take the A9 main road along the border of the Cairngorms National Park. Then, head west on the A86 main road to Fort William from Edinburgh.

By Train/Bus: You can take the 900 Megabus service to Glasgow and change to the 916 CityLink service straight to Fort William. There are ScotRail train services to Fort William from Edinburgh that change at Glasgow Queen Street but these are far less frequent.

By Tour: Edinburgh day tours to the Harry Potter Bridge are, by far, the best option. You don’t have to worry about missing the train or booking any tickets yourself! Plus, it’s quite a long distance to cover and could be very tiring.

Haggis Adventures and Highland Explorer Tours from Edinburgh are both great options.

Distance from Edinburgh: 147 miles (approx 3.25 hours)

19. Alnwick Castle

Speaking of Harry Potter, how would you like to take a short trip across the English border and see a movie location?! Alnwick Castle is located in Northeast England and appeared as Hogwarts in Sorcerer’s/Philosopher’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets . If you’re also a fan of Downton Abbey , Alnwick Castle appears in the 2014 Christmas special.

While at Alnwick Castle, you can take Quidditch lessons (the muggle equivalent of Quidditch) and visit the poison garden in Alnwick Park. Alnwick is a charming town with a huge second-hand bookshop called Barter Books and lots of antique stores.

By Car: Drive along the main A1 road from Edinburgh before turning right just before you hit the village on the B634 road. Easy peasy!

By Train: Take an LNER or Cross Country train service from Edinburgh to Alnmouth which is very close to Alnwick. Then, hop on an X18 bus from the Curly Lane bus stop to Alnwick Bus Station.

Distance from Edinburgh: 86.5 miles (approx 2 hours)

20. Whisky Distillery Tours

Scotland has so many world-class Scottish whisky distilleries. Plus, most of them are in rural locations outside of the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. The best way to visit a few different distilleries in one day is to take a whisky tour.

Some of the best distilleries near Edinburgh that you could include in your whiskey tour are Kingsbarns Distillery, Glenkinchie Distillery, Deanston Distillery (near Doune), Glenturret Distillery, Tullibardine Distillery, and Holyrood Distillery.

I don’t personally drink, but if you do, whisky is a quintessentially Scottish experience.

Unless one person in your travel group is happy to be a designated driver, these types of Scotland day trips from Edinburgh are much better on a tour! Then everyone gets to sample as much whisky as they (responsibly) can.

Rabbie’s Tours and Absolute Escapes both run whisky tours from Edinburgh to distilleries like Deanston Distillery and Glengoyne Distillery.

Taking day trips from Edinburgh and getting around via public transport in Scotland is a lot easier if you have a contactless credit card. You buy local city bus tickets (for example, in the Scottish Borders or from Edinburgh to Roslin) from the driver as you board with a tap of your card. They often don’t give change so it’s much preferable to paying with cash.

You should buy train tickets and intercity bus tickets (for example, CityLink and Megabus services) in advance. There are lots of ticket machines at Edinburgh Waverley Station (Edinburgh’s main train station) and Edinburgh Buchanan Bus Station (Edinburgh’s main bus station).

Trainline is the best app for train travel in the UK. You can buy electronic tickets and follow your route via this app. Intercity bus tickets are available from the bus company’s website.

Day Trips From Edinburgh FAQs

Absolutely! Glasgow is one of the best day trips from Edinburgh for several reasons.

First, Glasgow is super close to Edinburgh and is between a 30 to 40-minute train or car ride away. Second, it’s the antithesis of Edinburgh’s old world and medieval charm. Glasgow is much more cosmopolitan with more live music venues, bars, shopping, and entertainment options.

Unfortunately, taking a day trip from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye isn’t feasible. It’s a 227-mile/365 km drive which means it’s a 10-hour round trip.

However, if you have the time then there are plenty of amazing multi-day tours from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye. That will allow you to take more hikes like the Quiraing Circuit, and the Old Man of Storr, and visit distilleries like Talisker.

Whether you’re seeking mythical creatures at Loch Ness, great cocktail bars in Glasgow, or history at Doune or Blackness Castle, this guide to day trips from the Scottish capital has you covered.

These are the best day trips from Edinburgh, Scotland no matter your interests, how close you want to stay to the city, or whether you want to drive or take a train. Your Scottish vacation will be all the richer for discovering what else this magical country has to offer beyond Edinburgh’s borders.

Wanderlust Crew

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The 8 best day trips from Edinburgh

Looking for a rural escape from the city? Here are some of the best day trips from Edinburgh

Photograph: Hamish Irvine

Edinburgh is a top tier city if you ask us, but it can feel a little much in its most tourist-filled months. Thankfully, the Scottish Capital is surrounded by great little spots to escape the city’s frantic bustle, and plenty of them are reachable by a short car or train journey. 

From coastal towns and lovely beach walks to mountainous landscapes and rigorous hiking routes, there’s plenty outside the city that awaits you. Our top tip? Head out early, stop for lunch, and be back in Edinburgh in time for a slap-up dinner and pub trip in the evening – sounds pretty idyllic, right? So, without further ado, here are the best day trips from Edinburgh.

RECOMMENDED: 🌤️The best things to do in Edinburgh   🎨 The best art galleries in Edinburgh 🏰The best attractions in Edinburgh 🏘️The best Airbnbs in Edinburgh

This guide was updated by Edinburgh-based Arusa Querishi . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .  

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips and places to visit near Edinburgh

1.  the east lothian beaches.

How to get there:  The first bus from the centre to Aberlady takes just under an hour.

Edinburgh itself has a beach at Portobello, a suburb with a jolly seaside-resort feel. Beyond the city, however, there are more expansive and equally attractive beaches to be found in East Lothian.

A few minutes’ walk east of the village, along the A198, you’ll find Aberlady Local Nature Reserve, a haven for birds big and small. Follow the path round to the sands on the north side of Aberlady Bay and there’s beach and headland all the way to Gullane (approximately 5km). This village has a beautiful sweeping beach, some decent places to eat and drink, and a regular bus service to take you back to central Edinburgh. 

2.  Cairngorms National Park

How to get there: it's about two-hour drive from Edinburgh to Cairngorms, about three hours by train or three and a half by bus. 

As the largest national park in the British Isles, there's naturally huge amounts to explore within the Cairngorms. But with such a variety of options for activities in the area, choosing one or more highlights can make for the perfect day trip.

Whether you're into skiing, birdwatching, fishing or hiking, you can do it all within this stunning mountain range. But for a more chilled out activity, there are numerous castles and historical sites to check out too, including Balmoral Castle (the Queen's private residence), Braemar Castle and the Highland Folk Museum. And then there's the Dalwhinnie Distillery, currently the highest distillery in the country, where you can get a tour or a masterclass if you so desire.

If you're heading up there with the family, the Aviemore Zip Trek Park, the Landmark Forrest Park and Highland Wildlife Park are just some ways to keep everyone entertained. The drive-through reserve at the Highland Wildlife Park is particularly wonderful for spotting animals like bison, red deer, elk and vicuna.

3.  The Kelpies

How to get there: From Edinburgh, take a SCOTRAIL train to Falkirk Grahamston station and then hop on the number 2 bus from Weir Street to Grangemouth station. 

If you’re visiting the nearby Falkirk Wheel, you’d do well to stop by at at Helix Park, home to the Kelpies, two monumental sculptures of mythical water horses , each nearly 100ft high. Legend has it kelpies had the strength of 10 horses and could shape-shift into human form – just as the landscapes in these parts have metamorphosed drastically over millennia. They’re made of steel in a nod to both contemporary sculptural trends and traditional artisan techniques. Enormous, glittering and utterly magnificent, the dual artworks have been open to the public since spring 2014, alongside a visitor centre where you can get guided Kelpie tours and explore exhibits relating to their history.

4.  Loch Ness

How to get there: there are tour companies which offer day trips to Loch Ness from Edinburgh, as the one-way journey takes nearly four hours. 

It takes less time than you’d think to get up to the Highlands, so a day trip to Loch Ness is completely doable. You’ll probably know it as home to Nessie, a cryptozoological sea creature whose sightings began in 595 and have continued ever since. There’s more to an excursion to Loch Lomond than monster-spotting, however. Lots of touring companies in Edinburgh will take you there (check out The Hairy Coo, Timberbush Tours or Rabbies). Some pass by Stirling Castle before stopping at Kilmahog – frequented by fairies, we’re told – while others go via Glencoe. Once at Loch Ness, you can cruise its waters, explore nearby Urquhart Castle and take part in whisky tastings. The whole trip will take up a full day (with an early rise), so it’s not for the faint-hearted. And remember to bring layers – this is Scotland, after all.

5.  Linlithgow

How to get there:   ScotRail trains from Edinburgh Waverley to Linlithgow take around 20 minutes.

The main reason tourists flock to Linlithgow is to see the striking ruins of its royal castle. The birthplace of both James V and his daughter Mary, Queen of Scots, Linlithgow Palace echoes with the history of the Stuart dynasty that ruled Scotland from 1371. 

Perched on the shore of the town’s small loch, right next to St Michael’s Church with its distinctive modern steeple, you couldn’t deny it’s in a prime location. There’s been some form of royal palace here since the 12th century, although the current structure was built in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its heyday as the Stuarts’ primary residence came to an end when James VI became king of Great Britain in 1603 and relocated to London with his court. The building fell into disrepair over the next hundred years; a fire finally put the old place out of its misery in 1746.

Atmospheric and resonant, it’s now cared for by Historic Scotland and, if you catch it on a fine day, its red sandstone comes alive in the sunlight. The High Street is where to find cafés and restaurants, while the town also sits on the Union Canal, perfect for a bucolic saunter. 

6.  North Berwick

How to get there:  trains take less than 35 minutes from Edinburgh Waverley

A small and attractive seaside town, North Berwick has beaches stretching east and west from its harbour, a decent selection of bars and restaurants, small islands immediately offshore and the imposing presence of the Bass Rock, with its gannet colony, around 5km out into the Forth. Standing sentinel over it all is the 187-metre bulk of North Berwick Law directly behind the town, an ancient volcanic plug which affords brilliant views if you make the effort to reach the top.

Nearby you’ll find the Scottish Seabird Centre, which is great for children and birdwatching enthusiasts, and there are also scenic seasonal boat trips, some going all the way to the Isle of May – the last stop before Scandinavia. Put all that together and you have a well-rounded day trip in store. 

7.  The Pentlands

How to get there: It's about an hour drive from Edinburgh, but you can also hop on the 101 bus. 

It may be a bit cheeky to describe this range of hills as outside Edinburgh, given a chunk of it sits well within the city boundary. All the same, the Pentlands stretch over 30km away to the South West of the capital with a number of peaks over 500 metres – the area was designated the Pentlands Regional Park back in 1984.

Among the hills, you’ll find an artificial ski slope at Hillend (the Midlothian Snowsports Centre), farms, lochs, a military training zone that has live firing exercises and no end of trails to follow. The gentle way to experience the Pentlands is to drive or catch a First bus from the city centre to Flotterstone, walk 1.5km up the minor road to the picturesque Glencorse Reservoir, take in the view, then walk back the way you came, stopping for a drink and some pub grub at the Flotterstone Inn before heading back to the city. The more adventurous might also want to start at Flotterstone but instead embark on a circular walk of 18km taking in some of the hills, including Scald Law, the Pentlands’ highest peak at 579 metres. 

8.  Roslin

How to get there: I t’s just off the A701 and takes about 30 minutes. Lothian Buses number 37 to Penicuik/Deanburn takes around 45 minutes to an hour, and a number of tour companies organise day trips.

Roslin’s biggest draw has to be the ancient Rosslyn Chapel, built by William Sinclair, 1st Earl of Caithness in the mid-15th century. If the name ‘Rosslyn’ rings a bell, you might have read Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, in which the chapel is namechecked due to its supposed connections with the Knights Templar, Freemasons and the Holy Grail.

Just outside of the village, the chapel is nestled among woodland and rolling fields. Inside, you’ll find an intriguing space whose central feature is the Apprentice Pillar – myth has it a jealous stonemason killed his apprentice due to his ability to complete such an intricate carving. There are also elaborate carvings of green men, plants and fruit, as well as a slightly spooky crypt that some believe contains the actual mummified head of Jesus Christ. Elsewhere in Roslin, you can explore the ruins of its 14th-century castle and picnic on its lush green glen. 

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16 Top-Rated Day Trips from Edinburgh

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Nov 26, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

As hard as it might be to pull yourself away from the many rewarding things to do in Edinburgh, the area around this stunningly attractive city is equally worth your time exploring.

This region of "Bonnie Scotland" contains no end of wonderful attractions and historic places to visit. A drive in almost any direction will unveil dramatic coastlines, magnificent mountains, and countless incredible historic sites. Castles, grand homes, and abbeys make up the bulk of the tourist attractions in the area, and all are waiting to be explored.

Be sure to plan your adventures with this list of the best day trips from Edinburgh, Scotland.

1. Stirling Castle

2. loch lomond and the west highlands castles, 3. loch ness and the scottish highlands, 4. outlander film locations day trip, 5. linlithgow palace, 6. st. andrews and fife, 7. national mining museum scotland, 8. melrose abbey and rosslyn chapel, 9. holy island and alnwick castle, 10. crichton castle, 11. dalmeny house and hopetoun house, 12. sir walter scott's abbotsford house, 13. jedburgh abbey, 14. kelso and floors castle, 15. national museum of flight, 16. thirlestane castle, map of day trips from edinburgh.

About 45 minutes from Edinburgh by direct train, the town of Stirling is a popular destination for tourists for its spectacular 12th-century castle. Beautiful Stirling Castle stands high above the town at the top of a 76-meter volcanic crag, and has played an important role in Scotland's history.

Highlights of a visit include the Great Hall, built for James IV in 1503 and an impressive and well-preserved medieval structure. Be sure to also allow time to explore the lovely Queen Anne Gardens adjacent to the castle.

Stirling is also the site of two major Scottish victories over the English. The first was in 1314 when Robert the Bruce defeated them at the Battle of Bannockburn . It was also here that William Wallace defeated the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Both battles are explored at the Bannockburn Heritage Centre , and Wallace is commemorated by the impressive Wallace Monument just outside of town on the road to the attractive small Scottish town of Bridge of Allan.

Looking to strike off a few Scottish points of interest from your travel itinerary? You can easily visit the castle and enjoy a guided nature walk in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park on the full-day Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh . This excellent eight-hour tour also takes in the famous Kelpies monument near Falkirk.

Address: Castle Wynd, Stirling, Scotland

Official site: www.stirlingcastle.scot

Legendary Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest freshwater loch, is situated at the southern end of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park . This beautiful loch is a center for boating and other water sports, and the gateway to the beautiful West Highlands.

Here, among the hills and rugged Breadalbane Mountains, you'll find a number of historic castles, including Inveraray Castle . The seat of the Dukes of Argyll, Inveraray was built in the mid-18th century on the foundations of a medieval fortress.

Movie buffs may recognize Doune Castle as the filming location for Monty Python and The Holy Grail. You can see these and the romantic ruins of Kilchurn Castle , along with Loch Lomond, Loch Awe, and several others on the West Highland Lochs and Castles Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh .

As you travel by luxury coach, your guide will relate the history and legends of the area, along with details about the castles and the families that have lived in them. This 10-hour adventure also includes many great Scottish photo opportunities along the way, so bring a selfie stick.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do around Loch Lomond

By far the best-known of Scotland's fabled lochs is Loch Ness, reputed home of the sea serpent, Nessie. Filling the deep geological fissure known as the Great Glen, Loch Ness is 37 kilometers long (with a depth of 227 meters), with mountains rising steeply from its banks.

It's undoubtedly one of the loveliest places to visit in all of Scotland, and hour-long boat trips from Fort Augustus and Inverness reveal magnificent views of the Scottish Highlands' rocky peaks. They also provide great views of the romantic ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Tours to Great Glen, such as the 12-hour Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh , stop in atmospheric Glencoe , scene of the massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. The tour promises a day of exceptional scenery through the Highlands, a region of high mountains and rock-strewn ridges. There's also ample time to explore Cairngorms National Park, too.

• Read More: Visiting Loch Ness: Top Attractions & Tours

A popular organized tour for day-trippers and TV-viewers alike, the Outlander film locations day trip is a great option for Edinburgh-based tourists. Departing Highland Explorer Tours' central Edinburgh office at 8:45am, your adventure takes in some of the area's most spectacular scenery, as well as top places to visit that starred in the hit TV show.

Along the way, a professional guide shares not just the real history of these locations, but anecdotes about the fictional locations they represent. They also share stories about the show's imaginary characters.

Tourist attractions you'll see along the way include Doune Castle , a well-preserved medieval fortress that stood in for Castle Leoch. Also included are the quaint village of Culross, called Cranesmuir in the series, and the town of Falkirk, which was used to film the wartime scenes of Inverness.

Other highlights include visits to Linlithgow Palace, Aberdour, and Midhope Castle. A souvenir map and free Wi-Fi on the coach are included.

Set in an attractive lakeside location, Linlithgow Palace – a star of the hit Outlander TV series – is famous as the birthplace of Mary Stuart in 1542. The gatehouse on the east front still bears the royal coat-of-arms.

The long Great Hall gives some idea of the palace's splendor, and guides can point out the location of the room, far above, where the future queen was born. You can also walk the castle's ramparts and explore its towers.

Make sure you allow time to explore the pleasant little village of Linlithgow. Here, you'll find historic St. Michael's Church and some lovely 16th-century houses. Nearby Cairnpapple Hill is a prehistoric site dating to 3000 BC.

A still-inhabited country house between Linlithgow and Queensferry, the House of Binns is of particular interest for its stone chimneys and mid-17th-century stucco ceilings in the High Hall. In the King's Room, tourists can see the heraldic emblems of England and Scotland joined in the decor.

Address: Kirkgate, Linlithgow, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/linlithgow-palace/

Although the name St. Andrews is hallowed to golfers, you don't have to play golf to appreciate this old university town in Fife, a scenic 90-minute drive north of Edinburgh.

Along with several courses and the British Golf Museum, there are the haunting ruins of the 12th-century cathedral and the picturesque St. Andrew's Castle on a promontory overlooking the North Sea. Parts of it date to the 13th century, when it was home to the archbishop.

On the St. Andrews and Fife Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh , you can travel here by minivan with a guide and have plenty of time to explore St. Andrews. You can also use your complimentary card for discounts at local restaurants, shops, and attractions. On the way back to Edinburgh, the tour visits the fishing villages of East Neuk and Falkland, where you'll see the imposing Falkland Palace.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in St. Andrews

The National Mining Museum Scotland is located about 16 kilometers south of Edinburgh at the Lady Victoria Colliery, one of the best preserved Victorian Collieries in Europe. Considered one of the best mines to visit in Scotland, it opened in 1894 and ceased production in 1981.

The museum traces the developments in mining the prolific Scottish coalfields over several generations. Of greatest historical interest is the Grant-Richie winding engine once used to lift coal from a depth of almost 1,640 feet. In addition to the winch, this four-acre site also includes a superbly preserved set of Lancashire Boilers and Europe's only extant timber dredger. Fun pithead tours are available.

Another interesting mining-related attraction is Prestongrange Museum a few miles west of Edinburgh. Its underground gallery offers a fascinating glimpse into the tough life of a miner. Also worth visiting is the quaint former mining village of Roslin , just five miles south of Edinburgh.

Address: Lady Victoria Colliery, Newtongrange, Dalkeith, Scotland

Official site: http://nationalminingmuseum.com

Many regard Melrose Abbey as the finest of the Borders region's four abbeys. Built from red sandstone for Cistercian monks in 1136, it was plundered and desecrated on several occasions.

What remains makes an impressive sight. Highlights include the ornate stonework and carvings of gargoyles on the capitals and sculptures, and a fountain in the form of a bagpipe-playing pig. It's said that the heart of Robert the Bruce is buried beneath the east window, and a mummified heart was in fact found in the Chapterhouse in 1920.

A day trip to Melrose Abbey is easily combined with a visit to the fascinating and enigmatic Rosslyn Chapel. This attractive location was brought to wide public attention for its role in the hit movie, The Da Vinci Code . The unusual stone carvings are the subject of a lot of speculation, and the chapel is reputed to have strong association with the Knights Templar and Freemasonry. Whatever its true history, the chapel is a beautiful place.

You can visit both the abbey and chapel, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrian's Wall , on the Rosslyn Chapel and Hadrian's Wall Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh . Built almost 2,000 years ago to defend the northern border of the Roman Empire from the warlike Picts, the wall stretches for 73 miles. The tour visits the best preserved of the wall's forts, at Housesteads Fort in Northumberland National Park, where you can walk along one of the wall's most photogenic sections.

Address: Abbey Street, Melrose, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/melrose-abbey/

Edinburgh is close enough to the English border to make a day trip along the beautiful coast of Northumberland possible. The highlight of this rugged coast is Holy island, a mystical place with a long history, reached from the mainland only at low tide across a narrow sandbar.

Sitting at the top of a steep hill is picture-perfect Lindisfarne Castle. This imposing fortress was built in the 1500s using stones from the priory that was founded here in 635 by Saint Aidan, who came from the Scottish island of Iona.

The Holy Island is not far from Alnwick Castle. Often called the "Windsor of the North" for its imposing towers and opulent interiors, it was used as a location for scenes from Downton Abbey and the Harry Potter films.

Along with the sumptuous interior, you can tour the magnificent gardens, among the finest in England. The most unusual features here are the poison garden and the beautiful cascade fountain. Be sure to check for opening times during the shoulder season, as the castle does close over the winter months.

You can visit both these places easily in one day on the Holy Island, Alnwick Castle, and Northumberland Tour from Edinburgh . This exciting day trip includes travel by coach from the city with a guide who can explain the history of both sites. The nine-hour excursion offers plenty of time to explore Lindisfarne, as well as Alnwick Castle and gardens.

Address: Alnwick, Northumberland, England

Official site: www.alnwickcastle.com

Perched atop a hill overlooking the River Tyne and just 12 miles east of Edinburgh stands Crichton Castle. Praised by Walter Scott in Marmion , the original 14th century tower house had three wings and an Italianate elegance with Florentine arcades. The castle's facade and brickwork were enhanced with diamond bosses.

Mary Stuart and Lord Darnley stayed here during their honeymoon, and their initials (MSD) can still be seen carved into a stone over the two central pillars on the east side of the courtyard. If visiting, be sure to keep an eye out for the castle's ghost.

Another nearby castle worth a visit is Lauriston Castle , located just four miles northwest of Edinburgh. Highlights of a visit to this picturesque tower house dating from the 1500s include its beautiful gardens. This is one of the top free things to do in southern Scotland. You'll find here a delightful Japanese garden, along with spectacular views over the Firth of Forth.

There are also a number of easy woodland trails to follow. It's especially fun to walk here in spring when the bluebells are in bloom. The on-site café is also worth visiting.

Address: Crichton, Pathhead, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/crichton-castle/

Just eight miles northwest of Edinburgh in Queensferry stands Dalmeny House . Set overlooking the Firth of Forth, it's famous for its Tudor Gothic style, valuable art treasures – including portraits by Reynolds, Raeburn, and Gainsborough – and French furniture from the time of Louis XV and Louis XVI.

Other highlights include rare porcelain and tapestries, as well as silk curtains embroidered by Marie Antoinette. The Napoleon Room contains paintings and personal effects belonging to the Emperor, as well as a seat used by the Duke of Wellington.

While in Dalmeny, visit St. Cuthbert's church. This impressive structure dates from the 12th century and is notable for its richly decorated south portal and some fine woodcarving. Also of interest in South Queensferry is 17th-century Hopetoun House with its many splendid rooms decorated with damask wallpaper, tapestries, delightful stucco ceilings, and fine furniture.

Address: South Queensferry, Scotland

Official site: www.dalmeny.co.uk

At the heart of "Scott's country," as the Scottish Borders south of Edinburgh are sometimes known, lies Abbotsford. Located on the banks of the Tweed, it was here Sir Walter Scott wrote the majority of his poems and historical novels, and where he died in 1832.

The royalties from his highly successful novels went towards converting the farmhouse into the present Scottish-style mansion. The house is crammed full of reminders of the best-selling writer, including manuscripts, ballads, portraits and curiosities such as Bonnie Prince Charlie's scotch glass (quaich), the sword used by outlaw Rob Roy, and Scott's death mask.

Guided tours of the home and gardens are available, while those wanting to experience a night's stay can do so in one of its luxury accommodations. There's also a great tearoom on-site that serves a lovely afternoon "high tea" experience.

Address: Abbotsford, Melrose, Roxburghshire, Scotland

Official site: www.scottsabbotsford.com

The remains of Jedburgh Abbey is perhaps the most beautiful of the four 12th-century Border abbeys destroyed by the English in 1544. The site consists of two Norman arches and the west front with its magnificent rose window (the St. Catherine's Wheel).

The arcades in the three-story main nave and the window tracery are also worth a look, while the visitor center has an exhibition explaining the day-to-day life of the monks. Guided tours are also available.

Dryburgh Abbey , just eight miles away from Jedburgh, is another of the Borders' former abbeys. Although little of it is left, you can still visit the marvelous west portal, the rose window at the west end of the refectory, the chapterhouse, and St. Modan's Chapel.

Address: Abbey Bridge End, Jedburgh, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/jedburgh-abbey

Walter Scott described Kelso as the "prettiest, if not the most romantic village in Scotland." This attractive market town 10 miles east of Melrose has a Georgian market square that's fun to explore. The five-arched bridge over the Tweed was built in 1803 and offers views of the ruined abbey.

But the most famous sightseeing landmark, however, is Floors Castle. This fairy-tale castle, topped with small towers, ornate turrets, and chimneys, was built in Georgian style in 1721 and was later extended in decorative Tudor style.

The castle's valuable collection of porcelain includes examples from Dresden and Meissen, Davenport tableware, and items dating from the Chinese Ming dynasty. It's also home to a number of important portraits by Gainsborough and Reynolds.

It's also worth having a look at the collection of Victorian coaches, prams, and bathing machines before taking a stroll through the beautiful gardens. One of the trees in the extensive parkland is said to mark the spot where James II was fatally wounded by a bullet during a siege of the castle in 1460. Afterwards, be sure to reserve a spot of tea in the tearoom (book at least 24 hours ahead of your visit).

Address: Roxburghe Estates Office, Kelso, Scotland

Official site: www.floorscastle.com/

The National Museum of Flight is housed in a former RAF airbase and includes over 30 vintage airplanes. Among them are a De Havilland Puss Moth (1930), a Weir W-2 (1934), a Supermarine Spitfire, and a Sea Hawk. Also on display is the famous Concorde jetliner, a Nimrod, and numerous displays related to flight during two world wars.

While in Linton, be sure to visit 13th-century Hailes Castle with its narrow dungeons. For some outdoor sightseeing, stop in the coastal village of Aberlady, noted for its fine sandy beaches and seabird reserve.

Address: East Fortune Airfield, North Berwick, Scotland

Official site: www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-flight

Another historic property in the Scottish Borders that's well worth a visit is Thirlestane . It's just a 20-minute drive from Sir Walter Scott's Abbotsford home, making it an ideal way to extend that particular day trip (see above).

This 13th-century border fortress was converted into a stately home and boasts splendid wooden ceilings, a collection of old toys, and the Border Country Life Exhibitions. Luxury stays are also available at this castle, and make for an idyllic Scottish countryside getaway.

Location: Lauder, Scotland

Official site: www.thirlestanecastle.co.uk

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Scotland Travel Ideas : Scotland's other big city, Glasgow , also makes a great base from which to enjoy fun day trips . Places to visit in Glasgow itself include its lovely cathedral, its historic school of art, along with its many museum and art galleries. Farther north is the attractive city of Aberdeen , known as the "Flower of Scotland" for its many gardens and parks. The cities of Ayr and Dumfries are also worth including in your Scotland itinerary and are best known for their connections to the country's most famous poet, Robbie Burns.

More on Scotland

Things to do in Scotland with kids: Best family days out in Scotland

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Days out in Scotland are back on the table for 2021, with lockdown slowly beginning to lift and the restrictions eased. 

Family days out are just one of the things that we're all looking forward to during the school summer holidays , especially as the weather warms up and brighter evenings arrive. So while there's not been much opportunity to explore castles like those in Edinburgh and Stirling or go for a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train this year just yet, they're sure to be first on the list when they're open again.

In the meantime, if you're looking for things to do with kids over the next couple of weeks that don't include Zoom games or virtual tours then be sure to check out any of these nature spots local to you.

Best family days out in Scotland:

1. loch ness cruises, inverness.

Who hasn't heard of Nessie? This is the famous Loch Ness where the legendary three-humped monster lurks beneath the surface. Keen adventurers and myth busters will love a day out around the lake and there's no better way to do it than by taking to its waters on a cruise.

Loch Ness by Jacobite offers a range of tours to go on, whether you just want to explore the lake or fit in as many other sites as possible along the way. Some of the other picturesque scenes to discover along the way include Urquhart Castle (pictured), which stands proudly on the northern shore of Loch Ness. This is certainly one of the most bracing days out on Scotland!

Under the current government restrictions, Jacobite are not currently running their tours across Loch Ness. In the meantime, check out their photo gallery for a brief insight into what's in store when they're open for business again.

Best for: Kids with wild imaginations! FIND OUT MORE ABOUT JACOBITE CRUISES 

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2. Bowhill Country Estate, Selkirk

Visit this enchanting and secluded estate, surrounded by a beautiful lake and acres of woodlands. Bowhill is one of Scotland's hidden gems and it's definitely one of the most scenic days out to be had in Scotland.

There's plenty of outdoor activities to take part in too, everything from fishing to hiking, horsehiding and even indoor estate tours (out of lockdown, of course). There's even a theatre! It's a fantastic place to go come rain or shine as there's so much for adults and kids to get stuck into.

Bowhill Country Estate is closed to visitors for the moment under the lockdown regulations. However, local residents are allowed to enjoy walks around green spaces as part of their daily exercise. The estate has asked that anyone doing this parks safely in the visitor car park.

Best for: The adventure playground... zip wire included! FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BOWHILL ESTATE

3. Almond Valley Museum, Farm and Discovery Centre, West Lothian

For anyone who loves animals of all kinds, Almond Valley's Farm is real treat of a day out. There's a petting farm filled with friendly farm animals keen to introduce themselves to visitors, along with an adventure playground, indoor soft play area and a giant pillow (yes, you heard that right!).

Fields, woods and green spaces surround the farm, stretching for almost a mile to the river Almond. Along with the Mill petting farm, the historic Livingston Mill and a number of museum displays and other activity spaces are also on site.

At the moment, the farm is closed under lockdown restrictions in Scotland. A statement on their site reads, 'Another three weeks of closure is a terrible disappointment for all, but is the most responsible course of action to best protect the health of our visitors and our staff.'

Best for: Under 10s. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ALMOND VALLEY FARM

4. Stirling Castle, Stirling

Stirling Castle is the beating heart of all things art, culture and celebrity in Scotland - or at least it was in the 16th century. It's still one of the most cultural days out in Scotland though, that's for sure! Take in the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace and visit the surrounding historic buildings, along with the breathtaking Palace gardens.

For a magical trip into the past, make sure to check out the Palace Vaults and slip into a costume to join the court jesters. Or check out the Regimental Museum, which houses exquisite artifacts from all around the world. Plus if the timing's right, you might just get a visit from some of Stirling's most famous (controversial) residents...

Following the lockdown announcement for mainland Scotland, the castle is closed for the time being. But that doesn't mean the intrigue, mystery and history stops! Check out the castle's blog for fascinating reads all about the history of the castle and its infamous residents over the years.

Best for: Dressing up in the castle's fancy dress box FIND OUT MORE ABOUT STIRLING CASTLE 

5. Dundee Science Centre, Dundee

As one of the most popular museum centres in Scotland, the Dundee Science Centre is also one of the biggest science centres in the UK. It has over 80 hands-on exhibits for an all round sensory experience that kids will love.

They can have a go at making their own fun, wacky sounds with the Music Mayhem exhibition while little ones under 5 can discover the Musical Mystery Bus, an interactive, live show that runs normally through the day.

The Dundee Science Centre is closed currently under lockdown restrictions.

Best for: Interactive experience FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE DUNDEE SCIENCE CENTRE

6. Blair Drummond Safari Park, Stirling

We bet you hadn't counted on spotting a tiger on your trip to Scotland! But at the Blair Drummon Safari Park, it's almost guaranteed that you'll come face to face with the Big 5 - along with 350 other rare and exotic animals. Their extensive collection includes zebras, lions, meerkats, elephants and giraffes, so whatever the kids' favourite animal, you're sure to find them roaming around here.

Take a boat trip around Chimp Island, enjoy the stunning sea lion show or take a ride at the fun fair and get your face painted - there's absolutely loads to do! Don't miss the 'Meet the Keeper' talks throughout the day to get even more inspired by these amazing creatures.

The park is also part of the worldwide network of zoos which care for rare species of animals as part of the Endangered Species Breeding Programme. So when you visit the park, you also know you're supporting animal conservation projects in the UK and around the world.

Much like other attractions in Scotland, Blair Drummond Safari Park is closed for now. You can still plan your visit though and check out all the animals that are getting ready to greet visitors again, once the park reopens later this year.

Best for: Value FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BLAIR DRUMMOND SAFARI PARK

7. Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic sites in Scotland. It overlooks the nation's beautiful capital, often lit up at night. Along with Stirling Castle, Edinburgh Castle is home to some of Scotland's most legendary royals who fought ancient battles. It was later used as a prison for enemies of the state, unsurprisingly, considering the mighty size of this fortress.

Download the family-friendly itinerary and let the kids navigate their way through the castle walls with a series of clues.

Edinburgh Castle is closed at the moment, but you can go on a virtual tour of the exterior and get to know the workings of the castle before your visit.

Best for: Spectacular views over the city FIND OUT MORE ABOUT EDINBURGH CASTLE

8. Deep Sea World, North Queensferry

If you're kids are fascinated with sea life and dream of deep sea diving and underwater exploring, this one must be on your list. As Scotland's National Aquarium there's plenty to see and do. Meet Stella the stingray, enjoy the beautiful range of the tropical fish and get a true ocean-floor experience in the UK's longest underwater tunnel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXqhUtsICNk&feature=emb_title

The aquarium is closed at the moment but will reopen later in the year.

Best for: Shark dives (yes, really!) FIND OUT MORE ABOUT DEEP SEA WORLD

9. The Time Capsule Water Park, Lanarkshire

If you're not sure you can quite rely on the Scottish weather, the Time Capsule is a perfect day out come rain or shine! Little (and big) ones can get caught up in the Tornado Tantrum, before riding high on the 10m Storm Chasers and experience Thunder and Lightening and take on all the twists and turns of of the Tsunami Wave Pool. Then you can cool off under the huge tipping bucket on Splashdown Island or take a gentle trip across the Riptide River.

There's also a newly refurbished ice rink and a fitness centre, so truly something for the whole family to enjoy.

The park is closed under lockdown restrictions, but they have said that re-opening dates will be published on the website soon.

Best for: Rainy days FIND OUT ABOUT THE TIME CAPSULE WATER PARK

10. The National Museum of Flight, East Lothian

If the thought of flying through the skies thrills your little ones, or even mum and dad, then you must visit this former airfield. Explore the history of aviation from the First World War to the present day, including the chance to get on board Scotland's only Concorde.

You will spend hours being entertained with interactive exhibitions, supersonic experiences, historic hangars, an assault course and acres of green grass and fresh air. Plus, under 5s can enter for free!

The museum is currently closed under lockdown restrictions, but will reopen later this year.

Best for: Aviation buffs FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF FLIGHT

11. Mabie Farm Park, Dumfries

Mabie's has something for all the family, from donkey rides, to quad bikes, to paddle boating, kids can try new adventures, and explore the Scottish countryside in this beautiful and action-packed farm. Plus, every afternoon, (with expert supervision of course) kids get the chance to feed and handle some of the animals.

They've got all the farm animals you could ever want to see including, Shetland Ponies, Belted Galloways, Welsh Cob Horses, Llamas, Alpaca, as well as Kune Kune Pigs, Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pigs, Goats, Donkeys.

Mabie Farm Park is closed at the moment, but you can still plan your visit by taking a look at all the amazing attractions they have on offer.

Best for: Variety of things to do FIND OUT MORE ABOUT MABIE FARM PARK

12. Jacobite Steam Train, Scottish Highlands

Fans of Harry Potter will go wild as they imagine they're off to Hogwarts on the Jacobite Steam Train, which passes over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, a location featured in the Harry Potter films.

Described as the greatest railway journey in the world, this 84 mile round trip takes you past a list of impressive extremes, from  the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis! Great for train enthusiasts but also a perfect exploration for the whole family.

There's also a full Cream Tea experience to be had on board (pre-book in advance), with chunky sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea and coffee.

Best for: All the family FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN

These are just some of the best days out in Scotland to check out when they open later on this year. Keep your eyes peeled and keyboards at the ready to make that booking!

Emily Stedman is the former Features Editor for GoodTo covering all things TV, entertainment, royal, lifestyle, health and wellbeing. Boasting an encyclopaedic knowledge on all things TV, celebrity and royals, career highlights include working at HELLO! Magazine and as a royal researcher to Diana biographer Andrew Morton on his book Meghan: A Hollywood Princess . In her spare time, Emily can be found eating her way around London, swimming at her local Lido or curled up on the sofa binging the next best Netflix show.

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12 Brilliant Day Trips From Glasgow For A Dreamy Escape

Walk the fells, chase waterfalls and learn about the history of Scotland — all on a day trip from Glasgow!

Glasgow is a beautiful city but sometimes it’s nice to escape the crowds of people and see the beautiful spots on Glasgow’s doorstep. You don’t have to drive for long to have a nice day out near the city and these day trips prove it.

1. Campsie Fells

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Less than a 40 minutes drive from central Glasgow, you can escape to the beautiful hills of Campsie Fells . Walk for miles amidst this picturesque landscape and see something different at every turn, including the spooky Lennox Castle Hospital , an abandoned mental hospital. Many visitors also choose to stop in at the Glengoyne Distillery and sample some delicious whisky on one of their distillery tours.

The village of Campsie Glen sits nestled between the fells and there you can visit the Shrine of Schoenstatt , which is fabled to be “a connecting point between Heaven and earth” . The village is full of old buildings and there are woodlands surrounding it that are perfect for a peaceful walk.

2. Finnech Glen

You should definitely visit Finnech Glen , also known as Devil’s Pulpit , but exercise caution when descending the slippery stairs, named Jacob’s Ladder or the Devil’s Steps . Once you reach the bottom, you can walk through a stream with an amazing ruby red base. Its colour comes from the red sandstone that has been worn away by the water to form the glen. You’ll find this breathtaking spot just 30 minutes north of Glasgow by car.

3. Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is an absolute gem . People go on their holidays here so, if you’re going for the day, there are loads of options for things to do. First things first — there’s a whisky distillery and a cheese producer here, both of which you can visit. Then you can relax on the beautiful Brodick Bay , visit the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum , or spend some time exploring Brodick Castle .

4. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

The impressive Loch Lomond runs through the beautiful Trossochs National Park , which is speckled with beautiful hills and waterfalls to explore. It would be near impossible to explore the whole area in a day but you can take a cruise boat along the loch to get a sense of the place.

There are loads of tiny islands on the loch. Visit Inchcailloch where you can sit in seclusion with the wildlife and the loch surrounding you. Inchacailloch means ‘island of the old or cowled woman’ and it’s supposedly where St. Kentigerna , an Irish missionary, lived and died.

If you’re after more of a walk , you can venture out around Loch Lomond’s shores to find Rob Roy’s Cave , and if you’re in for a bit more of a challenge, you can climb Ben Lomond and back. Ben Lomond takes between four and five hours depending on your fitness level, so it’s the perfect day trip.

5. Loup of Fintry

Loup of Fintry is a stunning waterfall , only a 45 minute drive from Glasgow. You can bring a picnic and sit on the grass, whilst listening to the roar of the water rushing over the rocks. It’s the ideal serene mini getaway we’ve all ben hoping for.

6. Stirling

Stirling Castle might just be one of the most beautiful day trips in Scotland. Perched atop a volcanic hill, just 40 minutes outside of Glasgow, there are plenty of things to see and do within the castle walls. The castle offers an opportunity to learn about the history of Scottish royalty and the military history of Scotland. The onsite Unicorn Cafe also serves refreshments. You don’t have to book in advance but if you’ve travelled from Glasgow then it’s advisable to do so. You can buy tickets in advance online and adult tickets are £16.50 .

If you’re in Falkirk then you simply have to see The Kelpies . These huge steel sculptures of two horse’s heads tower 30 metres above the ground, and they represent the murderous shape-shifting mythical creatures that would appear to humans in the shape of a horse. Once the human rode it, the victims would be then drowned by these beings. As you’re exploring this iconic monument, there’s also a gift shop and some cafes, so you can sit and relax on your day out.

What is more, make your wee day out into a fun cycling adventure to the Falkirk Wheel, which is simply fascinating. It lifts boats that sit on tons of water into the air and transports them, providing a terrific transport route to Glasgow. You can also find our guide to local cycling routes for day trips here .

8. Arrochar, Argyll and Bute

On top of making the UK’s Best Hidden Gems list last year, the quaint village of Arrochar is a place for stunning vistas, challenging walks and memorable day trips. With Ben Lomond gracing the village on the one side, and the rocky summit of The Cobbler within the Arrochar Alps on the other, Arrochar sits at the banks of the lakes making it the perfect place to relax after a long day of adventuring.

If you want to actually brave The Cobbler , the path is around 11km and should take four to six hours . Make a start on the opposite side of the road of the Succoth car park and follow the (barely marked) red way markers. The path could prove more difficult at times to less experienced hikers, and once you reached the summit (unless you’re a rock climber), come back down the same way you came up.

9. The Secret Scottish Pyramid

That’s right, Scotland has a pyramid, and it has nothing to do with Ancient Egypt. Instead, it has a regal history that dates back to Queen Victoria. The Secret Scottish Pyramid , also known as Prince Albert’s Cairn, sits in the cosy woodland of Cairngorms National Park in the North East of Scotland, not too far from the Royal Balmoral Estate . Located around a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Glasgow, the woodland walk on the Balmoral Estate offers one of the more unique day trips , with views of the Balmoral Castle and a stunning view over the national park once you reach Prince Albert’s Cairn. As usual for Scottish terrain, bring your hiking boots as there might be muddy patches along the way.

10. Dunkeld

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Located around an hour and 15 minutes from Glasgow, Dunkeld was also named the best place to live in Scotland by The Sunday Times in 2023, so it’s not just one of the best day trips . Dunkeld is located in Perthshire , around one hour and 15 minutes drive from Glasgow. The village is a favourite for pretty village enthusiasts and boasts refreshing nature walks , calming scenery and a charismatic, friendly aura within the village. There are plenty of local businesses to check out, such as The Great British Bake-Off star Flora Shedden’s Aran Bakery , The Taybank and The Birnam Arts Institute .

11. The Japanese Garden at Cowden

What if we told you you could travel to the Far East by just driving an hour from the city? Well, when it comes to day trips near Glasgow , feeling like you left the country without going far offers a special allure. The Japanese Garden at Cowden is also named “Sha Raku En”, meaning “a place of pleasure and delight”, and is located just 50 minutes from Glasgow. Founded by Ella Christie , the spot aims to merge the two cultures, bringing a welcome union of Japanese and Scottish flairs. While guests have to pay £8.50 to get into the garden, there is also a tearoom to unwind and enjoy the day.

12. North Berwick

North Berwick is a quaint little seaside town on the East Coast two hours from Glasgow, centring around two beaches . Its picturesque location offers plenty of walking opportunities, as well as independent businesses and cute wee pubs worthy of checking out. What is more, North Berwick was named the best place to live in the UK by The Sunday Times in 2024, recognising its appeal and quality of life.

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6 Great Day Trips From Edinburgh

There's so much to see and do in Scotland's capital, but if you’re looking to escape the city and get off the beaten track, then there are plenty of day trips from Edinburgh. From breathing in the fresh sea breeze in East Lothian to visiting the historic towns of the Scottish Borders, we’ve rounded up a few great day trips from Edinburgh that you can access easily by public transport.  

North Berwick East Lothian

Time from Edinburgh: 30-minute train, 50-minute drive

For those seeking a chance to detox by the sea, get some fresh air and sample local foodie delights, North Berwick is the perfect day trip. 

A 30-minute train journey from Edinburgh through Scottish farmland, once you arrive in North Berwick there’s so much to see and do. It’s a lovely contrast to a busy city break, so make the most of the seaside location and take a long stroll along its sandy beaches. If you’re looking for a more extended walk, visit the ruins of Tantallon Castle, perched dramatically on the surrounding clifftop. Admire the iconic Bass Rock, home to the world's largest colony of northern gannets, or catch a wildlife boat trip from the Scottish Seabird Centre to get a closer look. The town is also full of restaurants, seafood shacks and cafés to sample local produce – try Alandas for delicious ice cream, Steampunk for a warming coffee, Bostock Bakery for a crumbly pastry and, if you’re lucky, sample the morning’s fresh catch at The Lobster Shack in the harbour. 

Melrose Scottish Borders

Melrose Abbey

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Time from Edinburgh: 50-minute train (to Tweedbank station), 1-hour drive

The Scottish Borders is an area rich in history, culture and endlessly rolling landscapes. It’s easily accessible from both Edinburgh and England, so it makes a great stop off on the journey or as a day trip destination. 

There are plenty of towns to explore in the Scottish Borders, each with their own unique traditions and character. Melrose is conveniently located on a train stop on the Borders Railway, which is a beautiful train journey through the Scottish countryside. Hop off at Tweedbank station and discover the bustling market town, from the romantic ruins of Melrose Abbey to the delicious pastries you need to treat yourself to from Twelve Triangles bakery and coffee shop. For those looking for an outdoor adventure away from the city, the Eildon Hills just outside of Melrose are a great spot for some hillwalking in the fresh air.  

South Queensferry South Queensferry

The Forth Rail Bridge, Forth Road Bridge and Queensferry Crossing

Time from Edinburgh: 20-minute train (to Dalmeny, not Queensferry station!), 30-minute drive

If you’re looking for a quick trip filled with iconic sites, sea views and picturesque surroundings, then South Queensferry is for you!  

The town is made up of a colourful collection of painted houses on twisting cobbled streets, making it the perfect place for a peaceful wander. Pop into the independent shops and eateries to see what the locals have to offer, from artwork at the Harbour Lane Studio to a sweet treat from The Little Bakery. South Queensferry is most famous for its spectacular view of the Firth of Forth and the Forth Bridges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Why not join a boat trip experience for a fun way to learn more about the Firth of Forth? It’ll give you epic views of the bridges and hidden gems, such as Inchcolm Abbey, which sits on an island in the middle of the Firth and was founded by King David I. 

Linlithgow West Lothian

Linlithgow Palace

Time from Edinburgh: 20-minute train, 45-minute drive

Linlithgow is an historic village, only 20 minutes on the train from Edinburgh city centre. It's ideal for those looking for a quick day trip to soak up Scotland’s royal history – the palace was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and James V.  

Linlithgow Palace is a must-see for those making the trip to this West Lothian town. Built in 1424 by James I of Scotland, the palace was a royal residence until it was attacked by Oliver Cromwell in 1746. You can explore the Renaissance architecture, delve into its tumultuous history and enjoy the serene surroundings of Linlithgow Loch. The town itself also has lots to discover – make sure you plan a trip to Far From the Madding Crowd, a cosy and award-winning independent bookshop. For a flavour of the countryside, pick up locally grown produce and wholesome treats at Grow Wild. It's a farm shop with groceries from Bonnytoun Farm and is only a 15-minute walk from the end of the loch.

Roslin Midlothian

Rosslyn Chapel

Time from Edinburgh: 45-minute bus journey on the 37 bus, 30-minute drive  

If you’re interested in mystery, intrigue and legend, the Midlothian town of Roslin should definitely be on your list whilst in Edinburgh.  

A quick trip from the city centre, it’s home to the famous Rosslyn Chapel, a familiar site to any fan of The Da Vinci Code. The chapel itself is full of intricate stonemasonry and late-gothic features. You could easily spend hours admiring the craftsmanship and learning more about the many stories and mysteries associated with the site. The chapel sits within the historic surroundings of Roslin Glen, which is full of walks and paths to immerse you in the woodland setting. The River North Esk runs through the valley, bordered by the largest surviving stretch of ancient woodland in Midlothian. See if you can find the picturesque ruins of Rosslyn Castle or be inspired by the wildlife and nature that has engaged the likes of Wordsworth and J.M.W. Turner. 

Dunfermline Fife

Dunfermline Abbey

© Fife Council / Damian Shields

Time from Edinburgh: 35-minute train , 40-minute drive

If a captivating journey across the Forth Bridges and into the Kingdom of Fife appeals to you, then Dunfermline is a great starting point for an adventure into this region of Scotland. 

Dunfermline was made Scotland’s newest city in 2022. It has an ancient past and was once the capital of the country; kings and queens, including Robert the Bruce, are buried in the abbey here. Dunfermline Abbey has roots back to the 11th century and you really get a sense of the significance of the place as you wander through the Romanesque architecture. The town is also the birthplace of Andrew Carnegie, and his influence on the city is easy to see, from the first Carnegie Library to Pittencrieff Park, which he donated to the people of Dunfermline.  If you’re travelling by bike or car, then take a trip along the coast to explore the East Neuk of Fife, an area packed full of hidden gems, quaint fishing villages and stunning sea views. On a sunny day you may even be able to see back to Edinburgh across the Forth! 

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10 of the best family days out in Scotland in 2023

MadeForMums has researched the best days out in Scotland for families with different interests and budgets, bringing you our top 10 attractions for kids

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If you’re exploring Scotland with the family, you’ll want to get the most out of this beautiful and diverse part of the UK.

Whether it’s major sights in bustling city hotspots like Edinburgh and Glasgow, historic castles or simply enjoying Scotland's famously great outdoors, there’s plenty of activities and attractions for families with young children.

While no UK family holiday is complete without wellies and an emergency poncho, we’ve included a mix of outdoor gems like Landmark Forest Adventure Park, as well as indoor attractions like St Andrews Aquarium, that will keep youngsters enthralled whatever the weather.

So what are the best days out for families with young children visiting Scotland? Our top 10 should help families large and small plan a fun travel itinerary for a range of needs and budgets.

• Jump to our list of the best family days out in Scotland

Best days out in Scotland - at a glance

• Best for animal lovers: Edinburgh Zoo - Edinburgh Zoo tickets , Picniq and Kids Pass
• Best for history-loving kids: Stirling Castle - Stirling Castle tickets and Picniq
• Best for outdoor families: Landmark Forest Adventure Park - Landmark Forest Adventure Park tickets and Picniq
• Best for curious kids: Glasgow Science Centre - Glasgow Science Centre tickets and Picniq
• Best for rainy days: St Andrews Aquarium - St Andrews Aquarium tickets , Picniq and TripAdvisor
• Best budget day out: Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel - Riverside Museum tickets , Picniq and TripAdvisor
• Best for engaging young and old: Camera Obscura and World of Illusions - Camera Obscura tickets , TripAdvisor and Picniq
• Best for young adventurers: RRS Discovery - RRS Discovery tickets and TripAdvisor
• Best for dinosaur lovers: Dino Park - Dino Park tickets , TripAdvisor and Picniq
• Best for families with mobility issues: Blair Drummond Safari Park - Blair Drummond Safari Park tickets and Picniq

What are the best free attractions in Scotland?

More like this

Our list includes options for a range of budgets, from free entry to those worth saving up for to celebrate a special occasion. You can also see MadeForMums' suggestions for the best free family activities in Edinburgh , and best free family activities in Glasgow for even more ideas on a budget.

1. Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh

— best for animal lovers.

Family ticket from £65 | Best for all ages | Best in good weather | Free onsite parking | Haymarket Station 2 miles | Buy tickets in advance for best prices

There are more than a couple of reasons to visit Edinburgh Zoo, but two of the best are Yang Guang and Tian Tian. The pair are the UK’s only giant pandas and they’ll be calling Edinburgh home for at least another 18 months before they’re returned to China.

But with 2,500 creatures living here - from the cute and cuddly to the truly roarsome - there’s much more to Edinburgh Zoo. And plenty of it is under cover, in case of rain.

Lucy, mum to Alasdair, five, rates the additional facilities like the cafe and gift shop, and says: “Edinburgh Zoo’s not the cheapest attraction, but there’s loads to see. Alasdair liked watching the monkeys climbing in the trees and thought the meerkats were funny.”

The zoo is set over 82 acres within the city but it’s buggy friendly, so it’s no problem if little legs tire before you’ve covered the whole site. It is hilly though, so do bear in mind bigger legs might feel the burn!

Pros: Something for everyone; picnics allowed

Cons: Hillside setting might be tricky for those with limited mobility; queues can be long in the school holidays

Read our full MadeForMums review of Edinburgh Zoo

If you want to stay the night in Edinburgh, take a look at our pick of the best family hotels in Edinburgh .

Book tickets at: Edinburgh Zoo tickets , Picniq and Kids Pass

2. Stirling Castle, Stirling

— best for history-loving kids.

Family ticket: from £47.50 | Best for: 5+ | Best on a clear day | Limited, paid onsite parking | Stirling station 0.5 mile | Check website for special events

Who doesn’t love a castle on a hill? Edinburgh Castle might get all the attention, but for families with young children Stirling is the unsung hero.

From plush royal chambers to the obligatory cannons, there’s plenty to excite little people. Staff aren’t averse to a bit of period costume either, bringing all the history to life for younger visitors. The castle vaults now house loads of fun and interactive displays especially for kids, including historic musical instruments, the secrets of dressing like a king or queen and how jesters kept their monarch entertained.

The Unicorn Cafe does kids’ lunchboxes and has a good offering for adults too, at reasonable prices. Oh, and did we mention it’s not really on a hill? It’s actually an extinct volcano!

Pros: Educational, great views from the battlements

Cons: Lots of ground to cover and some steps, can get very busy, parking is pretty limited

Book tickets at: Stirling Castle tickets and Picniq

3. Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Cartridge

— best for outdoor families.

Family ticket from £92 | Best for 3+ | Good-weather attraction | Free, pre-booked onsite parking | Carrbridge station 1 mile | Online booking only

Set over acres of beautiful Highland forestry, Landmark is a theme park like no other. Expect dry and wet rides (which might be a bit tame by the bigger parks’ standards) and plenty more besides.

Head indoors for the Bamboozeleum, which is full of optical illusions and general oddities that kids will love, then pull on a harness for the Tarzan Trail high ropes challenge (or the Wee Monkey Trail for, well, wee monkeys).

Dinosaur Kingdom and the Butterfly House will also keep little ones engaged. To escape the crowds during busier times, head into the Ancient Forest Adventure for a wander among the pines to see if you can spot a red squirrel. Picnics are allowed, but there are also three food outlets in the park.

Pros: Unique experience, variety of attractions, beautiful location

Cons: Not great value for money for younger kids; queues for the more popular attractions

Book tickets at: Landmark Forest Adventure Park tickets and Picniq

4. Glasgow Science Centre, Glasgow

— best for curious kids.

Family ticket from £47 | Best for 7+ | All-weather attraction | Paid on-site parking | Exhibition Centre station 1 mile | Hosts Little Explorer Days and other special events, see website

You can’t miss Glasgow Science Centre on the banks of the River Clyde – its shiny IMAX is bound to attract kids’ attention for starters. Then there’s the 127-metre tower and the glass-fronted museum itself that on a sunny day reflect in the water, and visually add to the general buzz of this reinvigorated former industrial area.

Inside there’s lots of interactive fun for youngsters - from how our bodies work, to the make-up of the universe and how we’ll power the future. Under-7s can get busy at The Big Explorer, where they can don a hard hat and keep the GSC’s cargo ship afloat.

Jo, mum to Jenna, 7, said the water play was a hit. “It’s basically like a giant water table, and she was in her element,” she said. “It was great to see her working out how she could influence the path of the water.” If that’s not enough wow for you, the Planetarium and IMAX (costs from £3 extra) take a visit to the next level.

Pros: Hands-on fun and learning, great rainy day out

Cons: Car park can be tricky to find, some exhibits are too advanced for younger kids

Book tickets at: Glasgow Science Centre tickets and Picniq

5. St Andrews Aquarium, St Andrews

— best for rainy days.

Family ticket from £44 | Great for all ages | All-weather attraction although seal feeding and talks take place outside | Paid parking Bruce Embankment 100 yards | Leuchars station 6 miles | Feeding sessions for ages 8+

It’s not Scotland’s biggest aquarium but – thanks to a flexible interpretation of what constitutes aquatic life – it is one of the most diverse.

There are fish, of course, from all climates, as well as sharks, rays, seals, penguins and reptiles. More unexpectedly, you will find meerkats and a pair of rescued marmosets too.

Thanks to the compact design of the aquarium’s enclosures, kids can get right up close and watch as staff hand-feed these hilarious little characters. The harbour seals aren’t at all shy, in fact they seem more curious than the visitors, and put on a good show for kids.

Pros: St Andrews is perfect for a wander afterwards, small and friendly

Cons: Not currently wheelchair friendly, less glitzy than bigger aquariums

Book tickets at: St Andrews Aquarium tickets , Picniq and TripAdvisor

6. Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel, Glasgow

— best budget day out.

Free entry | Ideal for all ages | All-weather attraction | Paid onsite parking | Partick station 0.6 miles | No need to book

If you’re looking for a cheap but entertaining day out with the kids, you’d be hard pressed to find anything more interesting than the Riverside Museum.

Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects to replace the city’s musty and ageing transport museum in 2011, the site is bright, airy and accessible for all. If it rolls, floats or chugs it’s in here – there’s everything from steam engines to skateboards.

Kids can climb aboard a tram from the city’s now defunct system, as well as a jiggling historic carriage from Glasgow’s ‘Clockwork Orange’ underground. There’s also a recreated street scene from the early 1900s, where kids can explore the shops and buildings.

As the name suggests, the museum sits at the meeting of the Rivers Clyde and Kelvin and there’s a display dedicated to the area’s shipbuilding tradition. The Clydebuilt Tall Ship Glenlee is next door and is also free with no need to book. Ahoy!

Pros: Free and flexible, picnic area inside

Cons: You need to like transport, fewer hands-on activities than other museums

Book tickets at: Riverside Museum tickets , Picniq and TripAdvisor

7. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Edinburgh

— best for engaging young and old.

Family ticket from £55 | Best for 3+ | All-weather attraction | Discounted parking at Castle Terrace NCP 0.4 miles| Waverley station 0.5 miles | Visitors can borrow baby carriers

Nothing is what it seems is the catchline at Camera Obscura, and it’s definitely a fair description. There are more than 100 mind-bending hands-on exhibits over the six floors of the museum, which was the city’s first ever purpose-built attraction (and a lot of its offering has a real old-school circus feel).

While the building makes access tricky for those with mobility issues, the cityscape views from its rooftop terrace are among the best you’ll find in Edinburgh.

It’s not unknown for even the accompanying grown-up (ahem) to get well and truly lost in their baffling Mirror Maze. And your kids will probably never let you forget it (once they’ve stopped laughing). Get your own back by navigating the Vortex ‘spinning’ tunnel like a pro while they scream and grab for the railings.

Pros: Situated right in old Edinburgh beside the Castle, something for the whole family

Cons: The 6 floors aren’t accessible for all, there’s a gift shop but no cafe

Book tickets at: Camera Obscura tickets , TripAdvisor and Picniq

8. RRS Discovery, Dundee

— best for young adventurers.

Family ticket from £27.75 | Good for all ages | Best in good weather | Discovery Point car park 0.05 miles | Dundee station directly opposite | You don’t have to pre-book but you can

When you clap eyes on RRS Discovery, you’ll struggle to believe this ship has been to the most inhospitable place on Earth. To younger visitors it’ll look like a pirate ship, but this incredible vessel was actually built for exploring Antarctica in 1900.

The museum takes kids through the conditions Captain Scott and his crew faced on the voyage with displays about food, clothing and equipment, as well as first-hand accounts. Then for the best bit – they can climb aboard the ship herself in the city of its construction and explore everything from the Galley to the Mess Deck and Scott’s own cabin, which was said to be the coldest part of the ship. And in Antarctica you can bet that was chilly!

Pros: Unique experience, good-value cafe on site

Cons: Construction works may cause disruption (ticket prices have been discounted), the ship is not fully accessible

Book tickets at: RRS Discovery tickets and TripAdvisor

9. Dino Park, near Dumfries

— best for dinosaur lovers.

Family ticket from £37 | Best for pre-school children | Soft play on site in case of bad weather | Free on-site parking | Dumfries station 8 miles | Outdoor park is open summertime only (April-October)

If your little one is dino-mad, take them on a dinosaur safari on the trail of velociraptors, triceratops and T-Rex (and those are just the big-ticket names). They can also play at being a palaeontologist for the day in the Dino Dig section, where they can search for fossils and bones, while learning about where they came from.

There’s also a Dino Mine, taking visitors underground among yet more lurking creatures and the Dino Den, where staff teach kids about dinosaurs.

If the weather takes a turn for the worse, the combined ticket covers 2 hours in the extensive indoor soft play. There’s also a snack bar on site and illuminated tours are available at night time.

Pros: Great for dino fans, accessible and buggy-friendly

Cons: Food options are quite limited, probably won’t fill a whole day

Book tickets at: Dino Park tickets , TripAdvisor and Picniq

10. Blair Drummond Safari Park, near Stirling

— best for families with mobility issues.

Family ticket from £65 | Best for 3+ | Best in good weather | Free onsite parking | Stirling Station 6 miles | Discounted entry for late time slots | Advance booking essential

You get a lot of park for your money at Blair Drummond – the site covers a massive 160 acres in the grounds of a mansion house.

The varied attractions include rides, adventure playground, slides, zip lines and pedal boats, alongside a whole host of animals. As you’d expect from a safari park they have all the big names – lions, tigers, white rhino, giraffes, zebra and elephants. Some of them are in enclosures kids can walk right up to, while the big cats are in larger, car-only sections.

There’s also a lovely pets farm where children can get close to donkeys, pigs, llamas and other friendly faces. Sea lion shows take place indoors.

Fiona, mum to Bethany, 4, says taking your own lunch helps to keep the costs down. “They also provide barbecues free of charge,” she says. “Bethany also loves the various swing parks.” The main adventure playground, situated near the park’s new dinosaur attraction, is one of the best in the area and gives parents a well-earned rest after pounding the pavements around the vast site.

Pros: Flat and accessible for buggies, lots of varied attractions

Cons: Queues for the boat trip to Chimp Island; large site with a walk to reach the toilets

Book tickets at: Blair Drummond Safari Park tickets and Picniq

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Within a few hours, you could be whisked away for a vibrant city break, explore the ruined abbeys that dot the southern border, discover prehistoric chambered cairns, wander around crag top castles that tell the history of the Highlands’ turbulent past, or enjoy a day of beachcombing and woodland strolls. At the end of a full day, you can spend your evening relaxing by a crackling fire in a cosy pub with a dram of your favourite whisky. Is it any wonder Scotland rarely fails to charm its visitors?

It can be hard to choose a destination for the best weekend break in Scotland because they are all great, so we’ve asked some fellow travellers to join us with their favourite weekend getaway ideas to give you choices if you’re looking for inspiration. We have included ideas for what to see and do, recommendations for places to stay, and great places to eat, to help you make the most of your well-deserved getaway.

No matter which getaway you choose, you’re sure to have a wonderful weekend away filled with history, delicious food and drink, and the landscapes and scenery that make  Scotland  so beautiful!

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Weekend breaks in scotland.

• Loch Torridon
• Isle of Skye
• Moray Speyside
• Fort William
• St. Andrews
• Glenapp Castle

Weekend Breaks in Scotland Map

The charming resort town of Oban on the west coast of Scotland just over an hour south of Fort William has all the ingredients for a perfect weekend break.

Nature lovers will simply revel in the incredible landscapes of the surrounding region. Miles of rugged and romantic coastlines and an abundance of walking and hiking routes through the verdant countryside make Oban ideal for an active couple of days. That’s even without considering the opportunity for a boat or fishing trip out into the Firth.

Fancy going further afield? Then hop on one of the many ferry services for a day trip to one of the nearby islands such as Mull or Iona and enjoy yet more stunning scenery.

Nestled amongst such natural riches it is unsurprising that Oban is also a haven for food lovers. The town boasts an abundance of enticing fish and seafood restaurants perfect to celebrate your day in the Scottish countryside or merely savour as you watch a splendid sunset. For a cheaper, yet just as delicious experience, head to MacGillivray’s Seafood stall located in between the train station and ferry terminal. Their fish supper is likely to be the best you’ll taste anywhere in Scotland.

Talking of taste experiences no one can visit Oban without stepping foot inside the famous distillery in the heart of the town. Their hugely informative tasting experience will leave you with an undeniable warmth and a fresh perspective of Scotland’s most famous product.

Contribution and Photo from Paul of The Two That Do

LOCH TORRIDON

Loch Torridon, and the accompanying Torridon Resort , have completely changed the meaning of an amazing break in Scotland.

Imagine a gorgeous lake with wilderness for miles on end, complete seclusion with nothing but birds chirping and wind whirling past you. A beautiful valley with a lake in the middle with its icy clear water and you’re free to do whatever you want in this paradise.

Located in the Scottish Highlands, Torridon requires careful planning and a car to get to. If you take the A835 from Inverness heading to A896 it will bring you to Upper Torridon. The drive is very scenic and a leisurely activity on its own.

If you want to camp you can do it easily on one of their two campsites or if you want to splurge a bit, head to the Torridon Resort . This hotel is world-renowned and whether you want to stay here for the night or just stop here for a meal or afternoon tea you will not be disappointed. The hotel offers a lot of activities to connect you to nature from kayaking, cycling and ultimately taking the plunge in the icy waters of the lake with the knowledge that a hot bath is waiting for you. Or you can simply connect with yourself with a book by the window with the crackling sound of a fire in the background while savouring a glass of whiskey (which they have an extensive collection of).

The entire experience of Torridon is a little surreal and you are bound to return home with a smile and a sense of satisfaction after your weekend break.

Contribution from Ucman of Brown Boy Travels

ISLE OF SKYE

For an active getaway showcasing world-class scenery, head to the Isle of Skye in northern Scotland . This island escape has got it all – jaw-dropping landscapes, epic road trips, mouth-watering food, and adventurous hikes.

Portree is the most convenient base on the island and is well connected to all of the best attractions. Bosville Hotel is a good accommodation option as the front-facing rooms overlook the colourful harbour.

The dramatic Cuillin mountain range is only around a 20-minute drive away and offers amazing hillwalking opportunities with some of the best views in the entire country. Only head up into the mountains if the weather and visibility are good though!

The Fairy Pools is located close to the Cuillin gateway and should be a stop for anyone visiting Skye. These beautiful rock pools are filled with incredibly clear water, all cascading down via waterfalls from the mountains. It is easy to see why this area has become so popular, it really is like something from a fairy tale!

Finally, don’t miss the famous  Trotternish Loop , a circuit road around the north of the island. This connects some of the most impressive sights on Skye, including the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the Quirkian. The loop takes around two hours to drive but if time allows, it is well worth doing the circular hike around the Quiriang. The views over to the isles of Raasay and Rona are incredible. On a clear day, you’ll also be able to see way out to the mainland. The hike should take between three-four hours.

For dinner, head back to Portree where there are plenty of food and drink options. For a taste of the famous Cullen skink, grab a table at Cuchullin Restaurant in the middle of town.

Contribution and Photo from Sheree of Winging the World

MORAY SPEYSIDE

Sandwiched between Inverness and Aberdeen, the Moray Speyside region of northeastern Scotland offers a great weekend break for nearly every type of traveler.

The region has been made famous for having the highest concentration of whisky distilleries in Scotland. Many of the world’s most famous whisky brands including Chivas and Johnny Walker call Moray Speyside home. Speyside is also home to the only Malt Whisky Trail, allowing visitors, with a designated driver, of course, to experience the perfect Scotland whisky tour . At the distillery, visitors will learn how whisky is made and sample a wee taste of whisky.

For food travelers, Moray Speyside is a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. With access to incredibly fresh ingredients from the sea and the land, cooks around Moray Speyside are serving up vast amounts of mouth-watering traditional and modern Scottish dishes. One place worth checking out is the Copper Dog Pub in the Craigellachie Hotel . Their menu bursts with locally sourced, innovative Scottish fare, including Haggis bon-bons. The Craigellachie is situated in the middle of Moray Speyside, making it the perfect location to explore around from.

To help burn off all that great food there are plenty of outdoor activities to experience in Moray Speyside. The natural beauty of Moray Speyside is unmatched with rolling hills, crystal blue rivers, and a stunning coastline. Hikers will find several trails throughout the region. Most famous is the trail up Ben Rinnes, the highest peak in the region at 2,700 feet.

No visit is complete without a visit to Gordon Castle and its walled garden. Dating back to the 18th Century, Gordon Castle was one of the largest country houses ever built in Scotland. Today, the walled garden is open to the public to explore the many herbs, vegetables, and flowers being grown. There is a cafe in the garden to enjoy a light lunch made with ingredients from the garden or afternoon tea.

Contribution and Photo from Amber and Eric of Food & Drink Destinations

The Orkney Islands are a collection of small islands just eight miles off the Scottish Mainland from John O’Groats.  They are perfect for a weekend of nature, wildlife, and walking with a lot of history in the mix.  Orkney Mainland is the main island and provides more than enough to see and do without needing to take ferries or fly to the smaller islands.

The islands are quiet and calm and even as you step off the ferry the difference can be felt.  The landscape is not as dramatic as other Scottish Islands, but the lack of trees and high cliffs makes it feel wild and remote.  Year-round there is a breeze blowing which can range from a gentle breeze to a raging gale.  Multiple layers and windproof clothing is essential even for a summer visit.

One of the main attractions on Orkney is the UNESCO world heritage site .  These have been identified because of their historical significance.  Skara Brae is a Neolithic village that was uncovered by a storm in 1850 and today the remains of the buildings with their bed boxes and dressers can be seen.  Nearby is the Ring of Brodgar, a large stone circle.  From the ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness and Maes Howe Burial Chamber can all be seen and are all part of Neolithic life in Orkney.

In Kirkwall, the main city is the beautiful St Magnus Cathedral with the ruins of the Bishops and Earls palaces.  The story of Kirkwall and the islands are told in the nearby museum.

As well as history there are beautiful beaches, high cliffs, and an abundance of wildlife including puffins in the summer months, seals, and otters.  There are a number of nature reserves and if you are lucky you may see a short-eared owl just sitting on the side of the road.

There is a range of places to stay but Heatherlea Bed & Breakfast is a perfect place to start exploring the islands.  For the best restaurants, it has to be the Foveran Restaurant just outside Kirkwall who also has beautiful accommodation.

Contribution and Photo from Suzanne of Meandering Wild

READ MORE:  Guide to Visiting Scotland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

For a relaxing weekend break, head to the port city of Aberdeen in northeastern Scotland . The town is built where the Dee and Don rivers flow into the North Sea and is known for its stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and rich cultural history. As the country’s third-largest city, you’ll find a wonderful mix of cozy restaurants and bars, great museums, and picturesque scenery.

Aberdeen is known as the ‘Granite City’, a reference to the many grey-stone granite buildings that you can see throughout the town. A great example of this is Marischal College in the center of Aberdeen. Built in 1593, this enormous structure is said to be the second-largest granite building in the world. Other remarkable architectural gems lie in the Old Aberdeen, including St Machar Cathedral, a breathtaking place of worship, as well as King’s College. You’ll find plenty of lovely places to stay and eat in Old Aberdeen. Check out Kilau for some great coffee and brunch. The Alba Guest House is a great stay and only a ten-minute walk to King’s College.

For a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hazlehead Park or go for a stroll through the Johnston Gardens. The gardens feature several exotic Japanese flowers, as well as a rustic bridge, waterfall, and even several calming streams.

Another great way to appreciate the outdoors is to explore the Aberdeen harbor. Several tour companies offer cruises where you can often spot different marine species such as bottlenose and Risso dolphins, as well as minke whales. For a different vantage point, check out Torry Battery, where you can take in the vistas from above.

Contribution from Natasha of Great Ocean Road Collective

Possibly the coolest and most vibrant city in Scotland is Glasgow. For many years, it was overshadowed by Edinburgh and, while it’s fair to say that Edinburgh has a greater number of popular tourist attractions , you shouldn’t miss out on visiting Glasgow during your Scotland trip. Glasgow is full of vibrant nightlife, affordable restaurants, hipster cafes, green parks, art galleries, and culture making it perfect for city lovers.

A weekend in Glasgow  is best started by an excellent brunch; top picks are Wilson Street Pantry in the city centre or Gnom (or the breakfast bao buns), Potluck (don’t miss the hotcakes with ice cream and candy floss) or Cafe Strangebrew in Southside. Other things to do include wandering Pollok Park with its highland cow population and checking out notable attractions in the city such as Kelvingrove Art Gallery, the City Chambers, and the Botanical Gardens. The Lighthouse is a fantastic modern art gallery built in the old headquarters of the Glasgow Herald newspaper. Climb the awesome spiral staircase for impressive skyline views from the top balcony.

The Glasgow street art is fantastic so don’t miss this if you’re a fan! Another quirky thing to do in Glasgow is to find tiny coffee shops inside refurbished blue police phone boxes. For fantastic food in Glasgow, check out Hanoi Bike Shop and Bread Meats Bread known for its burgers and fries with toppings from around the world.

Contribution and Photo from Rose of Where Goes Rose

Inveraray is quintessential Scotland. Sitting on the shores of Loch Fyne in southwestern Scotland , Argyll’s county town with its streets of distinctive black-and-white terraced buildings framed by mountains is home to one of the best castles in Scotland .

Although it is beloved by day-trippers, spend the weekend in Inveraray to get the most out of the town. It also an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area, perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, or just a relaxing break, punctuated by great meals.

Fans of Downton Abbey will immediately recognise Inveraray Castle but this is no historic set piece. This fairy-tale castle continues to be home to the Duke of Argyll and its Armoury hall provides a whistle-stop tour of Scottish Highland history. Make time to walk on the castle’s grounds. If you’re very lucky you may spot a red squirrel, an increasingly rare sight in the UK.

For visits out of town, head to Luss, the picture-postcard-perfect village on the shores of the mighty Loch Lomond. Alternatively, take a scenic drive along Argyll’s Secret Coast to Tighnabruaich or take a walk in Argyll Forest Park. The view from ‘Rest and Be Thankful’, the mountain pass between Glen Kinglass and Glen Croe, is sensational.

Stay overnight at the Thistle Guest House in St Catherine’s to be treated to typical Scottish hospitality, traditional breakfasts, and Loch Fyne views.

For sublime seafood, eat at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, a ten-minute drive from Inveraray. Not to be confused with the small restaurant chain of the same name, they also have a great deli counter.

Contribution and Photo from Bridge of The Flashpacker

FORT WILLIAM

Located in the Lochaber area in the western highlands of Scotland, on the edge of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is the perfect base to explore the area which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in Scotland. With Ben Nevis on its doorstep, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Monument, and visitor centre a short drive to the west, and Glencoe to the south you are spoilt for choice for a weekend itinerary.

For lovers of hillwalking and climbing Ben Nevis or one of the many other mountains (or Munros) in the area offers a variety of options. Prefer a road trip? Take a drive to Glencoe for scenery that will be guaranteed to take your breath away. For budding 007’s the Skyfall drive to Glen Etive is a must-do.

If you enjoy a train trip don’t miss the Jacobite Steam Train. The train departs Fort William for Mallaig along the West Highland Line and crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct along the way. The viaduct may seem familiar to Harry Potter fans. The Hogwarts Express steam train carrying Harry Potter and chums features in four of the films!

Not to be missed in Fort William itself is the Granite House which specialises in gifts and souvenirs and is popular with locals and visitors alike. Recommended restaurants in Fort William include Crannog which serves beautiful fresh Scottish seafood, Garrison West a popular Scottish pub with tasty food and drink, and The Wildcat Coffee Shop which serves vegan food.

Contribution and Photo from Tracy of UK Travel Planning

Islay, pronounced ‘eye-la’, is the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides and it is a great destination for a weekend getaway and a must for any whisky enthusiast where it is the home of Scotland’s most revered peat smoked Scotch whiskies.

On the island, there are nine active distilleries to explore, each with their own experiences and tours so there is enough to keep busy with whisky exploration alone. A number of these distilleries can also be reached by foot from the arrival ports and Port Ellen marks the beginning of the ‘3 Distillery Pathway’ which connects the three famed distilleries of Laphraiog, Lagulvin, and Ardbeg along a 3-mile Route following the southeast coastline. Laphroaig is also one of the more popular distillery tours for those planning a quick day trip to Islay .

There is also much to explore through longer stays and for those planning to drive or even cycle on the island, there are many coastal drives and somewhat unworldly scenery with empty landscapes and seemingly endless peat bogs. Because the island is focused on whisky and the distilleries it can be hard to find restaurants outside of mealtimes but each distillery will have their own cafes and restaurants to pair with their range of whiskies.

Accommodation is also limited so booking is best in advance and a great hotel within a short walk of the near beach at Port Ellen is the Machrie Hotel & Golf Links . It’s perfect for both those arriving and travelling by car or on foot on the island.

Contribution and Photo from Allan of It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

Shetland is the perfect weekend break and will feel a world apart from the rest of Scotland. Situated in northern Scotland , just 190 miles from the coast of Norway, there is an undeniable Norwegian lilt to the dialect of the locals. Many of the buildings also have something Scandi about them in their colours and design.

Travel through the 15 inhabited islands (and around a hundred uninhabited ones) and see beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and wildlife everywhere. Take the inter-island ferries to the very top of the UK and the island of Unst where you can walk through Hermaness National Park and see flocks of birds (Gannets, Puffins, and Kittiwakes to name a few), so many it will take your breath away, nestled in the cliffs and swirling through the sky in a cloud of white and grey.

If you are visiting  Shetland with kids then don’t miss the chance to steer a replica Viking ship situated on Unst, amongst all the Viking remains, so many of which have been discovered on Shetland. From seal spotting on a boat trip to Noss to watching baby otters play on the beaches, the wildlife on Shetland is everywhere and a real sight to behold.

Don’t miss the foodie revolution in the main town of Lerwick though. Here there are some fantastic restaurants serving both local and international fare which are well worth taking the time to enjoy.

Finally when visiting the islands don’t miss a chance to see the beautiful Shetland ponies in the place where they are really at home. There’s so much to see in Shetland you’ll visit for a weekend and then have to plan a longer trip.

Contribution from Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Cairngorms National Park is an incredible destination for a weekend in Scotland with much to offer – from distilleries to woodland hikes, to charming villages and gorgeous castles . The main draw, however, is the absolutely gorgeous scenery and nature throughout the Cairngorms, with incredible hikes for nature lovers. Whisky lovers will also enjoy the several distilleries where you can mix and match the type of travel or come back a second time for something new and different.

The inherent beauty of the landscape within the Cairngorms is what draws nearly two million guests a year. Its stunning landscapes capture the heart and soul of visitors with the dramatic peaks of mountains and the hillsides covered in heather and thistle. Even just the drive through the Cairngorms, either through the western A9 route or the more rural A93 route are worth the visit.

There is much to do, see, and experience throughout the Cairngorms that it is hard to choose favourites but a few highlights would be:

• Whisky and chocolate tasting at Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Walk to Burn o’Vat in Muir of Dinnet
• Visit the residence of the Queen at Balmoral Castle
• Distillery tour at Royal Lochnagar Distillery
• Learn about local history at Braemar Castle
• Spot the castle on an island in Loch en Eilein
• Experience the grandeur of Blair Castle
• Climb Ben Macdui, the second-highest peak in the UK

Where to stay? There are a variety of options but to truly experience the highlands (at a reasonable price) you need to stay at the charming Dalmunzie Castle Hotel .

Contribution and Photo from Jamie of Travel Addict

READ MORE:  Beautiful and Historic Castles to Visit in Scotland

ST. ANDREWS

Located only 1h30 from Edinburgh in southeast Scotland , St Andrews is an excellent destination if you are looking for a weekend break in Scotland.

The town was made famous in the past few years because it is the place where Prince William and Kate Middleton met when they were in university. Their university, St Andrews University, is in the town centre and is a beautiful building that you can visit for free! Regardless of this connection with the royal family, St Andrews is a beautiful town, packed with history.

The main attraction is St Andrews Castle found perched on the top of a cliff. The ruins of the castle are a great place to visit if you love history and want to soak up the beautiful ocean views! Another landmark worth seeing is the St Andrews Cathedral.

St Andrews is also a good place for outdoor activities in Scotland . There are a lot of walks in the area, including the stunning Fife coastal path. And, if you are travelling with a dog, you are in for a treat! Or at least your fur baby is! The beaches in St Andrews are stunning. If you go in the morning, when the tide is low, you can enjoy a long, leisurely walk.

The Keys Bar, on Market Street, is an authentic Scottish pub where you can go for lunch or dinner. They serve typical Scottish food and delicious fish and chips. It was also awarded the best whisky bar in Scotland in 2017 so if you fancy giving a go to Scotland’s national drink, that’s the place to do it!

For the full Scottish experience, stay at the Greyfriars Inn . It’s a pub with a few hotel rooms upstairs. The location is ideal and the staff very friendly.

Contribution and Photo from Pauline of Beeloved City

GLENAPP CASTLE

For a romantic weekend break not much beats staying at a luxurious Scottish castle . And the best place to stay is Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, south of Glasgow.

The hotel has 17 lavish bedrooms, atmospheric common rooms, and well-kept grounds. There are two dining options – a 3 or 6-course tasting menu in the main castle or a la carte within the glasshouse, a chic new addition to the property within the walled garden. You can easily spend a couple of days here never leaving the grounds, but there are a few other sights in southern Scotland that should not be missed.

Ailsa Craig, the half-circle-shaped island, can be seen from many of the rooms at the hotel. It is famous for mining granite used for the best curling stones in the world as well as its rich birdlife. Boat trips can be arranged from the small harbour town of Girvan.

Other attractions are Culzean Castle, a vast and opulent building. In addition to its fabulous interior décor, it has a large garden and deer park. Culzean Castle has a link with President Eisenhower who visited four times. He was given the use of the top floor apartment for his life as a thank you for the American assistance during the Second World War.

Further south lies Portpatrick, Corsewall Lighthouse, and Bladnoch Distillery. Portpatrick is the prettiest village in the area and has several restaurants and cafes. For something a bit more unusual, Corsewall Lighthouse is not just a working lighthouse, it is also a restaurant and hotel.

Surrounded by rolling green hills, what the scenery around the Glenapp lacks compared to the more dramatic scenery further north, it more than makes up for with its luxury and friendly staff.

Contribution and Photo from Kristin of Adventures with Ensuite

For a relaxing weekend getaway in Scotland, Kelso is a great place to visit. A small market town in the Borders in the southeast of Scotland , Kelso is full of interesting independent shops.

Kelso boasts two castles to visit –  Floors Castle, the stunning 18th-century castle, an estate with walled gardens to wander around and the ruins of Roxburgh Castle which sit on a hill opposite overlooking the River Teviot. The ruins of the 12th-century Kelso Abbey are from the same time as Roxburgh Castle and are one of the most spectacular examples of Romanesque architecture in Scotland.

Just outside of Kelso is Smailholm Tower, which gives an insight into life in the 15th-century and offers magnificent views over the surrounding countryside. The old railway line between Kelso and Roxburgh is paved and makes a pleasant walk as well as paths near the Rivers Tweed and Teviot.

All the coffee shops and restaurants in Kelso are independent. Seasons Coffee Shop and Café U in Roxburgh Street are both friendly places for coffee and a spot of lunch. Try Cobbles Restaurant just off the Square for elevated pub food using local produce and across the way try one of Becattelli artisan ice creams including some delicious vegan ice creams.

For a bit of luxury, a stay at the Schloss Roxburghe is recommended with its own championship golf course, spa, fishing, clay pigeon shooting, and beautiful grounds. Or, if you prefer to stay in town, there are a range of place to stay including the Cross Keys Hotel or a selection of self-catering Diverso apartments.

Horse racing is another draw to Kelso with the Kelso Racecourse holding National Hunt races from September through to May. And, on the third Saturday of every month, the Square is taken over for the Farmers’ Market with stalls selling locally raised beef, cheeses, breads, cakes, and plants.

Contribution and Photo from Larch of The Silver Nomad

A weekend in Edinburgh  is simply not enough, but that just means you will have to come back for a second weekend or more to see more of the amazing sights of Scotland’s capital city!

First-time visitors to the city will no doubt find plenty to do on the Royal Mile, a one-mile-long route between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyrood House.

At the top of the Royal Mile, you’ll find Edinburgh Castle which dates from the 11th-century and has been a royal home, a military barracks, and a prison. Visitors can see the Scottish crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny, explore the Royal Palace and National War Museum and see the enormous Mons Meg gun. At 13:00 each day, the one o clock gun is fired which used to be used by ships in the Firth of Forth to set their maritime clocks.

At the bottom of the Royal Mille, you can visit Holyrood Palace which is the official residence of the Queen in Scotland. You can explore staterooms, the chamber of Mary, Queen of Scots, the throne room, and more. The ruins of Holyrood Abbey are well worth a look just next door to the Palace.

Elsewhere along the Royal Mile, visitors will find museums, a camera obscura, churches and you can even explore the history of Edinburgh underground with a tour of the Blair Street Underground Vaults. Visitors in August can enjoy the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, and all year round you can learn about Scotland’s most famous export – whisky – at the Scotch Whisky Experience.

Off the Royal Mile, you can climb 287 steps of the Scott Monument for a great view, have a coffee in the Elephant House, where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter, or hike up to the famous Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park for expansive views of the city. There is just so much to see and do in Edinburgh !

READ MORE:  How to Spend a Weekend in Edinburgh

A great weekend getaway in Scotland is visiting the city of Inverness located in the Scottish Highlands which is seen as the capital of this region. The city is not that large, but it is really worth visiting. Moreover, Inverness is the northernmost city of the country and is a lovely city with a rich history.

Inverness is the perfect place for a city break and there is so much to see and do. There are many historic landmarks in the city, such as Inverness Castle which features Shakespeare’s play, Macbeth !

Another great thing to do is to go to the covered Victorian Market, in the heart of the city, where you can see stores that sell a variety of products. Also, if you stroll through the streets you can see remarkable architecture. You can also visit one of the art galleries of the city, such as the Castle Gallery or Scottish Flair Art Gallery, both of which get great reviews.

Besides the city itself, you should not miss a visit to Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age circular chamber tomb, or the famous Loch Ness. Both are just outside Inverness and are great places to discover nature surrounding the city.

Because the city is not that large, you can get anywhere from anywhere so anywhere in the city centre is a great place to stay. If you are hungry, check out one of the best restaurants in the city – Cheese & Tomatin . This is an inexpensive pizza place that serves delicious pizzas that taste as if they were made in Italy!

Contribution from Dymphe of Dymabroad

Looking for more information to plan your visit to Scotland? You may find these articles helpful.

• 8 Great Places to Visit in Southeast Scotland

Beautiful and Historic Castles to Visit in Scotland

Guide to scotland’s unesco world heritage sites.

• 21 Things to Do in Edinburgh

WEEKEND BREAKS IN SCOTLAND MAP

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO SCOTLAND

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• Want to visit castles in Scotland? Check out   The Complete Illustrated Guide to Castles, Palaces, and Stately House of Britain and Ireland   and you’re sure to find plenty to explore!
• The Most Amazing Royal Places in Britain   brings British heritage to life with hundreds of ideas for days out to discover castles, grand estates, and the secret hideaways of kings and queens.
• For all things Scotland, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   Scotland travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

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