Family Days Out
You could visit a spooky old castle, spend the afternoon in a protected nature reserve, spot dolphins on the Moray Firth, there are plenty of things to keep the whole family entertained in Scotland.
Dolphin, seal and whale watching
Scottish coastal waters have some of the world’s most northerly dolphins. Day trips are available in the Moray Firth– a protected conservation area – and in Munlochy Bay near Inverness. It’s not uncommon to see bottlenose dolphins, porpoises, common and grey seals and the occasional minke whale in spring and summer.
Dolphin cruises are also run out of Inverness harbour, near to Inverness city centre. Cruises go out to Munlochy Bay, an RSPB sanctuary and groups often see common and grey seals. Amenities like shops, galleries, hotels, hostels and guesthouses are all nearby too.
Scotland’s castles
Undoubtedly Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle are two of Scotland’s most famous and most imposing castles.
Sitting on top of an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny and the One O’clock Gun. Castle Stewards provide regular tours around the historic building and audio guides are available in eight different languages.
Stirling Castle is open all year round. The huge Great Hall dates from the end of the Middle Ages and has been restored to its medieval glory and the palace is the finest renaissance building in Scotland.
The city of Stirling is in the centre of Scotland as is easy to get to from almost everywhere in the country.
Country parks
Spanning 200 acres, Dean Castle Country Park, in east Ayrshire, offers an enjoyable day out for the whole family. The park has a number of beautiful walks, a 14th century castle with a world-class collection of historic weapons and armour to keep adults and children amused. The park’s urban farm has horses, fallow deer and highland cattle to keep children amused. The park is open from April to October and entry is free.
Mugdock Country Park is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Scotland and provides a range of walking, orienteering, cycling and horse riding activities for the whole family. The park’s Ranger Service works with East Dumbartonshire Council to encourage outdoor learning and environmental activities in the park.
More on Scotland’s wildlife from VisitScotland
More on Dean Castle County Park
More on Mugdock Country Park