Wherever you go in Scotland you’ll find castles, museums and lots do for all the family. Here are four of our favourites
Blair Drummond Safari Park
Blair Drummond, by Stirling, FK94UR
Lions, tigers, bears and elephants; what toddler could ask for more? This is one of the best family days out we’ve had. There’s so much to see and do, make sure you arrive early and plan to spend a full day there. Our highlights were the boat trip around Chimp Island and the Sea Lion show. The whole Park is really well laid out so you can enjoy your drive through the safari and see the rhinos, lions, camels and much more. Then you can park and amble at will. It was magical seeing the elephants and giraffes just a few feet away and all of our children were hopping with excitement throughout the day! There’s a restaurant and plenty of places to picnic but we’d recommend pre-booking and taking food to BBQ and using the BBQ area. This safari park comes with a ‘highly recommended’ as a really memorable family day out!
Tel: 01786 841456 www.blairdrummond.com
Culzean Castle & Country Park
Maybole, Ayrshire, KA19 8LE
Culzean (pronounced Culayn!) is the jewel in the crown of the Scottish National Trust (English National Trust members get in free). Perched on the cliffs of the stunning Ayrshire coastline the views from the castle are incredible. You can potter around the lovely gardens, descend the steps to one of the three fantastic sandy beaches, enjoy the fab adventure play area and have a really great day out.
Tel: 0844 493 2149 www.culzeanexperience.org
Glasgow Science Centre & the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
50 Pacific Quay Glasgow G51 1EA (Science Centre)
Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8AG (Kelvingrove)
There’s a chance on a trip to Scotland that you might get caught out by the weather. If you do, pop into Glasgow and try out some of the world class museums. The Science Museum is home to C-Beebies’ Nina and the Neurons and is packed with child-friendly exhibits and interactives. The Kelvingrove is Glasgow’s stunning Museum and Art Gallery, in the heart of the wonderful West End of the city. The Kelvingrove is always full of children and you’ll find lots to keep them interested and engaged, and there’s a very nice café in the basement for lunch!
Science Centre: Tel: 0141 420 5000 www.glasgowsciencecentre.org
Kelvingrove: Tel: 0141 276 9599 www.glasgowmuseums.com
Highland Adventure Safari
Aberfeldy Perthshire PH15 2JQ
If you’re staying in Perthshire book yourself a highland safari for a really memorable family day out! There are lots of adventures to choose from, you can go wildlife spotting or even pan for gold. My favourite is the cycling safari, where your bikes (including baby seats, tag-alongs or trailers) are taken up the steep climb and then you get to enjoy all the views and a gentle 16 mile downhill cycle ride. You can have optional bagpipes and whisky at the summit, Scottish heaven!
Tel: 01887 820071 www.highlandsafaris.net
