If you’re looking for a different experience on your next family holiday then consider a trip to Scotland. The northern nation of the UK has a lot to offer holidaymakers, even it if can’t claim to have the warmer summer temperatures of the south.
From its awe-inspiring landscapes to its vibrant culture and history, there’s so much to enjoy and experience in Scotland.
Whether you’re looking for more of an adventurous holiday or a gentler pace of exploration, a Scottish getaway offers the chance to make some epic family memories together and become one of your best ever family breaks UK.
So, here’s our preview of just a few of the things you could fit into your itinerary if you make Scotland the destination of your next family holiday.
Visit historic castles
Thanks to its long and storied history Scotland boasts an impressive number of castles, each of which has its own stories to tell. There’s the iconic Edinburgh Castle, sitting atop an extinct volcano and overlooking the city, and the epic Stirling Castle, former home of many Scottish monarchs, to name just two.
Spend a day exploring the winding staircases, climb to the tops of towering castle walls and walk in the footsteps of their medieval residents. Some castles even feature costumed characters who bring history to life and most offer interactive exhibits to inform and entertain visitors.
Explore the beautiful wilderness
With its mix of mountainous terrain, lush lowlands and dramatic coastline, Scotland has plenty of incredible scenery to explore. It’s impossible to capture it all in one holiday, but you and your family can easily spend time in the country simply roaming through its landscapes.
The Scottish Highlands are a natural highlight, with the contrast between some of Britain’s tallest peaks and the smooth waters of the lochs below.
Wildlife watchers will have plenty to look out for, from the native red deer to golden eagles, and the adventurous have their choice of mountains and trails to hike.
Embrace adventure
Speaking of which, hiking isn’t the only adventure that awaits you in Scotland.
With plenty of guided activities available this holiday could be the perfect time to try your hands at pursuits like rock climbing, mountain biking or white-water rafting. All with the benefit of being set against the backdrop of some of the most stunning scenery in the UK.
For a slightly slower pace, you could take a boat out onto one of the lochs or even give paddleboarding a go. Outdoor activity centres also offer adventures on rope courses or zip lines, which are sure to excite kids who enjoy a bit of adrenaline.
Visit attractions
Aside from its castles, Scotland also has a wealth of varied museums that are well worth a visit. There’s the chance to learn more about so many different topics, from art and design to science and local history. With plenty of interactive exhibits to experience the kids should stay well entertained, while they’re learning something new!
In Edinburgh you can find the Royal Botanic Garden, which is considered one of the best botanic gardens in the world and is free to enter. The garden’s 72 acres offer a nice slice of peace and tranquillity, with a wealth of colourful plant life and species from around the world.
— There’s so much more than we have the space to go into here, so make sure to research other options for activities to try and locations to visit before you go. Whatever you include on your Scottish itinerary, a family getaway to the country is sure to be a major hit.
