Scotland: A Destination for families
Scotland is an incredible destination for families, offering a perfect blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and exciting outdoor activities. From exploring ancient castles to embarking on unique adventures along the coast, there’s something for everyone in the family. Whether you’re wandering through the streets of Edinburgh or venturing out into the Highlands, Scotland promises an unforgettable experience. At Intrepidus Outdoors, we specialize in providing exciting family-friendly outdoor activities, such as coasteering, which are sure to make your Scottish adventure one to remember!
Family-friendly transport in Scotland
When it comes to getting around Scotland, you’ll find plenty of convenient options, whether you’re renting a car for ultimate flexibility or using public transport to relax while enjoying the scenic views.
1. Car Hire in Scotland:
Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to explore Scotland at your own pace. With a rental car, you’ll have the freedom to discover Scotland’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged beauty of the Highlands to the charming seaside villages. Whether you’re driving through the picturesque countryside or along the famous North Coast 500 route, having a car ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey for the whole family.
2. Public Transport – Trains and Buses:
For those who prefer not to drive, Scotland’s public transport system is well-connected and efficient. Trains and buses make it easy to travel between cities and across the country. The famous West Highland Line offers scenic views from the train window, and for families visiting Edinburgh, public buses and trams are a hassle-free way to navigate the city.
Must-See Attractions and Things to Do in Scotland for Families
Scotland is packed with family-friendly attractions that will spark the imagination and leave everyone in awe. Here are some of the top things to do when visiting with your family:
1. Loch Ness and the Legend of the Loch Ness Monster:
A visit to Loch Ness is a must for families seeking a combination of mystery and natural beauty. Explore the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, and take a boat tour across the loch where you can delve into the legendary story of the Loch Ness Monster. The legend of Nessie has captivated people of all ages for generations, and you can even try spotting her yourself as you take in the stunning scenery.
2. Edinburgh Castle and Historical Attractions:
Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, and there are plenty of engaging experiences for families. Start with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which sits on an extinct volcano and offers panoramic views of the city. Inside the castle, explore the Crown Jewels, learn about Scotland’s royal past, and let the kids immerse themselves in the fascinating stories of the castle’s history.
3. The Royal Mile and Edinburgh’s Old Town:
Wandering the cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town is like stepping back in time. The Royal Mile, stretching from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is lined with shops, street performers, and hidden alleys that invite exploration. Be sure to visit The Real Mary King’s Close, where you can take a guided tour through Edinburgh’s hidden underground streets and learn about the city’s fascinating past.
4. Arthur’s Seat:
For a family-friendly hike that offers spectacular views of the city, head to Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano located in the heart of Edinburgh. This relatively easy hike is perfect for families and provides sweeping vistas of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding landscape. It’s a great way to connect with nature while still being close to the heart of the city.
5. The National Museum of Scotland:
This museum is a fantastic stop for families visiting Edinburgh. With exhibits ranging from dinosaurs and Scottish history to science and technology, the National Museum of Scotland offers something for all ages. The interactive exhibits are particularly popular with children, and there’s even a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the city.
6. The Edinburgh Dungeon:
For families with older children looking for a bit of spooky fun, the Edinburgh Dungeon is a must-visit. This interactive attraction brings Scotland’s dark history to life with thrilling and slightly terrifying experiences. You’ll encounter some of the most notorious figures from Scotland’s past, from witches to murderers, in a way that’s sure to both entertain and educate.
7. Edinburgh’s Festivals:
Edinburgh is known for its vibrant festivals, which often feature events suitable for families. The Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe offer performances ranging from theatre to comedy and music, many of which are specifically designed with children and families in mind. The Edinburgh International Book Festival is another great family-friendly event where kids can meet authors, enjoy storytelling sessions, and take part in creative workshops.
Family-friendly Outdoor Activities
Scotland’s natural beauty makes it the perfect destination for families who love outdoor adventures. At Intrepidus Outdoors, we specialize in offering thrilling experiences for families looking to explore Scotland in a fun and active way.

1. Coasteering Adventures
One of our most popular family activities is coasteering, an exhilarating experience that involves climbing along coastal cliffs, exploring hidden caves, and jumping into the sea from varying heights. Our expert guides ensure the experience is safe, exciting, and tailored to the needs of your family, making it a perfect adventure for kids and adults alike.
2. Walking Adventures:
Scotland is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy walking with children, offering a wide variety of accessible and scenic routes. For families with younger kids, the country boasts numerous lowland walks that are gentle and easy to navigate, providing stunning views without the challenge of steep inclines. Many of these walks are well-maintained and suitable for strollers, ensuring that even the littlest adventurers can join in.
The National Trust for Scotland manages a number of beautiful trails, such as those around the Inverewe Garden in the Highlands or Fife’s East Neuk, both offering short, picturesque walks perfect for children. For families with older children seeking a little more adventure, pathed hill walks like those in the Pentland Hills Regional Park near Edinburgh offer manageable ascents and rewarding vistas at the top. These walks provide a great introduction to hillwalking, allowing families to immerse themselves in nature while keeping the experience fun and achievable for everyone.
Why choose Scotland for your Family Holiday?
Scotland’s combination of history, myth, and adventure makes it the ideal destination for families looking for an exciting, memorable vacation. From exploring ancient castles to uncovering the mysteries of Loch Ness, Scotland offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories. With its stunning landscapes, fascinating cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities, Scotland ensures that there’s something for everyone, no matter your family’s interests.
At Intrepidus Outdoors, we’re committed to helping families experience the best of Scotland’s great outdoors through thrilling activities like coasteering. Our expert guides ensure you can enjoy an exciting yet safe adventure tailored to your family’s needs.
Intrepidus Outdoors is an adventure tours and outdoor experience providers, based in Edinburgh, Scotland, that specialises in private and open canyoning, coasteering, mountain biking and hill walking tours.
My Adventure Edinburgh (Part of the Intrepidus Group) is an outdoor tours provider that specialises in canyoning, coasteering, canoeing and hillwalking tours. As well as delivering these adventurous experiences across Scotland, My Adventure is also a provider of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions where we run bronze, silver and gold level awards for young people.
If you are looking for additional information about adventures from Edinburgh, we have published a number of blogs:
- Tour Information: National Three Peaks Challenge here
- Adventures in Edinburgh here
- Protecting the Scottish Highlands: Responsible Tourism here
- Top 10 Vegan Restaurants in Edinburgh here
- Ultimate Scottish Roadtrip: 3 Day Guide here
- Top tips for backpacking Scotland here
- Best Budget Hotels and Hostels Edinburgh here
- Hen Party Adventures Edinburgh: here
- Stag Party Outdoor Adventures Edinburgh Essentials: here
If you haven’t already seen it, check out the our Trip Advisor, Youtube channeland check us out on Visit Scotland.