100 THINGS TO DO WITH THE KIDS
The summer holidays hold no fear with Scottish Field's definitive activity guide
1. Mull Aquarium, Isle of Mull
With a seasonal display of local marine life that is returned to the sea every few weeks, no two visits will be the same. The events programme is sure to keep the whole family entertained, from feeding displays to craft activities and even daily touchpool demonstrations. Open daily 9.30am-5pm. Day tickets cost £5.50 for adults and £4 for children. Tel: 01688 302876, www.mullaquarium.co.uk
2. The Time Capsule Waterpark, North Lanarkshire
Be ready for a fast-paced whirlpool of fun when you enter the Time Capsule. The pool features a Tornado Tantrum, a Tsunami wave pool and Storm Chasers, made only for the keenest swimmers. For parents with small children, there’s Cove Island, a calmer environment for the wee ones to enjoy the water. Open Mon-Fri 3pm-8pm and Sat-Sun 10am8pm. Admission costs £3.20 for threeand four-year-olds, £5.75 for children over five and £7.60 for adults. Tel: 01236 449572, www.nlleisure.co.uk/ venues/time-capsule
3. Mariner Leisure Centre, Falkirk
The large pool has a beach area with wave machine and your little ones can go crazy on the water slides. There is also a baby pool as well as a games hall and squash courts. Open daily 9am-10pm. Prices for swimming are £1.90 for children and £3.95 for adults. Tel: 01324 503750, www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/venues/ mariner-leisure-centre
4. Loch Lomond Faerie Trail
Explore the woodland, by the pretty village of Luss, on Loch Lomond Faerie Trail. Handmade wooden faerie houses are nestled in the treetops and a troll is waiting in the swamp. An activity booklet will guide you around their magical home. Tickets are £2 for adults and £3 for children. Tel: 01436 860988, www.lochlomondfaerietrail.com
5. St Andrews Aquarium
Fun, educational, and positively fascinating for everyone, St Andrews aquarium has a wide variety of fish, including piranhas and lionfish, which have venom in their spines. You will also be able to visit adorable meerkats, playful penguins, scary sharks, and if you’re brave enough, a number of different spiders and glow-in-thedark scorpions. Open daily 10am6pm. All day passes cost £11 for adults and £8.50 for children. 01334 474786, www. standrewsaquarium.co.uk
6. Deep Sea World, Fife
If you want to offer your youngsters the thrill of a lifetime, head to Deep Sea World and have them dive with a real shark. In addition to shark dives, Deep Sea World offers fascinating aquarium exhibits and other educational activities like the Underwater Safari, in the UK’s longest underwater tunnel, that will allow you and your children to explore and learn about the magical world of marine life. Open 10am-5pm on weekdays and 10am-6pm on weekends Tel: 01383 411880, www. deepseaworld. com
7. Sea Life Aquarium, Loch Lomond
Located on the shores of Loch Lomond, this fascinating aquarium offers countless hours of educational entertainment for children of all ages, as well as adults. With more than 1,500 creatures to see up close, including otters, rays, clownfish, turtles, sharks and seahorses, Sea Life is sure to be an experience with nature that the kids will never forget. They also have rockpools, where children can touch starfish...if they dare! Open daily 10am-5pm. Tickets cost £13.95 for adults and £9.95 for children.Tel: 01389 721500, www.visitsealife.com/loch-lomond
8. The Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh
Bring the family along to Britannia this summer. From sitting on the Captain’s chair and trying on the crew’s uniform, to learning how to tie nautical knots, you’ll enjoy exploring Britannia’s five decks with a free audio guide handset, including a special children’s version. Spot Clarence the Corgi and his friends. Open daily 9.30am-4.30pm. Tickets cost £16 for adults, £8.50 for children and under fives go free. Tel: 0131 555 5566, www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk
9. The Sea Life Sanctuary, Oban, Argyll and Bute
This deep sea sensation is educational and rewarding. Kids can visit rescued seals, otters and baby turtles. There is even a seal hospital. Your clever cookies will be taught all about the wonders of our oceans and could also enjoy a boat trip, a nature trail or visit to the adventure playground. Open 10am5pm every day with prices starting at £9.38 per person. An adult and toddler ticket is available for £9.20. Tel: 01631 720386, www.visitsealife.com/oban/
10. Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway
The short train ride from Bo’ness to Manuel is a trip back in time. On board there’s a buffet with sweets, and when they get back to the station, the kids will have a chance to be conductors themselves at the Gauge ‘O’ Model Railway. Times and prices vary. Tel: 01506 822298, www.bkrailway.co.uk
11. Kerr’s Miniature Railway, Arbroath
With two steam trains and seven trains all together, your little ones will have a rail of a time. The fun doesn’t stop when the ride is over, as there is also a nearby play park, beach and a gift shop where you can purchase toy trains. The trains run SatSun 11am-4pm (weather permitting) during the school holidays. Return tickets are just £1 for children and £1.50 for adults. Tel: 01241 874074, www.kerrsminiaturerailway.co.uk
12. Jacobite Steam Train, Fort William
One of the most genuine Harry Potter experiences Scotland has to offer, a ride on the Jacobite is truly magical. All aboard the Hogwarts Express will be treated to astonishing views on the way from Fort William to Mallaig: Loch Morar, Loch Nevis and of course, the Glenfinnan viaduct. The service runs twice a day from Fort William and twice more from Mallaig on the return. Tel: 0844 850468, www. westcoastrailways.co.uk/jacobite
13. Macdonald Lochanhully Resort, Carrbridge
A short journey through the woodland and open heather-filled moorland of the Cairngorms National Park and guests will find a rural retreat. Located in the small village of Carrbridge, the traditional woodland cabins located around a small loch offer guests a secluded escape, perfectly located for exploring the national park. Tel: 0344 879 9102, resorts.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ resorts/lochanhully
14. The Lanrick Challenge Mini, Doune
The Lanrick Challenge takes place on 8 August and is a charitable event for the Sandpiper Trust and the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance, both dedicated to saving lives in Scotland. There is a 2k wilderness mini challenge for children aged five to 12. Entry costs £20 per child, with free entry for adults accompanying children. Tel: 01786 841 684, www.lanrickchallenge.com
15. Tree Top Adventure, Go Ape Aberfoyle
Take your mini Tarzans for a swing around the forests of Stirlingshire! As long as they are supervised by an adult (not one for parents afraid of heights) ten- to 15-year-olds are welcome to experience the adventures of obstacles, jumps and zip wires 46m above the ground. Open most days, although booking in advance is required. Tickets are priced from £22 for children and from £28 for adults (price is subject to timings). Tel: 0845 6439215, goape.co.uk/adventures/ treetopadventure
16. Treezone, Aviemore
Treezone offers tons of fun for anyone over seven years old and 1.1m tall. The Treecreeper course involves 12 obstacles, as you go from Fortress Gangplank through Postman’s Walk, over the Indiana Jones bridge, and try to make your way across the Balance Beam and the Hanging Vines back to the starting point. During the summer it’s open every day from morning till late afternoon. Tickets cost £27 for adults and £20 for under 18s. Tel: 01479 811426, www.treezone.co.uk
17. The Climbing Academy, Glasgow
The Climbing Academy is perfect for climbers of all levels aged over five. There are taster sessions for beginners, with opportunities to improve and even make it to the academy’s team, which competes nationally. Open Mon-Fri 10am10pm and Sat-Sun 9am-7pm. Prices vary depending on age and activity, and subscription offers are also available. Tel: 0141 429 6331, www.theclimbingacademy. com
18. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris
Sometimes we forget that Scotland is home to some of the most breath-taking beaches in the world. Named one of the best beaches in the UK by the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, this stunning sandy beach located on the Isle of Harris boasts crystal clear waters. There are also fantastic nearby family activities such hill walking, sand dunes and cycling. Tel: 01880 820132
19. Dornoch Beach, Sutherland
You’d be hard pressed to find a better place to spend a nice day out with your family when the weather is generous this summer. Shallow swimming is safe so take your little ones for a dip, or sit down on the sand to build a sandcastle. Some amenities are available nearby, but come prepared with provisions. Tel: 01862 810533, www.visitdornoch.com/enjoy-indornoch/location/dornoch-beach
20. Ecoventures, Cromarty
Take a boat ride in the open waters of the Moray Firth and spot the local colony of Bottlenose Dolphins with the whole family. The boat trips offer thrilling wildlife watching and captivating scenery. Trips last two hours aboard the rigid inflatable Saorsa, and tickets start at £23pp. Tel: 01381 600323, www.ecoventures.co.uk
21. Scottish Sea Bird Centre, North Berwick
Over the summer, the centre will be hosting an Animal Avengers superhero event, two puppet shows, an interactive science show, 3D films a wildlife theatre and more! The centre also offers boat tours where you could spot amazing sealife. Open Mon-Thur 10am-6pm. Tickets cost £8.95 for adults and £4.95 for children. You can also purchase a family ticket for £25. Tel: 01620890202, www.seabird.org
22. Seaprobe Atlantis, Skye
A trip on this semisubmersible glass bottom boat is a great opportunit. You’ll have the chance to look for seals, otters, jellyfish, or even see a WWII shipwreck. Prices vary per age group and trip duration. Tel: 01471 822716, www.seaprobeatlantis.com
23. Scottish Maritime Museum, Irvine
The museum offers three guided tours each day, providing a great opportunity to learn about Scotland’s shipbuilding and maritime history. You’ll be able to explore the Cathedral of Engineering, the old shipyard building, and some of Scotland’s oldest vessels. Little ones will have the chance to sail a model boat on the outdoor boating pool. Open daily 10am-5pm. Admission £7.50 for adults, and up to three children enter free with each adult. Tel: 01294 278283, www.scottishmaritimemuseum.org/ irvine-museum
24. Monster Activities, Inverness-shire
Set your little monsters free to explore activities like archery, water rafting, canoeing and abseiling. For the more daring ones, there is clay pigeon shooting, and tomahawk and knife throwing (both under strict safety regulations). Prices vary depending on activity. Tel: 07710 540398 www.monsteractivities.com
25. Funworld Leisure Play Centre, Greenock
One of the largest family entertainment centres in Scotland, Funworld welcomes children of all ages for a world of fun. You’ll find a soft play area for toddlers, a larger area with slides and ropes for your little pirates, as well as Laser Matrix, the venue’s multi-level laser tag arena. Open daily 9.30am-6.30pm. All-inclusive passes cost £6.95 for adults and £3 for children. Tel: 01475 783003, www.funworld-leisure.co.uk
26. J.M. Barrie’s Birthplace, Kirriemuir
If you have little dreamers who are fans of the Peter Pan movie, or who like hearing about Peter and Wendy before they go to sleep, the author’s birthplace is a fascinating place to visit. Learn about the origins of Wendy’s name and discover the secrets of the Peter Pan statue. Open Thur to Mon 11am-4pm. Adult tickets cost £6.50 and family tickets cost £17. Tel: 0131 458 0200, www.nts.org.uk/ visit/places/j-m-barries-birthplace
27. Scotland Street School Museum, Glasgow
Take your children on a trip down memory lane. At the museum you can show them around Scottish classrooms from different periods of the last century. You can even dress up and pretend you’re a Victorian pupil. Open daily 10am-5pm, with Fri and Sun opening at 11am. Free entry. Tel: 0141 287 0500, www.glasgowlife. org.uk/museums/venues/scotlandstreet-school-museum
28. Snow Factor, Renfrew
Go against the grain this summer and practice your winter sports. Snow Factor features an indoor snow slope, the longest of its kind in the UK, where you can ski or sledge. They offer lessons for first-timers, and there is also a snow wall for avid climbers. Parents can enjoy a cool experience at the venue’s Ice Bar. Open Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, Sat-Sun 9am-10pm. Prices vary per activity. Tel: 0871 2225672, www.snowfactor.com
29. The Cocoa Bean Company, Twynholm
Take your children of all ages for the most delicious workshops around. They’ll get to make and decorate chocolate slabs, marshmallow treats and shaky shape animals and are free to take them all home. There’s also a factory shop with over 100 chocolate varieties to choose from. Open daily 9am-3pm, and open till late on Tue-Thurs during school holidays. Tel: 01557 860608, www.thecocoabeancompany.com/ twynholm
30. The Falkirk Wheel
You’ll have no shortage of activities to choose from in Falkirk. The Falkirk Wheel is connected to the Scottish canal network, which offers amazing water activities like boat trips, fishing on the canal banks, cycling and paddling. There are also activity hubs for watersports and bowling. Open daily 10am-5.30pm with several boat trips scheduled each day. Tel: 01324 619888, www.scottishcanals.co.uk/falkirk-wheel
31. Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle
One of the most iconic castles in Scotland, Eilean Donan is in such a picturesque location that the trip there is an experience in itself. The castle is a magical place with a rich history that will fascinate teenagers and adults alike. Open daily 10am6pm. Admission costs £7.50 for adults and £4 for children over five. Tel: 01599 555202, www.eileandonancastle.com
32. Water of Leith, Edinburgh
Every Tuesday and Thursday in July and until 7 August, the visitor centre at the Water of Leith is organising events for children between the ages of four and 12. All events run from 2pm to 4pm and cost £5 per child, and free for the accompanying adult. Booking is essential. Tel: 0131 455 7367, www.waterofleith.org.uk/summer
33. Skara Brae, Orkney
A 5,000-year-old village uncovered by a storm in 1850 offers a rare glimpse into Scottish life long before the Egyptians built their pyramids. Walk in the prehistoric village, visit a complete replica house to get a feel for what life was like and see various artefacts in the visitor centre. Open daily 9.30am-5.30pm. Tickets cost £7.50 for adults, £4.50 for children aged 5-15 and free for under fives. Tel: 0131 668 8600, www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/ skara-brae
34. National Mining Museum, Edinburgh
The museum is located just south Edinburgh, in a Victorian-era colliery. Marvel at the intricate machinery and structure of the place and learn all about the industry’s past and importance. There are several tours available and prices vary. Open daily 10am5pm. Tel: 0131 663 7519, www. nationalminingmuseum.com
35. Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Carrbridge
Take a ride on the Wild Water Coaster or the Runaway Timber Train, get lost in the labyrinth or enter the Bamboozeleum, where you’ll find infinity rooms, distorting mirrors, and puzzles for the family to solve. Open daily 10am-6pm. Tickets cost £20.70 for adults and £18.60 for children. Tel: 0800 7313446, www.landmarkpark.co.uk
36. Wonder World Soft Play, Kirkcaldy
Perfect for toddlers, the venue also has go-karts and an astro turf football pitch, so it’s a great place for the whole family. Open daily 10am-5pm. During the holidays entry costs £8.95 for children aged one to 14, with free entry for under ones and adults. Tel: 01592 802343, www.wonderworldsoftplay.co.uk/ kirkcaldy
37. Heads of Ayr Park, Alloway
Plenty of fun for children of all ages, particularly under 12s. There is a toddler zone with slides and see-saws, an indoor area with giant slides, and an outdoor area with mini diggers and excavators for your young builders. As well as animals for cuddles. Open daily 10am-5pm. Day tickets cost £11 for adults and £9.50 for children. Tel: 01292 441 210, www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk