The Best Toddler Friendly Travel Destinations in Scotland
Scotland is an enchanting destination for toddlers, offering a perfect blend of captivating landscapes, rich history, and family-friendly activities. From the stunning landscapes of the Highlands to vibrant cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland provides a backdrop of exploration for your little explorers. The welcoming atmosphere, coupled with the warmth of the Scottish people, ensures a memorable and enjoyable journey for families with toddlers, making Scotland an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and toddler-friendly comforts.
Below, check out the best toddler-friendly travel destinations in Scotland.
1. Isle of Skye
Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, the Isle of Skye offers outdoor activities for little kids, such as exploring fairy-tale-like scenery and visiting attractions like the Fairy Pools. In addition, the island's welcoming communities and diverse attractions make it an enjoyable destination for families with toddlers.
A visit to the Fairy Pools should be on top of your list of things to do with your toddlers. It's a series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls surrounded by magical landscapes, perfect for a scenic family hike. Another place worth visiting is the Quiraing, renowned for its stunning landscapes and easy walking trails suitable for your little ones.
Learn more about the island's history with a visit to the Skye Museum of Island Life and take your toddlers on a relaxing boat trip to spot wildlife and seabirds. Venture into scenic family walks along the Talisker Bay area, renowned for its scenic coastal views.
The Isle of Skye has plenty of family-friendly accommodations with amenities like spacious rooms and outdoor play areas, so choose to stay in these accommodations to guarantee a comfortable and enjoyable stay for everyone. When it's time to eat out, visit the island's charming villages, like Portree, offering delightful eateries with child-friendly options.
2. The Cairngorms
Your family-friendly holiday in the Cairngorms with your toddlers offers a mix of outdoor adventures and child-friendly attractions. Start by exploring the Cairngorms National Park and soak up its scenic landscapes through accessible trails suitable for family walks. Meanwhile, the Highland Wildlife Park near Kincraig allows children to see native and exotic animals in a natural setting.
Take your toddlers on a fun ride at the Cairngorm Mountain Funicular Railway. Enjoy panoramic views and easy access to mountainous terrain. Take family-friendly hikes around Loch Morlich. Enjoy its sandy beach and indulge in water activities with your little adventurers.
For a nostalgic steam train journey through the picturesque Spey Valley, visit the Strathspey Railway in Aviemore. The Landmark Forest Adventure Park in Carrbridge offers a variety of rides, play areas, and a treetop trail for little ones.
Venture into the Rothiemurchus Estate, offering nature walks, wildlife watching, and the opportunity to experience traditional Scottish activities.
Don't forget to pack essentials for your outdoor excursions with your toddlers, including snacks and clothing suitable for changing weather. The Cairngorms' natural beauty and family-oriented attractions create a memorable and enjoyable holiday for you and your little adventurers.
3. Edinburgh
Embarking on a family-friendly holiday in Edinburgh with little kids ensures a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun activities. Begin by exploring the iconic Edinburgh Castle, where you can immerse in the city's rich heritage. Check out the adjacent Royal Mile, with its charming shops and street performers.
Edinburgh's vast green spaces, such as Princes Street Gardens, provide ample room for picnics and play. Stop by the Edinburgh Zoo, home to fascinating wildlife, including some quirky penguins.
Visit the dynamic and interactive Our Dynamic Earth Museum, where your toddlers can engage in hands-on exhibits about the Earth's natural processes. The National Museum of Scotland is another family-friendly gem, offering diverse exhibits and a dedicated kids' zone.
Enjoy a lovely stroll along Holyrood Park, home to the striking Arthur's Seat, offering family-friendly hikes and panoramic city views. For a dose of magic, take your kids to discover the enchanting world of the Museum of Childhood on the Royal Mile.
Edinburgh also boasts some excellent group accommodations for a family getaway in Scotland, offering a comfortable and convenient stay for you and your toddler. From spacious self-catering apartments with kid-friendly amenities to beautiful cottages set in picturesque surroundings, these lodgings cater to the specific needs of families travelling with toddlers.
Edinburgh's efficient public transport allows for convenient travel with your toddlers. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Scottish meal together, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable family holiday in the historic and picturesque Scottish capital.
4. Inverness
A family-friendly holiday in Inverness with your toddler promises a delightful mix of fun adventures and cultural experiences. The city offers family-friendly attractions like Inverness Castle, Ness Islands, and the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. With plenty of outdoor spaces, play areas, and interactive exhibits, Inverness offer a welcoming environment for families with little kids.
Visit the Inverness Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the city's panoramic views, providing both historical insights and stunning views of the river Ness.
Venture into Ness Islands, a picturesque group of islands connected by suspension bridges, offering walking trails and play areas for children. A boat trip on Loch Ness is a must, with the possibility of spotting Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness Monster, adding an extra layer of excitement for your little adventurers.
Take a short drive to the Culloden Battlefield, where you can learn about Scottish history while the younger ones can run around in the vast open spaces.
With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions, Inverness creates a memorable family holiday, blending exploration, education, and outdoor play.
5. Perth
Promising a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Inverness is one of Scotland's best toddler-friendly travel destinations. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the Inverness Castle is the best place to begin your adventure. It provides historical insights and stunning views of the river Ness.
Explore the gorgeous Branklyn Garden, with its colourful plants and play areas that your little adventurers will love to explore. Meanwhile, the Perth Leisure Pool provides water fun, including slides and interactive features.
Spend some time in the South Inch Park, offering vast open spaces and a play area. Head to the Perth Museum and Art Gallery, with engaging exhibits suitable for toddlers. Enjoy a boat trip on the river Tay, offering a different perspective of Perth.
Given its numerous fun attractions and welcoming atmosphere, Perth ensures a delightful family holiday with your toddlers, blending cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and entertaining activities.