Ideas for Free and Low-Cost Activities in Scotland

28.07.2024 - 04:41 / breakingtravelnews.com

Heading into the summer holidays it can be tricky to keep children entertained with new ideas. With searches for ‘free family days out’ surging by 123% in just the past week, families are looking for exciting days out to keep young ones happy whilst watching the pennies.

Scotland offers an abundance of free and low-cost attractions that make it an ideal destination for family day outings. From engaging museums that blend education with entertainment, to vibrant summer festivals brimming with lively atmosphere, there is something to captivate every member of the family.

To provide inspiration for budget-friendly family activities and encourage families to enjoy a day out, VisitScotland has curated a list of attractions that cater to all ages. With Scotland’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, these free attractions give families an opportunity to create lasting memories while experiencing the best of Scotland.

The Helix: Home of the Kelpies, Falkirk

Standing at an impressive 100ft tall and weighing over 300 tonnes each, the magnificent Kelpies in Falkirk’s Helix Park are the world’s largest equine sculptures. Created by artist Andy Scott a decade ago, these stunning statues have become iconic landmarks, modelled after the Clydesdale horses Duke and Baron.

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Visiting The Kelpies makes for a fantastic free family activity. It’s well worth exploring the surrounding area too, with idyllic walks that run alongside the canal, and a number of winding pathways that navigate through lush greenery and enchanting woodlands. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, or a refreshing cycle, the Heart of Falkirk Trail is particularly perfect for families.

Make a day of the visit, drop by the cafe for lunch, and perhaps extend a visit to the area and stop by the nearby Callendar House (free to visit).

Where to stay: Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa, Falkirk.

How to get there: Scotrail trains (Falkirk is approximately 25 minutes from both Edinburgh and Glasgow; up to four children can travel for just £1 return each with an adult paying full price, see here). The Kelpies can be reached by FirstBus, or a 45-minute walk from Falkirk Grahamston station. Parking from £2.20 if travelling by car. With a ScotRail Kids for a Quid ticket, children can visit numerous attractions for free with a standard adult entry, including Edinburgh Zoo, Camera Obscura, Royal Yacht Britannia and more.

Perth Museum, Perth

The Perth Museum, now open and free to visit, is perfect for a family outing, especially if the weather doesn’t allow for an outdoors adventure. Following a £26.5 million redevelopment project, the museum offers a world-class cultural and heritage experience that brings the rich history of