When you’re planning a UK staycation for you and your little ones, it’s tempting to think towards the south coast of England. There are beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and, generally speaking, the weather does come up trumps. Yet, rather than heading towards Cornish coasts, consider heading north, way past the English border, into Scotland.
As we’re literally and figurately connected to the Scottish mainland and isles, we often forget that it’s a completely distinct country. A visit offers much in the way of cultural discoveries, giving children the chance to experience the rich history and local customs that are entwined in the Scottish way of life.
When you’ve done all the world-famous landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, Ben Nevis, and John O’Groats, you don’t need to draw a line under your itinerary. Instead, check out some more contemporary Scottish attractions, including the following favourites…
Contemporary family Scottish attractions
Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition
Feed your youngsters’ imagination at the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition in Inverness. As your family strolls through the seven themed areas of the five-star attraction, you will uncover all there is to know about Loch Ness, from its beginnings to the modern day.
Steeped in mythology and mystical accounts of the famous mysterious creature, the Loch Ness Monster, the attraction offers its own ‘edutainment’ that’s suitable for all ages. From Operation Deepscan to exploring the Loch Ness Machan submarine, kids will be keen to discover if there’s any truth behind the ancient tales.
The Cocoa Bean Company
At the heart of Twynholm of Dumfries and Galloway, The Cocoa Bean Company is a child-friendly, tasty attraction that invites children to create their own confectionary. Making masterpieces from cocoa isn’t easy, but with the guidance of the centre’s friendly team, your youngsters will decorate chocolate slabs, design delicious shaped treats, and make their very own marshmallow.
Suitable for children of all ages from 2-18 years, you’re never too old for chocolate. If you’re not full-to-brimming from all the sweet treats, the indoor play area will allow young tots to blow off some steam while you grab a bite of something savoury.
National Museum of Flight
As Scotland’s national aviation museum, situated at East Fortune Airfield, you can expect a trip to the National Museum of Flight to be an exhilarating family trip out.
As a five-star visitor attraction, there’s plenty to do and see here, as you head off on a journey of discovery, soaring through the history of aviation, from World War I to more contemporary times. The exhibition showcases myriad aircraft, as well as interactive displays and ‘supersonic experiences’. One for budding engineers, girls and boys alike.
Dynamic Earth
Perched perfectly against Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, Dynamic Earth is yet another of Scotland’s five-star visitor attractions. Telling the story of planet Earth, from the Big Bang up to today, families witness our natural history first hand, as an immersive 4D experience.
From Polar ice-caps and erupting ferocious volcanoes to the deepest, darkest of our ocean depths, Dynamic Earth will get you up close and personal to striking natural wonders and curious creatures, in a way you never thought possible.
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