Holidays in the British Isles have been gaining in popularity in recent years. In particular, family holidays in Scotland can offer something for everyone. Scotland has a unique and proud history and is a place that everyone should try and visit. From cities packed with culture and entertainment to rugged mountains and vast lochs, it’s easy to be overwhelmed with the choice on offer.
For those living elsewhere in the United Kingdom, it’s fairly trivial to travel to Scotland. Even if you reside elsewhere, such as the United States or continental Europe, catching a flight to Scotland isn’t super difficult. So if you want to stay in the best family hotels Scotland can offer, then read on for a guide to the best bits.
5 Perfect Locations for Family Holidays in Scotland
1. Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland is one of the most beautiful, vibrant and unique cities anywhere in the world. With possiblly the highest concentration of luxury hotels in Scotland to choose from, the sights and goings-on in Edinburgh are vast and varied. A stroll along the Royal Mile and up to the Castle is a must and the many cultural activities that abound will be sure to keep everyone interested. Kids will certainly enjoy the ghost tours, which many adults actually tend to find scarier! There is plenty of very high class shopping and if you happen to visit during the festival in August, there is quite literally non-stop action.
2. Loch Lomond
Regarded as one of the most attractive of Scotland’s numerous lochs, Loch Lomond is a real pull for visitors to the west coast. In summer the loch is great for water sports and its surrounding countryside has an abundance of activities ranging from golf to mountain biking.
Loch Lomond is located in the southern part of Scotland, so it’s super easy to get to from England. It’s about a 4 1/2 hour drive, which will take you right through Glasgow.
3. The Highlands
While they are a good distance from attractions such as the cities in the south of country, many people’s reason for visiting Scotland is to visit the Highlands. Packed full of clan history and containing possibly the most stunning mountain scenery anywhere in the UK, they are perfect for young and old alike.
The Cairngorms are a great place to visit, with much of the local tourism industry geared to adventure sports and outdoor activities. Furthermore, Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis is a peak that can be climbed by even children as young as 9 or 10 – a great family challenge!
The Highlands have experienced a rise in travel since the Outlander book and television series have convinced nearly everyone of the (ahem) visual benefits of this area!!!
4. The Firth of Clyde
This west coast bay is best visited in early summer before all the midges come out and when there is a chance of good weather. Rolling inlets and gorgeous coastline dominate this part of the world, which is best explored by boat. There are many places where they can be chartered, however for the less adventurous there are lots of skippered cruises around the islands and bays.
5. Glasgow
Perhaps not the top of everyone’s list when it comes to visiting Scotland, Glasgow has a rather different cultural reputation than that of Edinburgh. However, it does have a lot to offer and these days has made great strides in jettisoning some of its less glamorous past. It has a very well-noted music scene, great for adults and popular attractions for youngsters include Glasgow Science Centre and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
Hopefully this post has given you an idea of the different areas you should consider for family holidays in Scotland. It is such a varied nation, packed with history, friendly people, and beautiful scenery.
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