With castles, lochs and fairy-tale scenery, Scotland offers something for every member of the family. This guide covers the best cities for family holidays in Scotland and tips on where to stay.
Edinburgh: History and Legends
Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum and the Royal Mile are full of history children love, and Dynamic Earth is a great science stop for families. See hotels in Edinburgh; smaller stays such as EdinB&B are available too.
Glasgow: Museums and Parks
Free museums, notably Kelvingrove Art Gallery and the Riverside Museum of transport, make Glasgow a budget-friendly family stop. Options: hotels in Glasgow.
Inverness: Gateway to the Highlands
Close to Loch Ness and the Highlands, Inverness suits families after nature and adventure. Options: hotels in Inverness.
Accommodation Tips for Families
- Check for family rooms or connecting rooms; apartments with a kitchen are practical for longer stays.
- Add any extra bed or cot request to your booking notes.
- See whether breakfast is included; it makes mornings with children easier.
- Book early for summer and the Edinburgh Festival in August.
When to Go and Getting Around
May to September is the best time for a family holiday in Scotland, with long days and better weather for outdoor activities. Even in summer the weather can change quickly, so pack waterproofs and layers. Popular places get busier during the Scottish school holidays, which run from late June to mid-August.
Edinburgh and Glasgow are around an hour apart by train, and there are direct trains to Inverness from both. For the Highlands, Loch Lomond and the Isle of Skye, hiring a car gives you the most flexibility. Breaking long journeys into short stages and staying at least two nights in each place makes travelling with children easier.
A Sample Week
Spend the first three days in Edinburgh with the castle, the National Museum and a walk up Arthur’s Seat. Then take the train to Glasgow for the Riverside Museum and Kelvingrove. Finish in Inverness with a boat trip on Loch Ness and the Highland scenery, a route that balances city sights with the outdoors.
Booking
On Londonos, enter your dates and party size to see suitable rooms; your card is not charged now; the amount is taken once your booking is confirmed. For more on exploring Scotland, the official VisitScotland guide is useful.