Keeping the kids busy and you and the other adults entertained on your Scottish staycation is a balancing act. Whether it be things to do when it’s raining with the kids, or great days out with the family near Inverness, the area has some great ‘attractions near me’.
With Scotland’s attractions now welcoming back visitors, Inverness Taxis rounded up some suggestions on family days out near Inverness to keep the kids and the grown-ups happy!
LANDMARK FOREST ADVENTURE PARK, CARRBRIDGE, AVIEMORE
Winner of the “Perfect Family Day Out” by Visit Scotland and The Daily Mail, Landmark offers outstanding attractions with its special blend of rides and family-friendly activities.
Nowhere else can you zoom through the trees on a family-friendly roller-coaster, come face to face with a 20 foot T-rex, and get the chance to explore an amazing tropical hot-house with hundreds of stunning butterflies and exotic flowers?
There are loads of different attractions for every taste at Landmark, making it a great activity for kids in the Highlands. From rope swings and “skydives”, to puzzles and illusions and many other activities for kids and big kids alike – Landmark has something for everyone on a family days out near Inverness.
Due to COVID-19, booking ahead is essential. Visit their website for more information on the Highland attractions and to book.
Where is Landmark Forest Adventure Park?
HIGHLAND WILDLIFE PARK, KINGUSSIE
Discover Scottish wildlife and endangered animals in the stunning setting of the Cairngorms National Park. The Highland Wildlife Park has a wide and diverse range of animals to see and to learn about. You can see beautiful native species such as the Scottish Wildcat, as well as more exotic animals like the Amur Tiger and their majestic Polar Bears.
Before the pandemic, the park held many different events, talks and activities concerning the animals. This schedule should return as the Scottish Government relaxes restrictions, but you can still view the majority of the animals either from your car or up close, so don’t miss out on one of the Highlands’ wildest family days out near Inverness!
Book tickets for your adventure ahead of time here to avoid disappointment.
Where is the Highland Wildlife Park?
TREASURES OF THE EARTH, FORT WILLIAM
If you or the kids love gems and precious stones this place is not to be missed! Treasures of the Earth is set to be a fun day out for the whole family. Here you’ll find one of Europe’s largest collections of Crystals, Gemstones & Fossils.
From dinosaur fossils, rubies, sapphires, diamonds and emeralds, you will be amazed at the precious stones on show.
The Ultraviolet Cave is a stunning attraction where crystals and stones will magically change colour under UV light, giving you a light show you’ll never forget. This is one of the top things to do with the kids when it’s raining or if they love a bit of geology. A very educational day out with the kids – and fun!
Where is Treasures of the Earth?
LOCH NESS CENTRE & EXHIBITION, INVERNESS
Loch Ness is the fabled home of Scotland’s most famous monster – Nessie! The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition puts the legend of the loch at centre stage. Its hi-tech multi-media presentation will lead you through 500 million years of history, myth and mystery.
We can’t guarantee you’ll spot the infamous Loch Ness Monster on your trip to Loch Ness, but the Loch Ness Centre will give you an insight into the loch’s wider significance. The centre specialises in exploring the sightings, hoaxes, and the enduring mystery of Loch Ness.
There are plenty of family-friendly activities at the centre. Education and entertainment are at the heart of the children’s activities and it is the theatrical style, the constant changes of scene, and the touch and feel of authentic expedition equipment which appeal to most children. Plus, under 6’s go free!
Book your tickets here.
Where is the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition?
CYCLE THE CALEDONIAN CANAL & RIVER NESS, INVERNESS
Why not rent a bike or hire an electric bike in Inverness to explore a popular Inverness cycle path? Great family days out near Inverness for the whole family.
The Ness Islands are a popular place for locals and tourists alike to walk, cycle and relax in nature. The forested network of little islands is connected by a series of charming footbridges.
Cycle through the pleasant Ness Islands with the family and onto Whin Park – a great activity for kids in Inverness! There you can enjoy the tranquil boating pond and the excitement of the miniature railway! The kids can muck about on comprehensive park equipment and afterwards get a delicious ice cream for the family.
Beyond Whin Park is the Caledonian Canal where pleasure boats and working boats chug along at a snail’s pace. The canal connects the Moray Firth with four major lochs along 60 miles of natural and manmade canal. A pleasant day’s cycling can be had from Inverness to Dochgarrach at the tip of Loch Dochfour. Take a picnic and sit on the banks of the canal and watch the boats and the day sail by. You can always go past Loch Dochfour where you’ll discover the iconic Loch Ness. There are plenty of water sports, pleasure cruises, adventure activities, Nessie spotting to keep the kids entertained near Inverness.
Bike Hire in Inverness
The route is pretty much traffic-free except for other pedestrians and cyclists. Why not hire an e-bike in Inverness from our friends Tartan Adventure? An adventure on one of their fantastic electric bikes will help you leave the stresses of day-to-day life behind you. Rent an e-bike for the whole family, and kiddie trailers for the young ones – a great day out with the kids near Inverness.
Where is the Caledonian Canal Cycle route?
