Europe
Scotland
Highland adventures, ancient castles, and wild open skies
Scotland is one of the UK’s great adventure destinations for families. The Highlands offer dramatic scenery, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities that thrill children of all ages. Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most dramatic cities — all castle ramparts and cobbled closes — and the islands are as wild and remote as anywhere in the world.
Quick Facts
Best time to visit
May to September
Budget range
£1,000 – £3,500 per family
Family Highlights
- Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
- Loch Ness and the Cairngorms
- Isle of Skye
- Highland wildlife (red squirrels, red deer, golden eagles)
- Jacobite steam train (the Hogwarts Express route)
Jessica's Family Tips
- Midges are vicious from June to August in the Highlands — pack repellent and consider a midge head net
- The Jacobite steam train (Fort William to Mallaig) must be booked months in advance
- Scotland’s access rights mean you can wild camp almost anywhere — brilliant for adventurous families
- Self-catering cottages in the Highlands offer extraordinary value and space
Photo Gallery
1 / 12
Ready to plan your Scotland family holiday?
Tell me about your family and I'll create a bespoke proposal.
Start Planning