Age Group: Big Kid (8-12)
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Extraordinary mechanical theatre with hundreds of carved figures and old machine parts performing to music and light. Utterly unique — kids (and adults) sit in complete awe. One of Glasgow’s best-kept secrets. Address: 103 Trongate, Glasgow G1 5HD Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Low Cost $
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Atmospheric ruined castle on the banks of Loch Ness — the most dramatic spot to Nessie-watch. Visitor centre tells the castle’s history. Take a Loch Ness boat cruise from here for the full experience. Address: Urquhart Castle, Drumnadrochit, Inverness IV63 6XJ Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Newly revamped exhibition exploring the legend, science, and mystery of the Loch Ness Monster. Kids are completely gripped. Pair with Urquhart Castle next door for a full Loch Ness day. Address: Drumnadrochit, Inverness IV63 6TU Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Newly opened Castle visitor experience with sweeping 360-degree views over the Highlands from the tower. Interactive exhibits inside bring Highland history to life. Right in the heart of Inverness — easy to combine with the city. Address: Inverness Castle, Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3EG Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Charming covered Victorian market in the city centre with independent shops, cafes, and a warm, dry refuge on a rainy Highland day. Great for Scottish fudge, gifts, and a hot chocolate pitstop. Address: Academy St, Inverness IV1 1JN Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Free local museum with Highland history, Pictish stones, wildlife displays, and hands-on activities for kids. Compact and easy to do in an hour. Great introduction to Scottish Highland culture. Address: Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3EB Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Boat trips from Inverness to spot the famous bottlenose dolphins of the Moray Firth — one of the largest resident dolphin populations in the UK. Seals and seabirds too. Book ahead in peak summer season. Address: Shore St Quay, Inverness IV1 1NF Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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One of Scotland’s best family attractions — 300+ interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theatre. Kids can easily spend a full day here. Brilliant rainy day destination on the Clyde waterfront. Address: 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow G51 1EA Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Powerful and immersive visitor centre at the site of the 1746 Jacobite battle. The 360-degree battle experience is genuinely gripping for older kids. Atmospheric moorland walk among the clan grave markers. Address: Culloden Moor, Inverness IV2 5EU Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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One of the UK’s finest free museums with a stuffed elephant, a Spitfire hanging from the ceiling, and world-class art. Kids are endlessly entertained. The organ recitals at 1pm are a lovely bonus. Address: Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free