National Museum of Scotland (Edinburgh): A massive, multi-story adventure. Kids love the “Animal World” gallery and the interactive “Explore” science zone.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (Glasgow): Home to everything from a Spitfire plane to ancient Egyptian mummies. Don’t miss the daily free organ recitals.
Riverside Museum (Glasgow): An award-winning transport museum where kids can climb aboard old trams and trains.
The Burrell Collection (Glasgow): Set in the heart of Pollok Park, this museum offers beautiful art and free digital activities for children.
National Galleries of Scotland (Edinburgh): Located on Princes Street, they offer free “Art Trolleys” on weekends where kids can get creative for free.
Landmarks & History
The Kelpies & Helix Park (Falkirk): Marvel at the world’s largest equine sculptures. The surrounding Helix park has a massive adventure playground that is free to use.
The Falkirk Wheel: Watch the world’s only rotating boat lift. There are also water play areas and woodland trails nearby.
Calton Hill (Edinburgh): Offers the best free view of the city skyline. Kids love climbing the “unfinished” National Monument.
The Necropolis (Glasgow): A fascinating Victorian cemetery with incredible views over Glasgow Cathedral and the city center.
Stirling Bridge: Visit the historic site of William Wallace’s famous battle, perfect for a walk with a view of the Wallace Monument.
Comic Con & Special Events
BGCP Comic Con (Various Locations): BGCP brings superheroes and sci-fi to life with family-friendly events at major hubs like EK (East Kilbride), Dundee, Kirkcaldy, and Cumbernauld. These community-focused events are typically free to enter, offering meet-and-greets with cosplayers, prop displays, and a great atmosphere for young fans.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature
The Royal Botanic Garden (Edinburgh): Entry to the 72-acre garden is free. It’s a peaceful spot for kids to run around and see giant redwood trees.
Cuningar Loop (Glasgow): An urban woodland park with a bouldering park, a massive adventure play area, and riverside boardwalks.
Pollok Country Park (Glasgow): Visit the famous Highland Cows for free and explore the “fairy door” trails hidden in the woods.
Arthur’s Seat (Edinburgh): A proper hill hike in the heart of the city. For younger kids, stay low and feed the swans at St Margaret’s Loch.
Beecraigs Country Park (Linlithgow): Features a massive adventure play area, deer attraction, and Highland cattle.
Play & Interactive Spaces
The Play Barn at Whitekirk Hill (East Lothian): While the indoor soft play is paid, the extensive outdoor play park with sandpits and diggers is free.
The Wee Museum of Memory (Edinburgh): Located in Ocean Terminal, this free museum lets kids play with vintage toys and see how school and home life used to be.
National Library of Scotland (Kelvin Hall, Glasgow): A hidden gem where kids can use touchscreens to watch thousands of old films and cartoons for free.
Palacerigg Country Park (Cumbernauld): A great spot for a walk with plenty of wildlife and an adventure play area, perfect to pair with a visit to a local event.
