Here we go, summer holiday time! But what do you do when you have kids to entertain for 6 long weeks? And the summer holidays can be expensive. Well I've been digging around for some really good free days out around Scotland. Of course you can simply go to the park, beach, climb a hill. But if you're looking for something a bit different, here are 15 free activities I know of. If you know any other good ones, let me know and I can add them.
KELVINGROVE ART GALLERY AND MUSEUM, GLASGOW
A treasure trove of art and artifacts. With 22 galleries and over 8,000 objects on display, there's something here for the whole family. The natural history section is a big hit with kids, as is the spitfire suspended from the ceiling.
THE RIVERSIDE MUSEUM , GLASGOW
This museum, built by renown international architect Zaha Hadid, has won loads of awards. Inside it houses Glasgow's rich transport history - vintage cars, locomotives, a recreated street from the early 20th century. It's very interactive which makes it ideal for kids of all ages.
THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND
Based in the middle of Edinburgh, this place is a real mix of nature, art, design, science and history. As well as all the natural history exhibits kids can get hands-on in the science and technology galleries - a great mix on offer here.
A beautiful, safe space for kids to fun around in, explore themed gardens and enjoy some amazing plants. You pay to go into the glasshouses which, if you're willing, is worth it, for all the exotic plants. And a shelter if there's a downpour!
DUNDEE CONTEMPORARY ARTS, DUNDEE
A fantastic centre for contemporary art and culture. It has two art galleries, a print studio, a cinema and a cafe bar. The exhibitions are usually very interactive and imaginatively put together, perfect for kids who don't want to go and just 'look at stuff' in a museum.
You may have whizzed past them on the motorway. At 30 metres tall the Kelpies are the largest equine sculptures in the world. But it's fun to stop and visit them too. They're in Helix Park in Falkirk and as well as being pretty awesome to look up and marvel at, they give a good feel for Scottish mythology and engineering. The park's great to have a picnic and a play in.
GALLERY OF MODERN ART, GLASGOW
I'm told this is Scotland's most visited modern art gallery. It's in the city centre and houses a collection of contemporary works by local and international artists. The interactive and playful nature of the exhibits makes it a hit with kids.
This is a legendary market in Glasgow's East End. A top free day out (though I challenge you not to spot a bargain and want to buy it). You'll find everything from antiques to vintage clothing and local crafts. It's busy and buzzing but it's also family friendly, with lots of sights, activity and food to keep kids entertained.
THE SCOTTISH MASK AND PUPPET CENTRE, GLASGOW
This is a pretty magical place where kids can enjoy the magic of puppetry and even try making their own puppets. The centre runs a range of free puppet shows and workshops for children, check their website for schedules and events.
TIDAL POOL, NORTH BERWICK
Once North Berwick had it's famous outdoor pool but sadly, this is long gone. Still, the beach at North Berwick does have a tidal pool on the beach. It's perfect for small children on a warm day, you sit on the beach while they play in the safety of the pool (when the tide is out). It's just down from the Seabird Centre at the harbour.
MUSIC AND PLAYS AT KELVINGROVE BANDSTAND, GLASGOW
This classic bandstand and amphitheatre has a range of free music and theatre events in the summer. It's a great place for kids to enjoy live performances but in a beautiful outdoor setting, where they can have a picnic, dash about and so on.
BOATING ON THE UNION CANAL, EDINBURGH
Seagull Trust is a charity that runs free cruises on Scotland's canals for people with special needs. They're based near the Bridge Inn in Ratho, click on the link to find out more. They provide some great experiences and it goes without saying that the boats have accesible access.
PITTENWEEN ARTS FESTIVAL, FIFE
A staggering 140 artists are showing their work in houses, workshops, sheds in this week long festival 3-10th August. It's ideal for kids as you can do lots of wandering, get an ice cream, see the fishing boats, pop into a few galleries, have a picnic on the harbour, see another few artists and end up on the beach with fish and chips. Perfect day out.
HIGHLAND GAMES, ACROSS SCOTLAND
I love nothing more than a Highland Games, the dancing, the caber tossing, the racing, the pipes... it's such a great day out. Click on the link and it'll take you to the Royal Scottish Highland Games Association which lists all the games and gatherings that go on around the country.
It’s the biggest carnival in the world and you don't need to pay for shows to have a good time. Walk down the Royal Mile to see jugglers, acrobats, comics and musicians. For free shows, try the Laughing Horse’s Free Festival, which has a range of children’s events. And from 15-31 August, the Edinburgh International Book Festival has free storytelling for kids aged 3-10 every day at noon and 3pm.
