spring into
a great day out
FROM FAMILY FUN TO CULTURE AND NATURE, SCOTLAND HAS YOU COVERED
SPRING is the perfect time to get out and about, visit Scotland’s brilliant local attractions – and make memories that will last a lifetime.
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Sweet and Sour Specially Selected Pork Noodles
Tom is the fourth generation of his family to run multi award-winning Grierson Bros Butchers in Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway.
He joined the firm straight from school and is passionate about serving his customers premium quality meat that has only been reared on Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) assured holdings.
He says: “All our meat is locally sourced, and Scotch assured, so it’s guaranteed to offer the very best eating experience.
“Our Specially Selected Pork comes from a farm near Lockerbie. I’ve known the farmers I work with for years and I know that their animals are reared properly, to the highest welfare standards.
“That’s so important to me because it’s the right way to do things, supporting local businesses and giving our customers the highest quality products too.
“Everything we sell is Scottish, right the way through.”
With hundreds of places to visit - from museums and art galleries to nature reserves, music, food and drink festivals and everything in between - there’s a host of fun days out that are ideal for the whole family.
And great value deals, like Good Journey discounts on selected attraction entry fees when you travel by train or bus, mean you won’t have to blow the budget either.
Michael Golding, Chief Executive Officer at the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions, said: “Visitors travel from all over the world to experience Scotland’s incredible attractions, yet we often overlook the outstanding places that are right on our doorstep.
“From history and heritage to culture, adventure, and family fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Michael Golding
we often overlook the outstanding places that are right on our doorstep.
A DAY out in Scotland is a great way to connect with family and friends – and it’s good for the soul too.
With a wealth of different activities and experiences, indoors and outdoors, all over Scotland, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone.
Here are some of the best places to visit across the country.
CONNECT WITH
FAMILY & FRIENDS
GOOD FOR FAMILY FUN
Experience and take part in over 100 interactive exhibits at Edinburgh’s oldest purpose-built visitor attraction, open since 1853.
Discover optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including the Vortex Tunnel, Mirror Maze and Ames room then take in amazing 360 degree views of Edinburgh from the magnificent Rooftop Terrace.
A top-rated attraction on Tripadvisor.
Learn everything alpaca on a walk with a difference through the grounds of the beautiful Capenoch Estate. Alpacas are naturally curious, and the team will encourage you to engage with your trekking buddy.
Their comical behaviour never fails to put a smile on faces. Treks and visits tailored to suit all ages and abilities.
CAMERA OBSCURA AND
WORLD OF ILLUSIONS - EDINBURGH
Nith Valley Alpacas - Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway
One of Scotland’s must-see visitor attractions, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained for hours, from interactive visits, workshops, a planetarium and an IMAX cinema. Cast off in The Big Explorer and splash about in the Waterways exhibit or build a roller coaster, put on a puppet show and master the bubble wall.
GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE - GLASGOW
GOOD FOR FOODIES
This friendly café in Dingwall, near Inverness, has a menu packed with tasty treats from breakfasts to burgers. There’s also a great playpark for kids to let off some steam while the grown-ups are enjoying their food and lovely views. The café tries to be as environmentally conscious as possible too, with solar panels and electric charging points.
Woody’s Ice Cream Parlour & Dessert Bar - two locations in Mauchline, and Stewarton, both Ayrshire
Highland Farm CafÉ - Dingwall, Highlands
This family-run farm shop and café is open daily for breakfast, lunches, coffee, cakes and ice cream – all made with the best of local and seasonal produce where possible. When it comes to their awesome ice cream, choose your fruity flavours and the staff will blend it fresh with locally-produced Mackie’s ice cream…delicious!
Barra Farm Shop & Kitchen - Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire
Choose from 16 different flavours of ice cream, made fresh daily with creamy milk from the family’s prize-winning herd of Ayrshire cattle.
Many flavours are gluten free and there’s sorbet too. Or how about a hot dessert like cookie dough and waffles, topped with your choice of ice cream, sprinkles and sauce?
GOOD FOR your wallet
Fire your imagination at this brilliant museum – one of the UK’s top 10 visitor attractions. Embark on a journey of discovery through the history of Scotland, the wonders of nature, art and design, science and technology and world cultures.
Discover the story of Dolly the sheep, the first cloned mammal created from an adult cell, and how dinosaur bones were found on a Scottish island, and take part in interactive activities, such as the fantastic F1 racing car simulator.
Dive into the history of true love at the original home of romance. This fully immersive visitor attraction, which has a small entry fee, tells the age-old tale of that first knock at the door when the Famous Blacksmiths Shop story began. Touch the original anvil which marriages were performed over until 1940 – it’s said to bring good luck in love.
National Museum of Scotland - Edinburgh
Famous Blacksmiths Gretna Green Experience - Dumfries & Galloway
This fascinating museum tells the story of the city’s long relationship with the sea with a unique collection that covers shipbuilding, fast sailing ships, fishing and port history. Maritime paintings and objects are used to the full, with touch screen consoles, hands-on exhibits and an education room adding a new dimension.
Aberdeen Maritime Museum - aberdeen
some of the below attractions are free to enter - but donations are very gratefully received
GOOD FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Glentress is renowned for having some of the best mountain bike trails in the UK with routes for novices and experts and hire bikes available on-site.
But that's not all that's on offer, there's also walking trails and activities, such as the Go Ape Treetop Challenge and a wildlife hub where nature-lovers can observe the attraction's beehive and view a live osprey cam. And there's great coffee, food and cake in the buzzing café too.
With gardens, beaches, woodland trails and fantastic adventure playgrounds to explore, as well as a fairytale castle, this is a great day out for the whole family. Let the kids run wild in the Adventure Cove and Wild Woodland play areas. Explore the formal gardens, tour the castle and finish up with an ice cream at the Swan Pond.
7stanes - glentress, scottish borders
Culzean Castle & Country Park - Maybole, Ayrshire
One of the finest botanic gardens in the world, this wonderful space offers visitors an oasis of calm amid 72 acres of stunning scenery. Enjoy the serenity of the Chinese Hillside, explore the world-famous Rock Garden, stroll amongst the Giant Redwood trees in the Woodland Garden and admire the city’s skyline. Admission is free.
Royal Botanic Garden - Edinburgh
GOOD FOR CULTURE
One of the greatest art collections ever amassed by one person, this incredible museum includes more than 9,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of history.
Displays range from work by major artists like Rodin, Degas and Cézanne to examples of late medieval art, Chinese and Islamic art. Plenty of events and activities for children.
A world-class cultural and heritage attraction, it highlights the objects and stories that put Perth and Kinross at the centre of Scotland’s story. The iconic Stone of Destiny, or Stone of Scone, is the centrepiece of this museum which marks its year
anniversary on March 30. Re-charge in the Stone Café and don’t miss the Macbeth
exhibition, which starts on April 25.
The Burrell Collection
- Glasgow
Perth Museum - Perth & Kinross
Experience the remarkable story of design past, present and future and the vital
contribution design makes to all our lives, through permanent displays and changing exhibitions showcasing design from all over the world.
Check out free exhibitions including Shylight, Icons of Style and the new, ticketed Garden Futures, which opens on May 17.
V&A Dundee - Dundee
To find out more about the fantastic range of places to visit and activities to enjoy right now,
and throughout the year, go to
CHOOSING sustainable travel options – like trains, buses, coaches, going by bike or on foot – for days out makes it super easy to do your bit for the environment.
And Scotland has a great range of public transport options that will take you to the heart of where you want to be without breaking a sweat.
Plus, making eco-friendly choices doesn’t just help protect our beautiful landscape, it can help protect the pounds in your pocket too.
Check out Good Journey. It offers up to 25 per cent off entry when you arrive at selected attractions and accommodation car-free.
SCOTLAND Loves Local is an innovative national initiative inspiring everyone to think local, celebrating and supporting the incredible businesses and communities that make Scotland so special.
Why not treat a friend or family member to a Scotland Loves Local Gift Card? It's a great way to discover and enjoy local shopping, dining, experiences, and attractions, while helping our communities thrive.
Give the gift of local and make a difference. Find out more at lovelocal.scot
visitscotland.com/daysout
‘IT'S IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE’
Dr Alastair Cook
CONNECT WITH
FAMILY & FRIENDS
With hundreds of places to visit - from museums and art galleries to RSPB nature reserves, music, food and drink festivals and everything in between - there’s a host of fun days out that are ideal for the whole family.
And great value deals, like Good Journey discounts on selected attraction entry fees when you travel by train or bus, mean you won’t have to blow the budget either.
Michael Golding, Chief Executive Officer at the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions, said: “Visitors travel from all over the world to experience Scotland’s incredible attractions, yet we often overlook the outstanding places that are right on our doorstep.
“From history and heritage to culture, adventure, and family fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
GOOD FOR FAMILY FUN
Experience and take part in over 100 interactive exhibits at Edinburgh’s oldest visitor purpose-built attraction, open since 1853.
Discover optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including the Vortex Tunnel, Mirror Maze and Ames room then take in amazing 360 degree views of Edinburgh from the magnificent Rooftop Terrace.
A top-rated attraction on TripAdvisor.
CAMERA OBSCURA AND
WORLD OF ILLUSIONS - EDINBURGH
Learn everything alpaca on a walk with a difference through the grounds of the beautiful Capenoch Estate. Alpacas are naturally curious, and the team will encourage you to engage with your trekking buddy.
Their comical behaviour never fails to put a smile on faces. Treks and visits tailored to suit all ages and abilities.
Nith Valley Alpacas - Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway
One of Scotland’s must-see visitor attractions, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained for hours, from interactive visits, workshops, a planetarium and an IMAX cinema. Cast off in The Big Explorer and splash about in the Waterways exhibit or build a roller coaster, put on a puppet show and master the bubble wall.
GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE - GLASGOW
GOOD FOR FAMILY FUN
Choose from 16 different flavours of ice cream, made fresh daily with creamy milk from the family’s prize-winning herd of Ayrshire cattle.
Many flavours are gluten free and there’s sorbet too. Or how about a hot dessert like cookie dough and waffles, topped with your choice of ice cream, sprinkles and sauce?
Woody’s Ice Cream Parlour & Dessert Bar - two locations in Mauchline, and Stewarton, both Ayrshire
Learn everything alpaca on a walk with a difference through the grounds of the beautiful Capenoch Estate. Alpacas are naturally curious, and the team will encourage you to engage with your trekking buddy.
Their comical behaviour never fails to put a smile on faces. Treks and visits tailored to suit all ages and abilities.
Nith Valley Alpacas -
Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway
One of Scotland’s must-see visitor attractions, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained for hours, from interactive visits, workshops, a planetarium and an IMAX cinema. Cast off in The Big Explorer and splash about in the Waterways exhibit or build a roller coaster, put on a puppet show and master the bubble wall.
GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE - GLASGOW
some of the below attractions are free to enter - but donations are very gratefully received
GOOD FOR FAMILY FUN
Experience and take part in over 100 interactive exhibits at Edinburgh’s oldest visitor purpose-built attraction, open since 1853.
Discover optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including the Vortex Tunnel, Mirror Maze and Ames room then take in amazing 360 degree views of Edinburgh from the magnificent Rooftop Terrace.
A top-rated attraction on TripAdvisor.
CAMERA OBSCURA AND
WORLD OF ILLUSIONS - EDINBURGH
Learn everything alpaca on a walk with a difference through the grounds of the beautiful Capenoch Estate. Alpacas are naturally curious, and the team will encourage you to engage with your trekking buddy.
Their comical behaviour never fails to put a smile on faces. Treks and visits tailored to suit all ages and abilities.
Nith Valley Alpacas -
Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway
One of Scotland’s must-see visitor attractions, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained for hours, from interactive visits, workshops, a planetarium and an IMAX cinema. Cast off in The Big Explorer and splash about in the Waterways exhibit or build a roller coaster, put on a puppet show and master the bubble wall.
GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE - GLASGOW
GOOD FOR OUTDOOR
ADVENTURES
A brilliant place for bike enthusiasts, Tarland Trails is a network of purpose-built mountain bike tracks.
Designed to cater for riders of all ages and skill levels on trails like Up and Doune and High Pressure, the trail centre provides a magical outdoor experience in a stunning setting.
For those needing to hire cycles there are bike shops nearby in both Ballater and Banchory.
Tarland Trails - Aberdeenshire
With gardens, beaches, woodland trails and fantastic adventure playgrounds to explore, as well as a fairytale castle, this is a great day out for the whole family. Let the kids run wild in the Adventure Cove and Wild Woodland play areas. Explore the formal gardens, tour the castle and finish up with an ice cream at the Swan Pond.
Culzean Castle & Country Park - Maybole, Ayrshire
One of the finest botanic gardens in the world, this wonderful space offers visitors an oasis of calm amid 72 acres of stunning scenery. Enjoy the serenity of the Chinese Hillside, explore the world-famous Rock Garden, stroll amongst the Giant Redwood trees in the Woodland Garden and admire the city’s skyline. Admission is free.
Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh
To find out more about the fantastic range of places to visit and activities to enjoy right now,
and throughout the year, go to
visitscotland.com/daysout
Experience the remarkable story of design past, present and future and the vital contribution design makes to all our lives, through permanent displays and changing exhibitions showcasing design from all over the world.
Check out free exhibitions including Shylight, Icons of Style and the new, ticketed Garden Futures, which opens on May 17.
CHOOSING sustainable travel options – like trains, buses, coaches, going by bike or on foot – for days out makes it super easy to do your bit for the environment.
And Scotland has a great range of public transport options that will take you to the heart of where you want to be without breaking a sweat.
Plus, making eco-friendly choices doesn’t just help protect our beautiful landscape, it can help protect the pounds in your pocket too.
Check out Good Journey. It offers up to 25 per cent off entry when you arrive at selected attractions and accommodation car-free.
GOOD FOR FAMILY FUN
Experience and take part in over 100 interactive exhibits at Edinburgh’s oldest visitor purpose-built attraction, open since 1853.
Discover optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including the Vortex Tunnel, Mirror Maze and Ames room then take in amazing 360 degree views of Edinburgh from the magnificent Rooftop Terrace.
A top-rated attraction on TripAdvisor.
CAMERA OBSCURA AND
WORLD OF ILLUSIONS - EDINBURGH
Learn everything alpaca on a walk with a difference through the grounds of the beautiful Capenoch Estate. Alpacas are naturally curious, and the team will encourage you to engage with your trekking buddy.
Their comical behaviour never fails to put a smile on faces. Treks and visits tailored to suit all ages and abilities.
Nith Valley Alpacas -
Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway
One of Scotland’s must-see visitor attractions, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained for hours, from interactive visits, workshops, a planetarium and an IMAX cinema. Cast off in The Big Explorer and splash about in the Waterways exhibit or build a roller coaster, put on a puppet show and master the bubble wall.
GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE - GLASGOW
dates for your diary
DISCOVER a fun-packed calendar of family-friendly events to take you from spring into summer.
With everything from Easter activities and super science events to brilliant food, drink and music festivals, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
Dig down into the science of soil with a How Does Your Garden Grow workshop or have a go at testing air quality with a CO2 and You workshop. Watch Science on the Spot demos and make your own paper or artwork from recycled materials.
Step into a world of fun, fantasy, and adventure and bring your biggest hat as you explore Wonderland – an experience packed with games, laughter and surprises. Hop on a vintage tractor and train and enjoy a small animal handling session.
Get ready for a weekend of delicious food, refreshing drinks and family fun. You’ll find street food vendors serving dishes from around the world, stalls showcasing local produce and artisan goods, live entertainment and cooking demos.
Explore the challenges of living on a planet with finite resources through the lenses of science fiction and space exploration with this year’s theme, Spaceship Earth. What would it be like to ‘live like an astronaut’ on a space station?
This popular annual event is an irresistible mix of charm, fun and education. Meet the gorgeous baby Cashmere goats dressed in colourful hand-knitted jumpers to keep them cosy – and enjoy a heartwarming cuddle with these cuties.
Enjoy a scavenger hunt, bonnet making and parade and the Great New Lanark Duck Race. Let off steam in the outdoor play area or check out the soft play area with its 30ft assault course. Don't miss the face painting and films.
This fantastic long weekend of Scottish music features folk-rock bands, fiddle, accordion, dance and ceilidh bands and takes places in several hotel and bar venues in Tobermory and one in Dervaig.
Arrive hungry at this free-to-attend event, where more than 35 street food traders, artisan makers and licensed bars will be waiting to tickle your tastebuds. There’s also live music, entertainment and kids’ cooking workshops.
PLANET PROTECTORS, ABERDEEN SCIENCE CENTRE: APRIL 2 – 17
CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER, ALMOND VALLEY, LIVINGSTON, WEST LOTHIAN: APRIL 4 – 22
SPRINGFEST @ LOCH LOMOND SHORES, BALLOCH, WEST DUNBARTONSHIRE: APRIL 5 – 6
EDINBURGH SCIENCE FESTIVAL: APRIL 5 – 20
GOATS IN COATS FESTIVAL: LUNAN BAY FARM, ANGUS: APRIL 12, 13, 19, 20
NEW LANARK EASTER FESTIVAL: APRIL 19 – 20
MULL MUSIC FESTIVAL: APRIL 24 – 27
PAISLEY FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL: APRIL 25 – 26
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good for green travel
we often overlook the outstanding places that are right on our doorstep
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GOOD FOR CULTURE