County
Activities In Scottish Borders
The Scottish Borders blend rolling countryside with plenty to keep families entertained, from outdoor adventures to indoor attractions. Go Ape Glentress Forest offers thrilling treetop courses for older kids and confident younger adventurers, whilst 7stanes Glentress provides excellent cycling trails for all abilities. If you're planning a quieter day, Bowhill Stables offers riding experiences set in picturesque landscape, and the Peebles Spy Mission Treasure Trail combines exploration with a treasure-hunting game perfect for inquisitive families. Tweed Valley Osprey Watch and the Trimontium Heritage Centre round out the mix with nature and history for a rounded visit.
Showing 1–12 of 27
SightseeingAbbotsford
Parks and PlaygroundsSt Abbs Head Nature Reserve
CastlesFloors Castle
SightseeingJedburgh Castle Jail and Museum
SightseeingMary Queen Of Scots Visitor Centre
Parks and PlaygroundsWilton Lodge Park
CastlesThirlestane Castle
AdventureGo Ape Glentress Forest, Peebles
SightseeingTraquair House
Parks and PlaygroundsKailzie Gardens
MuseumsEyemouth Museum
SightseeingBowhill House and County Estate
With 18 indoor attractions and 20 outdoor venues, the Borders work well for mixed-weather days. Pricing information is limited for most attractions, though Go Ape Glentress charges £25 per adult. Booking ahead is advisable, particularly for activity centres and outdoor pursuits during peak seasons.
Visiting Scottish Borders with kids: FAQs
What are the best outdoor activities for active families?
The Borders excel for outdoor pursuits. 7stanes Glentress is Scotland's premier mountain biking destination, with trails suited to various skill levels and family groups. Go Ape Glentress Forest offers treetop adventure courses, whilst Bowhill Stables provides riding experiences through beautiful countryside. If walking appeals more, St Abbs Head Nature Reserve combines coastal scenery with opportunities to spot wildlife. The region's landscape naturally supports exploration and active play, making it ideal for families who prefer hands-on outdoor activities over indoor entertainment.
What indoor activities are available on rainy days?
Rainy days need not dampen spirits here. The Trimontium Heritage Centre offers museum-style exhibits exploring the area's rich history, whilst Tweed Valley Osprey Watch combines indoor viewing areas with outdoor observation spaces for wildlife spotting. Nenthorn Equestrian Centre caters to riders regardless of weather, and the region's indoor facilities provide shelter when the Scottish climate turns wet. With 18 indoor attractions in total, there are enough options to break up a holiday, though many venues have unpublished pricing, so it's worth ringing ahead to confirm opening times and costs.
Is it an affordable destination for families?
Pricing across the Borders is largely unconfirmed, with only two attractions showing confirmed prices. Go Ape Glentress is clearly marked at £25 per adult, representing a significant but focused outlay. For the remaining 25 venues, you'll need to contact attractions directly to establish costs. This uncertainty makes it difficult to budget precisely, but the region's emphasis on outdoor spaces, parks, and natural attractions suggests opportunities for free or low-cost exploration alongside paid activities. Planning ahead with a phone call to your chosen venues will help clarify what fits your budget.