13 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh with Kids
Day trips from Edinburgh with kids sound magical — until you’re juggling train timetables, snack breaks, and the dreaded “are we there yet?”
Whether you’re craving castles, coastlines, or just a break from the city’s cobbles, a well-chosen day trip can be the highlight of your family adventure.
I lived in Edinburgh for two years and worked as a nanny for children ranging from 18 months to 12 years.
Since then, I’ve travelled extensively with my own family — so I know what makes or breaks a day out with kids.
The trips in this guide were selected based on what actually works for families: short travel times, easy logistics, and enough to keep little ones engaged without exhausting the grown-ups.
This list skips the “technically family-friendly” spots and focuses on what’s truly doable — by train, car, or tour — with real advice for real families.
And if you’re the planner in the family and want extra help picking the best trip for your crew, I’ve also got a free toolkit called Edinburgh Made Easy — it’s linked below the first few options.
Let’s make your day trips as smooth as the train ride to North Berwick.
How to Choose the Right Day Trip From Edinburgh With Kids
With 13 great options, it can be hard to pick — so here’s a quick guide to help narrow it down based on your kids’ ages, your energy levels, and whether you have a car.
| Family Type | Best Day Trips |
|---|---|
| Travelling with toddlers | East Links Family Park, North Berwick, Dunbar |
| Kids 5+ who love adventure | Loch Lomond, Blair Drummond, Stirling |
| No car? | North Berwick, Linlithgow, Stirling, Glasgow, South Queensferry |
| Short travel time (under 1 hour) | North Berwick, Stirling, Linlithgow, South Queensferry |
| History buffs | Stirling, Alnwick Castle, Rosslyn Chapel |
| Bad weather options | Glasgow museums, East Links (indoor spaces), Falkirk Wheel |
| Budget-friendly | Linlithgow, Dunbar, South Queensferry (free beaches + picnic spots) |
Tip: If you’ve got multiple days in Edinburgh, mix a nature day (like Loch Lomond) with a cultural one (like Stirling or Glasgow) — keeps everyone happy.
Best Day Trips From Edinburgh With Kids (By Train, Car or Tour)
1. North Berwick
Best for: Beach days, puffin spotting, and little legs to run wild
How to get there: ~35‑minute train from Edinburgh Waverley or ~50‑minute drive
Pushchair friendly? Yes — flat in town and promenade areas
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season: Spring through early autumn
Why go
North Berwick delivers the seaside magic without long travel. The sandy beach, rock pools, and quaint harbour are perfect for families.
The Scottish Seabird Centre is interactive and gives kids a chance to see local marine life. Boat trips to Bass Rock run in puffin season (April–July).
Top tip
Book your puffin boat trip ahead in summer — they sell out. The Lobster Shack is a local favourite for lunch — if queues scare you, try Drift Cliff Edge Café or Buttercup Café instead. Their menus are family-friendly and reliably good even during busy days.
2. Stirling
Best for: Castles, Scottish history, and dramatic scenery
How to get there: ~50‑minute train or ~1‑hour drive
Pushchair friendly? Partially — castle grounds are manageable, interior has uneven floors
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season: Year-round (snow adds charm in winter)
Why go
Stirling Castle is layered with stories, costumed guides, and exhibits that make history fun. I first went while competing with the pipe bands — and on a snowy return, the castle looked like a fairytale. Walking through courtyards and imagining life in old Scotland is something even kids will remember.
The castle is packed with hands-on exhibits, costumed actors, and wide open spaces to explore — it’s basically a giant playground with a history lesson baked in. If you’re planning to visit during school holidays or summer, it’s worth securing your entry ahead of time — it just saves time and guarantees you get the day you want.
Top tip
Skip city buses and plan your walking access. Warm up at Portcullis Pub just below the castle after exploring — comfy food and space for energetic children.
3. The Kelpies & Falkirk Wheel
Best for: Quick visits, younger kids, and engineering fans
How to get there: 25-minute train to Falkirk High, then short taxi or bus to the Wheel/Kelpies
Pushchair friendly? Yes
Great for all ages? Yes — especially 3+
Best season to visit: Spring through autumn, or dusk for the Kelpies’ lights
Why go:
This one’s a two-for-one deal — and a fun combo for curious kids. The Falkirk Wheel is a rotating boat lift that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi film.
Watching it in action is hypnotising — especially if you’ve got little ones into building, construction, or anything with gears.
Just a short walk or drive away are the Kelpies — two towering horse-head sculptures that light up at night. I visited after dark once, and honestly, they’re even more impressive when they’re glowing against the night sky. There’s also a big green park and play area nearby, so it’s easy to let kids burn off energy.
Top tip: If you’re short on time or don’t want to navigate trains and taxis, consider a guided tour that includes both — they often combine this stop with Stirling or Loch Lomond for a full day out.
Plan Your First Day in Edinburgh With Kids — In Just 10 Minutes
Grab my free family day planner with snack stops, toilet breaks, rainy-day backups, and a toddler-friendly route already mapped out.
- A full Edinburgh day planned for you
- Kid-friendly stops that won’t bore them
- Built-in food, rest, and backup options
- No stress, no spreadsheets, no guessing
Free PDF · Instant download · Built for first-time family visitors
4. Glasgow
Best for: Museum days, open parks, and a totally different city vibe
How to get there: 50-minute train from Edinburgh
Pushchair friendly? Mostly yes — though some museums are better equipped than others
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season to visit: Year-round
Why go:
Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and a total shift from Edinburgh — more urban, more modern, but just as full of culture.
It’s a dream for families thanks to free museums like the Riverside Museum, which is all about transport (with plenty of hands-on elements), and Kelvingrove Art Gallery, which mixes everything from art to dinosaurs.
There’s also Kelvingrove Park, a great spot for picnics or impromptu play if the weather holds up. I always recommend it for families who want to see another side of Scotland without straying too far.
Top tip: Need a break? Tantrum Doughnuts is a local gem that’s both Instagrammable and genuinely delicious — and always a hit with kids.
5. St Andrews
Best for: Beach strolls, castle ruins, and Harry Potter vibes
How to get there: Train to Leuchars (~1 hr 15 min), then short bus or taxi into town
Pushchair friendly? Yes, though parts of the ruins can be uneven
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season to visit: Spring to early autumn
Why go:
Known for its golf and university, St Andrews is also ideal for families. The castle and cathedral ruins are full of nooks to explore and are close to a wide, sandy beach that’s perfect for paddling, even if the water’s freezing.
I wasn’t expecting to love St Andrews — but the town’s mix of stunning buildings, boutique shops, and relaxed atmosphere won me over. It’s got that rare combo of historic and chilled, which is exactly what you want on a family day out.
Top tip: The fudge doughnuts at Fisher & Donaldson are basically required eating. Trust me.
6. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
Best for: Nature lovers, picnic spots, and first hiking adventures
How to get there: ~90-minute drive or guided day tour
Pushchair friendly? Some lochside paths are suitable; trails vary
Great for all ages? Yes — particularly ages 5+
Best season to visit: Spring to early autumn
Why go:
When you want to escape the city and get into “real Scotland,” Loch Lomond is the spot. With its huge loch, forest trails, and wide-open landscapes, it feels like a world away from Edinburgh — and the kind of place where kids can run free without you constantly checking for cars or crowds.
As a fan of the song Loch Lomond, I couldn’t wait to dip my toe in the actual loch — even though it was the middle of summer, the water was freezing.
It’s a fantastic place for families who like active days: short hikes, skipping stones, boat rides, and breathing that fresh Highland air.
Top tip: If you don’t want to drive, choose a family-friendly guided tour that stops at viewpoints and lochside areas (some even include short nature walks or boat trips).
7. Linlithgow
Best for: Castle lovers, loch strolls, and Outlander fans
How to get there: 20-minute train from Edinburgh
Pushchair friendly? Yes around the loch; uneven surfaces in palace ruins
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season to visit: Spring to early autumn
Why go:
Linlithgow is one of those under-the-radar gems — close enough for an easy day out, but without the city rush. We once stayed in Linlithgow for five nights while visiting Edinburgh, and although we didn’t have kids with us at the time, it was a perfect break. The palace is incredibly atmospheric (this is where Mary, Queen of Scots was born), and the lochside walk is peaceful and pushchair-friendly.
It’s also a great pick for fans of Outlander — several filming locations are nearby, so you can sneak in some sightseeing for the adults, too.
Top tip: If the weather’s good, pack a picnic and enjoy it beside the loch. Otherwise, So Strawberry Caffe does a great coffee and cake combo.
8. South Queensferry & the Forth Bridges
Best for: Coastal walks, bridge-spotting, and boat rides
How to get there: Train to Dalmeny (~20 minutes), then a 10-minute walk
Pushchair friendly? Mostly yes — there are some hills
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season to visit: Spring to early autumn
Why go:
I took a family I was nannying to South Queensferry, and it ended up being one of those perfect, easy-going days. The views of the Forth Bridges are iconic, and there’s something exciting about being near big trains and boats — especially if you’ve got kids who love transport.
The aquarium here was surprisingly good, and because it’s smaller than places like Glasgow, it’s ideal for little ones who might get overwhelmed in bigger spaces. Add in fish and chips by the water, and you’ve got a laid-back day with built-in entertainment.
Top tip: If you want to go out on the water, book a short bridge cruise — they’re just the right length for kids with short attention spans.
9. Rosslyn Chapel & Roslin Glen
Best for: Curious minds, forest wanders, and a bit of mystery
How to get there: 40-minute bus or 30-minute drive
Pushchair friendly? Chapel yes, glen trails no
Great for all ages? Best for 6+
Best season to visit: Year-round
Why go:
Rosslyn Chapel is packed with intricate carvings, secret symbols, and stories that sound like something out of Harry Potter — it’s definitely one for older kids who love fantasy or history. The visitor centre gives helpful background, and the whole place has this hushed, mysterious feel that’s quite magical.
Combine it with a short walk in Roslin Glen (if your kids are up for it) to stretch the legs and get some fresh air. It’s peaceful and a nice contrast to the more built-up day trips.
Top tip: There’s a café on site for snacks and tea — it’s a handy break before heading back.
10. Dunbar & East Lothian Beaches
Best for: Coastal wanders, sandy toes, and quieter beach days
How to get there: 25-minute train from Edinburgh
Pushchair friendly? Yes
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season to visit: Late spring through early autumn
Why go:
Dunbar is the less-crowded cousin to North Berwick, and that’s part of its charm. You’ll get stretches of golden sand, rock pools, and open skies without the weekend stampede. It’s an ideal choice for families looking to unwind a bit — bring a bucket, spade, and let the day flow.
It’s also home to the John Muir Country Park, where kids can spot birds, explore trails, and run wild. The town itself has a few solid lunch options and feels just the right size for a stress-free day.
Top tip: Bring a kite if it’s breezy. For treats, Graze Coffee & Chocolate House does great drinks and handmade chocolates — always a win.
11. Blair Drummond Safari Park
Best for: Animal-loving kids and full-day family adventures
How to get there: ~1-hour drive (no easy public transport)
Pushchair friendly? Yes
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season to visit: Spring through early autumn (park is seasonal)
Why go:
This is one of the most action-packed family attractions within reach of Edinburgh. You’ll find a drive-through safari, boat trips to a chimpanzee island, dinosaur park, animal feedings, and enough slides, trampolines, and go-karts to burn off every last crumb of snack-time energy.
It’s the kind of place where kids forget to ask for screens — and that’s saying something. If you’re travelling by car, it’s an easy add to your Edinburgh itinerary.
Top tip: Arrive early and bring snacks — you’ll be here a while. Some exhibits (like the sea lions) have limited showtimes, so check the schedule when you arrive.
12. East Links Family Park
Best for: Under-10s, high-energy days, and hands-on fun
How to get there: Train to Dunbar + short taxi or drive
Pushchair friendly? Yes
Great for all ages? Best for toddlers to 9-ish
Best season to visit: Spring through early autumn
Why go:
East Links isn’t a sightseeing spot — it’s a “let the kids go wild” kind of day. Think: go-karts, a mini train, animal petting zones, bouncy pillows, climbing walls, and more. If you’re looking for a real family park that kids will rave about (and likely fall asleep after), this is it.
It’s a good mix of outdoor fun with indoor areas for weather hiccups. And because it’s not massive, it’s manageable without feeling like a marathon.
Top tip: Bring a spare outfit or two — between water play and the mud, there’s a 90% chance you’ll need it.
13. Alnwick Castle & Holy Island (Lindisfarne)
Best for: Potterheads, history fans, and big-day-out adventurers
How to get there: 2-hour drive or guided tour from Edinburgh
Pushchair friendly? Castle and grounds partially; Holy Island uneven in parts
Great for all ages? Yes
Best season to visit: Late spring through early autumn
Why go:
If your kids have even heard of Harry Potter, they’ll love Alnwick Castle — parts of it were used in the films, and there are broomstick-flying lessons in the courtyard. It’s not just gimmicky either: the castle itself is beautifully maintained and set up for families, with trails, dressing-up areas, and big open spaces to explore.
Nearby, Holy Island (Lindisfarne) adds something unique. Accessible only at low tide, it feels like you’re visiting another world — calm, windswept, and a little bit magical.
Top tip: Check tide times before you plan your trip to Holy Island. If you’d rather skip the logistics, a day tour from Edinburgh takes care of everything and usually includes both stops.
Plan Your First Day in Edinburgh With Kids — In Just 10 Minutes
Grab my free family day planner with snack stops, toilet breaks, rainy-day backups, and a toddler-friendly route already mapped out.
- A full Edinburgh day planned for you
- Kid-friendly stops that won’t bore them
- Built-in food, rest, and backup options
- No stress, no spreadsheets, no guessing
Free PDF · Instant download · Built for first-time family visitors
Transport Tips: Getting to These Day Trips Without a Car
You don’t need a car for most of these — here’s how to keep things simple:
- Train Travel: Book tickets via Omio or at Edinburgh Waverley station. Kids under 5 travel free. Trains go to North Berwick, Linlithgow, Stirling, Dunbar, and Glasgow
- Bus Travel: Lothian Country Buses and Stagecoach cover many nearby spots. Use the Traveline Scotland app to plan routes.
- Tours: If you want to avoid planning or don’t feel confident navigating on your own, a guided tour is the easiest option.
- Taxis & Rideshares: Uber and local firms like Capital Cars can bridge the gap from train stations to rural spots like East Links or The Kelpies.
What to Pack for a Family Day Trip from Edinburgh
Edinburgh weather can shift by the hour — and some day trips are more remote than you’d think. Here’s what I always recommend bringing:
- Lightweight waterproof jacket (not an umbrella — too windy)
- Snacks + water (some sites have limited food options)
- Spare change of clothes (for splash zones, muddy trails, or beach stops)
- Comfortable shoes (especially for castles or cobbled streets)
- Power bank for phones (navigation + camera = battery drain)
- Entertainment for the train/bus: books, stickers, audio stories
Optional but helpful:
- Reusable cutlery (picnics and food stalls)
- Compact picnic blanket
- Baby wipes (always)
Car-Free Day Trips From Edinburgh
Don’t want to hire a car? No problem — here are the best no-car-necessary day trips:
- North Berwick – 35-minute train
- Stirling – 50-minute train
- Glasgow – 50-minute train
- Linlithgow – 20-minute train
- South Queensferry – Train to Dalmeny
- Dunbar – 25-minute train
- Rosslyn Chapel – 40-minute bus from Edinburgh city centre
Tip: If you’re open to tours, there are also great guided options to Alnwick Castle, Loch Lomond, and The Kelpies — no driving or planning required.
Sample Family-Friendly Day Trip Itineraries
If you’re trying to plan more than one trip, here are a few easy combos that work well together:
1. Falkirk + Stirling (by car or guided tour)
Morning: Kelpies & Falkirk Wheel
Afternoon: Stirling Castle + city centre lunch
Drive time: ~20 minutes between each stop
2. Linlithgow + South Queensferry
Morning: Linlithgow Palace & Loch Walk
Afternoon: South Queensferry stroll + fish & chips
Both accessible by train
3. East Links + Dunbar Beach
Morning: East Links Family Park
Afternoon: Walk along Dunbar’s harbour or beach
Perfect mix of play + coast for younger kids
Edinburgh Is the Perfect Base for Exploring Scotland With Kids
One of the best things about Edinburgh is how much is right on its doorstep. Whether your family is into castles, coastlines, animals, or boat rides — there’s a day trip that fits your vibe, budget, and travel style.
I’ve done many of these trips myself — and now, as a parent, I’m always thinking about how to make them enjoyable for everyone.
✨ If you’re looking for day trips with maximum payoff and minimum stress, you can’t go wrong with any of these. And if you’d rather skip the planning? A few lightly guided tours are mentioned above — they make things super simple.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the best day trips from Edinburgh for toddlers?
East Links Family Park, North Berwick beach, and the Kelpies are ideal — all have open space and easy access.
Can you do day trips from Edinburgh without a car?
Yes! Many spots like Stirling, Glasgow, Linlithgow, and North Berwick are train-accessible. Guided tours also make car-free travel easy.
Are there any castles near Edinburgh worth visiting with kids?
Stirling Castle is interactive and family-friendly. Linlithgow Palace and Alnwick Castle (great for Harry Potter fans) are also fantastic.
What is the closest beach to Edinburgh for families?
Portobello is the closest urban beach, but for a real day trip, North Berwick and Dunbar offer more space, rock pools, and charm.
Edinburgh Is the Perfect Base for Exploring Scotland With Kids
One of the best things about Edinburgh is how much is right on its doorstep. Whether your family is into castles, coastlines, animals, or boat rides — there’s a day trip that fits your vibe, budget, and travel style.
I’ve done many of these trips myself – and now, as a parent, I’m always thinking about how to make them enjoyable for everyone.
✨ If you’re looking for day trips with maximum payoff and minimum stress, you can’t go wrong with any of these.
What’s Next: Make Your Edinburgh Trip Truly Easy
If you loved this guide and want to build a full trip without the overwhelm, that’s exactly what Edinburgh Made Easy is for. It’s my done‑for‑you toolkit (itineraries, maps, packing lists, local tips, rainy-day swaps) that’s helped dozens of families plan smoother, more confident trips.
Use it to:
- Fill in gaps around these day trips (e.g. where to stay in Edinburgh, how to structure your days)
- Adjust for your family’s pace and travel style
- Avoid the “too many tabs / conflicting advice” trap
- And show up feeling calm, instead of scrambling
If you’re ready to go from idea to itinerary with confidence, check out Edinburgh Made Easy for your next step.
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