Free and budget friendly things to do with the kids in Scotland this summer

THE dismal summer weather has left many parents pulling their hair out, wondering how to entertain the kids during the school break, without breaking the bank.

It’s always tricky finding new things to do and coming up with new ideas to keep them happy during holidays, while watching the pennies.

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In fact, VisitScotland reports that searches for ‘free family days out’ have surged by 96 per cent in just the past week, as families are looking for exciting family days that don’t cost a fortune.

Luckily Scotland has an abundance of both free and budget-friendly attractions. From engaging museums that blend education with entertainment, to summer festivals full of fun, music and food, there’s something for every member of the family.

And to help the experts at VisitScotland have made a list of attractions that cater to all ages and tastes, where they can create lasting memories while experiencing the best of Scotland.

Standing at an impressive 100ft tall and weighing over 300 tonnes each, the iconic Kelpies in Falkirk’s Helix Park are the world’s largest equine sculptures.

Visiting them makes for a fantastic free family activity and it’s well worth exploring the surrounding area too, with idyllic walks that run alongside the canal and enchanting woodlands.

The Heart of Falkirk Trail is particularly perfect for families for a stroll together or cycle trip. Don’t forget to stop by the nearby Callendar House, which is free to visit.

Let the train take the strain as Falkirk is approximately 25 minutes from both Edinburgh and Glasgow – and right now up to four children can travel for just £1 return each with an adult paying full price.

And remember with a ScotRail Kids for a Quid ticket, children can visit numerous attractions for free with a standard adult entry, including Edinburgh Zoo, Camera Obscura, the Royal Yacht Britannia and more.

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Don’t let the rain spoil the fun – when it terns wet head to one of the many museums we have in Scotland – like The Perth Museum, which is free to visit.

Explore fascinating exhibits like the 3,000-year-old Carpow Logboat and the Stone of Destiny, that has returned to Perthshire for the first time in over 700 years.

Combine your visit with one to the Black Watch Castle & Museum (entry for two adults and up to four children, £28.25) located nearby in Perth.

You can also visit Scone Palace, where 42 Kings of Scots were crowned ( two adults and up to three children, £52).

If it’s sunny enjoy the stunning beaches of Aberdeen, learn about the region’s marine past at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which is free, and don’t forget to check out Aberdeen Art Gallery and Museum, again free to visit.

The Riverside Museum in Glasgow is an award-winning experience for those interested in transport and technology, stuffed with over 3,000 objects ranging from skateboards, locomotives, car, buses and trams and even a resident Stormtrooper!

You can walk along a recreated cobbled street lined with shops, houses, and a subway station, authentically recreating Glasgow’s past.

The museum hosts free events, like the Riverside Summer Fair, an annual summer market, full of handmade treats, arts and crafts from local producers.

Glasgow’s packed with places to visit including Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and The Burrell Collection in Pollock Country Park – where you might also spot some Highland Coos!

The south of Scotland is a treasure trove of literary links and stories. Robert Burns was born in Ayrshire, lived most of his life in Dumfries and was inspired by the beauty of the area for many of his works.

The Robert Burns Centre recounts the final years of Scotland’s national bard. The free to visit centre also offers regular screenings tailored for children and families, alongside a captivating 3D landscape model of Dumfries.

And make sure to stop by Moat Brae, where Peter Pan creator JM Barrie spent his childhood to explore the magical room where Wendy, John and Michael dream of learning to fly.

Check out Moat Brae’s Neverland Discovery Garden with magical play areas. Though this isn’t a free activity, it’s budget-friendly, with ticket prices for adult at £10 and children (4-15 Years) £7, toddlers (1-3 Years); £4. Entry to the garden is £3pp.

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The newly-established Tweed Valley Canoe Trail, a 30-mile stretch along the River Tweed, is the first official canoe trail in southern Scotland. It begins near the Dawyck Botanic Garden on the outskirts of Peebles and ends beyond Sir Walter Scott’s stunning Abbotsford.

Enjoy a walk along the route or take to the water for a more active pursuit. There are gear and guide services available from Biggar Adventure and kayak rentals suitable for all levels from Kayak & SUP Hire Scottish Borders.

For further ideas and inspiration on family days out, see here