Best Day Trips from Edinburgh: The Digital Explorer’s Guide

Deciding how to cram the absolute best of Scotland into a limited batch of day trips from Edinburgh can feel like a tough old task. It’s something we’ve grappled with ourselves, and after thorough research and loads of first-hand exploration, rest assured, we’ve come up with an answer you’ll find cracking!

Our article chalks out top-notch spots you can enjoy, whether you’re travelling solo or with your family – all within comfortable reach from the Scottish capital in just one day! Plus, we’ll share our digital expertise on how to capture, document, and share your Scottish adventures using the latest technology. Are you eager for some truly epic adventures? Let’s embark on this journey together.

A Great Adventure One Day Away from Edinburgh!

Edinburgh’s majestic castle and cobbled streets are a fantastic starting point for exploring Scotland’s rich history and stunning scenery. But beyond the city limits, a wealth of incredible day trips awaits, each offering a unique taste of the country’s charm.

Journey into the mystical Scottish Highlands, where rugged mountains cradle shimmering lochs like Loch Ness, its legendary depths harbouring tales of the elusive monster. Hike through Glencoe’s dramatic valleys, once battlegrounds and now blanketed in heather, or wander through the enchanting Isle of Skye, its fairy pools and windswept cliffs casting their spells.

Closer to Edinburgh, charming villages like Culross and South Queensferry offer a glimpse into Scottish coastal life, with quaint harbours and fresh seafood. And for something truly unique, take a boat trip on Loch Lomond, the country’s largest freshwater loch, or marvel at the Kelpies, two colossal horse-head sculptures from the Forth Estuary.

There is so much you can do and see beyond the city limits. So, whether you live in Edinburgh or are just visiting for a while, a day trip is something you must do! We have some recommendations for where you can go, whether solo-tripping or taking the family along the way.

The Best Family Day Trips From Edinburgh

Edinburgh, with its captivating castle and winding streets, is a treasure trove for families. But beyond the city walls, a wonderland of day trips awaits, each promising an unforgettable adventure. Here are some top picks, bursting with reasons why they’re perfect for family fun:

Stirling Castle

A mere 45-minute train ride or 50-minute drive separates you from the epic stories and towering ramparts of Stirling Castle. It’s a manageable journey, even for little legs, and the anticipation builds with each winding road or clickety-clack of the train. This impressive castle is a great place to learn about Scottish history. Kids will love exploring the ramparts, dungeons, and Great Hall. Here are some of the best programs it offers:

• Knights and Dragons: Immerse yourselves in the thrilling world of medieval Scotland. Kids will love exploring the castle’s ramparts, imagining themselves as brave knights defending the realm. The interactive exhibits bring history to life, from jousting tournaments to royal feasts.
• Royal Playground: The Great Hall, with its towering ceiling and intricate tapestries, is a sight to behold. Kids will be mesmerised by the stories etched into the walls, whispering of battles won and alliances forged.
• Dungeon Delves: Descend into the castle’s dark and mysterious dungeons if you dare! Learn about the lives of prisoners and outlaws, and let your imaginations run wild with tales of daring escapes and hidden treasures.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: Stirling Castle offers excellent opportunities for family photography. Capture your children’s wonder against the ancient stonework using portrait mode on your smartphone, or create a mini-documentary of your day using simple video techniques. We recommend shooting in the morning light for the best castle photography results.

The Kelpies

These mythical giants rise by car from the Forth Estuary, just 20 minutes west of Edinburgh. You can even reach them via a scenic 45-minute boat trip from South Queensferry, letting you admire the Edinburgh skyline as you sail towards their imposing presence. These two enormous horse-head sculptures are a real sight to behold. There’s a visitor centre with interactive exhibits, and you can even take a boat trip up the Forth Estuary to get a closer look.

• Mythical Giants: These colossal horse-head sculptures rising from the Forth Estuary will captivate everyone. Kids will marvel at their sheer size and be amazed by the stories they inspire.
• Interactive Fun: The visitor centre offers exhibits that bring the Kelpies to life. Learn about the myths and legends surrounding water horses, and design your mythical creature.
• Boat Adventure: Take a boat trip up the Forth Estuary for a unique perspective of the Kelpies. Get up close to these majestic creatures and feel the spray of the water as you sail past.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: The Kelpies are particularly stunning at twilight when they’re illuminated. This ‘blue hour’ lighting creates dramatic photos that tend to perform well on social media. Try a time-lapse video of the changing lights for an engaging piece of content to remember your visit.

Blair Drummond Safari Park

Embark on your safari adventure about 40 minutes northwest of Edinburgh. The drive is a treat, winding through charming villages and rolling hills. After a day of animal encounters, you can easily return to the city within an hour. This safari park is home to various animals worldwide, including lions, tigers, and giraffes. There’s a drive-through section and a walking safari to get up close to the animals.

• Animal Encounters: Embark on a thrilling safari adventure without leaving Scotland! Drive through the park and spot lions, tigers, giraffes, and zebras roaming freely in their enclosures. Kids will be wide-eyed with wonder as they come face-to-face with these amazing creatures.
• Walking Wonders: After the drive-through safari, stroll through the park’s walking section. Get closer to the animals and learn about their habitats and conservation efforts.
• Playful Primates: Let the kids loose in the chimpanzee enclosure and watch these intelligent creatures swing through the trees. There’s also a petting zoo where they can meet friendly farmyard animals.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: Wildlife photography can be challenging, especially from a moving vehicle. Use burst mode on your camera to capture the perfect moment of animal action, and consider bringing a small tripod for steadier shots through open windows. The park makes for excellent content for family blogs or YouTube channels.

South Queensferry

This harbourside haven is a quick 15-minute train ride or 20-minute drive from Edinburgh. You can even cycle there along the picturesque Forth Canal path, making it a perfect option for active families. The charming town of South Queensferry is located on the banks of the Firth of Forth. There’s a lovely harbour and a beach; you can even take a boat trip to see the Forth Bridges.

• Harbour Charm: This picturesque town on the banks of the Firth of Forth is a delight to explore. Stroll along the harbour, watch the boats bobbing on the water, and enjoy the fresh sea air.
• Beach Bliss: If the weather permits, build sandcastles on the beach, paddle in the shallows, or dip in the refreshing seawater. Kids will love the freedom of running barefoot on the sand and collecting seashells.
• Forth Bridges Marvel: Take a boat trip to see the iconic Forth Bridges up close. Learn about the engineering feats that went into their construction and be amazed by their size and scale.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: The three bridges spanning different centuries create a perfect composition for panoramic photography. Use your smartphone’s panorama mode or stitch together multiple shots in a photo editing app. Consider creating a visual comparison of the three bridges’ architectural styles for an educational social media post.

Dalkeith Country Park

Tucked away just 10 miles southeast of Edinburgh, this park offers a quick escape to nature. A short 20-minute drive or 30-minute bus ride whisks you away from the city bustle to a world of woodland trails, playgrounds, and boat rides. This park is excellent for a family picnic or a walk in the woods. There’s also a playground, a miniature railway, and a boating lake.

• Nature’s Playground: This sprawling park is a haven for families seeking fresh air and an outdoor adventure. Let the kids loose in the adventure playground with climbing frames, slides, and swings.
• Picnic Paradise: Find a shady spot under the trees and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch. Pack frisbees, balls, and bubbles for post-meal games in the sunshine.
• Boat and Train Rides: Take a leisurely boat trip on the lake or hop on the miniature railway for a scenic park tour. Kids will love the gentle chugging of the train and the chance to spot wildlife along the way.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: Dalkeith Country Park offers diverse natural backdrops for family photography. Create a digital scavenger hunt for your children using a trail app, encouraging them to photograph specific plants, animals, or landmarks throughout the park. This combines technology with outdoor education, creating lasting digital memories.

Day Trips From Edinburgh for the Solo Adventurers

With its captivating castle and cobbled streets, Edinburgh is a treasure trove for solo adventurers. But beyond the city walls, a wonderland of day trips awaits, each promising an escape from the ordinary and a chance to forge unforgettable memories. Here are a few top picks for your solo soul-searching:

Hike the Hills of Glencoe

Immerse yourself in the rugged wilderness by trading cityscapes for soaring peaks and windswept valleys in the dramatic Glencoe. Hike the “Lost Valley” for otherworldly scenery, or challenge yourself on the Pap of Glencoe for panoramic views. Pack a hearty picnic and find a hidden nook amidst the heather to enjoy the solitude. Listen to the whispers of the wind and feel the vastness of the landscape embrace you. The Lost Valley is a 1.5-hour drive or train journey, followed by a local bus or taxi to reach specific trailheads.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: Glencoe offers some of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes, perfect for creating stunning visual content. Use a hiking app to track your route and elevation for sharing with fellow adventure seekers. For photography, the early morning light creates spectacular shadow effects on the mountain ranges – worth waking up early for that perfect shot.

Kayak on Loch Lomond

Rent a kayak and glide across the glassy surface of Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest freshwater loch. Explore hidden coves and islands, or simply soak in the serenity of the mirrored mountains reflected in the water. Watch for playful otters, soaring eagles, and the occasional family of deer grazing on the shore. Breathe in the crisp air and let the gentle rhythm of the water lull you into a state of peaceful contemplation. Loch Lomond is a 1-hour drive or train journey, followed by a short taxi ride to reach the Loch access points.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: Waterproof phone cases or action cameras are essential for capturing your kayaking adventure. Create a tranquil, slow-motion video of your paddle cutting through the water or the mountains reflected on the loch’s surface. These peaceful moments tend to resonate well with audiences seeking mindfulness content.

Cycle the Borders Abbeys

Embark on a two-wheeled adventure through the Scottish Borders, a region dotted with medieval abbeys. Explore the ruins of Melrose Abbey, where Robert the Bruce’s heart is said to be buried, or marvel at the intricate stonework of Jedburgh Abbey. Choose a route that suits you, from gentle country lanes to challenging climbs. Take in the rolling hills, small villages, and the ever-present sheep grazing in the fields. The Abbey is generally within a 1-2 hour drive or train journey from Edinburgh.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: Create a digital abbey tour by capturing the unique architectural details of each ruin. Use cycling route apps to document your journey and share with other enthusiasts. Consider creating a before-and-after comparison using historical images of the abbeys juxtaposed with your modern photos – this type of historical contrast performs well on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest.

Explore the Isle of Skye

Take a ferry to the Isle of Skye, a land of rugged coastlines, fairy pools, and ancient myths. Hike the Quiraing, a dramatic rock formation, or wander through the enchanting Fairy Pools, rumoured to be inhabited by mischievous creatures. Hike off the beaten path and find your hidden corner of paradise. Watch the sunset paint the sky in fiery hues, and let the vastness of the island fill you with a sense of awe. The Isle of Skye is a 4-5 hour drive or train and ferry journey.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: Skye’s otherworldly landscapes demand thoughtful composition in your photography. Use the rule of thirds to capture the dramatic relationship between land, sea, and sky. For videographers, the island’s misty atmosphere creates natural cinematic effects – slow panning shots across the landscapes can create professional-quality footage even with a smartphone.

Climb Arthur’s Seat

Edinburgh’s mini-mountain, Arthur’s Seat, offers stunning panoramic city views and beyond. Hike to the summit for a sense of accomplishment and a breathtaking reward. Explore the ruins of St. Anthony’s Chapel along the way, or find a secluded spot to enjoy your packed lunch with a view. Arthur’s Seat is within the city limits and easily accessible by foot or public transport.

Digital Explorer’s Tip: The 360-degree views from Arthur’s Seat make it perfect for creating interactive panoramas. Use your smartphone’s panorama feature or specialised apps to create immersive views. For a unique content piece, consider a time-lapse of the changing city lights as the sun rises or sets from this vantage point.

Digital Travel Tips for Your Edinburgh Day Trips

In today’s connected world, technology can enhance your travel experiences while helping you create lasting digital memories. Here are some expert tips from our digital team at ConnollyCove:

Capturing Your Adventure: Photography and Videography

Scotland’s landscapes deserve to be captured in their full glory. Here’s how to do them justice:

• Golden Hour Magic: Plan photo sessions for the first and last hours of daylight when Scotland’s landscapes are bathed in golden light. This natural lighting elevates even smartphone photography.
• Composition Techniques: Use the rule of thirds to frame historic castles, or try low angles to make the Kelpies look even more imposing.
• Weather-Ready Equipment: Scotland’s weather can change rapidly. Bring waterproof cases, lens cloths, and portable chargers to ensure you can capture every moment.
• Storytelling Through Video: Rather than random clips, think about creating a narrative. Capture establishing shots of locations, detail shots of interesting features, and your authentic reactions to create compelling travel content.

Digital Planning Tools

Make the most of your day trips with these essential digital planning resources:

• Transport Apps: ScotRail’s app provides real-time train information, while Traveline Scotland covers all public transport options.
• Navigation Beyond Signal: Download offline maps through Google Maps or OS Maps before venturing into remote areas where mobile signal may be limited.
• Weather Forecasting: The Met Office app offers detailed hourly forecasts crucial for planning outdoor adventures in Scotland’s changeable climate.
• Attraction Bookings: Many sites like Stirling Castle offer discounted online tickets and digital guides that enhance your visit.

Sharing Your Scottish Adventures

Create meaningful content that captures your experiences:

• Curated Collections: Rather than posting dozens of similar photos, select your best 3-5 images that tell a story about each location.
• Local Hashtags: Use location-specific hashtags like #VisitScotland or #HiddenScotland to connect with local communities and tourism boards.
• Travel Journals: Apps like Day One or Journey let you combine photos, videos, and written reflections in private digital travel journals.
• Respectful Content: When sharing content of sacred or culturally significant sites, research appropriate ways to present them respectfully.

Getting Around Edinburgh and Beyond

Making the most of your day trips requires some planning. Here’s how to navigate efficiently:

By Train

The Scottish railway network offers spectacular views and convenient connections:

• Edinburgh Waverley serves as the main hub for trains to Glasgow, Stirling, and the Borders
• Book tickets via the ScotRail app for the best prices and digital ticket delivery
• Consider a Spirit of Scotland Travelpass for unlimited travel if planning multiple-day trips
• First-class upgrades are often affordable and provide more comfortable seating for longer journeys

By Car

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring remote locations:

• Several rental companies operate from both Edinburgh Airport and the city centre
• Scottish roads vary from modern motorways to single-track rural routes
• Always check seasonal road closures, especially for Highland destinations in winter
• Fuel stations can be sparse in rural areas – fill up before heading to remote locations

Guided Tours

For a hassle-free experience, consider joining an organised tour:

• Tour companies offer day trips to popular destinations like Loch Ness and Glencoe
• Benefit from knowledgeable guides who share historical context and local legends
• Mini-bus tours can access smaller roads and villages that larger coaches can’t reach
• Many tours include entrance fees to attractions, making them good value for money

Seasonal Considerations

Scotland’s day trip experiences vary dramatically with the seasons:

• Summer (June-August): Peak tourism season with long daylight hours (up to 18 hours), ideal for maximising exploration time
• Autumn (September-November): Stunning foliage colours and fewer crowds, but pack waterproofs for rain showers
• Winter (December-February): Short daylight hours limit exploration time, but snow-capped mountains create magical vistas
• Spring (March-May): Wildflowers bloom and newborn animals appear in the countryside, though the weather remains unpredictable

FAQs

Got questions about exploring beyond Edinburgh? We’ve gathered the most common queries from fellow travellers, combining our local knowledge and digital expertise to help you plan the perfect Scottish day trip adventure.

So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to discover the magic that awaits just beyond Edinburgh’s city walls. Whether you’re capturing the misty mountains of Glencoe with your smartphone or creating time-lapse videos of the Kelpies at sunset, these day trips offer both unforgettable Scottish experiences and perfect content opportunities to share with the world.