The Ultimate Guide to the Best Day Trips from Edinburgh

Updated On: December 28, 2023 by   Maha Yassin

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! 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Loch access points.

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.

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 Sky is a 4-5 hour drive or train and ferry journey.

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 Peak is within the city limits and easily accessible by foot or public transport.

So pack your bags, pick your adventure, and get ready to discover the magic that awaits just beyond Edinburgh’s city walls. Remember, whether you’re travelling solo or with your family, day trips are meant to be fun, exciting, and an opportunity to embrace life and what it offers. So choose your adventure and head out of the city for a day to remember!

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