11 Best Family Holidays (Scotland Edition)

Trying to plan an enjoyable family holiday has been virtually impossible over the last few months, but now that things are getting back on track, it's time to get looking for your dream trip!

Family holidays to Scotland are a great choice for when you want to get away from it all. With a range of stunning spots across the country, no matter what you decide on you'll be sure to experience some breathtaking views, fascinating wildlife, and excellent accommodation.

From beaches to lakes to the countryside, we've rounded up 11 of our favourite Scottish spots that both children and adults will adore.

Remember to keep following government advicefor England, Scotland and Wales regarding travel, particularly between countries.

Loch Lomond Waterfront - Balmaha

Loch Lomond Waterfront offers up a large range of accommodation, from gorgeous large family-friendly lodges (which house up to 11 people!) to chalets. The site has over 18 acres of land around it with plenty of security, so you can rest assured that the kids are running around exploring safely whilst you sit back, relax, and enjoy.

Whether you go for a lodge or a chalet, all are fully equipped and self-catered with stunning views of the water.

Infants can stay for free with cots provided, and the popular spot is even pet-friendly, so nobody has to be left behind. With access to the private beach, hot tubs, free wifi, and DVDs and games available in the rooms, you don't have to worry about keeping your brood entertained.

There are also several activities such as a boat trip, a pony trek, or a visit to the Sea Life Centre included in your holiday.

With plans to reopen on the 15th of July, Loch Lomond Waterfront has introduced new and safer procedures to keep the location clean, and socially distanced. If you're after a relaxing break to Scotland you can book online from today!

Loch Katrine Eco Camping - Callander

If you've ever dreamed of water-side camping for your family holiday, then you'd better hop on over to Loch Katrine in Scotland. Situated right by the gorgeous lake in a truly magical environment, you can either pitch your tents and camp the traditional way or hire a luxury eco-friendly lodge with its own built-in kitchenette.

Having only opened in 2018, the site is pretty modern and well equipped with toilets and hot showers for campers. There's also plenty to do in the surrounding areas.

There are two cafes nearby, along with a gift shop, a bike hire, and a dock for boat trips. The camping spot is fully accessible for wheelchair users and pushchairs, and the paths along the lake are perfect for walks and bike rides.

The ideal site for social distancing, Loch Katrine Eco Camping is taking bookings from the 15th of July on their website.

Thurston Manor - Dunbar

Not too far from Edinburgh is this gorgeous retreat in the heart of the countryside.

The Thurston Manor holiday park offers guests a choice of self-catered accommodation, or you can bring your very own camper vans and enjoy the facilities of the park. With a whopping 175 acres of stunning countryside to explore, there's plenty to see and do.

From checking out the wildlife, fishing at the lake, and doing the walking trails to taking a dip in the pool, relaxing in the sauna and watching the kids enjoy the outdoor play area, arcade, and games room, you won't get bored.

Thurston Manor is taking bookings for July with a whole new set of guidelines to ensure that you have a safe trip without reducing the quality.

Lilliardsedge Holiday Park - Jedburgh

This family-run holiday park is situated in the vast countryside, just under 50 miles away from Edinburgh. Pick from either a lodge, a caravan, a tent, or your own motorhome - and immerse yourself in your surroundings.

The 110-acre park (plenty of space for privacy and social distancing) comprises of an incredible golf course, two nature walks, a restaurant, a bar, and nearby fishing spots.

You can even have your own hot tub! There are several charming towns and villages nearby to explore, along with other historical spots to visit such as Melrose Abbey or Mary Queen of Scots House.

The park plans to reopen on the 4th of July for self-catering bookings, however, those who wish to camp and share facilities will have to wait until the 15th.

Pease Bay - Dunbar

Just steps away from the beach and with stunning Berwickshire coastline views, Pease Bay is one family holiday park that you don't want to miss out on.

Quiet and relaxing, this park offers high-quality self-catered accommodation with plenty of things to do to make your stay more enjoyable.

There are lovely villages and towns nearby with shops and eateries to try out, along with fishing, watersports, walks, and the ocean at your fingertips. On-site you'll find a kid's playground, a shop, a laundrette, a restaurant and bar, and plenty of games and entertainment for the children.

You'll be able to choose from either a caravan or a lodge - with your very own private outdoor seating area.

Pease Bay is opening in July with the promise of safe procedures and extra precautions being put in place.

Ettrick Valley Yurts - Newburgh

If location is what you're looking for, search no further. Situated in the gorgeous valley and near to the waterfront - you won't find better views.

You and your family can experience staying in a traditional yurt - fully furnished, cosy, and fitted with cooking facilities.

Outside of the yurt, you'll find a private barbecue and fire pit, along with communal toilets and showers.

Perfect for a quiet holiday to experience nature, you can try walks, bike rides, horse rides, kayaking, and there's plenty of space for the kids to run around - you may even spot some sheep or cattle. If you want to travel a little further off-site, there are castles, museums, and monuments to explore a short drive away.

Ettrick Valley Yurts are accepting telephone bookings from July onwards, although book up quickly as they are extremely popular!

Grannie’s Heilan’ Hame - Sutherland

Situated just next to the beach and with some stunning views, Grannie's Heilan Hame is a great family holiday park to visit in Scotland.

Not too far from the Scottish Highlands, you can pick from a caravan or a lodge (with fully equipped kitchens) or pitch your own tent.

The park is dog-friendly, accessible to wheelchair users - and has plenty to see and do. Try your hand at crazy golf, sunbathe at the beach and keep an eye out for dolphins, take a dip in the heated pool, or watch the kids run around in the playground.

At the end of the day, if you don't feel like cooking you can either head down to the fish and chip takeaway or the Boston restaurant, which also has terraced seating for alfresco dining!

From July 6th onwards you'll be able to book your stay at Grannie's.

Crosswoodhill Farm Cottages - West Calder

These gorgeous holiday cottages make for the perfect visit, your very own home away from home.

Pick from one of four self-catering traditional little cottages with modern twists, all of which are totally unique and picturesque.

With plenty of farm to discover, surrounding hills to run around on, toys and games in each cottage, and a brand new woodland play area for the kids, you'll be able to relax in front of the real fireplace whilst the children explore and enjoy.

Shops and restaurants are a few miles away so we'd suggest coming by car, but the owners of the farm are more than happy to provide details and recommendations on this for you.

The cottages are opening their doors from the 3rd of July, and are safe for social distancing - the ideal isolated holiday in the countryside.

Craig Tara Holiday Park - Ayr

The Craig Tara resort is one of the largest holiday parks on this list - and a favourite amongst families. If you're looking for a more relaxed staycation, you can enjoy the direct access to the beach, and stroll down the Ayrshire coast.

Or, if you're after something more action-packed you can try out the Splashaway Bay multi-level water complex, the Airspace sports hall, or the Lighthouse Harbour Adventure Village.

You'll be able to choose between a caravan or an apartment (and pick whether you want a quiet spot or close to the action), or you can pitch a tent and make use of the shared facilities. There are also six different spots for food and drink, a supermarket, a laundrette, and a golf course.

Craig Tara Holiday Park reopens on the 17th of July and is currently preparing to best follow hygiene and social distancing measures.

Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park - Nairn

With the gorgeous Nairn Beach just outside your doorstep, you and the family can experience a fun-filled trip in either a fully equipped lodge, a fully equipped caravan, or a tent.

The park itself has its own indoor pool, crazy golf, sauna, arcade, pizza takeaway, and restaurant to try out - or if you want to venture off-site you'll be able to visit the nearby beach for a dip or picnic on the sand, castles, forests, country parks, and nature trails.

Not to mention, the ever-famous Loch Ness is just around the corner!

The park is taking bookings online from the 6th of July onwards, so you'll want to get booking as soon as possible!

Sandylands - Ayrshire

Hire out one of Sandylands' fully equipped, accessible caravans for a stay you'll never forget.

The beach is just minutes away and gives the park lovely views of the coast, but if you'd rather stay on-site you can make use of the two golf courses, the outdoor adventure playground, the fish and chips takeaway, the Boathouse Restaurant, the heated pool, and the on-site supermarket.

Alternatively, you can use the nearby station to hop on over to Glasgow for a day trip.

There are plenty of memories to be made and things to do, so don't miss out!

Sandylands are taking bookings for July, following government guidelines.

Main Image Editorial credit: lowsun / Shutterstock.com