And the children?
Here is the list of activities we have tested with our two boys. Some activities are only for the smallest tots but majority are for all range of ages and even parents might or have to join. If you would like to know more or have a specific question just give us a call or drop us a message.
Cheswick Beach
This is our boys’ favourite sandy beach to go to. It is only 30-35 minutes away, quite secluded and vast (especially with the tide out). It does get rather windy and the sea is cold-ish, but it does not deter children of any age to enjoy the dunes, sand and the myriad castle constructions. The car park is small so people tend to park alongside the road. It takes 5 minutes to walk to the beach from the car park.
Foxlake Adventure
Foxlake is 37 miles away but it is worthwhile to visit this adrenaline filled outdoor activity hub; including the UK’s first ropes course over water in FoxFall, Wakeboarding, Ringos, Segways and Open Water Swimming. It does get extremely busy so booking in advance is essential. Also, a participant has to be of a certain height and there is an age limit so please make sure you find out before you set off. Foxlake is located on the edge of the John Muir Way so you can finish off your morning adventure by a scroll/bike ride/dog walk around the beautiful woodland. more info
Whiteadder Reservoir
If you like water and do occasional water sports then Whiteadder Reservoir in Scottish Borders might be a nice fit. You can rent everything out from sailing or fishing boat, kayak and/or SUP. Even the wetsuits are on offer so do not worry if you do not have one. The center offers private/group lessons too which are taught by very friendly and relaxed instructors. Calling ahead is essential and remember to bring your swimming costume for a dip. WHO DARES, DIPS! More info
Paintball
This activity might be a bit further up the road (over 1 hour just outside of Edinburgh) but according to my 12 year old and his friends; “It was the best thing ever!!!’. So if you fancy shooting, getting hit, run around and pretend to be in a ‘friendly’ war situation for 3 hours – this is perfect. It takes the energy out of the children and makes them appreciate (hopefully) that any combat situation is not as simple, easy and straighforward as it may seem on their nintendos and other video games. Website
GoApe Dalkeith
This is a newly built GoApe site in Dalkeith Country Park. It might a bit intimidating for some but the children seem to love it. I suppose when you are under 10 years old then the fear factor is non existent. It is a great site with a friendly staff and catering for 3 different groups – small children as well as adults. It’s very safe (according to GoApe) and at no time, during the whole course, you are detached from the main safety rope. Afterwards, you can either head to Dalkeith Country Park for more outdoor fun or enjoy a coffee at their café. More info
Stichill Linn
Stichill Linn is one of Scotland’s most majestic waterfalls and one of its most closely-kept secrets. This is truly a hidden gem and we have only found out about it 4 years ago. The waterfall is located just outside of Stichill village where you can park. There is an easily defined path of 1-2km down to the waterfall, with a few helpful signposts. The path does get extremely muddy so the wellies is a must. Please do not be fooled, the water is extremely cold…
Edinburgh Festival
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August. This one is rather obvious. A three week long celebration of arts and culture. We tend to go every year for 1 or 2 days. We usually book 3 family friendly shows in between which we eat weird and wonderful street food, watch street performers and comedians and enjoy the overall atmosphere of Edinburgh. Cannot be missed. www.edfringe.com
Clip 'n Climb / Climbing
When it is a bit rainier and windier than usual, we would recommend to take your children to Edinburgh International Climbing Arena. The centre does not just have a super climbing and bouldering walls but Clip ‘n Climb section which is suitable for the children from the age of 5. Even if you or your children never climbed before you, don’t worry, It is suitable for the beginners. If you want to use the climbing part of the center then you might need belaying experience. Call me if you need to discuss.
Cheviot Hills
These are The Cheviot Hills on a Scottish side (The Cheviot – the highest point is on the English side). We do this one regularly. Kirk Yetholm is 30 minutes away, Your starting point is a large car park by the burn and farm nearby. You do have to pass an active fam yard and some cows and horses on the way, but the hike is worthwhile. It is hilly but nothing extreme, the path is well trodden and it is well signed. We found a circular path which takes around 2-4 hours (depends on the mood of a particular child). I think it is in a region of 11km.
Eildon Hills
Nothing beats to see the children summiting a local (not too big) hill with the excitement and achievement in their eyes. The Eildons are easily accessible from Melrose. It is a bit of a hike up but with number of well timed stops and some sweet motivators it is enjoyable and fun. There are three hills of various sizes and they all get rather windy and cold. That, however, does not stop the children from getting to the top and enjoying the views of Scottish Borders. After that it is just a run down the hill!
Dalkeith Country Park
Restoration Yard and Fort Douglas sits within 1000 of acres in Dalkeith Country Park. Restoration Yard is beautifully restored stable yard where you can shop and visit restaurant and a cafe. Fort Douglas is a mixture of magical tree houses, outdoor climbing walls, suspension bridges, etc. It has two amazing play zones: one that’s perfect for toddler play and another for ages 5+. The whole playground area is outdoors (so a bit weather dependant) but it is perfect! On top of all the playing the whole family can either bring their own bicycles or borrow them on the premises and take advantage of the hundreds of acres.
Kelso Skatepark
Kelso is a charming little Borders town with a large number of things to do. The Skatepark in Shedden park is one of them. It has been newly rebuilt in the last couple of years and has proven to be extremely popular. It gets quite busy at the height of Scottish holidays but the children seem to be very nice to each other and tolerant of each others’ different abilities. In the close vicinity, on the other side of the park, there is also a new children playground. So get ready for 2-3 hours of fun.
The Cheviot
Although one of the children looks a bit miserable, he is not really. This particular day was raining whole day and the wind did to cease. The Cheviot is the highest summit in the Cheviot Hills on the English side. The path to The Cheviot starts at Langleeford and as you are approaching it, you will pass a number of carparks where you can leave your car. The path to the top is well trodden, muddy and wet. It criss-crosses the Harthope Burn in abundance. You will get wet feet! The hike itself can take 3-6 hours. It is not a hard walk, it has one or two slightly steeper areas and the summit itself is flat. The view – I have not seen any yet and I have been up there 4 times. Combination of bad weather and bad luck.
Edin's Hall Broch
Extremely easy to get to and just 20 minutes away (outside of Duns). You can park on the side of the road and start your walk. It is well sign posted. The walk is gentle – there are few very mild uphills and downhills which take you through a Abby St Bathan woodland, a wobbly bridge over the Whiteadder River and some cow fields. This Iron Age broch is rare and one of very few brochs found in Lowland Scotland. You can bring a picnic and let the children explore every nook and cranny of this fabulous dry stone structure.
Woods
Although Gordon Community Woodland is mostly used by dog walkers it is a perfect place for the children to unleash their inner wild and fun side. The woodland is criss crossed by numerous paths, that either lead through trees, heather or wind themselves alongside a stream. Whilst exploring, children might just come across a perfect climbing tree, a swing, a pond, or even a fishing hut for some ‘impromptu’ picnics.
East Links Family Park
This is a great place for the children and adults – Go-karts, Sand pits, Sledging slope, 4 Level Fortress, Jelly bellies (our boys’ favourite), Crazy Gold and of course the Safari Train which takes you through the fields to meet the park’s animals (Highland Cows, Goats, Donkeys, Deer, Guinea Pigs, Geese, Ducks, Prairie Dogs, Llamas, Wallabies…). There is a lot to do at this park and lot of fun to have and if it does not rain it is even better. More info
