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Inverness, the unofficial capital of the Scottish Highlands, makes for a great holiday destination for the whole family, with a plethora of attractions in and around the city that promise fun for all ages…
We’ve compiled this guide and updated it for 2026 of things to do on a day out with the kids in Inverness. Whether you’re a local looking for new family activities or you’re travelling in Scotland with your kids, you’ll find something for a fun day out with this guide.
Things to Do on a Day Out with the Kids in Inverness
2026 Spring/Easter Activities with the Kids
Easter Events in Inverness
- The Great Easter Egg Hunt – don’t miss the GREAT Easter Egg Hunt, fun fills the city; the kids will love the face paints and activities. Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th April 2026 11am – 4pm.
- The Victorian Market Easter Egg Trail, another fab Easter activity for all the family, plus young and old will enjoy a visit the Bad Girl Bakery located inside the Victorian market for some delicious sweet treats. This fabulous bakery made La Liste, so you can be sure of something special.
- The Loch Ness Centre has lots to enjoy this Easter, including Nessie’s Easter Egg hunt which you can explore Easter Friday to Monday.
- Visit Farm Ness has lots of Easter activities for you to experience, including lamb feeding daily at 10am and 2.30pm make sure you book online, enjoy all the animals and don’t forget the exciting play area!
- Inverness Botanic Gardens – is the perfect place to enjoy the Spring blooms and if it’s still a little chilly enjoy their tropical displays. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for their Easter trails.
- Urquhart Castle & Fort George will run their Easter Eggs-plorer Trails this Easter from Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April 2026
Explore Inverness City Centre with the Kids
There’s lots to see in Inverness city centre for the whole family, so take some time to explore the sights! Wander around Church Street and its surroundings, perhaps popping into Inverness Museum & Art Gallery. There are downloadable kids’ worksheets available for the museum so the little ones can hunt down Roman coins or find facts about the Jacobite rebellion.
The NEW Inverness Castle Experience is a must-see this spring. Wander through immersive light installations, powerful storytelling rooms and beautifully curated spaces that celebrate Highland culture and history. Don’t forget to read our First Hand Guide to the Inverness Castle Experience before you go, so you don’t miss a thing.top tip if the little ones’ legs get tired, simply hop onto a hop-on, hop-off tour bus for an easy way to see the sights.
After you’ve explored the city centre, you could make your way along River Ness and to the nearby Ness Islands, connected to the mainland by bridges. The Ness Islands offer a nice and gentle walk, suitable even for short legs. You’ll feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city! Kids can play hide n seek in the trees, and throw stones in the river; for the adults there are benches and plenty of good sized rocks or patches of grass to take a load off your feet and relax.
Days Out with the Kids Looking for Nessie
What visit to the Highlands would be complete without a bit of Nessie hunting? Get the kids in the car and drive down to Loch Ness, see if you might catch a glance of one of the world’s most famous cryptids and best players of hide n’seek in the world!
Arriving on the western shore of the loch, 12 miles from Inverness city centre, you’ll be able to board the Loch Ness by Jacobite cruise. You’ll take onto the deep, mysterious waters and learn more about the history of the loch. You can also combine your cruise with a visit to the majestic ruins of Urquhart Castle which served as inspiration for the 2013 animated film, Brave. Pack some binoculars and see if you and the kids can spot the legendary Loch Ness Monster – or at least some birds!
After your cruise, you can continue a couple of miles down the road to visit the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition. The centre was reopened last year after a rejuvenation, it focuses on combining light-hearted entertainment and education on history and science. The result is a theatrical experience with a chance for kids to touch and feel real exploration equipment for themselves. Kids under six go free.
If you are feel scientific then you can book a Deep Scan cruise on Loch Ness. The Deep Scan vessel is captained by local skipper for The Loch Ness Project, Captain Alistair Matheson, you will be welcomed on board the vessel, Deepscan, named after the Operation Deepscan expedition famously carried out on the loch in 1987. The vessel is one-of-a-kind, takes up to 12 guests on a journey through the past 40 years of scientific research into the mysteries of Loch Ness. Witness the breath-taking beauty of Urquhart Castle and search the depths of the loch using world-class sonar equipment on board.
You can pack a picnic or try Antalla at Dochgarroch. An-talla is located at Dochgarroch and a super location to see some of the Caledonian Canal, there are signs to explain how the locks on the canal operate and perhaps the children will be able to see some boats making their way up and down the canal.
Beastie Boats, Loch Ness
A top suggestion for things to do on a day out with the kids and perhaps more so the teenagers in Inverness! Take your family on an exhilarating Beastie Boat ride down Loch Ness. The Beastie Boat is a fabulous new addition to a day out in Inverness.
The Beastie Boats are brought to you by the much loved and trusted Jacobite Cruises!! Your fabulous adventure begins on the shores of Loch Ness at at Foyers Pier on the south side of Loch Ness, 19 miles from Inverness city centre. We recommend using the what3words app with the words “hiker.ambitions.hinted” to find us.
When you arrive at the dock you will see a large serious looking 12 man RIB perfect for an hour of thrills on Loch Ness. Robbie or one of his super team of skippers will be your host and captain for your exhilarating adventure on Loch Ness. Enjoy speeding your way down the vast Loch Ness, taking in some truly special historical sights but at a much more exciting pace.
Your captain will not only fill you in on the history of the castle, he will make sure you we got a fantastic view from the water. It is an exhilarating adventure, one the whole family will enjoy even those hard to please teenagers. The trip is available to children aged 5 plus, 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Why take this trip? My kids now adults still talk about their Beastie Boat adventure and we are planning another one this year. I think it is that the Beastie Boat brings you much closer to nature. The RIB definitely offers a more personal experience than its larger counterparts.
NEW Loch Ness Monster Exhibition Centre
The legendary story of Loch Ness Monster awaits you at the new Loch Ness Monster Exhibition. It started with the sighting of Nessie, then a global media frenzy and now a worldwide legend.
The history, science and research is presented in the newly re-imagined Ness experience including the myths, legends and facts so you can join this unique tour experience for all ages! Find out more here.
Indoor Days Out with the Kids in Inverness
On a rainy day, a visit to Inverness Leisure Centre is a surefire way to burn off extra energy. You can hit the swimming pool together, or the kids can take on the climbing wall while you relax in the bistro. Alternatively, head to the Inverness Ice Centre for a spin on the ice, skates are available for hire.
Frankie & Lola’s offers a jungle-themed soft play area and midweek toddler toys during term time. They also have a cafe with healthy, homemade food as well as some tasty cakes for you to treat yourself with while the kids play. A great option for the kids on a wet day.
The Inverness Botanic Gardens see below for more information.
In the evening you can take the children to the cinema to enjoy a movie at the Vue cinema or Eden Court Theatre.
Outdoor Activities with Kids and Teens
Whin Park, Inverness
Whin Park is a great destination for a day out with the kids especially in the summer months when the weather is sunny. The park has climbing frames, slides and lots of room for ball games as well as an amazing 7 ¼ inch gauge Ness Islands miniature railway.
The fabulous miniature locomotives are a must visit with the kids! You will enjoy an exciting journey over ½ mile long, it will delight adults and children.
The Rolling stock consists of 3 mini locomotives, all have their individual names.
First is Uncle Frank who is a 2006-built, petrol-powered chain-driven 1-1-B0PH. It is a scale version of an EMC E1 diesel locomotive. It has a 9HP Single-cylinder Honda engines, and were built by Knightley Railways (Roger Greatrex). “Uncle Frank” arrived to Ness Islands Railway in 2015.
Then “Uncle John” is a 2005-built, petrol-powered chain-driven 0-6-0PH. It has a 9HP Single-cylinder Honda engines, and was built by Knightley Railways (Roger Greatrex).
Last but not least is “Chrissy” a 2012-built, 2-cylinder 0-4-2T locomotive which was built by Peter Beevers, and arrived on the railway in September 2012. She was rebuilt to her present condition during the winter of 2016/17. She is a “Tinkerbell” class locomotive.
Opening Hours: during term times they are open weekends from 11:00am to 4:00pm. During the local school holidays we are open every day from 11:00am to 4:00pm. See their Facebook page for daily updates on opening. The railway operates from Easter to the end of October, it is weather dependent as those heavy down pours can make the tracks too slippy, however the team run as often as they can.
The park is about to undergo a much anticipated update this year, we look forward to sharing more with you soon. The park offers toilets, a shop, a cafe and a boating pond with rentable rowboats. The Park is located close by the Botanic Gardens and can make a lovely way to spend the afternoon.
Top Tip: When you stay at the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa Whin Park, Boating Pond, Miniature Railway are only a 20 minute walk along the lovely banks of the River Ness or a 5 minute drive.
Inverness Crazy Golf
This local treasure is a fabulous day out with the family, whether young or old, you will be guaranteed to have fun!! The new Nessie hole will be open soon. There is a kiosk where you can try and get the kids to make healthy choices, everything you would want juice, ice cream, sweets so much choice in a wee place. After your round take a seat at the picnic tables, enjoy the wonderful landscape, the Cherry trees in Spring are beautiful.
The crazy golf is run by Gus and his Mum Beth, they will give you a warm welcome. Can’t recommend this more for a fun afternoon for all, plus only a short walk from the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa.
Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens Floral Hall, Gardens and Coffee Shop is a unique visitor attraction, entry is by donation, there is no charge. It offers a tranquil break amidst beautiful floral displays. Opened in 1993 it has been inspiring local gardeners and visitors from all over the world ever since.
The gardens have introduced a Spring Scramble this year, a special trail for the kids and they are planning another Autumn Adventure for the kids! It really is well worth a visit and short walk along the River Ness from the Palace Hotel & Spa. Top Tip: Combine a trip to Whin Park and then relax with a coffee and a chance to warm up amongst the wonderful floral exhibits.
Farm Ness
A gate to plate experience the farm runs all the way from the banks of Loch Ness to the Inverness City boundary. There is a small farm shop and takeaway hot food van selling our own produce. Today the farm is run by Donald, his dad Donald and his mum Mary, although the family have been farming this land since the 1930’s. Donald, and his partner Joanna, established Farm Ness.
The farm is 3000 acres, with 250 acres of malting barley. A herd of 200 cows, 800 sheep, 2 woolly pigs, 2 Highland cows, 5 pygmy goats, a gaggle of geese, a wee flock of hens and 2 British Black Bee hives. You may recognise the Farm from TV, in 2021, the Farm appeared on the BBC’s ‘This Farming Life’, you can watch on iPlayer in series 5.
Farm Ness has a fabulous play area which includes:
- Sand Pit – a large sand pits with mud kitchens, see saw, sit on diggers and beach hut. With a range of apparatus including pots, pans, buckets and Bruder toys. You can bring your own toys for the sand pit.
- Pedal Tractor – there are a range of different ride on pedal tractors including a variety of sizes to suit different age ranges. Plus a variety of implements to attach onto the back of the tractors.
- Animals – not just goats, there are lots of different animals at Farm Ness and including bunnies in a huge paddock that like to say hello, Alpacas, Woolly Pigs and Highland Cattle.
- JELLY BELLY – this is one of my friends kids favourite activities!! The Highlands first Jelly Belly, Air Bouncer, it is super fun and very popular with adults and children. Note that Jelly Belly closes when it is raining as it is too slippy, however when the rain stops the team dry it off for the fun to begin again.
- Bale Mountain – is very popular with lots of different games.
- Straw Pit, is a large straw pit for all ages of children, from babies to teenagers to full grown adults! Many hours are lost in here!
- The Goats, the goats are said to be the best thing about the Farm, they all have different personalities. There is always a member of staff to chat to and learn more
Culloden Battlefield
Older kids can also appreciate the historical significance of Culloden Battlefield, located just outside Inverness. Help their history lessons come to life with a guided tour of the battlefield of the Jacobite Uprising in 1745 and a visit to the interactive, 360-degree immersion theatre that lets you experience the battle firsthand.
Fort George, Inverness
Fort George, is a spectacular place to explore, it is one of the most outstanding fortifications in Europe. It was built in the wake of the Battle of Culloden (1746) as a secure base for King George II’s army.
The imposing fort was designed by Lieutenant-General William Skinner and built by the Adam family of architects. Fort George took 22 years to complete, by which time the Jacobite threat had subsided. But it has served the British Army for the almost 250 years since.
There is so much to see and do at Fort George, you can explore the ramparts which are longer than 1km! To help you understand the scale of the fort, visualise that the fort provides an enclosed space the size of 5 football pitches. There is an on site Highlander Museum, discover the grand magazine were the gunpowder was stores, see the barracks, were the lives of the soldiers have been recreated.
The ticket price includes an audio tour using your own mobile phone. It really is a magnificent day out! There are regular events, one of the calendar highlights is the Celebration of the Centuries, this year 8th & 9th August 2026.
Great Days Out Less than an Hour From Inverness
Landmark Forest Adventure Park
Landmark Forest Adventure Park is a thrilling destination for a day trip from Inverness all year long, offering rides and attractions like a shooting gallery, a tropical hothouse and optical illusions. The park is located in Carrbridge, a half-hour drive from Inverness, and offers a selection of restaurants so you can spend the whole day exploring.
Treezone
For a bit of an adrenaline buzz, head to Treezone on the Rothiemurchus Estate in Aviemore, 45 minutes outside Inverness. Here, you’ll find a gravity-defying aerial adventure course that offers a great workout plus some amazing views of the Cairngorms National Park. The course is suitable for kids aged 8 and over, and kids under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult.
Highland Wildlife Park, Kincraig
A fantastic day out for the whole family, adults, children and teens will enjoy their day at the Highland Wildlife park. There is so much to see, from cheeky monkeys, Scottish wildcats to Scotland’s only polar bears there really is something for the whole family. To find out more about some of the animals you might meet on your visit see here
Highland Folk Museum
Welcome to the Highland Folk Museum, where you can step back in time and experience life in the Highlands from 1700s to the 1950s. There are over 35 historical buildings onsite for you to explore and discover how people in the Highlands lived, worked, went to school, enjoyed their leisure time. Outlander fans may remember and be interested to know this museum has featured in Season One filming. There is no charge for the museum instead a donation is advised. Cars are charged at £2 for parking. It really is a super day out.
Stay in Inverness with the Palace Hotel
If you’re looking for a home base for your Highlands adventure, look no further than the Palace Hotel & Spa, Inverness. Our family-friendly, family-run hotel is centrally located on the banks of the River Ness, overlooking Inverness Castle, offering easy access to all the attractions in the city and further afield.
Take advantage of our leisure club: the kids will love splashing around in the pool while you enjoy a relaxing steam or sauna, while our food menus are packed with kid-approved classic dishes for refuelling after a busy day.
Check out our family packages to find the perfect accommodation option for your family. To book, call us on 01463 22 32 43 or email us at Palace to #bookdirect.
