Family-Friendly 4-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Scotland

Day 1: Explore Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Edinburgh Larder

Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients and delicious baked goods.
Located in the heart of the city, easily walkable from most central hotels.
GBP20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Edinburgh Castle

Discover the historic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock and home to the Honours of Scotland.
Located on the Royal Mile; it's a short walk from The Edinburgh Larder.
GBP40 for family pass, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mary’s Milk Bar

Enjoy a delightful lunch of homemade soups and artisan toasties, perfect for families.
Walk down the Royal Mile, approximately 10 minutes.
GBP30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Scottish National Gallery

Explore an impressive collection of art spanning from the Renaissance to the 20th century.
Just 15 minutes’ walk from Mary’s Milk Bar.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Arthur's Seat

Take a family hike up to Arthur's Seat for stunning panoramic views of the city.
A 20-minute walk to Holyrood Park; allow for 30 minutes for the climb.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Witchery by the Castle

End your day with a magical dining experience at The Witchery, nestled near the castle.
A short 10-minute walk back toward the Royal Mile.
GBP100, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Visit Stirling

Stirling, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dreadnought Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Scottish breakfast in the charming environment of this friendly hotel.
Located within Stirling's city center before setting off to the attractions.
GBP30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Stirling Castle

Discover the rich history of Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's grandest castles.
Stirling Castle is just a 20-minute walk from the hotel.
GBP40 for family pass, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Smithy

Refuel with homemade tavern classics using locally sourced ingredients.
Less than 10 minutes’ walk from the castle.
GBP35, 1 hour

1:30PM

The Wallace Monument

Climb the 246 steps for breathtaking views and learn about William Wallace's legacy.
About 10 minutes by car or taxi, with ample parking available.
GBP30 for family pass, 2 hours

3:30PM

Battle of Bannockburn Experience

Engage with interactive exhibits to learn about this pivotal battle in Scottish history.
Just a short 10-minute drive from the Wallace Monument.
GBP30 for family ticket, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Kilted Kangaroo

Taste hearty pub food in a family-friendly atmosphere with an extensive menu.
A 15-minute drive back to the city center.
GBP70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Discover Loch Ness

Loch Ness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Highland Café

Dig into a cozy breakfast with mouthwatering pancakes and freshly brewed coffee.
Drive approximately 2.5 hours from Stirling to Drumnadrochit, right on the shores of Loch Ness.
GBP30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition

Learn all about the legendary Loch Ness Monster through engaging displays and videos.
Located just minutes’ walk from The Highland Café.
GBP30 for family ticket, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Boat Cruise on Loch Ness

Embark on an exciting boat cruise searching for Nessie while soaking in the stunning scenery.
Board the boat from the nearby docks.
GBP70 for family ticket, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Lovat Hotel

Enjoy locally sourced meals with beautiful views of Loch Ness from the terrace.
Less than 5 minutes from the docks.
GBP50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Urquhart Castle

Explore the ruins of this ancient castle, remarkably set against the backdrop of Loch Ness.
A quick 15-minute drive from the hotel.
GBP30 for family ticket, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Nessieland

Visit this quirky family attraction featuring exhibits and a Nessie-themed play area.
Just 10 minutes’ drive back toward Drumnadrochit.
GBP50 for family pass, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fiddler's

Taste traditional Scottish dishes in a warm atmosphere while enjoying live music.
Located in Drumnadrochit, about 10 minutes from Nessieland.
GBP80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Inverness Adventures

Inverness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mustard Seed

Gastronomical delights with a wide-ranging breakfast menu, catering to all ages.
Short drive from Drumnadrochit to Inverness, approximately 30 minutes.
GBP40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Inverness Castle Viewpoint

Visit the viewpoint for stunning views over Inverness and the surrounding Highlands.
A short walk from The Mustard Seed.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Whisky Distillery Tour

Experience a family-friendly whisky tour to discover the making of Scotland's famous spirit.
Approximately 15 minutes' drive from the castle viewpoint.
GBP40 for family ticket, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Caledonian

Enjoy a relaxed family meal with hearty dishes and a focus on local ingredients.
Only a 10-minute drive from the distillery.
GBP50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Culloden Battlefield

Step back in time at the site of the historic battle, exploring interactive exhibits and memorials.
Drive for about 15 minutes from the restaurant.
GBP30 for family ticket, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Black Isle Bar

Finish the trip with dinner at a cozy bar renowned for its locally sourced dishes and craft beer.
A 15-minute drive back to Inverness city center.
GBP60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability