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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Derry to Edinburgh?
The direct drive from Derry to Edinburgh is 241 mi (387 km), and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 24 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Derry to Edinburgh, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Glasgow, Belfast, Stirling, Ayr, Perth, Falkirk, Portrush, Linlithgow, and Dunfermline, as well as top places to visit like Logan Botanic Garden and Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park, or the ever-popular National Trust - Mount Stewart.
The top cities between Derry and Edinburgh are Glasgow, Belfast, Stirling, Ayr, Perth, Falkirk, Portrush, Linlithgow, and Dunfermline. Glasgow is the most popular city on the route. It's 6 hours from Derry and less than an hour from Edinburgh.
Portrush Whiterocks Beach is a picturesque coastal area surrounded by limestone cliffs. The beach is renowned for its numerous caves and diverse water sports activities. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing casual walk on the lovely clean beach while taking in the beautiful scenery and meeting friendly locals and their dogs. The beach also features massive sand dunes, providing an excellent challenge for those inclined to climb to the top.
One of the best beach I visited in northern Ireland.
I think it was longest beach seen in N.Ireland. Beach is famous for white rock door and many good location for weeding photography.
OMG Water was crystal clear and beach sand was nice.
I really enjoy bathing and quality time woth family.
Must Visit Place!
Jaldeep Patel — Google review
Breathtaking view of the whiterocks, relaxing and nice place to visit. Scenic views.
Karla — Google review
Super beach and a super surfing spot. Great amount of parking space here also has showers and toilets.
Michael MC Connell — Google review
Beautiful beach! Clean sand. Great for young kids.
Jimmy Joe — Google review
I'm so in love with portrush 💕the beach is so beautiful I’ll definitely come back again💕
May A — Google review
Very windy
Not enjoyable at all.
It’s completely not a beach point. Very unpredictable weather situation.
Yaseen Arshad — Google review
Free to walk onto. Parking is a bit of a nightmare but there are plenty of spaces at off peak times. Very much a picturesque North Coast beach.
Matthew Reid — Google review
Such a pleasant way to spend an hour or two. Nice long stroll to the white rocks and back and bracing salty air. Well kept beech. Walking through the surf to the white rocks is a particular favourite of mine.
Gareth — Google review
Amazing views. Good food. Cosy markets.
Evening strolls by the Irish sea. Visit to the Ramore head.
I had a great time at Portrush. I took a bus to Portstewart and spent a beautiful evening there as well.
RS — Google review
This stunning beach is definitely worth a visit. Wherther you want to go horse riding, swimming, surfing, body boarding, or just go for a walk. Clear sand, clear water and beautiful views. There are sand dunes to climb and caves to explore.
The road down to it is narrow so do take care. There is parking but this was almost full on a freezing cold Sunday morning in March.
Tim Gaston — Google review
Great wee walk along the shore. From East Strand Car park to the Whiterocks and back. About 60 mins. Also, massive sand dunes that you can climb to the top, its a great challenge to test yourself. Other than that, it’s grrreat!
David Stewart — Google review
Lovely clean beach just on the outskirts of Portrush.
Ideal for a nice casual walk to clear the mind, expect to meet friendly locals along the way and their dogs who need you to throw their ball for them. Beautiful scenery as well.
Plenty of parking available.
Killian Mullen — Google review
Beautiful beach had an elopement shoot here with a newly weds! Flew from London straight to the beach for the shoot. Amazing two days in Belfast.
Roshni Photography — Google review
4% as popular as Glasgow
14 minutes off the main route, 12% of way to Edinburgh
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is known for its association with RMS Titanic. The city has a revamped dockyard area called Titanic Quarter that comprises the Titanic Belfast museum, Harland & Wolff’s Drawing Offices and the Titanic Slipways. These locations now host open-air concerts and offer a glimpse into the legacy of one of history's most infamous ships. Visitors can explore Belfast as part of day tours that also include attractions like Giants Causeway and Dark Hedges on Northern Ireland Coast.
84% as popular as Glasgow
15 minutes off the main route, 21% of way to Edinburgh
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Ayr, a charming town on the southwest coast of Scotland, is known for its rich history as a former royal burgh. As the administrative center of South Ayrshire Council and the historic county town of Ayrshire, it boasts a population of 46,982, making it the 15th largest settlement in Scotland.
9% as popular as Glasgow
6 minutes off the main route, 75% of way to Edinburgh
Glasgow, a seaport city situated on the River Clyde in the western region of Scotland's Lowlands, is renowned for its impressive Victorian and art nouveau architectural styles. This remarkable heritage can be attributed to the city's economic boom from the 18th to the 20th century, facilitated by trade and shipbuilding activities. Presently, Glasgow has evolved into a prominent national cultural center, hosting esteemed establishments such as Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, and National Theatre of Scotland.
Most popular city on this route
6 minutes off the main route, 85% of way to Edinburgh
Stirling is a city located in central Scotland, known for its historic landmarks and attractions. The old town features Stirling Castle, situated atop a rocky volcanic outcrop, while the National Wallace Monument stands on the Abbey Craig overlooking the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Visitors can also experience interactive 3D displays at the Battle of Bannockburn Experience to learn about the history of this conflict.
27% as popular as Glasgow
17 minutes off the main route, 87% of way to Edinburgh
I'll never travel to Edinburgh without this trip planner again
Perth is a Scottish city situated on the banks of River Tay. It houses numerous tourist attractions, such as the Fergusson Gallery that showcases 20th-century Scottish Colourist John Duncan Fergusson's paintings and his wife Margaret Morris' works. The Black Watch Museum at Balhousie Castle is another noteworthy place people visit to see uniforms, medals, weapons, and paintings related to the Black Watch regiment.
7% as popular as Glasgow
33 minutes off the main route, 88% of way to Edinburgh
The Falkirk Wheel is a remarkable and distinctive boat lift that was constructed in 2002 to link the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. This modern engineering feat features a rotating mechanism that raises vessels by 115ft from one canal to the other. Visitors can embark on boat trips departing from the lower basin, which pass through Roughcastle Tunnel before completing their return journey via the wheel.
What an amazing experience. The sun was shining. The trip was excellent. The Captain and Crew were knowledgeable and really funny. The engineering aspects were incredible and the views spectacular. Ended the trip with lunch at the Boardwalk. Highly recommend both.
pam birtle — Google review
For the mechanical-minded and water-loving sorts, this is a must visit. There are many family-oriented activities in and around the Falkirk Wheel. Great for a day out, as there is a cafeteria and store on site. There seems to be ample low cost parking. There is no other cost to visit, unless you take a boat ride on the Wheel and canal, or participate in one of the other on-site activities.
Jeremy H. — Google review
An astonishingly beautiful piece of engineering that's more like a work of art. The views from the top are fantastic. Don't forget to check out the light show in the Falkirk Tunnel a short distance along the Union Canal heading towards Edinburgh - magical.
Brian Kennedy — Google review
amazing boat trip, boat was packed so would recommend booking before hand. all staff were really polite and helpful, coffee cakes etc all available there too! gift shop had loads of options.
lauren perkins — Google review
The world first and only rotating boat lift. It’s a fantastic innovation and unique piece of boat lift to connect the surrounding Canals. Well worth the visit to explore the area and admire this amazing engineering work 🏴
PH PC — Google review
I have lived here all my life and never been here. I wasn't disappointed. The boat ride was really interesting and was good to learn all about it. The crew were amazing and very knowledgeable. The views are spectacular. It is definitely something to experience. There is a cafe with outdoor seating so you can enjoy a coffee and cake whilst watching the wheel in action. And of course a gift shop with plenty of items. A great day out for all the family.
Sharon Noble — Google review
Really amazing! Very cool bit of engineering, and the park for the kids within the facility is fantastic. Caters really well to families and the amenities are well kept. Really looking forward to taking a canal boat down the Falkirk wheel in the future. Definitely recommend.
Alex Sewell — Google review
An original place to spend time with the family. It has a very large playground and the walk around the place is very good. You can see how the boats rise on the wheel to continue their journey through the canal. it is worth the visit. Don't miss the colored tunnel located in the upper part of the canal.
Javisa Australia — Google review
Stunning piece of engineering designed to raise and lower boats between (I hope I have this right) the Falkirk Canal and the Forth and Clyde canal. Getting to and walking all round the Wheel is free but you can pay to do a boat ride that takes you up and down in the wheel or you can just watch this happening. There's a large a friendly cafe there. Not very easy to access on public transport. I took a train from Edinburgh and cycled. I've included a video of the wheel in action.
Angus Hamilton — Google review
A wonderful piece of architecture. I was full of admiration for how it worked and it still works very well. My journey here took me 5 hours, I was so happy that I finally managed to see it and the weather was good. I recommend spending time there with your family, There is a playground, a shooting range, and water balls and I plan to finish building water rockets for children to shoot at. Inside there is a shop, 1 large restaurant and a stand for buying sandwiches and coffee, toilets and beautiful works of local artists. The area has 2 access roads, 3 large parking lots, and pedestrian and bicycle paths. The entire area is green, but wear a warm jacket or sweatshirt because sometimes it is windy and you will be cold. I recommend it, I will come here again.
The price of parking is favorable, see the photo in the gallery how much it costs to park.
Kinia K — Google review
Went to visit the Falkirk Wheel in January 2024. Unfortunately the wheel was under maintenance work but most of the wheel was lit up and we were still able to visit and see the wheel. Lots of fun too. Also huge respect’s to the owners of the site as there was maintenance happening the car park was permitted as free. Huge thanks to the respects there!
kindness ARK — Google review
Lovely site,something I've wanted to see for sometime. We were able to park beside the shop being a blue badge holder! As the cafe was packed we bought the most amazing hot chocolate from the mobile coffee van, delicious!
Susan Bradford — Google review
As a tourist destination this has everything you expect. Expensive coffee, expensive food a gift shop and something to look at.
To be fair, parking is free and there is lots for the kids to do, just happens that we're adults so I have to be fair in review.
The kids playground was nice and if you wanted to avoid paying parking at The Kelpies they are just a 90 minute walk along the canal.
It was interesting to see the Wheel spin but unfortunately due to high winds boat tours were not running.
If it's your first time in Scotland, got kids with you or you're particularly interested in Canals this place is an obligatory stop.
Robin Steer — Google review
Great engineering matter. Must see near to Edinburgh, Stirling or Glasgow. Wait for moving, a ship flows in, the carousel moves and the ship is high above you and goes on direction glasgow. Great experience. I also recommend taking more time for a longer walking around the wheel. The nature scenes with views are beautiful, good for your healthy and they are amazing places for your photography. After walking don't hesitate to refresh yourself by a coffee in restaurant next to wheel.
Robert Fillner — Google review
We recently visited her in May half term, we managed to get parked fairly easily, there is a charge for the car park. The wheel itself is very interesting to see, we booked for a ride on the boat up the wheel and along part of the canal and back. It was reasonably priced and you receive information about the wheel and history of canals on board. We really enjoyed it as a family.
We also played on the water balls on the surrounding water which the children loved and the little boats. The staff were friendly and we didn't have to wait long. There was also a play park there.
There was other activities you could book there such as bike hire and archery however we didn't book these.
There was toilets, food and coffee vans as well as a shop for souvenirs.
We had a fab few hours here and would definitely recommend a visit.
Victoria Topping — Google review
If you are into amazing engineering then this is a must see if you're anywhere nearby. Essentially it is a boat lift which lifts canal boats from the lower canal up 35m to a higher canal via a huge wheel, thus avoiding the need for multiple locks. Plenty of information and a visitor centre, plus well laid out canal side walks linking various places of interest and local towns and villages. Very interesting.
Steve Mann — Google review
An engineering marvel and must see , enjoy a trip on barge (do book it) or just walk around the park. Walk to the top and see the barges load up , you can also walk though the tunnel and over the top back. At the bottom there’s a kids water play area (see pics) and you can also hire SUPS.
Spencer Hudson — Google review
Good signposts to get to the car park. ANPR is used for the car parking. Drop off is free, take the ticket at the barrier, drive down, drop off, drive back to the barrier, scan the ticket and drive out. 20 minutes is the limit.
Payment for parking is via ticket validation at the yellow machines, card only.
This is an amazing piece of engineering and physics. We managed to get tickets for the last trip of the day, which was just a full rotation of the wheel as there was not enough time to have the full trip before the attraction closed. The guides on they trip boat were fantastic, they were informative, funny and ensured everyone was safe and enjoyed the trip.
There are quite a few activities around the area including the Antonine Wall, the canal tunnel, walking trails, water balls, shooting range, a playground or you can just watch the boats.
Inside the visitor centre there are information boards on how and where the wheel was made and built. There’s also a restaurant, a gift shop, toilets and a parking payment machine.
It’s well worth a visit, we can’t wait to go back to do the full trip, but this time book a trip time in advance.
Dave Holland — Google review
We visited on a wet day but this meant it was quiet, great gift shop and cafe and you can book a boat trip to experience the wheel in motion. Really is worth watching it in action. Lots of side attractions to spend more time. Free to see the wheel and only needed to pay for parking, £3 for as long as you needed, definitely worth a visit.
Sarah Welek — Google review
It wasn’t very clear how the place works. We looked around for ticket prices or times for things but wasn’t easy so sort of gave up. Tried to play mini golf but couldn’t get the kit. Other people were playing and we went to the hire place and it said golf was opening soon go there, but golf had a sign to go to hire. Gave it 10 mins and gave up as patience of a nearly 3 year old is thin 😂
Everything looked closed so maybe just bad timing. Looks like in the summer could be really good. Visited April Easter holidays.
Melanie Comerford — Google review
An amazing feat of engineering. We were given a lot of information by one of the staff a really well worth trip. Unfortunately, when we were there, the basin was drained whilst they undertook engineering work. Buy still worth the trip.
David Trenbath — Google review
Excellent solo visit midweek during half term. Admired watching the wheel operate from the hill (near segway) before descending to the visitor center. Grabbed a delicious macaroni cheese for lunch, the cafe was buzzing, lovely friendly staff. Booked the last 90 min wheel boat ride. There was clearly lots of activities to keep you busy, but I just admired this marvel of engineering and its many photographic opportunities. The tour was great and well worth doing. Something quite surreal about ascending and descending silently afloat. Plenty of parking, clean, ample toilet facilities, cafe and coffee bar with indoor seating, and gift shop.
Rebecca Grimbly — Google review
One of a kind engineering wonder that will make you wonder what's next?
A great place for kids and friends to explore.
Try the gift shop and don't forget to buy some tablets.
No not the iPad or android kind. It's a snack. Ask the store keeper.
Mahmoud Nowaz — Google review
Although we have been a few times, the weather was good enough for us to pretend we were tourists and it didn't disappoint!
We went with our now 6 year old son. There were plenty of activities for him. He chose to do the wee paddling boats, and then we played with the archimedes water pumps, which im so glad are back in action! Super cute! Then we went into the playing area until it was our time for the boat trip.
The ticket was a bit pricey, but we thoroughly enjoyed it! The guy doing the commentary was funny and engaging. Got some stunning photos!
100% recommended to both tourists and non-tourists! #falkirk #falkirkwheel
Abbas Aliakbar — Google review
Unfortunately we visited the Wheel during its maintenance time, but a friendly Scottish gentlemen with a black Labrador informed us that it would be back in operation in March. I wasn’t bothered it wasn’t running, just looking at it and reading about the facts of the Wheel was enough for me. There was a gift shop and coffee shop in the visitor centre so it was nice to enjoy a coffee and scone and looking at the Wheel. We shall definitely come back to see it again. It’s worth noting that if you are a Blue Badge holder like my fiancé is, parking is free when the Wheel is operating. In the winter months the barriers are up so any vehicle is free which I think is really nice.
I’ve put I recommend booking tickets in advance purely because when the Wheel is operational again I expect it’ll be busy, so save yourself some time and get the tickets online.
Can’t wait to come back!
Kathryn Hall — Google review
13% as popular as Glasgow
10 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Edinburgh
Linlithgow, a charming town in West Lothian, Scotland, holds great historical significance as the former county town of Linlithgowshire. Situated on a historic route between Edinburgh and Falkirk beside the picturesque Linlithgow Loch, it offers a glimpse into ancient Scottish heritage.
3% as popular as Glasgow
9 minutes off the main route, 91% of way to Edinburgh
Dunfermline is a Scottish town, parish and former Royal Burgh situated on elevated terrain approximately 3 miles away from the northern banks of the Firth of Forth. The estimated populace of the town is around 58,508 people. According to records kept by the National Records of Scotland, the surrounding Greater Dunfermline region has an aggregate population of roughly 76,210 individuals.
3% as popular as Glasgow
14 minutes off the main route, 91% of way to Edinburgh
Best stops along Derry to Edinburgh drive
The top stops along the way from Derry to Edinburgh (with short detours) are Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Stirling Castle, and Riverside Museum. Other popular stops include The Falkirk Wheel, Culzean Castle, and Five Sisters Zoo.
Mount Stewart, a grand 18th-century stately home in Northern Ireland, has undergone a dynamic three-year makeover costing 7.5 million and completed in 2015. The estate boasts formal gardens filled with sub-tropical plants, as well as nature trails for visitors to explore. A tea room, gift shop and bookstore are also available on site.
Possibly the most impressive house I have ever been to. The building itself is mindblowing and the volunteers know so much about the property and its history. There are some downstairs sections at the start but quite a few stairs are involved and there was no sign of a lift. I don't know if dogs are allowed inside the house, but there are ample gardens to explore and plenty of walking space on top of that.
Henry D — Google review
Gorgeous surroundings for a walk, there's multiple to choose from. Cafe has just been refurbished and has a good selection and not too expensive. The main house is worth a look round, absolutely stunning inside. Covid measures are in place throughout. Parking can get quite busy, not nearly enough parent and child spaces.
Nicola Douse — Google review
We spent a half day here which was worthwhile. The house was big and had lots of history in it. Nice walks, views and gardens. You can have your lunch as there are many benches. Plenty of public toilets available. It's advisable to bring your own lunch and drinks as the cafes were always so busy.
Rosemary — Google review
One of my favourite places. Beautifully kept grounds and a large lake with swans. Lovely big house which us now open to the public again. Short walk round the lake or walled garden. Longer walk to a view point or couple of mile walk around the perimeter. This one has hills and at the minute is very muddy!!!. In the summer therea bands on and its a great place for picnics. Very sheltered on a bad day. Lots of parking.
Tracey Crawford — Google review
An outstanding historical house and gardens with informative tour and very good facilities including cafe. Enjoyable through all seasons. Combining the walking trails (south of the entrance) with the gardens offers a couple of hours of walking with plenty of interesting heritage and natural beauty features. It’s worth walking up to the Temple of the Winds to take in the Strangford Lough views.
Jonny Greig — Google review
Stunning house set in wonderful gardens. The staff were very knowledgeable and chatty. We really enjoyed the time here. The gardens are substantial, but I didn't feel they deserved the accolade of being one of the top 10 gardens in the world. They are a bit overgrown in most places and a bit sparse in others. I suspect they are suffering from lack of care through the COVID years. Having said that I'd definitely recommend a visit.
Sandy Small — Google review
Beautiful house and gardens. Very great for photographers and walkers. Very colourful in the autumn due to the large amount of trees near the lake. Definitely one of the best National Trust sites in NI!
Ewan — Google review
Beautiful house with an amazing interesting collection, a homely mansion house where the owners still reside. Gardens are beautiful and offer a range of walks for all ages.
Angus Spence — Google review
Visited 31/12/2022 using family membership (highly recommend, great value). Lots of parking (car park 1 & 2, car park 1 has child spaces and disabled parking too). lots of accessible, well maintained paths, great for bringing little ones . Lots of people walking dogs and water stations for dogs at locations around the site. Cafe is at the visitor centre along with the gift shop and good seating (including wall bench) for the cafe including outdoor. Great national trust site and highly recommend a visit
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wasim Mir — Google review
Lovely drive no matter the weather. The Ards peninsula is beautiful. Didn't find a lot for the kids here other than the walking trails but they did love building a den at the nature park. A family ticket cost £32 which is strong money in my opinion. We enjoyed our day but will be a while before I would be back.
Adam Wady — Google review
Beautiful castle, interior with a beautiful colour scheme of the ( green ) coulered walls and floors.
Beautiful gardens. Really one of the best we have seen. And we have seen a lot.
And if possible do our greetings to great volunteer Colin with a friend in Vriezenveen. He is great.
Gerard Van Den Bos — Google review
One of the most beautiful gardens I've ever been 😍 Staff are lovely and very welcoming. Villa it is just marvelous.with really interesting facts and beautiful antique paintings and furniture. You can tell ,people who are working in Mount Stewart are really passionate about their jobs and it shows !!
Thank you and we will definitely be back
Kaya Rybak — Google review
Beautiful place and beautiful park. Would recommend entering the main house as well. A lot to see inside the main building. Many very important pieces of history that are worth seeing. Gorgeous place overall. The most beautiful National Trust location I’ve seen so far.
Rait Metsamaa — Google review
One of the most impressive gardens I have seen at a National Trust property.
There seems to be adequate parking here. I managed to find a shaded spot in the first one.
You walk through the start of the garden past the coach house exhibit to reach the visitor reception.
The house is just beyond this at the start of the lake walk.
The volunteers in the house were knowledgeable and friendly. Lots of interesting artifacts to look at and information boards to read.
After that I took a path following the lake perimeter. The variety of plants is stunning and very well maintained.
I then visited the gardens to the rear and side of the house which are spectacular.
I only had the chance to spend a couple of hours here due to my schedule. You could easily spend all day here if you had time for a picnic.
Gavin Williams — Google review
What a wonderful visit we had at the National Trust property at Mount Stewart. Most of this beautiful stately home was open for public viewing. An amazing glimpse at how the aristocracy lived their lives. The house, gardens, lake and walks were just superb. Even in late summer the gardens were beautiful. Highly recommended visit.
Tom Saunders — Google review
A beautiful place, historic house, amazing formal gardens and woodland walks around the lake and the wider Demesne. Also a lovely tea room and shop.
James Rainey — Google review
Very dog friendly and people friendly too. So many hidden gems on the expensive and well maintained gardens. You could visit many times and still find things you haven’t seen and places you missed. I loved it more than even Hampton Court. The food was great and the entire staff is friendly and welcoming. I love this place. This was my second visit and I plan to go again and again.
Samara — Google review
Amazing place. Guides were very interesting and entertaining. Expert local knowledge.
Don Famorca — Google review
Once the stately home of Lord and Lady Londonderry and now being looked after by the National Trust. Beautiful gardens to explore in all seasons
William Lindsay — Google review
4.7
(3024)
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4.5
(1068)
Portaferry Rd, Newtownards, BT22 2AD, United Kingdom
Logan Botanic Garden is a vast garden featuring an array of palms, tree ferns and eucalyptus groves. The garden also boasts a walled garden, conservatory and pond with koi fish. All the plants and trees are labelled for easy identification, making it easy to explore this well laid out attraction. It's a popular visitor destination with friendly staff throughout the site including at the potting shed cafe and small gift shop.
Outstanding visitor attraction. Well thought out with plenty to see and do.
Super friendly staff throughout the site including the potting shed cafe.
No dogs allowed in the garden but there is shaded parking out front.
The range of plants that thrive here are amazing. It's well worth a visit if you're in the area.
Nick Toms — Google review
What an incredible garden, even in the wet! Our family had such a fantastic time here, we'd highly recommend it to anyone. Just wish there were a few more hours in the day so we could have seen all of it. Plants are well labelled and there's lots of paths to explore, we especially liked the ones through the bamboo forest. After exploring round the ponds we found a great selection of gluten-free AND dairy-free cakes in the tea room.
Matthew Grant — Google review
Even late in the year it looks amazing.so much to see,all these wonderful plants. Had a soup and sandwich in the cafe which was also lovely.
Not a cheap place to visit but very good.
mark morrell — Google review
The gardens are beautiful. So many different plants and trees to take in. And when the weather is sunny there are plenty of open spaces to sit and enjoy the heat. Also a great cafe/restaurant to get some food while you are there. Highly recommend!
Steven Wyllie — Google review
Really nice botanic garden. Plenty of walks, beautiful plants, good way to spend some time relaxing. Cafe with nice and fresh sandwiches. It was getting busy around the midday so I suggest to visit first thing in the morning.
Mr Mikey — Google review
Stunning well kept gardens with beautiful shrubs and trees. Well thought out for landscaping but not for disabled. Biggest problem is the wheelchair route isn't great for people in wheelchairs who have spinal issues. Most of the paths are gravel and like a bone shaker in a wheelchair.
Paula Baguley-Hems — Google review
It was a fabulous day here in late October. Light winds but 13 deg! Visited here over 40 years but didn't actually appreciate the pure tranquillity and beauty of the gardens.
Worldwide information on plants with some amazing connections.
There are various paths designed for wheelchair access.
The potting shed cafe is a must either for your brunch or lunch. The homemade scones are fabulous. Lovely friendly staff. 5☆
Diane Wright Reflexology — Google review
A well laid out garden - all the plants/trees are labelled. All areas easily accessible - we were there in late April and most of the rhododendrons were in flower. There is also a pond with koi in it. It was a nice place to spend a couple of hours, there is also a cafe and a small gift shop. There were also a lot of pheasants roaming about.
Moira Baird — Google review
We visited on the way to the near by lighthouse and enjoyed a quick visit ( because of the cold and wind).
There is plenty to see here and a decent cafe so in the warmer months, we could of easily stayed for a full day, which would make a really good and cheap day out....... we would definitely return in the summer months.
John Dodds — Google review
Wow! We have visited the gardens in Edinburgh several times over the years and I am an RHS member so, whenever I have lived close enough I go to Wisley regularly.
I was very impressed at Logan it is charming and very interesting, growing plants from all over the world very successfully due to the North Atlantic Drift which improves and keeps temperatures more stable than other parts of Britain. It is definitely well worth visiting.
Sally Duncan — Google review
Such a stunning garden and so many palm trees! Visted in end of March and garden was already blooming and full of life.
Margrét Ásgerður Þorsteinsdóttir — Google review
This garden was very nice and we had a very nice day the temperature was about 17 that day march 19th on a week day
showaddypaddy 1 — Google review
Is worth it to pay £10 ticket to view all the flower and tree,nature is the best part for our next generations to come
Elisa Thong — Google review
Beautiful gardens, £8 entry fee. Free parking. A wide selection of beautiful exotic plants,water features. On site cafe and gift shop. Worth a visit. But … One staff member a little abrupt when making enquires. So points dropped for that. No need for it.
Mandy Wilson — Google review
A beautifully maintained garden with ample parking places. A very friendly greeting in the shop, and very knowledgeable staff. A wonderful place to explore for the afternoon. The little café was a delight too with plenty of choice and reasonably priced food that was made to order with quality ingredients. A very enjoyable visit and I look forward to returning.
Sprouty Zig — Google review
What a lovely place. Really well cared for collection of plants from all over the world. A truly unique assembly of plants in an amazing setting. The cafe and all staff were brilliant too. Glad we made the journey.
Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park is a 19th-century castle with antique furnishings and artwork. It also boasts formal gardens and a natural park that serves as a wildlife sanctuary. Visitors can use their English National Trust card for access to the castle and garden, which are both stunning. The gardens offer a diverse array of plants and trees, some of which attract local animals. The contrast between the wild paths and manicured garden adds to the experience.
A warm welcome at the entrance - and you can use your National Trust card (English one) for the castle and garden. The garden is stunning although I think today, I have just missed the rhododendrons in their full glory. There's such a variety of plants and trees to see and it feels wild and untamed as you wind your way along the paths - which must be a haven for wildlife. And then there's the contrast of the formal garden. Just now and then, you get a glimpse of Brodick bay and the surrounding mountains. The castle was lovely and as always your visit is enhanced by the ultra- knowledgeable volunteers. Highly recommended!
Claire Hill — Google review
Very well taking care of. Great interior, replica of the piano resembles one from Buckingham Palace. Lovely garden and beautiful estate. Can spend half of the day just wondering around. Very neat pine-corn summer house. Castle situated very beautifully with wonderful views on the water. Staff was exceptional and had many great stories to share.
Oxana — Google review
It's a shame the castle is covered in scaffolding. I did appreciate the inside of the castle and loved the staff being able to tell us more about the rooms. The gardens are an absolute must for anyone visiting the Isle of Arran!
Mika — Google review
Had a fantastic visit to the castle and gardens. The guides were lovely and very welcoming and the castle has been well looked after. There is also a trail for younger visitors to follow. The entrance is via the shop. There is also a cafe.
We visited about 20 years ago and the place looks the same and is better.
At the side of the shop are some Victorian games plus a grand national game. This is game where you throw a ball and get it into a hole and move the horse along. Tokens from the till in the shop.
The gardens are fabulous. The plant hunters walk and the Bavarian Summerhouse is a must. Enormous tree ferns are fantastic it’s like being in Jurassic park. The amount of rare plants including the Rhododendrons growing in the garden is unique to Arran due the micro climate. The views from the garden are lovely. The walled garden is beautifully set out and the silver trail is interesting as there are various sculptures some you can play.
When we visit again we will be returning.
Angela Williams — Google review
Brodick castle is absolutely amazing. I keep returning here every year learning something more about history. The gift shop is great too and everyone is really friendly at the entrance gate too. There is nice cafe restaurant as well for refreshments. Love this place👌❤️
Spiry Jey — Google review
Beautiful castle and grounds, reasonably priced for family ticket. Kids had an absolute ball doing the mice and safari hunt. Huge well done to Alec in the castle who gave a personal tour to my little ones, they were engrossed when he was telling about the history, made it so interactive for them. He even took the time to show us items of particular interest to us (as we are nurses and there was a photo of one of the royals in nurse uniform). Kids loved the adventure park. Great day out.
Allison Burns — Google review
Fabulous National Trust of Scotland property with excellent gardens and tree lined walks within the grounds. Also, the castle is definitely worth a visit. The top point is seeing red squirrels, these very endearing animals are a must-see from the purpose built hide. This is highly recommended if you ever visit the Isle of Arran.
Ron Kemp — Google review
Beautiful gardens to explore with imaginative play areas for kids. When we visited the azaleas and rhododendrons were displaying an amazing array of colours! Fascinating collection of trees carefully planted to make this beautiful parkland, including one by HRH Princess Elisabeth in 1947 way before she became our longest reigning monarch. Castle well worth visiting too and the dog friendly cafe serves hearty soup and tasty subs for when you've expended your energy exploring.
SA Neil — Google review
There is something for everyone here. The castle was very interesting with plenty of rooms to explore and staff to chat to about the history of the place. The country park has gardens, play parks, and many other things to see, such as the Bronze Age Roundhouse!
The cafe near the main car park was nice and offered a good range of cakes, snacks and drinks, as well as indoor and outdoor seating.
I would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Arran.
Billy Jolly Music — Google review
A red sandstone, 13th century castle on the Isle of Arran, Ayrshire.
I had to double check myself. Thought I was in Glasgow's west end.
The castle nestles in the shadow of goatfell mountain which stands at 874metres, the highest point on the island.
The woodland gardens are stunning.
Paul Narloch — Google review
Dropped in for a quick visit one afternoon when I'd finished having a look round the shops in Brodick. I got in free, being a NTS member, which was great as I didn't have much time. Part of the front of the castle was covered in scaffolding, but part was free of it and I was able to see what the building would look like without the scaffolding. Inside there is a small shop with some nice souvenirs at reasonable prices. The most striking part of the castle was (I thought) the wall with all the stags heads displayed. I felt a bit sorry for the stags though... Outside there are nicely laid out gardens. A nice way to pass a couple of hours, or more.
Susan Ferguson — Google review
The castle (or stately home) was interesting, but not my cup of tea.
The grounds were extremely impressive. It was lovely to see the red squirrels and birds in the hide (sorry about the poor quality of the video), the cheeky little squirrel 🐿️
Jason Whomack — Google review
Outstanding attraction. Huge site to explore. Sadly the castle was partially covered in scaffold but you could still go inside. The iron age roundhouse was a bit of a trek & unless I visited the wrong place, had burnt down some time ago - the views were good though. Brass band playing at the café was nice. Well worth a visit in my option!
Nick Toms — Google review
Not visited for over 10 years. Catering better for children visiting with a very good play area. There's also a treasure hunt in the castle to keep them amused while adults can admire the interiors.
The exterior fabric is being maintained at the moment so there's scaffolding.
Lots of walking in the extensive grounds. Bus service to castle meets the ferry but you're better walking back because the timetable isn't frequent.
Michael Stone — Google review
Worth a visit as part of a day trip to Arran. Impressive stately rooms and grounds plus some nice outdoor modern art sculptures. Foot passenger prices are less than £10 return and it's a couple of mile walk or bus to the castle or take your bike for free on the ferry but do book it on.
james ferguson — Google review
I did not go inside to see the castle the day I went, but I did pay the admission to visit the gardens, which were worth it. They have many lovely walks all around the property, heading all the way down to the water and through the woods, and you can see a lot of wildlife in the area. Check out the squirrel hide, where you can catch a glimpse of red squirrels. And afterwards, make sure and stop at the café near the car park. They had some excellent selections.
Culzean Castle is an impressive stately home that was designed by Robert Adam and built in the 18th century. This Scottish National Trust flagship property is situated on a cliff top, which provides a dramatic view of its surroundings. The castle boasts a lavish round drawing room and an oval staircase, as well as an orangery, aviary, deer park and Victorian vinery. A smaller-scale recreation of the castle serves as a great play area for children.
Absolutely stunning castle. Joined the National Trust Scotland and this was our visit day out.
Came on 19 February after Storm Eunice so the castle was closed but the grounds were stunning. Will be back in the Summer!
We had a dog with us so was nice for her to get out and go a walk too.
Not busy which meant we were able to walk around and get some clear photos too.
Castle was closed, can't take pup into the castle.
Really good maintenance of the gardens, stunning to look at.
Very peaceful too, and the deer park was beautiful, make sure you don't miss it after driving in (there are alpaccas there that we didn't see until we drove out!)
Amanda Martin — Google review
Brilliant day out with the kids so much to do and see. The castle is a must full of historic values for both young and old 😊, then you have the walled garden beautiful in its own right and the play areas for all age groups. You don't need to worry about food either the country kitchen has plenty 😉.
Wendy Graham — Google review
After a stunning country drive, Culzean is a throwback to the past. There is much to offer; the country park and access to the public toilets require entry fees per person. The tour of the castle is just a few more pounds. One could spend hours walking the country park, and a couple more in the castle. The gift shop is accessible without the tour. Parking is simple; it's about a quarter mile from the castle.
Michael McAlexander — Google review
What a wonderful location and stunning views out towards firth of Clyde and along the Ayrshire coast. The gardens are well kept and ideal place for a picnic but there weren't many picnic tables about. There is plenty of benches around the castle and gardens. The ice house is under the walkway to the castle. It only has one room but has information on the wall. The inside of the castle is well laid out with plenty to see from paintings,furniture, instruments etc. But there just seems to be a lack of information about the items on show i.e you will see lots of paintings of different people but there is no information like who the person is, what's there connection to there castle. There were some staff members in some rooms and they were happy to answer your questions. There was a Lego quiz find the Lego figure's in each room and it was good fun if some times hard to spot them. Don't know if it's something they do all the time but definitely made you look a round the room. The toilets are located outside the main entrance.
John Rundell — Google review
Well worth a visit has walled garden, picnic areas, nature trails cafe and toilets as well as great views from the castle. The place has massive grounds so it's an all day event. If you don't have National Trust passes would recommend getting day pass from them as it save a couple o quid rather than paying at the door.
Allan Gray — Google review
Really great place for a full day family outing.
The buildings and grounds were fantastic - top quality collection of arms. We left a lot of money at the gift shop! They also have a really good second hand book store.
But the gardens! Amazing gardens - especially enjoyed the glass houses with peaches, grapes, cucumbers; and the wildlife garden for bugs and beasties.
Chris Cameron — Google review
An absolutely stunning building on the outside, sat within beautiful grounds.
But, wait until you get inside..the rooms and stairways certainly give the wow factor.
We bought a guide book and were going to walk around on our own (plenty of reading material on boards and cards in the rooms too), but the next guided tour had space and was just about to start, so we joined that, and I'm glad we did. The guide was engaging, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. She really brought the history of the house to life.
We got in free as National Trust members and spent most of the day here in June. To get the most out of your visit, I'd definitely recommend putting a whole day aside to visit.
I'd definitely visit again if I were up in Scotland, and spend more time walking around the grounds.
Tara Sanders — Google review
Fabulous historic manor house / castle. Lots to see, especially inside the castle. The guided tour was excellent, many thanks to our guide who brought it all to life. After we walked down to the beach for great views of the castle. Well worth the ticket price. We loved it.
Mark Poley — Google review
Fabulous day out at this beautiful place.
The Castle, gardens and grounds looking glorious in the sunshine.
We walked from Maidens along the beach then took the cliff path along to the castle, we weren't disappointed.
Lots to explore at Culzean, so make sure you go for a good wander around.
Follow the willow sculpture trail to see depictions of mythical sea and water creatures, great bit of fun for kids and adults alike.
Relax in the gardens, grounds or beach ( take a picnic) make a day of it.
A beautiful place, and a beautiful part of Scotland 🏴💕 enjoy.
brian cummiskey — Google review
Stayed at the castle in the hotel portion for a wedding on site and it was absolutely amazing. The staff was so attentive and friendly. The grounds and rooms were beautiful. The couple got married in the Camilla House. Truly a beautiful castle located right on the coast line with beautiful gardens. Highly recommend visiting when you have enough time to explore and walk all of the grounds. Truly cannot express how great the staff is.
Emma Marriner — Google review
What a cool castle! We have toured several castles throughout the UK, and this was by far our favorite. Everything gave you a real sense of how the wealthy people that lives there lived. As a suggestion, take the path down to the shore over to the side of the garden. It's really nice down there and looks like something from a movie. It's easy to miss the trail and stairs down there
Ian Robertson — Google review
Beautiful castle and stunning grounds over looking the sea. You can tour inside the castle for a charge, £6 I think. But we chose not to do this. As the weather was amazing, we decided to just explore the grounds, which are immaculate. There are plenty of trails around the grounds which are all sign posted. There are also some places to have a coffee, a cold drink or some cake. Also a visitors centre with a gift shop. We didn’t drive right into the main car park. I think there is an entry fee for this. We decided to park at the nearby town of Maidens and walk along the coast. This is a scramble over rocks so not suitable for those that have difficulty walking.
All in all, well worth a visit for some lovely views and relaxing walks.
James — Google review
Fantastic family day out with lots to explore. Big cafe and picnic areas. Electric golf buggy to help those who can't walk so far. Exciting coastal walk from the Gas house round to the Boat house.
Rosemary M — Google review
Lovely Castle with spectacular views of the sea. Run by National Trust of Scotland. Great walks around the grounds of various lengths. Deer park. Delicious food at the farm shop cafe too.
Jane Thomas — Google review
Beautiful Country Park surrounding the Castle. It's a Scottish National Trust property so there is an entrance fee.
It's quite expensive at £20 per adult for tickets but you can go around the Country Park for free from the next village at Maidens (free to park) if you don't mind a walk along the beach.
There's a path that takes you through the forest area via the swan lake to the castle that you can easily follow. There are quite a few steps up from the beach but are manageable unless you have mobility issues
Joyce James — Google review
Stunning location and beautiful castle.
The kids tour round the house is looking for Lego characters that have been specially made and are, people related with the house which our kids would have loved if we bought them with us😀.
The guide in the kitchen was excellent and really friendly pointing out and explaining all sorts of interesting things (Sadly we didn't get her name but Thank You).
David Taylor — Google review
We only made it to the beach this time as my daughter ran into the ocean and her legs started stinging with the salt. Eczema and salt water can be a tricky combination at times. But we are here regularly. We have a national trust card which is great and gives us access to not only here but lots of other places. The castle is definitely worth a visit of you have not been before. The playpark and adventure part are great for the kids and adults to have fun.
Clair Foster — Google review
Brilliant walks, loads for the kids to do, beaches are amazing. Lots of small things that make it interesting for the entire day. One of our favourites.
Allan Brown — Google review
Beautiful castle and its surroundings. Few trails to follow and walk around. Small lake is also alone the trail. I particularly enjoy the walled garden. You can also walk down to the seaside and see one small cottage, an accomodation for the tourists. Will come back in summer for sure.
Saou-Wen Su (Stephen) — Google review
The castle itself was lovely but was disappointing.
When you arrive you will be welcomed by the ticket office before you even get in the grounds and you have to pay £7 per head to get in.
This seems pretty expensive just to walk round the grounds as the castle was closed.
Other national trust Scotland castles are free to wonder round but you pay to go inside the castle which is reasonable.
Donald McIntyre — Google review
We visited Culzean in non-stop, pouring down rain but it still left a great impression. An interesting castle with massive grounds and so many things to do. Sadly we got quite wet doing the Easter trail so we didn't fancy going down to the beach this time but I would love to visit again if we are ever in the area. The restaurant was good and the staff here were friendly and good with children, not something you can say about every historical place. If you are a member of the NT or NTS then entry is free.
Ollie Fitton-Cook — Google review
Lovely family day out. Beautiful place. Well kept. Varied woodland walks and access to beach. Excellent play area for kids.
Diane Campbell — Google review
Besides the castle, there is also large area of woodland. The house is packed with furniture from the past, interesting place for everyone to learn some social history. Due to the weather conditions at this time of the year, the path around the house and the wood is rather muddy. But it is still one of the best time of the year to visit. Flowers such as Champak and Rhododendron are in full blossom.
Wai Lam Au — Google review
Raining all time we visited Culzean, which dampens ones Outlook of visit.Long walk into Castle from car park. One can only imagine life of staff in such surroundings. Extensive gardens, and impressive kitchen area: do spend time here. Owner was ahead of his time, making ice, gas for domestic use, various inventions, always conscious of attack from sea, again prepared. Enclosed garden and glasshouse usage, all impressive. Care is paramount( if like me you wished to take photos from beach, of castle, )as stones are lethal / slippery all along foreshore under cliff. I failed , whereas school kids on tour, skipped over these hurdles, to add to my frustration of old age. Interior of castle left me 'cold' with displays of armament at entrance hallway. Still, worth a visit.
Colourfully-painted castle on estate with raised woodland walkways and indoor/outdoor play areas.
Great day out with the family. Parking is £5 but the grounds are free to walk around and there’s a bus stop not far away. Lots of activities were on the day we went to keep the youngsters entertained. There’s a cafe and burger van selling burgers,chips,coffees,soft drinks and ice creams!
P Beer — Google review
A really great day out.
The walk up the glen through the forest is good, with land art to see along the way.
Our three-year-old loved the Secret Forest attraction.
Most of the park can be seen for just the £5 parking fee. The cafe food was basic but well made. Extras like the Secret Forest and the Play Barn were good value.
John Hartnup — Google review
This is the most amazing place! The walk up the gully and the art instalation was beautiful and peaceful. The castle is amazing and the setting is superb.
Great place for families. Only £5 to park for the day.
Carol Capaldi — Google review
Very cool castle covered in beautiful graffiti style art! Great place to spend a day and enjoy some walks. Looks like a great place for families especially.
There's no entry fee in general, but parking was 5 pounds on entry - and they take card payment too.
Lots of short easy walks in the Glen with the waterfall. The castle itself is not open to public. The gardens are pretty to walk around. There are multiple humongous playgrounds for children. Ice cream shop, souvenir shop, a couple of cafes all onsite. And a lot of family activities I didn't look at much (we don't have kids). Definitely recommend!
Sara Donaldson — Google review
Kelburn is our favourite place to visit. Only £5 parking and the estate is free. Great for everyone, of all ages. My wee one loves the wild west and the Secret Forest (separate fee for the SF) well worth it. A full day of fun, there's walks, lots to see including animals, and our favourite turkey, Franklin. The events are epic too, really great value for money and the actors are brilliant. Gift shops and cafe too, tho you can bring your own picnic... The Den is a great spot for that! Overall rain hail or shine it's worth it.
Louis Lindsay — Google review
Gorgeous grounds, the walks around the castle are incredible 😍 especially the waterfall and walled garden. We did the tour and can highly recommend it! Our guide, Addison, was amazing, super friendly, knowledgeable and made it informative and enjoyable. Will definitely be back.
Carol Vaughan — Google review
Went for a tour and cream tea. Completely worth the money. The weather helped as part of your is through the grounds and it was a beautiful day. Gorgeous gardens and grounds with lots to do. Castle tour was very interesting by very knowledgeable and passionate tour guide, Addison and lovely fresh cream tea at the end. Word of advice, there is a lot of walking and stairs so not great for infirm or elderly but Addison made time for my mum and didn't rush her. Appreciated it. Worth the money. Worth the visit
M Lawson — Google review
We came here for a day out with the dogs and were impressed by the vast grounds. There is lots to see here - not just your average forest - and much longer walks for the more keen walkers. We completed a nice circular walk with bridges and good paths. The scenery is beautiful. There's parking for £5, free maps, toilets, and a café. There's plenty of unusual outdoor entertainment for the kids too and the graffiti castle goes without saying. Definitely worth a trip!
Eilidh Black — Google review
Great place for a family day out, things to do for all ages, 2 play parks, some animals, nice walk through the park passing the castle and some waterfalls, mini museum of past life and the tools they used, nice little cafe, a shop and also a burger van. Highly recommend this place for a family day out...
Laurence Turnbull — Google review
We had a fantastic day here. Spent most of the day walking around the fantastic grounds. Plenty to keep the kids entertained.
We bought our tickets via Wowcher for £25. Parking here cost us £5. The grounds are free to walk around, we paid for the Spring Quest.
Staff are very friendly. Recommended
Paul K — Google review
Very nice place. A really good program for both children and adults. Two hours should be set aside to explore the park.
Evelin Türk — Google review
It is a good place for a family day out. It is recommended to visit this place in dry weather as it is a bit muddy when raining. The parking fee is £5 which is fair enough. The coffee shop was closed at 5pm so we missed that, but maybe next time. I can recommend this place.
Janos Turk — Google review
The most colourful castle I have visited on this trip to Scotland! Lovely place steeped in history, finished up in the cafe at the end for a drink, the guy's there a friendly and full of information 😁
Arron Roberts — Google review
First visit, late afternoon. Admission with a car just £5. Believe an Annual pass is £35 if you're going to go more often. Small cafe and information Shop. Lots to see, but be prepared to walk through windie paths and up and down steps. Not fully wheelchair suitable in some places. Didn't do the castle, a bit too late for us. Additional charge to visit the castle.
Chris McCoy — Google review
We love Kelburn, thought our 10 year old might be getting a bit too old but she still had a good time.
We were disappointed that the duck race didn't take place this year but it looks like that is at another event in June.
They are renovating as well so the gift shop was a lot smaller and the activity hut near the goats was closed too.
The secret forest activities are always good fun and Alice in Easterland was no exception.
The cafe was incredibly busy (it was Easter Monday) and took about 25 minutes to queue and then be told there was at least a 30 minute wait on food when you got to the front meant that some customers tempers were frayed slightly, better communication/more staff may have helped here.
Graeme Wilkinson — Google review
Great place to stroll around, nice walks & gardens, dog friendly, cafe, shop, children's play areas.
benji walker — Google review
4.6
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3.5
(389)
Kelburn Estate, Fairlie, Largs KA29 0BE, United Kingdom
Heads Of Ayr Farm Park is an enjoyable attraction with plenty of activities for all ages. Visitors can partake in various outdoor activities such as bumper boats, electric tractors, quad biking and trampolines. There are also several animals to interact with including alpacas, donkeys and Pygmy goats. Animal feed can be purchased at the entrance for those who wish to feed the animals. The park may not be suitable on rainy days as most of the activities take place outdoors.
Great place for kids. The soft play area was brilliant, both for older and younger kids. The food and drink was really good as well and we thought it was good value. The animals were great as well. It really looks like they have put a lot of money into the park over winter. We will definitely be back.
Keith Boyd — Google review
Very nice park, plenty of parking and lots of things to explore for kids. The animals are free to roam, the tran ride was wonderful, lots of trampoline and jumping pillows.
There are some issues, especially for parents with buggy and accessibility people. The trails for animals are at places paved with road or grit, which is good, however at places the trails are muddy which becomes slippery and difficult to navigate with buggy and I guess quite challenging for accessibility.
Abdul Hakeem — Google review
Fabulous fun for everyone here, with lots to do for kids including mini trampolines, zip line swings, and a little train ride. The miniature train does cost extra. You can buy animal feed for the alpacas, donkeys and Pygmy goats at the main entrance - frustratingly had to ask someone this part way round and then had to go back. I think a rainy day might impede the fun here as nearly everything is outdoors. It was great feeding the animals though - loved every second of that!
Helen Flanagan — Google review
Great day out for families, kids will love it. Loads of different animals to see. Loads of stuff to play on . A lot are free but there is stuff you need to pay for. Like to train etc. You can buy food in one of there cafes or you can bring your own , there is plenty of places to sit. If nothing else buy the ice cream it's to die for .
alisdair weir — Google review
The kids love it. They can feed the animals. Plenty of different parks to play. They love the bouncy pillows, trampolines, chutes etc. There are plenty of places to eat or picnic benches outside if you want to take your own picnic. There is also a soft play area & cafe which do lovely cakes! A nice wee gift shop to finish your trip.
Fiona — Google review
Absolutely love it. Great day out & worth the money. Animals are well cared for & relaxed. So good to see them up close. Big indoor eating area with lots of choices. Loads of outdoor eating areas which are all over covered or open so if you choose a picnic there is plenty space. Inflatable pillow for kids & big kids. Well stocked gift shop for your treasured souvenirs or gifts. Just go & experience it for yourself 🐒🐫🐾🦌
Eleeze Waggitt — Google review
A really fun place to take a family, we went midweek so a little quieter, make sure you bring some cash and plenty of coins for inside. My 4 year old loved it
Sam ?Shaka Zulu? Ward — Google review
We had a wonderful day there during our holiday nearby.
Both children (aged 5 & 10) enjoyed it, there was so much to do keep everyone entertained, there was plenty of space so even though it was busy it didn’t feel it, the food is delicious and the gift shop has an excellent range of products at reasonable prices.
Would definitely go again if we were in the area.
Nikki Knight (The Writing 4 Biz Lady) — Google review
Didn't realise exactly how big the place was, we took our own foldable seats as one of the party needs to rest often but they were not needed as there is plenty of seating available all through the park. Birds and animals were brilliant, although we couldn't see some of the birds in their enclosures but nevertheless it was a great day. Shame about the seagulls though, most of the time the kept their distance but were very present whenever there was open food, witnessed one child have their lunch snatched away
Lee carruthers — Google review
A great fun park for children with lots of play equipment and a little railway train you can board. Quite a lot of animals which you can feed with food purchased on entry. We didn't like the main food area so instead we went next door to the stables cafe which was nice
Avril Britten — Google review
Great farm park a stone's throw away from Haven's Craig Tara park, hours of fun for kids between the playparks and the animals.
There's also a restaurant that serves lovely food for all ages - I can recommend the loaded fries with black pudding and haggis!
Entrance is a bit pricey but you definitely get your money's worth!
Gareth Thomason — Google review
We went to the Christmas family fun at the farm park so my daughter could see Santa. She was also very excited to see the new little baby goats that's she's been waiting not so patiently to see. She ran about and burned off some energy at the soft play, had lunch, got a cuddle from the Gringe and had a little chat with Mrs Clause before going to see Santa. Then a little look around the little critters barn and had a chat with Sammy the Cockatoo after seeing the baby goats and giving little baby Olaf a stroke. All in all she had a fab 3hrs.
Ticket prices are slightly higher for the kids at just under £20 and adults are just under £8. I didn't mind paying that price tho as the toy from Santa was a fairly good toy she will get a lot of enjoyment out of (friendship making kit) and they still need to make money for the upkeep of the animals over the winter months.
Food was really nice as well and the fact I can get vegan cakes for the little one with her allergies is a big plus for us.
Clair Foster — Google review
Well worth every single penny spent a good few hours with the kids here they loved it and can't wait to go back
Amy Marshall — Google review
Loved our day here, especially feeding the goats, all staff at ticket desk, in the gift shop and in the restaurant were lovely, the stone house kitchen on site was a good choice for lunch, the food was absolutely incredible, we had the mac and cheese burger and the classic farm burger, great portion size and quick service - will definitely be back!
Brogan Sutcliffe — Google review
What a brilliant day out so much to do. We came with our 7 year old. Had a fantastic day.
My son loved feeding the animals (Feed £1 per bag from the ticket office or gift shop) as we went round.
He really enjoyed the small quad bikes (£6).
The bumper boats (£2)
Train ride was a good way to see some of the animals (£2per person)
Lots of play areas to choose from. Large slide, zip wire. We took a picnic lots of places to sit and eat.. also lots of toilets dotted round.
Overall worthwhile day out.
Steph — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyed our visit last week despite it being very rainy! Loads of animals and clean enclosures. Loads of indoor and outdoor play areas for kids.
Food in the restaurant was absolutely amazing - credit to the chef! Restaurant is stunning too.
Will definitely return and recommend to others.
Kirsty Holmes — Google review
We should have an option to give more than 5 ⭐️.
This place is magic. Kids and adults , all of us had an amazing time here.
You can feed the animals ( they sell it for a nominal price).
You can pet the animals. Petting sessions in afternoon.
So so many animals. Cleanliness is maintained and proper information setup everywhere around the farm.
Kids have quite a lot of options for playing as well.
Jumping pillows were a hit amongst us. 10 am - 5 pm will just go so quickly. Plenty of food options but worth bringing your own lunch.
Definitely worth coming back again . Highly recommended. Cheers
kumar kanishka — Google review
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4.5
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Dunure Rd, Alloway by Ayr, Ayr KA7 4LD, United Kingdom
The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is a museum that houses manuscripts, books, artefacts and artwork related to the poet Robert Burns. The museum is located in the cottage where Burns was born and spent his early years. The Museum features humourous audio and visual performances which will keep children amused. If you want to explore the birthplace of one of Scotland's national bards, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is an excellent place to start.
Run by National Trust and free to members. It costs £11.50 for other people to visit. This provides access to the museum and cottage. You can see the cottage where Robert Burns lived and follow a trail to the museum. Along the trail are sculptures relating to Robert Burns. You can also see Alloway Auid Kirk, the church yard where Robert's parents are buried which is free to enter. There is also a Burns monument and gardens which are worth a visit and are free to enter. There is also a Brig O Doon bridge worth visiting for the views along the river. The museum contains Robert Burns work and stories of his life.
Lynn Higgins — Google review
We visited Robert Burns' birthplace in June and then walked over to the museum.
Really interesting places to visit, with a lovely sculpture trail in between.
As National Trust members, we got into both properties for free.
The gift shop has lots of great things to buy, from books to chocolates, fridge magnets to stationary.
Tara Sanders — Google review
We were very impressed. The museum was excellent. Loved the way it was laid out and appropriate for all ages. Beautiful modern building. Excellent cafe and shop. Grounds were lovely with an interesting walk to the cottage. All very well maintained and informative.
Lesley Wearmouth — Google review
Museum is interesting, if a little darkly lit. The cottage was the best bit. The village is beautiful and the church and bridge are worth the walk. We enjoyed our day. The shop has some nice gifts.
Lunch in the cafe was really disappointing, waited ages for burnt toast and rock hard poached eggs, but we thought maybe they are struggling to get staff at the moment.
Debbie Aske-Harris — Google review
Nice way to while away an hour or so, not a huge amount to learn but some interesting snippets. If you are a big Burns fan you will probably love it! Fab little tea room and park and nice walks to other attractions
Dalla2 — Google review
This National Trust site is about Robert Burns’ life. It’s a very lovely, modern museum and building. The museum is topical rather than linear, but gives a view of his life and works. (I wish there was a life timeline but otherwise very nice.) It takes around 30 minutes at a moderate pace, and is a bit dark but with plenty of seating on edges.
Facilities also include gift shop, clean toilets, a kids area outside, and lovely large cafe.
Note: The museum ticket also includes the cottage a 5-7 minute walk away.
Becky T — Google review
Lovely place. Lots of great displays in museum and well stocked shop with books, fabrics and things for the kids.
Cheerfully received at reception.
Enjoyed the grounds and looking at the Monument and the 'Brig' where Tam O' Shanter rode away! Cottage was a few minutes away from centre and easily accessible. Interesting tour of Cottage given by the guide.
While there you can have a decent snack meal or cake in their café. All in all we enjoy this place. Recommend a visit. Have been twice already with our National Trust membership.
Martin Pond — Google review
This museum is very well laid out and has a very varied amount of exhibits and information about Robert Burns.
Plus the cottage where he was born is just 10min walk or 2min drive along the road is also worth a visit.
Both places have a free car park.
The museum also has a gift shop and cafe.
Steve Allchin — Google review
Going into the museum you have to pay.. its not free.. there is a shop and a tea room and an outside to eat and drink while you sat and watch your children play in the playing area. Further round the corner there is a Beautiful monument about Robert Burns and Tam O'Shanta that, its a lovely area to walk around and admire the scenery and the Brig O Doon too. That is free to walk about.
Robert Clelland (Rab) — Google review
Displays in the museum are excellent as are facilities, the cottage, Brigg o Doon and memorial etc. Cafe restaurant, shopping and toilet facilities were second to none. Lovely day spent just wandering, viewing, thinking, imagining and remembering with love of Burns and Scotland.
William Murray — Google review
Modern museum with a nice, very busy cafe. Many interesting Burns original letters and documents, but the handwriting and dim lighting (necessary for preservation) make them hard to read - transcriptions should really be supplied. Worth combining with Burns Cottage, Monument, Auld Kirk and the Brig o' Doon for the full experience.
Simon Ongeri — Google review
Everything about the Bard himself all under one roof. There is access to the cottage where he spent his early life included in the entry price too and its a short walk away. There is a good selection of goods in the shop and a very generous sized cafe all with disabled / pram access. Large outdoor play area for the children.
lynne mellstrom — Google review
Very informative museum with great interactive things for the kids. Play area was good for kids of all ages outside and the cafe looked nice and was busy. Short walk to the Brigadoon bridge and monument, where you can climb to the top and and enjoy views over the area. Can walk from here to the Burns cottage via the Poets Path as well. Parking was free and toilets on site
Mighty Red80 — Google review
Visited while staying with family for the weekend, will definitely be back! Museum is great, loads of interesting artifacts and interactive displays. Nice touches for children, ours had fun with the interactive games and colouring.
The walks around the various places within the village are lovely and I didn't realise there was so much to see before coming here! We had a yummy lunch and then went out to the kids play area, which is very imaginative, then headed back in for a warming hot chocolate. I even managed to pick up my first Christmas decoration purchase of the year! Thanks for a lovely afternoon.
Tammy Gray — Google review
Interesting exhibition with original manuscripts but dark inside to protect them. Audio options allows you to hear songs and poems. Good cafe on site. Walk to Burns cottage, ruined church and graveyard, and BRIG O Doon part of the visit
June Morrison — Google review
Very nice museum and external area. Place offering a lot of information in interesting and interactive way. Full immersion in old Scottish language. Handy and spacious is also Cafe on site where visitor can have a rest with cup of tea or other delicacies. Entrance fee was 11.50 GBP for adult person. Along with the places around like park, church, bridge and cottage, I would recommend the visit.
Katka I. (Kappa) — Google review
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway extends to encompass a few sites of interest, including the house that Burns was born in. The museum itself is housed in a modern purpose built facility which features exhibits from various sources, not necessarily always owned by Burns himself, to illustrate his life. For instance, the museum exhibits the earliest known English guitar, an instrument that Burns was know to play. The centre has a fully equipped cafeteria for indoor and outdoor eating, and the entrance fee includes admission to Burns' house some 10 minutes walk along the road.
Steve Galloway — Google review
Lovely centre with information about Robert Burns and his life. Occasional events and displays worth visiting. Roomy cafe with lovely carrot cake and hot drinks. Pleasant helpful staff.
Susan Montgomerie — Google review
Every display and area is meticulously kept and walking the grounds and surrounding area was most enjoyable. Plenty of parking available with ample and clean toilets. Staff was extremely warm and welcoming. A must experience! Don’t forget to look up when you enter the first room!
Betta Rautio — Google review
4.5
(1763)
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4.5
(1159)
Murdoch's Lone, Alloway, Ayr, KA7 4PQ, United Kingdom
Hill House, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and situated in the Upper Helensburgh district of Glasgow, is a magnificent example of his finest architectural work. Featuring sumptuous formal gardens and stunning interiors, it is still popular with tourists today.
I have always loved Mackintosh and his wife's designs so it was on my bucket list to visit The Hill House. My visit was everything I hoped and more. The staff at the house were lovely, friendly and knowledgeable. It was so interesting being able to walk around the outside of the house while they dry it out. It is very cold inside the house so wrap up warm .The scones in the cafe the best I have tasted for ages.
Diane Hayes — Google review
One of the best places to visit, cared for by the National Trust. Jim one of the volunteer staff opened our eyes to the magic of this beautiful house. Fabulous both inside and outside. The walkway was amazing and the gardens beautiful. Will definitely be back again for another visit.
A house in a box - Who would believe it ? 🥰
Graham Henderson — Google review
What a fascinating building.
The rooms & story told about the family & the relationship with Charles Rennie Mackintosh made it come to life.
Beautifully preserved, do not let “the box” put you off. The fact you are able to climb up to the top of the gangway & see the building from above & amazing view was unique.
Good car parking & excellent roof terrace cafe.
Louise D-H — Google review
If you’re an architecture/ history lover, you have to visit the hill house, a masterpiece designed by Mackintosh. The house itself is absolutely amazing, from the delicate wood work to the high back chairs, from the lamp shade to the stained glass, it’s full of details and uniqueness! The staff there are super friendly and helpful, the food & drink in the cafe is very nice as well. It will be interesting to see the next step on this house, and hopefully see it without the steel frame in the next ten years.
YIXIN HE — Google review
A wonderful insight into the upper class of Victorian Scotland, the design movement at the time as well as modern conservation work.
The Rennie Mack design is utterly timeless, the furnishings are exquisite and the gardens beautiful, especially if you get good weather when you visit.
The house truly is a jewel, and I would dearly love to see it preserved for future generations.
Make sure to stop by the cafe for a Rennie Mack inspired empire biscuit- I'd have added a photo but I scoffed it!
Jim Stewart — Google review
Such a lovely visit to this Mackintosh gem. The house is very well curated and I particularly like how the team approaches the issues of preservation and artistic originality, letting visitors offer their views, too. The staff were very friendly and happy to answer any questions.
Kristina A — Google review
A very interesting visit around the house, with good information boards and a unique experience. Whilst the protective mesh is round you get a fantastic view above the house from the walkway. Staff were the best! So friendly and helpful, every one. Just be aware that it can be very chilly in the house so make sure you have some warmer clothes. Cafe also excellent.
Benjamin Guilfoyle — Google review
Went for a ghost hunt, and what a place to visit. Luckily, it was still daylight when we arrived. Wow, just wow, I rapidly lost interest in the ghost hunt as I was completely in awe of this stunning mansion house. It's a must visit if like me you love architecture and stunning interior design, even more so if it's Rennie Macintosh. Go see the Hill House you won't regret it.
Anne Mcleod — Google review
Great experience for the whole family. The design of the house was great, the staff was very friendly and helpful, they answered all our question about the house history, the family who lived there. There was a little treasure hunt for the children.
Eva Anchina — Google review
An amazing place to visit. Great to walk around inside and see the fab decor. Really interesting to see the conservation work - the Box is genius and allows visitors to get a different perspective of the house. Well worth a visit.
Rachel Roberts — Google review
All the staff members were so helpful! (If you have a youngscot card, it's only a £1!). It's such a beautiful house with so much history in it, and views from it are equally beautiful. We went during the week so there wasn't any wait and very little people.
Oliwia R — Google review
Absolutely stunning. Such a unique experience, walking over a house on the walkways, but the interior is what makes this place so special. Simple, elegant, restful. The cafe is also very nice and all the staff were so welcoming. Thank you for turning a rainy day into a highlight of the holiday.
Peter Mackriell — Google review
If you love all things Charles Rennie Mackintosh, or you're just an art or design lover, this is a fascinating experience.
We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and spent 3 – 4 hours at the house. During this time, we were able to carefully absorb the art and design within each room, sample tea and scones at the cafe, explore the rooftop walkways and visit the shop, which sold a good range of Mackintosh items.
After our visit to Hill House, we completed our 'CRM themed' day out by driving into Glasgow and then visiting the ‘Mackintosh at the Willow’ Tea Rooms.
22 Barend — Google review
Very interesting visit - amazing to see the house encapsulated and protected in the much needed 'box'. Fascinating interiors, interesting walk around the outside within the walkways of the box.
Jason Dempster — Google review
I last visited the Hill House about 30 years ago. I found it even more interesting because of the protective canopy and conservation work going on. It reminded me of Rosslyn Chapel when it had its canopy - you are able to climb up and see the whole building from outside. Plus a fantastic view over the Clyde.
As well as the house, we visited the cafe (great fruit scone) and shop. A bit late in the season and a wet day, so not the gardens unfortunately.
Barbara MacGregor — Google review
We really enjoyed our time in the Hill House. The staff were friendly and really helpful at all times. The house is currently undergoing restoration in a sympathetic manner but you can see everything even a birds eye view as you can currently walk right over the top on a gantry within it's protective shield!
Dave Jones — Google review
4.7
(1318)
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4.5
(746)
Upper Colquhoun St, Helensburgh, G84 9AJ, United Kingdom
Outstanding place to walk with several walks throughout the forest. Paths are well looked after and each route is easy to follow. The posts are labelled with different coloured bands so finding your way round is easy. My only suggestion would be is to add a few benches on the way round so you can stop and take in the beauty of the forest.
The Café is excellent with a good choice of food. We never tried the biking but from what we saw there was some excellent tracks to use.
Car park is easy to find and charges are reasonable (at time of posting)
Les Jones — Google review
Stopped for a meal. So glad I did. Immaculately clean premises. Extremely friendly and helpful staff. Perfect choice and excellent quality food. Good coffee too!! Oh, the toilets were spotless. Wow. Definitely will visi again.
Jane Murray — Google review
I found this beauty spot by chance while searching for somewhere to visit as the weather was superp. Free disabled parking which is very kind and considerate of them. It's only a short drive from the main road and the staff is friendly. We had a meal there and it was gorgeous! The Haggis & cheese toasty went down a treat. It's definitely worth visiting as they have several walks and cycle paths and also a short walk that is accessible for disabled people. I definitely plan on coming in the summertime to experience the dark skies.
Robert Bate — Google review
Lovely coffee after a great walking trail. Beautifully clean with a log burner that wasn't on as the weather was too warm. Dog friendly. Plenty parking too. Stunning views to The Big Hill
Patricia Yassin — Google review
Lovely, tranquil place. Staff very helpful & friendly & kept it spotless. Food & coffee was spot on. I will definitely return if I'm in this area again.
Mark Higgins — Google review
I absolutely adore this place. I stayed overnight in my camper for 2 nights overall whilst exploring the Galloway forest over a fortnight, and I worked from the cafe for a whole day too using their WiFi and power sockets for my laptop. The staff are so kind and friendly and knowledgeable, the facilities are spotless and very useful. I showered there on one day too and had a great 4 minute, hot shower for I think just £3.
I felt very safe as a lone female camping here for the night.
H B — Google review
Friendly staff. Good place for a picnic before your walk.
sasha robinson — Google review
Popped in whilst exploring the galloway forest. Did one of the walks and enjoyed experiencing the forest by foot
Gina — Google review
First visit to Kirroughtree forest today. Great place for walking running cycling lots of trails for everyone 😃. Cafe and information available 👍 will definitely visit again.
Elaine Lunn — Google review
Brilliant little place to refuel and understand the park a bit more. Friendly staff and prices aren’t that bad. A great place to fill up for fuel on the way on the long walks or to refresh afterwards.
Chris Harper — Google review
Great sausage rolls & coffee. The homemade cakes are excellent. This cafe could be more of an attraction in its own right if the car park wasn't so exorbitantly expensive. An hour free would be a great idea. Being nearly empty on a half term week means something isn't right..
Nick Toms — Google review
Great stop for a dog walk and some lunch on our journey further north.
Beautiful forest, well looked after and great amenities.
Caz — Google review
Stayed in the carpark in our motorhome as part of the forestry commission stay for the night scheme,.
Amazing place and a fantastic cafe in the visitor center, after a day hiking in the area and a peaceful night's sleep in the dark park zone we got up and went for a cracking cooked breakfast by Mo and co.
The area is stunning with some top mountain bike tracks. Well worth a visit.
Facilities and toilets were imaculate.
kev peterkin — Google review
Kirroughtree Visitor Centre boasts a delightful cafe, children's play area, and ample amenities, coupled with convenient parking. The serene sound of a waterfall in the vicinity adds to the ambience, though our dusk visit restricted our exploration. The 24-hour toilet facilities are equipped with accessibility features. While the centre provides an opportunity to enjoy the dark sky, the presence of floor lights hinders complete darkness. Alternatively, one can venture deeper towards the lake for a darker, stargazing experience.
The cafe closes at 3:30 sharp.
Travel Tips to enjoy:
For a pleasant journey from Ayr, consider taking A713, and opt for A762 and A712 instead of a single road from Glenlee to mitigate motion sickness, especially for those sensitive to sharp turns. Our initial stop at Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre confirmed its permanent closure, lacking accessible toilet facilities for children and the elderly, thereby hindering our enjoyment of the Dark Sky experience. Despite the scenic road, caution is advised for those prone to motion sickness.
On our return, we selected the A75 to Stranraer and A77 to Ayr routes, offering a picturesque drive along the coastline, albeit in darkness. Daytime travel would have allowed the kids to fully appreciate the coastal road.
The journey becomes long, but you can appreciate views.
Abdul Hakeem — Google review
Nice trails. Did the red loop 1 day which was ok. Started at the top of the black route another day, descents aren't great not many jumps if you like challenging ups and techy rock sections you will like it.
Not saying we didn't enjoy it but the ups weren't worth the downs we got in all honesty.
Just our personal preference.
Stunning scenery was a plus.
worn A — Google review
Came here with my husband, son and rescue dog whilst staying in Girvan. Lovely place to visit with stunning scenery and views. We also ate in the cafe which was lovely.
Roma Tennant — Google review
Great place for a family bike ride. Was particularly impressed by the friendly and professional staff at The Brake Pad bike shop who fixed my broken chain, quickly and at a very reasonable price.
Andy Bullivent — Google review
Offers a great place to park up and enjoy some very scenic paths whilst keeping clear of the downhill MTB's. Cafe looks great and free and clean toilets too. Even had water out for the dogs.
The paths are well maintained and signed too so you can stick to the route of your choice.
Small £2 fee for 3 hours parking, but that helps with the upkeep of the facilities.
Sam Nicholson — Google review
4.7
(940)
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4.5
(353)
Forest Dr, Newton Stewart, DG8 7BE, United Kingdom
The SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium is a centre that houses an incredible array of creatures from the sea. With walk-through exhibits and plenty of space to explore, this place is perfect for families.
We loved the sea life centre. They have some lovely attractions in there but April The Turtle was my absolute favourite!!
The staff were so friendly and there were some lovely views from observation floor at the top.
Gary Porter — Google review
This has to be one of the best sea life centres we have been to. Both children ( ages 2 and 6) loved it. Stunning views from the cafe, you can see right across loch Lomond.
Lots of sea creatures to see and educational bits as you go round. Hands on experiences too.
Price was one of the more reasonable ones we have been to.
Rachel Lightbown — Google review
Really enjoyed my experience at sea life today. The staff were very polite and welcoming and when explaining the turtles enclosure we were given a great introduction to her story. The receptionist was lovely and very welcoming. Only issue I had with this experience is it is very short for the price paid, however I did enjoy myself and Will be back !
Monty Psych — Google review
We’ve been here before and this time we took my mum along. Unfortunately I forgot it was the Easter holidays and the place was full of families with their kids. That being said you could still move around easily and it wasn’t that stressful. The observation deck is a must see as it looks out over Loch Lomond. There are plenty of animals and an interesting rock pool where you can touch some of the animals. You must read the story about their turtle as well, April her name is. A fantastic place and well worth the visit.
Daniel Marr — Google review
Must go for the kids.
They even have a quiz card where you need to answer by reading all the facts mentioned about the sea creatures . At the end if u answer all correctly they give a small gift for kids.
It also has a restaurant with a scenic view on 3rd floor which is awesome.
kumar kanishka — Google review
Its beautiful and well maintained aquarium. Very friendly staff. Located at a lovely site. View from the top of the building is amazing. Its a small and nice aquarium with few other visitors so you can spend quite a while glancing fishes. I had discounted tickets for this so definitely worth a visit along with my other plans at Loch Lomond.
Jyoti Agarwal — Google review
A really great place to wander around. Three levels, but only the ground floor has live exhibits which is a bit of a shame.
While I can see why they do the ten minute time slots, as things might get a bit cramped, it really is annoying!
The otters are adorable and I really recommend going during feeding time!
Alexander Waddington — Google review
Enjoyed this Sea life centre as we’ve been to a few. It’s a bit smaller than others which has four floors the top has a great viewpoint over Loch Lomond then there’s a cinema which was playing cartoons when we went great for young children and a cafe on one of the upper floors and the sea life attraction on the ground floor. Take your time and read the information and it’s worth visiting but we both think the Brighton Sea-life centre is better. Get in with the Kellogg’s BOGOF tickets when they are available ( like we did)and it’s a great place to visit.
Darren Keady — Google review
Booked last minute with no problem on getting a time. The staff were very friendly throughout. The aquarium displays are well laid out and plenty of things to see in each tank. Timed out visit well for feeding time and seeing the otters out in their enclosure.
Peter Jackson — Google review
Fabulous day out. It's not just an aquarium either. They have an otter enclosure too, a nice restaurant and amazing views over Loch Lomond from the observation deck. The tropical ocean tunnel is the highlight of the trip.
Anthony Ionta (T8staDiM3rda) — Google review
Compact, but split over 4 levels. Awesome day out with baby! She loved the lights and watching the fish! Great variety of fish and otters! Worth booking in advance for better ticket prices and deals! Guidebook also very detailed and not just about exhibits but their conservation efforts and is good wee read! Lovely day had by family!
Sarah N — Google review
This place is brilliant! We loved it just as much as our 6yr old boy. Highly recommend! The octonauts cinema was a great break half way through the aquarium. The views from the 4th floor were tremendous! The touch pool is small but plenty for little ones to touch.
Route in and parking is a tad misleading if you follow satnav as its not signposted for the aquarium.
Serena Peebles — Google review
This place has gives access to the under sea world that we would only be able to see in movies. It's life! Charge for tickets (at the door or book on line). Cafe inside. Cinema with small video for children education. Truly a Lovely place. Worth the visit if you have never been to an aquarium. They do amazing work in the waters all around Scotland to preserve nature. Inside is many wonderful exhibitions to show case the animals. The attention to detail is so adorable. We took an hour can take longer if you look and read more info.
Christine Emily Lewis — Google review
If you are interested in marine life, then a visit to the Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Aquarium is definitely worth it. The aquarium offers a wide variety of marine animals, including sharks, rays, seahorses, and more.
Additionally, the Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Aquarium offers informative talks and interactive experiences that allow you to learn more about the creatures in the aquarium and their natural habitats. There are also hands-on experiences available, such as touching starfish and crabs.
The aquarium is also located in a beautiful area, so you can enjoy the stunning views of Loch Lomond while you are there.
Overall, if you are interested in marine life and are looking for an educational and entertaining experience, then a visit to the Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Aquarium is definitely worth it.
Abdul Aziz — Google review
Great aquarium for sea life in Loch Lomond, the staff are very friendly, there was a lady who welcomed us, and she took a photo for everyone, then she gave me a QR code, so, after the tour, I can print my photo through it. The aquarium was great and suitable for families and children. There is a cinema on the second floor showing some cartoons about sea life for children. Also, there is a cafe on the third floor with a fabulous view. The fourth floor is a terrace, so you can take some wonderful photos.
I recommend booking tickets in advance.
Highly recommended.
Faisal Madanat — Google review
Extremely nice, you must buy tickets in advance online, but you can do it right when you get there... the store is cashless, but the café takes cash on the 3rd floor. The movie Theater is quite large! Beautiful views!!
Evan Houghton — Google review
Very nice place for family. Various of marine life, and a section for you to touch on some starfish and sea anemone. They have a cinema showing cartoon which is free and could let you to take a rest. Cafe is good. also have a nice view at the roof at 4/F.
M C — Google review
Although it’s getting very expensive to take a family there the setting hasn’t much changed over the years. Still it’s a good place to bring the kids as it does have an educational value.
With the staff it’s a hit or a miss. Some are bored doing the job for too long and others are energetic and willing to teach the kids.
The aquarium has a range of tropical fish small and large to very large. Please pay a visit to April the stumpy turtle. She has a nice rescue story on the wall.
The hands on experience stall is great for kids to touch some sea creatures.
The cafe is basic but has great views over Loch Lomond.
Tip: Please blindfold your kids when they leave. The shop is inconveniently located at the end of the ride and has a lot of overpriced toys for your kid to yell for!
Mo — Google review
This place is really good it blew my mind I had never been and I thought it wad amazing. I think I enjoyed it more that my grand children well worth a visit. Staff also amazing
Azam Khan — Google review
Visited on a Thursday afternoon. Appeared to be very family friendly and set up well for young kids. This is perhaps at the expense of catering for adults and older children. Limited information about sea life and lochs. Some of the screens next to Aquariums appeared to be malfunctioning. Quite busy at places. Tanks very clean and the inhabitants seem well cared for. Unless you have a child I would not recommend the program. Expect to pay around £40 for 2 adults.
Siobhan C — Google review
Excellent facilities right outside the loch Lomond lake and village shopping centre type. Price is reasonable, expect a little more. Four floor. Bottom is shops and Sealife animals. Small and confused layout but then u can go round or go back different direction. There are lifts to all floor, but couldn't find stairs from first floor to second floor nor the other way down. Second floor is just cinema cartoon for under age of 8, third floor is cafe overlooking the lake view which is top notch and fourth floor is outside view. The animals is well look after and could see April the turtle is well look after after concern floating up top, however found out she couldn't return wild due to her performing that she can't go under water and lost her flipper. Small Tunnel with overhead fish floating by. Overall good 2-3 hrs max visit for a young toddler
Emma Gould — Google review
Took a trip to Lomond shores for the day, to get out of the city and enjoy some nature. The weather wasn’t the best so we ended up spending the morning at the Sea Life Centre and had a really fab day. It was great to see all the different aquatic life, and we got there just in time to see the otters being fed. Not for the squeamish! We grabbed coffee at the Costa in the canteen and used the viewing platform to see the beauty of Loch Lomond - but avoiding all the rain and wind. Scotland gotta love it.
Mark C — Google review
Nice place but a little underwhelming. Staff at front desk were incredibly friendly, the aquarium itself felt reasonably small, you almost feel like you need to go slow to get your monies worth but what is there is lovely to see and very interesting and informative. The otters were hard to see with how the tank is set up with splashing water and dirty windows. The cinema is purely for children rather than an informative space you might find in other places. Cafe was good with nice views but no prices or menus on display (except for costa coffee) made it awkward to order. All outdoor areas including the viewpoint were locked, assuming because it’s winter but shame you can’t access and no warning until you try the doors that areas are shut.
Jay McGregor — Google review
We visited here for my granddaughter’s 1st birthday, and so glad we did. We had an amazing, fun and informative day, me especially could’ve went round it again. It was quiet, so we kinda had the place to ourselves, so we got to see everything and didn’t feel rushed. The place is very clean, colourful and there’s plenty of sea life to see, and staff are very welcoming and friendly. We spent just under 2 hours in the place, and we went up to the view point on the 4th floor, just hoped we had a clearer day.
Linda Taylor — Google review
Have to pre book online to gain entrance from the front entrance. A definite must 👌 for either adult or young children. Loads of different fish to see & even walking in the water tunnel with fish swimming over your head. A magical place.
Pauline Shiels — Google review
The best aquarium you will find in Scotland, a must visit for anyone interesting in sea animals. It is very good for family days out or just for a wee wonder. It's only 30 minutes from Glasgow and about 1 hour and a half from Edinburgh and surrounding areas.
The first floor features the massive aquarium that features huge tanks and spaces for the animals, a tunnel with sharks and rays swimming above and around you, and so many more like the semi circle like tank you can walk around that has a mixture of lots of interesting and cute animals, trust me you will be amazed inside the place, as well as a gift shop which has really nice plushies and other little things, the second floor has a Octonauts cinema, the third a very good café with lovely service and food and the forth floor has a big viewpoint of Loch Lomand.
There's lots of types of sharks, rays, as well as shrimps, a turtle named April which was rescued and brought here, otters, and so many more interesting sea creatures!! It is well worth the £23 adult full day ticket. It took us about 2 hours to get around it all (and enjoy the café and viewpoint).
Caidey — Google review
4.1
(4686)
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3.5
(1493)
Drumkinnon Tower, Ben Lomond Way, Balloch, Alexandria G83 8QL, United Kingdom
Nestled in the heart of Kilmarnock, Dean Castle Country Park spans over 200 acres and offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore scenic trails winding through woodland, open farmland, and wetland areas. The park also features a 14th-century castle museum surrounded by beautifully restored landscapes designed in the early 1900s. With a superb program of events, art galleries, and exhibitions, this friendly tourist attraction is perfect for families.
What a beautiful place. Sadly, the kids park was out of bounds when we visited, but there was still plenty to keep us interested. I'm on crutches, and really had to walk a lot (too much actually) after parking the car. It would be useful if we could maybe hire disability scooters? The disabled toilet was impressive, with a hoist & shower, and changing table for larger kids/adults. The wee cafe is quite reasonably priced which we appreciated. We'd definitely recommend a visit, esp on a dry day! Take some bird seed, or grapes for ducks. ❤
Lindsey Harper — Google review
The car park is ok size but can get really busy at lunch time. The castle is closed for refurbishment but it is due to reopen on the 1 of April 2023. The paths round the park are well looked after. They are a bit muddy in places but that more to do with the weather. There is 3 different walking routes you can choose from. All are very easy with only minor hills to walk up. The play park is quite small and has the usual swings,shoots,one person trampoline etc. The rural life centre is beside the park and the toilets are in here as well. Also in the centre is information about how they farm the land and environmental issues. There is a few animals you can see from goats/pigs/sheep/deer's. There is a cafe across from the car park and the price's are quite reasonable. You can also find other toilets here.
John Rundell — Google review
Great day out for the family in a well maintained park with free entry to the castle.
Public toilets and a cafe are also on hand.
Lots to see and do including duck pond and farm zoo.
Good for dog walkers also
stephen kostric — Google review
Beautiful park and beautiful castle. Free to enter and loads to do. Great for all ages and nice for walk around. I also believe there park run in this place. Definitely recommended to visit if you are here for a quick trip and touring Scotland.
Rahman Amin — Google review
It was a fantastic sunny day and we thought we would go a walk to Dean Park. On arrival we went to the cafe for lunch and a drink which was excellent. We then left the cafe to go on our adventure, seeing the animals, playing in the park which was clean and tidy, having lots of fun in the process. Will definitely be back keep up the great work everyone. Thank you.
anna richmond — Google review
Stopped here for lunch on our way to Ayr.
Free parking.
Nice food and tea/ latte.
Toilets also.
Castle was really good and lots to explore.
Member of staff there was very friendly and told us lots of the castle's history.
The park itself is great and has lots of paths.
I highly recommend going here.
Stew Walker — Google review
We came to the park in June hoping to walk around and see the exterior of the building, as we'd read the castle was closed. So it was a nice surprise to find that we could go into the castle...for free! We made a donation though as it was such a great experience; learning about this history of the area, the families who lived here, seeing tapestries and war materials (armour, swords) from over the centuries and around the world with some recreated pieces too, you could go upstairs in the castle as well as the lower floor. A really interesting place with helpful room guide volunteers.
We walked around a little of the gardens and saw the deers.
An easy place to visit and park, very quiet on a week day, and all for free!
Highly recommended.
Tara Sanders — Google review
Lovely park, with castle, river, lake playgrounds, animal petting farm and nice walks. Really nice,would recommend
Stuart Wilson — Google review
We only visited here to break up a journey but looks like a fab place to go regularly. Loads of space, walks, a kids playground, pigs, ducks, deer and squirrels. Wish we had more time to explore. The castle itself was closed. I would love to see around it!
Louise McGann — Google review
The visit to this park was really worth it. Loved the environment though couldn’t do much as it was raining heavily which made the place wet and annoying. The animals were also nowhere to be found. I was only able to see some deers. Also wanted to visit the castle there but discovered it was undergoing renovations to be opened in the spring of 2023. So generally I didn’t have a good first experience not because the park isn’t great but possibly cuz of the time I visited. Would definitely go back during summer
Sandra Chioma-Wodu — Google review
Excellent and Free. Very well kept park/ grounds. Lovely walks. Good playpark and enjoyed seeing the deer and pigs. Castle really interesting. Staff friendly and helpful. Cafe good too. Easy parking.
Cath i — Google review
Great to get into the castle and explore this amazing venue. You get good hands on experiences as you can dress up, search for the hidden door and explore the musical Instruments that are there too. A great construction of the castle in Lego for the kids.
Pay a visit to the wee gift shop, beautiful stuff! 👍🏻😘 🏘️🏰
Jean Hamilton — Google review
We had a great night at the Starry nights illuminations.
When we arrived no queues to enter. Well marked trail.
Plenty of food options at kiosks and undercover seating.
Kids loved the fake snow, disco and the snow man. Park looking stunning. Carnival rides too.
Check out their website before arriving for parking options, as only blue badges in the venue car park. Photo s don't give a true reflection of how good it looks.
Kim Stevenson — Google review
We took my grandson to the winter wonderland event. It was good but not great to be honest. The main light show against the castle not on, some lights not working properly and the parking was a nightmare. You had to park in nearby neighbourhood which the residents must have hated.
Lesley Aitken — Google review
Stunning area. Whole family loved it. Tranquil setting, deers were very visitor friendly and tame. Superb cafe, good value too. Castle and grounds looked great. Playground for kids was really good. Recommended.
David F — Google review
Lovely place to visit, if its been raining, wear appropriate footwear. Castle 🏰 is beautiful, stary nights on Christmas time, amazing for children as santa 🤶 🧑🎄 ❤️ is their, lots of rides and amazing light shows, they can even have a wee dance off 😀 places to eat are expensive, bit Christmas happens only once 😆 🤣 Lovely for couples as the light shows are amazing.
Grinch is defenetly the favourite 😍 ✨️ 💕 he is a big softy at heart ❤️
Defenetly worth a visit, plenty of things to see.
Mary Miller — Google review
Visited during Christmas season at Starry Nights . Park was well organised and beautiful to walk through. Occasion was on the pricey side with purchasing extras but nobody seemed to mind as it was Christmas.
Christine Hughes — Google review
A really lovely place to visit when the sun is out. There are three different trails that you can follow or you can just go to visit the castle, rural life centre, and visitor centre (which are both free!).
The walks were different lengths and not too strenuous but very scenic. The castle is so marvellous and has many different sections that you can explore, such as the palace, the keep, etc. (It is hard to believe it is free entry!). The rural life centre has some deer, bunnies, and a pig, all of which were fun to see! On the farm trail you can see more animals, like sheep, goats and horses. The visitor centre has a nice little cafe with indoor and outdoor seating, and the prices are great. There are a good number of free toilets and bins around the park which many places lack, so I praise Dean Country Park for this!
The only downside to this visit was that the map and directions can be very confusing at times and I often got lost. I think the map could be a lot clearer and include smaller paths and bridges.
Overall, I would recommend this place to anyone, from couples to families with young children, there is fun to be had here for everyone! If you go in the spring, the lambs and ducklings will be out.
Loch Katrine is a freshwater lake with a rich literary and folk history that attracts visitors for boating, fishing, and nearby cafes. It was a popular destination among Victorian tourists due to its mysterious and wide expanse. Today, it serves as the source of Glasgow's water supply while offering recreational opportunities such as canoeing or taking pleasure cruises from the visitor center. Additionally, there are sandy spots to launch canoes or kayaks around the shores with scenic views of surrounding mountains.
The thing I love about Scotland is that there are still places that you can go where the only thing you'll hear is "nothing" it's so peaceful, the call of a cuckoo as is floats across the loch is awesome. Also make sure you walk along the old military road, another great walk full of bird song, small waterfalls and tranquil scenes
Leave the world behind and visit this place as soon as possible.
Duncan Weir — Google review
Wow, one of the best experiences we had in Scotland. nature is beautiful, boat ride was comfy, hiking 🥾 road clear and easy. kids had so much fun)
Dina Astayeva — Google review
Other than delivering 230 million litres of water to surrounding towns and cities, such as Glasgow, the freshwater loch and reservoir provides stunning views from all 360 degrees it can be viewed from. The villain Rob Roy Macgregor was born at the head of this loch, giving a stellar history behind the whole area. During my visit I discovered multiple things about myself; my body hurts, I cannot feel my hands and my body is not immune to midgies.
cameron davidson — Google review
It's a beautiful place to go and either walk, cycle round to the other side you can hire bikes at the destination by going on the website. You can go on a boat tour too on to the Loch. Me and my friends cycled the whole Loch round to the other side and it was amazing as we stopped and had a picnic before we cycled back. You will also so the top of Ben A'nn. We climbed Ben A'nn and when at the top you can look over Loch Katrine and you will see the boat bridge below.(picture on top of Ben A'nn with Loch Katrine background) There is a lovely cafe aswell for afterwards and a little gift shop.
If driving up sat nav will go into Aberfoyle once you come to the Co Op take a right from there and that will take you on the road to the Loch car park. You will also go by the entrance of Go Ape.
Parking charge is £5 for the whole day.
Emma Lochhead — Google review
Absolutely stunning scenery with cruises on the loch and a nice selection of eateries
Neil Ford — Google review
Probably the most beautiful loch in Scotland. Beloved by Rob Roy MacGregor, Sir Walter Scott, Queen Victoria and many many more. Great place to visit, stay over, walk round and cruise on.
mike gaston — Google review
Beautiful reservoir with plenty to do - more than enough for a day out. The best part is that they are open even on public holidays.
Rundong Yu — Google review
Had a fantastic little day at loch katrine. We took and guided boat tour where we were told everything about the loch in the way round. Very interesting. Beautiful views all around. The little gift shop was nice we bought a wee highland cow for my daughter. We visited the cafe which was very pricey but lovely views food and coffee and plenty room. Highly recommend for a day out.
K M — Google review
A beautiful loch with a great loch side walk that goes for miles. Also a boat ride available. The cycle shop was shut but was going to open a week later at Trossachs Pier. The amazing quietness is unbelievable. The small shop houses the ticket counter for the boat, holiday bits and bobs and a small cafe.
G B — Google review
Beautiful scenic place for freimds and family or even solo to enjoy. Nice pebbled beaches all along the trail, but be aware that there are two piers- Trossachs pier which offers sir walter scott steamship services and the other one is the Stronlacher pier. The cruise usually starts from trossachs pier to the stronlacher pier and back, total time roughly 2 hours. However, there is a 15 miles trails between the two piers to cycle or walk through. You can even do a short 6.08 miles primrose circuit hillwalk which offers magficient views and is not too strenous. The location caters for all types of activities for all age groups. Hoth piers have a decent restaurant with good wuality food and drinks, including hard drinks. Pet and child friemdly. There is also a bike hire shop to hire bikes and enjoy biking along the cycling trail. The scenic beauty is breathtaking and feels so serene. Highly recommend.
Sukanya Sarkar — Google review
Gorgeous loch. Went on the boat trip, skipper was knowledgable and interesting on a range of different subjects, from wildlife to history and spoke fluent gaelic. Nice accessible private road running for miles around one side of the loch.
Samantha Long — Google review
Beautiful Loch to canoe around or take a tour with the pleasure cruisers from the visitor's centre. There's a number of sandy spots to drop-off with a canoe or kayak around the shores, with views over the surrounding mountains. We found a small waterfall hidden inside an inlet on the South East shore (56.24539° N, 4.46188° W) as we were paddling back to the put-in near the ferry port.
Stop off at the Visitors Centre ticket office to be granted permission to canoe on the Loch, and take note of when you're allowed to set off away from any ferries launching.
Dumfries House is an impressive Palladian mansion built by the Adam brothers in the 1750s, set within a sprawling country estate. This architectural gem boasts exceptional preservation with Prince Charles taking personal interest in its protection. The house has a stunning collection of Chippendale furniture, tapestries and artworks on display for visitors to admire through guided tours, which can be booked in advance. Historic Environment Scotland members benefit from discounted entry fees.
Lots of nice walks to take. Lovely play area for the kids. Didn't do a tour of the house as there was a wedding. Grounds of the house are lovely too. Cafe was very nice and very well priced too.
Abby D — Google review
Wonderful place to visit. Gardens are lovely and well maintained. Plenty of open space to enjoy walks and sit to enjoy the atmosphere and tranquility in certain sections of the gardens.
Recommend taking your own picnic/ lunch as cafe is small / not much seating and not adequate to deal with large crowds arriving at same time . Toilet facilities are available however more toilets would benefit the public as there was large ques waiting to use toilets. Fantastic family day out can be had at Dumfries House highly recommended
Christine Hughes — Google review
Very pleasantly surprised. The parking and the grounds are free to visitors: there's a charge for a guided tour of the house only. The house is worth visiting. The guide tells of the history of the house and how it came to be under the auspices of the King. You will need to book if you would like to visit the house. Wonderful adventure playground for a wide range of age groups. However, it is the gardens which are the best feature. Very impressive; beautifully laid out and a joy to explore. When we visited there was a very good makers market on site.
Frances Orchard — Google review
We had a lovely walk round the grounds and up to the Barony A Frame. There aren't signs for the path but head up the hill and you can't miss it!
Dumfries House gardens are beautiful, and we particularly appreciated the café for delicious cakes and coffee.
Kathryn McFarlane — Google review
Beautiful Adams house furnished with many Chippendale pieces. The house was excellent bringing it all to life. Extensive grounds with children's play area and an awesome walked garden.
Bryan Steele — Google review
We couldn't get in to see round the house as it was closed for a wedding but we will save that for another day. The grounds were stunning especially the Walled Garden. Lots of walks in the grounds and if you've got kids plenty to keep them busy. Great wee tearoom as well.
Jean Chalmers — Google review
3rd time here and it won't be the last. There is always something different to do and walk .It's so peaceful and well maintained.Dog friendly on leads There is an outdoor area at the cafe if you have a dog .The only problem is if you're on your own with the dog I find it hard to get someone's attention in the cafe to come out to me They need to attach something outside to tie the dog securely.
julia johnson — Google review
Amazing place !! First time here with the family. About 1 hour from Glasgow. Dog friendly (on a leash) . Stunning scenery all around with a large tree top play park for the kids. Be careful on the slide though as there are big bolts that stick out on the outside half way down. There's a cafe / toilets / ice cream. Really amazing place and we will definitely be back. Oh and there's also a section the kids can build dams with water etc. It really is good. See pics 📸
Also there is a maze that costs £1 for adults .... kids are free
Runningwithstephen StephenQuigley — Google review
Loved this place, can’t wait to go back. A great selection of little walks around the grounds, some spectacular trees and shrubs around the gardens and the arboretum. The walled garden and the maze were closed (winter) but another reason to go back again and again.
Rob Croydon — Google review
Astounding greenery, may this place keep being vibrant healthy and strong in eternity. Very nice and safe worksmanship on the toys as well. A little inconvenient that everything was closed down in the evening, perhaps a vending machine for a hot chocolate for the late visitors would complete it nicely 💝😊
Wander Queer — Google review
Brilliant play area for the kids, the swing bridges are incredible and the slides too. The gardens are lovely to walk around and the bridges are great. The food in the cafe was delicious, but very popular so expect a queue. Parking is free so a must if you are in the area
Mighty Red80 — Google review
Have just returned home from an overnight stay. Extensive grounds all well kept.
Fantastic place to visit,everyone is so kind. The room was well appointed and nothing left to chance. Food sublime and the staff couldn't do enough for us.
Beautiful setting. Well worth a visit.
The house is gorgeous and the Thomas Chippendale furniture is just wonderful.
Linda Bailey — Google review
Amazing place. Fantastic for a day out. Lots to see and do. The Woodlands Garden, the Walled Garden, the Arboretum and the Maze are wonderful. So nice for a peaceful walk. There are so many stunning trees to see too. There's a massive playground for children. Lots of parking spaces in the main car park as well as near the visitor centre/café. Toilets and baby changing facilities are available and clearly signposted. Dogs are welcome in the grounds. There's a café, a restaurant and a gift shop. It's free to visit but there's a £3 fee to visit the Walled Garden which is worth it. There's a charge for tours of the Dumfries House but we didn't get to do a tour on this occasion. My friends and I really enjoyed ourselves and would definitely visit again.
Maya M — Google review
First time visiting the grounds & thoroughly enjoyed the walk. The tea room was clean and the staff friendly. The food was decent with a reasonable choice
allan mac — Google review
We had a wonderful time. The grounds are amazing. The only downside is that it's hard going round the house at times, I just wish there were seats to sit on. I know it's not easy but some of us were suffering at the end. The guides were very good.
A few more sign posts would help as the map is not good at showing routes on how to get around. Having said that I will definitely visit again. It's a fantastic place for all ages.
John Yates — Google review
What a beautiful place Dumfries House is .We went a while back but knew we had to come back when the gardens were in bloom,we weren't disappointed, just wonderful. A very relaxing place to wander around ,stop and smell the flowers .Sit and relax in one of the many lovely spots around the estate.
Great adventure playground for kids built around the giant trees that dominate the landscape.
There's also a water park with a difference, kids can learn from small dams , make water move up an Archmeides screw and various other fun stuff with water .
Take a picnic or eat in the cafe .
Worth visiting time and time again .
King Charles done us all a favour in buying this lovely place and saving it for everyone.
Snow Factor is a year-round ski resort that offers an ice-climbing wall, skiing and snowboarding classes, a bar and eatery. There are many activities to choose from including skiing and snowboarding.
Started my first snowboard lesson on reopening week back in November, was a little challenging as a beginner, but I had fun. Level 2 later that week was not good at all. Being overweight does not make it easy, and I couldn't stand up on the heel edge. With Bradley and James perseverance and making a ledge technique, I started to get there. However had to go back and redo the level 2 as we ran out of time. Onto the level 3 a few weeks later. Was definitely getting easier now, and again thanks to Bradley, we progressed onto level 4 turns as well. Few weeks later and we finished up our lessons on the big slope. Thanks to miles and patsy for the help and advice.
Have now been and had a full day ski pass, and having a great time on the big slope, still require some practice and experience, but getting better every run.
Overall a great experience, wish I'd done this years ago. Never too late for a mid life crisis!
Thanks again to everyone at Snow Factor!!
Richie Coull — Google review
Had a great group lesson with Mark W in December 2021. Lesson was for level 3 but he also allowed up to venture into level 4 tasks. Felt good about what was taught and have booked my next lesson already.
The slope and gear is great however reception staff were lacking some costumer service skills and the toilets would benefit from more regular cleaning.
Eden Ritchie — Google review
Friendly place to learn snowboarding on real snow without having to go too far from Glasgow. Did a series of private lessons with my wife and found the instructors to be excellent. Each one had good tips and suggestions to improve based on how we were progressing. Thanks to C, Lucy, JJ, Simon, Holly and Bradley. After completing level five you get a bonus two hours free on the slopes to practice in your own.
Stephen Hailey — Google review
Lucy was a lovely instructor, it was my first ski lesson and I was quite anxious but she made me feel very relaxed and was very supportive. I will definitely be going back soon🙂
Aidan Walker — Google review
My husband and myself had enjoyed so much our 2nd snowboarding lessons with Andy! We came with no background but it was always something we wanted to try. We are really looking forward to our third lesson to be able in the future to enjoy a ride by ourselves! Also the staff is very friendly and there is really good facilities and a nice bar where you can relax after the lesson. I would recommend to go in the morning cause it's less busy 😊
Serena Pedemonte — Google review
Honestly couldn’t ask for a better place to learn skiing. Even in the first lesson, you feel immense confidence because they teach you really well. Our instructor Kristina was extremely helpful, and very patient, even when our turns were monstrous. Would definitely recommend and will definitely go again.
Armaan Verma — Google review
Lovely visit to have a refresher ski lesson. Christina was really helpful and friendly she gave us lots of tips to ensure the ski lesson went well for all 3 of us of differing levels. The time just flew by and we will definitely be back. Thank you Christina!
Rebecca McLennan — Google review
Snowfactor was the best ski slope I’ve ever been to. They had amazing features and amazing workers. There freestyle community @dasswamp was great, wish they would open back up. Truly the best ski slope in Scotland
Snow Kidz — Google review
Great day at Snow Factor! Only my second time snowboarding so was still wary but the slope and facilities were perfect as a starter. Be aware though if you have no snowboarding ability at all and do go for a £55 lesson (Far too pricey) and opt for the full day £30 lift pass then you can potentially be asked to leave the slopes because of danger to yourself and others. The staff were great though and allowed a few runs until we found our feet and picked it up a little bit more. Lesson next time to advance some of my basic skills I think!
nickmatthew1 — Google review
First time ice climbing with Richard as our instructor. Was a great laugh and interesting to learn the technique. It definitely felt like longer than an hour. Would highly recommend.
Anthony Bardsley — Google review
I've been going here for years, it's good to keep your snow skills going all year round. Myself and a friend were there last Sunday night for the last hours of the open day and we were the last two on the slope, the staff member Chris was at the top of the Poma but didn't have anyone to look out for falling so he came out and showed me how to do some tricks on the snowboard and also gave me the confidence to ride the box, I've never wanted to do it in case I went flying off the side in front of crowds but as it was empty and he gave me instruction on how to ride it I went for it. Thanks Chris, you went above and beyond.
Scott Russell — Google review
Great lesson with Lucy last week. I did my Level 4 snowboarding group lesson and whilst all the instructors have been great, Lucy has been the best thus far. She was very approachable, attentive and a great coach. She genuinely cared and made sure I got the best out of my lesson. Hoping to hit the main slope soon so I’ll be back in touch for a private with her!
Brian Fraser (brianmcfraser) — Google review
My husband and I did our first skiing lesson here and it was amazing! Tim, our instructor was patient, encouraging, and really helped us to feel more confident on the slope (something I never thought I'd say)! We'll definitely be back for another lesson!
Cynthia B — Google review
Had a great time at the ice climbing, instructor James did a great job of showing us the best routes.
Matthew M — Google review
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Braehead, King's Inch Road SF Ops Ltd XSITE, Renfrew PA4 8XQ, United Kingdom
At Go Ape Aberfoyle, groups can explore a forest canopy via a treetop rope course. The staff are great and the venue is excellent, making it a great day out for the kids.
Went on Sunday with my little sister and we had an amazing time!! The other people on the course where great to banter with too!! ( I think one of you is called Andrew) Stacey our instructor was amazing too! Helped my sister understand exactly what she was doing and she had so much fun!🥰 Thanks Go Ape!🌲
Ellie McGowan — Google review
Amazing experience.. views breathtaking and some of the climbs to tree tops are high.. from the top you have some amazing views.. definitely recommend for people to try them out! Staff are friendly and accommodating.. we had a decent group size of 9 so took a while for us to complete.. they stayed back late until we finished without rushing us! Zip line to the finish view was amazing.
kamrul islam — Google review
Really good fun. It takes a second to get the hang of the clips and pulley safety system but once you've done it a few times it's easy. Great views as well and the staff are really friendly.
Chris Henderson — Google review
We did the zip line experiencing and 100% recommend! Looking forward to doing the tree top experience next!
Tiffany Dyson — Google review
Queen Elizabeth Park is a great day out and I would highly recommend. We did the zip line adventure which was fun, however did not realise once at the opposite side we would be climbing up quite some height on the trees to zip back. This was not mentioned prior to the zip and we expected to climb only a small ladder. Would not recommend if you are afraid of heights! Staff were all professional and friendly.
Rachel Carfoot — Google review
What an experience doing the tree top challenge. Highly recommend if you have good to moderate fitness. Took us two 2.5h from start to finish, great fun.
Wojciech Wybicki — Google review
Had a fantastic time, and Alan our instructor was brilliant. I was a bit worried about the zip line but loved it. My youngest boy, 12 had a fantastic time and my teen, 15 excelled at the climbing. Everyone at the centre was so helpful, I struggled with the wobbly ladders and the the other instructors said don't worry about it, so I missed a few tree top adventures. Very helpful when my husband knocked off his glasses!! They were found and all in one piece!
Pam Grundy — Google review
Really great day out with the kids. Staff were great and the setup in Aberfoyle is excellent. You need to be ok with heights but if so then get up there, you won't regret it.
Douglas Carson — Google review
Second time here and it was as good as ever. If you struggle with heights and upper body strength then it may not be for you. Staff are great at explaining 👌 our 13 year old niece and nephew absolutely loved it.
Jennifer Stewart — Google review
I got a treetop challenge for my birthday gift was so much fun I really enjoyed it . I wish I knew tho that it’s a bit cold on the zip line and you need clothes that you don’t care if you going to be dirty because there is everywhere mud around. Can’t wait to go back for another adventure
Dina Z — Google review
Amazing fun! Felt very safe & instructions were good, little training course at the start helps you “learn the ropes” - excuse the pun!
Some high zip wires and jumps, not for those with a fear of height. We got very muddy and definitely tired after the 2 hour course
T. M — Google review
Great fun, took about two hours to get round the course. Amazing views and a fulfilling challenge. Highly recommended!
Sarah May — Google review
Staff were really friendly and very helpful. The course was fantastic, plenty of challenging bits, but nothing I or our 11 year old couldn’t do. There’s multiple tours for stuff you can do, and each individual crossing between platforms is marked to tell you how challenging it is, from low to extreme.
He, and I, particularly loved the massive zip lines at the beginning and end, along with the Tarzan Swings.
Take some spare clothes - you may need them.
Scott Lewis — Google review
The tree top walk was too high for me, and I really didn’t feel safe as there was no alternative way down. On the last zip wire I got stuck half way, seemingly I wasn’t heavy enough for the zip to go the distance, yet I’m a grown adult!!! An instructor had to get me… it was terrifying and I was clearly shaken, yet, no member of staff checked in with me that I was ok.
Judith Pollock — Google review
Safe fun for everyone and good challenge for yourself. Thanks Go Ape team !
Iwona Łaskawska — Google review
The treetop challenge was a fun way to overcome my fear of heights with the moral support from friends and professional staff. There is a variety of physical challenges which make the 2.5-3hr experience exciting throughout and well worth the money.
The only downside was that there is not enough monitoring along the climbing sites and some people can be quite inconsiderate by stacking in large groups on platforms and pushing you.
You will likely get dragged along the ground when landing from the zip lines which is not painful but can definitely ruin your clothing, so dress accordingly.
Stelian Stefanov — Google review
Amazing adventure in a fantastic setting. Easy to book online and staff are super friendly. Safety brief was on the ball and then the rest is down to you.
Great family day out,
Stewart Gardner — Google review
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The Lodge - Forest Visitor Centre Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Aberfoyle, FK8 3SX, United Kingdom
The Riverside Museum of Transport is a hyper-modern museum with collections of historic vehicles and state-of-the-art interactive displays. It is popular with visitors of all ages, and is home to more than 3,000 objects that date back to the 1890s. The museum is a world-famous architect Zaha Hadid design, and its focus on transportation makes it a must-see for anyone interested in Glasgow's history.
The museum is superb. The unique and antique display units are very attractive. The entry is free, that is the most important thing. You can spend hours or maybe a day being here. It has beautiful scenery outside also. There is tall ship at the outside of building, that is my most favorite one. You can buy drinks and snacks inside the museum with very reasonable price. I am sure that I will never get bored visiting the Riverside Museum.
Arief Rahman Hakim — Google review
It was an automatically delightful experience! We had been there with family and all of us enjoyed our time there. It was great to see and read about the history of automobiles ranging from the bicycle to the car and even public transportation. You need 2-3 hours to walk through the whole museum. Kids will surely like it. A great way to spend your weekend!
Santosh Nair — Google review
It was very nice, a lot to see. There was a carnival while we were there. The gift shop has a handful of things, and there is a Cafe inside and outside on the "Tall Ship" our 2 year old daughter really enjoyed it all!
Evan Houghton — Google review
This was my favorite Scotland museum. Such a fun, FREE interactive place. It is fantastic for young and old. They have recreated the old streets and places of Edinboro, you can experience going back in time, getting on and sometimes touching & experiencing antiques. It's handicapped accessible
Stephanie Harris — Google review
This is one of the best museums I have ever visited. I was really impressed as I was visiting from the U.S. this museum had amazing exhibits and a large variety of different objects from trains to cars to motorcycles to ships. Wow great job putting this together. The admission was free but a donation is requested. My next trip I will be back because I haven’t seen everything. There was a duo playing music while I was there and they were great. The hop on hop off bus also stops in front of the museum. This is a definite place to visit when in Glasgow don’t miss it.
M H — Google review
Great place. Full of old forms of transport. Brilliant old street food exhibit. Well worth a visit when in the area. Great for all the family. Clean, tidy with helpful staff. Free entry. £5.20 for two hours parking just outside.
Adrian F — Google review
Really good museum and it's free! Lots of variety of vehicles to see and learn about. My 5 year old loved it and even my 11 month old liked looking at the cars. There's a few interactive bits aswell which is good and you can get on some of the trams too. Lots of interesting bits about Glasgow and the river Clyde.
Vicky Clelland — Google review
Really interesting, with interactive exhibits and unique 1:1 scale set of a Victorian street, complete with underground station. And it's completely free. I could have spent hours in there if not for my phone battery dictating my need to leave.
James Sanderson — Google review
Really good museum - loads to see and do. The Tall Ship was great. My 4 year old enjoyed the stories in the shops, and the pretend vehicles she could sit in. Cafe was fine. Only issue was the excessive heat, and the fact that the cloakroom was closed due to covid.
Jenny Graham — Google review
A fantastic beautifully designed museum with 1,000's of exhibits in the collection of many different types of transport. Traction engine, tube train carriage, bus, fire engine, tram, steam train, bicycles, motorbikes, numerous superb classic cars as well as toys, fashion, recreated street scene and shops. You could easily spend half a day here. Also has a souvenir shop and a nice cafe. It was lovely to see and hear lots of children enjoying themselves and being interested in the vehicles.
Nuts — Google review
Beautiful place, free entry, you can see vehicles from all centres in the past and nowadays. We enjoyed it a lot. The old ship was my favourite 😍. There are places to have brake and eat. There is the cafè on the ship where you can relax and have some food. I would recommend this museum to everybody: kids, youths, adults and elderly people.
Aleksandra Kwiecien (Ola) — Google review
An amazing museum, we visited in a summer holiday, and was amazed by the pure scale of these trains and locos. There is plenty to look at, and learn about and its super interactive!
Not only is it trains, it's boats, cars and much more! The museum is rich in information and entertainment. Great for all ages, and a must do if you are in glasgow. And the best, most shocking part, is it's free of charge!
Oliver Bird — Google review
I love this museum! There's a lot to see inside from bikes to cars to trains and lots of other transportation vehicles. It is a big museum and it is completely free to visit. You can also go aboard the ship next to the museum, also for free. There is a big parking lot in front of the museum. We had a fun and interesting day out!
aleksa alex — Google review
If you like history, then this would be a good place for you. The riverside museum presents transport history. You see trains, bikes, cars, ships. I quite liked it. There's also a nice Cafe and decent toilet facilities. Nice ambience. You can also go round the building to the waterside which was quite nice and I presume will be nicer during the summer. Entry is free but you need to pay for parking. I however noticed that parking was more expensive than presented on their website.
Diokpa One — Google review
Amazing museum and exquisite display of cars and different modes of transportation: mostly from the past. Great place for kids to spend the afternoon. It’s free admissions. Also beautiful architecture of the building, close to the river and with incredible views of the city beyond. Good place to spend an afternoon.
Wei C Sigala — Google review
This is a very comprehensive museum of modern science of transport, with quite a few interactive displays where kids can enjoy themselves all around. Displays are very detailed and showing amazing replicas (in many cases originals) of objects from the past. As a bonus, entry is free which does make a difference for bigger families. Easily couple of hours of well spent family time. Totally recommended.
Simon Bakovsky — Google review
Amazing place, we really enjoyed it. Entrance was free just pay for the car park.
Very interesting, the kids loved it especially on the ship.
Except for the car parking we spent no money at all, it's a top place to visit on a budget.
Ibn Abd Al-Kh?liq — Google review
Wow, what a great museum. It was fantastic to see so many old modes of transport. It brought back so many memories of being a small boy visiting grandparents on the opposite side of Manchester and using trams & trolley buses to get there.
Steve Booth — Google review
This museum is an absolute gem, one of the best I've ever made.
As well as being free and very well maintained, it's extremely large, with different scenes for different eras, so I had stars in my eyes.
If you're ever in Glasgow, don't miss it, I didn't think I'd be interested in transport, but it's a trip back in time. Every city should have a museum like this one, I've fallen in love with it!
Laurie Mty — Google review
Nice museum. Very good for people if interested in vintage cars and mode of transportation. They also have a ship. The entry is free but car parking is not free.
A nice place to spend time.
MAYANK CHAUHAN — Google review
It’s a bit hard to summarise this museum’s eclectic collection. My best effort: A great collection of historic transport machines. A combination of cars, trams, trains, boats, bikes and metro
On top an old English city street is rebuild.
A must visit for the younger engineers thanks to its interactivity as well as their parents who are interested in technology
Jeroen B — Google review
Great museum. Free entry.
I recently visited the Riverside Museum, and it was a great experience. The museum offers a diverse collection of transportation history, from vintage cars to old trams, and even a tall ship. The interactive displays and well-preserved exhibits were fascinating. The only reason I'm not giving it a perfect score is that some areas were not working well. Nevertheless, it's a must-visit for anyone interested in Glasgow's transportation heritage."
Walter Basile — Google review
I tend to go to the riverside museum to see the cars as I love classic cars. I also love seeing the street with the fake shops which is a great experience.
Especially great as the museum is free. Only small thing is that the cars at the very top of the wall you can’t see as well, but still amazing to see
Jenna Mcintyre — Google review
I took my 2 year old son here for the first time yesterday. He is car mad and absolutely loved his visit to the museum! Bless, he didn't know where to go first. Will certainly be taking him again as he gets bigger.
Kaitlin Noelle — Google review
It was fantastic experience definitely worth it to go , lots different things old stuff, there a big ship outside in the river get to go on it and downstairs that fantastic, I'm deaf and it even have BSL sign language on screen 😀 just great place we stayed for over 4 hours, got cafe , it free to get in just pay for car park .
If you ever in Glasgow that be one of the places to go for the day out . 😁💯
Darren Rees — Google review
Piece in the history. Free entry. Going by car then pay for the parking. Nice large Café inside with plenty of sitting arrangements. You can bring your own food. Exclusive collection of historic cars, trains, bikes, cycles, and many more. This building is divided in to 2 floor accessible by lifts and stairs. Plenty of parking space.
Bhavesh Patel — Google review
The Riverside Museum is a great spot for history buffs, especially those interested in transportation. Inside, you'll find an array of exhibits showcasing trains, bicycles, cars, and ships, providing a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of transportation over the years. The atmosphere is enjoyable, with a cozy café where you can grab a snack or drink, and the restroom facilities are well-maintained. Additionally, the museum offers a pleasant outdoor experience, with a waterfront area where you can stroll and enjoy the scenery, particularly appealing in the summer months. While entry to the museum is free, it's worth noting that the cost of parking may be higher than advertised on their website, so it's something to keep in mind when planning your visit.
Aswani Anil — Google review
A great place to visit if you have kids or not! So much to see and do in a nice condensed space. You can wander around at your leisure or sit and chill with a picnic.
Many people were coming in purely to use the cafe or visit the ship.
Best of all it’s completely FREE! (Small charge for parking)
Cherylmarie McAtamney — Google review
The boys loved it, especially the vehicles they could get into! It took us a while to find the restaurant, are you trying to hide it? The day was topped off by bumping into my old friend Bunny...and other lovely staff members ❤️ 💙 💜
Carole Keane — Google review
Brilliant! Great for families and exhibits you can really relate to. Excellent cafes - although busy, the staff were fantastic and really efficient! A great day out if you love cars, trains, ships, toys, history...
Dave Brooks — Google review
One of the best museums in Glasgow. Is it a must to see? If you have just a couple of days in the city, it is not a must to see. However, if you have children and want to spend nice time travelling through time, it is the perfect spot plus entry is free of charge .
Selman D — Google review
The Riverside Museum offers a captivating journey through Scotland's transport history. From vintage cars and bicycles to majestic locomotives, the exhibits vividly showcase the evolution of transportation. The museum's striking architecture and scenic riverside location add to the charm, making it a must-visit destination for both history buffs and families alike.
Zain Arshad — Google review
We had a great time at this museum. There is so much here it would be hard to get it done in one visit much less than a few.
I enjoyed the interactivity of it all. My toddler loved playing with everything. The trains, buses, firefighter hook & ladder, subway, and so much more.
I enjoyed going through the recreated town. It was like walking into a blast from the way distant past. Each exhibit had either a panel with more info of a nice video.
Outside you can go into a ship and see many different things inside and outside. My daughter loves it
We did eat at the cafe and I found it to be a bit pricey and the food was overcooked a bit.
Overall this is a really cool place and hope we can comeback some day.
Michael Knutson — Google review
4.7
(16957)
•
4.5
(9776)
100 Pointhouse Rd, Govan, Glasgow G3 8RS, United Kingdom
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a multi-million pound art gallery and museum located in Kelvingrove Park, close to other attractions such as the Riverside Museum, The Tall Ship, and the Hunterian Museum. The art gallery houses an astounding 9,000 artefacts and paintings across 22 themed galleries. There are also temporary exhibitions in addition to the permanent collections.
Amazing free museum! Quite an interesting diversity that will content everybody! Loved the paintings sections and the Dali painting which is - for me - the highlight of the collection! But a lot of other pieces of art from sculptures to videos or objects; the Egyptian section really seemed to attract a lot of people! Went to it twice cause it’s huge and it’s highly advised to go during the week where the place was a lot quieter!
Mr H! — Google review
I was stunned. The museum is beautiful outside and inside. Great collections (with Dali's Christ on the Cross on display) and lots to see and experience. It's completely free, so make sure to go! On Sunday there is an organ recital around noon, which was also cool to see and hear.
Juljan Desmet — Google review
Want to see it all.....a full day might do it! So much to see and experience. Thank you to the people of Scotland for providing free access to this wonderful collection. Be sure to leave a donation in one of the boxes near each entry point!.... Try to be around for the short organ recital usually around 1 pm.
Paul Whyte — Google review
If you happen to be in Glasgow, there is one place that you should definitely not miss out on. It is a must-visit for anyone who loves beautiful architecture and unique museum pieces. The place I am talking about is completely free for the public to explore, making it a great option for those on a budget. The architecture of this place is truly breathtaking and is sure to leave you in awe. The museum piece on display there is one of a kind and definitely worth seeing. So, if you want to experience the best of Glasgow, be sure to check out this incredible place.
The Clinic Ara Damansara — Google review
A favourite of mine. Love to spend time exploring and enjoying the beautiful pieces of art. There are many wonderful items to look at. There is a very nice cafe on the lower floor (or ground floor) if arriving using the back of museum. A must see If never visited. The architecture is also amazing
Patricia Morrison — Google review
Small but varied art gallery. A really eclectic mix of things. The daily organ playing, the broad range of art and exhibits make this a really enjoyable place to visit. There are so many little things to see, but unlike some museums, it’s not overpowering.
A special mention should go to the cafe with stunning biscuits and short bread.
The staff were very polite.
Updesh Dosanjh — Google review
This is one of the must see museum in Glasgow. It is a massive museum with magnificent art pieces and sculptures. The history of war and our forefathers is education itself. I visited it during Christmas time and just outside this museum an ice skating rink was set up for winter and it was awesome.
Sushiliah Devi — Google review
Spectacular building… worth a peak just to see the main halls …
I was only really interested in the Macintosh section, which was good… but there seems to be a really nice selection of artefacts/ items across a huge range of topics. Nicely curated….
S B — Google review
Walked through quickly. Great place for kids and souvenir shoppers. Very eclectic. The organ player was entertaining a crowd as we entered. An eclectic grouping grouping of collectibles. The museum is free with a donation box at the entrance. There is a cafe on the main level and a restaurant on the lower level. Both were crowded when we visited.
Betta Rautio — Google review
Huge museum, i was impressed about the building how big it is. Divided by 2 side and 2 colors, i think we spent at least 4 h just to see every room. If you have passion for art this is your place to visit.
Radu Andreea — Google review
Free entry to an architecturally stunning building. The contents inside this building is also wonderful. I could easily spend the day in here. On a sunny day, you can sit outside on the grass and enjoy a picnic. A cheap, but very cultural first date location. I highly recommend going if you’re visiting Glasgow.
Harry Barker — Google review
An excellent day out in Glasgow. This museum and art gallery is a must for all ages. Very good exhibitions. The cost of a visit is free but they do ask for a donation which is no hardship at all. Got the subway there which is only a 5 min walk away.
Paul Callaghan — Google review
Great selection of art, history and culture. Museum has free entry and is a great location to learn more about the city and the history. Good selection of exhibits. Would make a great day out for kids. Allow at least 2 hours for the visit. One of the best museums in Glasgow.
Sumalka Mendis — Google review
Free entry, fantastic art gallery and museum. Could have spent days! Volunteer staff are fantastic - I recommend dropping your bags off to enjoy the gallery and museum more.
Many famous works to see - and I was lucky enough to be in the museum when the organ was played!
If I have to make one comment, perhaps an alternative lighting method for Christ of St John of the Cross. Spotlights are too bright!
N Preston — Google review
If you are interested in learning more about Scotland and Glasgow this is a good starting point. It’s a proud nation and has had a rich history to prove that. It may not be comparable to the museums in terms of size, you found in London, the exhibits are no less significant.
V Cheng — Google review
Absolutely wonderful museum and art gallery. For me the most stunning part is the building itself. Outside is good but inside is spectacular.
Very helpful and friendly guides. No charge to enter except for special exhibitions. Quite similar to the Natural History museum in London but with art.
We spent a few hours here and could easily have doubled it. Will be going back for more, that’s for certain!
Rob Barron — Google review
Great museum. Free entry. Lots of small, thematic exhibitions, with inspiring art and interesting information about the history of the city and area. The coffee shop in its center is also quite nice, with really friendly personal.
Mathieu Cocheteux — Google review
It’s so impressive. We attended the Sunday organ recital. It’s incredible that the organ sound hits you right as you enter the main hall on the ground floor. Children play and dance to organ music. The art and all artefacts are beautiful and help to experience history in an engaging and fun way!
Michał Niezgoda — Google review
Amazing exhibits, could have spent 2 days looking at everything in here! If you can make it for the organ show, I highly recommend! It’s incredible that such a stunning collection of art and history is all free to the public!
A M — Google review
Animal exhibits were a wonder to walk through and the paintings they had on display in the art section were amazing. There was a video on loop about the restoration and preservation of painting which was fascinating. I plan on going back and listening to the Organ recital live.
Jake Butler — Google review
Spent an afternoon here after taking the train in from Edinburgh. The surrounding area is beautiful and there are cute shops nearby as well as inside the museum full of neat trinkets and keepsakes coinciding with the current exhibits. Kelvingrove has quite the assortment of things to see--from natural history to fine art, and even some modern exhibitions.
Sophia Wang — Google review
I have been visiting Kelvingrove since I was a little girl, and it isn't a trip to Glasgow if you don't visit the Gallery. I took my two year old son here for the second time, and he absolutely loved it. There is so much to look at and lots of interactive parts for the kids and adults. There are some of the most beautiful art available to see here. A brilliant cafe and gift shop too!
Kaitlin Noelle — Google review
What an amazing structure, so much detail puts modern buildings to shame.
The exhibits were fantastic too and everyone was very helpful with directions
There is a wee cafe within, however, we did not use.
Toilet facilities were easily located and very clean
Pauline Mochan — Google review
3.5 stars, it was a great free attraction in a gorgeous building but felt the exhibits inside were outdated and not as interactive as had anticipated. Some of the paintings are beautiful, and i particularly comend the ones of Scotland, but felt the museum side of things let it down. Wouldn’t visit again, but pleased I have. Felt the informatiom could had been more descriptive to help understand the history behind the art.
Katie Glover — Google review
Free entry to revisit the past. The gallery starts with Scottish arts and then takes you through past histories carefully collected from around the world. It has an animal section which might interest kids. If you happen to be there around 1pm, do not miss the piano performance by the hall. Amazing experience!
Sankar Mitra — Google review
Great experience for the kids. So much to learn about and explore. To top it all off, it's free and very close to public transportation, which gets you to the city center within 10 minutes.
Mya Chemonges-Murzynowska (Mya Chemonges-Murzynowska) — Google review
Buchanan Street is a bustling, historic street in Glasgow that's home to high fashion outlets and flagship stores as well as coffee shops and eateries. It's also situated just a few blocks from George Square, making it the perfect place to shop, window-shop or take a walk in Glasgow.
Gets me to where I'm going, friendly, helpful staff
Leslie — Google review
Great street with something always happening such as buskers , street musicians and artists or general entertainment, also great for shopping , going for something to eat , get a coffee or generally people watching
Hamish Connor MacLeod — Google review
It’s the Glasgow city center where multiple shopping stores and food outlets are located. It’s the heart of Glasgow and must visit place when you go Glasgow Scotland.
I witnessed the 2019 world piping festival which is main attar film of Scotland. Many piping teams come to witness this beautiful event. All team showcased their performances on the street of Buchanan and also infront of Glasgow royal concert hall.
Zakauddin Ahmad — Google review
Lots and lots of good shops, and cafés. Really busy
Pete L — Google review
Great place love Scotland and love Glasgow
Adam Al-Ali — Google review
Great shops here.
A harley — Google review
Calle peatonal animada y muy comercial
(Translated by Google)
Lively and very commercial pedestrian street
Claudia Correa — Google review
Very busy
StilRavin — Google review
Nice view at the city centre
Eugen Fomin — Google review
Love love love for shopping
M AJ (Coffee lover) — Google review
Beautiful Buchanan Street.
Terrance — Google review
The heart of Glasgow's 'Golden Triangle' of retailing, seems to be going through somewhat of a resurgence, at least for high end retailers in the central part of the street.
Well served by the subway and trains, the best car parking is probably still the Buchanan galleries shopping centre.
The best bars and eating are off of the street, and are plentiful.
John Ross — Google review
Amazing Buskers in Glasgow city centers!!
Manuele Leonelli — Google review
Es una calle peatonal llena de comercio!!!… muy bonita!!.. posee excelentes opciones de comida y compra de artículos personales. Al final esta buchanans gallery, que es un mall. Esta muy céntrica y de fácil acceso desde Las dos estaciones de trenes . Hay variados restaurantes de muy buena calidad !!!
(Translated by Google)
It is a pedestrian street full of commerce!!!… very nice!!.. it has excellent options for food and purchasing personal items. At the end is buchanans gallery, which is a mall. It is very central and easily accessible from both train stations. There are various restaurants of very good quality!!!
Saldos In sale — Google review
Very vivid street and it is a pulsing heart of Glasgow. Full of different shops, stores and souvenirs for tourists. All kind of different buildings with interesting architecture and very large street which is pedestrian area. Just walk around and absorb the atmosphere of Glasgow city as there is much to see.
Katka I. (Kappa) — Google review
Lovely bustling street full of shops and street performers, nice walk
Jerald Kng — Google review
What else do you need - shopping, dining, amazing views
Anurag Srivastava — Google review
the street has shopping brands on both sides, telecom/food/grocery outlets too. but with festive lights and decorations, it’s no more just the shopping area, it’s a mood lifter. so do come out and enjoy walk even if it’s getting dark and cold because on this street will still brighten up the rest of your day.
moreover the street itself has 2 shopping centres (frasers and princes square) on it, 1 shopping arcade and 1 more shopping centre (st enoch’s) on the connecting street.
Z — Google review
Very good shopping on this street. Live performers doing their thing. Easy walk from the station.
Andrea A — Google review
Great place for shopping. Great Taxi service available.
Ewa Gainska — Google review
If you go to Glasgow, then you need to walk on Buchanan street.
You can find many stores like sports, souvenirs, jewellery, coffee shops, restaurants. Also you can admire while walking, the very nice buildings architecture the red blocks on the buildings are simply amazing.
Doune Castle is a Scottish castle that has been used for filming and is known for its appearances in Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Game of Thrones.
Although the castle is under repairs/restoration I loved experiencing the outside. I'm not going to dock a star as that would be silly, not as silly as Camelot but close!
This is a must visit for Monty Python and The Quest for The Holy Grail fans as well as Game of Thrones fans.
Most of castle shots in THG were at this site and as well as season one of GoT Winterfell.
Jerad Nolte — Google review
We loved our visit here in April 2023. Some areas were being actively worked on and were inaccessible. The audio tour was a lot of fun--included some sound from Monty Python's Quest for the Holy Grail, which shot several scenes here.
Mickey Deutsch — Google review
Great visit, so good I have been more than once. Audio tour is included in ticket price. Its part of the TV series Outlander tour. There are stairs in the castle some of them are a wee bit tight. Good souvenir shop. Great value. Parking available.
murray white — Google review
If you're a Monty Python fan of a fan of the TV series Outlander, then you simply must go. I got an audio guide for my tour of the castle.
Tip: If your hearing isn't quite up to scratch or you don't want to disturb others, take a pair of plug-in single pin headphones. I didn't know that before I went, and they would have been helpful. Of course, you don't need to have them as the speaker is perfectly fine. The castle itself, while perhaps not as grand as Stirling or Edinburgh castles, is still a must-see.
Alan Sheridan — Google review
Very impressive castle - didn't get to tour as we were too late. Still very nice walk around. Also, neat to learn that there was a Roman fort nearby. Didn't know they got this far north!
eric bundy — Google review
This review is just for the walk around the caste as we didn’t actually go in it. Around the castle is indeed lovey and there are plenty of spaces for a picnic or just a walk. There is a little sandy bit by the river that is especially nice. You can park the car in the town (free parking) and the walk over to the castle area is nice too with the river and fields. There seems to be quite a few dogs walkers and families which was perfect for us. Our 13, 9 and 4 year old loved the day our and came back muddy and happy.
Chris — Google review
Used in many films and TV shows. It's a lot more to see than it looks from the outside. Definitely worth a visit. Great little gift shop inside. Be careful turning in to the driveway, its very tight and some people don't pay as good attention.
Esteban Grande — Google review
Doune Castle is a wonderful castle to visit. We're huge Monty Python and the Holy Grail fans so this was a special visit. There is currently preservation efforts at the castle and a few areas with scaffolding. It's still a nice place to visit. Staff is friendly, dress is casual and prices are fair.
Juan Vila Rodriguez, Tampa Realtor — Google review
The interior is so well maintained with such a lot of furnishings from the past. Makes you feel that you have walked through time. Grounds are extraordinarily beautiful and the castle itself is magnificent. We were lucky to see the bird show as well.
Caroline Pinto — Google review
A most excellent visit to this Castle. It might be small but the history and it's fantastic audio guide is a must for all Monty python fans. With the added short walk by the river, it is so well worth it and highly recommended. Recommend getting there early due to small car park and maybe busy with large tours.
Oliver Whelan — Google review
A well maintained Castle where filming for Monty Python and Outlander has taken place. Free Audio guide. We spent around 2 hours exploring the Castle rooms and grounds.
Michele — Google review
Lovely small castle in a beautiful setting. The audio guide is especially nice because it features stars from Monty Python and Outlander. Also used by Game of Thrones for scenes of Winterfell.
Kristopher Justice — Google review
Castle was closed due to having a survey to check the masonry but I still wanted to visit as an Outlander fan. Didn't spend long here just took a few photos and walked down to the river. Staff were friendly at the car park!
Jennie B — Google review
Loved visiting here! It was so much fun taking the audio tour and hearing the voices of Monty Python and Outlander characters provide history and fun facts. The gift shop had some great finds and the parking attendants were very helpful as well.
Jennifer Miles — Google review
The self guided tour was set up extremely well. Stairs are narrow and steep. The references to Monty Python, Outlander, and Game of Thrones made it lots of fun to tour. Be sure to walk down to the brook, it was charming and soothing to the soul.
Debra Shoopman — Google review
If you're a fan of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, you'll recognize my pics. The audio tour by Terry Jones was great, even for my non-fan wife.
Oh, yeah. Some Outlander was shot here.
Chad Bramble — Google review
This is such an incredible castle, but I want to tell you that I absolutely do not recommend paying to go inside if you’re doing a tour with Rabbies. They only gave us 50 minutes in which didn’t even give us time to get halfway through the audio guide, i felt like I was ripped off. I recommend doing this but not with Rabbies!
Diana — Google review
The ancestral home of the Dukes of Albany. Not a large castle but well preserved in parts. There is a one way walk through with audio equipment commentary. Some of the spiral staircases are completely unsuitable for the elderly and infirm. I would suggest asking for advice from resident staff who are helpful,before purchasing tickets.It is £10 to park and enter,£8 for OAP's,a bit steep i felt for the short tour available. In recent decades the castle has become a famous film location,firstly when "Monty Python and the Holy Grail " was partially filmed there.More recently the site was taken over for the filming of the historic fictional" Outlander" still an ongoing production. Worth a visit ,by all means.
Dennis Smalley — Google review
Very well preserved,small castle. Good audio tour narrated by Terry Gilliam, that also has a special section about Outlander (audio tour is included in the entry price). Definitely worth a visit. Nice shop with good Monty Python and Outlander souvenirs.
Donna Spencer — Google review
The staff are so so friendly specially Jennet. The castle was so cozy and small, many series were filmed in it. I totally recommend going 💕
Chakraati Boutique — Google review
Really cool place to visit. Lots of great history and very well done exhibits and audio guides. If you're fans of Monty Python or Outlander this is a must visit location. And they even sell coconuts! (Monty Python fans understand) Really enjoyed our time here.
Chris Bern — Google review
It’s a tight turn on to a single track road to the castle. The car park is only small but is well kept with marked bays. There’s two free toilets at the back of the building in a container, and a sign for accessible toilets. (Ask the car park attendants).
We visited on a wet day, be careful on the wet cobblestones and at the entrance, it can get slightly muddy, although anti slip has been put down to help in places. We took the option of using the free audio tour which has Monty Python and Outlander commentary in the options. Restoration is being done and there are also railings up for safety.
The castle is well worth a look, it’s kept well, and is clean and tidy. It takes a couple of hours to do the audio tour and could take longer when it gets busy. There’s a small gift shop. No food or drink for sale but you can take a picnic as there’s a couple of tables to use on a nice day.
There are also walks around the outside of the castle to get different views.
The cricket pitch behind the village nursery school is on the site of a Roman Fort. There is an information stone in the ground near the road.
Dave Holland — Google review
I was so excited to see this place!! Highly recommend just taking your time going through the place. I kinda felt bad for all of the people that were on tours. They seemed to have rushed through while listening to the audio guides and didn't even take in everything they were looking at. Definitely a spectacular castle!!
Robert Shiver — Google review
We chose this castle to visit because it was on our way to Glencoe. I didn’t realize at the time that it was used for Outlander or Monty Python, but I was so happy to find that out!! We stopped by with no tickets, but the people there were happy to help us with that. Everyone working there was so very nice. It wasn’t busy so we mostly got to explore by ourselves. They have audio guides that you can use to learn about the castle as you go. A few are voiced by Sam
Heugan and the rest are by one of the guys from Monty Python. It was very interesting to learn about, and the castle was so neat!! We ended up spending waaaaay too much in the gift shop, lol, but I’m excited to take back all of the mementos.
Chapel in the Hollow — Google review
Not the biggest castle in the country, but interesting and informative. Staff were friendly and helpful and we enjoyed our visit
The imposing fortress of Stirling is one of Scotland's most popular tourist destinations. With its great hall, regimental museum and impressive views, the castle is a grand and memorable sight. It's best to visit in the afternoon when many tourists come on day trips.
Great castle so beautiful. The interior rooms are so bright and colourfully decorated the staff dress up and give you a very interactive experience and explain some of tapestries and castle features so wonderfully. Outside gardens are beautiful and as its spring they are full of bulbs.
Nicole McDonald — Google review
Brilliant! I loved the live talent. Also, I really enjoyed the kitchen scene built with lifelike mannequins. It makes it easier to imagine how things were at the time. I do enjoy houses that have furniture as opposed to those with empty rooms. The sunset from the castle was spectacular. I recommend the Explorer pass. I went to at least 4 or 5 castles, which well and truly covered the initial cost.
Nina Beilby — Google review
Sterling Castle is well worth the visit. Free tour included in your ticket, lasting approximately 55 minutes. Nice gift shop and cafe on site. It was nice to be able to explore both the outside and inside. Neat set of rooms that are focused on kids (educational and interesting and interactive).
Booked online in parking lot to save £2, but did not book in advance. Website will tell you how many tickets are left for the time you wish to visit, which is likely important if it's weekend and/or July/August
Meghan MacEachern Allen — Google review
We loved this castle. The gardens are beautiful. In the palace apartments there were people dressed in period costumes as nobleman, a musician and a security guard. The musician was playing the lute and was quite good. This really helped to bring the history to life. We were able to self guide through the buildings. It was a wonderful experience.
Sabiha Gokcen — Google review
Stirling castle is of great historical importance and well worth a visit. There is parking at the castle but can get busy. They usually have entertainment on for families to enjoy and there is a lot of focus on kids entertainment.
There are places to eat and there is wheelchair access to all ground level aspects of the castle along with certain areas with lifts.
Highly recommend a visit to the castle as there is something for everyone to either learn or enjoy.
Ahairy Haggis — Google review
Brilliant place to visit. Lots to see. Guides are very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Spoke as we walked past asking if we were enjoying our day, had we any questions.The military museum was thought provoking. The rest of the rooms we beautifully restored. So much history within the walls. Ate in the cafe, food was good, but not cheap.
sue snelling — Google review
One of the best castles I've been to. Perfect balance of old buildings that have stood the test of time, blended with re-creations spread through the castle rooms. The free guided tours are very popular too. As for the views, it's easy to see why the location of the castle was so important.
Smica Hargrove — Google review
Very busy, and with poor crowd control in places, and the cafe had literally nothing for those of us with dietary needs. Still, their loss was the gain of the much nicer lovely old town cafe just down the road.
Advertised outside at £15 a ticket but £19 I think it was at the ticket office. Just glad we could use our English heritage membership as that's a lot of cash for a family otherwise!
In terms of the castle, there were interesting things to see, with mostly interesting exhibitions. The kitchen was particularly interesting, and the gardens were nice. Great views from the top!
Nick Young — Google review
Nice place for a day trip from Edinburgh. The town is lovely as well. I recommend bringing some picnic food and having lunch outside to break up exploring the castle.
You save a bit of money if you buy tickets in advance online.
Georgie Wilson — Google review
Lots if hills and stairs. Loved everything about the place. Gift shop and cafe. Staff is helpful and friendly and serious about story telling. Graveyard at bottom is amazing. Buy ticket online for 2p off and timed entry
Stacey Radford — Google review
Loved the interactive sessions inside the palace. Good music and explanations by the performers about the history of the 15th century castle. So different from the usual 'Buckingham type' palace where they charge you for every single thing.
Also, this place has more historical importance than Edinburgh castle and Mary Queen of Scots lived her childhood years here.
I highly recommend this place.
joslin tj — Google review
Top notch tourist attractions. Love this castle and truly lots to see. The view is worth th. The price alone. Price is high but it is worth it. A total national treasure, I loved my visit there in October. Joint Most beautiful and interesting setting in Scotland. It is tied with Edinburgh Castle.
Darren Findlay — Google review
A fantastic day out! We had a beautiful sunny morning (not all that common in Scotland) and a fantastic tour guide leading us through the Castle. Spent a few hours there as there was so much to experience.
Aubrey Brawley — Google review
An absolutely superb historical castle experience. The only complaint is the 4 hour limit we had on the car park.
The Royal Palace is amazing with the interactive guides and all the displays. The gardens are beautiful and the views of Stirling are breathtaking.
The gift shops are well stocked with a good variety of items although there is a lot of tourist stuff, and it’s on the expensive side.
The catering was a bit chaotic, but it was busy. The food was good but nothing special and as you would expect a bit pricey.
There’s ticket options of online booking in advance or pay at the gate. There’s an electronic ticket collection point at the entrance. We paid on the gate, it took about 15 minutes because the first ticket machine in the office didn’t work.
Overall,it’s a great place to visit, you know it’s going to be expensive, but with the car park time limit and almost £20 each to get in. Is that value for money??
We only viewed two thirds of the attractions due to the time limit, and then there’s the grounds outside the castle.
Dave Holland — Google review
We visited the castle for Unicorn Day and it did not disappoint! We started with a guided tour, which was about an hour. Our guide, Tricia, did an amazing job of leading us through the castle’s history and making the past feel more real. We spent some time after the tour looking through some of the other spaces. The setup in the historic kitchen is very nice.
As for the unicorns, they were adorable! I couldn’t ride on, for good reason, but we could get fairly close. All of the kids there were so excited. It was fun watching their faces light up. Wished we could’ve stayed longer.
Scott Blake — Google review
Amazing amount of information available here. A beautiful well looked after Castle. Very friendly and helpful staff, very informative and very interactive with visiting kids (not that we have any). Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders museum within is also very informative. The cafe could do with more hot choices on a winters day though.
Neil Mackie — Google review
This is a must see for everyone especially fans of outlander as this very famous castle was used as a filming location. Of course it has historical importance which can be seen by its magnificent architecture. What I really enjoyed were the chats with the actors in each area that were really well versed in the castle's history. The views are also wonderful. There are some small museums too with some interesting exhibitions. Definitely should be on your list. If you aren't renting a car, there are many bus companies that include Stirling castle.
Leipzig ?Scott? Englisch — Google review
Glad to be able to use our English Heritage membership for this great castle. The history is laid out beautifully for all and the number of different locations, displays and exhibits made it a great day out. And that was before descending into the town's other incredible buildings & architecture.
barry sage — Google review
Had a fantastic experience, lots to see and do and we easily spent over 3 hours and still didn't get round everything. Price was very reasonable considering. As well as all the castle grounds we explored the museum, the Tapestry exhibition and the much more. Well worth a visit.
ojsims38 — Google review
Worth a visit if you don't mind 1000's of people walking around. Go early. Lots of parking in the town and surrounding roads and inside the castle grounds. Great views from the walls. Able to walk all around the castle walls. Relatively young castle compared to others in Scotland. Worth a visit though. Stirling town is quite nice to walk around too.
M Spooner — Google review
When we stayed in Edinburgh, we rented a car and took a day trip to visit Stirling Castle. We did not buy tickets in advance, and had no problem getting any at the ticket booth. And it was not a long wait. We personally did have a limited time here, unfortunately. If you do go be sure you have enough time here and are not rushed. We were there for about an hour and we were able to get through most of what we wanted to. The view from here is absolutely beautiful! You can drive your car up and there is a parking lot (car park). You do have to pay to park though. Make sure you get there early enough to get parking because it filled up fast. They had bathrooms there that were clean. And of course there were gift shops, which are always fun to check out.
LeAnne DiCostanzo — Google review
Stirling Castle is a favorite of ours- I feel the site is very well balanced in terms of who it caters to and subject matter. Aside from having the best views, sweeping skies across all of the area- take your time inside its walls as well! Plenty for our 7-11yr old kids to read and interact with, and plenty for the adults as well. Older history of the castle, clans, lifestyles and battles can be learned- but also the military museum is here with more recent history, all included with your admission. Art and culture explained in great detail, style and flair, religion and of course drama- highly recommend a day trip to Stirling!
Heather Eshelby — Google review
We went to the castle on a weekend. The worry was that there wouldn’t be enough parking for our slot starting at 11:00 . We reached there and the drive was pretty good and found parking spots . It was very well managed.
The castle itself is amazing, we were there for nearly 3-4 hours and I couldn’t believe how many things were there to see inside the castle
From the wonderfully preserved rooms to all the exhibitions this was truly an amazing trip.
It’s a stunning castle with a lot to do and I would definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to go.
Ajay — Google review
I loved spending time at Stirling Castle. It really took me back in time and allowed me to better understand a bit better the roots of Scotland. It has plenty of parking spots (at a 4 pounds charge) and everybody in Castle’s crew were very polite and friendly. Ticket is 20 pounds and will give access to the full range experience within the castle (a must have). Prepare to spend at least 2 hours within.
Fabricio Sanchez — Google review
Buy tickets online and save a few quid. On street parking available with four hours free or can pay 4 pound to park on grounds. Castle is full of history and well maintained. Enjoyed our visit and in a few rooms they have people in character which is good giving a brief but detailed descriptions of the rooms and history of the castle. Good value for money you can have a guided tour but we just did it at our own pace.
J Lloyd — Google review
Lovely castle and worth the quick hop on a train from Edinburgh. There's a lot to see and explore plus you can eat at a Cafe in a Castle. Super fun experience after they've done an incredible job in repairing and bringing the castle back to what it looked like.
Jason Fair (Nomadic Nerd Project) — Google review
This was a fantastic part of my trip. So much information! I was told to book ahead, and I did. I went even earlier than planned. There are so many artifacts to look at. Beautiful walking areas, the stone castle is gorgeous. All the workers were fantastic and helpful, there are even free tours. They have it set up easy to follow, signs and directions. Good rest stops, signs easy to read to learn, audio is available. Because of the paths, bricks, etc wear good shoes. I think everyone who visits, should see this! Special and memorable!
Delise Lazarenko — Google review
My visit to Stirling Castle was truly enchanting! Stepping through its historic gates felt like journeying back in time. The stunning architecture, panoramic views, and rich heritage captivated my senses. A must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Scotland's regal past and breathtaking beauty.
Kevin Kammesri — Google review
Interesting historic castle,crucially for the time period 1300 to 1600. Free 70 min tour is included in the ticket price and highly recommended.
The interior of the castle is nicely prepared. From the outside not so many nice photo locations (other than Edinburgh castle).
Recommended visit
Ralf Gosch — Google review
Very interesting and historic castle. It is definitely worth a visit and I can only recommend it to everybode who is in the area. For the parking, one ticket with audio guide I paid 26.50 pounds. I roamed around the castle and the audio guide gives plenty of information about all the kings and Queen Mary. The parking is huge and you can drive up the hill all the way to the castle.
Cheyenne Blatter — Google review
Awesome Castle with the best Scottish history behind it. Set atop a massive crag towering over Stirling the Castle has loads of interactive stuff for the kids. There are guides in every part of the castle and even my four year old was enthralled! Over a thousand years of history laid out!
Niall McClay — Google review
Husband and I visited during our Scotland castle tour and Stirling Castle does not disappoint! There is so much history here and it’s worth the stop.
We initially planned two hours to explore and ended up staying for three and a half hours! You do have to pay £4 for parking and it’s only good for four hours. Keep this in mind!
The staff is so kind and you can ask them any questions about the history of the castle. We spent quite a bit of time talking to them about unknown facts and really enjoyed asking questions.
Make sure you look for Mary Queen of Scot’s lookout. She was too short to see over the walls as a child so they cut a little hole for her!
This is a must visit and I highly recommend it! We got the Scotland Explorer Pass and this was included. You do have to book an entrance time, but it s very easy to do online.
New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a former cotton mill industrial village renowned for its social experiment during the Industrial Revolution. The site boasts of a large roof garden that offers panoramic views, making it an attractive destination for tourists. This historic location provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the influence of industry on society and how this shaped modern-day living.
One of the best places to visit in southern Scotland. Really lovely and off the beaten track. Museum and shop etc. Great walks. I make a point of stopping by here whenever I'm in Scotland.
Beth Mitchell — Google review
Bizarre wee place but what a cool and wonderful history! The walk to the waterfalls is short and well worth the effort! Unfortunately not accessible for wheel chair users but the rest of the premises is! Great little afternoon out and the hotel had some good grub!
Jeremy Young — Google review
Visited here six years ago and enjoyed it so we decided to give it another visit wow! It was worth it and the walk to the falls was so good we sat and relaxed listening to the sound of the water fall. The Clyde is also used to produce electricity which is good for all who is connected. The wife and i loved it.
Bill Butler — Google review
It's interesting to hear about what it is like in the factory. It was good to see some working machines. Owens house was interesting as I had heard a lot about his contribution to socialism. To be honest I'm not sure the pod ride was necessary to learn about it and it might have been as good to have walked through but I guess others would like the novelty. The soup and scone in the restaurant was nice too. I also find the village architecturally interesting. But the piece de resistance is the falls of Clyde for a stunning walk.
Thomas Quinn — Google review
Great day out for the kids and have a nice walk by the water. My daughter thought it was amazing using the payphone to phone her grandad. I found the water hypnotic to watch after the heavy rain fall.
Nicole Devlin — Google review
Highly recommended for New Year! Fireworks, pipers, bells, dancing, and excellent food. The staff could not have been more friendly and helpful.
Sharon Eaton — Google review
Came here to walk the Falls of Clyde. Absolutely Awe inspiring! We're comfortable shoes, some mud and steps along the way. Fantastic water feature. The New Lannark Mills are a fantastic visit but I did not go to them this time.
Nicola June Potts — Google review
This is somewhere I've wanted to visit for a long time as interested in industrial history. The restoration of the mill buildings and tenement blocks has been done to a high standard. It is a living museum in that it still makes wool and people live on site. The story of Robert Owen is amazing and he was so ahead of his time in improving conditions for workers and encouraging education for all. There is a large gift shop and cafe. Would have liked to have seen a clear display of items made with their wool, larger than the one in the manufacturing area, which could be easily missed. It has lost a star because of the wait to get in. There was only one person on the ticket desk and a large party arrived when we did and it took a long time to process them. We were then behind them in the queue for the ride. There was no clear signage to say if you could bypass the ride and come back to it later. The signage that was there, about health conditions, should have been earlier in the queue to give time to change route. Some displays were contradictory and dated.
So overall definitely worth a visit but could do with a bit of tweaking to improve the experience.
Fern A — Google review
Lovely Hotel in a gorgeous setting.
Scenic walk along the River Clyde.
3 course dinner was lovely and there was a good choice.
Great choice for breakfast. Continental or full breakfast were on offer.
Bedroom was large and looked out onto the river.
Wouldn't say spotless. Cobwebs hanging from ceiling and stuck to walls. Skirting boards had a thick layer of dust on them.
TV plug had label attached saying it had been serviced in April. Hadn't been dusted since.
Dish in bathroom to hold liquid soap wS also very dusty.
Karen Ali — Google review
Visually stunning. We never went into any of the exhibitions but just enjoyed the walk along the River Clyde. This in itself was worth the visit with the birdsong and the music of the river. We enjoyed lunch in the restaurant, which was very nice and the staff were very friendly.
ian walker — Google review
Amazing location. Lots of walks for different levels. Lots of beautiful sights to see and nature to look at. The place itself is incredibly beautiful. Almost like you've stepped back in time
Holly Anderson — Google review
Great place !! Take the kids and enjoy the ride through history... If you gift aid your tickets last a year !! Beautiful views, brilliant gift shop and if you're local they do farmers markets etc so it's win win 😊
feehay650 — Google review
New Lanark Mill Hotel is in such a beautiful location. Lovely old buildings, cobbled streets, and fantastic views over the Falls of Clyde. Spacious rooms. Food is super. Friendly, welcoming staff. Brilliant pool & jacuzzi. Highly recommended. 👍🏻
SuperPinny — Google review
A beautifully preserved part of our industrial heritage.
Well worth the visit.
Easy to get to if you're a tourist in Glasgow without a car.
Take the train from Glasgow to Lanark. It's every half an hour and takes and hour.
Right by the train station in Lanark is the Bus Stance. Take the 135 bus to New Lanark, it drops you right by the door. The bus is hourly, at the time of my review it leaves at 34 minutes past the hour.
Sean O'Neill — Google review
Really interesting visitors centre.
Great walk to all the falls.
Free bus back to the car park was the icing on the cake!
clare booth — Google review
Fabulous setting good day out hotel has a spa good scenery and walks very hilly. Stayed in cottage very spacious but basic.Didnt go to museum did gift shop and area around. Good day out take packed lunch if weathers nice very pricey in cafe . Hotel has restaurant as well.
Lynniloo Ady — Google review
Fascinating place and on such a huge scale.
Very interesting history, especially liked seeing where the wool is spun and produced.
Lovely cakes in the café.
As the mills are on the valley floor along the river, the paths down to them from the car park are very steep. There is a shuttle bus that runs back and forth between the two.
Sam Palmer — Google review
A large site with a lot to see. With the car park at the top of a steep hill, a problem for those with mobility issues. The shuttle bus only runs at weekends.
It was very interesting seeing how people lived and worked there in the past.
David Smith — Google review
Had a brilliant time visiting New Lanark.
Lots of interesting information about New Lanark as well as wider issues such as history, society and the local area, presented in an easy and fun way to understand, there is even a small ride to show you around and explain points in a bite sized way.
Nice that the village was open to wander around and see how the rest of life was in the past.
Very clean, good condition buildings and friendly, enthusiastic staff.
Stewart Richardson — Google review
Great experience, superb reconstruction of the mill and the lives of the workers. Exhibitions are modern and relevant; there's even a ride to experience the life of a mill working child.
Nice cafe on site. The waterfall is worth the walk along the wooded path. Open houses are fascinating and very authentic.
You can spend several hours there, so well worth the entrance fee.
Michael Lees — Google review
The mill visitor experience was fascinating and well designed. I particularly enjoyed the chair ride with the ghosts of mill workers, and the roof garden. The café was lovely! Plus the workers' cottages and Robert Owen's house.
Kathryn McFarlane — Google review
Brilliant day out wandering around the mill and surrounding area. Walk up to view the falls(only about ten minutes walk) and then around the houses in the village area. We arrived early,so we drove down the hill to park and didn't have the long walk. There's a school house, owners house, and then the whole of the mill to view,so set aside a good couple of hours.
Lyn Bostock — Google review
Great for an energetic walk up to the Falls of Clyde and on to Bonnington Linn and back to New Lanark Mill.
Nice fresh light lunches available, the carrot and ginger soup was fab.
A visit to the Mill itself is very memorable with its amazing historical past 👍
david edwards — Google review
Amazing place.So much to see. What a fantastic job the Trust have made. Cafe is really good. Lots of walk and amazing views. Don't miss the ice cream shop.
sue snelling — Google review
Lovely place, we walked up along side the Clyde, lovely views of the falls then a light lunch in the hotel. Excellent staff very friendly and polite. Excellent food highly recommended the Korean cauliflower.
Nick Allen — Google review
Fascinating place - it really has to be seen to appreciate this Victorian landmark. I spent a happy few hours last month wandering around looking at the buildings and going to the falls of Clyde viewpoint.
P.S. Don't do what I did and walk from Lanark to New Lanark by the road, you can reach New Lanark from Lanark by a woodland trail (map attached) avoiding the road completely :)
Laura FF — Google review
Such a beautiful place worth stunning walks. It has a play park for kids and there's a cafe aswell. Certainly worth a visit. I haven't stayed in the hotel but have many friends that have and they rave about it.
Woodland area rich in wildlife, with a sequence of waterfalls, plus a visitor centre.
Lovely forest walk along a river. Both boardwalk and dirt trail surfaces. Some inclines and stairs, but an easy/moderate walk overall.
Well maintained paths with many beautiful views of the river below. Could do 5km walk a little past the falls overlook that we did or continue on a full loop through another small town that leads back to New Lanark. Fun and quick trip from Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Make sure to stop by the information desk in New Lanark before beginning the walk. Really interesting history: William Wallace and his men supposedly hid within some of the river caves, the social elite during the world wars visited the falls as a popular tourist destination because they couldn’t go to France, etc.
Connor Hughes — Google review
Excellent reserve, a lovely walk with the family. Some lovely spots to take photographs. Take hiking boots some part's are mucky.
paddybhoy7 — Google review
The falls of Clyde down in Lanark, is a remarkable place in the world. Quite literally you can feel the history flowing around you.. the museum tells you the story but to watch the water for any small amount of time and you can see why the location is perfect for the factory. A great visit for all ages.
David Kelly — Google review
Well worth a visit. We started our walk from New Lanark and headed up past the Grade A Listed stone chimney of the old Retort House near Dundaff Linn.
From there we followed an excellent riverside path to Bonnington hydro-electric power station.
We continued up to the Corra Linn viewing point, where you get a great view of the falls.
A few steps further up and you're at the top.
It's a bit of a climb to the top, but well worth the effort, and the steps & path are well maintained.
Alan Millin — Google review
We did the full circular walk which was about 7/8 miles. Very interesting but the path on the opposite side of the river from New Lanark was pretty impassable in places due to huge fallen trees.
joanne smith — Google review
Very nice and well maintained walking path along the river to reach the falls of Clyde. Along the way, you can read about the natural habitat of the woods. It's definitely worth walking all the way to the dam.
Norbert Leimeiszter — Google review
Fantastic place to walk around with your family and friends. Natural and unexploited place. First hydroelectricity project in Scotland which looks great. The river is beautiful and gorges heavily. Awesome scenery around.
Sital Karki — Google review
Always amazing place to visit. Calm clean and serene. Beautiful waterfall surrounded by country side walks.
Dipesh Gosar — Google review
Amazing falls with high water volume. Good viewing point. Forest trails nearby. Peregrine falcons in the cliffs.
Walter Patterson — Google review
A beautiful walk, especially on a nice day. There are benches onto he way round to sit and relax and they have information about the wildlife and the trail posted as you go. Biggest downfall is no bins on the way round.
Gemma R — Google review
I had a wonderful time at the Falls of Clyde! The waterfalls were absolutely stunning and the surrounding nature was breathtaking. The trails were well-maintained and easy to navigate, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The visitor center was informative and the staff were friendly and helpful. I especially loved the views from the top of the falls. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and I would highly recommend this scenic area to anyone looking for a beautiful outdoor adventure!
Snarf — Google review
Absolutely stunning view when you get to the viewpoint. Do not recommend the trail for anyone who has mobility issues or who, like me, are just overweight and extremely unfit!! There is a steep decline from the top carpark at new Lanark, and then an incline and stairs on the trail to get to the viewpoint itself.
The trail is easy to find from the New Lanark site, simply follow the badger signs. I would imagine it gets a little muddy in the dreary Scottish weather, so would recommend a visit when it is nice and dry.
Some of the walk is a little bit scary for those with vertigo or a fear of heights, but the view is amazing. You can continue round the trail for more sights, but I was happy to turn back at the falls viewpoint and make my way back to the village.
Lynsey Harte — Google review
Stunning place especially when river in full powerful flow
Sharon Johnston — Google review
Beautiful spot. Great walking path. Beautiful scenery. This is a must see place.
Randall Eckerich — Google review
Famous autumn walk to Falls of Clyde. River was in spate, so the sight was brilliant! Tree-colours were beautiful!
Alasdair Fyfe — Google review
Fantastic place for some thinking.
If you looking for a peaceful view this is where you want to go
Mitch Woodhouse — Google review
Superb place for hikers, trail lovers. A bit of a walk for small kids but can opt for shorter walk instead of full course. Trails are free but Museum and other attractions are on paid basis. Food/ice cream and souvenir shops around the main building entrance. A bit of caution when you drive Park your car at New Lanark car park point. If you follow the falls of Clyde view point directly on google map car drive mode then you may end up to SP energy substation point which is very limited to 3-4 cars and not meant for public parking and you may have to return to the New Lanark car park point.
The Falkirk Wheel is a remarkable and distinctive boat lift that was constructed in 2002 to link the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. This modern engineering feat features a rotating mechanism that raises vessels by 115ft from one canal to the other. Visitors can embark on boat trips departing from the lower basin, which pass through Roughcastle Tunnel before completing their return journey via the wheel.
What an amazing experience. The sun was shining. The trip was excellent. The Captain and Crew were knowledgeable and really funny. The engineering aspects were incredible and the views spectacular. Ended the trip with lunch at the Boardwalk. Highly recommend both.
pam birtle — Google review
For the mechanical-minded and water-loving sorts, this is a must visit. There are many family-oriented activities in and around the Falkirk Wheel. Great for a day out, as there is a cafeteria and store on site. There seems to be ample low cost parking. There is no other cost to visit, unless you take a boat ride on the Wheel and canal, or participate in one of the other on-site activities.
Jeremy H. — Google review
An astonishingly beautiful piece of engineering that's more like a work of art. The views from the top are fantastic. Don't forget to check out the light show in the Falkirk Tunnel a short distance along the Union Canal heading towards Edinburgh - magical.
Brian Kennedy — Google review
amazing boat trip, boat was packed so would recommend booking before hand. all staff were really polite and helpful, coffee cakes etc all available there too! gift shop had loads of options.
lauren perkins — Google review
The world first and only rotating boat lift. It’s a fantastic innovation and unique piece of boat lift to connect the surrounding Canals. Well worth the visit to explore the area and admire this amazing engineering work 🏴
PH PC — Google review
I have lived here all my life and never been here. I wasn't disappointed. The boat ride was really interesting and was good to learn all about it. The crew were amazing and very knowledgeable. The views are spectacular. It is definitely something to experience. There is a cafe with outdoor seating so you can enjoy a coffee and cake whilst watching the wheel in action. And of course a gift shop with plenty of items. A great day out for all the family.
Sharon Noble — Google review
Really amazing! Very cool bit of engineering, and the park for the kids within the facility is fantastic. Caters really well to families and the amenities are well kept. Really looking forward to taking a canal boat down the Falkirk wheel in the future. Definitely recommend.
Alex Sewell — Google review
An original place to spend time with the family. It has a very large playground and the walk around the place is very good. You can see how the boats rise on the wheel to continue their journey through the canal. it is worth the visit. Don't miss the colored tunnel located in the upper part of the canal.
Javisa Australia — Google review
Stunning piece of engineering designed to raise and lower boats between (I hope I have this right) the Falkirk Canal and the Forth and Clyde canal. Getting to and walking all round the Wheel is free but you can pay to do a boat ride that takes you up and down in the wheel or you can just watch this happening. There's a large a friendly cafe there. Not very easy to access on public transport. I took a train from Edinburgh and cycled. I've included a video of the wheel in action.
Angus Hamilton — Google review
A wonderful piece of architecture. I was full of admiration for how it worked and it still works very well. My journey here took me 5 hours, I was so happy that I finally managed to see it and the weather was good. I recommend spending time there with your family, There is a playground, a shooting range, and water balls and I plan to finish building water rockets for children to shoot at. Inside there is a shop, 1 large restaurant and a stand for buying sandwiches and coffee, toilets and beautiful works of local artists. The area has 2 access roads, 3 large parking lots, and pedestrian and bicycle paths. The entire area is green, but wear a warm jacket or sweatshirt because sometimes it is windy and you will be cold. I recommend it, I will come here again.
The price of parking is favorable, see the photo in the gallery how much it costs to park.
Kinia K — Google review
Went to visit the Falkirk Wheel in January 2024. Unfortunately the wheel was under maintenance work but most of the wheel was lit up and we were still able to visit and see the wheel. Lots of fun too. Also huge respect’s to the owners of the site as there was maintenance happening the car park was permitted as free. Huge thanks to the respects there!
kindness ARK — Google review
Lovely site,something I've wanted to see for sometime. We were able to park beside the shop being a blue badge holder! As the cafe was packed we bought the most amazing hot chocolate from the mobile coffee van, delicious!
Susan Bradford — Google review
As a tourist destination this has everything you expect. Expensive coffee, expensive food a gift shop and something to look at.
To be fair, parking is free and there is lots for the kids to do, just happens that we're adults so I have to be fair in review.
The kids playground was nice and if you wanted to avoid paying parking at The Kelpies they are just a 90 minute walk along the canal.
It was interesting to see the Wheel spin but unfortunately due to high winds boat tours were not running.
If it's your first time in Scotland, got kids with you or you're particularly interested in Canals this place is an obligatory stop.
Robin Steer — Google review
Great engineering matter. Must see near to Edinburgh, Stirling or Glasgow. Wait for moving, a ship flows in, the carousel moves and the ship is high above you and goes on direction glasgow. Great experience. I also recommend taking more time for a longer walking around the wheel. The nature scenes with views are beautiful, good for your healthy and they are amazing places for your photography. After walking don't hesitate to refresh yourself by a coffee in restaurant next to wheel.
Robert Fillner — Google review
We recently visited her in May half term, we managed to get parked fairly easily, there is a charge for the car park. The wheel itself is very interesting to see, we booked for a ride on the boat up the wheel and along part of the canal and back. It was reasonably priced and you receive information about the wheel and history of canals on board. We really enjoyed it as a family.
We also played on the water balls on the surrounding water which the children loved and the little boats. The staff were friendly and we didn't have to wait long. There was also a play park there.
There was other activities you could book there such as bike hire and archery however we didn't book these.
There was toilets, food and coffee vans as well as a shop for souvenirs.
We had a fab few hours here and would definitely recommend a visit.
Victoria Topping — Google review
If you are into amazing engineering then this is a must see if you're anywhere nearby. Essentially it is a boat lift which lifts canal boats from the lower canal up 35m to a higher canal via a huge wheel, thus avoiding the need for multiple locks. Plenty of information and a visitor centre, plus well laid out canal side walks linking various places of interest and local towns and villages. Very interesting.
Steve Mann — Google review
An engineering marvel and must see , enjoy a trip on barge (do book it) or just walk around the park. Walk to the top and see the barges load up , you can also walk though the tunnel and over the top back. At the bottom there’s a kids water play area (see pics) and you can also hire SUPS.
Spencer Hudson — Google review
Good signposts to get to the car park. ANPR is used for the car parking. Drop off is free, take the ticket at the barrier, drive down, drop off, drive back to the barrier, scan the ticket and drive out. 20 minutes is the limit.
Payment for parking is via ticket validation at the yellow machines, card only.
This is an amazing piece of engineering and physics. We managed to get tickets for the last trip of the day, which was just a full rotation of the wheel as there was not enough time to have the full trip before the attraction closed. The guides on they trip boat were fantastic, they were informative, funny and ensured everyone was safe and enjoyed the trip.
There are quite a few activities around the area including the Antonine Wall, the canal tunnel, walking trails, water balls, shooting range, a playground or you can just watch the boats.
Inside the visitor centre there are information boards on how and where the wheel was made and built. There’s also a restaurant, a gift shop, toilets and a parking payment machine.
It’s well worth a visit, we can’t wait to go back to do the full trip, but this time book a trip time in advance.
Dave Holland — Google review
We visited on a wet day but this meant it was quiet, great gift shop and cafe and you can book a boat trip to experience the wheel in motion. Really is worth watching it in action. Lots of side attractions to spend more time. Free to see the wheel and only needed to pay for parking, £3 for as long as you needed, definitely worth a visit.
Sarah Welek — Google review
It wasn’t very clear how the place works. We looked around for ticket prices or times for things but wasn’t easy so sort of gave up. Tried to play mini golf but couldn’t get the kit. Other people were playing and we went to the hire place and it said golf was opening soon go there, but golf had a sign to go to hire. Gave it 10 mins and gave up as patience of a nearly 3 year old is thin 😂
Everything looked closed so maybe just bad timing. Looks like in the summer could be really good. Visited April Easter holidays.
Melanie Comerford — Google review
An amazing feat of engineering. We were given a lot of information by one of the staff a really well worth trip. Unfortunately, when we were there, the basin was drained whilst they undertook engineering work. Buy still worth the trip.
David Trenbath — Google review
Excellent solo visit midweek during half term. Admired watching the wheel operate from the hill (near segway) before descending to the visitor center. Grabbed a delicious macaroni cheese for lunch, the cafe was buzzing, lovely friendly staff. Booked the last 90 min wheel boat ride. There was clearly lots of activities to keep you busy, but I just admired this marvel of engineering and its many photographic opportunities. The tour was great and well worth doing. Something quite surreal about ascending and descending silently afloat. Plenty of parking, clean, ample toilet facilities, cafe and coffee bar with indoor seating, and gift shop.
Rebecca Grimbly — Google review
One of a kind engineering wonder that will make you wonder what's next?
A great place for kids and friends to explore.
Try the gift shop and don't forget to buy some tablets.
No not the iPad or android kind. It's a snack. Ask the store keeper.
Mahmoud Nowaz — Google review
Although we have been a few times, the weather was good enough for us to pretend we were tourists and it didn't disappoint!
We went with our now 6 year old son. There were plenty of activities for him. He chose to do the wee paddling boats, and then we played with the archimedes water pumps, which im so glad are back in action! Super cute! Then we went into the playing area until it was our time for the boat trip.
The ticket was a bit pricey, but we thoroughly enjoyed it! The guy doing the commentary was funny and engaging. Got some stunning photos!
100% recommended to both tourists and non-tourists! #falkirk #falkirkwheel
Abbas Aliakbar — Google review
Unfortunately we visited the Wheel during its maintenance time, but a friendly Scottish gentlemen with a black Labrador informed us that it would be back in operation in March. I wasn’t bothered it wasn’t running, just looking at it and reading about the facts of the Wheel was enough for me. There was a gift shop and coffee shop in the visitor centre so it was nice to enjoy a coffee and scone and looking at the Wheel. We shall definitely come back to see it again. It’s worth noting that if you are a Blue Badge holder like my fiancé is, parking is free when the Wheel is operating. In the winter months the barriers are up so any vehicle is free which I think is really nice.
I’ve put I recommend booking tickets in advance purely because when the Wheel is operational again I expect it’ll be busy, so save yourself some time and get the tickets online.
Can’t wait to come back!
Kathryn Hall — Google review
13% as popular as Glasgow
10 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Edinburgh
Crieff Visitor Centre is a charming destination in Crieff, United Kingdom. The center offers ample parking, including designated disabled bays for easy accessibility. Visitors can enjoy a delightful dining experience at the on-site cafe and explore the gift shop featuring quality products and friendly service. The antiques glass section and jewelry offerings are particularly noteworthy, with reasonable prices to entice shoppers. Additionally, guests have the opportunity to witness glassmaking demonstrations at certain times.
Love the little antiques glass section, prices are very reasonable. I’ve got a few good things from here before. Great prices too on jewellery. Also you can watch the glass being made at certain times. Shop is good as well.
L R — Google review
Nestled in the picturesque town of Crieff, Scotland, the Crieff Visitor Centre offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and adventure. From the moment you step foot into this charming establishment, you are greeted with warm hospitality and a wealth of information about the local area.
The center's interactive exhibits provide a fascinating insight into Crieff's rich heritage, showcasing its evolution from a small rural settlement to a bustling hub of activity. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of the town's past, from its role in the Jacobite uprisings to its significance in the whisky trade.
One of the highlights of the Crieff Visitor Centre is its engaging demonstrations and workshops. Whether it's learning the art of traditional Scottish crafts or sampling the finest local produce, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The center's knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer questions and offer guidance, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the experience.
For those seeking outdoor adventure, the surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for exploration. From scenic walking trails to adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, Crieff offers something for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
Overall, the Crieff Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best that Scotland has to offer. With its blend of history, culture, and adventure, it's sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
M Ali — Google review
Enjoyable afternoon. Friendly staff and nice food. A little bit cold sitting at the window, but it was a very cold day outside. Loved the gift shop.
Jane Neilson — Google review
Visited on the last day of our holiday in the area, and was quite disappointed by the selection in the gift shop and plant centre. Had hoped there might be products made locally or in the area but it was all the usual generic stuff you will find in any similar store across the country, we even spotted products that are from the area we live in! The glass shop had a lot of products, but nothing that caught my eye enough to purchase (not all of it was produced on-site). Didn't visit the cafe so can't comment on that. The one plus I would say is there is a decent sized grassy area for exercising your dog, and dogs are allowed in the gift shop.
Stacey Dougal — Google review
It's nice place to go and stop for coffee and 🎂. They have lovely glass art.
FEDDAR MATDAR — Google review
Always so helpful at the centre. Lots of items to tempt you. Cafe is reasonable and good. The centre has a loyalty card scheme.
Heather Anne Johnson — Google review
A decent stroll from town centre. Unfortunately, it looks a bit run down from the outside. Shop inside has lots of little things. Nice big cafe with plenty of room.
DENISE MACDONALD — Google review
I was slightly disappointed on my last visit to find a reduced menu available in the Drovers restaurant. Although the place was relatively quiet, the service was slow. However, food was good and reasonably priced.
Brian Sharp — Google review
We had lunch in the Cafe. Whilst it looked older from the outside the food and service were really good.
The gift shop had some interesting quality products and really friendly service.
Caithness Glass was beautiful and the service we received from
Martin was top notch. Martin went out of his way to make sure we found what we wanted. Recommend the entire experience.
Carolyn Lapsley — Google review
A good place to visit for a quick lunch.
We tried to see the Caithness glass workshop but the staff appeared to be on a break.
Lunch was OK but nothing startling and the staff were a little sour faced. So much so, even one of our party commented on it and she was usually oblivious to everything.
The gentleman serving in the Caithness shop was EXCELLENT. He was pleasant, welcoming and just downright nice!
We struggled to get parked close enough for those of us with mobility issues to get into the centre. The carpark leaves a lot to be desired. It's full of pot holes and disabled parking is limited with no designated spaces marked by lines. If we'd managed to get in the area we wouldn't have had room to open the doors, so closely parked were the vehicles.
Disabled parking has wider spaces yo allow for wheelchair users etc., but this was a free for all.
Tracy Robinson — Google review
Had lunch there before looking around and buying. I recommend the lentil soup and delicious apple pie. The shop is well laid out there is plenty of space for me to walk around as I'm disabled so it's really appreciated.
stella — Google review
Nice large eating area. Coffee and cake very good. Friendly staff.
Janet Taylor — Google review
I went here for a birthday lunch, as a treat to myself and the young man I support because our birthdays fall around the same time of year: he's a wheelchair user and so I can comment on accessibility too.
Parking at the visitor centre is plentiful, there are a good number of disabled bays at the front of the building, which makes it a short walk into the centre. It's pretty flat and I had no problem pushing the wheelchair into the building.
The shop sells a good mix of souvenirs as well as unusual gifts and some local crafts. There's also the usual touristy tat, but that certainly doesn't dominate and it can be expected. Attached to the centre is a small museum and a place where they used to do glass blowing... I'm not sure if they still do that...since we only went for the food.
The toilets are just next to the shop. The disabled toilet is big enough to navigate into, however a solo wheelchair user might have difficulty turning the chair in there to get out, or managing the door ny themselves.
The café area is bright and spacious. No problems getting a good seat and the tables have enough leg clearance to fit a wheelchair under. There are also booths which may be more appropriate for families.
To order you have to join the queue and speak to someone who will take your hot food order. A separate person will take a hot drinks order and a third will tally it all up and take payment. You then take a seat with your allocated number, and someone will bring your food to you. There is a good selection of home baking and cans of juice...as well as fizzy juice on tap.
Because of covid restrictions you need to ask for condiments when paying.
I ordered a steak and haggis pie, and my friend ordered the special Drover's burger. Portions are generous and the chips are nice and thick cut. Veg on the plate was nice and varied. Pastry was crispy and the meat was beautifully tender and cooked well. My friends burger looked great. It had cheese, haggis, egg as well as a side of whisky sauce. We both scoffed the lot without any problems!
To finish we even had a small cream sponge cake each.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the visitors' centre for food. It's reasonably priced, excellent quality with good portions and the accessibility is good.
Barry Allan Scott — Google review
Nice place , the glass factory was awesome, worth the time , the restaurant there serves decent food.
Aravind R — Google review
A lovely place, the glass blowing factory was in operation so could watch, across the rd is the famous Christmas shop.
Richard Graham — Google review
Felt a couple of the ladies (one on till and other from kitchen)
didn't care (separate occasions) . Mushrooms at breakfast were terrible... greasy and chewy.
Steak pie is fabulous.
Annie Burman — Google review
Fantastic place. Wheelchair friendly, dog friendly and good parking, also with staff. Good excellent as was service. Have returned many times.
The Kelpies are magnificent horse sculptures at the entrance of Forth & Clyde Canal, named after Scottish water-horses. These steel equine statues stand tall at 30 meters and pay tribute to the working horses that used to haul barges along the canal. Visitors can see them for free from the M9 motorway between Edinburgh and Stirling or join a guided tour that takes them inside the sculptures.
Sculptures are awesome 😍 definitely "must visit" place. Worth every minute.
Benefits-free car park, pleasant walks along the canal, lots of green space. Nearby road did not bother me much. Lovely restaurant with beautiful views of statues, great tasting coffee and delicious carrot cake.
22dotih — Google review
An amazing place to visit. These sculptures are brilliant. Set in a lovely country park next to the canal. Easy level walking on well maintained pathways. FREE parking too 👍The visitor centre, gift shop and cafe are all worth visiting. Good value for money gifts, good coffee, lots of information on the history of the Kelpies and a children's activity area as well. I don't think you'd get a day out of visiting but definitely a few good hours.
Gary Herring — Google review
Lovely place to go and visit. You can, of course, see them from the motorway, but if you get the chance to park up (free parking) and have a little walk along the river to see this its definitely worth it.
Paul Slater — Google review
It is such a great place to visit. The massive statues is built by using a some kind like a steel materials. You can enjoy the view with calm atmosphere there. There are small store selling snacks and coffee at the side. The place is far from the train station, you need to take a bus or taxi to get there from train station.
Arief Rahman Hakim — Google review
It's a lovely place for a picnic and photo sessions. There is a wonderful picturesque walk by the canals.
It was a bit boring to listen to the tour guide. Listening to how much metal they have used for building the horses was irrelevant because you come here to enjoy the ambience and the scenery
Valeria Ryadinska — Google review
An interesting pair of sculptures.
It's some sort of Mafia memorial. 😉🤣
There are guided tours that will answer all of your questions about the sculptures.
No matter what you think of horses, they're magnificent.
Just be careful where you stand while taking pictures, as several birds roost in the statues, and...well, you know what birds do after they eat.
There are toilets, refreshments and a souvenir shop in the main building.
Plenty of other snack choices from vendors in the area of the sculptures.
Mark Hampson — Google review
We visited the Kelpies on two separate weekdays, the first occasion was early evening. We were charged £2 to park in the closest car park which had a toilet block. It’s easy access to get to view them from here. There’s a small cafe and gift shop which unfortunately were closed when we got there.
The Kelpies are very impressive, the nearer you get the better they are. Picture’s don’t do them justice. Apparently they don’t light up until it’s getting dark.
There’s plenty of seating to enjoy an ice cream close by or you can spend anything up to an hour just ambling around the area taking in the views and chilling.
On the second visit we decided to call in for coffee and cake but this time we found out that the car park charge was £4. ??? Don’t know why there was a sudden increase but we didn’t stop to find out why. Sorry people, I’m not paying double.
There is a free car park as you enter the area but it’s a distance away 10-20min walk/amble. There is a bit of a play area for kids over the road from this car park. (Helix Park, 10 min walk in the opposite direction).
This attraction is well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Dave Holland — Google review
It was my dream to visit this place since watching Great Canal Journeys with Timothy West and Prunella Scales. Lovely place and no disappointing at all. A lot of area for walking, cycling and playing. I wish I could live nearby to admire the sculptures in all seasons and times of day.
A A — Google review
Hi guys,
I really loved the area and structured.
Car park a decent size ,Payable on entry .
Car park has toilet facilities including disabled and baby change.
More toilet facilities in the main building which has a cafe and gift shop.
Also outdoor vendors having a choice of food , coffee and ice cream.
Next to a canal with no barriers so parents be aware of little ones!.
Pictures attached.
Regards to you all.
Richard Wilkinson — Google review
Simply put a absolute marvel and must do on you visit list around Falkirk. Great visitor centre and lovely staff. Loads of spaces picnic tables. Plenty of photo opportunities. What a wonderful story of vision to reality. Parking practical and costs 2 pounds with only cashless payment option. Toilets available at parking and reduced mobility parking for free, but go past the red barrier and you can park next to the visitors centre. Dog friendly also and the attraction lights up a Sunset.
David Hemming — Google review
Wow! These sculptures are truly amazing, the size of them cannot be appreciated until you are actually stood near them.
We stayed until dark so we could see them lit up, just so beautiful.
Parking is free in one carparks if you are prepared to walk about a quarter of a mile.
Well worth a visit.
martin Claridge — Google review
Really cool! Food trucks are a nice addition, got a hot chocolate from one with enough cream on it to feed a giant metal horse. Amenities were very well staffed and the surrounding area catered really well to families. No issues parking, entry of spaces and the parking attendants were very helpful.
Alex Sewell — Google review
Great place to visit for both old and young. Car park available but you have to pay. Toilets in car park, nice walk to see the kelpies. Gift shop and cafe on site with outdoor vendors as well. Nice walk along the canal to the lake, which has a kids playground and cafe serving sandwiches and drinks.
Sarah Mitchell — Google review
The family at AtlasAdventured highly recommends visiting here!
Stunning works of art! We saw them from the freeway and decided to get closer. As you get close you lose sight of them and we were like “how?! They’re so big!” We turned into Helix Park, which has plenty of walking and biking trails, playgrounds, and cool sculptures throughout. The grounds are very well kept. There are two different parking lots, one closer to the park, and one close to the statues. Once you park, it is a little bit of a walk (an easy walk) to the statues, maybe 5 minutes. How awesome that you can walk right up to them! Plenty of photo opportunities from every angle. There is also a visitor center which includes a cute gift shop, restrooms, and cafe. They do offer tours of the statues, which allows you to see the inside of them! Our daughter loved being able to run all around and couldn’t get over the size of the Kelpies. If you are ever in the area, I highly recommend planning a visit here. It's a whole day of fun, for free! And it’s beautiful.
Atlas Adventured — Google review
Finally! We were able to see the famous "The Kelpies" 🥰 it wasn't a good weather but neither bad as well. Still, we had fun and enjoyed the rest of the day. We went here on purpose, no tours whatsoever. Google is the key! Must visit! Too bad we couldn't stay overnight to see it's beauty in the dark. Great place!
Wedalyn Grace Dangan — Google review
An amazing sculpture to go and see. It’s just off of the motorway (M9) so is easy to access. There is a small car park for the Helix which is free to park in so I recommend parking there and walking up if you are able to. If not there is a car park located just a 5 minute walk away from the sculptures but it does cost.
You can also walk it along the canal to the Falkirk Wheel which is about a 2hr walk.
There is a shop to buy souvenirs, a cafe and toilets available at the horses.
Jemma — Google review
These are awesome DUKE (facing down) and Baron (looking away) are HUGE to see up close wish I had seen them on a better day or all lit up at night but was nice to stop and see them. There's a wee visitor centre with cafe and toilets on site.
Emma Brown — Google review
4.7
(28240)
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4.5
(7543)
Visitor Centre, The Helix, Grangemouth, Falkirk FK2 7ZT, United Kingdom
Five Sisters Zoo, located near West Calder, is a beloved local attraction offering an up-close experience with a diverse range of animals including lions, bears, lemurs, monkeys, reptiles, reindeer, birds, wallabies, wolves and snow leopards. The zoo also features a play park and handling sessions for visitors of all ages.
Haven’t been here for about 4 years & I can’t believe how much bigger it has become! We went on Easter Monday weather was nice & dry so the perfect day for a walk round the zoo! Loved to see the new cheetah’s such beautiful animals! Did not manage to see the snow or the clouded leopards so will have to go back for another visit! We also went for lunch in the leaping lemurs cafe which was tasty & didn’t take a long time from ordering until you got your food! Overall a great day out for any age
Epic Gamer — Google review
Our family had a lovely day out here lots of animals to see very good information and lots of Space. Very reasonable Prices we are a family of 6. Its February so there was no Bears,Lions or Tigers to see wondering if its due to the winter months. We will come back when its warmer to see. Kids loved walking around, after we had been to the gift shop we popped into the soft play, gave my review of 4 Stars as you had to Pay for That separately. Cafe in there is very basic. Staff on the grounds were polite. So overall It was a good wee day out.
Alison Fin — Google review
Absolutely wonderful zoo. I've always loved coming here especially as a photographer. The animals are always so well looked after and have plenty of enrichment and space in their enclosures and the staff are always so helpful and friendly! I couldn't ask for a better zoo to visit!
Ainslie Wright — Google review
Had an amazing time at the zoo, with a great variety of animals to see. Not too busy so lots of opportunity to spend time with all my favourites. A good variety of catering options, lots of toilets, and plenty to see. We had a lemur experience, and it was so much fun and our keeper Steve was clearly passionate about the animals and gave lots of knowledge about the Lemurs. I would love to do more experiences here - I hope they introduce more in the Peak season!
Zoe Close — Google review
Five Sisters Zoo was fantastic. My husband and I didn't even know it existed until we had Googled for zoos near us, granted it was a two and a half hour drive away, but it was so worth it.
There's so much to see, and the animals are so clearly taken care of. The staff were so helpful and friendly, especially the lady who carried out the lemur feeding experience with us.
10/10. Excellent day out with loads to enjoy.
The one thing I would advise, though, is to mind the geese in the bird walk-through as they're quite feisty and one of them likes to charge at you!
Chloe Clements — Google review
The whole day was AMAZING! The staff were friendly, informative and cheery! I paid extra for the Lemur Feeding Experience which was absolutely wonderful and I would do it again and again!! The staff really care about the animals and their welfare. It is lovely to see happy animals that do not look stressed or scared. I paid extra for the evening Photography Experience with the carnivores, including the bears, snow leopard, clouded leopard, lions and cheetahs! Amazing experience and the staff doing the tour were outstanding (I think it was Gary and Emma). We also had a volunteer and some of the family on the tour with us, who were all again friendly, approachable and accommodating. The buffet and tea and coffee which was included with the experience was lovely too. Best money I've spent on myself! I interacted with the staff at the entrance, gift shop and cafe which went above and beyond with some help I needed before the Photography experience, which actually made my night possible. This is a place I would visit again and again. I was able to take amazing photos and would recommend anyone to visit, which I have done already when telling friends and those close to me.
Cherisse Docherty — Google review
A modest but expanding zoo buried away in West Calder. Not the easiest to get to and car parking arrangements not ideal but expanding as the zoo grows. A good range of animals nicely laid out in large enclosures but all quite close together, ideal for small kids to explore safely on foot even when busy. Lots of good educational information including informative talks from staff throughout the day. Kids play area and some small vans to grab food but recommend bringing packed lunches. Zoo is actively involved in conservation, taking rescued animals such as the new bear, and supporting other efforts like beaver rewinding in Scotland. Reasonable value for money, quite expensive but keen to support the growth and expansion of this amenity. Will be back.
Martin Hurst — Google review
Had a great day here,would rather spend time here than any other zoo....
We chose to feed the lemurs and that was a brilliant experience for me and my son.we wanted to get one in our bag but the keeper spotted us!!next time...
It's great to support this wee gem of a zoo in any way you can,please visit as soon as you can for an amazing day!!!
Gem Williams — Google review
Amazing place , we have visited this zoo at multiple occasions,and kids are always excited every time. Big collection of unique animals , with our Favourite lemurs and red panda 🐼🐻. Reptali lovers will find a lot of them as well big and small. Restaurant on site sell fries 🍟 hot dogs ,and soft drinks ....ice 🍦 creams as well of course. Souvenirs shop allow your kids to gram some animals gadgets on the go. Great place highly recommend. 🐒 🐒 🐒
tony montana — Google review
Very nice place for the visitors but also for the animals. You can enjoy them and share some memorable hours with friends. The Christmas atmosphere was amazing!
Tsvetelina Tsvetkova — Google review
Fantastic zoo, perfect for family day out. Huge space, and love how they take care of the animals many of which rescued. Loved that you could read the stories about the rescued bears and what difference the zoo makes for them and all the animals. Will definitely go back and will be recommending to everyone. So much better than Edinburgh zoo.
Veronika McCann — Google review
My partner took me here yesterday for my birthday, we had a great day. It was quiet & peaceful being a Friday late morning. Will need to come back during the summer. Great wee day out.
Stephanie Dykes — Google review
Well this place is nothing short of a hidden gem. What a fabulous little zoo with far more animals than I can remember. Located a stones throw from a housing estate, this place has it all from soft furries to friendly donkeys to snakes and crocodiles. Four legs, two legs no legs, wings, fangs... all sorts. It is a bit tired looking so don't forget to donate if you visit. A whole day can be spent here without any real effort. Take lunch with you or buy it in the zoo. If you have young children, my recommendation would be to head to the soft play located in a separate building. It has a lovely cafe with reasonably priced delicious food. Go there first, have your lunch then you can take your time going round the zoo. There are talks at certain times which are posted around the zoo. Some animals have volunteers stationed there too answer questions. Honestly is a great day out for a lot less than some of the other more main stream animal parks.
Stephen Corbett — Google review
It was very nice to relive my childhood memories of going to the zoo. It is a welcoming, beautiful and clean place. Many beautiful animals and many of them also sleepy, we were able to look at them with their little treats and interact with the birds. It is worth visiting especially by children.
isabela muntean — Google review
Good to see large enclosure for bears and big cats. All exhibits close to each other which reduces walking. Only downside was lack of food/drink availability. Gift shop fridge almost empty of cols drinks and no water , only food place was burger van which was 40 mins wait time. Staff didn't seam very experienced, were cooking one order at a time, cooked chips lying in open cartons for 10mins while burgers cooked so chips were cold and very small portion for price. Take a packed lunch.
christine broadley — Google review
What an amazing zoo. Surprised to see so many animals out and about on such a chilly day. Really enjoyed seeing them all but particular highlights included the fruit bats, the playful otters, the talking parrots, the cheeky cheetahs and the wolves which were just on the other side of the fence. Great close up view. Plenty of parking either in the large car park directly beside the zoo building or in the overflow car park across the road. Snack van inside park serving hot drinks and snacks. Chips not gluten free but the ones in the cafe at the main entrance are. Disabled access. A brilliant day out.
Dorothy Warren — Google review
Nice place for family visit 😊 helpful staff. All animals visible not in hideout. The only downside was that there wasn't big enough food choices no vegan option at all. But from the other hand park have quite few seats where you can enjoy food which you brought with you. Definitely worth to come and see. I will definitely return.
trickster cookie — Google review
Main attraction the Cheetah is under veterinary care. Huge in closure with nothing, no snow leopard. Missed the lions but signs didn't make sense. Anyway my daughter liked her time there, but I'll not be back. Need the glass cleaned, difficult seeing what's inside. Pretty much around the same price as Blair Drummond. They offered so much more value for money
Brian Dougan — Google review
Our 2nd time at the illuminations and what a joy it was. We attended last night and there was 4 of us. It was extremely cold but walking round and seeing the animals, stopping for lovely food and drinks along the way and the wee one enjoying the rides and helter skelter. We had a 6.30pm time slot and we left at 8.45pm. The atmosphere was fab. We seen lizards, snakes monkeys, owls, penguins, otters, reindeer, parrots, snow leopards to name a few. The staff were so friendly and helpful. The illuminations were amazing. Really enjoyed all the different types light up displays and discovering more on our way around. It took 40 mins from Coatbridge to get there and is well signposted although Google maps did an excellent job getting us there.
We will definitely be back for a day time visit. Would thoroughly recommend. There's a gift shop and they sell real Christmas trees as well.
Claire Robertson — Google review
Visited today with our 5 and 2 year old, have been before a few times. The zoo was packed with lovely animals and attractions so they didn't get bored walking around too long between enclosures. Everything is also easily viewable for small kids too so they aren't left out or your arms are breaking lifting them up all the time! The zoo is lovely and clean and the staff were friendly and welcoming and there were lots of educational boards around the zoo explaining how they care for the animals and where they came from. We loved seeing the cheetah and the bear having a lovely swim in the pond, and visiting the penguins and reptile house. Thankyou Five sisters for a lovely family day out.
Sarah Thomson — Google review
Great zoo, you can tell that the animals are all truly cared for. Large enclosures for the animals, which look very well kept. Lots of other activities and things for families to do, as well as a cafe to get a bite to eat. Definitely worth a visit!
Owen Glasby — Google review
SUPER PLACE!
A great range of animals housed in well thought out exibit areas. Lots of information to hand, particularly in respect of the commendable conservation work taking place.
Very child-friendly with play areas, good sized and reasonable priced restaurant, friendly staff, and free parking. I was particularly impressed with how easy and inexpensive the zoo has made it for the public to play their part by sponsoring the animals. Terrific day out - well worth a visit. Well done 5 Sisters Zoo and staff.
Scenic garden & arboreta, once belonging to an estate, with a restored pond, visitor centre & cafe.
Lovely garden with some interesting plants and lovely views down to the house. A good portion of the paths would be accessible in a wheelchair or buggy but they are steep so you would need strong arms! The staff were friendly and helpful and have plenty of info available about different routes you can take round the garden. The cafe was really good and worth a stop off for a scone if you are visiting.
louisa newby — Google review
This Botanic Garden has a magnificent collection of trees, many in completely natural surroundings so that you can feel the sensation of walking in a forest in North America. There are also beautiful wild orchids as well as other flowers at different times of the year. The garden is perfectly maintained with good paths, some of them steep, informative signs and many wooden benches where you can sit and immerse yourself in the forest.
The staff are very friendly, helpful and informative. The site map clear and easy to follow. The service in the café excellent and the mushroom and celery homemade soup delicious. This is a family friendly place that offers an ideal opportunity to help youngsters appreciate nature and it’s vital importance to life.
R. C. W. — Google review
Beautiful garden! Lot's of different unusual trees and plants. If you like snowdrops - this is a perfect place to enjoy them, they have plenty! There are many different rhododendrons, it must be lovely when they all are in blossom. The cafe is nice too.
Anna Plotkina — Google review
Lovely botanical gardens. Plenty of walks, depending on what time you go I the year will depend on what is out and in bloom. We visited mid May and were greeted with lots of stunning Rhododendrons! It's calm and quiet and the cafe is lovely too. The entry price is a little higher than I expected but it is worth the price I'm sure in the height of summer!
Emma Matthews — Google review
A great garden to explore, beautiful Rhododendrons, 80 species altogether. Absolutely stunning trees and great staff. Fantastic scones in the coffee shop.
Stephen Burchett — Google review
One of four gardens managed by the Royal Botanical Gardens in Edinburgh. This one specialises in trees and has some of Scotland’s oldest and largest. Easily walkable in a hillside setting, a must visit if you like big trees and woodland walks. The old estate house and chapel are privately owned and not open to the public. The modern tea room is excellent.
A I — Google review
What a lovely place. Great coffee and cake. Nice helpful cheery staff. The gardens were amazing so much to do and see for all ages. So much wildlife and a great price to get in
anita seals — Google review
Beautiful Gardens well maintained footpaths. Even for me on crutches. Lots of places to sit and relax and enjoy the views. really nice cafe good choice of food. Well worth a visit
Graham Innes — Google review
A stunning Botanical Gardens just outside of Peebles. A huge variety of trees and other flora. Darwyck boasts some unique and rare Lichens accounting for around quarter of all lichens found in Europe. It has a rich history with ties to North America of which you can find out more during your time at the gardens. There is some opportunity to see wildlife depending on the time of year.
Accessibility is fairly easy once at the Gardens, there is a tearoom, shop and museum with some good facilities. The Gardens have various pathways all mapped out so it's easy to navigate but it's mostly up or down hill.
Staff were very friendly and the tickets were fairly cheap with concession options.
Highly recommend to visit, we travelled from Edinburgh by car, and a lovely day out had by all our party.
Wil “wilinamerica” Wilson — Google review
We visited on the Wednesday, but the Garden was closed due to high winds. Enjoyed the cafe and shop and revisited Thursday. Well worth returning. Giant conifers, streams and interesting nooks and crannies with some spectacular views make for a great wander. Lots of uphill walking means you should plan to take your time.
James Toal — Google review
Lovely location, grounds, visitor centre and the trees and other plants are beautiful. Carpets of snowdrops were delightful. Never seen so much lichen on trees. Stilton and Broccoli soup was tasty and the cheese and chive and fruit and spice scones were really good. Would definitely go back at other times of the year to see all the seasonal changes
Georgina Peacock — Google review
Stunning Gardens, beautiful shop, good cafe. The grounds are so well maintained and laid out, routes for disabled people, lots of benches and seats to sit and enjoy the views. If your near Peebles it's a must.
Stuart Mcginlay — Google review
Visited the gardens and cafe for Mother’s Day; and our mum had a lovely day. Lots of walks around the garden - and a great, tasty lunch in the cafe. The staff were friendly and helpful, despite the busyness.
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The guided themed walks are interesting, and informative. The majority of the garden is fairly accessible, but the walk up to the viewpoint is more challenging. Still, it’s an excuse to sit on one of the many benches, and admire the wider views, whilst waiting for others! 🥰
There’s a good amount of ever green and bulb coverage, for colour; and I imagine the gardens will be aburst with the new buds in the next few weeks. 🌼 💐 🌲
We’ll be back again in a few months, to see the garden in different foliage!
Jenny Ansett — Google review
Dawyck Botanic Garden are Beautiful ancient with Gaint Cedars trees. With Beautiful scenery everywhere you look and all you can hear the birds singing.
There is excellent restaurant and very nice gift shop
annacassarparnis@gmail.com annamark — Google review
The Forth Road Bridge, located in Fife, is a key transportation link connecting Rosyth by both road and rail. It forms part of a trio of impressive civil engineering structures including the Queensferry Crossing and the Forth Rail Bridge. These bridges are not only vital for transportation but also serve as popular tourist attractions due to their architectural significance. The iconic Forth Rail Bridge, in particular, is often photographed and admired by visitors for its stunning design.
Beautiful, peaceful island. Make sure you prebook before you go. Luckily we arrived at the right time where some people hadn't turned up so we got to take their spaces on the boat. Lots of midges as to be expected by water so make sure you have some insect repellent. The boats leave every 45minutes which is basically enough to enjoy a thorough look round of the castle.
Stephanie May — Google review
A very peaceful & tranquil island; just you, the castle ruins & birds. It's a short boat ride (shuttle service) away from the mainland & you can stay as long as you like. Absolutely stunning although not a lot of cover & it was swelteringly hot when we went in June 2023!
Claire Dragon — Google review
What more do you need to visit this castle....it has a lovely 10 min boat ride to the island where you get to view the surrounding landscape. Once on the island the castle is steeped in history and stories....you can really imagine what it was like there in the past. Its one of a few castles that you can explore freely from bottom to top and admire every detail. The views to mainland and the hills in the distance are also worth a look and space in your camera roll.
Alicia R — Google review
Been looking forward to visiting Loch Leven Castle for a long time and it was worth the wait. A boat trip across the loch in a wee motor boat passing hundreds of swans on the way. The castle itself is quite small and is now a ruin. It's full of history. There are dark staircases and rooms to explore with a torch.
Lots of picnic tables scattered around the grounds. We enjoyed sitting in the sun as we waited for the boat back to shore. A perfect place to take visitors on a sunny day . You need to book online the night before as the boat only holds twelve people at a time.
There are toilets but there is no other running water on the island so take drinks with you.
A great day out and friendly knowledgeable staff.
Sally Mair — Google review
A nice wee castle on a wee island in Loch Leven. There isn't all that much to see, really, but if you find the Scottish history interesting, I definitely think it'll be worth it. The price includes the 10 minutes boat trip to get there.
On the island there are plenty of tables with benches to enjoy a picnic (weather permitting, obviously) both outside and inside the castle.
Unfortunately you can't get to the top level in the tower, though. That would have given you some great views over the loch.
There are also toilets and baby changing facilities near the castle. I don't believe there are running water, though.
The only minus I can give the whole experience is the lack of toilets at the pier where you get the boat out to the castle. There is a restaurant, but they only allow patrons to use it, so you need to find the public toilet in the nearby park. These toilets costs 20p to use, and the missus said they were definitely not clean.
Michael D?nhardt — Google review
Beautiful little spot. Lovely staff. Great small castle with some interesting features. Toilets on the island. Boats back every 45 mins. So we stayed for an hour. Ideally, I’d take a picnic… lots of picnic tables, lots of photo opps too
Robert Donnan — Google review
An incredibly good value experience! My young children loved the boat ride and climbing up and down to explore the different sections of the castle. There are some gorgeous views from the island/along the drive to the loch and the castle has an interesting history. Toilets on the island were also very clean. Make sure you book in advance on the website as the boat only holds 12 people and runs every 45 mins.
Heather — Google review
Two boat trips and a historic Castle for a tenner, cant go wrong!! Great cheap day out. Although you only need about an hour you are not rushed to return on the next boat.
Paul — Google review
We love this castle it's a perfect place for day out, kids can explore this beautiful island and discover history of loch Leven castle. Highly recommended we had a great day😁
andzelina drzewiecka — Google review
This is a really lovely little castle. It is great that you can get in and about it and it is not closed off due to high level masonry issues. Lots of benches if you fancy a wee picnic too.
Jade Dobson — Google review
Given the history of the place, this is a lovely little island and castle ruins to visit. Best to book ahead online to guarantee tickets for the boat ride.
Phil Tanis — Google review
What a beautiful place. Worth the £10 ticket, especially if you go on a sunny day, preferably during the week when you might get the island to yourself (like we did). Idyllic and interesting, absolutely recommend making the trip .
The Black Watch Castle and Museum is a five-star visitor attraction that tells the incredible story of the Black Watch regiment, from its formation in 1739 to the amalgamation of the Regiment in 2006. This magnificent museum features beautiful gardens and stunning architecture, as well as interactive displays that allow you to explore the many pivotal roles this regiment has played in military history.
Excellent place to visit and received a warm welcome from the lady at the reception when we first arrived. Great displays and a lovely gift shop. The grounds are gorgeous and have seating areas for visitors to have their refreshments. Their is a lift and toilets on site.
D B — Google review
The Black Watch museum is really an all in one experience. You have the museum to visit then the wonderful restaurant to enjoy. I visited on a Tuesday and it was pretty busy I paid £10 for the museum which is a day ticket so you can do the tour again the same day. The lady on duty advised me to book a table at the restaurant before I commenced my tour, that proved very good advice.
The museum is terrific I went round twice to try and take in the information and history associated with the Black Watch.
After my double tour I then enjoyed a lovely meal at the restaurant.
If you like history you will love this place it is brilliant. I also found the staff very welcoming and helpful.
Allan MacIver — Google review
Nice castle. Very good organised one-way system. A lot of useful information. There is also an opportunity to have a nice coffee or lunch.
Marcela Lackov? — Google review
Interesting place to visit to discover the history of one of the oldest Scottish Regiments. Even more interesting for us as my wife's Grandfather served in the Black Watch. Kids enjoyed hunting for the lego men hidden around the museum to spell out a word, for which they won a museum badge each. Nice little gift shop & cafe on site with a small play area for the kids, just outside.
Andrew Erlebach — Google review
Such a rich history! Take the guided tour it’s worth it. A family member was with the Black Watch in WWII , they took us to the archives upstairs to find personal references of commissioned ranks! A must to see if you are into history.
Cameron Fairweather — Google review
Quite nice place, we did not go inside the museum because of lack of time. But inside is small shop with souvenirs and small canteen where you can have lunch, snack or coffee. Nice gardens around. Good place to stop on way from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Cegr Cegr — Google review
Popped in for a quick bite and saw this amazing sculpture just outside the castle entrance. It's called The Hauntings. Very impressive. Food in the bistro was lovely good service and very clean. Very friendly staff.
Sarah Mitchell — Google review
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Hay Street The Black Watch Castle & Museum, Perth, PH1 5HR, United Kingdom