Gardens and country parks for families
Highland cows in Beecraigs Country Park
Edinburgh Botanic Garden © Kenny Lam
Beecraigs Country Park
Royal Botanic Garden
Have a fantastic family trip to one of Edinburgh and the Lothians’ gardens and country parks. From the stunning Royal Botanic Garden to archery and orienteering at Beecraigs Country Park, there are many activities to enjoy in these delightful open spaces.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Explore the sprawling grounds of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for a fantastic free family day out. Discover rare and beautiful plants and trees and keep an eye out for the cheeky resident squirrels scampering around. There are many exciting family events to join in throughout the year from educational bird feeding days to fun art and craft activities.
Beecraigs Country Park
Spend an active day at Beecraigs Country Park near Linlithgow and enjoy many exhilarating activities in the vast 370 hectares (913 acres) park. Take your bikes along and explore the wonderful forest routes in the park and finish your day out in style by trying some of the exciting outdoor activities on offer such as archery, climbing, fishing and even wind surfing.
Almondell & Calderwood Country Park
Take a trip to the spectacular Almondell & Calderwood Country Park near Mid Calder and discover beautiful woodland and riverside walks where you may spot some wonderful wildlife such as herons, foxes and roe deer. After an invigorating walk around the extensive park you can enjoy refreshments in the fantastic visitor centre or you can even make use of the barbeque facilities and cook your own delicious family lunch.
Polkemmet Country Park
Another spectacular outdoor attraction is Polkemmet Country Park near Whitburn, a beautiful former private estate with excellent facilities and activities. Go on a hunt through the park for the impressive artwork The Horn, a giant aluminium sculpture installed in 1997 or have a family golf tournament on Polkemmet’s popular 9-hole course. Soon to open at the park is a fantastic new Scottish Owl Centre, relocating from Campbeltown in Argyll, where you will be able to enjoy exciting bird handling sessions.
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Edinburgh and the Lothians sits on the eastern side of Scotland's central belt, in the heart of the country.
