Days out: Cracking spots for family fun this Easter

Spring has definitely sprung and it’s the perfect time of year to get the whole family together to experience the sights, smells and sounds of the season.

With Easter just around the corner, Visit Scotland brings you the top spots to roll your eggs….

Arthur’s Seat

Probably one of the country’s most famous egg-rolling locations. Every year, families from across the capital converge on Holyrood Park to climb the ancient volcano as part of their Easter Sunday tradition. On a clear day the views from the top are breathtaking and for those with an interest in history there is even a well-preserved fort and a 15th Century medieval chapel to discover.

King’s Knot

If you want an epic backdrop for your egg roll then head to the King’s Knot in Stirling. In the shadow of Stirling Castle, the King’s Knot is a grassy parkland which features a knot-shaped earthwork said to resemble a cup and saucer.

Once the playground of kings, it is now a great spot for a picnic. Further up the road, the larger Kings Park, which was a royal hunting ground, is great for a walk, has open playing fields, tennis courts, outdoor gym equipment and a fantastic play park.

Crathes Castle

Crathes Castle near Banchory offers one of the best egg rolling hills in the north-east, long green slopes can be found throughout the castle grounds, where visitors can wander through the historic walled garden and admire the iconic yew hedges. Be in with the chance to spot a variety of wildlife along any of the six waymarked trails, including roe deer, red squirrels, woodpeckers, buzzards and herons. And when the festivities end, visitors can grab a quick bite to eat from the cafe.

Duthie Park

Duthie Park is located to the south of Aberdeen city centre. Donated by a Miss Duthie in 1880, Duthie Park is Scotland’s third most visited gardens, famous for its wide range of exotic plants, family play areas, boating ponds, sports fields and recently restored Victorian design features. The park also features the David Welch Winter Gardens which is one of the largest indoor gardens in Europe. Its small hills make it a great place for little ones to have their first egg-rolling eggs-perience.

Scone Palace

Located in the grounds of Scone Palace lies the historic Moot Hill, once the crowning place of the King of Scots and one of Perthshire’s top picks for rolling Easter eggs. Moot Hill is located right in front of the Palace and is crowned by a tiny chapel. This year’s Easter celebrations include an Easter egg hunt in the maze, a bunny & chick hunt in the State Rooms alongside Easter activity workshops.

Days out: A roundup of the best family activities across Scotland this Easter

Chatelherault Country Park

Built in 1732 as a Hunting Lodge and Summer House for the Dukes of Hamilton, the restored buildings now house a Visitor Centre; the West Lodge comprising of the Banqueting Hall and Duke and Duchess Apartments; Exhibition Gallery and Displays; Gift Shop and Cafe. Outside, visitors can explore 10 miles of walks along the scenic River Avon and through ancient woodland. The banking in the front of the Hunting Lodge is widely regarded as a prime egg rolling spot, particularly after a delightful breakfast with the Easter Bunny in the banqueting room.

Callendar House

Dating back to the 14th Century, Callendar House has played host to many great historical figures over the centuries, including Mary, Queen of Scots, Cromwell and Bonnie Prince Charlie, not to mention countless excited children ready to roll their Easter eggs. The House’s permanent displays are The Story of Callendar House, a history covering the 11th to the 19th Centuries, The Antonine Wall, Rome’s Northern Frontier and Falkirk: Crucible of Revolution 1750-1850, tells how the local area was transformed during the first century of the industrial era. This Easter, enjoy a festive afternoon tea followed by egg design sessions, once egg designs are complete head to the top of the hill and get ready to roll.

Castle Kennedy Gardens

Reopening just in time for the Easter holidays Castle Kennedy Gardens are among the most famous and the most child-friendly in Scotland. Seventy-five acres of spectacularly designed loch-side landscape, create a romantic garden paradise with quite literally something for everyone to enjoy – regardless of age. The Gardens are a hidden treasure in South West Scotland. This Easter solve the riddles around the Gardens and win a delicious chocolate prize.

Floors Castle

Scotland’s largest inhabited Castle and one of the leading visitor attractions in the Scottish Borders. Explore the collection of fine art, porcelain, restored tapestries and grand rooms or enjoy superb views over the River Tweed and the Cheviot Hills. Built by leading architect William Adam in 1721 for the 1st Duke of Roxburghe, the castle has undergone periodic changes to create the dramatic building you see today. Visitors can make the most out of the surrounding castle mound for optimum egg rolling.

Pollok Country Park

Pollok Country Park is Glasgow’s largest park and the only country park within the city. Its extensive woodlands and gardens are home to a vast array of wildlife and offer a great day out for visitors. The park is rich in rural history formerly being part of the Old Pollok Estate and ancestral home to the Maxwell family. The park is also home to the world-famous Burrell Collection which has just reopened following a major refurbishment. After you’ve rolled your eggs, youngsters can follow clues along the Springtime trail, take home an Easter crafting activity and indulge in a chocolatey treat.