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

© Steve Brown / DC ThomsonClaire Warrender - Easter Grotto at Scottish Deer Farm.
Claire Warrender - Easter Grotto at Scottish Deer Farm.

As the first signs of spring emerge, it’s time to make the most of the upcoming Easter holidays and set-aside time to relax and recharge.

From egg hunts to unicorns, there are many ways to celebrate with a variety of attractions across Scotland marking the occasion with special events.

Lambathon

Organised by Go Rural, Lambathon sees farms deliver tours via Facebook shining a spotlight on lambing season.

As well as the unique opportunity to see adorable lambs, viewers get to meet the friendly faces behind each farm, learning more about day-to-day activities.

Get up close and personal with lovable lambs, cute coos and more on a farm tour for the ultimate rural experience.

Bellevue Farm, Arran

Head across the water to a family-run farm located near Blackwaterfoot on the Isle of Arran.

Families can enjoy the sights and sounds of a working farm, including collecting the morning eggs, feeding the alpacas and learning about the Arran food story whilst providing spectacular views over the Kilbrannan Sound to the Kintyre Peninsula.

For 2 adults and 2 children under 14, farm tours cost £55 & farm experiences cost £25. Visit bellevue-arran.co.uk

The Chocolatarium, Edinburgh

In the spirit of Easter, discover how chocolate is made, from tree to bar, on this 90-minute tour offering a plethora of tastings along the way.

This hands-on tour includes the chance to see and touch the fruit of the chocolate tree and the opportunity to make your own chocolate bar.

Adults £19.50, children £12. Go to chocolatarium.co.uk

Aden Country Park, Mintlaw

Visitors can unleash their creative side within the tranquillity of Aden Country Park with Easter craft classes.

Attendees take part in egg painting, decorating eggs with natural resources and creating Spring nature nests.

Only children require a ticket for this event, £3.72. Head to visitabdn.com

Mount Stuart House, Isle of Bute

For those looking for a history infused day out, the stunning 19th Century country manor is surrounded by 300 acres of grounds. Visit mountstuart.com

Stirling Castle

Celebrate Scotland’s national animal, with a real-life visit from not one but two unicorns.

Youngsters can discover more about these mythical beasts with a variety of family friendly activities taking place around the castle. Book tickets to Stirling Castle for storytelling sessions, a lesson in unicorn history and a unicorn duck hunt.

Attendees can download a range of unicorn-themed activities. April 9-10. Visit stirlingcastle.scot

Camera Obscura, Edinburgh

The capital’s oldest purpose-built visitor attraction is a fantastic, family-friendly option.

There are more than 100 interactive, hands-on exhibits, including optical illusions, a mirror maze and a vortex tunnel. From the rooftop terrace families can enjoy 360-degree views of Edinburgh. Visit camera-obscura.co.uk

Easter egg trails

With Easter events at 22 National Trust properties, there’s lots of family fun to be enjoyed, from Brodie Castle in the Highlands to Culzean Castle in Ayrshire and from Greenbank Garden in Glasgow to Newhailes in Musselburgh.

Visitors follow trails, collect clues, solve the puzzle and win chocolatey rewards all whilst exploring and learning more about each property. £4 per trail. April 15-18.

Traquair House, Scottish Borders

The Easter Eggstravaganza is back for a marvellous day of egg hunting, egg painting and spring activities.

There will be 6,000 mini eggs to be found during hunts in the largest hedged maze in Scotland. April 17. Visit traquair.co.uk

Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire

The castle offers over 65 activities, including axe throwing, canoeing, coasteering, kayaking, yoga, forest bathing and a digital detox day.

From £399.50 per person, per night. Kids go free.

Skeabost Hotel, Skye

The north-east of Skye is Europe’s Dinosaur Coast with footprints visible on the rocks, and there’s a dinosaur museum and the whole island is a treasure trove of history and legends. Up to two under-15s stay free in the same room as an adult. Call (01470) 373737 to book or email reservations@sonascollection.com. Offer available April 15-18.


For more information and inspiration about Easter breaks and fun activities the whole family will enjoy in Scotland, check out visitscotland.com