Easter days out: Roll with it! The most eggcellent family fun days

It’s Easter Sunday, the day it’s acceptable to eat your own body weight in chocolate for breakfast, lunch and dinner. But what do you do in between? Whether you’re looking for a hill to roll eggs or a woodland to walk off all the calories, Visit Scotland suggests spots for a fun-filled Easter family day.

Arthur’s Seat

Families converge on Holyrood Park to climb the ancient volcano as part of their Easter Sunday tradition. On a clear day the views are breathtaking and, for those with an interest in history, there’s a fort and a 15th Century medieval chapel to discover.

King’s Knot

If you want an epic backdrop for your egg roll, head to 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. Further up the road, the larger Kings Park, which was a royal hunting ground, is great for walking but also has open playing fields, tennis courts, outdoor gym equipment and a play park.

Duthie Park

Located to the south of Aberdeen city centre, Duthie Park is famous for its wide range of exotic plants, play areas, boating ponds and sports fields. 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 eggsperience.

Scone Palace

In the grounds of Scone Palace lies 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 crowned by a tiny chapel. This year’s Easter celebrations include an Easter egg hunt in the maze, a bunny and chick hunt in the State Rooms and activity workshops.

Chatelherault

Built in 1732 as a Hunting Lodge and Summer House for the Dukes of Hamilton, the restored buildings house a visitor centre, exhibition gallery, a gift shop and cafe. Visitors can explore 10 miles of walks along the scenic River Avon and through ancient woodland. The banking in 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, The Antonine Wall, Rome’s Northern Frontier and Falkirk: Crucible of Revolution 1750-1850, which tells how the local area was transformed during the first century of the industrial era. Enjoy a festive afternoon tea followed by egg design sessions and, once they are complete, head to the top of the hill and get ready to roll.

Castle Kennedy Gardens

Seventy-five acres of spectacular loch-side landscape, it’s a romantic garden paradise with 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 is one of the leading visitor attractions in the 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 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 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.

P.S. Roll your eggs on the green slopes of Crathes Castle grounds in Banchory, where visitors can wander through the historic walled garden. Spot a variety of wildlife along any of the waymarked trails, including roe deer, red squirrels, woodpeckers, buzzards and herons. At the end of the day, grab a bite to eat at the cafe.