Perth Museum
Museums & galleries
You’ll find fascinating museums and galleries across Scotland each of which showcase a range of enticing things, from ancient history to modern events, art, culture, maritime heritage and much more. The majority of museums and galleries in Scotland are free to enter, including a variety in the capital, iconic choices in Glasgow, such as Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum and the Burrell Collection, to the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore, the Dumfries Museum and Camera Obscura, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, and The McManus in Dundee, to name a few.
It wouldn't be a fun day out without a trip to brand new attraction. Perth Museum is a new addition to the city and will open its doors to the public on 30 March. Elsewhere, The Scottish Crannog Centre on Loch Tay is also reopening on 1 April, after suffering a tragic fire in 2021. Both attractions boast a fantastic and educational day out for the whole family!
Learn something new with a day trip to a Scottish museum or gallery
St Magnus Cathedral, Orkney
Free attractions
A fun day out with the family doesn’t have to break the bank. There are a range of attractions, events and experiences in Scotland that are free to visit and enjoy. Scotland is known for its dramatic and historic castles – most of which are free. If you’re a member of National Trust for Scotland, or have the Explorer’s Pass with Historic Environment Scotland, you can explore a range of incredible attractions and sites for free.
Scotland is also home to its fair share of historical landmarks that date back centuries, from St Magnus Cathedral on Orkney and Dunfermline Abbey, to Aberdeen Art Gallery and more. You're also in luck with there being some welcoming events free of charge too.
The World Pipe Band Championships, Glasgow
Events and festivals
Spring is in full swing and with it comes a whole host of interactive, memorable and often toe-tapping events and festivals to get involved in. Whether your jam is Scottish music, arts & culture, or you prefer to get outdoors for a sporting festival, you’ve got all the options here. Rally up the wee ones and head out on an adventurous Easter Egg Hunt. Many parks, gardens and attractions host family-friendly Easter activities during the holidays so you don’t need to worry about keeping the little ones entertained. Journey north for the Orkney Folk Festival, explore Scotland's coasts with the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival in Aberdeenshire, or join in the Kelpies 10th anniversary celebrations too.
Have a budding scientist on your hands? They’ll love the Edinburgh Science Festival that returns from 30 March – 14 April, with an array of hands-on activities to enjoy. Immerse yourself in island life with Mull Music Festival this April with lively music - including folk-rock, traditional Scottish tunes, fiddle, accordion, dance and ceilidh bands.
Calgary Bay, Isola di Mull
Islands
Speaking of Scottish islands, spring is a great time of year to try out a spot of island-hopping. With hundreds of stunning islands off the north and west coasts, each boasting their own unique offerings and characters, you’re spoilt for choice. Head to the Isle of Islay, off Scotland’s ‘whisky coast’, where you can visit nine working distilleries that have all mastered the art of distilling. Mull is home to stunning beaches, bays and coves, Iona boasts a detailed ancient history dating back to 563 AD, Lewis & Harris will transport you back in time, and Arran has a little bit of everything if you’re stuck for where to go.
Scotland boasts a range of transport options and ferry services so you can easily hop your way around these little island gems whilst making lots of new memories with friends and family.
