Outdoor Activities For Children
Moray and the Highlands have an abundance of attractions and things to do for children and families – all within easy reach of Tullochwood. For a full listing of things to do in the area, visit www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk
Animals & Nature
Brodies Hill outdoor play centre is all about “mud and water” and as we all know, children love to get messy ! Its a secure, natural play area within a local family farm for children to explore and learn. A chance for them to engage in unstructured activities where natural elements feature, whilst under their parents’ supervision. Animals are central to the experience and children will get the chance to have hands on experience with smaller species and get close to some farm animals.
The Highland Wildlife Park lets you experience Scottish wildlife, as well as internationally endangered animals of mountains and tundra, in a spectacular setting close to Kingussie. Drive around the main reserve in your own car and then investigate the walk-round area by foot. www.highlandwildlifepark.org – 01540 651270
The Dolphin & Seal Centre is a small visitor attraction with views of the Kessock Channel, which provides an opportunity to look for dolphins and seals. There is a children’s play corner with quizzes, colouring and dolphin detective activities. Admission is free.www.wdcs.org – 01343 820339
Museums
The Nairn Museum particularly welcomes children, providing a range of pick-up-and-touch exhibits and a safe play area. It offers visitors and locals alike a fascinating insight into the life and times of the town and surrounding area over the centuries. www.nairnmuseum.co.uk – 01667 456791
Outdoor Activities
Treasure Trails are a different way to explore somewhere new whilst solving a treasure hunt. An easy to follow route will take you to the most interesting and beautiful sights and along the way you must answer the clues to be able to solve the mystery. Locally there is a trail in Elgin, Grantown-on-Spey and Forres. Each Trail is roughly 2 miles long and should take about 1½ to 2 hours to complete. Packs can be bought online for just £5 at Treasure Trails.
Rothiemurchus is the most fabulous place, there’s so much to see and do! Whether you like a quiet ramble through the beautiful forest; around the stunning lochs, simply enjoying the fresh air and marvelling at the stunning scenery. Or whether something more exhilarating and energetic is more your thing, then you’ll love our fantastic array of activities. The choice is yours, you can do as much or as little as you like, all you need is the time and energy to do it all! Find out more – 01479 812345
Quad biking
Highland Quads – cater for junior (8 yrs & up) and senior riders of all abilities and provide comprehensive instruction on the safe operation of the quads before you begin your ride. www.eastgrange.co.uk/quads1.htm – 01343 850111
Swimming
The Moray Leisure Centre in Elgin has excellent swimming facilities for both the serious and the fun swimmer. It also has a health & wellness suite, ice rink, a relaxation suite with sauna, steam room and spa. Creche facilities, soft play centre, and cafe. If you are looking for a family day out, this would be a great idea. www.mlc-elgin.co.uk – 01343 550033
Theme Parks
The Landmark Forest Theme Park at Carrbridge, is much more than just a day out! Various forest rides for all the family plus a restaurant and shop. www.landmarkpark.co.uk – 0800 7313446
Trains & Boats
The Cairngorm Mountain Funicular Railway, near Aviemore, transports visitors to the Ptarmigan Top Station, nestled just below the summit of Cairn Gorm. A fabulous way to see the mountains and enjoy a hot chocolate at the top after the visitor centre and shop. www.cairngormmountain.co.uk – 01479 861261
Jacobite Cruises offer a variety of trips between 1 and 6 hours long. Whichever you choose it’s a superb way to experience the magnificence of the loch and its stunning attractions – and of course you can keep your eye out for Nessie! Children’s prices and family tickets are available on several cruises. www.jacobite.co.uk – 01463 233999
The Strathspey Railway, near Aviemore, relives the sights and sounds of the steam age – an enjoyable day out for any age. www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk – 01479 810725