Who else is delighted that the days are getting longer with a bit more light?
It certainly makes it a lot easier to get out and about for fresh air and a dash of sunshine. With half term just around the corner, we’ve put together some suggestions for attractions to visit when the weather isn’t entirely on your side.
All of these attractions offer free entry for a child when you show a Kids for a Quid ticket too.
A day out with a big bang
Visiting a Science Centre is a brilliant way to have an educational and fun day out. Seeing science in action with thrilling live science shows, and getting to play with hands-on exhibits, makes learning so much more appealing.
Aberdeen Science Centre has got some great special events running during half term from 13 - 19 February.
The Robots are arriving for a special week of fun in 'The Magic of Robots' where you'll be able to try your hand at programming. Or if the mesmerising world of mind-boggling magic is more your thing, then 'The Science of Magic' will have the most inquisitive brain entertained.
Dundee Science Centre is another great choice for a family day out. The exhibits are always changing so even if you’ve visited before, it may be time for another visit.
Both science centres are really easy to get to by train, with both a ten-minute walk from the railway station.
A splashing day out
While the weather may not have you craving more water, our aquarium attractions make a wet or cold day a whole lot more fun. North Queensferry’s, Deep Sea World , has the UK’s longest underwater viewing tunnel and is a brilliant way to come face to face with lots of creatures from the deep. Lots of different events and talks take place throughout the day – see the seals getting fed, learn about the different animals and get hands on with some creepy crawlies.
Over on the west coast, Loch Lomond Sea Life Aquarium , provides a great insight into life in our waters. Get up close with over 1,500 creatures and get ready to go ‘aww’ over the playful family of otters.
Both attractions are really close to train stations, with Deep Sea World nestled right under the Forth Rail Bridge, a ten-minute walk from North Queensferry station.
You’ll find Loch Lomond Sea Life Aquarium a ten-minute walk from Balloch train station.
Kick away the winter blues
If any members of the family are football mad, then The Hampden Experience and Scottish Football Museum is sure to be a hit. Did you know that it’s home to the biggest collection of national football memorabilia in the world? Entry to the museum also includes a tour of the ground. The little ones can live out their football dreams with a visit to the changing rooms before a walk down the tunnel to the pitch. When you’re at a football museum, you’ve got to kick a ball so get your scoring ability measured with a shot on goal at the Hotshots gallery. A great attraction for tiring the little ones out!
The Museum is really easy to reach by train - hop off at Mount Florida and take a ten-minute walk to Hampden.
Take the monkeys to the zoo
When the weather is erring on the side of dry, Edinburgh Zoo is a great choice for somewhere the whole family will enjoy and where you’re guaranteed to tire the kids out. As well as having a huge variety of animals to look at there are some great play places too to burn off any extra energy. Don’t forget to catch the world-famous penguin parade every day at 14:15.
To get to the zoo, take the train to Haymarket or Waverley and hop on the 12, 26 or 31 bus.
A Kids for a Quid ticket = free entry for one child
To reach all of these great attractions, kids can travel on the train for just £1 return. Simply buy an adult ticket or show your Season Ticket or Flexipass and you can purchase Kids for a Quid tickets for up to four children. You then just need to show the Kids for a Quid ticket at the attraction when you purchase a full price adult ticket to get a child in for free.
Have a great day out!