Purse-friendly family days out

Last updated: Wednesday, 1 May 2019

Did you know that kids can get free entry at great attractions across Scotland when you show your Kids for a Quid rail ticket?

We know that planning a day out with the kids can be stressful and it always seems to add up so quickly. That’s why we’ve teamed up with some great attractions to keep the costs down without scrimping on the quality. Here’s our pick of three of our favourite places to visit:

Camera ObscuraCamera Obscura & World of Illusions

A day out in Edinburgh doesn’t have to cost the earth. And if you don’t fancy venturing far from the railway station there’s plenty to do within walking distance. A very short but slightly steep walk from the station takes you to Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. It doesn’t matter what your age is, this place is loads of fun! Work your way through the floors of hands-on exhibits before finishing your visit on the roof enjoying the views over the city. The actual Camera Obscura is a must too – find out how it works and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the people outside.

The Edinburgh Dungeon and The Scotch Whisky Experience are both close by too and great fun for the older kids.

Closest Station: Edinburgh Waverley

Loch Lomond Sea Life AquariumLoch Lomond SEALIFE Aquarium

Escape the city and take in some of our beautiful Scottish countryside with a trip to Loch Lomond. That’s why travelling by train is such a winner. You can relax and look out at the gorgeous views rather than having to keep your eyes on the road.

Hop on the train to Balloch to get up close with stunning scenery and some creatures from the deep. The Loch Lomond SeaLife Aquarium is home to the largest collection of sharks in Scotland… so you might not want to get too close! If cute is more your thing, say hi to the aquarium’s family of otters. An added bonus is that the aquarium is right on the edge of Loch Lomond Shores so there are some great picnic spots around too.

Closest station: Balloch

Discovery Point & RRS DiscoveryDiscovery Point & RSS Discovery

If you’ve not had a chance to see the stunning transformation of Dundee’s waterfront then we’d highly recommend a visit. Delve into a little history while you’re there by stepping aboard Captain Scott’s ship ‘Discovery’. Fascinating for all ages, the tour takes you around every area of the ship to find out how the crew survived being trapped in the Antarctic for two years. After seeing the size of the bunks, we don’t think we’d like to be stuck for two days, let alone two years!

Nearest station: Dundee

To get your free child entry, simply show a Kids for a Quid rail ticket at the attraction ticket desk to get one free child entry. Easy peasy! See the full list of the attractions we’ve teamed up with here.

Kids for a Quid train tickets mean up to four children can travel with a paying adult for just £1 each. They can be purchased at a ticket office or on board the train, and are valid on travel at the weekend or on any off-peak service.

Want to learn more?
Visit our Kids for a Quid page