Best things to do in Aviemore with kids

Tucked into the Cairngorms like a flapjack in a lunchbox, Aviemore is the ultimate playground for families. Think mountains, lochs, forests—and enough outdoor space for your children to burn off an entire week’s worth of sugar in an afternoon.

But it’s not just fresh air and muddy wellies. Aviemore also delivers proper fun: steam trains, zip lines, sled dogs, and beaches. Yes, beaches. In the Highlands. You’ll be surprised how much you can pack into a family trip here—without needing a second mortgage.

This guide rounds up the best things to do in Aviemore with kids, whether they’re toddling, tantruming or full-teen sulking. Rain or shine, summer or snow, there’s plenty to keep them entertained—and wear them out nicely.

Rothiemurchus Estate – Outdoor Fun for All Ages

If your ideal family outing involves fresh air, mud, and possibly bribing your child with snacks to keep walking, Rothiemurchus is the place. This enormous Highland estate is just minutes from Aviemore and packed with outdoor activities that don’t require military-level planning.

You can start with a gentle wander through ancient pine forests - ideal for buggies, scooters, or that one child who insists on wearing Crocs in the wilderness. There are well-marked trails, plenty of wildlife, and a solid chance of spotting red squirrels doing their best ninja impressions among the trees.

Older kids can try clay pigeon shooting (yes, really), pony trekking, or quad biking, because what says “family bonding” like roaring through a forest on four wheels? There’s also a tree-top aerial course for anyone feeling brave (or being peer-pressured by an 11-year-old).

The on-site farm shop and café are lifesavers. Decent coffee, child-friendly meals, and cake that could realistically be classed as a reward for parental survival.

Top Tip: Book ahead during holidays - Rothiemurchus is no secret. And bring layers. Always bring layers.

Highland Wildlife Park – A Must-See for Animal Lovers

If your children are the sort who can identify every species in Paw Patrol but think a Highland cow is a made-up animal, it’s time for a reality check at the Highland Wildlife Park.

Just 15 minutes south of Aviemore, this mix of safari drive-through and walk-around zoo is a big hit with kids—and not just because you get to stay in the car for part of it (although let’s be honest, that’s a huge plus on rainy days).

You’ll spot everything from Arctic foxes and red pandas to roaming bison and even polar bears. Yes, actual polar bears. In Scotland. Walker and Arktos are local celebrities and considerably less grumpy than they look.

The drive-through section feels like a mini Highland safari. Expect excited squeals as kids spot deer and wildcats. The walking areas are well laid out, and the enclosures feel properly wild—none of that concrete jungle nonsense.

There’s a play park, café, and decent toilets on-site—critical info for any parent with a toddler on a juice box rampage. Bring wellies and maybe a second pair of socks. Mud happens.

Top Tip: Go early for the animal feeding times and keep a spare snack or two to fend off any hanger-induced meltdowns (yours or theirs).

Landmark Forest Adventure Park – Action and Adrenaline

If your kids have energy levels somewhere between “uncontainable” and “terrifying,” Landmark is where you let them loose—and reclaim five minutes of peace while they burn through it.

Located in Carrbridge, about 10 minutes from Aviemore, this isn’t your average play park. Landmark is a full-blown adventure theme park in the middle of a pine forest, complete with rollercoasters, climbing walls, water slides and a fire tower that’s essentially a giant vertical sprint challenge for small maniacs.

Younger kids will love the Butterfly House (steamy, magical, and full of creatures that don’t bite) and the Dinosaur Kingdom, where life-sized animatronics growl, blink and occasionally terrify unsuspecting parents. For older thrill-seekers, the Runaway Timber Coaster and Wild Water Coaster offer proper adrenaline without needing a height waiver from NASA.

There’s also a maze, a treetop walk, and woodland trails for those who fancy a quieter pace—or just need to walk off a sugar high from the sweet shop near the entrance.

Everything’s well maintained and surprisingly clean considering how much mud and joy is involved. Plenty of picnic spots too, or opt for the cafés dotted around the park for burgers, toasties and blessed coffee.

Top Tip: Get there early and plan your route—it's bigger than it looks. And bring spare clothes. The water slide doesn’t do “slightly damp”.

Loch Morlich – Beach Days and Water Activities

Yes, there’s a beach. In the Highlands. And no, you haven’t taken a wrong turn to the Med. Loch Morlich offers golden sand, mountain views and just enough chill in the water to remind you you're still in Scotland.

It’s about 15 minutes from Aviemore and ideal for families. The shallow edges of the loch are great for paddling (cold enough to wake you up, but not frostbite-level), and there’s a proper sandy stretch where you can build sandcastles, dig holes, and pretend it’s 25°C even if it’s not.

Older kids can try paddleboarding, kayaking or sailing through Loch Morlich Watersports. All kit can be hired on-site, and instructors are friendly, patient, and fully aware they might be dealing with a wobbly dad in borrowed wetsuit gear.

There’s also a café nearby serving toasties, snacks and hot chocolate that feels like a hug after you’ve been waist-deep in a loch. Picnic benches and loos are dotted around, and the surrounding Glenmore Forest offers scenic trails if the weather turns or the kids need a post-swim wander.

Top Tip: Bring layers and towels - even in July. And don’t forget the bucket and spade. You will be asked for one.

Strathspey Railway – A Scenic Steam Train Ride

All aboard for peak nostalgia. The Strathspey Railway is like stepping into a storybook - with steam, whistles and that warm “Thomas the Tank Engine but Scottish” energy.

Running from Aviemore to Broomhill (with a stop at Boat of Garten), this heritage railway is a hit with train-obsessed toddlers, teens looking for chill views, and grown-ups who secretly love a bit of retro travel. The carriages are comfy, the scenery is ridiculous (in the best way), and the onboard snack trolley is... well, let’s just say it’s a highlight if you're under 10 or partial to a Wagon Wheel.

The journey takes around 90 minutes return, winding through Cairngorms countryside you wouldn’t see from the road. You’ll pass forests, lochs, and, if luck’s on your side, a few Highland cows posing like they’re on a VisitScotland poster.

Special events run throughout the year too, including Santa trains and themed days. Ideal if you want to inject a bit of seasonal magic or just get the kids to sit still for more than ten minutes.

Top Tip: Book online in advance, especially in peak season. And bring a jumper - it’s charmingly draughty, just like trains used to be.

Family Walks and Trails – Easy Routes with Big Views

Walking with kids can go one of two ways: joyful nature bonding... or a slow-motion protest involving snacks and dramatic collapses. Luckily, Aviemore’s trails cater to both outcomes.

Start with the Loch an Eilein circuit - an easy, mostly flat 5km loop through Rothiemurchus Forest, with a fairytale island castle plonked in the middle of the loch. It’s pushchair-friendly, dog-friendly, and has benches perfectly spaced for snack bribery.

Another winner is the Green Loch (An Lochan Uaine) near Glenmore. It’s a short walk (around 2 miles return), and the loch is a magical emerald green - cue wide-eyed amazement and at least one child declaring it’s full of goblins. It’s not. Probably.

For mini adventurers, the Craigellachie Nature Reserve just behind Aviemore is a quick climb with big pay-off views. Expect lochans, butterflies, and plenty of places to stop and pretend you’re on a wild animal safari (binoculars optional but strongly encouraged).

Paths are well marked and mostly manageable even for little legs. And if all else fails - play “spot the red squirrel” or just invent increasingly bizarre fairy tales about the trees. Works every time.

Top Tip: Bring snacks. Double them. You’ll thank yourself halfway round.

Indoor Options – What to Do When It Rains

It’s Scotland. You will get at least one day of weather best described as “horizontal”. But fear not - Aviemore has plenty to keep kids entertained indoors, without losing your mind or your wallet.

Top of the list: Macdonald Aviemore Resort. Right in the centre of town, it’s a family hub with a large indoor swimming pool - complete with flumes, wave machine, and a shallow toddler area. Great for burning off energy when outdoor options are more "monsoon" than "mountain walk." You don’t need to be a hotel guest to swim, but booking ahead is wise during peak times.
You’ll also find Soft Play @ the Resort, ideal for younger kids who need to clamber, slide and roll around somewhere that isn’t your Airbnb. It's safe, noisy, and blessedly padded.

For older kids and teens, Aviemore Kart Raceway is a solid option. Electric indoor karts mean less noise and fumes, more grinning competitiveness. Kids aged 8+ can race, and there’s a spectator area for siblings to cheer (or heckle).

When everyone needs a breather, the Glenmore Visitor Centre has interactive exhibits, wildlife facts, and hands-on displays. It's educational without being boring - plus it's free and dry, and it has a cafe.

And for the classic fallback? Find a café, order hot chocolate with marshmallows, and bring out the travel games. It’s the Highland rainy day ritual.

Top Tip: Pack swim gear and towels, even if you don’t plan to swim. Kids have a sixth sense for water-based detours.

Where to Eat with Kids in Aviemore

Feeding children on holiday is a high-stakes game of “what will they actually eat?” and “can we finish this before someone spills juice across the table?” Thankfully, Aviemore’s packed with places that welcome kids, and their chaos, with open arms.

The Winking Owl is a great shout for families. Relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and a menu full of reliable hits: burgers, mac and cheese, and haggis that even picky eaters might try if you call it “Scottish meatballs”. Bonus points for colouring sheets and a decent pint for the grown-ups.

For breakfast or a fuss-free lunch, The Mountain Café (at The Vault) serves up towering pancakes, quality coffee and hearty meals that satisfy even the hungriest post-hike child. Great veggie and gluten-free options too.

La Taverna, on the outskirts of town, is your go-to for all-you-can-eat Italian. Pizzas, pastas, garlic bread by the tray - perfect for kids who refuse everything until they see five options at once. It’s loud, cheerful, and no one cares if your toddler insists on eating spaghetti with their hands.

And if you’re up for a slightly more grown-up vibe that still welcomes kids, don’t miss The Old Bridge Inn. Cosy, atmospheric and right by the River Spey, it’s one of Aviemore’s best-loved spots. While it’s not aimed specifically at families, older kids will enjoy the proper food (steak, fish, hearty seasonal mains), and staff are usually very accommodating. Bonus: live music nights mean a bit of background noise to cover any dinnertime negotiations.

For takeaway picnics or casual eats, Route 7 Café is a great option. Grab toasties, cakes, or hot drinks and head to the nearby play park - an ideal setup if sitting still is not on the cards.

Top Tip: Book ahead for dinner - especially at The Old Bridge Inn and La Taverna. And always pack a snack... because someone will claim they’re starving five minutes after leaving.

Tips for Visiting Aviemore as a Family

Aviemore is a fantastic base for a family trip, but a little planning goes a long way - especially when you’re juggling wellies, waterproofs, and wildly fluctuating moods. Here are a few tips to help keep things running smoothly:

1. Layer Like a Local

Forget checking the forecast, it’ll probably change. Dress in layers, bring waterproofs, and always keep a spare pair of socks somewhere within reach. Wet feet = holiday meltdown.

2. Book Activities Ahead

Popular spots like Rothiemurchus, Landmark and the Highland Wildlife Park fill up fast during school holidays. Avoid the tears (yours or theirs) and book online where possible.

3. Mix It Up

Alternate big activity days with slower-paced ones. A full day at Landmark followed by a lochside walk and hot chocolate is a good balance. So is promising a trip to soft play after a “boring” nature walk.

4. Embrace the Outdoors (but Have a Backup)

Some of Aviemore’s best moments happen outside - but rain happens too. Always have an indoor option in your back pocket. Swimming, soft play, café pit stops... they're not just plan B, they’re sanity savers.

5. Don’t Skip the Small Stuff

Sometimes it’s the simple moments - throwing stones in the River Spey, spotting a red squirrel, or sharing chips on a bench that become the highlights. Let the magic happen naturally.
Aviemore is made for families. There’s space to roam, places to explore, and enough variety to keep every age happy (most of the time). It’s the kind of place where kids can be kids and grown-ups can actually enjoy themselves too.