Great Family Activities for a Fun-filled day in East Lothian
Looking for ideas to keep the kids entertained? From unforgettable animal encounters and exciting outdoor adventures to beach days and sweet treats, East Lothian is packed with family-friendly experiences that make every day out feel special. Whether you're visiting for the weekend or enjoying the school holidays, here are some fantastic family adventures to inspire your next trip.
Animal Encounters
Meet some very cute friends
Say hello to some seriously adorable animals at John Muir Alpacas, where you can enjoy a unique alpaca walking experience along the coast. Learn all about these gentle creatures, feed them, and even take one for a walk. It's a memorable day out that’s perfect for the whole family.
Experience Farm Life
Visit The Bus Shop, where you can meet alpacas, sheep, pigs and chickens on a working East Lothian farm. Don't miss their popular Goat Tea Experience, where you can enjoy tea and sweet treats while spending time with their friendly pygmy goats. With guided farm experiences and a focus on nature and regenerative farming, it's a great way for children to get closer to animals and the countryside.
Get closer to incredible wildlife
Discover Scotland's amazing marine life at the Scottish Seabird Centre, where interactive exhibits and live cameras bring the natural world right up close. Watch seabirds nesting on nearby islands, learn about local conservation efforts and explore North Berwick harbour for a full day of coastal adventure. For an even closer look, hop aboard a wildlife boat trip and experience spectacular seabird colonies and dramatic coastal scenery from the water.
Farmyard Fun
For a fun-filled day that keeps little ones entertained for hours, head to East Links Family Park. Meet friendly farm animals, enjoy train rides, trampolines and indoor soft play, and explore a huge range of activities designed for all ages. It's the perfect place for kids to play, discover and burn off energy while parents join in the fun. Please note: East Links Family Park is due to close on 31 August 2026 making this summer one of the last opportunities to enjoy this much-loved family attraction.
Outdoor Adventures
Make a splash
For a high-energy day out, head to Foxlake Adventures, where families can dive into a range of exciting water-based activities. From wakeboarding and ringo rides to the inflatable Aqua Park and a unique rope course over the water, it’s a fantastic way to get active, try something different, and make unforgettable memories together.
Take on an outdoor challenge
Looking for something a little different? Wild Cairns offers outdoor experiences designed for families to enjoy together in a fun and supportive environment. From assault courses and axe throwing to airsoft and mini-Highland Games, there’s plenty to get everyone involved, build confidence, and have a laugh along the way.
Wander through woodland magic
Step into a magical woodland setting and enjoy some fresh air with the whole family. Pressmennan Wood near Stenton offers peaceful trails, wildlife spotting, and plenty of space for little explorers to roam. Keep an eye out for the hidden fairy doors and the mysterious Tingfloots and Glingbobs, which add an extra touch of wonder and imagination to your visit.
Take a swing at golf
Renowned as Scotland's Golf Coast, Gullane Children's Course is a great place for young golfers to have a go. Designed especially for children and beginners, it's a fun and relaxed way to learn new skills while enjoying the fresh air and stunning coastal views.
History, Discovery and Culture
Take off on an aviation adventure
Get ready for an unforgettable day out at the National Museum of Flight, where fascinating stories of aviation come to life. Step aboard Concorde, explore historic aircraft up close, and discover the people and innovations that changed the way we travel. It’s an exciting and inspiring experience for curious minds of all ages.
Step back in time at Newhailes House & Gardens
Explore the grand house, discover its fascinating history, and enjoy a wander through the peaceful grounds. Families will love Weehailes play park, a brilliant natural play area inspired by the estate’s heritage, perfect for letting little ones climb, explore and burn off some energy.
Catch a show at The Brunton
From family theatre and cinema screenings to live performances, The Brunton offers a varied programme to entertain all ages.
Gardens, Trails and Relaxed Days Out
Discover a hidden garden escape
Enjoy a relaxing day out at Archerfield Walled Garden, where there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Wander through the beautiful grounds, stop off at the café, and don’t miss the enchanting fairy trail, where little imaginations can run wild as they search for hidden doors and magical surprises along the way.
Pack a picnic and head to the beach
With miles of beautiful coastline, East Lothian is perfect for a family picnic. Build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, and enjoy some fresh air at one of our stunning beaches.
Explore on two wheels
With quiet country roads, scenic coastal routes and family-friendly trails, East Lothian is a fantastic place to explore by bike. Cycle along sections of the John Muir Way, take in stunning sea views, discover charming towns and villages, or enjoy a gentle ride suitable for younger cyclists. Whether you're bringing your own bikes or hiring them locally, it's a fun and active way for the whole family to experience more of East Lothian.
Enjoy a round of putting
Simple, classic fun! Head to East Links or West Links in North Berwick or Musselburgh Fisherrow for a relaxed and friendly game that’s perfect for all ages. It’s a great way to add a little competition to your day while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings.
Active Indoor Fun
Bounce into fun
Let the kids burn off some energy with a bouncing session that’s guaranteed to put smiles on faces. Jump In Trampoline Park offers wall-to-wall trampolines and plenty of space to leap, flip and play. It’s a fantastic option for rainy days and just as fun for adults who want to join in too!
Dive into family swim time
Head to one of the area’s swimming pools for a fun and active session. Perfect for all ages, whatever the weather. Free swimming is available across East Lothian for children and young adults aged 26 and under during the summer holidays, running until Friday 7 August, making it even easier for families to get active and make a splash.
Let off steam at soft play
Perfect for younger children (and for rainy days), East Lothian has some fantastic soft play centres where little ones can climb, crawl and explore to their heart’s content. Each offers a safe and engaging space for younger kids to burn off energy while parents can relax nearby. You’ll find great options across the area, including:
- Wiggles at the Loch Centre, Tranent and Jamboree at Musselburgh Sports Centre (where soft play is half price all summer)!
- Softspott Soft Play, Dunbar
- Jabberwocky Soft Play, Haddington
- Jumble Tumble Soft Play, Musselburgh
- The Play Barn at Whitekirk Hill
Stop for an ice cream treat
No family day out is complete without ice cream! Treat yourselves at Lucas in Musselburgh or Alanda’s in North Berwick, two local favourites serving delicious ice cream that’s perfect after a day exploring.
Travel for less
Why not leave the car behind and explore East Lothian by rail. ScotRail serves the towns and villages of Musselburgh, Wallyford, Prestonpans, Longniddry, Drem, North Berwick, East Linton and Dunbar, making it easy to reach many of the area's top attractions. Families can take advantage of ScotRail's Kids for a Quid offer, allowing up to four children aged 5–15 to travel for just £1 return each when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. It's a great-value way to enjoy a family day out.
Family Events Coming Up
Alongside our fantastic attractions and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of family-friendly events to enjoy the summer.
The Great Solar System Adventure
20-24 July | National Museum of Flight
Blast off on an immersive journey through space with Cosmos Planetarium. Travel around the solar system, explore nearby planets and discover the wonders of our universe in this exciting family experience.
The Superhero Family Raceday in partnership with the Edinburgh Children's Hospital Charity
21 July | Musselburgh Racecourse
Dress up as your favourite superhero and enjoy a fun-filled family day at Musselburgh Racecourse. Alongside exciting horse racing, there will be superhero meet-and-greets, children's entertainment, fairground rides, pony rides, face painting and plenty of family activities throughout the day. Children aged 17 and under go free when accompanied by an adult, making it a fantastic value day out for families.
Fringe by the Sea
31 July – 9 August | North Berwick Lodge Gardens
One of Scotland's most loved summer festivals returns with a packed programme of family entertainment, live performances, music, workshops and activities for all ages.
Jurassic Hill
29-30 August | Whitekirk Hill
Travel back to prehistoric times and meet Bruno the T-Rex and his dinosaur pals. Enjoy fossil-making activities, interactive experiences and plenty of dinosaur-themed fun for budding palaeontologists.
Ready to start exploring?
Whether you're meeting alpacas, exploring woodland trails, stepping aboard Concorde, making magical fairy memories or enjoying an ice cream by the sea, East Lothian is packed with family adventures waiting to be discovered. Visit here and start planning your next family adventure in East Lothian.
Author: Jackie Gardiner
Visit East Lothian
