Ten group-friendly visits in Scotland that are sure to entertain every member of the group.
From basking in the beauty of its natural wonders, sampling the finest local food and drink created by passionate producers or delving deeper into its rich culture, Scotland is home to some unmissable experiences. Here are ten suggestions for your next visit.
1. Perth Museum
Following a £26.5 redevelopment project at Perth City Hall, Perth Museum is now the jewel in the city’s crown. Taking groups on a journey through Scotland’s past and present, at its heart is the Stone of Destiny, which has returned to Perthshire for the first time in move than 700 years. The ancient symbol of Scotland’s monarchy is one of the country’s most significant historical objects.
2. Uile-bheist Distillery & Brewery
This distillery can be found on the banks of Ness River, in heart of Inverness in the Highlands. It’s Scotland’s first and only ‘brewstillery’ producing artisan whisky and beer and uses eco-friendly solar panels in the production process. Tours include a discovery visit revealing the secrets behind the distillery process to an unusual tasting pairing whisky and beer with cheese and chocolate. Bespoke tours are also available for groups.
3. Dunnottar Castle
Scotland’s many dramatic castles include Dunnottar, perched on a rocky outcrop on the rugged Aberdeenshire coastline and surrounded on three sides by the North Sea. The clifftop ruins were once the impregnable fortress of the Earls Marischal, once one of Scotland’s most powerful families. The castle has ample free coach parking for pre-booked groups.
4. V&A Dundee
With its strong links to design, Dundee was chosen as the home of the first V&A museum outside London. The futuristic building on the city waterfront opened in 2018, and the permanent Scottish Design Galleries are the first in the world dedicated to telling the story of Scottish design, which is much more than tartan. Group tours include an overview of the museum highlights and specialised topics such as the museum’s architecture.
5. The Kelpies
Scotland is home to the world’s largest equine sculptures. The 100-foot-tall Kelpies are at Helix Park between Falkirk and Grangemouth. Created by artist Andy Scott they honour the role of Clydesdale heavy horses in Scottish heritage and a guided tour reveals the incredible story behind the structures. For energetic groups the surrounding park forms part of a 15-mile cycle route which runs past another engineering masterpiece; the Falkirk Wheel rotating boat lift.
6. Lennox of Lomond
Discover rural life on this traditional working hill farm that’s a short distance from Glasgow and boasts panoramic views over Loch Lomond. Eleven generations of the Lennox family have worked the land since 1750 and today they raise cattle and distinctive Scottish Blackface sheep. Fun and informative group activities include lambing tours, quad bike trailer outings and sheep dog and sheep shearing demonstrations. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the Scottish countryside.
7. The Burrell Collection
Occupying a unique setting in Pollok Country Park, Glasgow’s largest green space, the galleries showcase one of the greatest art collections ever amassed by one person; Scottish shipping magnate Sir William Burrell. The 9,000 objects span 6,000 years of history, including some of the most important Chinese art in the UK and medieval treasures. The tranquil Walk in the Woods gallery enables visitors to enjoy the beautiful woodland surroundings, whatever the weather.
8. Scotland’s Secret Bunker
Hidden beneath a Scottish Farmhouse in Argyll, there is a tunnel which leads to Scotland’s Secret Bunker, a 24,000 sq ft secret accommodation on two levels, 100 feet underground. Had there been a nuclear war, this is where Scotland would have been governed. It is one of Scotland’s deepest and best-kept secrets, with group perks including discounted admission and free coach parking.
9. Loch Ness Centre
The Loch Ness Centre explores the iconic story behind the loch, alongside the scientific research that has turned ‘Nessie’ into a world famous name. Visitors will discover the many stories and sightings throughout the years, during the one-hour experience. Now operated by Continuum Attractions, there are group rates available (ten or more people) for tours and cruises on the loch itself along with complimentary refreshments for the coach driver and other benefits.
10. Highland Wildlife Park
Take a walk and drive on the wild side at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) Highland Wildlife Park. Set against the magnificent backdrop of Cairngorms National Park, you will see a range of native species including Scotland’s wildcats, red deer and red squirrels and animals from further afield such as Amur tigers, snow leopards and Scotland’s only polar bears. Explore by coach on a guided tour with one of the park’s rangers and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the walk-round area.
