Family-Friendly Activities in the Cairngorms in Summer

Planning a family holiday in the Scottish Highlands? The Cairngorms National Park is one of the UK’s best summer destinations for families, offering wide-open landscapes, wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures suitable for all ages.

Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teens, or a mix of both, here are some of our favourite family-friendly things to do in the Cairngorms in summer - all tried, tested and loved by visiting families.

1. Highland Wildlife Park

One of the most popular family attractions in the Cairngorms, Highland Wildlife Park is home to polar bears, snow leopards, wolves and native Scottish wildlife.

Families love the drive-through safari, where animals roam across large open enclosures, as well as the walk-around reserve with daily talks and feeding times. It’s educational, exciting and well-paced for younger children.

Good to know:

  • Suitable for all ages

  • Café and picnic areas on site

  • Allow at least half a day

📍 Kincraig, Kingussie, PH21 1NL
🌐 highlandwildlifepark.org.uk
📞 01540 651270

2. Landmark Forest Adventure Park

A firm favourite with families, Landmark Forest Adventure Park combines high-energy fun with nature-based play.

From tree-top trails and the Runaway Timber Train to water slides, adventure playgrounds and a butterfly house, there’s something here for every age and confidence level. Quieter woodland walks and picnic spots provide balance on busy days.

Perfect for:

  • Energetic children

  • Mixed-age families

  • Full-day visits

📍 Carrbridge, Inverness-shire, PH23 3AJ
🌐 landmarkpark.co.uk
📞 01479 841613

3. Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

A truly unique Cairngorms experience, the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre is home to the UK’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer.

Guided hill walks allow families to meet the reindeer up close while learning about their lives in the mountains. These gentle, informative trips are especially magical for younger children.

Top tip:

  • Book hill trips in advance during school holidays

  • Suitable for confident walkers

📍 Glenmore, Aviemore, PH22 1QU
🌐 cairngormreindeer.co.uk
📞 01479 861228

4. Loch Insh Outdoor Centre

For families who love being active together, Loch Insh Outdoor Centre offers one of the widest ranges of outdoor activities in the Cairngorms.

Choose from paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing, or relax on the family-friendly beach area during warmer weather. Land-based options such as archery, cycling and mountain biking mean there’s plenty to do even if the water isn’t calling. Land-based activities like archery and mountain biking are also available.

Great for:

  • Older children and teens

  • Building confidence outdoors

  • Flexible half-day adventures

📍 Kincraig, Kingussie, PH21 1NU
🌐 lochinsh.com
📞 01540 651272

5. Cairngorm Mountain

While best known for winter sports, Cairngorm Mountain becomes a fantastic family playground in summer.

Highlights include a purpose-built mountain bike park with trails for beginners through to advanced riders, as well as mountain tubing, which is hugely popular with children aged 4 and up. Bike hire is available, including balance bikes and e-bikes, making it accessible for families new to mountain biking.

📍Cairngorm Ski Area, Glenmore, Aviemore PH22 1RB
🌐 www.cairngormmountain.co.uk

📞 01479 861261

From wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures to gentle walks and relaxed days by the loch, the Cairngorms offers endless opportunities for memorable family holidays in summer.

For more inspiration, explore our the rest of our Discover Cairngorms blog, where we share local knowledge, seasonal ideas and favourite places to explore.

Ready to plan your trip?

If you’re looking for family-friendly accommodation in the Cairngorms, two of our properties are particularly well suited to travelling with children:

  • Hillview Cottage sleeps up to 7 guests, making it ideal for larger families or multi-generational stays. With generous living space and easy access to outdoor adventures, it’s a great base for exploring the area together.

  • Railway Cottage sleeps 4 guests and is a favourite with families with younger children. Its characterful setting beside the railway line often delights little ones, while parents appreciate the peaceful setting with stunning views all around.