If you’re planning a Scotland family adventure and want to explore the Highlands with children, Glencoe and Glenfinnan are two magical spots that offer unforgettable landscapes, walks, and experiences for all ages. From easy Highland walks with kids to spotting the Harry Potter train at Glenfinnan Viaduct, this area is packed with adventures for nature-loving families. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Glencoe and Glenfinnan with kids — including family walks, wildlife spotting, and iconic landmarks.
Glencoe is one of the most iconic landscapes in Scotland — dramatic mountains, tumbling waterfalls, and deep glens create a fairytale setting that’s perfect for families looking for outdoor fun. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Glencoe with kids, this area delivers a perfect mix of short walks, photo stops, and nature-based activities.
Start at Glencoe Visitor Centre – National Trust for Scotland
Before heading out on walks, a visit to the Glencoe Visitor Centre is well worth your time. Run by the National Trust for Scotland, it offers:
A family-friendly interactive exhibition on the dramatic history and geology of Glencoe
A short nature trail and woodland walk perfect for kids
An outdoor play area and stunning views from the café terrace
Toilets, baby changing facilities, and a well-stocked shop
It’s a great first stop to get your bearings, especially if you’re looking for easy walks, current trail conditions, or want to learn about the history of the area.
Things to do in Glencoe with kids: Family Walks in Glencoe
Glencoe Lochan
A beautiful, family-friendly walk around a still loch surrounded by Canadian pines. Flat, buggy-accessible trails make this one of the easiest and most peaceful family walks in Glencoe. Look out for ducks, herons, and reflections of the surrounding mountains.
An Torr & Signal Rock Trail
A gentle woodland trail with folklore built in — Signal Rock is said to be the historic gathering point of the MacDonald clan. A great option for young children with wide, easy paths and plenty of places to play among the trees.
The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail)
For families with older children (age 7+), this is a thrilling mini-adventure. You’ll scramble over rocks and cross a stream to find a secret, hidden glen between the mountains. It’s a fantastic family-friendly Highlands walk if your kids enjoy a bit of challenge and love dramatic scenery.
Drive the Skyfall Road – One of Scotland’s Most Scenic Routes
If you’re driving through Glencoe, don’t miss the stretch of the A82 between Glencoe and Loch Etive — famously known as the Skyfall Road after the James Bond film. It’s one of the most dramatic and scenic drives in Scotland, with towering mountains on either side and sweeping views down to Loch Etive.
📍 Tip for families: There’s a small parking area at the top of the glen (near the famous Skyfall viewpoint) where you can safely stop, take photos, and let the kids stretch their legs. It’s also a great place for a mini walk or snack break with unbeatable views.
Whether or not your kids have seen the Bond films, the landscape here is pure movie magic — perfect for capturing those “wow” moments on your family trip.
This is the spot where James Bond and M stand next to the Aston Martin in Skyfall looking out over the landscape of Glen Etive.
📍When visiting the area, please remember the Scottish Outdoor Access Code – take your litter home, if you’re camping, remove all traces of your pitch and don’t pollute.
The Wee White House (Lagangarbh Hut)
One of the most photographed spots in the Highlands, the tiny white cottage beneath Buachaille Etive Mòr is iconic. You’ll spot it from the Skyfall Road (A82) between Glencoe and Loch Etive. It’s a great place to stop for a family photo, due to the stunning landscape.
The Wee White House is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and is used by the Scottish Mountaineering Club.
Tip: There’s a small lay-by where you can safely pull over. It’s not a walk, but a quick stop with a big visual reward!
Glencoe Mountain Resort Chairlift – Family-Friendly Adventure
The Glencoe Mountain Resort is off the scenic A82 and is a great stop-off on your Glencoe roadtrip and fun addition to your Highlands itinerary.
The Chairlift at Glencoe Mountain Resort runs year-round (weather permitting), and takes you up Meall a’ Bhuiridh, one of the best viewpoints in the area.
Kids love it — it’s safe, smooth, and exciting, even for first-timers.
At the top, there are incredible views over Rannoch Moor, Buachaille Etive Mòr, and even Ben Nevis on a clear day.
There’s a café at the base station, and in summer you’ll often find food trucks and picnic areas.
Short Walks from the Top:
At the top of the chairlift, there are marked trails, including a short plateau loop walk which is suitable for families with older kids. Even just a wander around the upper station is worth it for the views.
📍 Good to Know:
Lift tickets are available at the resort (discounted for children).
Dogs allowed on the chairlift in summer!
Open for skiing in winter and sightseeing/hiking in spring, summer, autumn.
The Glencoe Mountain Resort and Chairlift is one of the best things to do with kids in Glencoe.
Best Waterfalls to Visit in Glencoe with Kids
Glencoe is famous for its dramatic mountains and moody skies, but it’s also home to some truly breathtaking waterfalls. Whether you’re stopping at a roadside viewpoint or walking through hidden woodland, these waterfalls are perfect additions to your family Highland adventure.
1. The Meeting of the Three Waters
Located just off the A82 at the foot of Buachaille Etive Mòr, this powerful cascade marks where three mountain streams collide and tumble into a deep gorge. You’ll find it just past the Three Sisters Viewpoint and is an easy stop on your Glencoe itinerary.
Easy stop with parking nearby
Iconic photo spot with dramatic mountain backdrop
Perfect for kids – no hike required, just a short walk from the car
This is one of the easiest and most rewarding things to do in Glencoe with kids, especially if you’re short on time but want a wow moment.
2. An Torr Waterfall (Hidden Gem near Signal Rock)
Tucked away on the An Torr / Signal Rock Trail, this small woodland waterfall feels like something out of a storybook.
Short, easy walk through pine forest
Great for little explorers and nature play
Near the Glencoe Visitor Centre
It’s not marked on many maps, but follow the stream from the bridge near the car park and you’ll discover it. A great place to combine a walk with some waterfall spotting.
3. Waterfalls on the Lost Valley Walk (Coire Gabhail)
This more adventurous trail leads into a hidden valley between towering cliffs — and along the way, you’ll pass mountain streams and cascading falls.
Ideal for older kids who enjoy a challenge
Multiple natural waterfalls en route
Stunning scenery and a real sense of exploration
If your family loves hiking and scrambling, this is one of the most exciting family walks in Glencoe.
4. Steall Falls (Bonus Pick – Near Glen Nevis)
While not technically in Glencoe, Steall Falls is just a 30-minute drive away and absolutely worth the trip. It’s the second-highest waterfall in Scotland and offers a short, magical walk through a dramatic gorge.
2.2 miles return trail, with rocky paths and a wire rope bridge
Incredible views and wild landscape
Best for confident walkers
This is a great stop if you’re visiting Fort William or pairing Glencoe with Glenfinnan on a family itinerary.
📍Parking is at the end of Glen Nevis Road.
Bonus Tip: Spot Waterfalls from the Road
Driving through Glencoe after rain? You’ll see countless unnamed waterfalls pouring down the cliffs on either side of the A82. Pull over safely in one of the many lay-bys and enjoy the view — these spontaneous waterfalls are one of the glen’s most magical features.
Best Places to Visit in Glenfinnan with Kids
Glenfinnan Viaduct with Kids – A Must for Harry Potter Fans
One of the most magical experiences in the Highlands is visiting the Glenfinnan Viaduct with kids — home to the famous Harry Potter train scene where the Hogwarts Express crosses the curved bridge.
Watch the Jacobite Steam Train
Time your visit right and watch the real-life Hogwarts Express puff across the viaduct. The best views are from the Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail, a short but steep walk up to the hillside viewpoint. You’ll see the train crossing with Loch Shiel behind — just like in the films.
📍 Tip: Check the Jacobite Steam Train timetable before you go (usually mid-morning and mid-afternoon in spring and summer).
Fun Fact: The Jacobite steam train runs along the West Highland Line, one of the most scenic rail routes in the world. While the steam train operates seasonally, regular ScotRail trains run this route year-round, so you can still see trains crossing the viaduct even outside the summer months.
Trains link Glasgow’s Queen Street station with Fort William and Mallaig over the West Highland Line all year round.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail (2.5 Miles)
This circular walk is a brilliant way to stretch little legs while soaking in views of the loch, monument, and viaduct.
The trail weaves through heather and pine forest, and is perfect for a morning or afternoon wander. The route takes in several viewpoints of the viaduct and Loch Shiel before arriving at Glenfinnan Station. Here, you’ll find a museum, dining car and a hostel inside a converted railway carriage. Pick up trail guides from the museum reception.
Glenfinnan Monument and Visitor Centre
Ideal for older kids who love history. Learn about Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite rebellion. The monument commemorates where Bonnie Prince Charlie first raised his standard at the start of the 1745 Jacobite uprising. Climb the tower for panoramic views over Loch Shiel — another famous filming location from Harry Potter.
Wildlife Watching in the Scottish Highlands
Glencoe and Glenfinnan are packed with wildlife. Make it a game for your children to spot:
Red deer in the early morning or dusk
Buzzards and golden eagles circling overhead
Highland cows in roadside fields — keep your camera ready!
Otters and seals around the shores of Loch Linnhe and Loch Shiel (if you’re lucky)
Bring a pair of binoculars and turn it into a wildlife scavenger hunt — perfect for keeping children engaged on walks.
Where to Stay – Family Accommodation in Glencoe and Glenfinnan
Whether you’re camping, glamping, or staying in a cosy cabin, there are lots of great options for families.
Invercoe Caravan & Camping Park – Lochside pitches, family cabins, and amazing views.
Glencoe Youth Hostel – Private family rooms and access to trails right from the door.
Local Airbnbs & Lodges – Look for cabins with hot tubs, fire pits, and wood burners for the full Highlands experience.
Book early during school holidays as these areas are popular!
Top Tips for a Highland Family Trip
Bring layers and waterproofs – the weather changes fast
Stock up on snacks – shops are few and far between
Plan toilet stops – public loos are sparse in remote areas
Use offline maps – phone signal can be patchy
Best Time to Visit Glencoe with Kids
You can visit Glencoe year-round, but your experience will vary depending on the season. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan the best family trip:
Spring (April–June)
One of the best times to visit: mild weather, longer days, and fewer midges.
Waterfalls are full from snowmelt and everything’s turning green.
Ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting — look out for red deer and birds of prey.
Summer (July–August)
Peak season with the warmest weather and busiest trails.
The Jacobite Steam Train runs daily, and most attractions are open.
Best for school holidays, but book accommodation early and expect midges!
Autumn (September–October)
Crisp air, golden bracken, and fewer crowds.
Great for photography and quieter family walks.
The Jacobite runs until late October, depending on the year.
Winter (November–March)
Magical snowscapes, especially around the mountains.
Fewer tourists, but weather can be unpredictable.
Great for a cosy cabin break — and skiing at Glencoe Mountain Resort.
Note: The Jacobite steam train doesn’t run in winter, but regular trains still use the West Highland Line.
- Best overall months for families: May, June, and early September – good weather, fewer crowds, and full access to attractions without the peak summer rush.
Final Thoughts: Glencoe and Glenfinnan for Families
From spotting the Harry Potter train in Glenfinnan to exploring waterfalls and hidden valleys in Glencoe, this corner of the Highlands is full of awe-inspiring family fun. Whether your kids love history, hiking, wildlife or wizardry, there’s something here to spark their imagination.
Planning a Scotland road trip with kids? Glencoe and Glenfinnan are must-stops on any West Highlands family itinerary. Hopefully this guide has helped you plan your Glencoe and Glenfinnan itinerary and has the best things to do with kids in the West Highlands.
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