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17 Sept 2024

Five fun activities to enjoy with the kids at Glencoe and Glenfinnan

Three girls sitting next to each other in a dark room look towards the camera as a film featuring a scene with mountains plays on a large screen behind them
Enjoy a short film showcasing the glen in the cinema area of the Glencoe Visitor Centre.
Discover tales of Jacobite history during the October holidays at these two beautiful and historic sites nestled in the Highlands.

1. Step back in time

Step inside the turf and creel house at Glencoe to experience what life would have been like almost 350 years ago. Close your eyes and listen to a realistic soundscape of people cooking, singing and dancing. A few times a week, there’s even a roaring fire to keep the damp at bay.

A child warms themselves by the fire in a recreation of an old Turf House
Visit the turf house to experience what life would have been like 350 years ago.

2. Take a walk on the wild side

Bring the whole family, even furry friends, for a sprightly walk around Glencoe National Nature Reserve. There are some easy routes that set off from the visitor centre, making it accessible for all. Don’t miss the Highland cows!

A family of two adults and two children walk along a path in Glencoe with Buachaille Etive Mor in the background.
The whole family can enjoy a walk around Glencoe National Nature Reserve.

3. Explore the exhibition (and enjoy a tasty treat!)

Warm up in the Glencoe Visitor Centre and explore the exhibition on mountaineering, or head to the cinema room where you can watch a short film all about the glen. Don’t forget a treat in the Highland Coo Café.

Children enjoying some tasty treats in the Highland Coo Café at Glencoe Visitor Centre
Lots of tasty treats are available in the Highland Coo Café.

4. Scale the monument

For brave adventurers, you can’t beat the views from the top of the Glenfinnan Monument. Climb the 63 steps to the top of the 18-metre tower and then pull yourself through a small hatch to reach the highest platform.

A tall stone column with the statue of a man on top, with mountains in the background
If you’ve got a head for heights, you can climb the Glenfinnan Monument.

5. Spot a train on the viaduct

Look across to the Glenfinnan Viaduct – made famous by the Harry Potter films – and try to spot a passing train. The area gets busy, so public transport is the best way to arrive – plus using the train from Fort William means you’ll get to cross the viaduct yourself.

Find out more about getting there via public transport

A young girl facing away from the camera looks at an information board with a huge stonework viaduct in the background
Keep your eyes peeled for a train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

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