Great Days Out in Argyll & the Isles

Scotland's Family Coast

Make a day of it in Argyll & the Isles. Choose from beaches, castles, gardens, and boat trips, whether you’re staying nearby or visiting from the Central Belt. Pick an area to explore and check journey times, opening days and any booking requirements before you set off

Find Your Next Day Out

Explore the options below, then check with each attraction or activity provider for seasonal opening and availability
Day Trips
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Beaches
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Attractions
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Boat Trips
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Ardkinglas House

Situated on the shores of Loch Fyne in Argyll, against a spectacular background of mountain and forest, Ardkinglas Estate covers about 4800 hectares. Ardking...

Ardkinglas Estate
Cairndow
Argyll
PA26 8BN

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Rothesay Castle

On the Isle of Bute, Rothesay Castle dates to the early 13th century and remains remarkably well preserved despite its age. Built by the Stewart family to de...

Rothesay Castle
Castlehill Street
Rothesay
Isle of Bute
PA20 0DA

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Benmore Botanic Garden

Celebrated for its towering conifers and spectacular rhododendrons, Benmore spans 120 acres and features a world-renowned collection of plants from regions s...

Benmore Botanic Garden
Uig
Dunoon
PA23 8QU

Tel: 01369 706261

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Benmore Outdoor Centre

Our expert instructors are passionate about the outdoors and trained to support all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned adventurers. Take part in act...

Benmore
By Dunoon
Argyll, PA23 8QX

Tel: 01369 706337

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Sea Kayak Oban

The waters around Oban represent one of the world's most amazing sea kayak destinations, with everything from idyllic sheltered shores to wild tidal races. S...

6-8 Argyll Street
Oban
PA34 5SG

Tel: 01631565310

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Cowal Cruises

We offer short boat trips around the Kyles of Bute from April to October. These trips range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours and focus on the history, scenery, and wild...

Tighnabruaich
Argyll
PA21 2EG

Tel: 07765958891

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Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel

Dunstaffnage Castle, one of Scotland’s oldest stone castles, sits atop an immense rock overlooking the Firth of Lorn near Oban. The former stronghold of the...

Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel
Castle Grounds
Dunbeg
By Oban, Argyll
PA37 1PZ

Tel: 01631 562 465

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Kathy Cameron Tour Guide & Driver

Let me take you on a bespoke and personal tour of my native Scotland, which I love so much. We can discover Scotland’s rich history and visit distilleries an...

15 Arkland
Inveraray
Argyll
PA32 8UD

Tel: +44 (0) 7775691641

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Where to have an unforgettable day out

Bute

Bute is the perfect place for a family adventure, with glorious beaches, heaps of history and wonderful wildlife to discover. Bute’s quiet roads are lovely for a family cycle ride. Because the island’s fairly low-lying, there are panoramic views and few strenuous climbs.

Endless beaches to choose from include Ettrick Bay, with its white sands, and Scalpsie Bay, with its seal colony. Rothesay, the main town, is a fantastic seaside resort brimming with character and Italian cafés. Families and kids will love exploring Mount Stuart, Rothesay Castle and visiting Bute Museum, which is packed with artefacts.

Check opening days and book ahead where required, particularly if you’re travelling by ferry.

Oban, Lorn & Isles

Fire the imagination with a visit to a ruined castle, or explore the small islands off the coast of Lorn. It’s a great place to get active outdoors with kids, with kayaking, sailing, and cycling all on offer.

Or take an exciting boat trip to see the local wildlife. Keep an eye out for basking sharks, whales, dolphins and eagles.

Kilmartin Glen, Mid Argyll & Knapdale

Kilmartin is the perfect place for a family day out. From nature tours to wildlife centres, castles to canals, beaches to bike trails and so much more. Visit Kilmartin Museum to explore the area’s archaeology, then discover the ancient sites of Kilmartin Glen.

Get the kids active in the great outdoors with great family-friendly walks and cycles. Or how about kayaking in the protected waters of the Crinan Canal? Kids will love to uncover Scotland’s history.

Explore the ancient sites of Kilmartin Glen, then discover the wildlife of nearby Knapdale. Visit the Argyll Beaver Centre to learn about local wildlife, or book a guided walk. Look for signs of beaver activity around Barnluasgan, where dawn and dusk offer the best chance of a sighting. Give wildlife plenty of space. The Heart of Argyll offers unique experiences for families, all set against its stunning landscape and coastline; be sure to check out Kilberry Beach.

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Scotland's Adventure Coast on YouTube

Immerse yourself in Argyll & the Isles by watching our dedicated YouTube playlist for food and drink, activities, and more!

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Explore all the places to visit in Argyll & the Isles

3700km of coastline, 23 inhabited islands, major towns and villages are all waiting for you.

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