Visiting the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre: Complete Family Guide
Located in Glenmore village, just 6 miles east of Aviemore (right on the main road towards Cairngorm Mountain), the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre is one of the most unique family experiences in Scotland. Home to Britain’s only free-ranging herd of around 150 reindeer, it offers children and adults a rare chance to see these gentle Arctic animals in their natural mountain habitat.
Whether you’re booking a guided walk up the mountain or keeping things low-key at the paddocks, here is everything you need to know to plan a smooth, stress-free family day out from your base with Escape Cottages Scotland.
The Two Ways to Visit
The Hill Trip (1.5 – 2 Hours)
Led by knowledgeable herder guides, the Hill Trip takes you onto the slopes of the Cairngorm Mountains to walk right alongside the free-roaming herd.
What to Expect: A guided mountain trek (around 30–40 minutes of walking each way over uneven terrain).
Interaction: While you cannot stroke or pet the reindeer (they value their personal space!), you get to admire them up close, and guides conduct controlled hand-feeding sessions during the visit.
Suitability: Requires a moderate level of fitness. Hill trips are not wheelchair accessible.
Important: Hill trips must be booked online in advance. Because the walk takes place on high ground, trips are strictly weather dependent and may be cancelled in severe conditions for safety.
The Paddocks & Exhibition (Easter to New Year)
If you have toddlers, limited mobility, or simply want a shorter visit, the Paddocks are ideal.
Accessibility: Most areas of the Paddocks and Exhibition are wheelchair accessible, equipped with a dedicated wheelchair lift for accessing Reception, the Shop, and main entrance areas.
The Experience: A chance to view a small group of reindeer up close without the mountain walk, alongside informative displays about herd life in the Cairngorms. (Note: Paddocks are non-contact; no hand-feeding or petting allowed here).
Practical Information for Families
Dogs: No dogs are allowed on the Hill Trips or within the Paddocks, as reindeer naturally view dogs as predators. (Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the shop area).
Public Toilets: There are no public toilets on-site at the centre. The nearest public conveniences are located 200 metres away next to the bus stop in Glenmore village.
Gift Shop & Vouchers: The on-site shop offers handmade souvenirs, local gifts, and gift vouchers. You can also support conservation work by adopting a reindeer for your family or as a gift!
Essential Gear: What to Pack & Wear
The Cairngorms are beautiful, but the weather can shift rapidly. Being prepared makes all the difference!
Footwear (All Seasons): Sturdy hiking boots or wellies with strong grip are required year-round for Hill Trips due to muddy, rocky paths. Soft trainers are not recommended.
Winter Essentials: Layers, full waterproofs, warm hats, and thick gloves.
Summer Protection: Midges are common around Glenmore and mountain heather in summer. We strongly recommend packing Smidge insect repellent!
Plan Your Stay with Escape Cottages Scotland
After a day outdoors on the mountainside, return to the comfort of your warm, spacious self-catering holiday home. Perfect for drying out muddy boots, cooking family meals, and relaxing together.
Explore Our Family Self-Catering Cottages in Aviemore