Family Friendly Things to Do in Newtonmore and Kingussie
If you're searching for the best family-friendly things to do in Newtonmore and Kingussie, you've come to the right place. Located in the heart of Badenoch within the spectacular Cairngorms National Park, these charming Highland villages offer some of the best family attractions in the Scottish Highlands.
Whether you're planning a family holiday in the Cairngorms, a weekend break, or looking for things to do with children in Newtonmore and Kingussie, you'll find plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. From fascinating museums and wildlife experiences to scenic walks, cycling adventures, outdoor activities, traditional Highland culture, and family days out, Badenoch is packed with unforgettable experiences.
With dog-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, local food, sporting traditions, and beautiful Highland scenery, Newtonmore and Kingussie are ideal destinations for families exploring the Cairngorms National Park.
Why Visit Newtonmore and Kingussie?
Newtonmore and Kingussie are widely regarded as two of the best destinations for family holidays in the Cairngorms National Park. Surrounded by mountains, forests, rivers, and wildlife, these welcoming Highland villages offer a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, culture, and history.
Visitors looking for things to do in Newtonmore and things to do in Kingussie will discover museums, walking trails, wildlife attractions, cycling routes, watersports, golf courses, Highland games, and authentic Scottish experiences that appeal to all ages.
Known as the heart of Badenoch, this beautiful part of the Scottish Highlands is perfect for families wanting to experience the very best of the Cairngorms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family-friendly things to do in Newtonmore?
Some of the most popular family attractions in Newtonmore include the Highland Folk Museum, Clan Macpherson Museum, the Wildcat Trail, Highland Wildlife Park, Pattack Falls, local walking routes, and the annual Newtonmore Highland Games. These attractions make Newtonmore one of the most popular family destinations in the Cairngorms National Park.
What are the best things to do in Kingussie with children?
Kingussie offers a wide range of family-friendly activities including visiting Ruthven Barracks, cycling with Bothy Bikes, walking the Gynack Mill Trail, enjoying outdoor activities with Peaks, Paddles & Pedals, fishing on the River Spey, and watching traditional shinty matches at The Dell.
Are Newtonmore and Kingussie good for family holidays?
Yes. Newtonmore and Kingussie are among the best destinations for family holidays in the Scottish Highlands. With wildlife attractions, museums, outdoor adventures, family walks, cycling trails, watersports, and dog-friendly activities, there is something for every age group.
What family attractions are near the Cairngorms National Park?
Many of the area's top family attractions are located in and around Newtonmore and Kingussie, including the Highland Folk Museum, Highland Wildlife Park, Clan Macpherson Museum, Ruthven Barracks, Laggan Wolftrax, Alvie Estate, Cairngorm Alpacas, and numerous walking and cycling routes.
Is the Highland Folk Museum worth visiting?
The Highland Folk Museum is one of the most popular attractions in the Cairngorms National Park and offers a fascinating journey through Highland life from the 1700s to the 1950s. With over 35 historic buildings to explore, it provides an excellent family day out in the Scottish Highlands.
What outdoor activities are available in Newtonmore and Kingussie?
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy mountain biking, walking, hiking, paddleboarding, canoeing, trail running, golf, horse riding, fishing, wildlife watching, and cycling throughout Badenoch and the wider Cairngorms National Park.
Are there dog-friendly attractions in Newtonmore and Kingussie?
Yes. Many attractions and walking routes welcome dogs, including the Highland Folk Museum grounds, Landscape Lore storytelling tours, local path networks, woodland walks, and many outdoor activities throughout Badenoch.
Where can I watch shinty in the Highlands?
Both Newtonmore and Kingussie are famous for shinty, Scotland's ancient Gaelic sport. Visitors can watch matches throughout the season and experience one of the most important sporting traditions in Highland culture.
Can you fish on the River Spey?
Yes. The River Spey offers excellent brown trout fishing and attracts anglers from across the UK. Fishing permits can be purchased locally or through the Badenoch Angling Association.
What is there to do on a rainy day in Newtonmore and Kingussie?
On wetter days visitors can explore the Highland Folk Museum, Clan Macpherson Museum, local cafés, independent shops, artisan food producers, and heritage attractions including Ruthven Barracks.
Explore the Best Family Attractions in Badenoch
Whether you're looking for family-friendly things to do in Newtonmore, exciting days out in Kingussie, outdoor adventures in the Cairngorms National Park, or unforgettable Highland experiences, Badenoch has something for everyone.
From spotting wildlife and exploring Highland history to cycling forest trails, paddling on local lochs, discovering ancient stories, watching shinty, and enjoying local food and hospitality, Newtonmore and Kingussie offer some of the best family attractions in the Scottish Highlands.
Start planning your family adventure today and discover why so many visitors return to Newtonmore and Kingussie year after year.
Stay in Newtonmore and Kingussie
St Vincent’s is a welcoming holiday stay in the heart of Kingussie, perfectly placed for exploring the Cairngorms National Park and the surrounding Badenoch area. Ideal for couples, families, and outdoor enthusiasts, it offers easy access to local attractions including Ruthven Barracks, the River Spey, Highland Wildlife Park, and the Gynack Mill Trail. Whether you're planning a family holiday in the Scottish Highlands or a short break filled with outdoor adventure, St Vincent’s provides a comfortable base for discovering the best things to do in Kingussie and beyond.
Ardchoile offers a peaceful and well-located stay in Kingussie, making it an excellent choice for visitors looking to explore the Cairngorms National Park and enjoy a traditional Highland escape. Close to local walking routes, cycling trails, shinty matches at The Dell, and outdoor activities along the River Spey, it’s ideal for families and couples seeking both relaxation and adventure. A great base for discovering family-friendly things to do in Kingussie, Badenoch, and the wider Scottish Highlands.
Birch Cottage is a cosy and inviting holiday home in Newtonmore, one of the most popular villages in the Cairngorms National Park. Perfect for families, walkers, and wildlife lovers, it is close to top attractions including the Highland Folk Museum, Wildcat Trail, Clan Macpherson Museum, Pattack Falls, and Highland Wildlife Park. With easy access to outdoor adventures, cycling, and scenic walks, Birch Cottage is an ideal base for those searching for family-friendly things to do in Newtonmore and the surrounding Cairngorms area.