There’s Nothing Like a Cosy Scottish Escape.
Crunchy leaves. Cracking fires. Brisk walks followed by hot coco. Autumn and early winter are some of the most beautiful times to explore Scotland.
We asked our team to share their favourite places to stay and explore with tips for travelling with littles ones. From cabins to bothies to camping with kiddies, here’s where we’d go and what we’d pack (or rent!) to make the trip a breeze.
Pillars Farm (Falkland, Fife)
Farm turned eco retreat with organic cafe, lamb feeding, craft workshops and cosy bothy style accommodation. It’s a firm family fit with animal interactions, outdoor space and relaxed settings. Ideal for babies and toddlers.
What to rent: Portable highchair and back carrier.
Portavadie Marina Resort and Cottages (loch Fyne)
Community led, eco-lodge escape with forest schools, play areas, cycling trails, and pathways for family fun. Family-friendly outdoor activities, large communal spaces, and rustic charm.
What to rent: Travel cot with add-ons like white noise machine/snoozeshade, raincover and cosy toes for prams.
Did you know there are around 780 Scottish islands?
If you’re up for going further afield, we love the west coast islands and they offer something truly special: wild beauty, warm welcomes, and all the fresh air and space a young family could wish for. Here are a few of our favourites:
Isle of Arran
One of the most accessible islands for families - just hop on a train to Ardrossan, and you’re on the ferry in no time. Once you’re there, the local buses will get you pretty much anywhere. The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore with little ones, and there’s no shortage of great food stops and gentle walks. Bonus treat? A boat trip from Lamlash to Holy Isle, where peace and puffins live side-by-side.
What to rent:
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Buggy raincover + footmuff (island weather changes by the minute!)
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Back carrier for woodland trails
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Travel cot for your cosy stay
Isle of Mull
Only 50 minutes by ferry from Oban, Mull gives you that true ‘off the mainland’ feeling without the long haul. It’s packed with dramatic scenery and little villages to explore and the adventure doesn’t stop there. From Mull, you can easily hop across to Iona, Staffa, the Treshnish Isles, or even spend a day on Ulva.
What to rent:
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Back carrier or off road pram with raincover for exploring rocky coastal paths
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Folding feeding chair for on-the-go meals
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Blackout blind (some of those remote cottages = big early morning windows!)
Travel Tip:
Island stays are some of the most enriching for young families but they often mean tight ferry luggage allowances and remote accommodation. That’s where our rental equipment comes in: choose what you need, and we’ll help you travel light.