Ettrick & Yarrow Valleys - that's the place for Children's Activities

Children can find their own entertainment in the natural surroundings of the Ettrick and Yarrow Valleys.  There are farm animals in the fields, birds and wildlife to look for in the variety of landscapes, and wild flowers to spy at many times of the year. 

There are numerous opportunities for safe paddling for children and a number of fantastic swim holes for older kids.  There are great places for picnics and a favourite spot for families is beside the Loch of the Lowes in the Yarrow Valley. 

Bowhill House and Country Estate has Nutty the Squirrel's soft play area for smaller children.  There is also an exciting adventure playground where children of all ages can have fun for hours. 

Budding tennis players can enjoy an excellent tennis court in the village of Ettrickbridge.  A play area beside the court can also occupy the little ones.

The Salmon Viewing Centre and walk to 'the cauld' are popular with families and there is a brass rubbing trail here for children.  There are many other short walks in the valleys which are suitable for children including the Tree Trail at Bowhill (pictured left).

Just to the north, in the Tweed Valley at Glentress, older children (12+) can take to the trees at Go Ape.  The tree top adventure offers an exciting course of rope bridges, Tarzan swings and crossings.  It features the highest 'Go Ape' zip wire which passes over the reservoirs in the valley.

Look out also for special events for children through the season, particularly at Bowhill.

Above: Click on a date if it has a green background to view events.