Everything families need to know for a trip to Loch Tay — from child-friendly walks and activities to accommodation and rainy-day options.
Loch Tay is a superb family destination. The combination of outdoor adventures, fascinating heritage, and safe, manageable activities makes it ideal for children of all ages. Here’s what you need to know.
Best Activities for Families
Scottish Crannog Centre
The undisputed highlight for families. Children can try fire-making, handle ancient tools, and explore a reconstructed Iron Age loch dwelling. Interactive, educational, and genuinely fun.
Falls of Dochart
Free, dramatic, and endlessly fascinating for children. The island (Inchbuie) adds a sense of adventure.
Watersports
Several operators offer family kayaking, canoeing, and SUP sessions suitable for children. Minimum ages vary — typically 6–8 years old.
Cycling
The quiet roads, particularly Glen Lochay and the south shore road, are safe and scenic for family cycling.
Wildlife Spotting
Children love looking for:
- Red squirrels in the woods
- Red deer on the hillsides
- Ospreys over the loch (April–September)
- Dippers on the rivers
Child-Friendly Walks
- Falls of Dochart walk — Short, exciting, manageable
- Ben Lawers nature trail — 2 km loop, gentle gradient
- Killin to Loch Tay shore — Flat, lochside, picnic potential
- Glen Lochay — Flat, easy, riverside
Practical Tips
- Equipment — Wellies, waterproofs, and layers are essential
- Snacks — There’s a Co-op in Killin for supplies
- Toilet access — Public toilets in Killin. Limited elsewhere.
- Mobile signal — Patchy in glens. Don’t rely on it.
- Nearest hospital — Stirling or Perth (both 60+ minutes)