Family Activities in the Cairngorms
Practical, instructor-led activities for families staying in and around Grantown-on-Spey. Choose what suits your ages, pick a date, and book online below.
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Things to do with kids in the Cairngorms
Most families visiting the Cairngorms want something thatâs easy to plan, age-appropriate, and feels like a proper day out â without needing loads of kit or experience.
We run a mix of short taster sessions, confidence-building activities for younger children, and more adventurous options for older kids and teens. Youâll also find plenty to pair around your activity: riverside walks, easy local trails, and family golf options (including Footgolf / Disc Golf when available).
Best place to start: the âWhatâs onâ listings below show live dates, times, ages and durations â so you can book whatâs running during your visit.
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Age guidance (what usually suits who)
Families often book with mixed ages. The exact minimum ages can vary by session, so always check the live listings below for the activity you want to book.
Toddlers & pre-school (approx. 3â5)
Look for calm, low-pressure sessions where little ones can try something new without a long attention span. Family paddling / pond sessions are often a great fit. Land-based options like Footgolf / Disc Golf can also work well as a flexible family outing (when available).
Tip: choose the option that suits the youngest child first â it keeps the whole booking simple.
Primary age (approx. 6â9)
This is a great age for skill-based sessions with clear goals and quick wins. Many families choose paddling sessions, and from around 8+ youâll often see Archery available. If youâre unsure, the listings will confirm minimum ages.
Older kids & teens (approx. 10â16+)
Older children and teens usually enjoy activities with a bit more pace and challenge. Depending on the season, you may see options like River Spey canoe trips, BattleZone Laser Tag, and family team sessions. Check the listings for the age requirements and session style.
What to expect (families)
Our family sessions are designed so everyone joins in. Your instructor will welcome you, run a clear safety briefing, and tailor the session to your groupâs ages and confidence.
We keep things practical and parent-friendly: straightforward instruction, supportive coaching, and activities that work well for mixed ages (siblings, cousins, parents and grandparents).
After booking, youâll get clear joining instructions including what to wear, what to bring, and where to meet.
Whatâs on during your visit
The listings below are the best source of truth â they show whatâs running right now, with live availability, minimum ages, and session lengths.
If you canât see an activity you expected, it may be seasonal, weather / water dependent, or simply not scheduled on your dates.
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Book family activities online
Choose an activity below to see dates, ages and times â then book online in minutes.
Weather & what to wear
What if it rains?
We carry on in typical Scottish weather, including light rain. Weâll pause or stop sessions if conditions are beyond what families can comfortably deal with (for example strong winds, storms, or unsafe conditions).
What should we wear?
Dress for the outdoors: layers, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof jacket. After booking youâll get activity-specific guidance.
If youâre booked on a watersport / paddling activity, bring swimwear to wear under kit â we can provide wetsuits when needed.
Water sessions
If you book a paddling session, expect splashes. The activity description will clearly indicate whatâs involved and what to wear.
Family FAQs
Which activities can families book online?
Most family-friendly sessions are bookable online. Start with the live listings below â they show whatâs running now, plus ages, durations and times.
What ages can take part?
It depends on the activity and session. The live listings show minimum ages. As a rule, pick the option that suits your youngest child first.
Are activities suitable for mixed ages?
Yes â mixed ages are very common. Instructors adapt pacing and challenges so everyone can join in and feel involved.
Do parents join in?
Yes â for family activities, everyone joins in. Youâll be participating alongside the kids under instructor guidance.
Can grandparents or non-participants watch?
Often, yes. For many land-based activities, parents and grandparents can observe if they donât want to take part. If this matters for your booking, check the activity details in the live listings (or ask us if youâre unsure).
What happens if the weather is poor?
We run sessions in typical Scottish conditions, including light rain. If conditions are beyond what families can comfortably deal with (such as storms or unsafe winds), weâll pause or stop and contact you about the best option available.
How long do sessions last?
Most family sessions are short and manageable (often 60â90 minutes), with some longer options. Exact durations are shown in the live listings.
We canât see what we want on the calendar
If itâs not showing in the listings, it may not be scheduled for your dates. You can request an activity and weâll respond with options.
Ready to pick your session?
Start with whatâs on during your visit. If youâve got a question or canât see what you need, weâll help.
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"A great range of fun activities!"
While on holiday in the Cairngorms we visited the award-winning Cairngorms Activities again and booked ourselves in for a number of activities across the week: canoeing, laser clays, archery, gorge walking and footgolf. The staff are really friendly and provide you with a clear safety brief and instruction to ensure you get the most from the activities. Our favourite activities have to be canoeing down the beautiful River Spey and gorge walking at Bridge of Brown although all were really great fun. Thanks to all the staff, in particular, Rachel, Dan and Ashley for making all the activities so enjoyable!
"What a fantastic place!"
We loved all of the activities and will be back again. The staff are very professional and friendly. Many thanks to Ash, James and Dan for a couple of fun days. Our boys (9 and 10) voted Cairngorms Activities the highlight of our holiday!
"Wonderful day!"
A few days ago, my family and I went to Cairngorms Activities for a day of archery and gorge walking. It was absolutely incredible! Great staff, wonderful facilities. Cairngorms Activities' crew didn't miss a beat and they went above and beyond to make sure that we had a great experience. Absolutely recommend.