The Ultimate Guide to a Family Holiday in Innerleithen, Scottish Borders
- Mark
- Aug 2
- 5 min read
Looking for the perfect family holiday in Scotland?
If you’re searching for family holidays in the Scottish Borders, Innerleithen could be exactly what you’re looking for.
Nestled in the beautiful Tweed Valley, surrounded by forests, hills and the River Tweed, Innerleithen is a fantastic base for families who want a holiday that combines outdoor adventure, fresh air, great food and plenty of opportunities to make memories together.
Unlike busier tourist destinations, Innerleithen offers the chance to slow down and enjoy time together. Children can swap screens for bikes, rivers, woodland trails and wildlife encounters, while parents can enjoy the relaxed pace, welcoming cafés and stunning Borders scenery.
Whether you’re planning holidays with kids in Scotland, a family countryside escape, or a mountain biking holiday for kids in Scotland, Innerleithen has something for every age.
Why Innerleithen is perfect for a family holiday in the Scottish Borders
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Innerleithen as your base is the variety of activities available close by.
You don’t need to spend your holiday driving from one attraction to another. Many of the best family experiences are within easy reach, meaning your days can be relaxed and flexible.
A morning exploring forest trails can easily be followed by an afternoon canoeing on the River Tweed, an ice cream in town or a family meal before heading back to your accommodation.
It’s the kind of place where children quickly settle into outdoor adventures and parents rediscover the joy of simple family time.
Family mountain biking at Glentress
No guide to family holidays in Innerleithen would be complete without mentioning mountain biking.
Just a short drive away is Glentress Forest, one of Scotland’s most famous mountain biking destinations and a brilliant place for families to ride together.
Glentress isn’t just for experienced mountain bikers. The forest has a range of routes, including beginner-friendly bike trails at Glentress, making it a great introduction to mountain biking for children and families who are building confidence.
You can explore the different routes on the official Glentress bike trails guide.
For families who want to improve their skills, there are also excellent local coaching options.
Dirt School Kids Academy provides coaching sessions designed specifically for young riders, helping children develop confidence, technique and trail skills in a fun environment.
For guided rides, skills sessions and personalised coaching, Gowaan offers services for riders of all ages and abilities.
If mountain biking is the main reason you’re visiting the area, don’t miss our full guide:
Canoeing and adventures on the River Tweed
The River Tweed is at the heart of life in the Borders, and exploring it from the water is a wonderful family experience.
Canoeing is a brilliant activity for families because it combines adventure with the chance to slow down and appreciate the scenery, wildlife and peaceful surroundings.
For ideas and inspiration, Go Tweed Valley’s canoe trip guide is a great place to start.
For guided family-friendly canoeing experiences, Biggar Adventure’s canoeing trips offer a great option for beginners.
On warm summer days, many families also enjoy paddling and playing along the shallow edges of the Tweed. Experienced open-water swimmers will find popular swimming spots nearby too, although water conditions should always be checked carefully before entering the river.
High ropes and forest fun at Go Ape
If your children still have plenty of energy after exploring the trails, Go Ape at Glentress is guaranteed to be a highlight.
With tree-top challenges, rope bridges and zip wires, it’s the perfect way to add a little excitement to your family adventure.
There’s something very satisfying about watching children tackle challenges they didn’t think they could do—and celebrating together afterwards.
Alpaca walks in the Scottish Borders
For a gentler adventure, a visit to Velvet Hall Alpacas is a wonderful family experience.
Walking alongside these friendly and curious animals through the Borders countryside is a memorable activity for younger children and animal lovers.
It’s also a lovely change of pace after more energetic activities like mountain biking or hiking.
Pony riding and pony care experiences
For children who love horses, Haughhead Stables offers pony riding and pony care experiences.
These sessions give children the chance not only to ride but also to learn about grooming and caring for ponies—a hands-on experience that many children remember long after their holiday ends.
Family-friendly days out and rainy-day activities
Discover the history of printing at Robert Smail’s Printing Works
Not every Scottish Borders adventure needs sunshine!
For a fascinating indoor activity, Robert Smail’s Printing Works in Innerleithen offers families a glimpse into the world of traditional printing.
Children can see historic printing presses in action and discover how newspapers, posters and books were produced before modern technology.
Get lost in Traquair’s famous maze
A short drive from Innerleithen takes you to Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited house.
While the history of the house is fascinating, the maze is often the highlight for younger visitors. Children can race through the pathways while parents enjoy exploring this beautiful historic setting.
Places to eat with kids in Innerleithen
After a day full of adventure, you’ll have worked up an appetite.
For a relaxed family meal, Out Out Pizzeria is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Great pizza, a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of options for hungry children make it an easy choice after a busy day outdoors.
And no family holiday is complete without ice cream.
A trip to Caldwell’s Ice Cream is the perfect way to finish a day exploring Innerleithen.
Family-friendly accommodation in Innerleithen
Choosing the right accommodation can make a huge difference to a family holiday.
At Room@1 Chapel Street, we’ve designed our accommodation to make family stays comfortable, convenient and relaxing.
Families visiting Innerleithen benefit from:
A spacious family-sized room with space to relax after a day exploring
Self-catering facilities for easy breakfasts, packed lunches and family meals
Secure bike storage for families bringing their own bikes
A central Innerleithen location close to local attractions, restaurants and shops
A comfortable base for exploring Glentress, Peebles and the wider Scottish Borders
Whether you’re visiting for a mountain biking weekend, a school holiday break or a longer family adventure, Room@1 Chapel Street gives you the flexibility to enjoy Innerleithen at your own pace.
Planning a Family Holiday in Innerleithen: Your Questions Answered
Is Innerleithen good for a family holiday?
Yes. Innerleithen is one of the best bases for a family holiday in the Scottish Borders, offering outdoor adventures, family attractions, excellent food and easy access to the surrounding countryside.
What are the best things to do in Innerleithen with kids?
Popular family activities include mountain biking at Glentress, canoeing on the River Tweed, Go Ape, alpaca walks, pony experiences, Robert Smail’s Printing Works and Traquair House.
Is Glentress suitable for children?
Absolutely. Glentress has beginner-friendly routes that are ideal for children and families, with more challenging trails available for experienced riders.
Where is best to stay for a family mountain biking holiday in Scotland?
Innerleithen is one of the best locations because it provides easy access to Glentress and the Tweed Valley mountain biking network, while offering family-friendly places to stay and eat.
Does Room@1 Chapel Street have facilities for cyclists?
Yes. We provide secure bike storage, making it an ideal base for families visiting Innerleithen for mountain biking.
Ready to plan your family adventure?
From mountain biking and canoeing to alpaca walks, pony experiences, historic attractions and family-friendly food, Innerleithen is a fantastic destination for a memorable Scottish family holiday.
If you’re looking for a comfortable base for your next family holiday in the Scottish Borders, we’d love to welcome you to Room@1 Chapel Street.
We look forward to helping your family create memories that will last long after you’ve returned home.
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