11 great places in and around Glasgow to go with the kids this summer

At the heart of the city’s family appeal is the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, where free entry and packed galleries have made it a favourite for generations of Glaswegians. Children can come face-to-face with Sir Roger the Asian elephant, marvel at a suspended Spitfire aircraft or wander through displays ranging from ancient Egypt to natural history. Its location beside Kelvingrove Park also means families can easily turn a museum visit into a full day out, complete with playgrounds, picnic spots and riverside walks.

A short journey outside the city brings you to Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life, one of the country’s most engaging attractions for younger visitors. Set on the site of a former ironworks, the museum tells the story of Scotland’s industrial past in a way that feels more adventure than history lesson. Children can climb aboard restored trams, explore miners’ rows and see powerful machinery brought back to life, while parents often find themselves just as interested in the nostalgia woven through the exhibits.

For families keen to spend time outdoors, Strathclyde Country Park remains one of the most reliable crowd-pleasers near Glasgow. Centred around a man-made loch, the park offers cycling routes, watersports, play areas and open green spaces perfect for burning off energy. In warmer months, pedal boats and ice cream kiosks create a holiday atmosphere, while year-round walking paths attract dog walkers, joggers and young families.

For more inspiration on what to do in and around Glasgow this summer, have a look at the list below.