Days Out Near Callander: Attractions, Adventures and Hidden Gems
Looking for Days Out Near Callander?
One of the joys of staying in Callander is that you're perfectly placed to explore some of Scotland's most popular attractions, historic sites and family-friendly adventures.
Whether you're travelling with children, looking for a rainy-day activity, interested in Scottish history or simply fancy trying something a little different, there is plenty to discover within a short drive of Nest Holiday Home.
Here are some of our favourite days out nearby.
Deanston Distillery (FK16 6AG)
If whisky is more your thing, we can thoroughly recommend a visit to Deanston Distillery.
Located in a former cotton mill on the banks of the River Teith, Deanston offers fascinating tours that take you behind the scenes of traditional whisky production. You'll learn about the history of the distillery, the craftsmanship involved and, most importantly, enjoy a tasting at the end.
After your tour, make time for the café next door. The menu is small but inventive, with excellent home baking, light lunches and usually a creative vegetarian option that goes well beyond the usual token salad. Even non-whisky drinkers often enjoy the setting and atmosphere.
Scottish Antique & Arts Centre (FK16 6HG)
Don't be fooled by the modest appearance from the outside.
The Scottish Antique & Arts Centre is a surprisingly sprawling treasure trove filled with antiques, collectables, artwork, furniture, books, jewellery and curiosities from every era imaginable. It's one of those places where you pop in for half an hour and emerge three hours later wondering where the time went.
Because everything is indoors, it's an ideal attraction for wet weather days. The on-site restaurant provides a welcome opportunity to rest your feet and enjoy lunch after a morning of treasure hunting.
The centre has won Best Antique Centre in the UK twice, which is no small achievement.
Blair Drummond Safari Park (FK9 4UR)
One of Scotland's most popular family attractions, Blair Drummond Safari Park is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Home to lions, giraffes, rhinos, monkeys, meerkats, sea lions, an elephant and much more, it's a full day out that combines wildlife, rides and play areas.
Younger visitors particularly love the dinosaur attraction, while older children often gravitate towards the giant adventure playgrounds, aerial runway and famous sack slide.
If you've never visited before, our tip is simple:
Arrive early.
Start with the drive-through safari while crowds are quieter, then head straight to Chimp Island before exploring the rest of the park at your own pace.
A word of warning about the monkey drive-through. While entertaining, some visitors decide the potential vehicle "customisations" performed by curious monkeys aren't quite worth the risk.
There are plenty of picnic areas throughout the park and barbecue facilities are available too. Bring your own food and the park will provide the charcoal.
Argaty Red Kite Feeding Station (FK16 6EJ)
One of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in Central Scotland.
Red kites were once hunted to near extinction in Britain but have made a remarkable comeback thanks to successful conservation programmes.
At Argaty, visitors can watch these magnificent birds swooping and diving during organised feeding sessions.
The experience includes an informative talk from knowledgeable guides who explain the history of the species, conservation efforts and the behaviour of these impressive birds of prey.
Bring your camera. You'll need it.
Briarlands Farm (FK9 4UP)
For families with children from toddlers through to early teens, Briarlands Farm is hard to beat. There is enough here to comfortably fill an entire day.
Attractions include:
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Outdoor play areas
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Tractor rides
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Animal encounters
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Giant jumping pillows
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Go-karts
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Football golf
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Maze
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Seasonal activities
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Strawberry picking
Parents often underestimate how much time they'll spend here. Take a football, a kite and a picnic and prepare to settle in. The restaurant serves good food and if they're offering their famous Coke and Chocolate Cake, we strongly recommend saving room. If you're a fan of strawberries, don't miss the chance to pick your own during the season.
One final piece of advice: Don't try to squeeze Briarlands Farm and Blair Drummond Safari Park into the same day. Both deserve a full day in their own right.
Doune Castle (FK16 6EA)
One of Scotland's most recognisable castles. Doune Castle has starred in Outlander, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones and numerous other productions. Even if you've never seen any of them, the castle itself is fascinating. Children love exploring the towers and great hall, while adults appreciate the rich history and stunning riverside setting.
Bring a picnic and allow time to explore the surrounding area. Or pop into the Buttercup café on the main street. On a warm day, the nearby riverside spots are perfect dunking and for relaxing after your visit.
Doune Ponds and Woodland Walk (FK16 6BB)
You can park up at the ponds and walk to Doune Castle. We recommend the peaceful Doune Ponds. This gentle woodland walk is ideal for families, dog owners and anyone looking for a quieter pace. The network of paths winds through mature woodland and around the ponds, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The paths have been built by a team of enthusiastic volunteers, making the area accessible for everyone.
It’s a lovely place to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air. Picnic benches make eating al fresco easy.
Stirling Castle (FK8 1EJ)
We may be biased, but we think Stirling Castle is every bit as impressive as Edinburgh Castle. Perched dramatically above the city, on a dormant volcano, it played a central role in Scotland's history and offers magnificent views across the surrounding countryside.
The restored palace, interactive exhibits and costumed interpreters bring Scotland's past vividly to life.
If you're interested in Scottish history, this is a must-see attraction. If you are travelling in August, don’t like crowds but want to see a castle, do Stirling instead of Edinburgh which gets very busy.
Do join a guided tour, the staff bring the history to life. If you are worried about keeping little ones occupied, they can do the “find the lego character” challenge. That helped a lot when we went.
The National Wallace Monument (FK9 4LF)
Standing proudly on Abbey Craig, the Wallace Monument commemorates Scotland's national hero, Sir William Wallace.
The climb to the monument is rewarded with spectacular views across Stirling, the Ochil Hills and beyond. Inside you'll discover fascinating exhibits covering Wallace's life and Scotland's turbulent history. Don’t forget your camera for panoramic views from the top.
Bannockburn Experience (FK7 OLJ)
The Battle of Bannockburn changed Scottish history forever. Today, the visitor centre uses interactive technology, immersive exhibits and storytelling to bring the famous battle to life. Even visitors who don't normally enjoy history often find themselves absorbed by the experience.
Stirling Old Town Jail (FK8 1EA)
Looking for something a little different? The Old Town Jail offers a fascinating glimpse into Victorian prison life. Guided tours are often delivered with humour and theatrical flair, making the experience entertaining, as well as educational. Children and adults alike are often surprised by how much they enjoy it.
Tennis at Dunblane and Bridge of Allan
If you're staying for a longer period and fancy a game, both Dunblane and Bridge of Allan offer excellent tennis facilities. Perfect for visitors who want to keep active while enjoying their holiday. The courts are generally well-maintained and can provide a pleasant way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Game of Throwing - Stirling Axe Throwing (FK8 1AX)
Fancy trying something completely different? Axe throwing has become one of Scotland's fastest-growing adventure activities and Stirling offers visitors the chance to safely test their Viking skills under expert supervision. Don't worry if you've never thrown an axe before. Most people are surprised how quickly they improve. It's great fun for groups, couples and anyone looking for a memorable experience.
Escape Stirling
Located in Stirling city centre, Escape Stirling offers a range of themed escape rooms where your team has 60 minutes to solve puzzles, uncover clues and complete your mission. Themes include pirates, wizards and post-apocalyptic adventures, making it suitable for both first-timers and seasoned escape room enthusiasts. Families with older children particularly enjoy the immersive storylines and the sense of achievement when the final puzzle clicks into place. It's a brilliant option if the weather isn't playing ball or if you're looking for an activity that gets everyone working together rather than staring at their phones.
Prison Escape Rooms at Stirling Old Town Jail
For something uniquely Scottish, the Victorian prison-themed escape rooms at Stirling Old Town Jail are hard to beat. Set within a real nineteenth-century prison, the experience combines puzzle-solving with atmospheric surroundings and a touch of local history. Choose between different prison-themed adventures and see whether your team can escape before time runs out. A particularly good choice for teenagers, adults and anyone who enjoys a little mystery.
Something for Every Kind of Visitor
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Callander is the sheer variety of attractions nearby. You can spend one day cruising across Loch Katrine, the next watching red kites, then follow it with a castle, a distillery, a safari park or an afternoon browsing antiques.
Whether you're travelling as a couple, family, group of friends or solo explorer, you'll find no shortage of memorable days out within easy reach of Nest Holiday Home. The only challenge is deciding where to go first.