Five Sisters Zoo

The drive out to Newbridge from Edinburgh takes you past fairly unremarkable countryside, but Five Sisters Zoo makes the trip worthwhile if you've got restless kids in tow. It's a compact zoo - you won't need more than two or three hours here - but they've packed in a decent range of animals across the grounds. Big cats, primates, birds of prey, the usual suspects really. The enclosures are modern enough and the animals seem well looked after, though it's not going to blow you away if you're comparing it to larger facilities elsewhere in Scotland.

What works best is bringing younger children, particularly those aged four to ten. There's enough to see without it feeling overwhelming, and the walking's manageable. Teenagers might find it a bit tame unless they're genuinely interested in conservation or animal behaviour - the zoo does emphasise educational elements alongside the entertainment.

If you're staying at Linwater Caravan Park, which is just six miles away, this makes an easy half-day outing. The park itself is rated highly and sits well for exploring the Lowlands, so combining a zoo visit with other local attractions isn't difficult. Check admission prices and opening hours before you head out - they can vary seasonally and it's worth phoning ahead rather than arriving to find they're closed for a private event or something equally frustrating.

Prepare for muddy paths after rain and bring proper footwear. The gift shop is mercifully small, which some parents will appreciate.