Top 10 family days and dining deals to enjoy in Scotland this February half term
From the World of Illusions to dazzling jellyfish lanterns, Scotland is packed with unforgettable adventures for the whole family to enjoy!
Article Source: Taste
Last Updated: 6 February 2026 10:26
With a variety of affordable restaurant deals on offer, you can make a day of it without breaking the bank.
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden history at The Real Mary King's Close
This February half term, The Real Mary King’s Close invites visitors to step back in time and discover the intriguing stories of Edinburgh’s past. For those seeking a hands-on adventure, Dr Arnott’s Sampling Sensation offers families a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in historical medicine. After a guided tour of the Close, participants will use all their senses, including taste, to diagnose ailments using 17th-century techniques. Guests will also create their own herbal remedy using authentic recipes.
For more information and booking details, visit www.realmarykingsclose.com
Beat the crowds at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Immerse yourself in over 100 interactive exhibitions at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, located just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Step into the spinning Vortex Tunnel, shrink yourself in the Ames Room, get lost in the Mirror Maze and snap a group selfie from the Rooftop Terrace with panoramic views of the city.
From the 8th - 12th February, the attraction will stay open for longer and open early during the busiest week, allowing a slower place to enjoy the exhibitions on offer, as well as £4 off per admission when booking before 9am (online only).
For more information and opening times, please visit: www.camera-obscura.co.uk
Uncover the truth about Nessie at the Loch Ness Centre
Are you ready to uncover the truth about Scotland’s legend? At the newly reimagined Loch Ness Centre, families can walk through 500 million years of natural history, folklore and scientific exploration. On the immersive 1-hour tour visitors can walk through themed rooms packed with interactive exhibits, ancient myths, real scientific research and dramatic retellings of Nessie sightings over the decades. Along the way, you’ll uncover artefacts, explore the natural history of the loch, and come face-to-face with the facts and folklore behind Scotland’s most famous mystery.
To find out more and book your tickets, please visit: lochness.com
Step into a magical world at Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns Trail
Scotland’s most dazzling light trail is back as Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns transforms the zoo into an underwater wonderland, featuring over 600 handcrafted Chinese lanterns - from giant crabs to glowing whales.
Running on select nights until Sunday 22nd February, it’s the perfect adventure for families looking to brighten up the dark evenings. With toasted marshmallows, mulled wine and ocean-inspired storytelling along the route, it’s a feast for the senses that supports vital wildlife conservation work.
For more information and to book your ticket, please visit: www.edinburghzoo.org.uk
Kids stay free at the iconic Old Course Hotel
From Monday 9th to Sunday 22nd February, the Old Course Hotel offers a calm base for families looking to make the most of the holidays. Children and teens (up to 17) stay free when sharing with parents and are welcomed with their own robe, slippers and a small special gift. Days can be filled with the range of activities on offer like swimming sessions or a quiet read from the hotel’s library, while the children’s menus across the restaurants guarantee to please even the fussiest of eaters.
For more information and to book, please visit: www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk
Free family fun at Thistles Shopping Centre
Thistles is hosting five days of free, family-friendly entertainment this February half-term, running daily from 11am–3pm. Activities include a live tribute performance, meet-and-greet experience, Pancake Tuesday-themed craft sessions, face painting, Valentine’s-inspired crafting, and character appearances from a popular blue children’s TV pup on Friday.
All activities are free, require no booking and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. To find more information, please visit: thistlesstirling.com
Kids eat for just £1 at Vittoria on the Walk
Family-run Italian favourite Vittoria on the Walk is offering a standout, budget-friendly dining deal in Edinburgh, with kids eating for just £1 - a 90% saving.
Running from the 1st - 22nd February, every Sunday, the Kids Eat for £1 offer is valid with the purchase of any adult main, making it the perfect affordable day out for the whole family to enjoy. Children can enjoy a three-course meal, choosing from classic dishes such as meatballs in tomato sauce, penne bolognese and chocolate profiteroles.
Known for its lively, family-friendly atmosphere, Vittoria on the Walk serves hearty Italian classics made with carefully sourced ingredients from both Italy and Scotland. The perfect spot for relaxed family dining, guests can tuck into delicious wood-fired pizzas, handmade authentic pasta, paired with an extensive wine list.
See their website for more information: vittoriarestaurant.com
Enjoy 25% off at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh is helping families enjoy an affordable day out in the city this February with an exclusive offer for local residents. From now until Thursday 26th February, guests with an EH postcode can enjoy 25% off food and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as 25% off select retail items, making it easier for families to dine out together without stretching the budget.
Whether taking a break from exploring the city or simply treating the kids during a day out, this exclusive discount is available Sunday-Friday, all day. To redeem the offer, guests simply need to mention the discount and provide proof of EH residency, such as a driving licence or utility bill.
To book your table, please visit cafe.hardrock.com
Party 'Mardi Gras' style at Popeyes Dundee
Popeyes® UK is bringing some Mardi Gras excitement to Dundee with the opening of its brand-new restaurant at Kingsway West Retail Park on Friday 13th February at 11am, offering families the perfect excuse for a fun and flavour-packed day out.
To celebrate, the first four people on foot and the first four vehicles in the Park & Serve bays will win free Deluxe Sandwiches for a year, with queues expected to open from 9am. Alongside the buzz of a major new restaurant launch, there will be activities taking place across opening weekend for the whole family to enjoy, making it a must-visit outing for fried chicken fans across the Dundee area
To find out more about the opening, please visit: popeyesuk.com
Indulge in a world of flavour at Cosmo Aberdeen
Families in Aberdeen looking for a stress-free and affordable meal out can head to COSMO, where a world of flavours awaits under one roof. Diners can enjoy everything from freshly prepared Chinese stir-fries and Japanese sushi to Southeast Asian curries and Mediterranean favourites, with chefs cooking dishes live for a fun and interactive dining experience.
The all-you-can-eat buffet offers plenty of choice to suit even the fussiest eaters. Plus, children under 155cm dine for just £8.99 Monday to Thursday at lunchtime, making it a great-value family treat.
To book your table, please visit: www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk
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From the World of Illusions to dazzling jellyfish lanterns, Scotland is packed with unforgettable adventures for the whole family to enjoy!
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