9 Things To Do In Oban With Kids

Why Visit Oban With Kids?

Oban is located on the West Coast of Scotland. It is the major jumping off point for travelling to the Western Islands. The closest larger island is the Isle of Mull. However you can also take ferries from Oban to Lismore, Coll, Tiree and even Barra (where you can access the Hebridean Islands). Although Oban is a small town it’s still a popular destination. There are plenty of supermarkets and shops if you are staying locally and need to stock up. There is also plenty to do in the surrounding area, not just the town itself. It’s easy to drive to Oban, but it’s also possible to arrive by train along the Glasgow line. Oban train station is located across from the ferry terminal. However, this is just a short walk to the centre of the town of Oban. It’s definitely easy to explore Oban with kids.

There are various walks around the area, one of the most accessible from Oban town centre is to Pulpit Hill looking over the town. It’s a short walk, but a spectacular view.

Eating and Drinking In Oban

Oban is also known as the seafood capital of Scotland. If you’re lucky you can watch fisherman bringing in their catch. There are plenty of great seafood restaurants open in the summer around the town! If you want somewhere a bit cheaper with simple child friendly food, then head to the Sir Walter Scott beside the ferry terminal. It’s a Wetherspoons chain, so cheap and cheerful!

Even if you have a busy schedule I’d recommend some time to wander around the centre of Oban. A spot of people watching whilst you enjoy an ice cream from the Pokey Hat! Adults may also enjoy a look around Oban distillery. Tours can be booked for anyone aged 8+ for 1 hour tours. However, it can be quite boring for kids, so think whether it’s worth taking kids before booking!

Seal Boat Trips, Oban

One of the top things to do on sunny days in Oban is a boat trip from this seaside town. There are several different boat trips available to choose from. If you walk along the bay you will find boards next to the departure points with times and prices.  Most boat tours are around the nearby islands to look at seals. But if you’re lucky, perhaps you will see an otter or sea eagle! This is a fun way to get out on the water with younger children, with most boat trips only being around 2 hours long.  It’s definitely a fun activity on a warm summer day when the sun is shining!

Soft Play At Oban Leisure Centre

Younger children will particularly enjoy some down time at the soft play at Atlantis Leisure Centre.  It’s great for wet weather days or the perfect place to let little ones run off some steam.  The soft play is suitable for children aged 0-primary age. In 2024 it costs £4.60 for over 3’s for 1 hour or £3.50 for under 3’s, under 1’s go free.

Visit McCaig’s Tower

McCaigs Tower was erected in 1897 by John Stuart McCaig as a lasting monument to his family. He also hoped it would be a way to provide work for local stonemasons over the winter period.  Unfortunately he died of a heart attack in 1902 before it could be completed. He had hoped to include a grand design similar to Greek and Roman architecture with a museum and art gallery. He had plans to include statues of himself, siblings and their parents within the gallery. Only the outer walls were completed and the inside is now a garden that looks out to the islands of Kerrera, Lismore and Mull.

McCaig did leave money in his will for the upkeep of the building. But unfortunately his will was disputed by his heirs and this section was removed. 

First time visitors to Oban will definitely want to visit the tower. Not just for the history, but for the great views over Oban harbour and surrounding islands.

Ocean Explorer Centre

The Ocean Explorer Centre is located on the Dunstaffnage peninsula just 5 minutes drive from Oban.  It is the visitor centre for the Scottish Association of Marine Science (SAMS) and created by marine biologists.  It’s a small space filled with lots of fun and educational activities. There is also a cafe that is well used by visitors and locals alike.  In the centre you can learn about arctic science, robots and ocean currents. Explore the sea under the pontoon or investigate life in a drop of sea water. Take a look at earth via the 3D globe and watch short films on marine science topics. It’s a great place to discover more about our marine worlds and how to protect them. I’d say it’s good for children and adults of all ages!

Dunstaffnage Castle

Beside the Ocean Explorer Centre is Dunstaffnage Castle, a small castle that has seen many wars. It was one of the first stone built castles in Scotland. The location was important as it protected the seaward entrance of the Firth of Lorn and Loch Etive into the Pass of Brander.  The castle was built before 1240 by Duncan MacDougall, grandson of Somerled, ‘the King of the Isles’. There was quite a struggle between mainland Scotland and Norway for the ownership of the Western Isles. However, the Scots won control of the region in 1266. With Robert the Bruce gaining control of the castle in 1308.

The castle was also the temporary lodging of Flora MacDonald after she was arrested for aiding Bonnie Prince Charlie. She was then sent down to the Tower of London.

Dunollie Castle and Museum 

Just a mile North of Oban are the ruins of Dunollie Castle. It’s thought to date back to the 11th century, although some parts may be even older.  The castle was probably built by Ewan MacDougall, grandson of Somerled.  The remains of the castle seen today are probably from later, around the 1400’s. When Robert the Bruce took control of the region the lands were removed from Clan MacDougall. The lands were later returned and then removed again for supporting the Jacobite Cause in 1715. They were finally returned after the failed Jacobite uprising in 1745. By this time the castle was in ruins. So the 23rd clan chief, Alexander MacDougall, built the 1745 house and later an extension, Dunollie House, was added. 

Isle of Kerrera – Oban With Kids

The Isle of Kerrera is a small island just South of Oban. It’s the perfect place to add to your list of day trips in the area. Catch the passenger only ferry, cars can only be taken across by islanders.  The island is small, but there is plenty to do! There are good hikes across the middle of the island or along the road toward Gylen castle. You can also pop into the tea shop near the castle. Don’t miss a visit to one of the islands beaches and ice cream from the self serve farm shop. 

Ganavan Sands

Int he summer months Ganavan Sands is a popular place.  There is a little street parking and a larger car park that can get very busy. However, if you arrive early to get parked up, then you will enjoy visiting this beautiful beach. It’s just a short drive from Oban itself.

Sea Kayak Experience Trip

If you have older children that can swim, then consider a sea kayak trip! Children aged 12+ can take part in half day trips with Sea Kayak Oban. But even children aged 8+ can join in with the family experience trips.  This is suitable for beginners, where the experts will show you how to control the kayak and then take you out along the coastline. You will get to visit a remote beach for lunch.

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