The summer holidays are here… and if you’re anything like us, you’re already hearing the words:
“What are we doing today?”
If you’re looking for summer kids activities in the Scottish Borders, Jacksons at Jedburgh offers something a little different. If you’re planning a few days exploring the area, you’ll also find plenty of inspiration on the VisitScotland Scottish Borders guide.
We’re not a theme park.
We’re not soft play.
We’re a real working family farm where children can run, explore, meet animals and make memories, while grown-ups slow down with a coffee, an ice cream or a picnic overlooking the fields.
Just over an hour from both Edinburgh and Newcastle, Jacksons is the perfect place to spend a relaxed summer’s day together.
Meet Scotland’s Famous Highland Cows
No visit to Jacksons would be complete without meeting our Highland cows.
Our Highland Cow Experience has become one of the most popular family experiences in the Scottish Borders.
Your experience begins with a scenic trailer ride through the farm before heading into the fields to meet our beautiful Highland cows and calves.
There’s plenty of time for photographs, asking questions and simply enjoying being close to these gentle giants.
Back at the yard you’ll head into the shed where you’ll have the chance to feed and stroke some of our younger Highland cattle before exploring the rest of the farm.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or introducing friends and family to one of Scotland’s most iconic animals, it’s an experience people remember long after they’ve gone home.
Meet This Summer’s Animals
Summer is one of our favourite times of year around the farm.
The Highland cows are looking magnificent, our cheeky piglets are keeping everyone entertained and the goats are as curious as ever.
Alongside them you’ll also meet:
- Sheep
- Chickens
- Ducks
- Calves
- And plenty of other friendly farm animals
Because Jacksons is a real working farm, every visit feels slightly different depending on what’s happening around the farm. Find out more about our animals here.
More Than Just Animals
There’s plenty to keep children busy between animal encounters.
Climb aboard the tractor.
Explore the play area.
Discover the remains of the Roman fort hidden within the farm.
Watch farming happening around you.
See wildlife around the fields.
Or simply enjoy having the freedom to run, climb and explore.
It’s the kind of outdoor play many of us remember from our own childhoods.
Coffee for You… Ice Cream for Them
One of the things visitors tell us they love most is the relaxed pace.
Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch overlooking the countryside, or treat yourselves to a coffee and an ice cream from our farm shop.
There are benches dotted around the farm where you can sit back while the children continue exploring.
Sometimes the simplest afternoons become the most memorable ones.
Why Families Keep Coming Back
One thing many visitors don’t realise is that your farm admission includes return visits on foot for the rest of the season.
That means you can come back throughout the summer holidays to see how the animals have grown, meet new arrivals and enjoy another peaceful afternoon outdoors.
Many local families use Jacksons as somewhere to meet friends during the holidays, giving the children space to play while the adults catch up over a coffee.
It’s fantastic value and every visit feels a little different.
A Relaxed Day Out for Every Family
No two families are the same, and no two visits are either.
Whether you’ve got toddlers who love feeding animals, older children fascinated by tractors, grandparents joining you for the day or family members with additional needs, we want everyone to feel welcome.
As parents of children with additional needs ourselves, we understand that a little reassurance before your visit can make all the difference. If there’s anything we can do to make your day easier, please don’t hesitate to get in touch before you visit.
Why Choose Jacksons This Summer?
Summer at Jacksons isn’t about rushing from one activity to the next.
It’s about children making friends while parents finish a coffee.
It’s about piglets causing mischief.
It’s about Highland cows wandering over to say hello.
It’s about muddy boots, fresh air and a family day that feels refreshingly simple.
If you’re looking for a slower, more authentic summer day out in the Scottish Borders, we’d love to welcome you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best summer kids activities in the Scottish Borders?
If you’re looking for a relaxed outdoor family day, Jacksons offers Highland Cow Experiences, friendly farm animals, outdoor play, tractors, walking trails and plenty of space to explore.
Is Jacksons suitable for toddlers?
Absolutely. Many of our younger visitors love feeding the animals, climbing on the tractor and exploring the farm at their own pace.
How long should we allow for a visit?
Most families spend between two and four hours with us, although you’re very welcome to stay longer.
Can we bring a picnic?
Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own picnic or enjoy refreshments from our farm shop, including tea, coffee and ice cream.
Do tickets include return visits?
Yes. Farm admission includes return visits on foot for the rest of the season, making Jacksons fantastic value throughout the summer holidays.
What happens if it rains?
This is Scotland after all! We always recommend bringing waterproofs just in case. Some of our best family memories involve puddles, muddy boots and a little bit of rain.
Plan Your Summer Visit
If you’re searching for summer kids activities in the Scottish Borders, we’d love to welcome you to the farm.
Come and meet the Highland cows.
Say hello to the piglets.
Bring a picnic.
Enjoy an ice cream.
Let the children explore.
And make some wonderful summer memories together.
Book your summer visit today.
