The summer holidays always seem to arrive with a mixture of excitement and panic.
The excitement comes from having more time together.
The panic usually arrives a few days later when someone asks…
“What are we doing today?”
Usually before breakfast.
If you’re looking for things to do with kids in the Scottish Borders this summer, you’re spoiled for choice. From meeting Highland cows and exploring a real working farm to Roman history, woodland adventures and coastal days out, there’s something for every family.
We might be a tiny bit biased because one of our favourite places just happens to be our own farm… but one of the best things about living in the Scottish Borders is having so many wonderful family days out right on our doorstep. So whilst you’ll spot Jacksons a few times in this list, we’ve also included some other local favourites that are well worth adding to your summer holiday plans.
Here are ten of our favourite ways to make summer memories in the Scottish Borders.
1. Meet Scotland’s Most Famous Highland Cows
If there is one animal everyone wants to meet when they visit Scotland, it’s the Highland cow.
At Jacksons at Jedburgh, our Highland cows have become the stars of the farm. Visitors travel from across Scotland – and often much further – to spend time with these gentle giants.
Join one of our Highland Cow Experiences and you’ll climb aboard the trailer for a scenic ride across the farm before meeting the cows and calves in the field. Afterwards, you’ll head into the shed where you can get even closer to some of our younger Highland cattle, feeding them and learning more about one of Scotland’s most iconic breeds.
If you’re lucky, you might even meet Bonnie, our bottle-reared Highland cow, who has become a firm favourite with visitors.
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2. Visit a Real Working Farm
Jacksons isn’t a farm-themed attraction.
It’s a real working family farm, and that’s exactly what makes every visit different.
Meet curious goats, mischievous piglets, sheep, chickens, ducks and Highland cows, while learning where food comes from and what life on a Scottish farm is really like.
One day you might see Fenwick moving sheep. The next there could be newly hatched chicks around the farmhouse or piglets exploring their pen for the very first time.
If your children love animals, another brilliant place to visit is Bird Gardens Scotland in Oxton, where you’ll discover an amazing collection of birds from around the world, and a relaxed atmosphere that puts everyone at ease.
3. Climb on a Tractor and See Farming in Action
For many children, tractors are every bit as exciting as the animals.
One of the most popular spots on the farm is our old tractor, where little imaginations quickly take over.
We’ve honestly seen children spend longer playing on it than they do in some shiny playparks.
Because Jacksons is a working farm, there’s also every chance you’ll see real farming happening during your visit. From moving livestock to checking fields, no two visits are ever quite the same.
4. Explore the Great Outdoors at Harestanes
If your family enjoys outdoor adventures, Harestanes Countryside Visitor Centre is well worth a visit.
With woodland walks, play areas, sculptures and plenty of space to run around, it’s another fantastic Scottish Borders destination for burning off some holiday energy.
It’s just up the road, and the perfect complement to a day on the farm.
Some of the best summer memories don’t cost anything.
Pack a picnic, grab a blanket and enjoy lunch surrounded by beautiful Scottish Borders countryside.
Whether it’s here at Jacksons, beside the river at St Boswells, amongst the trees at Harestanes or in one of the many parks across the Borders, there are countless places to simply slow down and enjoy time together.
If you’d rather travel light, pop into our farm shop for a tea, coffee or an ice cream before finding one of our benches overlooking the fields.
Sometimes doing very little turns out to be the highlight of the day.
5. Pack a Picnic and Slow Down
Some of the best summer memories don’t cost anything.
Pack a picnic, grab a blanket and enjoy lunch surrounded by beautiful Scottish Borders countryside.
Whether it’s here at Jacksons, beside the river at St Boswells, amongst the trees at Harestanes or in one of the many parks across the Borders, there are countless places to simply slow down and enjoy time together.
If you’d rather travel light, pop into our farm shop for a tea, coffee or an ice cream before finding one of our benches overlooking the fields.
Sometimes doing very little turns out to be the highlight of the day. Watching the children make friends, listening to the birds, soaking up the sunshine and realising nobody has asked for a screen in the last hour… that’s what summer holidays should be about.
6. Step Back in Time at Trimontium Museum
Did you know the Scottish Borders is full of fascinating Roman history?
The Trimontium Museum in Melrose brings the story of the Romans in Scotland to life through interactive exhibits and family-friendly displays.
Back at Jacksons, you’ll even find the remains of an old Roman fort tucked away on the farm, adding another little piece of history to your walk.
7. Head to the Coast and Spot Puffins
Fancy a change of scenery?
The beautiful fishing village of St Abbs makes a fantastic family day out.
Depending on the time of year, you might spot puffins nesting along the cliffs, explore rock pools, wander around the harbour or simply enjoy an ice cream while taking in the sea views.
8. Explore Bowhill House & Country Estate
Another wonderful family destination is Bowhill House & Country Estate near Selkirk.
Its play area feels wonderfully natural, with plenty of opportunities for imaginative play rather than brightly coloured plastic equipment.
Even better, much of it sits beneath mature trees, making it a lovely shaded spot on warmer summer days.
9. Go Out for Ice Cream
Summer holidays and ice cream go hand in hand!
There are some fantastic places across the Borders to grab a cone before finding somewhere scenic to enjoy it.
One of our favourites is picking up an ice cream at Simply Delicious in Melrose before wandering into the beautiful Harmony Garden Orchard (free to enter), cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. It’s a bit of a local secret and never too busy!
Or, if you’re already visiting Jacksons, simply grab an ice cream from the farm shop and watch the children play while you enjoy five peaceful minutes with a coffee.
10. Slow Down and Make Some Memories
The very best days out rarely happen because everything went perfectly. They’re the ones where wellies get muddy.
Someone finds a feather they’re determined to take home. The children disappear onto the tree swing. The goats decide they’re helping.
And everyone gets home a little tired, smelling faintly of sunscreen and fresh air.
That’s what summer on the farm is all about.
Not rushing.
Not ticking boxes.
Just spending time together.
Why Families Love Jacksons in Summer
Summer at Jacksons isn’t about rides, flashing lights or packed schedules.
It’s about fresh Borders air, friendly animals, outdoor adventures and giving children the freedom to explore.
Whether you’re visiting from the Scottish Borders, Edinburgh, Newcastle or further afield, it’s the sort of place where children make memories and grown-ups get the chance to slow down for a while.
Every family is different, and we’re always happy to chat before your visit if there’s anything we can do to make your day easier or more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do with kids in the Scottish Borders?
The Scottish Borders is packed with family-friendly attractions including Jacksons at Jedburgh, Harestanes Countryside Visitor Centre, Bird Gardens Scotland, Bowhill House & Country Estate, Trimontium Museum and the beautiful coastline at St Abbs.
Where can you meet Highland cows in Scotland?
At Jacksons at Jedburgh you can meet Highland cows on our family farm or book one of our Highland Cow Experiences to get even closer and learn all about this iconic Scottish breed.
Is Jacksons suitable for toddlers?
Absolutely. Toddlers love meeting the animals, climbing on the tractor, watching the piglets, digging in the sand and exploring the farm at their own pace.
Can you spend a whole day at Jacksons?
Yes. Most families spend several hours exploring the farm, meeting the animals, enjoying the play area, having a picnic and relaxing with a coffee or ice cream.
What happens if it rains?
It’s Scotland – we always recommend bringing waterproofs just in case! Many of our favourite family memories involve muddy puddles, fresh air and embracing whatever the Scottish weather decides to do.
Where Will Your Summer Adventure Begin?
Whether you’re planning a full family day out, looking for somewhere to meet friends during the school holidays or simply wanting to escape the screens for a few hours, we’d love to welcome you to Jacksons.
Come and meet the Highland cows, say hello to the piglets, enjoy a coffee overlooking the fields and make a few summer memories of your own.
