If you’re looking for things to do with kids in the Scottish Borders, or wondering about the best family days out, a visit to Jacksons at Jedburgh offers something a little different.
It’s not a theme park. It’s not soft play. It’s a real working farm – and that’s exactly why families keep coming back.
If you’re planning a day out in the area, you can also explore more ideas for things to do in the Scottish Borders through VisitScotland.
Here’s our top five reasons why families love it so much –
1. Proper Outdoor Time (That Everyone Enjoys)
There’s something special about getting outside on the farm.
No screens. No queues. Just fresh air, open space, and room to breathe.
Kids can run, explore, and be curious, while adults get a chance to slow down and enjoy being outdoors too. It’s one of the simplest, and most valuable, parts of the experience. We’ve even added benches around the farm walks and fields, so there are plenty of spots to pause, sit, and take it all in – whether that’s watching the animals, the kids playing, or just enjoying a quiet moment in the countryside.
If you’re searching for a farm visit in Scotland for families, this is exactly what people are looking for.
2. Real Animal Encounters
This isn’t a quick look over a fence.
At Jacksons at Jedburgh, families get the chance to properly connect with the animals:
- Feeding lambs
- Meeting Highland cows up close
- Spotting chickens, goats, and more
These are the moments kids talk about long after they’ve gone home – and often the reason families come back again.
You can also explore our Highland cow experience for an even closer encounter!
3. Space to Explore (Without Feeling Crowded)
One thing visitors always comment on is the space. There’s no rushing from one activity to the next. You can take your time, wander, and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace.
For parents, that means less stress. For kids, it means more freedom.
And for everyone, it makes for a much more relaxed day out.
4. Something Different from Soft Play
We all know soft play has its place… but sometimes you want something different.
A visit here offers:
- Fresh air instead of indoor noise
- Real experiences instead of structured sessions
- A day that feels a bit more meaningful
A Little Space to Play (Without It Feeling Like a Playpark)
We didn’t set out to build a traditional playpark – but we did want to capture a bit of that simple childhood magic.
So you’ll find a small play area with things like:
- A sand area – with lots of vehicles!
- Big tractor tyres to climb and crawl through
- Ride-on vehicles and diggers
- And yes… a proper tree swing
It’s not polished or over-designed, and that’s the point. And honestly… we’ve seen kids spend longer playing on the old tractor at the bottom field than they do in a full shiny playpark.
Kids can play, imagine, and explore in their own way, while parents get the chance to sit down, enjoy a cuppa, and actually relax for a minute.
If you’re looking for things to do with kids in the Scottish Borders that feel a bit more memorable, this is exactly that.
5. It’s Great for All Ages (Yes, Grandparents Too)
One of the best things about the farm is how it brings everyone together.
It’s just as enjoyable for:
- Toddlers seeing animals up close for the first time
- Older children exploring and learning
- Parents enjoying the slower pace
- Grandparents who appreciate the scenery and nostalgia of farm life
It’s a genuine family day out in the Scottish Borders, not just something for the kids.
Why Families Come Back Again (and Again)
One visit is rarely enough.
Spring brings lambs and new life.
Summer brings longer days and more time to explore.
And the Highland cows are a highlight all season long.
Every visit feels slightly different, and that’s why so many families return.
And to make it even easier, your first visit now includes a season pass.
Simply pick it up from the shop on the day, and you can come back again and again throughout the season – whether that’s to see how much the lambs have grown, revisit your favourite animals, or just enjoy another relaxed day on the farm. It’s one visit… that turns into many.
Plan Your Visit to Jacksons at Jedburgh
If you’re planning a family day out in the Scottish Borders, this is one to add to your list.
Book your visit now here.
We’d love to welcome you to the farm!
Make a Day of It in Jedburgh
While you’re here, it’s well worth exploring the local area too.
Jedburgh has plenty of independent shops, cafés, and places to wander – making it easy to turn your visit into a full day out in the Scottish Borders.
