Oban, often hailed as the “Gateway to the Isles,” is a vibrant town on Scotland’s stunning west coast. While many families see it as a brief stopover on their way to island adventures, Oban itself is a rewarding destination with a surprising number of activities perfect for those with a few spare hours to fill. Whether you’ve missed a ferry, arrived early for your trip to Mull, or are simply visiting for the day, this guide will help you transform unexpected downtime into a memorable family exploration.
McCaig’s Tower: A View with a Climb
Dominating the Oban skyline is the iconic McCaig’s Tower. The walk up from the town centre is a short, steep ascent that takes about 10 minutes, and kids will love the mini-adventure. The panoramic view of Oban Bay and the surrounding islands from the top is spectacular. The path also passes the sculpture garden of local artist Alice Strange, adding an artistic treasure hunt to the walk. Admission is free, making it an excellent active and budget-friendly option.
Views from McCaig’s Tower over Kerrera and Mull
Oban War & Peace Museum: History for Little Explorers
The volunteer-run Oban War & Peace Museum provides a fascinating look into local history. To make the visit more interactive for children, the museum offers a quiz, which is a great way for youngsters to engage with the past in a hands-on way. Admission is free, though donations are welcome, and the museum is generally open daily from 10 am to 4 pm.
Oban War & Peace Museum – interior by M J Richardson, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Oban Chocolate Company: A Sweet Escape
The Oban Chocolate Company offers a delightful sensory experience for the whole family. You can watch chocolatiers at work through a viewing window into the factory, with interpretive panels explaining the process. The sight and smell of chocolate being made are captivating for all ages. There’s no charge to watch the chocolate-making, and the café offers a wide array of handmade chocolates, hot chocolates, and ice cream—the perfect reward after a climb up to McCaig’s Tower.
Virtual-Pano, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Rockfield Centre: A Community Hub
The Rockfield Centre is a vibrant community space with a variety of activities. The Rowan Room Community Cafe is a family-friendly spot with a dedicated “Kids’ Corner” where children can play. The centre also hosts exhibitions and workshops, so it’s worth checking their schedule for any family-friendly events.
Oban Play Park: Outdoor Fun in the Town Centre
A great place for children to burn off some energy is the Oban Play Park. The park, located near the town centre, offers a range of play equipment and is a simple, no-cost way to keep kids entertained.
Oban Golf Lounge: Indoor Putting Fun
Rainy weather is no problem at the Oban Golf Lounge, which features a state-of-the-art indoor golf simulator. This is a fantastic all-weather activity for families and golfers of all skill levels. You can book the simulator for exclusive use, creating a relaxed and private environment for your family to enjoy a modern take on a classic Scottish pastime.
Quick Shopping Stops
Oban has a number of unique, independent shops. A trip to a local sweet shop for some Scottish treats, or a browse through the gift shops for a unique souvenir, can be a fun way to spend a few minutes and get a taste of the town’s character.
Walk the Esplanade
The Oban Esplanade is a beautiful, flat walk along the waterfront. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and take in the views of the bay and the ferries coming and going. Children can enjoy watching the boats and looking for local wildlife. It’s an easy, accessible walk for all ages and a perfect way to spend a half-hour.
Take a walk along Oban’s Esplanade, have a seat eat your chip and ice cream and watch the ferries sail by.
Ganavan Sands: Sandcastles and Sea Views
Just a short drive from Oban, Ganavan Sands features beautiful sandy beaches and clear blue waters. It’s a perfect spot for building sandcastles, swimming, and taking in the excellent views of nearby islands. The beach is easily accessible, and a coastal walk to Dunbeg and Dunstaffnage Castle starts here.
Short Ferry Trip to Kerrera Island
Even with limited time, you can get a taste of island life by taking a short passenger ferry to the Isle of Kerrera. The 5-minute ferry from Gallanach is an adventure in itself for younger children. Once on the island, you can take a manageable walk to the charming Kerrera Tea Garden for homemade treats and the ruins of Gylen Castle. This “micro-adventure” allows you to experience the unique charm of the islands without committing to a full day’s outing.
Pierre-Selim Huard, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Atlantis Leisure: Splash and Soft Play
The Atlantis Leisure Centre is a fantastic all-weather facility. It has a swimming pool and an extensive soft play area called “The Lost City” for infants and primary school children. The soft play area is a padded wonderland where kids can climb and burn off energy safely. Prices are affordable, and the centre also has a rock climbing wall and an outdoor playground.
Go Bananas Soft Play
This indoor soft play centre is specifically designed for younger children. It features a two-level play frame, a ball pit, a dedicated baby room, and a Lego and reading room. Go Bananas is a great option for a quick, dedicated soft play experience, though it’s always best to check their opening hours, as they can vary.
A Few Practical Tips
- Check Opening Hours: Always verify the most current operating hours for attractions before you go.
- Embrace Flexibility: With kids, plans can change in an instant. Having a few backup indoor options in mind can be a lifesaver.
Oban is more than just a ferry terminal; it’s a destination brimming with diverse activities for families. From historical adventures to seaside fun and delicious treats, every spare hour can be filled with discovery and fun, proving that Oban is truly an unexpected gem.
