HOTEL REVIEW
Crieff Hydro Resort, Perthshire, UK
Victorian grandeur meets full‑on family fun in the heart of Scotland
Set within the sprawling grounds of a grand 19th-century spa hotel and surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Perthshire countryside, Crieff Hydro is the perfect destination for active families seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and heritage charm.
Why families love this stay
- Family-friendly hotel rooms and self-catering lodgings
- Free daily supervised childcare (2–12 years old)
- Variety of dining options
- Indoor leisure facilities and entertainment
- Outdoor sports and activities
- Adventure playground
Accommodation
Crieff Hydro offers a wide range of accommodation options tailored to suit families of all sizes and preferences. Guests can stay in the elegant main hotel, where traditional décor meets modern comfort and rooms are just steps from the heart of the resort’s amenities. Families will find plenty of room configurations choose from, such as double rooms with kids’ bunk beds tucked behind partitions, as well as larger family apartments for those who need extra space.
For guests who prefer the flexibility of self-catering, the resort also features a selection of well-equipped cabins, apartments, and lodges, all nestled across the scenic estate. There are also larger and interconnecting lodges (sleeping up to 16 people) that are ideal for group stays such as family reunions. It is worth noting that the lodges in Culcrieff Village, a quieter area of the resort ideal for those seeking peace and seclusion, are located about a 30-minute forest walk from the main hotel complex.
Facilities and Activities
There is no shortage of ways to stay entertained at Crieff Hydro, whatever the Scottish weather decides. Indoors, families watch a movie at the cinema, test their skills in the escape room, or take a dip in the large leisure centre pool. The resort also offers variety of live entertainment, ranging from magicians to fun-filled, interactive quiz nights.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Action Glen, the resort’s activity hub. Here, guests can experience adventures such as alpaca trekking, quad biking, treetop obstacle courses, and Highland safaris. Younger children will be delighted by Glen’s Adventure Park, a giant outdoor playground featuring a wooden fort, giant jumping pillows, electric Volvo diggers, mini zip lines, and plenty more to fuel their imaginations.
Kids Club
Crieff Hydro’s childcare facilities – a rarity in British hotels – give parents the chance to take a well-earned break while the kids are happily occupied. Children aged 2–12 can enjoy Big Country, the resort’s supervised play centre. The venue is large with indoor and outdoor spaces for kids to explore, including a slide and ball pit. Resort guests are offered two hours of free childcare per day, giving parents time to relax, explore, or have a quiet meal. For younger children, there’s also an unsupervised soft play area that’s safe and easy to enjoy. Teenagers and older children will love the Glen Den games zone, which is equipped with arcade games, VR headsets, and a pool table.
Dining
The resort boasts an impressive array of dining options, offering everything from elegant, sit-down meals to convenient grab-and-go fare. Many of the resort’s dining venues embrace the heritage of the hotel, creating a nostalgic atmosphere where guests can dine in the refined splendour of a bygone era.
A particular highlight is afternoon tea at the Loggia, a beautifully presented experience featuring fine teas, delicate sandwiches, and homemade cakes. Despite the refined ambiance, all restaurants and cafés warmly welcome children, making it easy for families to relax and enjoy meals together, whatever the occasion.
Location
Crieff Hydro is situated in one of Scotland’s most scenic regions, with sweeping views over the rolling Perthshire hills. The surrounding countryside offers countless walking routes and trails, perfect for family hikes in nature.
Just a short walk from the main hotel lies the quaint town of Crieff, where visitors can browse local shops, enjoy cafés and restaurants, or explore cultural attractions at a slower pace. If you want to explore further afield, cities such as Glasgow and St Andrews are just an hour’s drive from the resort.
Final Thoughts
Crieff Hydro blends historical charm with all the modern comforts and fun activities families need. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, peaceful walks in the countryside, or relaxing meals together, there’s something for everyone. The resort’s childcare facilities – a rarity in British hotels – give parents the chance to take a well-earned break while the kids are happily occupied. With flexible accommodation, a range of dining options, and well-designed facilities for children, Crieff Hydro is well set up to ensure unforgettable family holiday in the beautiful heart of Scotland.
