Crannog

Ancient lake dwellings don't come much more atmospheric than this reconstructed Iron Age crannog on Loch Tay. Built on stilts over the water just as their 2,500-year-old predecessors were, this faithful replica gives you a proper sense of how Scottish families lived when Romans were still eyeing up Britain. You can walk inside the thatched roundhouse and handle replica tools, pottery and weapons that archaeologists have uncovered from the loch bed.

History buffs will love the hands-on approach here - this isn't just looking at dusty displays behind glass. Kids get to try grinding grain, starting fires with flint and steel, and learning about Iron Age daily life from costumed interpreters who know their stuff. The whole experience takes about an hour, though you could easily spend longer if the weather's kind and you fancy exploring the shoreline.

From Killin, it's a short drive along the loch's northern shore. The crannog works brilliantly as part of a Highland holiday based at somewhere like Loch Tay Highland Lodges or Tummel Valley Holiday Park. After all that ancient history, the kids will appreciate getting back to modern comforts - and parents will fancy a proper cup of tea.