Five Sisters Zoo

If you’re looking for a proper day out that doesn’t cost a fortune, Five Sisters Zoo in West Calder punches well above its weight. It’s compact enough that you can actually see everything without your legs giving up on you, and the animal encounters feel genuinely up close rather than through a fence half a mile away. The informative talks from staff are worth timing your visit around — they clearly know their animals and it shows. Pack a picnic, there are tables on site, and parking is easy enough that you won’t waste the first hour of your day stressed out. Families with kids of all ages keep coming back, which tells you everything you need to know.