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Things to do in Edinburgh with kids, a family-friendly adventure guide
Edinburgh feels like a real-life fairy tale, with its castles, cobbled streets and stunning views. It’s the ultimate place for a family adventure, and kids love it! Whether it’s raining or shining, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Edinburgh with kids. This guide will help you explore the best indoor and outdoor activities that will keep everyone entertained and smiling.
1. National Museum of Scotland: where curiosity comes alive
The National Museum of Scotland is like a giant playground for the mind! Here, kids can explore everything from dinosaur skeletons to ancient artifacts. The museum’s three floors of interactive galleries and exhibits will have them laughing and learning at the same time. And don’t forget to check out the rooftop terrace for some fantastic views of the city—ideal for that family selfie!
- Location: Chambers St, Edinburgh
- Price: Free entry
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 17:00
2. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions: see beyond reality
At Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, prepare for an afternoon filled with giggles and gasps! This place is packed with mind-bending optical illusions and fun tricks that will leave everyone amazed, especially your kids. They’ll love trying to figure out how everything works. Perfect for curious little minds!
And the Camera Obscura itself? Using natural sunlight and intricate reflections, it ingeniously projects a real-time image of Edinburgh onto a table. Our expert guide will show you and your wee ones all the city’s most iconic landmarks from above. And don’t forget to check out the stunning views from the rooftop view.
- Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh
- Price: Adults £18.50, Children (5-15) £14.50
- Opening Hours:
- Mon – Thu: 9:30 – 19:30
- Fri & Sun: 9:30 – 21:00
- Sat: 9 AM – 22:00
3. Edinburgh Castle: a royal adventure awaits
No trip to Edinburgh is complete without visiting its famous castle. Edinburgh Castle is steeped in history and has plenty of interesting stories to tell. Kids will love exploring the castle grounds, checking out the Crown Jewels, and imagining what life was like for the kings and queens that called this place home. And don’t miss the one o’clock gun—just be ready for a loud bang!
- Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh
- Price: Adults £19.50, Children (5-15) £11.50, combination tickets including Edinburgh Castle are available to buy
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30 to 17:00 (last admission at 16:00)
4. Museum of Childhood: A blast from the past
Take a stroll down memory lane at the Museum of Childhood. This charming spot showcases toys and games from different eras. It’ll delight both kids and adults.
Your little ones will love seeing what children played with in the past—who knew vintage toys could be so amusing? This is definitely one of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids, especially if your children love playing (what children don’t?!) or are interested in how things were in centuries gone.
- Location: 42 High St, Edinburgh
- Price: Free entry
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 17:00 (closed Tuesdays)
Outdoor escapades in Edinburgh: fun in the fresh air
When the sun shines (or even when it doesn’t), Edinburgh’s parks and outdoor spaces beckon. Here are some outdoor things to do in Edinburgh with kids.
5. Arthur’s Seat: hike to new heights
Ready for an adventure? Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano that offers an easy hike with breathtaking views at the top. It’s a great way to get some fresh air while enjoying nature. Pack a picnic and celebrate your summit victory (with the obligatory snack bag at the ready for hungry hikers) while taking in the spectacular scenery.
- Location: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh
- Price: Free entry
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
6. Dean Village: a picturesque stroll
Dean Village is a hidden gem right in the heart of Edinburgh. With its charming buildings and peaceful river, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk with your family. The kids can run around while you enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Don’t forget your camera; this place is Instagram-worthy!
- Location: Near Water of Leith Walkway
- Price: Free entry
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
7. Gorgie City Farm: meet some furry friends
Gorgie City Farm is where city life meets country charm. Your little ones can meet all sorts of animals—from fluffy sheep to cheeky chickens. It’s a hands-on experience that teaches children about farming while letting them interact with friendly animals.
Plus, it’s free to enter (donations appreciated), making it an affordable family outing!
- Location: 51 Gorgie Rd, Edinburgh
- Price: Free entry (donations welcome)
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 16:00
Day Trips from Edinburgh: adventures beyond the city
As you can see, there are absolutely loads of brilliant things to do in Edinburgh with kids! But if you’re up for some exploration outside of the city, there are fantastic day trips that your family will love.
8. Loch Ness: search for Nessie!
Loch Ness isn’t just famous for its monster; it’s also one of Scotland’s most attractive spots. Head up north for a Loch Ness day trip and to go on a monster hunt. Keep your eyes peeled for Nessie! This exciting adventure combines spectacular scenery with a bit of mystery—perfect for sparking your child’s imagination!
- Location: Approximately 3 hours from Edinburgh by car
- Price: the loch and surrounding is free to visit
9. Inchcolm Island: A seaside escape
Inchcolm Island is a delightful family-friendly getaway where you can spot seals lounging on rocks and explore historic ruins. The island’s natural beauty makes it perfect for family walks and picnics. Bring your binoculars if you want to catch those seals napping from afar!
- Location: Accessible by ferry from South Queensferry
- Price: Ferry prices vary; typically around £15 for adults and £10 for children.
Discover Edinburgh’s magic
Edinburgh is bursting with fun activities that cater to families looking for adventure and excitement. Whether you want to visit fascinating museums or enjoy nature, there’s something for everyone in this magical city. So gather your family, pack your sense of wonder (and maybe some snacks), and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Edinburgh!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Edinburgh boasts fantastic playgrounds like Victoria Park, which features a large play structure, and Inverleith Park, known for its extensive green space. Leith Links offers a pirate ship play area, while Saughton Park has a zip wire and pleasing gardens. Each playground provides a fun and safe environment for kids to explore and play.
The King’s Theatre and Festival Theatre host a variety of family-friendly performances, including musicals and pantomimes. The Edinburgh Playhouse also features kid-friendly shows from time to time. Check their schedules for upcoming performances that cater to younger audiences.
Yes, there are!
- The Elephant House is great for families and is famous for its Harry Potter connection.
- Mamma’s Pizza serves delicious pizzas in a casual setting.
- BrewDog offers a relaxed atmosphere with a menu for both kids and adults.
These spots are perfect for refuelling after a day of exploring.
- A stay of 2-3 days is ideal for exploring the main sights without feeling rushed. This allows time for playground visits, museums, and parks. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to fit in extra activities, consider extending your trip to 4 days for a more relaxed experience.