The Top 10 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

Edinburgh is not only Scotland's capital but also a playground for families, offering countless experiences that combine fun, education, and unique Scottish culture. Below are the top 10 family-friendly activities in Edinburgh, featuring extensive descriptions to help families make the most of their visit.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Positioned atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city's skyline and offers families a rich historical experience. The castle hosts Scotland’s crown jewels and the historic Stone of Destiny. Children can explore the ancient halls, gaze at the massive cannons, and participate in interactive exhibits that bring the castle’s vibrant history to life. Regular reenactments and children's tours are designed to captivate younger visitors, making the castle not just a visual spectacle but also an educational journey through Scotland’s past.

Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK

Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM

Tickets: Adults £17.50, Children £10.50 (check website for most up to date prices)

Website: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot

Review: "Absolutely fascinating for all ages, with captivating views and rich history at every turn." - Jane D., TripAdvisor

Advance Booking: Recommended to avoid long queues

2. Dynamic Earth

This immersive science center takes visitors back in time to witness the Earth's evolutionary story, from the Big Bang to modern day. Families can experience a tropical rainforest, touch a real iceberg, and watch a volcano erupt. Dynamic Earth uses state-of-the-art technology and interactive exhibits to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for children, making it an educational adventure that sparks curiosity about the natural world.

Location: Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8AS, UK

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Tickets: Adults £15.95, Children £9.95 (check website for up to date prices)

Website: https://www.dynamicearth.co.uk

Review: "Engaging and thought-provoking, perfect for families interested in science and nature." - Oliver L., Google Reviews

Advance Booking: Advised during peak tourist seasons

3. The Royal Edinburgh Zoo

Located just outside the city centre, Edinburgh Zoo is home to over 1,000 rare and endangered animals, including the UK's only giant pandas and koalas. The zoo's layout encourages exploration and learning, with habitats designed to mimic the animals' natural environments. The daily penguin parade is a highlight, particularly endearing to younger children, while educational talks and feeding times offer insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts.

Location: 134 Corstorphine Rd, Edinburgh EH12 6TS, UK

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Tickets: Adults £19.95, Children £11.25 (check website for up to date prices)

Website: https://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

Review: "Fantastic day out with diverse species and engaging activities for kids." - Michelle R., TripAdvisor

Advance Booking: Highly recommended, especially for special animal encounters

4. Museum of Childhood

Edinburgh's Museum of Childhood is a delightful exploration of childhoods past and present. The museum displays a vast collection of toys, games, and childhood memorabilia, offering a nostalgic journey for adults and a fun discovery for kids. Interactive exhibits allow children to play with traditional toys and engage in dress-up, while special workshops and storytelling sessions are held regularly to enhance the experience.

Location: 42 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TG, UK

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tickets: Free entry

Website: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/museum-childhood

Review: "A magical step back in time. Our kids loved the interactive play areas!" - Emily W., Google Reviews

Advance Booking: Not necessary

5. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Situated near Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions provides a fascinating experience with five floors filled with optical illusions, mirror mazes, and a vortex tunnel. The venue's rooftop terrace offers stunning views of Edinburgh, making it a perfect spot for family photos. The exhibits are both educational and entertaining, exploring aspects of optical illusions, light physics, and visual perception that fascinate visitors of all ages.

Location: Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2ND, UK

Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Tickets: Adults £16.00, Children £12.00

Website: https://www.camera-obscura.co.uk

Review: "Endless fun and fascination at every turn. The illusions captivated the whole family!" - Tom H., TripAdvisor

Advance Booking: Advised, especially during weekends and holidays

6. Gorgie City Farm

Gorgie City Farm offers a charming slice of rural life right in the heart of Edinburgh. It's a fantastic opportunity for children to interact with farm animals and learn about urban agriculture. The farm features a variety of animals including pigs, sheep, and chickens. Kids can participate in feeding activities or enjoy the playground. The farm also emphasizes sustainability and teaches young visitors about farming practices through engaging, hands-on activities.

Location: 51 Gorgie Road, Edinburgh EH11 2LA, UK

Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Tickets: Free entry, donations appreciated

Website: https://www.lovegorgiefarm.org.uk

Review: "A perfect city farm experience with lots of hands-on activities for kids." - Lisa M., Google Reviews

Advance Booking: Not necessary

7. The Scottish National Gallery

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, the Scottish National Gallery showcases a vast array of Scottish and international art ranging from the Renaissance to the late 19th century. For families, the gallery offers specialized activities such as art workshops and gallery trails designed to make art accessible and engaging for children. The gallery's stunning architecture and central location make it a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, ideal for inspiring young minds.

Location: The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL, UK

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Thursdays until 7:00 PM

Tickets: Free entry

Website: https://www.nationalgalleries.org

Review: "An enriching experience that brought art to life for our children." - Sarah N., TripAdvisor

Advance Booking: Not necessary for general admission, but some special exhibits and events may require booking.

8. Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat

Holyrood Park is a royal park in the heart of the city, encompassing 650 acres of wild landscape. Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano, is the main attraction and offers relatively easy trails that lead to the summit, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh. It's an excellent adventure for families looking for a nature escape within the city. The park also has several smaller hills, lochs, and stony ridges to explore.

Location: Queen's Drive, Edinburgh EH8 8HG, UK

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Tickets: Free entry

Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/holyrood-park/

Review: "A must-do for families—great hiking, stunning views, and lots of nature." - Robert J., TripAdvisor

Advance Booking: Not required

9. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Just a mile from the city center, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers a tranquil oasis with over 70 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. The gardens feature a variety of plant collections, glasshouses, and themed gardens such as the Chinese Hillside and the Rock Garden. For children, the garden offers educational tours and seasonal events that explore plant life and environmental conservation.

Location: Arboretum Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, UK

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tickets: Free entry to the gardens; a small fee applies to enter the glasshouses

Website: https://www.rbge.org.uk

Review: "A serene and educational escape from the city hustle. Our kids loved the interactive plant trails!" - Emily F., Google Reviews

Advance Booking: Not required for the garden, but tickets for special events should be booked in advance.

10. Scottish Storytelling Centre

Immerse your family in the rich tradition of Scottish storytelling at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, located on the historic Royal Mile. This vibrant cultural venue offers a variety of live performances, storytelling sessions, and interactive workshops that are perfect for children and adults alike. The centre is dedicated to preserving Scotland's oral heritage and offers a compelling insight into the myths, legends, and folktales that are woven into the fabric of Scottish culture.

This venue not only provides entertainment but also educates and connects visitors with Scotland's cultural heritage through the art of storytelling.

Location: 43-45 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SR, UK

Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Tickets: Prices vary depending on the event; some exhibitions and storytelling sessions are free

Website: https://www.scottishstorytellingcentre.com

Review: "A fantastic place that brings stories to life. Great for families looking to experience something uniquely Scottish." - Fiona M., TripAdvisor

Advance Booking: Recommended

Edinburgh is a city that thrives with activities suitable for children and families, blending educational experiences with fun and interactive engagement. Each of these ten activities offers a unique insight into the city's rich cultural, historical, and scientific heritage. Whether exploring the ancient Edinburgh Castle, delving into the natural world at the Dynamic Earth, or enjoying a serene day out at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh provides a plethora of opportunities to create lasting memories for families.

These carefully selected destinations not only highlight the best of what Edinburgh has to offer but also cater to the diverse interests of children, from toddlers to teens, making the city an ideal choice for family vacations. The rich descriptions provided aim to assist families in planning their trips effectively, ensuring that each visit is as enjoyable and enriching as possible.

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Sources:

Edinburgh Official Tourism Sites, TripAdvisor, Time Out Edinburgh