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26 Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids (Free Options)

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Edinburgh has a whole host of family-friendly attractions and things to do. Parks for play time, beaches to bathe at, castles to explore and a few more modern surprises making it a great city to visit regardless of your age. From interesting history to gory horror, outdoor adventures to family-friendly restaurants, this guide details the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids. 

Fun Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids. 

1. edinburgh castle with kids.

Edinburgh Castle is not only essential for understanding the history of Edinburgh, but it is absolutely brilliant for families.

Eking through all the nooks and crannies is like one giant history lesson but much more fun than school.

Castle From The Vennel Edinburgh_

→ Read Next | Where to Park in Edinburgh

Highlights include the Scottish Crown Jewels and the mystical Stone of Destiny. Adding a splash of colour are actors in period garb. Bang on one o’clock the famous gun salute sorts out the locals from visitors. Beware! 

Edinburgh Castle is not cheap! 

Regardless, we try to take our two wee girls there every year and always find something new or a different spin on things. → Pro tip: Buy a Historic Scotland pass; you’ll recoup the investment visiting a few sights around the city/country. Bring a picnic to save money, though we thoroughly recommend investing in one of their scones!

Young girl at Edinburgh Castle Guns

2. Enjoy the Free Acts on The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is around about 1.81km, starting at Edinburgh Castle and running all the way down to the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood Park. All year round there are free acts including magicians, musicians, artists and bagpipers who you can tip if you enjoy. The Royal Mile show really ramps up in August when the Edinburgh Festival Fringe kicks off the world’s biggest arts festival!

Piper Royal Mile Edinburgh_

Read next | Walks in Edinburgh

3. Spit in the Heart of Midlothian

Gross, we know, but historically locals used to spit in this very spot outside of St Giles Cathedral. Why? Well it depends who you believe. Some say it was in protest against local taxation, others will tell you it was to show dislike to the building that used to stand there, or the people in it, the Old Tolbooth Prison.  Price: Free

Heart of Midlothian Royal Mile Edinburgh

4. Rub Hume’s Toe

There are quite a few unusual things to do in Edinburgh! Rub the statue of the philosopher David Hume’s toe for luck, like many of Edinburgh’s students do. It hangs over the edge so it’s hard not to give it a wee clean! Price: Free

Humes Toe Edinburgh Royal Mile Edinburgh

5. The National Museum – Explore the Mother of all Museums

The National Museum is the best of all of Edinburgh’s museums, which you can read about in this guide to museums . The grand old Victorian original (complete with an awe-inspiring central atrium) has been joined at the hip with a sleek modern sandstone extension. They combine to sweep you and your kids on quite a journey. You can explore the story of Scotland from prehistoric times to the present day. Or just check out whale skeletons and model ships. This is no staid museum with loads of things to press and play with. → Secret local tip – A wee secret is the playroom for younger kids hidden away behind the otherworldly Millennium Clock. Entrance is free. A fantastic option for a rainy day !

National Museum Scotland Edinburgh

You may also like | Day Trips from Edinburgh by Train

6. Other Museums For Kids in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a huge variety of museums. The following have options for kids too:

  • Children’s Museum
  • Museum of Edinburgh (Huntly House Museum)
  • Museum on the Mound (Money Museum)
  • Surgeons’ Hall (Medical Museum)

Childhood Museum in Edinburgh

7. Get a Selfie with Greyfriars Bobby

Bobby was a very loyal Skye Terrier who spent 14 years guarding his owner’s grave at Greyfriars Kirk until he passed away in 1872. To celebrate this Edinburgh mascot, the fluff was given a statue on George IV Bridge. Edinburgh’s wee dug’s nose is a little discoloured from tourists rubbing it. Get a selfie with his snout instead! Greyfriars Bobby is also Everything Edinburgh’s logo. Price: Free

Greyfriars Bobby Statue Edinburgh

8. Harry Potter Trail 

Did you know that She Who Cannot Be Named’s popular books were written in this fine city? Many of the locations dreamed up have been inspired by Edinburgh landmarks and attractions.

Greyfriars Kirk Graveyard Edinburgh. Harry Potter

Your Harry Potter Bucket

  • Take a selfie at Diagon Alley (Victoria Street)
  • Check out the real Hogwarts at George Heriots
  • Work out the character names on the gravestones of Greyfriars Kirk
  • Look at the toilets of the Elephant Cafe

Price: Free with exception of cafe items 

Read next | Harry Potter locations fans can’t miss in Edinburgh

The Elephant House Edinburgh Harry Potter

9. Tell Them a Story at the Scottish Storytelling Centre

If your children like nothing better than a good story, give yourself a break and let someone else do the honours at the Scottish Storytelling Centre . 

Tucked on the deeply historic Royal Mile you can just stroll in and check out the exhibits on storytelling, read the tall tales and try on a few costumes. 

I recommend, though, looking at their website in advance as they have all sorts of events. 

Many of these are free.

All of them are fun and engaging.

We love their borrowed Scots motto – “The story is told eye to eye, mind to mind and heart to heart”. Price: Free, additional cost for some shows and exhibitions

Tolbooth House Museum Edinburgh

10. Journey to the Centre of the Earth at Dynamic Earth

Dynamic Earth is a must for kids wondering how things work and how the world around them was formed. This sail-like striking modern building has echoes of the Sydney Opera House – its architecture is fascinating. 

Once inside, myriad exhibits sweep you through volcanoes and glaciers, all the way from the formation of the earth, right through to the present day.

Scotland’s largest interactive visitor attraction is the place to head if you struggle to answer your kids’ tricky questions on the Big Bang. 

A welcoming café is on hand too.

Holyrood Park Arthurs Seat Edinburgh Nature Hike

11. Urban Hikes With Kids in Edinburgh 

Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, a tale of two hills – and one is a volcano! 

Can you guess which?

If you’re new to Edinburgh or just want to remember what an amazing city it is, stroll up Calton Hill at the eastern end of Princess Street.

Kids love the National Monument’s 12 pillars for climbing too.

Calton Hill Views Edinburgh

Or hike up rugged Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park.

From both these lofty vantage points the city of Robert the Bruce and Sir Walter Scott, of Greyfriars Bobby and Harry Potter, spreads out in front of you betwixt hill and river.

Both Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill are ideal spots to point out all the places you are going to visit and let your wee ones help plan all the fun things you’re going to discover together. 

St Anthonys Chapel Holyrood Park Edinburgh Views

There is a coffee stand, modest museum and flash restaurant on Calton Hill too. Edinburgh is actually the city built on Seven Hills so if your clan are walkers there are plenty of options.

Arthurs Seat Edinburgh Walk Park

Edinburgh’s Seven Hills

  • Arthur’s Seat (and Salisbury Crags)
  • Castle Rock
  • Calton Hill 
  • Corstorphine Hill
  • Blackford Hill
  • Craiglockhart Hill

Price: Free

12. Princes Street Gardens

The spiritual green heart of Edinburgh.

Savouring sandwiches on the benches here is part of any Edinburgh childhood.

Follow the local example and take a pew.

I recommend West Princes Street Gardens as the castle looms right up in front of you and there is a free children’s playground.

Next to it is a café selling ice cream too.

Beware the local squirrels as they can be a wee bit too keen to share your sandwiches! 

Look out for live music events at the nearby Ross Bandstand, including free lunchtime concerts in summer.

Princes Street Gardens Cafe Scott Monument

13. Climb Scott Monument

While you are in the Gardens you might want to take advantage of the Scott Monument steps!

Located at the east of the park, you can climb the 287 steps for view of the city.

Scott Monument Edinburgh New Town Piper Princes Street Gardens_

14. Take it to the River

Most first time visitors to Edinburgh leave without even realising the city has a river running through its heart! 

Well it does – the Water of Leith.

Leith Shore

And handily you can wander along its banks.

A family favourite of ours is a visit to the (free) National Gallery of Modern Art followed by a wander along the river’s surprisingly bucolic banks downstream towards Stockbridge. 

As you ease along you’re surrounded by all sorts of greenery and will come across tweeting birds as your stress drifts away and the kids run around.

You pop up like a submarine in Stockbridge where a sprinkling of places to eat awaits. 

We like Pizza Express especially if we snare the window table that hangs out over the river. Price: Free (river walk)

→ Read also | Free things to do in Edinburgh

Blue skies, two girls outside National Modern Art Edinburgh

15. Craigmillar Castle

If you prefer your history rough, rugged and ready this is Craigmaillar Castle for you. A world away from its slick city centre sibling, this hideaway a few miles south is a proper ruin.   Here kids can ramble around checking out all the nooks and crannies playing out all their prince and princess fantasies. Lovely at any time of year, it really comes into its own in autumn when you can kick around in the swathes of leaves. Make sure you’ve got plenty of space on your phone or camera as there are great views from the ramparts too. 

You can pick up a fact-finding quiz if you want to learn as you go and have a wee souvenir.

young girl running blue skies over Craigmillar Castle in Edinburgh

16. Edinburgh Dungeons

Edinburgh is packed with underground activities such as spooky tours of Mary King’s Close or historical tours of The Vaults which may be suitable for older children. However, a fun way to learn about Edinburgh’s gory history is to take a tour of the Dungeons.

The Edinburgh Dungeons Tour_

17. See A Show

There are a number of theatres and independent cinemas around the city. Check out the Dominion, Edinburgh Filmhouse or the Cameo for their PG screenings. Look out for musicals and plays at the Edinburgh Playhouse, Festival Theatre Edinburgh, Kings Theatre Edinburgh and Usher Hall. Visiting in winter? A trip to the theatre to see pantomime is a must. A real Scottish Christmas tradition. Oh no it isn’t! Oh yes it is!

18. Baby Loves Disco

If your babe loves to move, find your nearest kid-friendly dance floor in Edinburgh here .

19. The Chocolate Cafe 

OK, this activity is not just for children, big kids like Coro The Chocolate Cafe too. Centrally located, just off Princes Street, Coro is a late night cafe that specialises in exceptionally good desserts. Build a crepe, pile up a waffle or enjoy a milkshake at this lesser-known child-friendly cafe in Edinburgh. Address: 13 Frederick Street.

You may also like our guides what to eat in Edinburgh and which restaurants to visit .

Love chocolate?

What about learning where it comes and how to make it at The Chocolatarium? Read our review .

20. Toots Play Cafe

Edinburgh’s first play cafe for under 5s, Toots Play Cafe is a big hit with Gemma (Everything Edinburgh’s) nephew, Jack.

Address: 227 Gilmerton Road (free parking)

21. Beaches in Edinburgh

Did you know that there are two beaches in the city which are both easily accessed from Leith? At the bottom of Leith Walk drive right for Portobello Beach and left or Cramond Beach. 

Portobello Beach Cafes People _

→ Read Next | Best Beaches in Edinburgh

22. South Queensferry

Just within the City of Edinburgh boundaries is this deeply special royal burgh.

This waterfront suburb is surrounded by green belt on three sides and sports the River Forth on its northern fringes. The walks around the Hopetoun, Dalmeny and Dundas estates are great.

Two young girls pointing at Forth Rail Bridge South Queensferry

Here lie the famous trio of bridges across the Forth too.

I thoroughly recommend taking a boat trip to see them at their most impressive on Maid of the Forth . Look out for seals and enjoy a scone!

Scone South Queensferry

The wee cobbled High Street is essential for a stroll and an ice cream – my girls insist the Wee Parlour has the best!

Swirl in the (free) Queensferry Museum and palatial Hopetoun House and South Queensferry makes for an ideal day trip.

Lothian Country bus 43 or train to Dalmeny.

You may also like this guide on things to do in South Queensferry.

23. Pick Fruit

Picking fruit is a very fond childhood memory of Everything Edinburgh. Close to the city you can take the family to pack your own punnets at Craigie’s Farm. They have a lovely farm shop too.

Strawberries on Pancakes Food_

24. Take a Train Ride

It’s not about the destination it’s about the journey, as the quote goes and a train ride is always a hit with younger kids. Big windows, bridges and a toot toot horn, what’s not to be amazed at!

Waverley Train Station with People Edinburgh Transport

Go one train stop further than South Queensferry (Dalmeny) to the Kingdom of Fife to travel over the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, an UNESCO World Heritage site. If transport is your kids thing, don’t forget the Edinburgh tram.

Forth Rail Bridge. Sunset. Night

25. Things to do in Edinburgh For Teenagers

A little trickier to please in addition to above check out the following for your older clan members:

  • Alien Rock – Indoor climbing – 8 Pier Place, Newhaven
  • The Boardwalk and Transgression Park – Indoor roller skating and scooter – Ocean Terminal, Leith
  • Murrayfield Ice Rink – Indoor ice skating – Riversdale Crescent, Edinburgh
  • Gravity – Indoor trampoline park – 6 Fountain Park
  • Midlothian Snow Centre – Dry slopes and tubing – Biggar Road
  • Shopping – Princes Street or Fort Kinnaird
  • Walk tours ! Ghouls, Harry Potter and history

Transgression Park Boardwalk Ocean Terminal Christmas Lights

26. Child Friendly Restaurants in Edinburgh 

Here’s a list of the most kid-friendly restaurants in Edinburgh recommended by friends, family and followers:

  • Hemma – 73 Holyrood Road, ideal for Dynamic Earth
  • Vittoria – 113 Brunswick Street or 19 George IV Bridge
  • Fazenda – 102 George Street (great for groups too)
  • Loudons – 2 Sibbald Walk
  • The City Cafe – 19 Blair Street (older kids)
  • Filling Station – Royal Mile
  • Mary’s Milk Bar (Ice cream) – 19 Grassmarket
  • Chapter One (vegan) – 107 Dalry Road
  • Scran and Scallie – 1 Comely Bank Road
  • Guild of Foresters Portobello – 36-40 Portobello High Street

You may also like | Edinburgh restaurant guide

Mary Milk Bar Food Grassmarket Edinburgh

27. Children’s Gardens and Parks in Edinburgh

  • Princes Street Gardens
  • St Andrews Square
  • Holyrood Park (Arthurs Seat)
  • The Meadows
  • Deaconess Garden
  • Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh
  • Starbank Gardens
  • Leith Links
  • Inverleith Park
  • Lauriston Castle

Read next | A guide to gardens and a post about parks in Edinburgh

visit edinburgh with toddler

Essential Edinburgh Information 

Food & drink in Edinburgh Best time to visit Edinburgh Things to do in Edinburgh How much does Edinburgh cost? Free 7-day Scotland itinerary

Plan Your Trip To Edinburgh 

Book accommodation at Booking.com Reserve a skip the line pass or guided tour at GetYourGuide Save money with this Edinburgh Pass

Any questions or comments? Let us know below .

This guide was written by Everything Edinburgh and Robin McKelive. Robin McKelvie is an Edinburgh-based travel writer, broadcaster and blogger. He writes for newspapers, magazines and websites across the world and also writes travel guidebooks. He also talks travel regularly for the BBC.

Everything Edinburgh

Everything Edinburgh is a friendly Edinburgh guide for visitors and locals. From food to festivals, itineraries to interests.

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30+ Top Things To Do with Kids in Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

National Museum of Scotland - Edinburgh

Are you planning a visit to the Scottish capital with your kids? Are you wondering if there are many things to do with kids, toddlers and babies in Edinburgh? Well you’ve come to the right place! There is so much to see, do and explore – from museums, to castles, parks, beaches, quirky, fun activities, we’ve got you covered!

We lived in the Scottish capital for almost 12 years and became very well acquainted with many fun family activities. Both our children were born here so we went through the baby, toddler and young children stage here. We now return on a regular basis with our tween and teenager so we’ve got a good idea on how to spend a great family holiday in Edinburgh.

TIP: CLICK HERE TO READ OUR SPECIFIC GUIDE ON TOP THINGS TO DO WITH TEENAGERS IN EDINBURGH

For your convenience, we’ve included a table of contents below that will allow you to skip to a specific section of interest – click on the icon to open and close the table. Read on as we share with you some of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Visiting the Old Town

Edinburgh is split between the Old Town and the New Town – everything south of Princes Street is considered as the Old Town and everything north is the New Town (more or less). There is a high concentration of places to visit in the Old town so we’ll start there!

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh castle

If you’ve come to Edinburgh with kids, there’s a pretty good chance you’re planning a visit to Edinburgh’s famous Castle ! This fortress, which stands proud and imposing above the city, is located at the top end of the Royal Mile and is an incredibly popular tourist attraction. We had a Historic Environment Scotland membership and this gave us the perfect opportunity to visit the castle on a number of occasions. Some of the highlights for children include the 1 o’clock gun, the Great Hall (plenty of weapons), the crown jewels (the oldest in Great Britain!), the recreation of a prison of war and the national war museum.

  • Consider timing your visit to coincide with the 1 o’clock gun – a canon is fired every day at 1pm (APART from on a Sunday).
  • Given its popularity (it had broken the 1 million visitors mark by the month of August last year!), we strongly recommend you book your tickets to the castle in advance .
  • You may also want to purchase an explorer pass if you’re planning on visiting other Historic Environment Scotland sites. This pass provides free entry to over 70 visitor attractions and you can choose a pass that’s valid for either 5 or 14 consecutive days.
  • Pick up the children’s quiz to enhance your little one’s visit or download it ahead of your visit . It was a real hit with our 9 year old daughter and brought her visit to life.

>> Check out our full guide to visiting Edinburgh Castle here  <<

Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura, Edinburgh

Located just a stone’s throw from Edinburgh castle (about 100 meters down the road from the Castle), you’ll find one of Edinburgh’s oldest attractions, Camera Obscura , which was established in 1835. Kids and grown-ups alike will love this world of optical illusions full of interactive exhibits. It is set over 5 floors and includes a mirror maze, a vortex tunnel and of course the original 165 year old camera obscura. This truly is a must-see attraction in Edinburgh  – it’s a great option for a rainy day and it’s a really fun family activity!

  • You get a fantastic panoramic view of the city from the rooftop terrace
  • Book your tickets online and visit early or late in the day if you’re visiting during peak season (especially August)

The Royal Mile

Royal Mile - Edinburgh

The Royal Mile – which incidentally starts from the castle and Camera Obscura – is a fun street to simply wander along and take in the atmosphere. As its name suggests, it measures one mile in distance and is also often referred to as the High Street by locals. It starts at Edinburgh Castle and finishes at the Palace of Holyrood. Along the way, you’ll take in a number of sites such as St Giles Cathedral, the David Hume statue, The Real Mary Kings Close, Edinburgh City Chambers, John Knox’s House, the Museum of Childhood and of course plenty of pubs and restaurants should you need to recharge your batteries!

It is an absolute must during Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival (August) as it’s hive of activity – street performers entertain the crowds the length and breadth of the street.

The Real Mary King’s Close

The Real Mary King's close

Join a 1 hour guided tour at the real Mary King’s Close on the Royal Mile. You’ll learn about Edinburgh’s past through tales and stories shared by a costumed character tour guide. Make sure you book your ticket ahead online.

Check their website here .

The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh, Scotland

From one castle to another! At the bottom of the Royal Mile and exactly one mile from the Castle, you’ll find the Palace of Holyroodhouse , the Queen’s royal residence in Edinburgh. It’s loaded with fascinating history including close associations with Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Having recently been, I can confirm that this is a great place to visit with kids! We were lucky to visit just a few weeks after they brought out new multimedia guides for visitors. The guides are included in the admission price and offer either an adult or family tour.

We all followed the family guide tour and loved it! There are short video clips, games and quizzes as you move from one room to the next. We discovered that the Great Hall was the same size as two tennis courts and could fit either 75 elephants or 10 double decker buses into it. Children receive a small badge once they have completed the tour – our two were completely engaged with the guide.

Getting there:

On foot >>> You can easily walk there if you’re in the city centre – simply walk to the bottom of the Royal Mile and you’ll find the Palace, slightly to your right.

Bus + car >>> Many of the tour buses stop nearby as well as buses 6 and 35 (check the online timetable here ) . If you’re travelling by car, you can park in a public car park adjacent to the Palace (it’s located on Queen’s Drive) and it’s free at week-ends!

Greyfriar’s Bobby

Greyfriars Bobby - Edinburgh

Do you know the story of Greyfriars Bobby? It’s a truly heartwarming tale of a faithful and loyal dog who refused to leave his master’s graveside. Bobby, the Skye terrier, lay on his master’s grave for 14 years, only leaving for food. He died in 1872 at the age of 16 and was buried just 75 yards away from his master’s grave. You can visit his grave with his very own head stone at Greyfriars Kirkyard and there’s a sweet statue of him at the corner of Edinburgh’s Candlemaker Row and George IV Bridge.

Check out your library for the book or pick it up here .

There is no shortage of museums in the capital and best of all, most of them are FREE! Here are some of our favourite child-friendly museums in Edinburgh:

National Museum of Scotland

This is a fantastic museum for children – so much to keep the little minds active and entertained. This gem of a place covers everything from Scottish history, to nature, space, transport, art, design, science, technology, fashion, the animal kingdom and more. There’s something for everyone, however, be warned you may struggle to drag your kids away from this place
 there’s so much to see and do! Entry is free, however, donations are welcomed.  

  • Look out for Dolly the sheep, the first ever cloned animal!
  • Don’t miss the Millenium clock that comes to life every hour on the hour
  • Ask for a children’s quiz at reception
  • If you’re on a budget, picnics are allowed in designated areas
  • Check out the panoramic views from the 7 th Floor

The Museum of Childhood

Museum of Childhood, Edinburgh

This small, quirky museum located on the Royal Mile is not only fun for the kids but for parents too who’ll enjoy their wee trip down memory lane. There are many toys and books dating back as far as the late 1800s. The ground floor was recently updated and the brand new Gallery One includes many new retro exhibits such as the Fisher Price chatter phone. It’s an ideal stop if you’re meandering along the Royal Mile and have a short amount of time to fill. And of course, it’s an ideal rainy day activity and it’s free.

The Museum on the Mound

Museum on the mound - money trail booklet

This museum actually took us by surprise! We visited for the first time in February 2019 and loved it! It’s the former headquarters of the Bank of Scotland and is located- as its name suggests – on the mound. You need to head towards the Old Town (if you’re located near Princes Street). It’s a small museum and it won’t take you long to get round.

There’s a great booklet trail for kids including a challenge for them to crack a safe – the adults enjoyed this just as much as the kids. You’ll also learn about the history of the British currency, you’ll get to see Scotland’s oldest bank note and you’ll be able to build a model bank. The guides are really lovely and offer plenty of fun, interesting anecdotes. And of course, admission is free!

Our Dynamic Earth

Dynamic Earth - Edinburgh

I’ve lost count of the number of times we visited Dynamic Earth as we used to have a yearly membership. This is a fantastic place for children (and adults) of all ages. You’ll embark on a journey through time and space where you’ll learn all about our planet earth – how it evolved from the Big Bang to present day. There are plenty of interactive exhibits and fun ‘rides’ including time travel on the Deep Time Machine, a ride on the Endeavour spaceship and much, much more.

  • You’ll get 10% off if you book your tickets online.
  • There’s an underground car park which is underneath Dynamic Earth and can be accessed from Holyrood Gait, however, if you can, we recommend walking.

Edinburgh Zoo

Penguins at Edinburgh Zoo

Okay, this isn’t technically a museum but this definitely a must if you’re visiting Edinburgh with kids! Jump on bus 12, 26 or 31 from the city centre and head out of town to Edinburgh Zoo . It’s heavily involved in conservation work and you will only find protected species in the zoo. Your kids will love the Giant Panda exhibit and the world famous Penguin Parade.  

  • It’s mostly set on a hill and so can be quite tiring for little legs.
  • Buy your tickets ahead online to save queuing up on the day and to obtain a discounted rate.

Quirky & Unique Things to do with Kids in Edinburgh

If you’re looking for some quirky, unique and fun things to do with kids in Edinburgh, then here are some suggestions that go beyond the castle and museums.

Royal Yacht Britannia

Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh

The Royal Yacht Britannia is the actual boat that the Queen used to sail in around the world – a floating home to the royal family for 44 years. It has now been safely moored at the Ocean Terminal, about a 10-15 minute drive from the city centre, for quite a number of years. We visited it when it first opened and we loved it – it gave a fascinating insight into the royal family and a bygone era.

Your kids will love checking out the 11 foot LEGO replica of Britannia. You’ll also be given a complimentary audio-guide which will greatly enhance your visit. To get there, either drive and park in the free Ocean Terminal car park or catch public transport ( buses 11, 22, 34, 35 and 36 ) or use one of the hop-on hop-off tourist buses.

Climb the Scott’s Monument

Scott's Monument - Edinburgh

You can’t fail to notice the tall spire that dominates the Edinburgh skyline along Princes Street. It’s called the Scott’s Monument and is one of the largest monuments dedicated to an author – in this case, Sir Walter Scott. It’s fun to climb the many stairs to the top where you’ll get a great view of Edinburgh city centre. It’s steep and narrow the further you get to the top. It’s worth noting that it does come with quite a hefty price tag at £8 per adult and £5 for kids, however, it is a true iconic building and one of a kind.

Tip:   you may wish to give it a miss if you’re scared of heights or claustrophobic!

Edinburgh Dungeon

Edinburgh Dungeon

This isn’t for the faint-hearted and we feel it’s only really suitable for children from the age of 8 upwards. The Edinburgh Dungeon is an underground tourist attraction in Edinburgh’s city centre, on East Market Street. There are professional actors who do a great job of freaking you out! They bring the darkest of Scottish history to life through fantastic shows, special effects and rides. The first time we went, we took our then 11 year old (who LOVED it!) and he definitely felt his younger sister – aged 9 – would have been very spooked by the experience so be aware of your child’s sensitivities before booking on this tour. We’ve since been back with them both as teenagers and they absolutely loved it! This is one of the activities we recommend highly in our guide of things to do in Edinburgh with teenagers.

Click HERE to book your tickets to the EDINBURGH DUNGEON

Guided Walking Tours

Edinburgh ghost tour

Why not bring history to life and take your kids on a walking tour? Our kids are often reluctant to go on walking tours but with a bit of cajoling, they end up absolutely love it. The guides have a wonderful ability to bring the subject to life and engage the children. The guided tours in Edinburgh that are most likely to capture your kids’ attention are probably the Ghost Tour or the Harry Potter tour for the HP aficionados!

Click HERE to book Edinburgh’s Underground Tour

Click HERE to book the Late-Night Underground Vaults Terror Tour

Click HERE to book the Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Tour

Click HERE to book the Harry Potter Tour

Alien Rock Climbing Centre

Alien Rock climbing centre, Edinburgh

And now for something completely different
 Why not take your kids along to a rock climbing taster session at Alien Rock? The session is open to all ages from 5 years up and includes all the gear. The climbing centre is located in a converted church in the Newhaven neighbourhood which is very close to the Royal Yacht Britannia (two birds with one stone?)

Junior Park Run

Junior Park Run, Inverleith Park, Edinburgh

Now for something you won’t find in the guidebooks. Why not join in with the locals and sign your kids up to a junior park run! What is a junior park run I hear you say? Well it’s a 2km run for juniors only, aged between 4 and 14 years of age. It’s completely FREE and takes place in both Inverleith Park and the Meadows. You will simply need to register online and take the printed copy of your barcode along on the day. They also offer adult 5km park runs which take place on a Saturday morning.

Junior Park Runs in Edinburgh

  • Inverleith Junior Park Run : every Sunday at 9:30 am in Inverleith park
  • The Meadows Junior Park Run: every Sunday at 9:30am in The Meadows Park.

Parkour at the Parliament

Parkour at the Parliament in Edinburgh

Have you heard of Parkour? You may have seen a youtube video of a young lad jumping across roofs, sliding along bannisters in the streets of Paris. This sport originated in France and has spread to many other parts of the world. It’s a great way for kids to get fit whilst being outdoors and having lots of fun. Well, one of our lovely friend’s recently told us about Parkour at the Parliament .

There are many classes available, however, the one we recommend is a drop in family session that takes place on a Saturday morning at 10am. You need to sign your kids up online beforehand and take them to the session which lasts an hour – parents can also join in a complimentary adult session at the same time. To say that our two enjoyed it would be an understatement! It’s also a really handy location if you’re staying close to the city centre or if you want to visit the Parliament, Holyroodhouse Palace, Dynamic Earth or Arthur’s Seat.

LOVE Gorgie Farm (formerly known as Gorgie City Farm)

chicken

A small farm within the city, how cool is that? LOVE Gorgie Farm , located about 2 miles from central Edinburgh, is a gem of a place. Formerly known as Gorgie City Farm, it opened its doors in 1982 and has been run as a working farm ever since then, selling eggs, vegetables, lamb and pork to help cover some of its running costs. There are pigs, cows, chickens, sheep and goats on the farm.

Entrance is free although donations are very welcome and contribute towards the upkeep of this special place. There’s a cafĂ© onsite if you’re feeling peckish. It is best reached by public transport ( Lothian Bus numbers 1, 2, 3, 25 and 33 stop at the gate ).

Check their website here: LOVE Gorgie Farm

Gravity Trampoline Centre

Enough of tourist sites I hear you say? Time for some fun exercise? Well this is just the place for you – trampoline to your heart’s content. Check the online schedule to be sure that there are no classes when you plan to visit.

Playgrounds & Parks in Edinburgh

Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh

If your kids are getting fed up with being dragged round yet another museum or another old building and simply need to let off some steam, then why not head to the nearest playground. Edinburgh has plenty of green space and there are several playgrounds and parks dotted throughout the city. Here is our pick of the best across Edinburgh.

The Meadows

The Meadows Playground, Edinburgh

The Meadows playground is definitely one of the best! This is one of the largest playgrounds in Edinburgh and it even includes a flying fox (adults can have a go too
 go on, you know you want to!). It’s set in the east end of the famous Meadows park and cater to all ages, from toddlers to teenagers, and includes a swings, slides, climbing rocks, sand play.

TIP : Parking can be tricky so walk there if you can.

Princes Street Gardens Playpark

Princes Street Gardens Playground

If you’re in the city centre and your kids are fed up with traipsing around, then why not let them burn off some energy in Princes Street Gardens playpark. It’s located at the west end of the Princes Street Gardens under the shadow of the iconic Edinburgh castle. There’s a large fountain nearby if the weather happens to be good and they fancy cooling down! The gardens are lovely and give an impression of being in the countryside despite being right in the middle of the city.

Inverleith Park Playground

Playpark at Inverleith Park, Edinburgh

On the north side of the city about 20-25 minutes from Princes Street, you’ll find Inverleith Park. Here you’ll find a fantastic children’s playground, 3 football, 4 rugby and 6 seven-a-side pitches, a cricket square and a petanque area. Don’t miss the pond where you’ll often find old boys (and young) testing their model boats.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Inverleith Park is right next to the Royal Botanical Gardens and is an absolute must visit.  It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Again, there is plenty of space for kids to run around, chase each other, do cartwheels, etc. There is a large Glasshouse which houses all kinds of tropical plants.

You’ll also find a Japanese garden, a large visitor centre, the John Hope Gateway Centre and a lovely child-friendly cafĂ© – The Terrace Cafe – with one of the best views of the Edinburgh skyline. Buses 8, 12 and 23 will drop you outside the beautifully ornate leaf gate at the East Entrance on Inverleith Row.

TIP : Don’t miss the view of the city from the Terrace CafĂ©. It’s an incredibly child-friendly cafĂ© with a play corner and a lovely choice of food/snacks for kids.

If you happen to be visiting in December, do not miss the magical winter light trail evenings at the Botanics.

Related : CHECK THIS POST FOR FOR THINGS TO DO IN EDINBURGH AT CHRISTMAS

Holyrood Park & Arthur’s Seat

A run around Holyrood Park might be enough for younger kids but if you have older children or your little ones are good walkers, then consider taking them for a hike up Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh’s extinct volcano. It is situated east of the city centre and can easily be reached from the bottom of the Royal Mile. You’ll find Holyrood Palace when you reach the end of Royal Mile and from there you can’t fail to see the large hill to the right. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy some fantastic views of the city and the sea (Firth of Forth) in the distance. It’s about a 40 minute walk up to the summit or if you decide to walk round, it’ll take a good hour.

  • There’s a pretty good chance it’ll be ‘blowing a hoolie’ at the top so dress accordingly!
  • Good footwear recommended too.
  • Check the maps onsite to pick the route up as there are a number of different paths.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill - Edinburgh

Calton Hill is another fantastic place for kids to let off steam and as a bonus you’ll get some of the ultimate best views of the city! When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views to the Firth of Forth, Arthurs Seat, the port of Leith, the Pentland hills and of course right down Princes street towards the castle.

Calton Hill is also home to several unusual monuments including the national monument which looks like it was built by the Romans. It was in fact built in 1826 in memory of soldiers and sailors that died in the Napoleonic wars. It was meant to be a replica of the Parthenon in Athens but was sadly was never finished as funding dried up before it was completed.

TIP : This is a great place to get some fun family snaps!

Getting there :  Finding your way there can be a little tricky. You can access it from a staircase and winding tarmac path at Waterloo Place/Regent Road or from Royal Terrace on the north side.

Beaches & Rivers in and around Edinburgh

Water of leith.

visit edinburgh with toddler

This walkway, just a short distance from the city centre, is  great option for families visiting Edinburgh. The Water of Leith runs from Balerno to Leith covering 12 miles. There are many points of entry along the walkway. We love to join near Dean Village and to walk to the Gallery of Modern Art.

And if you fancy a change from the city and have a car, head to one of Edinburgh’s nearby beaches.

Cramond island, scotland

Cramond is a lovely coastal village about 20 minutes  Choose between a river or sea front walk at Cramond and if you time it well, you can even cross over to Cramond island at low tide. There’s a lovely cafĂ© by the waterfront where you can stop for cuppa.

Portobello Beach

Portobello beach is located just a few miles from Edinburgh city centre and can be reached by car or by bus (no 26, 124 or 113). This seaside suburb, popular with the locals, has a lovely two mile stretch of beach where you can swim or sunbathe – weather permitting of course! There is also a great promenade where you can walk, cycle, run, roller-blade or stop off for a coffee and cake.

South Queensferry

Forth Rail Bridge

If your kids are into trains, head to South Queensferry where you will get an amazing view of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge. You can also take a boat trip across to Inchcolm Island and check out the Abbey. South Queensferry is a very cute coastal village and takes around 30 minutes to reach from Edinburgh city centre.

Soft Plays in Edinburgh

soft play ball pit

Love them or loathe them, soft play centres or indoor parks can be a good option for rainy days! It’s also a chance for mum and dad to (kinda) relax, have a coffee in (relative) peace and enjoy the chorus of screaming kids, lol.

Here are a few suggestions:

Ocean Play Centre

This is a great option if you’re planning a visit to Royal Yacht Britannia. If you’re little ones are needing a little encouragement for visiting yet another tourist attraction, you could perhaps reward them with a session at the Ocean Play centre. It’s located in the Ocean Terminal and even overlooks the Britannia Bay.

Clambers is a lovely softplay suitable for babies to kids up to age 10 at the Royal Commonwealth Swimming Pool. You can combine softplay with swimming at this great venue. As the name suggests, the pool was built for the Commonwealth Games and is one of very few 50 m pools in Scotland.

Wonder World Edinburgh

This is one of the largest softplay’s in Edinburgh and it’s situated in the heart of Leith. You’ll find something for every age from ball pits in the baby zone, to volcano slides, small go-karts, trampolines, climbing areas.

What’s on in Edinburgh for Kids

Families edinburgh website & made magazine website.

Are you looking to find out what’s on in Edinburgh for kids? Well we have a real local insider’s tip to share with you. Check out the Families Edinburgh website as well as the MADE (Mums & Dads Edinburgh) website which are both dedicated to all the activities, events and shows that are on in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Theatres

Edinburgh is also well known for its thriving theatre scene. You’ll find many of the West End plays kicking off in the capital before heading south to London. Here are links to all of the theatres in Edinburgh –  check out what’s on during your forthcoming visit:

  • Edinburgh Playhouse
  • The Festival Theatre
  • The King’s Theatre – a must in December for their legendary pantomime!
  • The Royal Lyceum
  • Traverse Theatre 

popcorn

How about a trip to the cinema? Check out the wonderfully quirky Dominion cinema !  This is a fabulous quirky art deco 1930s style cinema located in the Morningside area of town (South side) and is something of an institution in Edinburgh.

Enjoy your film viewing whilst relaxing in a lovely comfortable sofa. Choose the first class experience where you’ll be sat in reclining leather sofas and served drinks in glasses and your nachos or popcorn in proper bowls. Be warned though, other cinema experiences will never be the same again, lol.

And if you’re now thinking that a trip to the cinema might a good idea, here’s a list of the other main cinemas within the city centre.

Edinburgh Cinemas:

  • Vue Cinema at the Omni Centre   or at the Ocean Terminal .
  • Cineworld Cinema in Fountain Park.
  • The Odeon on Lothian Road.
  • Cameo Picturehouse
  • The Filmhouse – this is an arthouse cinema that offers world cinema screenings as well as many indepedent films. There is a great vibe in the bar area if you fancy grabbing a quick bite before watching your movie of choice.

TIP: And don’t forget that many cinemas offer cheap weekend morning showings ( VUE cinema  or Cineworld ) from ÂŁ2 and baby screenings  (this is a baby and carer screening which is limited to babies under 12 months accompanied by no more than two adults).

Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Edinburgh

pizza

There is plenty of choice when it comes to eateries in Edinburgh! Here’s a small sample of some of our favourites – we’ll keep adding to the list and please feel free to leave your own suggestions in the comments.

Almost all of the museums have great family friendly cafés for lunch, a snack or a cuppa:

  • The Balcony CafĂ© at the National Museum of Scotland
  • The National Portrait Gallery CafĂ©
  • The Modern Art Gallery in the West End: CafĂ© Modern One and Paolozzi’s kitchen in Modern Two
  • The Terrace CafĂ© in the Botanics

There are many great Italian restaurants in Edinburgh and here are some of the most popular with locals:

  • La Favorita – located about half way down Leith Walk
  • Vittoria on the Walk – located towards the top of Leith Walk, close to the Playhouse Theatre and the Omni Centre
  • Vittoria on the Bridge – located on the Bridges, close to the Royal Mile

For something a little more quirky:

  • Mary’s Milk Bar, in the Grassmarket
  • Scran & Scallie , located on Comely Bank Road in Stockbridge
  • Hard Rock CafĂ© on George Street. Not typically Scottish but a fun experience nonetheless!

For delicious coffee and homemade cakes, head to one of Mimi’s Bakehouse cafĂ©s :

Cupcake at Mimi's in Edinburgh

  • 250 Canongate, Edinburgh
  • 63 Shore, Edinburgh
  • 277 St John’s Road, Edinburgh

Getting Around Edinburgh

Red CitySightseeing Bus in front of Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh

One of the many great things about Edinburgh is its size – it’s very compact, easy to get around and you can walk to most places within the city centre. However, little legs might get tired and require a break so why not turn getting around the city into an exciting adventure ?

Ride on a Double-decker bus

If you’re coming from outside of the UK, there’s a good chance you might not have double-decker buses so why not add this to your kids’ bucket list and let them ride atop through the city centre! Here’s a link to Lothian bus journey planner  or download their app to check bus routes and timetables. Be aware that (frustratingly!) you need to have the right change for your bus fare when you jump on a Lothian bus.

Ride on the tram

The tram is a fun alternative to the double-decker bus and if you’ve arrived in Edinburgh by plane, you could easily catch the tram from outside the airport and head all the way into town. The adventure starts from the word go! The tram doesn’t cover as much ground as the extensive network of buses, however, it’s a fun ride nonetheless. The tram line runs from Edinburgh airport to York Place – check their website for timetables and fares .

Ride in a Black Cab

A cab is another word for ‘taxi’ and you’ll find many of the iconic ‘black taxis’ in Edinburgh. Why not treat your kids to a ride in one of these unique taxis? You can flag them down, head to a taxi rank, call them or download their app .

Ride on the CitySightseeing Edinburgh tourist bus

You may be short on time and are wanting to fit in as much as possible on your whirlwind tour of Edinburgh. If like us, dragging kids from A to B can be a time-consuming affair, then consider catching the Hop-on Hop-off tour bus.

We have the *perfect* option for you – the red CitySightseeing Edinburgh Bus Tour because, get this
 the children’s commentary is a Horrible Histories’ narration by Terry Deary himself! ‘Horrible Histories’ is a fantastic British children’s TV show that presents history in a very fun way – as they say in the show, it’s ‘history with all the gory bits left in’!

It’s sure to capture your children’s attention and make a real success of the sightseeing experience. Our kids absolutely love Horrible Histories and if you haven’t heard of it, I suggest you check out the clip below immediately:

Day trips from Edinburgh with kids

North Berwick + kids

There are so many things to do see and do in the capital, however, now and again, it’s nice to escape the city and explore a little further afield. As you’ll see, there are many places to take children outside of Edinburgh for some action-packed adventures. We’ve written a post specifically about fun things to do near Edinburgh with kids (CLICK HERE) , however, here’s a quick snapshot:

Dalkeith Country Park – 20 mins from Edinburgh

Jupiter Artland – 25 minutes from Edinburgh

Pick Your Own Fruit at Craigie’s Farm – 25 mins from Edinburgh

Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Livingston – 35 mins from Edinburgh

North Berwick, East Lothian – 40 mins from Edinburgh

East Lothian Beaches – 40 mins from Edinburgh

East Links Family Park – 35 mins from Edinburgh

National Museum of Flight, East Lothian – 40 mins from Edinburgh

Falkirk Wheel – 45 mins from Edinburgh

The Kelpies & the Helix Park – 40 mins from Edinburgh

Cramond Beach & Island – 20 mins from Edinburgh

Boat trip to Inchcolm Island & Abbey – 25 mins from Edinburgh

Visit Stirling Castle – 50 minutes from Edinburgh (check out our tips for visiting Stirling Castle )

Blair Drummond Safari Park – 50 minutes from Edinburgh

Glasgow – 45 to 60 minutes from Edinburgh (click here for some of our top recommendations of things to do with kids in Glasgow )

>> Check out our detailed post HERE on day trips from Edinburgh with kids – click here!  <<

We’ve hopefully shown you that there is a tremendous amount of fun things to do with kids in Edinburgh and that it’s a truly fantastic place to visit with children. We love hearing from our readers so please feel free to share any of your experiences with us in the comments below and tell us what we need to add to our guide ↓↓↓↓↓

For you, for Pinterest

Edinburgh with kids - Pinterest Image

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One comment.

Wow such a diverse list which will definitely keep the kids entertained and tired out!

Lots of variety and very helpful with timings and specific recommendations! I love the fact there’s a free animal farm!

Thanks so much for sharing!

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21 things to do in Edinburgh with kids

Once upon a time, I spent a large chunk of my life visiting Edinburgh, thanks to my then boyfriend who grew up there – and while I wasn’t considering things to do in Edinburgh with kids back then (!), it quickly became one of my favourite cities.

View from Calton Hill down onto the skyline of Edinburgh and ideas of 16 of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids

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So much so, that I’m determined to introduce my daughter to all its highlights, especially given how much there is for kids in Edinburgh – and after whetting her appetite on a great city break in Glasgow  as a toddler.

I’ve got fond memories of visiting Edinburgh Zoo and the castle, but also wandering the streets of the Royal Mile and soaking up some of the Scottish capital’s history – so here’s what’s on my family-friendly Edinburgh list.

Contents - click to jump to a section

Edinburgh Castle

Towering on its rock above the city, the castle is one of the first things you see – and there has been a royal fortress here since the 11th century.

If you somehow don’t see it, you’ll hear it as the One O’Clock gun fires almost every day of the year: as a time signal rather than a show of military force though, ships in the nearby Firth of Forth once used it to set their clocks.

View of Edinburgh Castle on the rock above the city - one of my favourite things to do in Edinburgh with kids or without

For a flavour of the castle’s martial history, you want the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo which takes place on the Esplanade in August, with the different Scottish regiments parading to the accompaniment of pipes and drums.

But whenever you visit, you can see the Honours of Scotland – as the Scottish Crown Jewels are known – alongside the Stone of Destiny. Outside the Crown room, there’s the huge Mons Meg cannon, the giant Great Hall and the Royal castle to explore for starters.

You can take a tour of stroll at your own pace, with highlights picked out on the castle’s website  and itineraries depending how long you’ve got to explore. If you’re looking for a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle , this option also lets you skip the line.

Buying your tickets in advance with this Royal Edinburgh pass also lets you skip the line

Edinburgh Zoo

Famous for its giant pandas, that’s only the start of what there is to see at the 82-acre zoo. Set just outside the centre of Edinburgh in Corstorphine, the zoo is somewhere I used to visit every time I was in the city.

Open and airy, it’s a very green zoo with tigers, koalas and penguins as well, which come out to parade from Europe’s largest outdoor penguin pool every day at 2.15pm, plus there was a new giraffe enclosure added in summer 2021.

Giant panda walks through the grass - the two giant pandas at Edinburgh Zoo are one of the biggest attractions for kids

In total there are over 1,000 rare and endangered animals – keeper talks run during the day, and keep an eye out for the animals being fed, although official feeding times are not currently taking place.

If it’s the pandas which are the highlights for you, there’s no need to book extra tickets or timed entry, just turn up whenever you want to see if they’re out having a scratch against a tree trunk or lounging by the pool – you might need to queue a little though.

There are regular family-friendly activities at the zoo, including a temporary dinosaur exhibit. It’s free for kids under three and tickets must be prebooked unless you’re a member – numbers are limited so plan ahead for school holidays.

K eep an eye out for discounted tickets on sites like Get Your Guide , while you can also get up to 20% off with Kids Pass – a 30-day trial of Kids Pass costs just ÂŁ1

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

There’s nowhere quite like the World of Illusions and the range of illusions you’ll find over the five floors here – not to mention the fantastic views of Edinburgh from the rooftop.

The 166-year-old Camera Obscura is still the highlight – I remember being wowed when I visited.

View of the Camera Obscura in Edinburgh among the other buildings of the Old Town - one of my top things to do with kids in Edinburgh

There’s a 15-minute show with a guide telling tales of Edinburgh history, while showing off the whole city from the rooftop tower using the Victorian contraption, where images of what’s outside are displayed in the room.

There are more than 100 interactive exhibits to boggle your brain, from the mirror Maze and Vortex tunnel to confuse your senses in Bewilderworld to holograms and a colour shadow wall, unexpected mirrors and more sensory surprises.

The Potter Trail

Potterheads won’t be the only ones who love The Potter Trail tour , but it’s heaven if your kids are fans – after all, Edinburgh is the city where JK Rowling wrote the Harry Potter novels, famously starting in a cafĂ© and finishing in the Balmoral Hotel.

The colourful buildings of Victoria Street in Edinburgh which may have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books, plus a tour for Harry Potter fans in Edinburgh

The tour takes you to some of the locations which inspired characters and scenes, including the café where it all began, the place which inspired Diagon Alley (or one of them, at least) and the chance to be sorted outside the school which inspired Hogwarts.

You can even see where Lord Voldemort is buried, practise a few spells and find out which terrible poet gave his name to a Hogwarts teacher.

Best of all, it doesn’t cost a penny (even for Muggles) if you’re looking for free things to do in Edinburgh with kids – although they do pass the sorting hat around at the end for donations, so it’s worth bringing a few galleons in case you were spellbound.

For more ideas of days out in the UK for Harry Potter fans , check out my top picks

Potion making and a Wizard Afternoon tea at the Cauldron

If the tour has whetted your appetite for all things magical, you can try your hand at creating your own potions or refuel with a Wizard Afternoon tea at The Cauldron in Edinburgh .

At the Wizard bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, there are potions suitable for kids aged 5+ as well as adults, with a welcome drink poured by magic wand, plus the chance to brew two of your own (as well as the use of any essential magical equipment while you’re there) during a 1h 45-minute potion making experience .

Or tuck into the Wizard afternoon tea , with ‘sand-witches’ alongside the scone and desserts, plus tea brewed by magic wand – also lasts for 1h 45 minutes.

National Museum of Scotland

This great museum has some fantastic ways to get hands on, so it’s worth a visit at any time of year – although it’s a particularly good option if you’re looking for things to do in Edinburgh in the rain with kids.

The different galleries have different themes – creativity in Imagine for example, plus science and technology, as well as Adventure.

View of the buildings housing the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh with lots of interactive displays and exhibits for kids

You could climb into a human hamster wheel, or dig for dinosaur bones in the Adventure Planet gallery if your kids fancy themselves as mini archaeologists.

Animal lovers can try to outrace a cheetah or find out if they’re heavier than a polar bear (probably not!) as well as searching for bugs, dressing up in historic clothes or designing their own fashion masterpieces.

Or follow one of the themed trails, inspired by Space, coffins, wildlife or good old I Spy, as well as marvelling at a T Rex skeleton cast.

There’s no charge for entry to this family friendly attraction, so it’s another great option for free things to do with kids in Edinburgh.

Dynamic Earth

Discover the story of Planet Earth, from the Big Bang through the chill of Ice Ages to the devastating power of volcanic eruptions, watch the Northern Lights dance and hear the sounds and sights of the rainforest at Dynamic Earth .

The Dynamic Earth attraction in Edinburgh - perfect for Edinburgh in the rain with kids

Or plunge to the depths of the ocean to discover life beneath the sea (from the comfort of a yellow submarine), as well as searching for whales and watching a 30 foot wall of waves.

If only geography had been quite as exciting when I was at school – the 360 degree ShowDome cinema brings the whole dramatic tale to life while you’ll also find Mission Earth augmented reality experience.

There are also extra themed events taking place during school holidays – a journey to space, for example, if Earth isn’t quite enough. Easily one of the most fun things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Still the monarch’s official residence in Edinburgh, Holyroodhouse might not have the long history of Edinburgh castle but some of Scotland’s best known royal figures have actually lived within the walls.

Mary Queen of Scots is the most famous, as she lived in the oldest part of the palace during the 16th century – where her secretary was murdered in front of the pregnant Queen’s eyes.

Supposedly you can still see the bloodstains


Exterior of Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh - visiting Holyroodhouse is one of my top things to do with kids in Edinburgh

There are also links to Bonnie Prince Charlie, who lived here for a glorious six weeks, the chance to view the throne room, and wander past the treasures of the Great Gallery, including a portrait of Macbeth and sword marks in the walls.

As well as temporary exhibits, it’s fascinating to see how royal life continues within the walls: the late Queen held dinners and other events here.

Kids can follow the family trails and dress up, while there’s also an interactive multimedia guide – which beats the standard audioguide commentary as they’re encouraged to answer questions such as where the Queen sat at official dinners, as well as visualising double-decker buses inside the Great Gallery.

Buy your tickets in advance here

The Real Mary King’s Close

These days, Edinburgh’s picturesque Old Town is one of the biggest draws for visitors – but back in the day, the picture was a lot darker (and smellier).

So for kids who love history, or simply the more gruesome parts of it, head to The Real Mary King’s Close , a medieval street that’s preserved under the Royal Mile.

Almost the entire narrow street remains, with homes that were originally as high as 10 storeys, hugging the steep hill down to the present-day Princes Street Gardens, then the Nor Loch, a defensive moat which often stank to high heaven.

Over the centuries, more buildings were constructed over the old homes: eventually rediscovered and reopened as a museum where you can take a tour.

According to the tales, you might find ghosts – and it’s not surprising when one house’s inhabitants almost all died of plague, while another includes a cell where the doomed Mary Queen of Scots once spent a night. Even seeing one small home which would have been crammed with a large family is haunting.

The Real Mary King Close is better for older kids than easily scared or upset little ones, but it’s an introduction to Edinburgh’s past reality that’s hard to beat.

Book your ticket in advance here – private tours and flexi tickets are also available, while you can also find discounted tickets on the Tiqets website – click here

One of the alleyways of the Old Town in Edinburgh on a dark winter night - a taste of what the medieval city was like, along with attractions such as the Real Mary King's Close

Edinburgh’s Ghostly Underground Vaults Tour

If your children love all things gruesome, gory and ghoulish, there’s another thrilling option for your list of things to do in Edinburgh with kids, with a ghost tour that takes you underground to the Edinburgh Vaults.

Suitable for ages 5+ only, a cloaked guide shares tales of the city’s dark past as you travel along the Royal Mile before venturing into the Blair Street Underground Vaults (also known as the South Bridge Vaults).

These old storage areas were turned into homes, quickly becoming slums and a haven for crime. Expect tales of witches and bodysnatchers along the way, and plenty of real life spine-chilling stories.

Find reserve now pay later options (as well as free cancellation) if you book the Underground Vaults tour on Get Your Guide

The Edinburgh Dungeon

Like the other Dungeons around the UK, such as London and York, this one is only for older kids – you can’t visit with under fives and the Edinburgh Dungeon is recommended for over eights only.

Having had actors jump out at me from darkened passageways with unexpectedly realistic make-up, I’d say that’s a good bar – my own daughter would not have enjoyed this in the slightest aged seven.

But once they’re past the point of shrieking at unexpected scares and are ready to soak up more bloodsoaked and gruesome history, from torture to witchcraft, it’s perfect for bringing Edinburgh’s darker past to life.

After all, the city’s most famous queen was beheaded by her cousin, plague stalked the narrow streets and two infamous inhabitants went about killing people for the dissection fee they’d collect – just for starters!

Throw in a couple of rides, including one for those over 1.4m only, and you’re guaranteed to leave with your heart racing.

Click here to buy tickets and check the latest special events

Find Greyfriars Bobby

You can’t visit Edinburgh without wandering along the Royal Mile – from Holyroodhouse at one end to Edinburgh Castle at the other, past a thousand shortbread and souvenir shops.

But as you walk, talk a small detour towards the Greyfriars Kirkyard to hear the story of Greyfriars Bobby, the dog so famous for his loyalty that there’s a statue to commemorate him.

Sculpture of Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who in the 19th century guarded the grave of his owner for 14 years

As the tale goes, he would walk the streets of the city with his owner, night watchman John – or Auld Jock – until John died and was buried in the churchyard.

Bobby refused to leave the graveside except once a day, when the One O’Clock gun fired from the castle when he’d eat, until his own death 14 years later when he was buried near his master.

True? Who can say
 but it makes a sweet story to entertain (and rather more child-friendly than tales of Burke and Hare
 unless you’re visiting with teens, that is!).

The Scottish Storytelling Centre

Take a break between exploring with a rest and a tale at the Scottish Storytelling Centre . The arts centre has a string of events year-round, but there’s also an interactive Storywall in the Storytelling Court.

You can find out more about Greyfriars Bobby, but also some other famous Scottish characters, from Nessie to Wee Willie Winkie, as well as hearing snatches of Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous tales.

If you’re inspired to pick up a book and take it home, there’s a shop in the medieval John Knox House – watch out for the dragon’s nest tucked away.

Less than 10 minutes away, check out the living monument at Makars’ Court, where famous words of great Scottish writers are inscribed in the flagstones.

Take the hop on hop off bus

If it’s a rainy day in Edinburgh or you’re looking to see the sights without wearing out small legs, the hop-on hop-off bus tour is always on my list of things to do with kids.

You get the usual commentary and it’s always a good way to get your bearings, but this particular city sightseeing tour seems especially well designed for getting you between some of the city’s biggest attractions too, including the castle, Holyrood Palace and Dynamic Earth.

You can also find tickets for three different Edinburgh bus tours , including the City Sightseeing route.

Brave the ghost bus tour

If you’re looking for a bus tour of Edinburgh with a difference, older kids will love the Comedy Horror Show ghost tour of Edinburgh , a 75-minute trip on a vintage double-decker telling darker tales of the city.

From executions and murder to hauntings, the eerie bus conductor tells takes of the infamous Burke and Hare as you travel the streets of Europe’s most haunted city in the black double-decker.

There’s a large helping of comedy, as well as the chance to see some of Edinburgh’s key sights in the Old Town and New Town, between terrifying tales of dreadful deeds across the centuries.

The bus itself has its own chilling history too. Once belonging to the Necropolis Bus Company, it’s the only survivor of a fire which destroyed the entire fleet in 1967…

Check out my review of its sister tour, the Ghost Bus Tour of London to get a spine-chilling flavour of the experience

Glasshouse at the Edinburgh Botanical Gardens, perfect if you want to get outdoors in Edinburgh with kids

Edinburgh Botanical Gardens

When the sun is shining in Edinburgh, there are plenty of places to get outdoors with kids, including the 70 acres of the city’s Botanical gardens .

Set on a hill above the city, there’s 350 years of history in the gardens but it’s also a gorgeous green spot to amble with kids – and if you just want a stroll, it’s free to enter as well.

The royal botanic gardens are also home to 10 glasshouses, including a temperate and tropical palmhouse, which house over 3,000 exotic plants between them – there an additional fee for tickets for adults, although children aged 15 and under go free.

Princes Street Gardens

If you don’t want to venture too far out of the city, kids can also play in Prince’s Street Gardens in the shadow of the Scott Monument – which you can pay to climb climb, although with its 287 often narrow and twisty steps, you might want to stick to the views from the Camera Obscura instead.

In December, the gardens turn into a Winter Wonderland including Christmas market, ice rink and ferris wheel, dubbed the Edinburgh Eye – perfect if you’re spending Christmas in Edinburgh with kids.

View of Princes Street Gardens with some of the buildings of Edinburgh and the ferris wheel in the background

The Chocolatarium Tour

Fancy some haggis-inspired chocolate? It’s just one highlight of this fun tasting and chocolate-making experience at Edinburgh’s Chocolatarium Tour .

The interactive tour lets you learn all the steps of the process transforming the cacao from its pod to eventual chocolate bar, plus a history of chocolate right through to the newest inventions.

Along the way you can taste various flavours, including camel milk chocolate, as well as making your own, personalised with your favourite flavours.

The whole experience lasts for 90 minutes, suitable for kids aged six and above.

Looking for another sweet-toothed experience in Edinburgh? This Royal Mile donut tour of Edinburgh includes a string of sweet treats – check out what we thought of the London donut tour

Arthur's Seat looking down onto Edinburgh

Arthur’s Seat

Venture out of Edinburgh city centre to climb this ancient volcano, a fantastic Edinburgh viewpoint – Arthur’s Seat itself, 251m above sea level, is part of Holyrood Park.

Home to an ancient hill fort, as well as the 15th century St Anthony’s Chapel, you can climb up in under an hour from Holyrood Palace, although pick good weather.

Legend tells that under the rock is a dragon which terrorised the area, eating so much that it fell into a deep sleep and never woke.

Sometimes truth is stranger than myth though, as miniature wooden coffins were discovered here, containing wooden figures, all wearing different clothes


Something to ponder as you drink in Salisbury Crags and the views back down.

Calton Hill near Edinburgh including some of the historic buildings on its summit

Calton Hill

Start at the end of Princes Street and climb the staircase up the hill for some of the best views over the city – from here you can see out to the castle and over to Arthur’s Seat.

Home to the National Monument, intended to be a replica of the Parthenon in Athens but never finished, it’s also where you’ll find the huge Nelson monument.

At 1pm, the time ball here drops – designed to be seen by ships far our at sea, the castle’s One O’Clock gun was added as bad weather meant the ball couldn’t always be seen.

Cruise the Firth of Forth

Spot seals and scoff scones, as well as looking out for the three bridges across the Forth, on a boat trip aboard the Maid of the Forth or Forth Boat Tours

The 90-minute three bridges sightseeing tour is one of the most popular, but there are also tours stopping at Inchcolm Island (running from April through the summer months) among other options.

Departing from South Queensferry, it’s around a half hour drive (or train trip and short walk) to Hawes Pier. Save some time to explore the pretty town (technically part of the city of Edinburgh). Grab an ice cream and wander along the waterfront, visit the free Queensferry Museum or visit the stately Hopetoun House.

Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World, included in an earlier version of this post, has since closed

*First published 2020, last updated 2022*

Pin for later: things to do in edinburgh with kids.

My top things to do in Edinburgh with kids, from ideas for rainy days, free things to do with kids and some of the unmissable family attractions in Edinburgh. I've also got ideas for animal lovers, plenty of history, a Harry Potter walking tour and where to get outside with kids in Edinburgh

Disclosure: Contains some affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission.

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Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

Beautiful photos! It has been so long since we have visited Edinburgh – had been hoping to travel there this year but it’s all up in the air now.

I am definitely overdue a visit too – so hard to plan anything now, even in the UK, but I hope we both get that trip to Scotland in soon

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visit edinburgh with toddler

21 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh With Kids + Top Tips

We recently got back from a road trip in Scotland and we had an absolutely amazing time. We started our family trip to Scotland with two days in Edinburgh and then continued on to spend 5 days on the Isle of Skye with kids .

I went into our visit to Edinburgh not expecting to be too dazzled, but I was absolutely blown away. Edinburgh quickly became one of my favorite European cities I’ve ever visited.

I quickly felt the magic that J.K. Rowling must have felt as she wrote Harry Potter while living there. There are colorful buildings around every corner, an epic castle towering over the city, and delicious food everywhere (not to mention delightful locals).

And the best part is that while Edinburgh is a large city- it does not feel overwhelming like so many popular European cities.

*There are affiliate links in this post.  Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more.

Is it Worth it to Visit Edinburgh with Kids?

Definitely! If you are looking for a good city to visit with kids in Europe, then Edinburgh is a great choice. It’s actually one of my favorite European cities we’ve visited as a family!

Edinburgh is a lively city with lots of things to do, but it’s WAY more manageable than visiting somewhere like Paris with kids (which we’ve also done). There are a lot of fun things to do in Edinburgh with kids (which you’ll find in this post) and parents will love it too.

You can even book this private and personalized Edinburgh tour for families (how cool is that?!). If you’re kids love some good storytelling and you want to get as much out of your visit to Edinburgh as you can, you’ll definitely want to check out this private tour .

One downside to Edinburgh is that there are a lot of hills (which can make pushing a stroller a little tiresome). But just come prepared with a good attitude and it will be ok.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh as a Family

I recommend booking accommodations in Edinburgh Old Town. We rented an Airbnb in the Old Town just a 5-minute walk from the Grassmarket area and Victoria Street (some of the cutest areas in Edinburgh). And a not-much-longer walk to the entrance to Edinburgh Castle.

Old, grey and brown rock buildings with colorful storefronts with a castle on a hill in the background in Edinburgh

It was really nice to be so close to some of the main things to see in Edinburgh and not have the stress that comes with traveling into the city each morning.

You’ll definitely want to book accommodations months in advance if you want to find a good place available in the Old Town.

Are There Family-Friendly Tours of Edinburgh?

Yes! You can book this 4-hour, private Edinburgh tour designed specifically for families where you get to walk through Edinburgh with a local guide visiting all of the places that YOUR family want to visit. You can choose places in the Old Town, go hiking to Arthur’s Seat, or do anything else that you think would be perfect for you. Just let the guides know and they’ll make it happen.

You can check out the family-centered Edinburgh tour here to see if it looks like a good fit for you and your kids in Edinburgh.

Map of Family-Friendly Things to Do in Edinburgh

*Use this interactive map to explore the best things to do with kids in Edinburgh, Scotland. Click on the full-screen icon in the top right corner to have this map open in your own Google Maps app or click on the arrow in the top left corner to see a pullout list of all points on the map*

21 Things to Do in Edinburgh Scotland with Kids

1. explore edinburgh castle.

One of my favorite things about Edinburgh is that from almost anywhere in the city, you can look up to find Edinburgh Castle looming over you. Edinburgh Castle was built over 900 years ago atop an ancient, extinct volcano and is known today for being one of the oldest fortified places in Europe.

Woman pushing stroller up pavement to a large grey castle

Much of our experience at the castle was walking along the cobblestone path leading up to the castle and around the various buildings on the castle grounds (like a chapel, the crown jewels, the room Mary Queen of Scots gave birth in, and other various museums).

You have some great views of the city and Arthur’s Seat from Edinburgh Castle. And if you are into cannons, the castle has some great displays for you. You can see Mons Meg, a six-tonne siege gun that could fire up to two miles away, or witness the firing of the one o’clock cannon which is a modern field gun fired each day at 1 pm.

Modern green cannon at Edinburgh Castle

A good thing to know when visiting Edinburgh Castle with young kids is that the castle is hardly stroller accessible. You can make it be if you want, but it’s going to be a lot of pushing up a large hill on cobblestones. We ditched our stroller and opted for the baby carrier which we were happy with.

There is also a great castle gift shop with some gems of gifts for kids. We came away with a cute picture book, but I would have loved to have purchased more.

Woman and child stand on a tiled floor looking at two suits of armor

Castle tickets often sell out months in advance (really, they do) so be sure to get online and book your tickets with plenty of notice.

If your kids are up for it, you may want to book this totally customizable Edinburgh tour for families . You can choose any venue/area of the city to visit. I’m sure the guide would have some great stories to tell the kids about Edinburgh Castle.

2. Play at the Castle Playground in Princes Street Gardens

One of our favorite things we did in Edinburgh with a toddler was playing at the cute castle playground at Princes Street Gardens. Before we travel anywhere, I meticulously research playgrounds in the area so that we have places to visit that I know with 100% surety our kids will love.

Playground shaped like a small castle with a large hill in the background with a castle on top

I’ve even created an entire post about all of the best playgrounds in Paris near top Paris attractions (if you also plan to head there with your kids).

But anyway, the Princes Street Gardens playground is a total hidden gem and an awesome thing to do with your kids in Edinburgh. It’s a pretty large play structure designed to look like a castle. The best part is, the castle playground is sitting in the shadow of the real, Edinburgh Castle up on the hill!

Grey, red and brown playground shaped like a castle with two slides

I love a playground with a good view because then everyone in the family is happy. The rest of Princes Street Gardens is also a nice place to walk through and there are even some kiosks selling treats/drinks if you want to stick around for a while.

Right near the playground is Ross Fountain, a beautiful cast-iron fountain from the 1800s (and a filming location for the film Eurovision).

Turqoise and gold fountain spraying water with large castle on hill in the background

4. Take a Pic of the Castle From Vennel Viewpoint

I couldn’t get enough of the epic Edinburgh castle views from different vantage points in Edinburgh. A popular viewpoint called Vennel Viewpoint is located in the Old Town area up a staircase. It’s a quick detour for a nice photo opportunity.

Stairs leading down to a road with Edinburgh Castle on a hill in the background

You could also get some ice cream from Mary’s Milk Bar (more on that below) at the base of the stairs and take your ice cream up the steps to enjoy it with a view.

5. Take a Family-Friendly Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh

If you are visiting Edinburgh as a Harry Potter-loving family, then you need to book a guided Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh. This 2-hour Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh is a family-friendly tour suited to both kids and adults. You can pass top Edinburgh attractions while also seeing the inspiration for Hogwarts and the final resting place of he-who-shall-not-be-named.

White, orange and blue whimsical storefronts on Victoria Street in Edinburgh Scotland

Or an even better option for your kids may be to book this private tour of the Potter Trail . This way you and your kids will have the space to customize the tour and to ask any questions you may have and hopefully have a better chance for your kids to be (and stay) engaged in the tour.

7. Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard to See Thomas Riddell’s Grave

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must-visit for any Harry Potter-loving child visiting Edinburgh. This churchyard is famous for being home to the tombstones of Tomas Riddell, Potter, McGonagall, and more.

Grey, stone buildings in the background with green grass and grey tombstones

Of course, it is thought that J.K. Rowling received a lot of inspiration from this specific graveyard as she has been quoted for collecting names she likes from all sorts of places.

Take some time to (respectfully and quietly) do a scavenger hunt with your kids to see who can find the most Harry Potter-related names on the tombstones at the Greyfriars Kirkyard.

8. Window shop on Victoria Street

One of my all-time favorite streets in Edinburgh was Victoria Street. Victoria Street is located in Old Town Edinburgh and it is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. (If you want an entire tour dedicated to Harry Potter in Edinburgh check these tours out ).

Anyway, Victoria Street is a super cute, curved street with the most colorful storefronts with *actually* cute shops (think local shops- not crazy tacky tourist shops).

Man pushes stroller up the sidewalk near colorful storefronts

One of the most popular shops on Victoria Street is called Museum Context which sells a curated collection of Harry Potter items plus other unique gifts.

You can also visit the Victoria Street Viewpoint (just up a set of stairs near the end of Victoria Street) to see the adorable street from above.

View looking down at a curved cobblestone street lined with colorful storefronts

9. Play at the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is a great place to take your family to in Edinburgh. It’s a huge museum with all sorts of different collections. There are taxidermied animals (including the first cloned sheep, Dolly), dinosaur exhibits, Formula 1 racing cars, and even play areas created for young kids.

View looking down from balcony of hanging taxidermy animals at the National Museum of Scotland

The museum is (surprisingly) free and a great Edinburgh attraction for kids to have in your pocket in case of rain. We visited the museum around lunchtime and picked up lunch at the museum’s cafe before playing for a couple of hours.

Man pushes stroller past large animal skeleton on display

10. Listen for Bagpipers in Edinburgh

I always love when we come across people playing music on the street and the best part about this is Edinburgh is that it’s usually a bagpiper. We saw bagpipers in two different spots of Edinburgh and I think they can commonly be found there.

Man wearing black with a black hat plays the bagpipes next to a cobblestone street

The first location was coming down the hill from Edinburgh Castle as the road turns into the Royal Mile. The second location was at the base of Scott Monument near Princes Street Garden. The bagpiper near Scott Monument packed up while we were there but he was quickly replaced with a new bagpiper.

This makes me think that bagpipers rotate through these locations throughout the day (especially in peak tourist season). So if you’re on a bagpiper hunt- look in those two spots!

11. Enjoy the Views From Calton Hill

There are a lot of great viewpoints in Edinburgh (like Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and Scott Monument). And another one to add to the list is Calton Hill. Calton Hill is a popular place for walking with a relatively easy walk to the top of the hill (compared to say hiking Arthur’s Seat).

We opted for the views from Calton Hill as we did not have time to hike the Salisbury Crags or Arthur’s Seat, but if we would have time I think we would have enjoyed the views more from there (maybe?).

Woman looks out over hill at a view of an old city with grey buildings

On Calton Hill, you do get views of both Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat which is nice. There are also areas to visit on top of Calton Hill like an observatory, restaurant, and a tower to climb for even better views.

I wasn’t blown away by Calton Hill, but it’s a nice area to walk. Also, the Edinburgh LEGO store is very near Calton Hill which was a good stop for our kiddos on our way back down into the city.

12. Hike to the Top of Arthur’s Seat (an Ancient Volcano)

If you’re looking for something adventurous to do on your trip to Edinburgh with kids, then hiking Arthur’s Seat is for you! Arthur’s Seat is the main peak you see in a group of hills on the edge of Edinburgh. It’s an ancient volcano and it offers some beautiful views of the city.

Large green mountain hill with cliffs on one side overlooking Edinburgh

There are multiple routes to get to the top of Arthur’s Seat, but you can start your research by checking out this 2.4-mile route on All Trails. Without kids, people say it can take 1.5-2 hours to hike to the peak and back. However, if you’ll be hiking with kids I’d definitely plan on 3-4 hours (depending on the age of your kids).

If you don’t want to hike all the way to the top but you still want some good views, consider hiking to the Salisbury Crags.

13. Climb to the top of Scott Monument

Scott Monument is a very unique landmark in Edinburgh dedicated to the writer, Sir Walter Scott. It’s located right on the edge of Princes Street Gardens making it easy to spot.

Woman, man and children in a stroller stand in front of a tall, large structure with multiple spires

You can climb the steps to the top of Scott Monument, however, we opted to stay at the bottom and listen to the bagpiper playing nearby instead. I’ve heard there is almost always a bagpiper near Scott Monument, which is supported by the fact that when we saw one bagpiper packing up, another one quickly filled his spot.

14. Walk the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is probably the most popular street to walk in Edinburgh as it is the main thoroughfare connecting Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace. The street is lined with various historical sites, shops, and restaurants and, as the name implies, is about one mile long.

Man pushes stroller past a black, iron fence with a sign that reads 'Royal Mile' in black and gold

15. Tour Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse is The King’s official residence in Edinburgh and home to much of Scotland’s royal history. You will find it at the opposite end of the Royal Mile with Edinburgh Castle on one end and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other.

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The Palace is a great place to visit with kids! It has a relaxing, fun space designed specifically for families fittingly called, “The Family Room” with stories, dress ups and games. You can also complete fun activities with their interactive ‘Family Activity Trail’ or join one of their kid-friendly weekly workshops.

Learn more about visiting Palace of Holyroodhouse with kids here .

16. Stroll up Cockburn Street (Filming Location for Avengers: Infinity War)

Cockburn Street is another super cute Victorian street in Edinburgh (with similar vibes to Victoria Street). Some even say that this street was also the inspiration for Diagon Alley. It’s got cute coffee shops, restaurants, and local boutiques which then connect you back to the Royal Mile.

Unique, curved corner building with a small sign that reads 'The Milkman' over the store window

Cockburn Street was also a filming location for Avengers: Infinity War if you are into seeing filming locations. What is now The Milkman Coffee Shop was converted into a HĂŒsnu Kebab Shop for the movie.

17. Stroll Through Peaceful Dean Village

Dean Village is a very quiet and quaint area of Edinburgh just a short bus ride from the city center. It’s mainly a lovely place to walk through and find some peace away from the traffic and other noise that comes with a city.

The Water of Leith flows right through Dean Village and creates some pretty picturesque views with the old grey and colorful buildings lining the river. There is also a walking path that goes along the Water of Leith if you want to enjoy the sound of the river for longer.

Calm river goes past old yellow, white and brown brick buildings

There is a verrrrrry small playground (if you can even call it that) in Dean Village. It’s a little bouncy ladybug toy for tiny kids, a bridge leading to nowhere, and three balancing beams.

However, there are also some benches and it’s in a small gated-off area surrounded which does make it a good resting point if you have some small kids that want to run around.

Woman and child play on small play structures with a brown brick building in the background

Our 4-year-old was able to have a good enough play session on the limited play toys along with us doing some major imaginative play. You’ll find the play area (is that what I should call it) on the corner after you go down the hill and cross the bridge across the Water of Leith.

You can find Dean Village by putting it in Google Maps. You can also put Bell’s Brae Bridge into Google Maps and it will take you directly to the bridge over the Water of Leith where so many photos of Dean Village are taken.

We bussed to Dean Village from the National Museum of Scotland and walked back to our Airbnb in the Old Town from there.

18. See Toys From Throughout History at the Museum of Childhood

The Museum of Childhood is Edinburgh’s museum dedicated to all things related to childhood. It has exhibits items dating back to the 1800s and up to the current day of children’s toys, clothes, games, dolls and books.

The museum seems to have less toys to play with and more toys on display, but your kids may still love seeing toys of days gone by!

19. Take Chocolate Factory Tour at The Chocolatarium

I so wish we would have been able to visit The Chocolatarium in Edinburgh, but alas, kids must be ages 6+ to visit which our kids are not.

The Chocolatarium is a chocolate factory in the heart of Edinburgh that you can tour as a family to learn about where chocolate comes from, how it’s made and you even get to make your very own chocolate bar at the end.

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And if that’s not great enough, you get to do a chocolate tasting where you can choose from over 40 chocolate flavors in the Tasting Room!

You’ll find the Chocolatarium just off the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Watch the video below for a glimpse of what your experience can be like!

20. Experience Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

A great rainy-day activity with kids in Edinburgh is to visit Camera Obscura & World of Illusions . It’s located right at the base of Edinburgh Castle and actually has some great castle views from the rooftop (might be worth it to visit just for that).

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Camera Obscura has five floors of fun with 100+ interactive exhibits that are fun for the whole family. Take some crazy pics, check out some mind-bending optical illusions, and take a virtual tour of Edinburgh all from the same place.

21. Visit The Real Mary King’s Close

Older kids may enjoy stepping back in time to visit the Real Mary King’s Close. Real Mary King’s Close (or alley) is Edinburgh’s only preserved street from the 17th century.

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You can take a 1-hour guided tour through the winding alleyways and steps below the Royal Mile with guides in costumes telling stories of the time. One of the ‘residents’ you will meet is the plague doctor (dressed up with the black, beaked mask) and stories are told about disease and death.

You’ll just want to check out their website here to see if it’s a suitable experience for your family at the stage of life they are in.

Places to Eat in Edinburgh Scotland with Kids

1. cold town house.

  • Amazing Rooftop Seating with Castle Views
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free Options Available

If you can pick only one place to eat in Edinburgh with your kids, definitely choose Cold Town House. Cold Town House is amazingly located at the base of Edinburgh Castle in the Grassmarket area of Old Town Edinburgh and is a must-visit.

Woman pushes stroller in front of a brown, brick building with purple flowers growing up the front

Cold Town House serves delicious Neopolitan pizzas in a custom-made pizza oven along with burgers, fries, and lots of other items. I ordered the ‘Meadows’ pizza with a basil pesto base, roasted broccoli, rainbow tomato, mozzarella, and hazelnuts (it was crazy good). My husband got a fennel sausage pizza and the kids shared triple mac & cheese.

But here’s the best part about Cold Town House- the hidden gem of the restaurant is an absolutely amazing rooftop terrace covered in flowers with views of Edinburgh Castle. You would never know it exists just by looking at the outside of the restaurant, but it’s there and it’s amazing.

Woman and child sit at a table with purple flowers hanging overhead and a large castle on a hill in the background

Because of the popularity of the rooftop tables, it’s recommended to book a table online in advance . However, you can always visit Cold Town House and choose to sit inside. You may even get lucky and catch a rugby match on the screens.

If the weather is a bit chilly, they have plenty of heaters and blankets on the rooftop to help make it a cozy experience. And they also have plenty of vegan and gluten-free options if that applies to you. The top things that come to mind are vegan cheese for the pizzas and gluten-free crusts.

2. Mary’s Milk Bar

  • Vegan options available

The gelato at Mary’s Milk Bar is literally some of the best gelato/ice cream I have ever had. It’s located across the street from Cold Town House in the Grassmarket area of Old Town Edinburgh and it often has a line forming out the door (for good reason).

Ice cream cone being held by a hand in front of a pink and white ice cream shop called Mary's Milk Bar

Mary, the owner, trained in Bologna, Italy at Carpigiani Gelato University at makes the gelato fresh each morning until 11 am. She has some of the most unique flavors I’ve ever seen, like goat’s cheese and peach or marsala wine and pear, along with classic flavors like dark chocolate or hazelnut.

Ice cream in bowls with signs stating their flavors

Take your ice cream around the corner and up the stairs to the Vennel Viewpoint or across the street to the lawn at the base of Edinburgh Castle.

  • Can be served without a roll for gluten-free needs

Oink is perfect if you are looking for a quick stop with your family for a takeaway sandwich to take to a park or eat on the go. There are three different locations in Edinburgh so you will probably not ever be too far from finding one.

This counter-service restaurant has a limited menu of different sizes of pulled pork sandwiches and different toppings and sauces. They serve it up right from the roasted pork sitting in the window until 5 pm or they run out. I ordered the pork sandwich on a wheat bun with sage and onion topping and half apple/half bbq sauce (the apple side was my favorite).

Pink, black and blue storefronts with flowers hanging along cobblestone street

We got our sandwiches with chips and their homemade shortbread (which was crazy good) and it was a perfect quick lunch.

4. Makars Mash Bar

  • Vegan and gluten-free options are available

I really wish we would have had time to visit Makars Mash Bar, but alas we did not. Makars specializes in Scottish comfort food with mashed potatoes as the common base with your choice of different toppings.

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Makars has a lot of options for meat eaters, vegetarians, vegans, and those that need gluten-free items. I would have ordered the mashed potatoes with vegetarian haggis. We tried vegetarian haggis at a different location once we headed to the Isle of Skye as a family and it was so, so good.

I would have loved to have tried it as Makars as well. Makars is more of a traditional, sit-down restaurant and our kids weren’t in the mood for a sit-down eating experience when we were nearby. Instead, we headed to Oink for their takeaway pulled pork sandwiches.

5. Hula Juice Bar and Eatery

Hula Juice Bar and Eatery is just the type of place I like to find when traveling. They serve healthy breakfast, brunch, and lunch options in a super cute setting on Victoria Street. They serve smoothies, wraps, sandwiches, bowls, and more.

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It’s so nice to have some healthy food options when on vacation and I can always count on our kids wanting a good smoothie! Hula Juice Bar and Eatery is perfect for just that.

6. Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar

If you want to visit a pub in Edinburgh, Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar is a good option. Out front is the famous statue of a Scottish Terrier that (as the story goes) spent 14 years guarding the grave of his owner.

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Anyway, Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar serves (what appears to be) delicious, traditional savory pies along with many other main dishes. They also have a children’s menu with things like chicken breasts and hamburgers.

We didn’t have time to visit, although Greyfriars Bobby Bar was on our list.

Tips for Visiting Edinburgh with a Toddler or Baby

  • If you are coming with a stroller, be prepared to be pushing it up some big hills. It was still definitely worth it to have our stroller with us, but it did take a little bit of muscle occasionally to get us where we needed to go.
  • One place you may not want to use the stroller is at Edinburgh Castle. I recommend either baby wearing or if your kids are old enough, just encouraging them to walk around and explore sans stroller.
  • If you’re looking forward to eating some good meals in Edinburgh, but the kids aren’t up for going out to eat, you can use Deliveroo or Uber Eats to have meals delivered to your Airbnb or hotel. We do that often when we are traveling and it’s so nice.
  • Be sure to bring lots of layers, including a rain jacket/windbreaker. Edinburgh gets a LOT of rain (even in the summer) and a bit of a breeze and clouds can make it feel chilly. We visited in early April and all were wearing sweaters with light puffy jackets, beanies, gloves, and wool socks.

Sample Two-Day Edinburgh Itinerary For Families

This is pretty much what our 2-day Edinburgh family itinerary looked like:

  • Window Shop on Victoria Street
  • Explore Edinburgh Castle
  • Picked up a takeaway lunch @ Oink
  • Ate lunch at Princes Street Garden & play at the playground
  • Rooftop Dinner @ Cold Town House with views of Edinburgh Castle
  • Ice cream @ Mary’s Milk Bar while sitting on the steps of the Vennel Viewpoint
  • Morning walk to Calton Hill for views of Edinburgh
  • Swing by the LEGO store
  • Look for a bagpiper at Scott Monument and/or climb Scott Monument
  • Lunch at the cafe at the National Museum of Scotland
  • Played at the National Museum of Scotland
  • Find graves that inspired J.K Rowling at Greyfriars Kirkyard
  • Take a stroll through Dean Village

And that’s everything I think you need to know for taking a family trip to Edinburgh. Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments below. I’ll be sure to get back to you!

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

  • The Only Itinerary You Need For a Day Trip to Edinburgh (+ Map)
  • The Ultimate Guide to the Isle of Skye with Kids: 21+ Things to Do & Top Tips
  • 18 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting The Isle of Skye in Scotland
  • 16 Helpful Tips That Make Driving in Scotland Feel Easy

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Toddler Trips

13 Things To Do In Edinburgh With Toddlers

We independently research our recommended products. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our links .

Are you planning on visiting Edinburgh, the lovely Scottish capital, with your family?

Then you’ll be pleased to know that there is certainly no shortage of awesome things to do in Edinburgh with toddlers!

From quirky museums, ancient castles and beautiful beaches to quaint cafes, tranquil parks and countless activities for kids – you can find all the best Edinburgh attractions in this guide. We’ve chosen a selection of indoor and outdoor activities, free and paid.

Let us know which are your top toddler days out in Edinburgh!

Dalkeith Country Park

Best toddler days out in edinburgh, edinburgh castle.

things to do with toddlers in edinburgh

The most popular paid tourist destination in Scotland is Edinburgh Castle, which is a view you certainly can’t miss as it’s perched on a prehistoric volcanic rock. But don’t worry — it’s still accessible with a pushchair.

Explore Edinburgh Castle’s rocky ramparts and prepare to take in the loveliest cityscapes from its ancient gun holes.

The Scottish crown jewels, armour and weaponry on exhibit inside the Great Hall, as well as Mons Meg — one of the biggest cannons on the globe from the Middle Ages — are among the top attractions for children.

A guided tour is included in the castle ticket or you can just wander around the area at your own pace.

Edinburgh Zoo

toddler days out in edinburgh

One of the city’s most popular family-friendly activities is visiting Edinburgh Zoo, home to the only giant pandas and koalas in the UK.

This popular zoo , which houses over 1,000 rare and endangered species and is situated among 82 acres of rolling grassland, is a terrific place to take toddlers when visiting Edinburgh.

There is plenty of room for the youngsters to run around, and the animals are all well cared for in roomy enclosures.

Don’t miss the spectacular penguin parade, which takes place when the King, Gentoo, and Rockhopper penguins emerge from their enclosures and accompany the zookeepers along the parade path.

National Museum of Scotland

places to take toddlers in edinburgh

The magnificent Edinburgh National Museum of Scotland is among the ten most popular tourist attractions in the UK and among the top twenty most frequently visited galleries and museums worldwide.  And it’s free!

One of Edinburgh’s top activities with kids is visiting this fantastic, interactive exhibition space, especially on a gloomy day.

Over 8,000 artefacts are on show at the museum, encompassing everything from world culture and robotics to transportation, science and the environment. Some of the objects date back to the time of the dinosaurs!

But don’t worry; there will be plenty of engaging, hands-on activities to keep the kids occupied.

Children will particularly enjoy the Animal World gallery, which is crammed with plush animals, as well as the Adventure Planet, to explore an oak tree’s roots for creepy crawlies and dig for old dinosaur bones.

Don’t miss the life-size T-Rex skeleton on display!

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

toddler activities in edinburgh

Edinburgh’s Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions is located on the Royal Mile, next to the castle.

The Camera Obscura presentation projects real-time moving pictures of Edinburgh onto the viewing table, which allows you to move people around and even steer vehicles over the paper bridges. It’s really a fantastic way to learn about the city and its history!

The World of Illusions houses the Magic Gallery – where your hands will shine as if you are in an x-ray machine, or you can see clones of yourself in a huge kaleidoscope.

Additionally, there is the Light Fantastic exhibition, boasting astonishing holograms (beware of the monster tarantula!) and the Illusion Lab, which is full of mind-blowing optical illusions. Make your way through the mirror maze if you dare!

Toddlers and young kids will love exploring all the cool stuff here.

Dynamic Earth

best toddler days out in edinburgh

Dynamic Earth takes you on a visually fascinating voyage through time, beginning with the Big Bang and ending with the spectacular Aurora Borealis.

Dynamic Earth offers a 4Dventure, a 4D film adventure, taking you on a journey from the Arctic all the way to the heart of a tropical jungle, bringing you up close to a great white shark, a rhinoceros, and a scorpion!

Also, make sure to check out the ShowDome, Scotland’s first 360-degree dome cinema, which provides a truly mesmerising experience while screening educational movies all year round.

This is a great activity for combining fun with education for your little ones.

Arthur’s Seat

things to do with kids in edinburgh

Did you know that Edinburgh has a dormant volcano in the city centre?

Climbing this ancient volcano is possibly the greatest activity in Edinburgh for kids of all ages. Arthur’s Seat is a member of Edinburgh’s seven hills and can easily be accessed from Edinburgh City centre.

Holyrood Park, which includes the volcano, is only a quick stroll from Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace, the Queen’s residence while she is staying in Edinburgh.

The breathtaking vistas from the summit are truly worth the long hike up the 251-metre slope.

However, if you’re travelling with younger kids who can’t handle walking uphill, you can also get a cab (or drive) up to Dunsapie Loch on the opposite side of the Seat – making it much shorter 15-20 minute-walk to the top!

LOVE Gorgie Farm

toddler activities in edinburgh

Perhaps not the most popular or famous tourist attraction in Edinburgh, but a great one for tiny tots nonetheless, is the LOVE Gorgie Farm.

At this urban farm (previously known as Gorgie City Farm), toddlers can get up close and personal with a range of farm animals – a fantastic treat for those accustomed to city life.

Parents can enjoy a cuppa at the lovely cafĂ© when the little ones are done exploring, too. Plus there’s a brilliant outdoor play area.

The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena

things to do with toddlers in edinburgh

Europe’s biggest indoor climbing arena is just outside Edinburgh and is a great option for rainy-day activities for youngsters in Edinburgh. 

These indoor parks were developed in an abandoned quarry and are one of the best indoor Edinburgh kids activities.

Adrenaline enthusiasts (and older kids) will be thrilled to discover that there is an aerial adventure course which is 30 metres above the ground, and bouldering, in addition to the climbing wall.

The Scrambles soft play area of the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena includes its own mini climbing wall for the very little ones, as well as the Rock Tots Playroom, which includes dress-up, bikes, trikes, a bouncy castle, games, and puzzles.

Once your kiddos have used up their energy, they can recuperate in the cafe before heading to Honey Pot Ceramics for some fun art and crafting!

The Scottish Storytelling Centre

where to take toddlers in edinburgh

At the Scottish Storytelling Centre, you can take a break from touring and relax while listening to a magical tale.

The arts centre hosts many activities all year long, but the Storytelling Court also has an interactive Story Wall.

You can learn more about Greyfriars Bobby as well as other well-known Scottish figures like Nessie and Wee Willie Winkie, and you can hear snippets from some of Robert Louis Stevenson’s well-known stories.

There is a bookstore in the historic John Knox House (be on the lookout for the hidden dragon’s nest!) if you feel compelled to pick up a book to take home.

Princes Street Gardens

best things to do with toddlers in edinburgh

Princes Street Gardens is a stunning and distinctive green space in Edinburgh’s city centre, and enjoying a picnic here is one of the very best things to do with kids in Edinburgh  (as long as it’s not raining, of course) .

Edinburgh’s gardens are separated into two parts – West and East- with acres of magnificent rolling lawns on both sides, ideal for strolling about on a sunny day or enjoying a leisurely family picnic.

The playground, which also has the greatest view of Edinburgh Castle, is located in the far western corner.

The East Garden is transformed into a magical Christmas Winter Wonderland with a magnificent market, fairground activities, an ice skating rink, and a Big Wheel during the holidays .

During the Edinburgh Festival in the summer, a carousel is also set up here, as are numerous temporary bars — something for all the family!

Calton Hill

where to take toddlers in edinburgh

If you want some fantastic views but your little ones can’t manage the climb up Edinburgh’s volcano to the top of Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill is a great alternative. It’s a much shorter climb to the top, but you’ll still enjoy a stunning view of the whole city.

If you’re keen on exploring Edinburgh to the fullest, you’ve got to check out the historical monuments perched upon the hill, too.

Portobello Beach

best toddler days out in edinburgh

The fantastic seaside suburb of Portobello is just a short bus or taxi ride from the city. If you and the kids are feeling brave, take a dip in the North Sea. Otherwise, set up a blanket and simply enjoy the sand!

There are loads of quirky shops and eateries to enjoy in Portobello, too.  Reds  is aimed especially at the younger generation, with an expansive kids’ menu and a soft play area inside, too.

kids in edinburgh

This fantastic country park is absolutely packed with fun things for little ones and their older siblings alike.

The Fort Douglas Adventure Park has slides, climbing frames, tunnels, bridges, and plenty more to tire out your toddler. When they’re finally finished playing, head over to the Restoration Yard restaurant, or pick up a gift there for family back home.

It’s located outside the city centre although only a 5-minute drive from the Edinburgh city bypass, so it’s easy to reach.

Looking for another location? Check out our  Days Out section  for more ideas.

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Sarah Blackwell

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Traverse With Taylor

Traverse With Taylor

| Helping You Experience Europe Easily

visit edinburgh with toddler

29 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids (Free + Paid)

I’ve visited Edinburgh (one of my favorite places) a bunch of times, and I’ve personally done almost all of the items on this list of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids! After my most recent trip last month- where I took 40 kids to Edinburgh with me- I updated this post with all of the most recent top things you should absolutely try if you’re visiting Edinburgh with kids!

Edinburgh, Scotland is amazing. I just returned from a two-week jaunt through Scotland, and I would literally move to Edinburgh if I could. It is the perfect place to visit with your kids: Edinburgh is accessible (you can walk the entire city), kid-friendly, and safe . Plus, there are tons of fun options in Edinburgh for children. Like touring Edinburgh Castle, exploring the Royal Mile, and laughing at Camera Obscura. This post packs in everything you need for an awesome family trip to Scotland’s most fun-filled city. Cool castles that’ll make you feel like you’ve time-traveled, super-fun museums where learning is a blast, and tons of secret spots the locals love. Every recommendation is tried and tested for family fun, so whether you’re up for outdoor adventures or want to soak up some culture, I’ve got you covered.

Traverse With Taylor contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.

🏆 TOP 3 BEST THINGS TO DO IN EDINBURGH WITH KIDS!

Edinburgh Castle is a great thing to do in Edinburgh with kids!

Don’t Miss These Three Things: ✅ Explore the Royal Mile ✅Take a Mary King’s Close Tour ✅ Visit Edinburgh Castle

Top Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

After exploring Edinburgh for days at a time, I still feel like I’m always discovering new things to do that are perfect for kids! Here is a map and a list of the best and most memorable things to enjoy in Edinburgh, Scotland with children of all ages:

Me and my husband standing in the middle of the Royal Mile in Old Town Edinburgh, one of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

1. Walk the Royal Mile

📍 Google Maps Link : The Royal Mile ⭐ Insider Tip: Try one of the famous pubs on the mile and skip many of the overpriced souvenir shops!

The Royal Mile is the most famous street in Old Town, Edinburgh. It was named as such because it is bracketed on both ends by royal residences. At the top of the Royal Mile, you’ll find Edinburgh Castle towering over the rest of the city. It sits high upon the inactive volcano of Castle Rock. At the other end of the Royal Mile, you will find Holyroodhouse Palace , a castle that was once home to Mary Queen of Scots . Walking the Royal Mile is intentionally put at the top of my list for two reasons. First, the Royal Mile is an easy place to begin exploring the city. Second, it is one of my favorite places in Edinburgh. Every time I walk it, I feel as though I’m in the soul of the city. You’ll find numerous pubs (including my favorite one listed below!), magnificent Scottish shops, and you’ll almost certainly encounter a traditional bagpiper. Spend your first afternoon orienting your family on how to get around Old Town Edinburg h as you plunge yourself headfirst into the character and ambiance along the cobblestone streets of the Royal Mile.

✅ Tip : Some of the most amazing food we had in Edinburgh was at Deacon Brodie’s Tavern , which is smack dab in the middle of the Royal Mile. Pop into their upstairs dining area and let your kids try some traditional Scottish fare like haggis or Cullen skink!

A view of Victoria Street in downtown Edinburgh. This street that inspired Diagon Alley is the perfect place to visit with kids.

2. Visit Historic Edinburgh Castle (A Top Thing to do in Edinburgh with Kids)

📍 Google Maps Link : Edinburgh Castle ⭐ Insider Tip: Take a Guided Tour here- the castle grounds are huge!

It’s hard to miss Edinburgh Castle ; you can pretty much see it from anywhere in Edinburgh! It stands on the top of the Royal Mile and has served as a royal residence, a fortress, and even a prison! Edinburgh Castle has a long and colorful history, which is best learned about during a tour of the site! Enjoy a self-paced audio guide tour , or book one of the tours that are offered with guides. You can take an hour-long guided tour, or, if you’re a military buff, book a two-hour tour dedicated just to the military history of the castle. Be prepared to walk, because my kids and I were both definitely stunned by how massive the grounds inside the castle are. Plus, much of the walk is uphill, and there are lots of stairs! Regardless of which tour you decide on, children will be awed by the Scottish Crown Jewels, which are still on display in the Crown Room of the castle. My personal favorite part of Edinburgh Castle was exploring the prisons and torture chambers! Visiting Edinburgh Castle is a must during your time in Edinburgh with kids, and there are so many beautiful photo locations that look out over the entire expanse of the city!

⭐ Feeling Fancy? Book Afternoon Tea at the Edinburgh Castle ! Your tea includes castle admission!

Swords and armor on display in Edinburgh Castle for kids to explore!

3. Dark History Tours in Edinburgh: An Edinburgh with Kids MUST!

📍 Google Maps Link : Real Mary King’s Close ⭐ Insider Tip: The only way to see the underground Edinburgh vaults is via tour!

One of the top things I recommend you do as a family in Edinburgh is take a dark history tour that descends into Edinburgh’s vaults! Every time I’m in Edinburgh, I make it a point to take one of these tours. They seem to get better every single time! Edinburgh is riddled with closes- small alleyways leading who-knows-where, and vaults that run underneath the city. Both of these dark places are alive at night with the large variety of haunted tours that run in Old Town. While the closes and vaults are super creepy, these tours are still a must-do with kids in Edinburgh as they are not too scary for children. Here are the two best dark history tours that I’ve personally done and would recommend in Edinburgh:

A photo of me in Edinburgh with kids at the Real Mary King's Close with the creepy Plague Doctor in the background!

✅ The Real Mary King’s Close

The Real Mary King’s Close is one of the most well-known closes in Edinburgh , and it is my personal favorite. I just recently did this tour again, and it was even better than the first time. It should absolutely top your list of things to do in Edinburgh with kids. You’d never guess the history that lives underneath the Royal Mile! You’ll walk down, under the streets of Edinburgh, and into the old Mary King’s Close. A tour guide walks you down many cobblestone streets and into old vaults, focusing on the history of the black plague and life in old Mary King’s Close. Hear all about old-time quarantine, plague doctors, and even a haunted tale! I loved every second of this tour, and you will too! It was interesting but not too scary- so it’s the perfect Edinburgh attraction for families.

⭐ Book tickets for Mary King’s Close here.

✅ Mercat Tours

Mercat Tours runs multiple different underground and ghost tours in the heart of Edinburgh . You’ll meet your guide right at the Mercat Cross by St. Giles Cathedral and head through the streets of Edinburgh as you learn about old-time body-snatching, graverobbers, and haunted stories! Finally, you’ll descend into the Blair Street Underground Vaults which was SO COOL! The vaults were damp and dark, making the tour even better!

⭐ Note: Mercat Tours is one of the only tour providers in Edinburgh that can actually take you underground into the vaults! Book tickets for Mercat Tours here.

4. Dynamic Earth

📍 Google Maps Link : Dynamic Earth

Children of all ages in Edinburgh will enjoy a visit to Dynamic Earth– an attraction designed to take visitors on a trip through time and space as they explore the evolution of the world from the beginning of time. Included in your ticket is admission to the planetarium, where multiple different movies can be seen as they thunder to life around you. Admission ranges from ÂŁ12.00- ÂŁ19.50, and children under four are free. Book tickets and planetarium viewings in advance HERE!

The view of Edinburgh from the top of Arthur's Seat on Calton Hill, one of the best hikes to do in Edinburgh with Kids.

5. Hike Arthur’s Seat at Calton Hill

📍 Google Maps Link : Arthur’s Seat

King Arthur’s Seat is one of the best places in Edinburgh for an unforgettable view of the city. Located at the end of the Royal Mile, you can find Arthur’s Seat at the very top of the large Calton Hill, overlooking the Palace of Holyroodhouse. As legend has it, many believe that this is the original spot of Camelot, where many of the King Arthur stories take place. Hiking Arthur’s Seat is a great afternoon option for kids who are active! While the hike can be strenuous depending on the route you take, it is worth the approximately two-hour climb . Get some energy out and enjoy the sunlight- the best starting place for your hike is Holyrood Palace.

A cat lounging at Maison de Moggy, one of the best cat cafes in Edinburgh, Scotland.

6. Visit a Cat Cafe (A Rather Unique Thing to do in Edinburgh with Kids-HA!)

📍 Google Maps Link : Maison de Moggy ⭐ Insider Tip: Book a one-hour time slot in advance!

During our trip to Edinburgh in November of 2023, I was shocked by how many of my students wanted to hit the first cat cafe we saw. Literally floored. More than half of our group visited Maison de Moggy , a cat cafe that was about a 5-minute walk from our hotel. It’s right in Grassmarket, so it is very central and easy to get to. I was honestly also shocked by how clean Maison de Moggy was (Can you tell I was skeptical?). You have to remove your shoes before entering, and then you can enjoy a cappuccino (complete with a cat paw in the foam!) and play with one of the 8 cats on the premises. You do have to reserve a 1-hour time slot in advance to visit this cat cafe, and there is a 1-to-1 child to adult ratio required for visiting.

A view of the inside courtyard of the Holyroodhouse Palace.

7. Tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse

📍 Google Maps Link : Palace of Holyroodhouse ⭐ Insider Tip: Combine this with your hike of Arthur’s Seat so you don’t have to venture this far down the Royal Mile twice!

The Palace of Holyroodhouse was built in 1128 and has a long line of interesting history to its name, including originally being a monastery. Currently the official residence of the King when she is in town, the Palace has also been home to Queen Elizabeth, Mary Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. The Palace has large grounds filled with an abbey, gardens, treasures, galleries, and even state apartments and a throne room! Entry to the palace : Book Tickets Here! Included: A multimedia guide

⭐ Holyroodhouse has separate resources for families and children including a free multimedia tour, drawing activities, and even an opportunity to play dress up! You can find the children and families section here !

Me and Stephen casting spells during the Potter Trail Harry Potter tour in Greyfriar's Kirkyard in Edinburgh.

8. The Potter Trail: A Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh

📍 Google Maps Link : The Potter Trail Harry Potter Tour ⭐ Insider Tip : Bring a wand and study up on your trivia! This is an interactive tour!

Many people know that J.K. Rowling spent a significant part of her life in Edinburgh. In fact, many of the Harry Potter books were written in cafes and hotels around the city. Therefore, you’ll find plenty of Harry Potter tours and references around the city. I am a well-proclaimed Potterhead, so I knew the second I was in Edinburgh, I had to take a Harry Potter tour. The Potter Trail is an extremely popular walking tour designed JUST for Harry Potter lovers …and it’s completely free! These tours run for over an hour as guides walk participants through spell-binding locations in the city from Greyfriar’s Kirkyard to Voldemort’s grave and even a visit to Victoria Street (Diagon Alley!). Our tour guide for the Potter Trail, Sam, was absolutely incredible! He made the experience magical and engaging for all of us! Make sure to bring something with you that can be used as a wand –interactive spell-casting is required!

⭐ You can also book a private Potter Trail Harry Potter Tour here!

The iron gate leading into Greyfriar's Kirkyard-- an old church graveyard in the center of Edinburgh that is famous on Harry Potter tours!

9. Explore Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

📍 Google Maps Link : Camera Obscura and World of Illusions ⭐ Insider Tip : Located right on the Royal Mile by Edinburgh Castle- you need about an hour here!

With five entire floors dedicated to illusions, mind games, exploration, and a rooftop terrace with 360° views of the city, Camera Obscura and World of ILlusions is easily one of the neatest attractions for children– whether they are toddlers or young adults. On our recent trip to Scotland, this was one of the things our kids loved the most!

Entry to the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is first-come, first-served. Booking advance tickets is recommended, and there is a discount for purchasing tickets online. Entry Ticket: Ranges from ~ÂŁ15.95-ÂŁ20.95; Children under 5 years old are free. Book tickets here !

A bagpiper on the Royal Mile is a great thing to see in Edinburgh with kids!

10. Enjoy Scares at the Edinburgh Dungeon

📍 Google Maps Link : Edinburgh Dungeon ⭐ Insider Tip : I only recommend for kids over 8 years old- it can be creepy and dark!

Would Edinburgh even be a large European capital city if it didn’t have its own version of the ever-popular Dungeon? I think not. Although considered “touristy,” Edinburgh Dungeon still brilliantly puts on a spellbinding show that is family-friendly but still illustrates the gruesome and hysterical parts of Scottish history . This immersive experience is a great way to get up and moving, laughing, and shrieking (with fear or joy, I’m not sure!), and learn some history while doing it. You’ll visit Edinburgh’s vaults, experience a witch trial, and even witness some medieval torture! Tickets start at ~ÂŁ23.00 B ook Tickets For Edinburgh Dungeon Here!

11. The Scottish Storytelling Centre

📍 Google Maps Link : Scottish Storytelling Centre ⭐ Insider Tip : Check events and showtimes early to plan your itinerary!

You never know just what adventure you’ll find at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Touted as “ A place for Scotland’s stories,” this community center, theater, and performing arts center has something for the whole family. Book tickets in advance for one-of-a-kind, authentic Scottish experiences with locals . My favorite is the Scottish Ceilidh. A ceilidh is a traditional Scottish gathering that includes dancing, storytelling, and other festivities. The one at the Scottish Storytelling Centre brings families together by making it easy to learn folk dances from Scottish history . You’ll make family memories much more valuable than the ÂŁ5 it costs to enjoy this event. Dancing not your jam? There are plenty of other events to choose from including family shows and traditional storytelling of tales such as the selkies .

⭐ Check out current calendar events at the Scottish Storytelling Centre here !

12. Edinburgh Treasure Trail

📍 Google Maps Link : Trail begins on Market Street in Old Town, Edinburgh ⭐ Insider Tip : Download your printable PDF of the Treasure booklet OR request a mailed one HERE!

Is there any better way to orient yourself to a new city than by completing a treasure hunt !? For just ÂŁ9.99, up to five people can embark on a mystery-solving treasure hunt involving history, piracy, and riches. The Treasure Trail booklet is downloadable online and can be completed at your own pace, making it a simple thing to do in Edinburgh with kids during a free afternoon. The hunt takes place in the Old Town area of Edinburgh and takes about two hours to complete on average. With text message clues available if you get stuck, you’re sure to solve this mystery as a family in no time!

At the end of a close in Edinburgh stands a statue dressed in a kilt below a sign that reads "Celtic Craft Center-Kiltmaker"

13. Visit Edinburgh Zoo

📍 Google Maps Link : Edinburgh Zoo

Seeing animals is always a highlight for kids, and the Edinburgh Zoo will be no exception! Edinburgh Zoo hosts a ton of different animal encounters , including giraffes, tigers, pandas, and Europe’s largest outdoor penguin pool. Tickets are cheaper when purchased online in advance. I recommend booking a timeslot here . Tickets range from ÂŁ15.70-ÂŁ24.75. Children under 3 are free.

Scots Monument lit up at night during the holidays in Edinburgh- climb it with kids!

14. Climb Scott Monument in Princes Street Gardens

📍 Google Maps Link : Scott Monument

Take the kids to one of the most well-known locations in Edinburgh. Located right in Princes Street Gardens, Scots Monument is a great place for children because you can climb to the top of the monument! It’s the perfect place to allow the kids to get some energy out, and the top of the climb comes with fantastic views across Old and New Town Edinburgh. After you’ve managed the 287 steps, anyway! There is a charge to climb Scots Monument, but you can just pay when you get there! No reservations required.

15. Chocolate Making Tour

📍 Google Maps Link : Chocolatarium

Has your child ever watched Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and wished they could spend a day in a chocolate factory? Now they can! One of the tastiest places to visit in Edinburgh, Scotland, is The Chocolatarium . This chocolate factory won the #1 Best Food Experience in the UK in 2022! On this tour, you’ll see how the chocolate is made, sample exotic chocolates from around the world, and even create your own chocolate to try and bring home. ⭐ B ook your Chocolatarium tour here!

16. Explore Royal Yacht Brittania

📍 Google Maps Link : Royal Yacht Brittania ⭐ Insider Tip: The Royal Yacht Brittania is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Edinburgh, so book your tickets in advance!

Head down to Leith Walk and hop on board the Royal Yacht Brittania for a tour around Queen Elizabeth II’s original floating palace. This ship contains five full floors to explore, and you can even have tea on board at the Royal Deck Tearoom! Kids will love the opulence of the state apartments and the feel of being on deck this massive yacht! The tram now runs to Leith, so it is extremely easy to get here from center city Edinburgh, and there are some amazing new restaurants and stores along the Water of Leith that are well worth trying!

17. Watch a Show at the Edinburgh Playhouse

📍 Google Maps Link : Edinburgh Playhouse

The Edinburgh Playhouse is the United Kingdom’s largest working theatre. Each month, there are a variety of performances happening, making seeing a show a fantastic thing to do in Edinburgh with kids. There is sure to be something for everyone from orchestras to musicals and even comedians. In the next year alone, catch presentations of “Shrek the Musical,” the Nutcracker ballet, and a Greatest Showman singalong! See what’s on and buy tickets for upcoming shows here.

A view from below Edinburgh Castle. Exploring this castle is super cool for kids in Edinburgh who love knights and swords!

18. Enjoy a Proper Afternoon Tea in the United Kingdom

📍 Google Maps Link : Georgian Room at the Dome or Clarinda’s Tearoom (closed in January!) ⭐ Insider Tip: Try scones, tea sandwiches, and quiche!

Is there anything more charming than enjoying Afternoon Tea? I think not. There are loads of unique places to have a proper afternoon tea party in Scotland – Edinburgh, in particular! No matter where you go, your family will remember the experience forever! For a Lavish Afternoon Tea Experience , book tea in the Georgian Room at the Dome . You’ll be surrounded by gorgeous chandeliers and elegance. Plus, they have a separate tea menu just for children! Another amazing option in Old Town Edinburgh, located right on the Royal Mile, is Clarinda’s Tea Room. Afternoon tea here somehow feels just like home in a quaint, cozy space with loads of character and delicious pastries and quiches. I was here during a rainy afternoon, and it was the perfect place to escape the weather and I devoured literally everything we ordered! It was so yummy!

Clarinda's Tea Room in Edinburgh, Scotland- a fantastic place to have afternoon tea and a great thing to do in Edinburgh with kids.

19. Break Out of an Escape Room

📍 Google Maps Link : Escape Reality Edinburgh ⭐ Insider Tip: Most appropriate with older kids!

Looking for an exciting adventure in Edinburgh with the kids? Escape rooms are a fantastic option! They’re not just exciting and mysterious; they’re also a great way to encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and a whole lot of fun. In Edinburgh, you’ll find a variety of escape rooms that are perfect for families, offering a range of themes and difficulty levels to suit everyone’s taste.

One top pick is Escape Reality Edinburgh, known for its immersive themes and challenging puzzles. With six different rooms to choose from, there’s something for every family. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss the Department of Magic, where you can immerse yourself in the world of witches and wizards.

20. See the Spirit of Scotland Show

📍 Google Maps Link : Spirit of Scotland Show

A fantastic thing we did with kids in Scotland that I would’ve totally overlooked (and almost cancelled) was the Spirit of Scotland show and dinner. This dramatic performance shows the history of Scotland through famous Scottish traditions like the Address to a Haggis, traditional bagpiping performances, and Scottish dancers. I even got pulled up to polka with a bagpiper in full dress! It was hilarious (Okay, the kids loved laughing at me!) The show can be a little longer (about 2 hours), so this may be best for older kids, or prepare to leave halfway through.

21. Ride the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus

Look- I’ll be the first to admit that a ride on the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus in any city is bound to be touristy, but they’re popular for a reason. Walking around Edinburgh is the best way to explore the city, but that can be tough on little feet. A way to fix that would be to take a tour around the city on the bus. The Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus has 14 different stops situated throughout Edinburgh , ranging from a stop at Dynamic Earth to a stop at the Burns Monument, and two different stops on The Royal Mile! This is a great way to tour the city and cuts down on travel time between attractions for sure! Your ticket is valid for 24 hours, meaning if you buy it at the right time…you can technically get part of two days! Book Hop On Hop Off Bus Tickets Here! The best part? Up to three kids ride free with a paying adult!

22. Edinburgh International Climbing Arena

📍 Google Maps Link : Edinburgh International Climbing Arena ⭐ Insider Tip: This is the perfect spot on a rainy day in Edinburgh with kids!

Rainy day in Edinburgh? Head over to this indoor climbing arena that will allow kids to blow off some steam! One of the best-kept secrets as far as unique places in Edinburgh goes is the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena. It is Europe’s largest indoor climbing space with tons of things to do for the whole family. Though you’ll have to head a few minutes outside the city center, this space has multiple rock walls for adults, a clip-and-climb option for kids, a bouldering space, and even a soft play area for younger children. Rates vary based on activity and time. View pricing and book a time here.

The Best Free Things to Do With Kids in Edinburgh

Budgeting for a trip can be tough, so I am always looking for things to do that are free (or cheap!). I’ve compiled below some of my favorite free things to do in Edinburgh with children.

23. Walk Through Princes Street Gardens

📍 Google Maps Link : Princes Street Gardens

The most-visited park in Edinburgh, Princes Street Gardens, is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. Within this area, you’ll find all types of attractions such as the Scott National Monument , erected to pay homage to the Scottish author, Sir Walter Scott . Enjoy a picnic in the gardens, ride the Festival Wheel – a large ferris wheel and one of the most popular things to do in Edinburgh with kids- or, explore other monuments like the Royal Scott Monument. Best of all, be sure to visit Princes Street Gardens if you’re traveling to Edinburgh during the holidays. Between Thanksgiving and the New Year, this area transforms into Scotland’s Winter Wonderland – the Edinburgh Christmas Market! I’ve been to the Christmas market in Edinburgh twice now, and I would highly recommend it for rides, delicious food, mulled wine, local souvenirs, and, of course, Christmas cheer!

🚹 You may see other articles that mention a castle playground in Princes Street Gardens, but that playground has, sadly, been demolished . As of late 2023, it is not there.

24. The Royal Botanic Gardens

📍 Google Maps Link : Royal Botanic Garden

An oasis in the middle of the city, the Royal Botanic Gardens is a stunning place to get away and spend some time in nature. Nature trails that span more than 70 acres mean there is plenty of space to get lost while exploring the curated gardens. If your kids need to burn off some steam and let loose, this is the place! Entry to the gardens is free.

The paella stand at the Grassmarket Market on Saturday mornings in Edinburgh.

25. Explore Grassmarket Market or Edinburgh Farmer’s Market (And Sample Some Scottish Food!)

📍 Google Maps Link : Grassmarket Market & Edinburgh Farmer’s Market ⭐ Insider Tip: My favorite things to grab are fresh Isle of Skye cheese, Lemon Curd, and a piping hot, handmade sausage roll! YUM!

One of my favorite things to do in Edinburgh is wander the local markets. My two favorites are the Grassmarket Market and the Edinburgh Farmer’s Market. Both markets run on Saturday mornings! At the bottom of Victoria Street in Edinburgh lies the Grassmarket area of the city. This neighborhood has a large array of stores, restaurants, and boutiques. It also hosts the Grassmarket Market. Here you can find many stalls full of vendors making street food (hello fresh sausage rolls!) and selling unique souvenirs and goods! Kids will also love spending some time meandering through the streets and enjoying local snacks or a meal at one of the restaurants!

For example, we love Mary’s Milk Bar for some authentic hot chocolate or gelato or the Last Drop for some amazing fish and chips!

⭐ If you walk 5 minutes past Grassmarket Market, you will find the Edinburgh Farmer’s Market along the Castle Terrace! This was the highlight of my recent trip to Edinburgh, and I bought tons of delicious local cheese, jams, and even coffee!

26. The National Museum of Scotland

📍 Google Maps Link: National Museum of Scotland ⭐ Insider Tip: This museum is free AND centrally located. Pop in when it’s convenient!

The National Museum of Scotland boasts 7 floors of historical artifacts and exhibits for visitors to enjoy. And many are awed by the prehistoric Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton that hangs in the Animal World exhibit. However, add to that chess pieces from the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone movie, Viking artifacts, Egyptian relics, and other animals like a polar bear, and the National Museum of Scotland is a world to explore. My kids said that this was the best museum they visited during our recent trip abroad to Scotland and Ireland, and that’s saying something! You could seriously spend hours in here! Entry to the museum is free!

A view of center city Edinburgh, Scotland, with Edinburgh Castle in the background. Exploring the city is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Top Day Trips To Take From Edinburgh With Children!

There are plenty of day trips from Edinburgh- but some are just too long or not interesting enough for children. Here are a few of the day trips that I would recommend for children from Edinburgh:

A highland cow in the Highlands of Scotland- kids in Edinburgh will love petting these!

27. Visit the Highlands, Explore a Castle, and See Highland Cows!

A trip to Scotland is not complete without seeing some Hairy Coos ! Hairy Coos are native to Scotland and are some of the country’s most lovable creatures. A day trip from Edinburgh is the perfect way to experience some smaller villages in Scotland as you tour some of the bigger sites (can you say castles?!?) to see in the Highlands , and see hairy coos! Children of all ages will enjoy running around Stirling Castle, riding a boat on Loch Lomond, and exploring the Highlands.

⭐ This day trip to the Highlands combines so many fun things into one jam-packed day of excitement. You’ll see the world-famous Kelpies, visit Trossachs National Park, feed hairy coos, see Stirling Castle, and visit Loch Lomond.

28. Visit Loch Ness and Search For Nessie

Jump on a tour bus and get out of the city from Edinburgh to the Inverness-area for a trip to see the world-famous Loch Ness Monster! You’ll stop in Glencoe, a village nestled in the Highlands, and continue on to the world-famous Loch Ness! At Loch Ness , you can opt to take a one-hour cruise on the loch to search for The Loch Ness Monster, more fondly named Nessie. This ride is one of the top things I recommend for travelers because it brings the legend of Scotland to life for the little ones. Even though you won’t get the chance to stay in Inverness , you’ll still experience some of it!

✈ Explore Loch Ness day trip experiences here!

The three sisters peaks in Glencoe, which is located in the Scottish Highlands.

29. The Ultimate Harry Potter Location Tour

Have a kid who is a massive Potterhead? What better way to spend the day than to travel to film locations around Scotland together? On this tour that departs from Edinburgh, you will ride the famous Hogwarts Express and see the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Other locations include the loch from The Chamber of Secrets and film scenes from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

✈ This tour creates all the magic for you so that you and your Potterhead can enjoy seeing places you’ve only dreamt of!

FAQ: Edinburgh With Children

Here are some of the things I am most frequently asked when it comes to the subject of traveling in Edinburgh, Scotland with little ones:

Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting With Kids?

Edinburgh is one of the best cities in Europe to visit with kids! There is so much to do for children, from interactive museums to city games, music events, storytelling, and hikes to plenty of day trips…and of course, my kid’s favorite, the bagpipers! Plus, Edinburgh is so walkable and compact that it makes it a brilliant place to travel with kids simply because you don’t have to worry too much about getting around!

Is Edinburgh Castle Suitable For Kids?

Absolutely! Edinburgh Castle is filled with attractions for kids. My students loved seeing the Crown Jewels, the Royal Apartments, and the different types of weapons. Plus, everyone loves exploring the creepy dungeons! Edinburgh Castle as a whole is great for kids, and I particularly love that they put together activities specifically meant for little ones! The only thing I’d caution is that much of the walk up into and though Edinburgh Castle is uphill. It may be difficult on little legs!

Which is Better For Kids, Glasgow or Edinburgh?

I just traveled to both of these cities in the past month with kids, and I can confidently tell you that not one of the 40 students I traveled with preferred Glasgow. Edinburgh far outweighs Glasgow when it comes to things to do, places to explore, and even the overall character of the city. In fact, I wouldn’t bother taking kids to Glasgow again. It is more a city for older individuals who can appreciate culture and adult activities.

Conclusion: Visiting Edinburgh, Scotland With Littles

Edinburgh is the perfect European city to visit with kids. My kids are always begging to go back, and we truly loved our time there. With the 27 best things we’ve listed to do in this city in Scotland, there are things to do with children of any age. Have the time of your life making memories as a family in Edinburgh!

Traveling to Scotland Soon? Here are Some More Helpful Posts âŹ‡ïž

✔ Grab my 2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary so you can plan out the BEST days in the city! ✔ Need a Hotel? Here are ALL of the best places to Stay in Edinburgh . ✔ AND All of the best Spa Hotels in Edinburgh! ✔Is Scotland Even WORTH Visiting? Here’s what you need to know. ✔ Wondering How To Get Around Edinburgh? (Hint: You can use Uber! ) ✔ If You’re Traveling to Inverness, Make sure to Try the BEST Afternoon Tea Spots ✔And… here’s how you’ll want to get from Inverness to Loch Ness (a can’t miss!)

The best things to do in Edinburgh with Kids!

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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THE 10 BEST Family & Kid Activities in Edinburgh

Things to do in edinburgh with kids.

  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Princes Street and Gardens
  • Southside & Holyrood
  • Broughton & Calton
  • Stockbridge & Dean Village
  • Grassmarket
  • Murrayfield
  • Bruntsfield
  • Good for Kids
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Hidden Gems
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Adventurous
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

visit edinburgh with toddler

1. Royal Yacht Britannia

NorthStar474947

2. Arthur's Seat

Kcastle2468

3. Edinburgh Castle

Voyage51723312890

4. National Museum of Scotland

493damienm

5. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

hannahbower

6. Edinburgh Old Town

MermaidMarin

7. Royal Mile

mojomo

8. The Chocolatarium

R6278CPharryp

9. Calton Hill

andybell123

10. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

simonrstones

11. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

491peas

12. Princes Street Gardens

GedCT

13. Dean Village

ldjs

14. BobCat Alpacas

Trip04730244407

15. Holyrood Park

timothyh19

16. Inchcolm Abbey and Island

D3tour

17. Edinburgh Zoo

PeaceTranquilityLife

18. Dynamic Earth

mhairi_mcmillan

19. Craigmillar Castle

Carmenda

20. Scott Monument

malc1005

21. Grassmarket

997briant

22. Greyfriars Bobby

JTJD

23. Edinburgh iCentre

Ghadeer2014

24. Festival Theatre

438karlj

25. Water of Leith Walkway

mrspink

26. Dominion Cinema

neilrenton01

27. Jupiter Artland

W4837ZAmariew

28. Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium

simonbO1383QO

29. Pentland Hills

macedonboy

30. Museum On The Mound

RobandCarrie

What travellers are saying

Lesleydunning

THE 10 BEST Edinburgh Things to Do with Kids

Things to do in edinburgh with kids.

  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Princes Street and Gardens
  • Southside & Holyrood
  • Broughton & Calton
  • Stockbridge & Dean Village
  • Grassmarket
  • Murrayfield
  • Bruntsfield
  • Good for Kids
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Hidden Gems
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Adventurous
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

visit edinburgh with toddler

1. Royal Yacht Britannia

NorthStar474947

2. Arthur's Seat

Kcastle2468

3. Edinburgh Castle

Voyage51723312890

4. National Museum of Scotland

493damienm

5. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

hannahbower

6. Edinburgh Old Town

MermaidMarin

7. Royal Mile

mojomo

8. The Chocolatarium

R6278CPharryp

9. Calton Hill

andybell123

10. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

simonrstones

11. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

491peas

12. Princes Street Gardens

GedCT

13. Dean Village

ldjs

14. BobCat Alpacas

Trip04730244407

15. Holyrood Park

timothyh19

16. Inchcolm Abbey and Island

D3tour

17. Edinburgh Zoo

PeaceTranquilityLife

18. Dynamic Earth

mhairi_mcmillan

19. Craigmillar Castle

Carmenda

20. Scott Monument

malc1005

21. Grassmarket

997briant

22. Greyfriars Bobby

JTJD

23. Edinburgh iCentre

Ghadeer2014

24. Festival Theatre

438karlj

25. Water of Leith Walkway

mrspink

26. Dominion Cinema

neilrenton01

27. Jupiter Artland

W4837ZAmariew

28. Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium

simonbO1383QO

29. Pentland Hills

macedonboy

30. Museum On The Mound

RobandCarrie

What travelers are saying

Lesleydunning

girl gone london

33+ Delightful Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids (2024)

This post contains affiliate links for which I may make a small commission to help keep the site running. You will not be charged extra for these items had you not clicked the links. Thank you for your help to keep the site running!

Taking the kids to Edinburgh?

In addition to being an incredibly historic and cultural city, Edinburgh is super kid-friendly and there are plenty of things for kids to do in Edinburgh – both some that are free and some with an entrance fee.

It doesn’t matter how old your children are, either.

Little ones are catered to with amazing indoor softplay areas (I am just dying to try the rope swings at Timetwisters for myself, but I’m a bit too over the 12 year old age limit).

Elementary or primary aged children are taken care of with some awesome interactive museums and lots of dress-up chances at places like the National Museum of Scotland.

visit edinburgh with toddler

⭐️ Editor’s choice! ⭐️

The best thing to do in Edinburgh with kids is this family-friendly chocolate making experience (Scottish themed!) (5 out of 5 ⭐️, 1,900 + reviews)

>>Click here to book in advance (recommended)

Even teenagers will find a world of opportunity at cultural attractions like Edinburgh Castle and natural hangout spots like Portobello Beach.

Check out this list of things to do in Edinburgh with kids to help you plan your Edinburgh trip so that everyone gets to do something they enjoy.

Also, don’t forget to check out my guides to the most enchanting free things to do in Edinburgh , what to do in Edinburgh in the evening , and the ultimate list of things to do in Edinburgh in the rain because – well, if you’ve ever been to Scotland, you’ll know what I’m talking about!

Edinburgh with Kids At-a-Glance

  • Best walking tour with kids: this magical Harry Potter Edinburgh walking tour
  • Best attraction with kids: Edinburgh castle ( get the cheapest tickets here )
  • Best way to get around Edinburgh with kids: this hop-on and hop-off bus tour

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Cultural Things to do with Kids in Edinburgh

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1. St. Giles Cathedral

visit edinburgh with toddler

One of Edinburgh’s most recognizable landmarks is also a kid-friendly place to go in Edinburgh.

St. Giles Cathedral is a great free thing to do with kids in Edinburgh, and it will especially appeal to elementary school aged children or teenagers.

Teach them about the history of the landmark, as it has been on the same site since 1124 and was a site of the Scottish Reformation.

You can enter as a visitor at most times of the day, though the church does close to public visitors for worship times, when it is only open if you’re attending a worship service.

Address: High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE

visit edinburgh with toddler

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in Edinburgh?

My favorite hotel in Edinburgh for all visitors is the Six Brunton Place guest house ( click here to check prices ).

2. Edinburgh Castle

visit edinburgh with toddler

One of the top attractions in Edinburgh also just happens to be a great attraction in Edinburgh for children.

Edinburgh Castle is hard to miss, as it sits on top of a hill and at the end of the Royal Mile (all roads seem to lead to the Royal Mile in Edinburgh).

It has great views from the top, but it also has fascinating exhibits to interest kids and adults alike inside.

The castle has an important history being used for defense of Edinburgh and dates back to the 12 th century.

You can also see the Scottish crown jewels inside, which is great to compare to the English Crown Jewels if you’ve been to the Tower of London.

In the summer months, the castle is open a bit later until around 6pm, while in the winter it closes earlier to accommodate for fewer daylight hours.

visit edinburgh with toddler

3. Climb the Scott Monument

visit edinburgh with toddler

Ready to burn some energy?

This monument to Sir Walter Scott provides incredible views of Edinburgh once you get to the top.

There are 287 steps with various landing levels for you to stop, and the walls get much narrower as you reach the top.

Teenagers will be able to handle this walk the best, but elementary aged children could also handle it if you take your time on the way up.

Looking for a little history?

You should know that the Scott Monument was inaugurated in 1846 and that there are 64 figures on the spire, which represent characters from his novels.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

  • Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
  • International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

4. Walk the Royal Mile

visit edinburgh with toddler

One of the best thoroughfares in all of Edinburgh is a great place to get a glimpse of some of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks, and there is plenty to see so the kids won’t get bored.

The Royal Mile leads from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace and you’ll find a ridiculous amount of cashmere shops and pubs and cafes along the way.

You can visit at both day and night – it’s safe during either and has a different atmosphere in both.

If nothing else, it’s a great way to acclimate yourself to the city when you first arrive and let the kids point out what they’re interested in doing and seeing during your stay.

5. Ghost Tours with Mercat Tours

A black bus for ghost tours in Edinburgh

Ghost tours aren’t typically on my list of things to do with children in Edinburgh just because I’m 27 and terrified of ghost tours myself, BUT, if you go with Mercat Tours , there is a kid-friendly ghost tour option that happens during the daytime and cuts a lot of the horrific gore out and leaves the fun stories!

If you do have teenagers or older children who like to be scared, then you can book onto a walk like the Ghostly Underground tour which takes you, as suggested, into Edinburgh’s underground tunnels where you’ll learn all the horrid stories about what happened here.

6. The Georgian House

visit edinburgh with toddler

Get a bit of history into the kids at the Georgian House , a super fun building filled with dress up options for the smaller children and fun exhibits for the older ones all about how residents would have lived in this house back in the 1700s.

The building was designed by Robert Adam and was truly a luxurious piece of property for its day.

As you explore, you’ll notice paintings by famous Scottish artists, rooms fitted out with furniture used back in the day, and a movie that explains more about what life would have been like inside the Georgian House.

Sometimes, finding things to do with children in Edinburgh feels like choosing between education and fun, but the Georgian House brings those two things together in a way that both parents and kids will enjoy.

Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids in Nature

7. jupiter artland.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Finding things to do in Edinburgh with children is pretty easy when you’ve got amazing sculpture parks like Jupiter Artland to explore.

This beautiful park is just west of Edinburgh and is open between May and September.

In those months, it’s a gorgeous play to see a beautiful interaction between art and nature.

Contemporary artists have basically used the landscape and other elements of Mother Earth to create natural sculptures that make you think.

In good weather, Jupiter Artland is on my top list of places to go on Edinburgh.

Address: Bonnington House Steadings, Wilkieston, Edinburgh EH27 8BY

8. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

visit edinburgh with toddler

For a relaxing day out, take the kids to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh .

In addition to beautiful gardens, there are some lovely greenhouses set to tropical temperatures so you can walk around pretending you’re in the Caribbean and not freezing in the Edinburgh winds!

In the summer in Edinburgh, take more advantage of the gardens and spend some time walking around and having lunch under a tree or seeing how many different kinds of flowers you can spot.

Entrance to the greenhouses cost money, while entrance to the garden is free.

With over 70 acres to explore and about 100,000 plants, though, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth and add it to your list of favorite things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Address: Arboretum Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5NZ

9. Edinburgh Zoo

visit edinburgh with toddler

Sometimes I think one of the biggest ways to identify a great city is by a great zoo.

And Edinburgh Zoo does not let Edinburgh down!

Take the kids to the Edinburgh Zoo to see the adorable giant panda exhibit, check out the penguins (who I love watching on the Zoo livecam in the snow) and go to talks on everything from meerkats to Chimpanzees.

Edinburgh Zoo prides itself on being a leading member of conservation efforts, which means you’ll not only learn about the beautiful animals they have living at the zoo, but you’ll also figure out how best to protect them and how the zoo helps them to thrive in their natural environments.

10. Inverleith Park

visit edinburgh with toddler

When you need an escape from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh, bring the children to Inverleith Park.

You’ll soon be surrounded by marshland and dog walkers, which to be honest is my kind of afternoon.

Here, you’ve got open spaces, a kid’s playground for the small ones, and sports fields if you bring a soccer ball and want to start up a game.

There’s also a lovely bridge and marsh with a pond, as well as viewing places where you can see fireworks over Edinburgh Castle during special events.

In addition to having lots of places to play, there are also quiet places and spaces to relax and meander among the park.

Take the kids here to chill, relax, zen out – whatever it is, refresh and energize before carrying on with your day.

11. Portobello Beach

visit edinburgh with toddler

So, I had no idea there was a beach in Edinburgh until the last time we visited, but I’ve got to tell you the secret: there is a sandy beach in Edinburgh and YES, you should take the kids!

Portobello Beach is a free beach filled with two miles of sand and surf, and especially in the summer, you can spend the whole day here building sandcastles and swimming in the sea.

The area is lovely, with cozy coffee shops and an awesome high street that you can stop and shop in.

Plan ahead and bring the family to a concert or a volleyball competition.

This is a lovely kid-friendly thing to do in Edinburgh due to the family-friendly nature, awesome views and of course the ice cream trucks.

Museums for Kids in Edinburgh

12. museum of childhood.

visit edinburgh with toddler

You don’t have to be a child to enjoy the Museum of Childhood , but it definitely is a place for the kids to go and see the toys of years past and get to try some of them out.

This is the first museum of its kind that was dedicated to the culture of childhood and preserving toys and childhood culture, which also means adults will take great joy in seeing toys from their own childhoods.

Of course, no one visiting would be old enough to remember playing with the Queen Anne Doll on display, as this dates back to 1740, but perhaps you remember the Peter Rabbit toy.

The great part about the Museum of Childhood is that its not too big, so perfect for not losing the kids in, and its location is smack dab on the Royal Mile, meaning you don’t have to go too far out of your way from other attractions to enjoy this kid-friendly attraction in Edinburgh.

Address: 42 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TG

13. Museum on the Mound

visit edinburgh with toddler

Money, money, money!

Kids might not be able to make it themselves except for perhaps the occasional lemonade stand, but this museum all about money and its history will still prove fascinating, particularly for school aged and older children.

In addition to displays focusing on the history of money in Edinburgh and the items that used to be used as currency (it comes as no surprise to anyone that tea is one of those items!), there are also super fun interactive exhibits that let you try to break open a safe and see a million pounds in person.

14. Dynamic Earth

visit edinburgh with toddler

Mother Nature is pretty freaking cool, right?

And going to a museum in Edinburgh that your kids will love is equally cool, right?

Dynamic Earth seriously has it all.

This museum focuses on everything Planet Earth, from the powers of nature to the polar ice caps to the Earth’s atmosphere to the depths of the ocean.

It’s interactive and engaging – no boring display cases here.

Kids and adults alike will fall in love with this unique attraction and the 5 star rating from other visitors show how well-loved it is!

It’s also an indoor attraction, which means you’re safe from the elements – win-win!

15. St. Cecilia’s Hall: Music Museum

visit edinburgh with toddler

Music lovers, listen up!

Show your kids the wonderful world of Edinburgh’s most prized musical instruments at St. Cecilia’s Hall Music Museum .

I have no musical ability whatsoever, but that doesn’t stop me from enjoying the awesome exhibits here.

Show the kids a harpsichord, explain to them all about the instrument conservation that takes place here, and see if you can catch a concert!

The museum is within a concert venue and is open to the public most days of the week.

It’s a great educational museum for children in Edinburgh and is not to be missed.

16. National Museum of Scotland

Three planes hanging from the roof of the National Museum of Scotland

Kids will absolutely love the kid-friendly interactive exhibits at the National Museum of Scotland.

It’s one of my favorite things to do in Edinburgh with kids simply because it’s so large the whole family can enjoy it together.

There are plenty of games for the kids that allow them to test out their own strength with a pulley system, try their hand in a flight simulator, or discover the secrets of the underwater world.

For adults, there’s a nice large cafĂ© and other exhibits that are focused on historic artifacts so you can browse adjacent rooms while the kids lose their mind with all the fun to be had.

The history of the National Museum of Scotland in recent years goes back to 2006, when the Museum of Scotland and the Royal Museum merged to form the museum today.

This is why you’ll notice two different types of architecture within the museum.

Oh, and HAVE I MENTIONED THIS IS ALL COMPLETELY FREE? Because, yes – please.

Address: Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF

17. Deep Sea World

visit edinburgh with toddler

Take the kids just a short hop from Edinburgh to Fife to see one of Scotland’s best Aquariums, Deep Sea World .

Immerse yourself in an underwater world filled with fish, sharks, seals and amphibians.

The animals are kept in as close to their natural habitat as possible so you can see how they interact with the world around them.

There are a variety of kid-friendly talks on every day if you want a more educational visit, or you can just explore for yourselves and let the kids take the lead on where to go as you wind your way through this family attraction.

Artistic Things to do with Kids in Edinburgh

18. doodles.

visit edinburgh with toddler

For the artistic child, try Doodles Edinburgh !

This ceramic making factory is a perfect kid-friendly attraction in Edinburgh as they can pick out their own ceramic item and then paint it themselves with whatever colors they prefer.

This is open to people of all ages, so the adults can do it alongside the kids.

Paint a mug to bring back for grandma, paint a plate to take home or paint an ornament to give to a friend.

You’ll need to be in Edinburgh for a while in order to get your creation glazed as it takes 3 or 4 days before you can pick it up.

19. City Chambers to see JK Rowling’s Handprints

Got some Harry Potter loving kids?

They’ll enjoy seeing JK Rowling’s Handprints on the ground just outside City Chambers.

City Chambers is right off the Royal Mile so it’s only a quick stop on your way to or from something else, but it’s cool to see her handprints and learn about the Edinburgh Award she won in 2008 for the honor she brought to the city with her magical world of Harry Potter.

You get bonus points if the kids show up wearing their robes with wands at the ready!

20. Camera Obscura

visit edinburgh with toddler

Camera Obscura and the World of Illusions is the kid-friendly Edinburgh attraction that we all wish we could go to every day of the week.

It’s just off the Royal Mile so easy access for most people in the city, and it’s open pretty late into the evening so -boom.

After dinner entertainment sorted!

Inside this attraction, you’ll find a bunch of illusions and tricks of the eyes that will entertain even the most jaded kids.

No one will be reaching for the iPads, that’s for sure!

Explore five floors of these galleries, including a room of light tricks and a mirror set up that will have you questioning your own eyesight.

Things to Do with Toddlers in Edinburgh

21. edinburgh international climbing arena.

visit edinburgh with toddler

If you’ve got active kids, the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena is calling your name.

It is a fantastic venue as it genuinely caters to people of all ages.

Adults and older children can take advantage of the hundreds of climbing routes, as well as the rocks for bouldering.

Younger children will absolutely adore the indoor playground with climbing elements and lots of cushion so they can explore the wonderful world of rock climbing without you worrying they’ll get hurt.

And if you have toddlers, behold!

The Scrambles softplay area is built just for people who don’t really have any depth perception and fall down a lot (aka two year olds).

Let them loose in here and they’ll just bounce gracefully off the walls while you all make some family memories.

22. Wonder World

visit edinburgh with toddler

As another indoor play place in the Edinburgh area, Wonder World is an awesome place to take your kids in Scotland.

Not only can they climb and play on the super slides, but there are go-karts, a volcano (it’s safe, I swear!) and a place to play indoor sports like (English) football.

Kids up to 12 years old are welcome with a parent – this is the age at which a child would outgrow some of the climbing apparatuses, so this is as much for safety as it is for enjoyment of the rest of the children.

There’s also an on-site cafĂ© if you’re getting hungry or the kids are getting cranky.

23. Gorgie City Farm

visit edinburgh with toddler

One of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids is to take them to Gorgie City Farm , a free farm that features an awesome outdoor learning experience and of course, adorable animals.

The farm prides itself on being a slice of countryside life right in the heart of Edinburgh, and it is a working farm so the animals are being raised for food production in case this is something you need to take into consideration before you visit.

In addition to having lovely animal exhibits, there are also regular educational talks as well as the opportunity to host kid’s birthday parties or other events here.

24. ODEON Edinburgh Lothian Road

visit edinburgh with toddler

Sometimes, you just need a couple of hours to yourself but don’t want to hire a babysitter while in Edinburgh.

That’s okay, the ODEON Edinburgh Lothian Road plays plenty of new releases, including the kid-friendly ones.

All you need to do is take a deep breath, pick a movie your toddlers will love, buy some snacks and head into this dark oasis filled with “pay attention to the movie!” hushed whispers.

The ODEON is also a great option for families with kids of all ages, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating or you feel like catching up on one of the latest Hollywood hits one night after dinner.

25. Ocean Terminal

visit edinburgh with toddler

If you need somewhere to get out of the rain, or perhaps your kids need some new shoes after running theirs ragged all over Edinburgh, Ocean Terminal Shopping Center is the place to go.

In addition to have regular stores, it has plenty of restaurants so you can grab a family bite to eat, and you can treat the toddlers and younger kids to a stop at a specialty shop like Build – a – Bear while you’re there.

Active Things to Do with Kids in Edinburgh

26. ryze edinburgh.

visit edinburgh with toddler

There’s something about a giant trampoline that satisfies even the quietest child’s desire to bounce up and down over and over again.

It’s like living in a dream world, but it’s real.

The original extreme sports facility in Scotland, Ryze Edinburgh , has a giant interconnected field of trampolines which allows your family to jump off the walls – literally.

There’s also a foam pit to throw the kids into when they’re bugging you (okay, not really – only throw out of love, please!) and an awesome dodgeball area where kids of similar ages can take aim against each other.

You’ll want to book your spot ahead of time, as the trampolines can only hold so many people.

27. Paintball Edinburgh

visit edinburgh with toddler

Your teens and tweenagers are going to love you when you take them to Paintball Edinburgh.

This indoor paintball arena is an awesome place to burn some energy, rile up some family-friendly competition and test your paintballing skills.

The location is on the outskirts of the city, but it’s not too difficult to get to and it’s well worth it for the amazing themed rooms they provide.

You can get all of the gear and equipment right on site, and they’ll make sure to brief you on the rules and how to stay safe.

There will be age limits depending on what time of experience you have and who is playing, so make sure to book ahead of time so you can fit everyone in the right category and make sure that no one’s left out.

28. Escape Game

Older kids are the perfect candidate for Edinburgh’s Escape Games.

If you’ve never played an Escape Game before, you should know that you’re basically locked (not really but pretend) in a room with lots of clues, trying to figure out a puzzle of sorts.

The theming of an Escape Room is always the best part, as it varies and can be anything from Sherlock Holmes to an operating room.

These take place indoors, so they’re also great Edinburgh activities for kids on a rainy day or in the evening.

Check out some of Edinburgh’s most popular escape games that are open to families of all kinds.

Escape Edinburgh

With wonderfully themed rooms for all kinds of interests, you’ll find yourself racing through a wizarding world, embracing your inner Sherlock Holmes at Baker Street or figuring out how to save the world from a deadly disease.

The games at Escape Edinburgh last 60 minutes, and the challenges are good for 2 to 5 people.

The games may be too intense or difficult for children under the age of 10, but if you do have a younger child, they encourage you to get in touch with them should you think your kid would be able to cope with the Escape Room environment.

Escape Edinburgh has three locations across the city: New Town, Morrison Street and Haymarket.

Exit Plan Edinburgh

The stories are rich and intriguing at the escape games held by Exit Plan Edinburgh.

From taking the role of fugitives on the run from the police (I mean, who wouldn’t want to do that?) to immersing yourself in a Sci Fi type game revolving around a mysterious item called the “Tesla Cube,” you and your family will be wrapped up in the game from beginning to end.

Exit Plan Edinburgh is one of the cheapest Escape Rooms in Edinburgh and located right in the heart of the city center, so you can easily get there no matter where you’re staying.

If you have a giant family reunion planned, they can accommodate up to 22 people across their three games, so why miss the chance to do some family bonding while also frantically running around and yelling at Grandpa to solve the puzzle faster?!

Locked in Edinburgh

Most Edinburgh escape rooms take place in purpose built sets, but not Locked in Edinburgh!

Here, you’ll be running around actual Edinburgh buildings – the Summerhall building, to be exact.

Explore the old vet school rooms as you solve murder mysteries or work your way through strained international relations, or keep it a bit simpler in the gin distillery where you’re working non-stop to try to save the gin (so very Edinburgh).

You usually need to book in advance to make sure you secure your spots, and games are live which means latecomers can’t be admitted.

Locked In Edinburgh is recommended for slightly older children – over 12 years, and if they’re under 16, there must be an adult in the room as well.

29. Tenpin Edinburgh

visit edinburgh with toddler

When the weather isn’t working in your favour, it’s time for a trip to Tenpin Edinburgh.

Kids will fall in love with the chance to try to bowl a strike while you can sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the snacks on offer.

This is also a great kid’s birthday party destination should you wish to host a bunch of kids here, or just make it a family competition and see if you can pair the teams off fairly so everyone’s got a chance to beat Grandpa at his own game.

30. Prince’s Street Gardens

visit edinburgh with toddler

Need the kids to burn off a lot of energy before settling them in for the night?

I know right where to take them.

Head to Prince’s Street Gardens , right underneath Edinburgh Castle, for plenty of space to run, play tag, and keep an eye on them while you bask in the sun.

You’ll get gorgeous views of the castle and surrounding areas of Edinburgh, and the two adjacent parks give you plenty of options on where to camp out.

Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch or dinner lazing away on the grass while the kids run in wide open spaces.

If you’re traveling to Edinburgh in the holidays, you should know that there is an awesome winter festival you can take the whole family to in the gardens.

There are amusement park rides, an ice rink, and Christmas market stalls to keep you topped up on the mulled wine and filled with holiday cheer.

31. Time Twisters

visit edinburgh with toddler

Time Twisters is the soft indoor play area that I WISH I had as a kid.

This family-friendly attraction in Edinburgh takes you back to Ancient Egypt, though perhaps a bit softer and more fun version of it.

Timetwisters is a wonderfully themed indoor play areas for kids featuring rope bridges, slides, underground tunnels and more.

For the parents, there is food, places to watch the kids battle the pharaohs, and the chance to hold your kid’s birthday party here so you can surround yourself by 10 screaming kids rather than just your own.

Seriously, Timetwisters is one of my favorite recommendations for kids in Edinburgh, as well as something that you can do no matter the weather so bring on the rainy Edinburgh days!

32. Arthur’s Seat

visit edinburgh with toddler

One of the most beautiful places in all of Edinburgh is Arthur’s Seat.

The surrounding hills are just postcard-perfect and perfectly suited for the royalty that once roamed the city.

Climbing Arthur’s seat is a bit of a hike – an actual hike, to be exact.

There is both a steep way up and a more slowly ascending way up.

I’d advise taking the slower way if you’ve got kids in tow.

Make a game out of seeing what landmarks they can spot along your way, and bring some treats to enjoy at the top.

If you’ve got teenagers, perhaps send them up the steeper and more challenging way so they’ll get a work out while you and the little ones tire yourselves out running after each other on your own walk up.

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system.

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

visit edinburgh with toddler

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visit edinburgh with toddler

15 Things To Do With Toddlers In Edinburgh

visit edinburgh with toddler

Last Updated on July 13, 2022 by Louise

Are you looking for things to do with toddlers in Edinburgh? From interactive museums to soft play, fun playgrounds to amazing animals, sandy beaches to fish in aquariums – there is plenty to keep little ones occupied.

Whether you’re looking for something to do on a rainy day or to make the most of sunny weather, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The trouble will be deciding which activities to choose!

Read on for lots of inspiration of attractions and days out for the under 5s in Edinburgh.

Table of Contents

Learn Through Play at The National Museum of Scotland

visit edinburgh with toddler

The National Museum of Scotland is free and there’s lots to do for all ages. If you have a toddler, head for the Imagine Room. (level 1). It features interactive games, musical instruments, shadow play, big teapots and a comfy reading area with books and dress-up clothes.

Another area worth checking out is Adventure Planet on level 5. It’s an interactive nature gallery for kids where they can try the dino-dig, dress up to survive extreme environments and explore hands-on nature activities.

Find out more at the National Museum of Scotland

See the Farm Animals at Georgie City Farm

Another great option for toddlers which is free is Georgie City Farm. You can see alpacas, pigs, sheep, ducks, guinea pigs, chickens and more.

It’s a small farm which is a great place to get close up to farm animals.

Find out more at Georgie City Farm

Try the Interactive Exhibits at Camera Obscura

visit edinburgh with toddler

Camera Obscure is perfect for a rainy day. The attraction has lots of illusions including mirror mazes and moving lights. Toddlers love the interactive nature of the exhibits.

Before you go it’s worth knowing you have to leave buggies on the ground floor. Toilets and baby changing are on the ground floor too.

Find out more at Camera Obscura

Play at the Meadows Playground

visit edinburgh with toddler

The Meadows is a public park to the south of Edinburgh. There’s lots of open grassland for toddlers to run around. It’s perfect for picnics and playing with a ball.

There is a nice playground that is great for kids of all ages with a flying fox, swings, slides and climbing frames. Toddlers will especially enjoy the sand play.

The play park is located at the edge of the Meadows that’s closest to Arthur’s seat.

Explore Edinburgh Botanic Gardens

visit edinburgh with toddler

The Botanic Gardens are excellent for toddlers with lots of space to run around and explore. The gardens are free but if you want to see inside the glass houses there is a charge for adults (children under 15 are free).

Find out more at Botanic Gardens

Hop On and Hop Off The Edinburgh Sightseeing Bus

visit edinburgh with toddler

Toddlers will love the hop on / hop off bus. For adults there is an interesting commentary as you tour around. It’s also great for getting you around Edinburgh too.

Find out more about the Hop on / Hop Off Bus

See Penguins at Edinburgh Zoo

visit edinburgh with toddler

Toddlers love animals and will be fascinated with a trip to the zoo.

See penguins, koalas, a lion, monkeys, chimpanzee, zebra, jaguar, tigers and lots more.

It’s also the only place in the UK where you can see the giant pandas but book tickets for this in advance. It’s free to book, but because tickets to see the pandas are limited, pre-booking is essential. It’s also worth noting that although the panda experience lasts 30 minutes it is not guaranteed that either panda will show up.

The zoo is hilly so it can be quite arduous climbing to the top of the zoo. You could plan to start your visit at the top of the zoo and then work your way down to the bottom. Also if you’re going on a cold day, wrap up warm because it can get quite chilly up there.

If you’re travelling by bus, there is a bus stop right outside the zoo. It’s only a short trip from the city centre.

Find out more at Edinburgh Zoo

Try the Soft Play at Dynamic Earth

visit edinburgh with toddler

At Dynamic Earth you go on an interesting tour of the history of the plant with lots of hands on activities. Much of it will go over a toddler’s head but there are enough interactive exhibits to keep little ones entertained if you want to take older school aged kids too. There’s also a soft play next to the gift shop for toddlers.

Find out more at Dynamic Earth

Feed the Ducks on St Margaret’s Loch at Arthurs Seat

Toddlers may not be able to climb Arthur’s Seat. However, there is a swan and duck lake on St Margaret’s Loch on Queens Drive, around the north side of Arthur’s Seat where they can see and feed the birds.

Find out about Arthur’s Seat

Build a Sandcastle on Portobello Beach

visit edinburgh with toddler

Toddlers love the beach so if the weather is decent you can’t go wrong with a trip to Portobello Beach, which is 3 miles east of the city centre.

It’s great for building sandcastles and for toddlers to run around. It’s also nice to walk along.

There’s also a good selection of cafes, pubs and restaurants at Portobello.

Meet the Animals at Little Farmers, Craigies Farm

Little Farmers is an adventure car park that’s great for toddlers. There’s lots to do! Meet the animals and enjoy the indoor and outdoor playgrounds.

It’s about a 20 minute drive from the centre of Edinburgh so you’ll need a car to get here.

Find out more at Little Farmers

Explore the Soft Play at the Royal Commonwealth Pool

The young explorer soft play at the Royal Commonwealth Pool is popular with toddlers. You can just drop in, no need to book! A new frame with an aquatic theme was installed in Feb 2020 for toddlers, juniors and babies.

Find out more at The Royal Commonwealth Pool

Walk Around Princes Street Gardens

visit edinburgh with toddler

Princes Street Gardens is a lovely space for toddlers to explore.

The play area in Princes Street is great for young kids. Walk up to St John’s church and there is a nice little cafe in the basement of the church serving Fairtrade teas and coffees.

See the Fish Deep Sea World

Deep Sea World is Scotland’s national aquarium and is located underneath the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, in the quaint village of North Queensferry. Toddlers love fish and so it’s an excellent attraction to keep them entertained. They will especially love the tunnel where fish swim above your head and around your sides.

Find out more at Deep Sea World

Jump in Trampoline Arena Edinburgh

The Jump in Trampoline attraction has an area dedicated to toddlers. There are also toddler time sessions.

Find out more at Jump In Edinburgh 

Where to Eat with Toddlers In Edinburgh

Vittoria on the Walk – a lovely Italian restaurant which is great for families and kids. There is a kid’s menu and lots of kids friendly food such as pizza and pasta.

Coro the Chocolate Cafe – if you looking for chocolate, pancakes, waffles and other treats this is the place to come. There is a kids menu where you can build your own mini waffle.

The Scran and Scallie –  is an award winning gastro pub which is very family friendly with kids menus and a play corner / area for small kids which has toys and a TV.

La Favorita – this pizzeria is fantastic for families and kids, especially if they love pizza. There’s a kids menu and the staff are very accommodating for families with young children. As well as pizzas, there are other offerings on the menu including pasta, steak, risotto and fish.

Reds Portobello – if you’re heading to Portobello beach this is a great cafe to eat if you have toddlers. There’s a soft play area and a climbing area for over 2s as well as a dedicated kids menu.

Getting around Edinburgh with Toddlers

Edinburgh is a pretty compact city with an excellent bus service.

The buses are cheap and pushchair friendly. There are also lots of them and they’re easy to use.

You can use contactless payments and there is a daily cap for adults. There are also family tickets which you can buy from the driver on the m tickets app. Up to 3 children under 5 travel free with a fare paying passenger.

Find more information about Edinburgh buses

Where To Stay with Toddlers In Edinburgh

Best budget hotel.

The Premier Inn is a family friendly budget hotel. It’s excellent value for money with comfortable beds with hypnos mattresses. Kids normally have pull out sofa beds and  travel cots are provided on request. The premier Inn by Waverley Station is good and close to everything in the city centre. If your staying in Edinburgh on a budget, you can’t go wrong with Premier Inn.

Find out more at Premier Inn Edinburgh

Best Luxury Hotel

The Balmoral. It’s set in lovely grounds and located in the heart of the city. The have some great services for parents with kids including a 24 hour babysitting service, bathrooms with kids products and kid’s sized hooded robes and 50% of kids menus.

Find out more at The Balmoral Hotel.

Best Hotel With a Swimming Pool

The Radisson Blu. The Radisson Blu is centrally located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in the Old Town. It boasts a swimming pool, sauna and fitness centre. There’s plenty of room options which include family room or a junior suite with extra space for families.

Find out more at The Radisson Blu, Edinburgh

Best For Visiting The Zoo

The Holiday Inn Edinburgh Zoo – This holiday Inn are family rooms and interconnecting rooms for families. There’s also a swimming pool, gym, free parking and wifi. It’s located right next to the zoo. There’s a bus stop right outside and it takes about 5 minutes to get into Edinburgh on the bus. Reviews are mixed with some complaints about dated rooms but many families love it. If you book on the holiday Inn website you can get 50% off tickets to the zoo if you go from 2pm onwards.

Find out more at Holiday Inn Edinburgh Zoo

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visit edinburgh with toddler

Out About Scotland Logo

The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh With Children

Edinburgh is a great city to visit with kids since it has so many fun things to do, from touring ancient castles to getting hands-on at interactive museums.

In this article, you’ll discover some of the top things to do in Edinburgh with kids, including major attractions as well as a few that are off the standard tourist trails.

If you have older children check out this article: Things to do in Edinburgh with Teenagers .

1: Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Out About Scotland Guide: Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

One of Edinburgh’s most-visited attractions is also among the city’s oldest. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is located on The Royal Mile , roughly opposite the Scotch Whisky Experience and Edinburgh Castle.

The attraction showcases a variety of interactive displays that employ light and colour to create optical illusions that are designed to be as mind-boggling as possible.

There are a total of six floors housing the collection; one is devoted to holograms, another has a mirror labyrinth, and a third has a winding vortex tunnel.

From low-tech mirrors and light displays to high-tech thermal imaging cameras and laser-etched holograms, every kind of optical illusion is on display at the Camera Obscura.

Although the attraction’s target audience is families, people of any age will find plenty to enjoy there. This is due to the fact that the displays cover a wide variety of media and not just flashy light shows and computer graphics.

On the third level, for example, there are remote-controlled cameras that provide a real-time panorama of the city, while the top floor features the namesake Camera Obscura where an image of the city is projected onto a screen by a series of mirrors.

2: Clip ‘n Climb at the Eica

Edinburgh Clip 'n Climb

Out About Scotland Guide: Clip ‘n Climb Edinburgh

Scotland’s premier climbing facility and Europe’s biggest indoor climbing centre, the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, has one of the world’s highest indoor climbing walls in addition to excellent amenities including a gym, cafĂ©, and a soft play area.

One family-oriented climbing activity at the EICA is Clip ‘n Climb where children (and adults) of all ages can enjoy the thrill of climbing without having to worry about wearing bulky equipment or sitting through lengthy health and safety lessons.

Simply put, Clip ‘n Climb involves donning a harness, attaching the harness to a safety tether, and then climbing to your heart’s content.

The auto-belay gently coils itself in as you ascend, and when you reach the top, you push back to descend. Simple!

Clip ‘n Climb has a number of unique courses, each with its own theme and unique set of handholds positioned at different angles.

Freestanding obstacles include twisted lego-style blocks and large plastic balls, while the climbing walls include a circuit board, ice walls, and a Tetris-themed wall.

3: Museum on the Mound

Museum on the Mound

Out About Scotland Guide: Museum on the Mound

Located between Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile and East Princes Street Gardens, the Museum on the Mound is a must-see for families.

The museum is situated in the former Bank of Scotland head office which dates back to the 19th century and is one of the most impressive examples of Victorian architecture in the city.

At the Museum on the Mound, children and adults can learn about the Bank of Scotland’s history and the evolution of banking and currency from the earliest coins to modern-day plastic cards.

There are 4,000-year-old artefacts that illustrate the evolution of money from beads and feathers to the latest chip and pin cards, interactive maps that demonstrate how Edinburgh has changed over 400 years, and a display of one million pounds in real banknotes.

In addition, there are activity books, an interactive safe that kids can try to break into, and afternoon sessions where they can learn about the history of money by striking their own coins.

4: Royal Botanic Gardens

Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens

Out About Scotland Guide: Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a stunning oasis of greenery that covers over 70 acres of landscaped grounds roughly one mile north of Princes Street.

The garden is one of the city’s most-visited attractions for families thanks to an incredible collection of plants collected from around the globe, including many rare and exotic species that can only be seen at the RBGE.

Two of the most popular areas are the Rock Garden, a man-made hillside filled with a variety of plants and water features, and the Victorian Palm House, a stunning glasshouse filled with tropical plants and flowers.

The Palm House is a fantastic place to visit even in the depths of winter as it recreates the environment of a tropical rainforest, complete with giant ferns and palm trees.

In addition to the various gardens and glasshouses, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh also has a range of educational and research programs where children can learn about the history of the garden and the various plants that call it home, as well as participate in events and workshops.

After a busy few hours running around with the kids and exploring the different plant habitats, families can round off a visit by heading to the restaurant in the middle of the park to refill hungry bellies or stop at the visitor centre at the main entrance which has a cafe, plant exhibitions, and a shop.

5: Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo

Out About Scotland Guide: Edinburgh Zoo

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh with kids one of the first places you should get tickets for is Edinburgh Zoo . With over 2,500 animals from around the world and a park that covers 82 acres, it’s the perfect destination for family members of all ages.

Because it’s so big you can head off in a hundred different directions but I personally recommend making a beeline for Penguins Rock to catch the penguin parade.

This daily event allows visitors to get up close and personal with the zoo’s 100 resident penguins as they waddle through the park before heading back to their outdoor swimming pool which is, in fact, the largest penguin pool in Europe.

After the penguins, you might like to make your way to the Budongo Trail where you can see the zoo’s family of 15 chimpanzees, followed by a visit to the Koala Territory where you can meet the zoo’s cuddly koalas.

There are also bird enclosures, insect habitats, big cat enclosures and many more animals to see, as well as daily keeper talks, a restaurant, shops, and a children’s play park.

Finally, for an extra special treat you might consider giving your kids a keeper experience where they’ll have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to follow a keeper around and help them feed and look after animals including rhinos, armadillos, sloths, meerkats and giraffes.

Overall, a visit to Edinburgh Zoo is a must for any family on a day trip to the city. With so much to see and do, your kids are sure to have a wild time!

6: Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

Out About Scotland Guide: Edinburgh Castle

When it comes to family-friendly attractions in Edinburgh, few places can top the iconic 900-year-old Edinburgh Castle . Perched on Castle Rock in the heart of the city, the castle is a must-visit attraction for anyone travelling with children.

One of the best things about visiting Edinburgh Castle is the stunning views of the city that you get from the Half Moon battery where you can see the entire city and beyond. It’s also the location of the famous One o’Clock gun which fires every day at 1 pm.

Inside the castle there are lots of areas to explore which are equally interesting for kids as well as mums and dads, including the 15th-century Great Hall and the Crown Room which houses the Scottish Crown Jewels.

Other notable attractions are the Royal Palace which is the former home of Mary Queen of Scots, and the National War Museum of Scotland which offers a fascinating look at Scotland’s military history.

One thing for parents to be aware of is that Edinburgh Castle is Scotland’s most-visited attraction and sees upwards of 2 million visitors each year, so it gets incredibly busy.

To make life easier it’s a good idea to book your tickets online in advance to skip the horrendously long queues that form at the castle entrance.

7: Holyrood Park

Holyrood Park

Out About Scotland Guide: Holyrood Park

Holyrood Park is a 650-acre wilderness in the heart of Edinburgh that boasts stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside from its many rocky peaks.

One of the highlights of the park is Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that’s the highest point in Edinburgh and is a must-do for anyone visiting the city.

Arthur’s Seat offers incredible views from the top and even though it’s a wee bit of a challenge, hiking up it should be possible even for the littlest legs.

In addition to Arthur’s Seat, Holyrood Park is also home to the beautiful Salisbury Crags – a long cliff that overlooks the Radical Road walking trail – and St. Margarets Loch which was created in 1856 by Prince Albert and is now home to dozens of swans.

The location of Holyrood Park at the foot of the Royal Mile means it’s a good destination for anyone looking for a break from the city centre and it’s perfect for kids needing to burn off energy as there are lots of hills to climb and rocky outcrops to explore.

After a visit to the park, visitors have the option of either heading back to the Royal Mile or taking a tour around nearby attractions such as Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament Building .

8: National Museum of Scotland

National Museum Scotland

Website: National Museum of Scotland

Among Edinburgh’s many family-friendly attractions, the National Museum of Scotland stands out as a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

The museum features a series of different themed galleries that cover a range of topics from art to space and world culture to dinosaurs, but it’s the enormous first gallery that’s the most impressive in my opinion.

From the main entrance, visitors are greeted by the stunning Victorian-era iron and glass Grand Gallery which sets the stage for an immersive journey through the largest museum installation in Britain.

There are over 800 objects in the Grand Gallery which includes everything from girders from the original Tay Bridge to the incredible Millenium Clock Tower .

Moving up through each level takes visitors on a whirlwind tour of science and art, especially in the Scottish History and Archaeology galleries which provide a fascinating tour of Scotland from the Palaeolithic era to the present day,

The National Museum of Scotland isn’t just about history, though, as there are hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that make it the perfect place for children to learn and have fun.

The Imagine gallery, designed specifically for children aged 5 and under, encourages creativity and play through activities like dressing up and playing music, and it’s without a doubt one of the best things to do in Edinburgh with toddlers.

Adventure Planet, meanwhile, offers a chance to explore the world by digging for fossils and discovering the wonders of the deep sea in a mini submersible.

9: Dynamic Earth

Dynamic Earth Edinburgh

Website: Dynamic Earth

Dynamic Earth is a family-oriented science centre and visitor attraction positioned between the Scottish Parliament Building and Holyrood Park near the bottom of the Royal Mile.

The centre focuses on explaining the story of our planet, its history, and the challenges that face the world’s oceans, forests and deserts, as well as closer to home in Scotland.

The interactive exhibits at Dynamic Earth take visitors on a journey through time, from the Big Bang to the present day, and during a visit children can get involved with a number of interactive experiences that cover the formation of the earth, the different ecosystems that exist on our planet today, and the impact of climate change.

The attraction also features Edinburgh’s only planetarium which showcases immersive and captivating films about the night sky as well as presenter-led shows that take a deep dive into the inky black depths of the world’s oceans.

Unusually for a city centre attraction, Dynamic Earth has its own car park built underground which is ultra-handy but a wee bit expensive, so thankfully it’s one of the stops for the city’s open-top tour buses and it’s easily walked from Edinburgh Castle in just 20 minutes.

Facilities include an on-site restaurant and gift shop and tickets can either be purchased on the day or as an annual pass.

For more information on tickets, opening hours, and upcoming events, visit the official website .

10: Commonwealth Pool

Commonwealth Pool Edinburgh

Website: Royal Commonwealth Pool

The Royal Commonwealth Pool, also known as the “Commie Pool,” is a large public swimming and leisure facility in Edinburgh.

It’s located in the south of the city on Dalkeith Road, around 1/3 mile from the junction of Holyrood Park Road and is easily accessible by bus (2, 14, 30, 33 and 51) and by car (there’s a free on-site car park).

The pool was originally built for the 1970 Commonwealth Games and has since been used for several major sporting events including the 1986 and 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Today, it’s one of the city’s top venues for keeping fit thanks to one of the best (and most keenly priced) gyms in the city as well the city’s only 50-meter pool and a submersible lift that allows disabled visitors to enjoy getting into the water.

Children and adults can get active at AquaDash – an aquatic inflatable assault course – as well as hone their techniques during instructor-led daily classes.

There’s also a 25-meter diving pool and a smaller teaching pool which can be used for swimming lessons, recreational swimming, and fitness classes.

The Commonwealth pool also hosts a holiday club for children during the school holidays where they can take part in swimming as well as arts and crafts and even drama lessons.

11: Tubing at Midlothian Snowsports Centre

Midlothian Snowsports Tubing

Out About Scotland Guide: Tubing at Midlothian Snowsports Centre

Even if it’s the middle of summer and there’s no snow, the Midlothian Snowsports Centre is a great place to take the kids for a day of outdoor fun.

The outdoor area is divided into zones, with one reserved for the beginner-friendly nursery slopes and another for the more advanced downhill runs, as well as a separate area for family-friendly tubing.

If you’re wondering what tubing is, it’s an outdoor activity where you grab a rigid inflatable tube, carry it on a travelator to the top of the runs (similar to bobsleigh courses but made with fibre matting instead of snow), get in, and let gravity do the rest.

Before you know it you’ll be bombing downhill at a rate of knots either on straight runs that let you get up to warp speed or twisty turny runs that’ll have you hanging on for dear life.

You’ll find both adults and children zooming down the tube runs in all weathers but this is one of the few activities where it’s actually better if it has been raining because the water makes the tubes more slippery and hence go a lot faster.

Tubing sessions are currently only available at the weekends and run for 45 minutes, with tickets sold on a first come first served basis. Prices range from around ÂŁ10 per person but you can purchase family tickets (2 adults, 3 children) for around ÂŁ40.

12: Museum of Childhood

Museum of Childhood

Out About Scotland Guide: The Museum of Childhood

The Museum of Childhood is a magical place that transports visitors back to the enchanting world of their youth. Nestled in the heart of the historic Royal Mile, this unique museum boasts a varied collection of toys, games, and other childhood memorabilia.

Established in 1955 by city councillor Patrick Murray, it was the first museum in the world to focus exclusively on the experiences and toys of childhood.

Today, the Museum of Childhood houses a fascinating assortment of over 60,000 objects that span the 18th to the 21st centuries and reflect the social history of children’s lives in Scotland.

As you step into the museum you’ll be greeted by a range of displays that feature an array of vintage toys including dolls, teddy bears, and model trains. There are also board games, jigsaw puzzles, and even children’s clothing from different eras.

Throughout the museum you’ll find several hands-on stations where children can take part in activities such as playing with old-fashioned toys or trying on vintage clothes, as well as a photographic archive that shows Edinburgh life in the early 1900s.

The museum also hosts a variety of engaging events and workshops throughout the year that give visitors the opportunity to learn new skills and immerse themselves even further in the world of childhood.

13: Cramond Island

Cramond Island

Out About Scotland Guide: Cramond Island

If you take the number 41, 32 or 36 buses you’ll be able to escape the maddeningly busy city centre and visit the picturesque Firth of Forth at Cramond Island , a tidal island located a few miles outside of Edinburgh.

It can be found at the end of a 3/4 mile walkway that leads away from the village of Cramond to almost the middle of the estuary.

Although it gets a bit busy with locals at the weekend you’ll hardly ever find visiting tourists walking around it mid-week – especially in the off-peak season – so it makes a great place to escape to.

There’s a lot of history on the island and it’s known to have been occupied as far back as Roman times although the only signs of human use you’ll see nowadays are the occasional WWII bunker and the massive anti-tank blockade that forms the walkway that’s used to get onto it.

There are a couple of small beaches that are perfect for a picnic spot as well as lots of grassy hollows to hide in and on a summer day it’s all too easy to completely forget you’re close to Scotland’s capital city.

The only downside is that as it’s tidal you could find yourself stranded if you stay there too long so check the tide times at the causeway entrance before walking across.

14. The Water of Leith

The Water of Leith

Out About Scotland Guide: Water of Leith

The Water of Leith is a river that runs for 22 miles from the Pentland Hills to Leith , and it’s certainly worth visiting with your kids if you want to escape from Edinburgh’s crowds.

Quiet tree-lined paths follow the river for the majority of its journey and because there are so many entrance points you won’t have to walk far to get onto them. Most of these paths are quite muddy though, so if you’re visiting with wee ones it’s probably best to make sure they’re wearing wellies.

In years gone by the river was an integral part of Edinburgh’s cotton industries when it powered mills along its entire length, but as the mills moved away from using water power the Water of Leith reverted to its natural state as a peaceful river setting.

Popular entry points are Dean Village where you can see some of the remains of those long-forgotten mills and Stockbridge which is a great district to visit if you like cosy bistros and boutique shopping.

You can follow 12 miles of the river along paths that are wide enough in most places to accommodate both cyclists and walkers but I personally think it’s best enjoyed on foot as quite a few sections require climbing steep flights of steps.

To get an idea of exactly where the river winds its way through the city you should check out the Water of Leith Visitor Centre on Lanark Road, but if you just want to enjoy a nice walk I recommend starting in Stockbridge and heading north to Leith which will take around an hour on foot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is edinburgh suitable for kids.

Yes, Edinburgh is a great destination for families with kids. The city boasts a wide range of fun and educational activities for children such as visiting Edinburgh Castle, exploring Edinburgh Zoo, and taking a ghost tour through the city’s historic streets.

In regard to outdoor activities, you can take a hike up Arthur’s Seat or enjoy a day trip to nearby beaches like Portobello . If you’re looking for more places to visit with kids, the National Museum of Scotland and Camera Obscura and World of Illusions are great options.

Where can I take my baby in Edinburgh?

If you’re looking for places to take your baby in Edinburgh, here are some suggestions:

1: The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh : This is a beautiful outdoor space where you can take a stroll with your baby and enjoy the scenery.

2: The Museum of Childhood : This is a museum that showcases toys and games from different eras.

3: The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art : This art gallery has a large outdoor sculpture park which can be a fun place to explore with your baby.

4: The Water of Leith Walkway : This is a scenic path that runs through Edinburgh and is (mostly) pushchair-friendly, making it a great place to take your baby for a walk.

Is Edinburgh good for a family holiday?

Yes, Edinburgh is a great destination for a family holiday. There are many activities and attractions that cater to families including historic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse as well as family-friendly museums and galleries like the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Art Gallery.

Additionally, there are plenty of outdoor spaces to explore such as Holyrood Park, The Meadows, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

What can kids do on a rainy day in Edinburgh?

If you’re looking for things to do with kids on a rainy day in Edinburgh, here are some suggestions:

1: Dynamic Earth : This interactive museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of the planet from earthquakes to volcanoes and the ice age.

2: Camera Obscura and World of Illusions : This attraction features five floors of optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and a rooftop camera obscura with panoramic views of the city.

3: National Museum of Scotland : This museum has a wide variety of exhibits including natural history, science and technology, and world cultures. There are also interactive exhibits designed specifically for kids.

4: Edinburgh Dungeon : This attraction takes visitors on a journey through Scotland’s darker history, featuring live actors, special effects, and scary (but not too scary) stories.

5: Gorgie City Farm : This farm is home to a variety of farm animals including pigs, goats, and chickens. There are also indoor play areas for younger children.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

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20 Best Ideas For An Edinburgh 3 Day Itinerary With Kids

A view of Victoria Street in Edinburgh with buildings along a curve. The lower floor are bright colorful storefronts and the upper levels are a tan stone in old fashioned Victorian style architecture. People are walking on the sidewalk. This photo was taken during an Edinburgh 3 day itinerary.

Nestled amidst rolling hills and steeped in history, Edinburgh, Scotland beckons families with its timeless charm. This city can take years to fully experience. But even if you’re limited to an Edinburgh 3 day itinerary, you’ll still be able to experience the best of what Edinburgh has to offer.

From medieval castles to vibrant streets teeming with street performers, Edinburgh provides an ideal setting for families seeking culture and excitement. Wander along the historic Royal Mile. Or take a moment to marvel at the grandeur of the iconic Edinburgh Castle that looms majestically over the city. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

We visited Edinburgh over a period of several days to research all the fun things families can do in this city. Take a read through this post for travel tips of the best things to do during a 3 day Edinburgh itinerary. You’re sure to find something to love in this beautiful Scottish city.

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Table of Contents

Easy Edinburgh 3 day itinerary

Don’t have time to read through the whole post? Here’s an easy itinerary that will give you a great overview of Edinburgh.

  • Hop on hop off bus tour
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Royal Mile  
  • Holyrood Palace

Day 2: 

  • Harry Potter tour
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • Camera Obscura
  • Loch Lomond day trip
  • Victoria Street and Grassmarket Square

If you’ve never been to Edinburgh before, take a read through my first time in Edinburgh guide for basic information and travel tips.

Where to stay during an Edinburgh 3 day itinerary

If you only have three days in Edinburgh Scotland, the best place to stay is in the city centre, close to Old Town or New Town. This part of Edinburgh is where many of the city’s attractions are located. So staying in a hotel in this area means you won’t need to do a lot of walking or riding the tram.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Accommodations in Edinburgh tend to be between ÂŁ230-350 per night (roughly $300-450 USD), and can be higher if you’re right in Old Town or New Town. Make sure you account for those costs in your travel budget. 

Check out my tips for making a family travel budget .

Apex Grassmarket

You can’t get any more central than Apex Grassmarket . This hotel is located right at Grassmarket Square, making it steps away from restaurants and just a few minutes walk from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Rooms at Apex Grassmarket can accommodate families of 4, and offer views of the city. WiFi, a TV with cable channels, a safe, and 24-hour room service are all included in the rooms. There’s also a pool, gym, and laundry facilities on the premises. Breakfast is available for a fee.

Cityroomz Edinburgh

For more basic accommodations, book a stay at Cityroomz Edinburgh . Families can book suites, studios, or quadruple rooms, which can all accommodate families of 4. Cityroomz Edinburgh is located to the west of Edinburgh Castle, and is within a 1-2 minute walk from restaurants and cafes.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Rooms and suites at Cityroomz Edinburgh come with WiFi, TV, coffee/tea maker, and an in-room safe. There are laundry facilities on the premises. The suites have a kitchen and table, for those who want to cook their own meals during their three days in Edinburgh.

Cairn Hotel

If you’re looking for a more homey hotel experience, with some British charm, book a stay at the Cairn Hotel . This hotel offers rooms that accommodate families of 3, apartments and lofts for families of 4, and houses for families of 6-12 people. Rooms at the Cairn Hotel come with WiFi and TV. Apartments, lofts, and houses come with a kitchen for families who want to self-cater.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Cairn Hotel is located northeast of New Town, however it’s still walkable to many of Edinburgh’s attractions. Breakfast is available for a fee. And there are plenty of restaurants within a 2-5 minute walk from the hotel.

Ideas for an Edinburgh 3 day itinerary

There are plenty of activities to fill your 3 days in Edinburgh itinerary. For this list, I’ve grouped the ideas into top attractions, museums, outdoor spaces, and tours. Take a look through this list and find the perfect things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Top Edinburgh attractions

There are plenty of amazing attractions and points of interest to visit during a 3 day Edinburgh itinerary. Being such an old city (the area itself has been inhabited by humans as early as 8500 BC!) you’ll find many historic sites dating back hundreds of years.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Walk through royal homes and roads, historic streets, and hallowed grounds to get a glimpse of Edinburgh’s unique history.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle was the home of Scottish monarchs and played important roles in Scotland’s attempts at independence. You’ll find important Scottish relics there, like the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. These items were used for the coronation of Scottish kings.

visit edinburgh with toddler

A unique event at Edinburgh Castle is the firing of the one o’clock gun. Historically, the shooting of the gun was meant to help sailors set their clocks. The tradition continues today, and visitors gather at the castle to watch the gun fire at 1 pm.

Edinburgh Castle is open every day from 9:30 am - 6 pm (5 pm from October to March). You can book tickets online. If you’re interested in a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle, consider booking this tour from Little Fish Tours . They’re a locally formed tour company that’s also dedicated to sustainable tourism.

Learn how to travel more sustainably as a family .

2. Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the name of the road that stretches between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyrood House. It was traditionally a processional route for monarchs. Today, it’s lined with restaurants and shops for the many tourists that walk along it. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

The road is actually a little longer than a mile, and takes families about forty five minutes to walk from one end to the other. There are several museums you can stop at along the road, including the Museum of Edinburgh, the Writer’s Museum (honoring writers like Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson) and the People’s Museum. 

You can also find attractions like The Scotch Whisky Experience , where you can sample whisky. The Real Mary King’s Close is also located along the Royal Mile, a guided tour experience to help you see how residents lived throughout history.

A Royal Mile walking tour is a great way to experience the area like a local. This guided tour of the Royal Mile, from Edinburgh Guided Tour , takes you through stops along the road to gain insight into the history of these places.

3. Palace of Holyrood House

At the opposite end of the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle, near the Scottish Parliament Building, is the Palace of Holyrood House . This is the British Royal Family’s official royal residence in Edinburgh. But Holyrood House was also the home of Scottish royalty, including Mary Queen of Scots.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Since it is an official royal residence, you can only visit certain parts of the palace. However, Holyrood House is open Thursdays to Mondays (from July to September it’s open everyday) from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (opening hours are 9:30 am to 6 pm from April to October). It’s worth a visit to learn about the history of the Scottish monarchy.

4. Greyfriars Kirkyard

South of the Royal Mile is Greyfriars Kirkyard, a graveyard adjacent to Greyfriars Kirk (kirk means church). This historic graveyard dates back to the 16th century and was also involved in the Covenanting movement, a religious and political movement in Scotland in the 1600’s. You can find monuments to the Covenanters within the kirkyard.

visit edinburgh with toddler

For fans of the Harry Potter books, a trip to Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must. This graveyard served as inspiration for the names of many characters in the beloved book series, including McGonagall, Riddle, and Moody (though the spelling differs).

5. Victoria Street

Another Harry Potter fan must-see is Victoria Street, also located south of the Royal Mile. This colorful street served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the book series. 

A view of Victoria Street in Edinburgh with buildings along a curve. The lower floor are bright colorful storefronts and the upper levels are a tan stone in old fashioned Victorian style architecture. People are walking on the sidewalk. This photo was taken during an Edinburgh 3 day itinerary.

But even if you’re not a fan of the Harry Potter series, Victoria Street is still worth a visit. Built in the 1800’s and designed to be intentionally picturesque, Victoria Street is lined with shops and cafes with brightly colored facades. Pop into La Barantine Victoria for a coffee and pastry and enjoy some people watching!

6. New Town and Prince’s Street

The historic part of Edinburgh is divided into the Old Town and the New Town, built in the 1800s. This part of Edinburgh, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built by the wealthy residents who wanted to separate themselves from the common residents of the city. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

While most of Edinburgh’s points of interest are located in the Old Town, New Town is still worth a visit. Princes Street is now a shopping street with Marks and Spencer’s, Primark, and H&M. The Scottish National Gallery (the National Portrait Gallery) is also located in New Town, as well as the main train station, Edinburgh Waverley Station.

7. Scott Monument

Sir Walter Scott is one of Scotland’s most beloved writers. A prolific writer in his day, Sir Walter Scott is most known for his works of fiction, like Rob Roy and Waverley , and his epic poetry, like The Lady of The Lake .

visit edinburgh with toddler

Scott Monument, located at Princes Street Gardens, was built to honor Sir Walter Scott. Visitors can take guided tours of the monument to learn about Sir Walter Scott’s life and climb the tower to the top. You’ll get a great bird’s eye view of New Town and Old Town. 

The monument is open daily from 10 am to 4:30 pm. It’s closed between 12:30-1:45 pm for lunch. Tickets are £8 for adults and £6 for kids. Family tickets are £20.

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Museums in Edinburgh

Scotland’s weather is unpredictable, even in the summer. So don’t be surprised if you get rainy or overcast days during your Edinburgh 3 day itinerary. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

Fortunately, Edinburgh has no shortage of museums. They’re a great way to pass the time when the weather is not pleasant.

8. National Museum of Scotland

If you’re looking for a place that covers history, science, and culture all in one place, then head to the National Museum of Scotland . We love using museums as resources for worldschooling as it gives kids a chance to learn at their own pace.

visit edinburgh with toddler

The National Museum has exhibits about the natural world, art and design, science and technology, and archeology. You can spend a whole afternoon interacting with exhibits! And it’s a great indoor activity for when the unpredictable Scottish weather gets too wet for outdoor excursions.

Entry to the National Museum of Scotland is free. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day.

9. Museum of Edinburgh

If you’re looking for another indoor activity, head to the Museum of Edinburgh , located in the Royal Mile. This museum focuses specifically on the history of Edinburgh, covering religious movements and other historical moments of the city. You’ll also see collections of decorative art.

visit edinburgh with toddler

The Museum of Edinburgh is free to enter. And it’s open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. If you have young kids, be sure to check out the family learning space with activity sheets and learning quests to engage the kids.

The Museum of Edinburgh is part of the Museums and Galleries of Edinburgh collection. After your visit to the Museum of Edinburgh, be sure to check out the Writer’s Museum, the People’s Museum, and the Museum of Childhood.  Entry into all these museums is free.

10. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

To get a glimpse into medieval technology, head to the Camera Obscura and World of Illusion . A camera obscura is a darkened room with a hole and mirrors above it that projects an image of the outside onto a concave table in the center of the room. This technology existed since around the 10th century, and at the time, people thought it was witchcraft!

visit edinburgh with toddler

We visited a camera obscura at Torre Tavira when we were in Cadiz with kids , and loved it. Coincidentally, the guide at the Camera Obscura in Edinburgh told me that the Edinburgh one was the inspiration for the Cadiz one. 

The Camera Obscura in Edinburgh is also a museum of illusion. On the floors leading up to the top floor, you’ll find various exhibits focusing on optical illusions. 

Entry to the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is ÂŁ21.95 for adults and ÂŁ16.95 for kids. The Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is open every day from 8 am to 10 pm.

Learn more about the amazing family travel resources we use for worldschooling!

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Outdoor places and public spaces

Scotland is well known for its lush greenery and stunning landscape. And just because you’re in a city, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the outdoors too. Below are a few places where you can enjoy outside time in Edinburgh.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Keep in mind, Scotland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so if you’re planning for some outdoor time, be sure to pack layers and a waterproof jacket. And have an indoor backup plan!

Read about our top nomad essentials for travel.

11. Arthur’s Seat

If you’re in the mood for a good hike, head over to Arthur’s Seat. Located at Holyrood Park and made from an ancient volcano, Arthur’s Seat reaches a height of 822 feet. You can get some great views of Edinburgh from the top of it!

visit edinburgh with toddler

There are multiple trails that lead up to the top of Arthur’s Seat. Some are steeper than others. Allow 1-2 hours to climb to the summit.

12. The Meadows and The Royal Botanic Garden

If you’re in the mood for outdoor running around, relaxing, or people watching, head to The Meadows. This expansive park has grassy fields for playing cricket, tree-lined paths for strolling, a playground, and a cafe. There’s also a community garden.

visit edinburgh with toddler

The Meadows is also a popular spot for dog walking and picnics. In the spring, this park is a great spot to see cherry blossoms. And it’s also a frequent venue for festivals and markets.

Alternatively, if you’re more interested in seeing flowers and plants, head to the Royal Botanic Garden, on the other side of the city. This garden is over 350 years old, and features Scottish native plants as well as plants from all over the world. The Royal Botanic Garden is open daily and is free to enter.

13. Grassmarket Square

Another public space worth visiting is Grassmarket. This open space at the south end of Victoria Street is surrounded by restaurants and pubs. It also offers a great view of Edinburgh Castle.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Grassmarket played an important role in Edinburgh history as it historically was a public market space. It also used to be the place for public executions. There’s a stone platform memorializing the Coventanters movement that’s located roughly where the gallows used to be.

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Unique tours for an Edinburgh 3 day itinerary

If you’re a worldschooling family like us, then you enjoy learning during your travels. One of the best ways to learn about the places you visit is by taking a guided tour. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

The tours on this list are a mix of fun and learning. And best of all, they’re perfect for all ages!

14. Hop on hop off bus

We love doing hop on hop off buses when we get to a new city. It gives us a chance to get to know the lay of the land and pass by all the attractions in one go. We did a hop on hop off bus tour in Paris and it was so much fun!

visit edinburgh with toddler

If your time in Edinburgh is limited, a hop on hop off bus tour is a great way to cover a lot of ground. The City Sightseeing hop on hop off bus takes you to stops like St. Andrew’s Square, Grassmarket, John Knox House, and Canongate, which gives you access to many of the city’s main attractions.

The buses run from 9am to 6pm, leaving stops every 12 minutes. Your ticket is good for 24 hours.

15. Harry Potter walking tour

If you’re Harry Potter fans like we are, then you’ll want to take a Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh. The city of Edinburgh serves as the inspiration for much of J.K. Rowlings’ stories - from the names of characters to places like Diagon Alley and Hogwarts. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

The Harry Potter walking tour that we recommend is the Immersive Harry Potter Walking Tour from See Your City . The 2 hour tour takes you to places that were important to the making of the Harry Potter books, including Greyfriar’s Kirkyard and Victoria Street. 

One unique part of the tour was getting “sorted” into the four houses (I was sorted into Hufflepuff), and competing with the other houses to answer Harry Potter trivia questions. We almost won the cup, but Ravenclaw beat us by 5 points!

16. Food tour

Scotland is famous for its haggis, a delicacy made from sheep’s offal mixed with fat and oatmeal. But if you’re not familiar with haggis, eating the dish can be quite intimidating.

visit edinburgh with toddler

One of the best ways to get comfortable with this Scottish delicacy - and other Scottish food and drink - is to take a food tour. Eat Walk Tours , a Scottish-owned company, offers walking food tours of Edinburgh that’s perfect for adventurous eaters. Tours last around 2 hours and includes food and drink tastings at five locations throughout Edinburgh.

17. Ghost Bus Tour in Edinburgh

Fans of ghosts and comedy should not miss a ride on the Ghost Bus of Edinburgh . We took the Ghost Bus tour when we were in London with kids and we loved it! And this time around, it was even better. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

This bus tour takes visitors to many of Edinburgh’s haunted spots. The tour stops at St Cuthbert’s Church, where you can stop to take pictures of the graveyard and Edinburgh castle. Throughout the tour, the guide provides commentary about the ghosts who supposedly haunt these places, along with bad jokes and puns.

The Ghost Bus tour lasts around 1.5 hours. Tickets are £19 for adults and £14 for kids. There’s a family ticket available for £51 that covers 2 adults and 2 kids. Just a note, while the Ghost Bus tour is less horror and more comedy, there are some jump scares. So this tour might not be suitable for really young kids.

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Day trip from Edinburgh

If you’re planning an Edinburgh 3 day itinerary, items worth building in some time for excursions. Taking a day trip to places outside of Edinburgh is a great way to experience more of Scotland’s landscape, culture, and history. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

We spent a lot of time exploring the outskirts of Edinburgh, especially spending time in the Scottish Borders. There’s just so much to see when you get outside of the city. 

Here are a few suggestions for day trips to take during your Edinburgh 3 day itinerary.

18. Loch Lomond

No visit to Scotland would be complete without a trip to a loch (the Scottish word for lake). If you are in the mood for a day trip from Edinburgh, Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest loch at Trossachs National Park, is just a 1.5-2 hour drive from the city. We unfortunately did not get a chance to visit Loch Lomond while we were in Edinburgh with kids, but heard wonderful things about the loch.

visit edinburgh with toddler

You can self-drive to Loch Lomond by renting a car. Alternatively, you can join a tour. These are a few tour options you can book to take a day trip out to Loch Lomond. 

Expect to spend 4-6 hours on the day trip. Tours take you to Loch Lomond, the Kelpies Monument (the largest sculpture of horses in the world) and Stirling Castle.

Book one of these Loch Lomond tours:

Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond Small Group Day Trip (by Rabbie’s )

Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle Tour (by Timberbush Tours )

19. Coastal villages

Another must-do in Scotland is a visit to one of the country’s coastal villages. If you’re a fan of Marvel movies, consider making a trek out to St. Abbs, located just over an hour away. This beautiful coastal village was the setting for New Asgard in the movie, End Game . The nearby nature reserve, St. Abbs Head, is a great place for hiking. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

Alternatively, you can head to St. Andrews, about a 1.5 hour drive north of Edinburgh. The town is home to St. Andrews Castle and St. Andrew Cathedral, both ruins from Medieval Scotland. 

You’ll also find the Old Course at St. Andrews, the oldest golf course in the world (golf was invented in Scotland!). If you’re not in the mood to drive, book a guided tour to St. Andrews. This one is led by Rabbie’s .

If you don’t want to venture too far out of Edinburgh, you can still get a coastal experience by heading to Leith, located in the north of the city. There, you’ll find the Royal Yacht Britannia (the late Queen Elizabeth’s former yacht) and the Water of Leith Walkway .

20. Scottish Highlands

One of the draws of Scotland are the Scottish Highlands. This area is located in the northern part of Scotland, and is where the famous Loch Ness is located. We unfortunately did not have time to visit the Scottish Highlands during our time in Scotland, but if your schedule allows it, consider booking a day trip to enjoy the beauty of Scotland’s landscape.

visit edinburgh with toddler

A trip to the Scottish Highlands takes a full day, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. Here are some tours you can book to the Highlands:

Loch Ness, Highlands, and Whisky Full Day Tour (by The Hairy Coo )

Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour (by Heart of Scotland Tours )

Full Day Trip To Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands (by Highland Scotland Tours )

Bonus: Visit the Scottish Borders

While most people tend to associate Scotland with Edinburgh and the Highlands, a visit to the Scottish Borders is also worth considering. This region borders England, and played an important role in Scottish history, especially during the period of English invasion and conquest.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Noteworthy spots in the Scottish Borders include Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott. Another place to visit is the Great Tapestry of Scotland, which consists of over 100 giant cross-stitch panels that showcase over 12,000 years of Scottish history. Melrose Abbey and Rosslyn Chapel are also beautiful churches to visit.

Take a look at this tour from Timberbush Tours that takes you through the Scottish Borders to Rosslyn Chapel, Melrose Abbey, and a local whisky distillery.

Read about other destinations to visit in the UK !

visit edinburgh with toddler

Get a 10-day itinerary for Scotland from our friends at Wanderlust Crew !

Sample itineraries for 3 days in Edinburgh

Hopefully, this list of things to do in Edinburgh will give you plenty of ideas to fill your 3 days in Edinburgh itinerary. But just in case you’re still feeling stumped about how to plan your Edinburgh visit, here are some sample itineraries to choose from.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Edinburgh 3 day itinerary for history lovers

If you’re a history lover, this 3 day Edinburgh itinerary is just for you. It covers all the historic spots of Edinburgh and lets you take a step back into time.

Start your three day itinerary with a tour through Old Town and the Royal Mile. The next day, head to New Town, and then spend an afternoon at the National Museum of Scotland. Finally, spend the last day of your itinerary with an excursion to a coastal village, ending the day at Grassmarket Square.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Day 1 

Day 2 

  • Scott Monument
  • Coastal villages
  • Grassmarket Square

Edinburgh 3 day itinerary Harry Potter fans

For lovers of the Harry Potter series, this tour features spots in Edinburgh that inspired the stories. 

Start the first day of your itinerary with a Harry Potter walking tour, lunch on Victoria Street, and an evening Ghost Bus tour to get in the spooky spirit. On the next day, spend more time exploring the Harry Potter spots. And then end your 3 days in Edinburgh itinerary with a visit to the Scottish Highlands.

visit edinburgh with toddler

  • Victoria Street
  • Ghost Bus Tour
  • Greyfirar’s Kirkyard
  • Scottish Highlands

Rainy weather Edinburgh 3 day itinerary

In the unpredictable Scottish weather, it’s helpful to have a rainy day plan for your 3 day trip to Edinburgh. This itinerary features indoor activities or things that don’t require spending a lot of time outside. 

[Prisoners of War exhibit at Edinburgh Castle]

Begin your three days with a bus tour, with stops at Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. The next day, make it a museum day. And finally, end your 3 day Edinburgh itinerary on the Royal Mile, with a visit to the Camera Obscura and afternoon tea at Clarinda’s Tea Room. 

visit edinburgh with toddler

  • Hop on hop off bus
  • Palace of Holyrood
  • Museum of Edinburgh

Walk lover's Edinburgh 3 day itinerary

If you’re blessed with pleasant weather during your time in Edinburgh, then you’ll want to spend as much time outside as possible. This itinerary features outdoor activities you can do during your 3 days in Edinburgh. 

Start your itinerary with a food tour and a walk along the Royal Mile, then finish your day with a walk to Leith. The next day, incorporate an outdoor hike at Arthur’s Seat, lunch near The Meadows, and an afternoon stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens. End your 3 day itinerary of Edinburgh with a day trip to Loch Lomond for more hiking.

visit edinburgh with toddler

  • Arthur’s Seat hike
  • The Meadows
  • Royal Botanic Gardens
  • Loch Lomond

A memorable Edinburgh 3 day itinerary

Edinburgh is truly a magical city. We absolutely loved walking through its historic streets, taking in its beauty. And we think you’ll enjoy it too!

If you’ve been dreaming of a trip to Edinburgh, then now is the time. Take all my suggestions for a great Edinburgh 3 day itinerary, and plan a trip to remember for you and your family. I know you’ll fall in love with Edinburgh just as we did!

Have you visited Edinburgh with kids? Tell me about your experience in Edinburgh in the comments!

Are you visiting Edinburgh as part of a bigger family travel adventure? Use my ebook,  Hey Kids, Let’s Go Travel!  as a resource for tools, advice, and action steps for planning your trip.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Need help thinking through how to budget for a family trip? My  Travel Budget Worksheet  is just the tool you need! Click  here  to receive your free copy by signing up for my newsletter.

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Edinburgh with kids: What to do and where to stay

Young travellers will be just as enchanted by the captivating city during a family trip

edinburgh with kids

Its tasting rooms filled to the rafters with whisky and history-steeped neoclassical architecture might have you believing that the city is an adult's playground, but don't be fooled, Edinburgh with kids is just as - if not more - magical.

You can spend the morning rambling through the medieval tangle of the Old Town’s streets, heading towards Edinburgh Castle, where reenactments and children's activities are on offer, before burning off energy in the variety of open green spaces after lunch.

And in the afternoon, why not climb the 287 steps of the the Scott Monument or head out on a boat tour that promises animal-loving youngsters the chance to spot dolphins, porpoises and even whales.

In short, exploring Edinburgh with kids is far from a chore, with a myriad opportunities for learning, playing and enjoying new experiences together.

Where to stay when visiting Edinburgh with kids

First up, you'll need somewhere to stay, and so we've also picked out our top three family-friendly hotels around Scotland's capital that will welcome you back with open arms after a day of trekking up and down the hills.

If you're planning to treat the family to a staycation in style, then the stately Balmoral Hotel , with its luxurious bedrooms, Michelin-starred restaurant and lavish afternoon teas in the Palm Court, makes for a truly regal stay for those looking to splurge.

The Balmoral takes its young guests as seriously as the adults, with a range of services for specific ages. For babies, everything from complimentary meals to cots and play mats are available. Older children get their own turndown service with milk and cookies, plus backpacks, games, books, magazines and films. Teen spa treatments are offered in the wellness centre, too.

Next up, the Rutland Hotel sits in the West End and boasts modern boutique bedrooms and two restaurants, which both offer children’s menus, along with activity packs to keep the young members of the group entertained.

The serviced apartments – located close to the hotel – are perfect for families. Two of the two-bedroom flats have their own garden, so there’s plenty of room for children to play. Cots and folding beds are available, plus toy boxes and a Nintendo Wii.

CHECK AVAILABILITY

The Radisson Blu is perfect for families, with rooms able to offer folding beds, travel cots, and a Global Explorers Activity Pack stuffed with crayons, colouring books, games, and a packet of sweets.

PlayStation 4s are also available on request, and kids will find their own bathrobes and slippers in the room, as well as a swimming pool in the basement.

Plus, the sought-after, Royal Mile location is great for kids of all ages: Edinburgh Castle, the Storytelling Centre, Museum of Childhood, Dynamic Earth and the Camera Obscura are all just a few minutes’ walk away.

Now that's sorted, let's move on to planning the itinerary... Scroll through our top picks to get a flavour of just some of the exciting - and Covid-friendly - options when exploring Edinburgh with kids.

As with all travel in the UK, you should check the local restrictions, lockdown measures and government advice for England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland before travelling.

Edinburgh Castle

edinburgh with kids

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without a visit to Edinburgh Castle , dominating the city from high up on its volcanic plug.

Venture inside to see the Scottish Crown Jewels and various items from the country’s history, including the Stone of Scone. And, if you're visiting in August, then make sure you time your visit with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (cancelled for 2021, back in 2022), a performance of the pipes and drums of Scottish regiments. The Scottish tradition is so popular that almost a quarter of a million people gather each year.

The castle has introduced limits on visitor numbers to help keep everyone safe, and you will not be able to visit without booking in advance online.

HOTELS NEAR EDINBURGH CASTLE

Scott Monument

visiting edinburgh with kids

This Victorian Gothic monument to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott is the second largest memorial to an author in world - just pipped to the post by the José Martí monument in Havana.

With 287 steps to the top and gorgeous vistas over the city once you get there, the Scott Monument is a brilliant activity if you're visiting Edinburgh with very energetic kids.

The monument sits in Princes Street Gardens and so there's plenty of space for fun, games and picnicking after you've managed to catch your breath.

HOTELS NEAR SCOTT MONUMENT

The Potter Trail

edinburgh with kids

Potter heads, now is your chance to seize your wand, robe up and join other like-minded wizard and witches on a tour of Edinburgh specifically designed for fans of the famous series.

JK Rowling wrote much of the Harry Potter series in Edinburgh and this Potter Trail will take you on a magical journey of all the spots that the author used for inspiration, from the influences behind characters and spots that inspired scenes. Plus, you might even learn a spell or two on your journey!

Everyone on the tour (including guides) must wear masks at all times, tour numbers are limited and social distancing are adhered to where possible throughout the tour.

Fancy dress optional!

The Edinburgh Treasure Trail

things to do in edinburgh with children

A treasure trail always makes for an exciting adventure, and this self-guided, themed hunt is no different. On your search for lost treasure, you'll uncover all sorts of interesting facts and anecdotes as you work together to spot and solve the clues.

The Treasure Trail route is just under two miles, comes with clear directions (no getting lost here) and can be completed at your own pace. You'll find clues on plaques, buildings, monuments and other interesting features around the city.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

edinburgh with kids

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official Scottish residence of Her Majesty The Queen, inviting visitors to spend a day following in the footsteps of historical royal figures.

Alongside stately galleries and an atmospheric Abbey beside the palace, there is a well-thought out programme of family-focused activities, like storytelling and face painting.

Tickets must be booked in advance as the palace is currently operating at a reduced capacity.

HOTELS NEAR PALACE OF HOLYROODHOUSE

Edinburgh Zoo

visiting edinburgh with kids

If you're looking for more outdoor activities to do in Edinburgh with kids then the city's zoo is the ideal place to add to your list.

Over 1000 rare animals await discovery here, including the UK’s only giant pandas - Tian Tian (Sweetie) and Yang Guang (Sunshine), currently on loan from China for 10 years.

Plus, kids will love meeting the bright pink flamingos, cool koalas and a hilarious hippopotamus. Prebooking is essential and evening visits have been introduced.

HOTELS NEAR EDINBURGH ZOO

Explore Edinburgh's Alleyways

visiting edinburgh with family

Straight out of a story book, the enchanting alleyways of Edinburgh are the perfect place to let children burn off energy as they race across the cobbles.

Some alleys (like Circus Alley pictured) are more residential and cosy, while others are lined with fudge shops, trinket boutiques and all sorts of other places to pick up some goodies.

Maid of the Forth Boat Tours

edinburgh with kids

Strap on your sea legs, because the Maid of the Forth Boat Tours run sightseeing boat trips under the iconic Forth Bridges and to lovely Inchcolm Island.

Each sailing stops off at Inchcolm Island, where you have the option of going ashore. There are lots of places to explore on the Island, from the 12th Century Abbey to the wartime ammunition tunnel and buildings. Or just relax on one of two sandy beaches here, building sandcastles and taking in the views.

Plus, animal-enthusiasts will enjoy spotting the seals, dolphins, porpoises and even whales.

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

things to do in edinburgh with kids

The World of Illusions provides an alternative to the history and culture that abounds in Edinburgh, but stimulates the mind in other ways. The attraction includes a mirror maze, where with each little flicker and bounce of light comes an optical illusion, and visitors can head through the looking glass into beyond as Alice did.

There is also the Camera Obscura - high up in a rooftop chamber - an age-old periscope, which offers the viewer spectacular panoramic views of Edinburgh.

The knowledgeable and funny guides provide the full works of a show and fascinating facts about the city that will keep everyone entertained.

Masks must be worn at all times inside and numbers are limited. Tickets must be booked in advance.

HOTELS NEAR CAMERA OBSCURA

Inverleith Park

visiting edinburgh with kids

North of the city centre, Inverleith Park is loved by locals and tourists alike, mainly for its tranquil lakes and myriad walking opportunities, in and amongst flora and fauna.

If you're visiting during the summer then the floral meadow is a lovely spot for a picnic, as is the sundial garden.

There are also a plethora of sports pitches to get some good old fashioned inter-family competition going, as well as horse riding and nature trails to explore.

BROWSE HOTELS IN EDINBURGH

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15 Things To Do In Edinburgh With Kids

visit edinburgh with toddler

Thanks to its location near the North Sea, Edinburgh is sometimes called Athens of the North alongside its other nicknames like Britain's Other Eye. Aside from being one of Europe's most beautiful cities with its rolling hills, blue waters and mountains, Edinburgh has an abundance of parks, museums, shops and charming city streets that make it a great family vacation spot. A visit to this town has something for everyone to enjoy, and if you are planning a family vacation here, you've got the right idea!

This city's Old Town was named as an official UNESCO Heritage Site in 1995 and Edinburgh itself was the first place to be called a UNESCO city of Literature. This town and all of its fun activities are best explored by foot, meaning that you and the kids will be walking around a lot. Instead of carrying your bags around all day, keep them safe and secure with one of our partners for luggage storage in Edinburgh .

visit edinburgh with toddler

See the animals at Edinburgh Zoo

Visiting the zoo is one of the most popular things to do in Edinburgh with kids. You can see lots of animals including the giant pandas, which can't be seen anywhere else in the UK. Edinburgh Zoo has been open to the public for 100 years and has ecosystems holding hundreds of animal species like the koalas, tigers, penguins and several kinds of monkeys.

In the chimp enclosure, you will find an interactive exhibit where the kids can have up-close encounters with them. The zoo has other hands-on activities that have fun things to do for children and parents, too.

Enter the World of Illusions at Camera Obscura

This activity is found in the city's Old Town near Edinburgh Castle. Its location by Castle Hill offers amazing views of the city, but the real fun begins inside. At this attraction, you will see huge moving pictures and panoramic images of the city.

The Camera Obscura show first opened its doors in 1892 and is now Edinburgh's oldest tourist attraction. Its most recent exhibit is the World of Illusions which offers a whole new experience. Your kids will be intrigued by the optical illusions and tricks of the light.

Learn at the National Museum of Scotland

There are lots of Edinburgh museums to explore and this one is the best place to learn about Scottish history in a fun way. This museum has a huge selection of artifacts dating from the medieval ages to the industrial revolution and contemporary times. If your kids are visual learners they will love the interactive exhibits offered here like science experiments, photography and playing with musical instruments.

You can learn about other cultures from around the world here, including a display on Japanese samurais and Egyptian pharaohs. There are demonstrations about the natural world, science and technology. If you get hungry or want to buy a souvenir, visit one of the nearby restaurants or gift shops.

Be amazed at Wonder World

Previously known as Leith Waterworld, the new Wonder World is a top activity for kids in Edinburgh. The soft play arena has a climbing and playing area suitable for children who are both adventurous or not. Younger kids can play safely with the toys and equipment in the baby and toddler zone and adults can watch from the on-site café.

In Wonder World, you will find ball pools, an Astroturf football pitch, go-karting and an intense drop-slide. The entire family can enjoy their time here with so many fun activities to choose from.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Visit the grand Edinburgh Castle

Read our guide on how to get around Edinburgh and then head out to one of the top places to see. Edinburgh Castle was built in the 12th century and this iconic site is the most visited place in Scotland. It has some amazing exhibits like the Crown Jewels, Great Hall and the Mons Meg; an impressive siege cannon. You can explore the castle at your own pace or follow a guided tour.

There are signs that people lived here almost 3,000 years ago and it is one of the Edinburgh landmarks that are a must-see for the whole family. Since the Bronze Age, whoever owned Edinburgh castle was known as the ruler of Scotland, which is why it was constantly under siege and why it is such an important part of the city.

Explore the Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World

One of the fun things to do when you visit Edinburgh is to take a trip to this Edinburgh insectarium. Found just outside the city, this visitor attraction is great for anyone that loves bugs, both the creepy crawlies and elegant butterflies. There is a lot to do here, making it a fun activity for small kids and older audiences.

This establishment has the longest running butterfly house on the globe and an impressive tropical garden center for plant enthusiasts. If you are feeling up to it you can hold a tarantula, snake or scorpion.

Play around in Time Twisters

This fun Edinburgh playhouse is a huge four-storey area with ropes bridges, ladders, nets and slides for children to explore. It follows an Egyptian theme that can be fun for kids and adults to explore and is a soft play center that is safe and secure.

If you have toddlers or younger children they won't be left out since there is a specific small play area for babies and infants. If you or the kids like sports, they can play games in the ball area. When the family gets hungry you won't have to go far since there is a soft play café located on site.

Get dirty at the LOVE Gorgie Farm

Found in the east end of Edinburgh, the LOVE Gorgie Farm is where you can go to learn about farm life. Aside from being an active farm, this attraction serves to teach Edinburgh residents about agriculture, handicrafts and gardening through educative courses.

You can find most of the usual farm livestock here like pigs, sheep, cows, goats, chickens and horses, to name a few. If you like smaller animals you can visit the petting zoo which has rabbits, snakes, hamsters and tortoises. The farm is free to visit but if you get hungry you can buy some delicious home-cooked meals and baking at the restaurant.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Stroll around the Royal Botanic Gardens

The gardens were built to be a student learning conservatory but have since grown to become much more. The whole establishment is huge with 70 acres dedicated to shrubs alone, a rock garden and an additional arboretum with countless trees and plants.

The Chinese Garden and duck pond will be a favorite thing to do for kids in Edinburgh. Some of the exhibits have plants that were around since the time of the dinosaurs and it is a great place to go for some city sightseeing.

Test your skills at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena

This Edinburgh climbing arena is a huge facility with activities for younger and older children, as well as adults. In the same area, you can find a fitness center, spa, climbing arena, playroom and soft play center. The youngsters can burn off some energy in the soft play center and playroom while those aged four and over can try out the mobile climbing wall.

More experienced climbers can try the dramatic climbing arena which was made inside a quarry, or work out using the 70 fitness and cardio stations. The establishment offers on-site strength training and afterward, you can relax in the sauna or treat yourself to a massage.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Celebrate life at Our Dynamic Earth

This is a museum dedicated to our planet and world culture. The building is full of hands-on activities that use innovative technology to teach its visitors about the world. You can explore the exhibits or attend a virtual tour of the museum and its eleven Earthscapes.

At Our Dynamic Earth discover what it feels like to be in a tropical rainstorm or earthquake and learn about the ice age, glaciers, mountains and the ocean floor through interactive activities. This visitor attraction is a great way for the whole family to learn about the big bang and the formation of our planet, how humans have evolved, and the life of other creatures.

Visit another world at the Potter Trail

The Potter Trail is a must-see place for all Harry Potter fans. You can see the very streets where JK Rowling wrote the Harry Potter books and catch a glimpse of the scenery that inspired her. Tours began in 2012 and now occur twice per day and are open almost every day.

The Harry Potter walking tour is free to attend or you could choose to book a private tour. On your adventure, you will visit some magical sites like the real Diagon Alley and the spot where Voldemort was buried. You can participate in a Harry Potter trivia and find out which house you would fit into.

Walk the Royal Mile

Near the West End , you've got the Royal Mile, which will take you to several of the top places in the city and is a great place to visit while exploring Edinburgh. The street spans all the way from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, with more fun things to see along the way.

While walking Edinburgh's Royal Mile you will see street performers, shops, restaurants and impressive stone buildings. There is so much to do in this area that you and the kids can stay occupied for the whole day.

Get spooked in the Edinburgh Dungeon

If you and the kids want to learn about the dark history of the city in a fun and entertaining way, take a trip to the Edinburgh dungeons. The activity takes almost an hour and a half and consists of a tour with several shows and two amusement rides.

This attraction is best suited to brave older kids since it can get scary for young children. You will experience loud noises, frightening stories and dark rooms.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Climb to the top of Arthur's Seat

If you want to take a break from the Edinburgh City Centre drive just outside of town to see the amazing Arthur's Seat. It is actually the remains of an old volcano that has been inactive for millions of years and is the perfect activity for adventurous kids.

Hundreds of people climb Arthur's Seat every day. You will find lots of dirt and gravel hiking paths to follow to the top of the steep hill, and once you reach the summit you will see amazing views of the city skyline.

What are the Best Family Activities in Edinburgh?

Best things to do with younger children, edinburgh zoo.

There are so many species that call the Edinburgh Zoo home, and young kids will love seeing all of the amazing animals.

Wonder World

Everyone can have fun at Wonder World, as there are activities made for experienced climbers and smaller guests can play on their own mini climbing wall.

Time Twisters

Toddlers will love exploring the four floors of fun at Time Twisters in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World

This attraction is enjoyable for people of all ages and your little ones will love learning about the butterflies and bugs here.

World of Illusions at Camera Obscura

Youngsters will be amazed by the tricks and illusions at this family-friendly activity.

Best Things to do with Older Children

Edinburgh dungeon.

Babies and toddlers might find it scary in the Edinburgh dungeons, which is why it is better suited to brave and mature kids.

Our Dynamic Earth

Older kids will get the most from the educative experience offered at Our Dynamic Earth.

Edinburgh International Climbing Arena

This activity has lots for grown kids to enjoy, but there is also a smaller climbing wall and soft play area for the little ones to enjoy too.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Older children will appreciate all of the beautiful plants and displays at the botanic gardens and smaller kids might get tired walking around the site.

Edinburgh Castle

This is one of the city's top visitor attractions thanks to its impressive architecture and artifacts like the Scottish crown jewels, but younger kids might get bored here.

visit edinburgh with toddler

Free Things to do with Kids

Harry potter trail.

This Harry Potter tour is fun, safe and enjoyable for people of all ages and they only ask for an optional donation at the end of the activity.

LOVE Gorgie Farm

This city farm is a great activity for all kids in Edinburgh and you don't have to pay to get in.

Arthur's Seat

To see the best views of the city and spend some time in the great outdoors, hike up this free-to-visit volcano.

You can walk this iconic street for free when visiting Edinburgh and discover all of the entertaining activities that it has to offer.

National Museum of Scotland

Edinburgh's national museum is free to enter, and with dinosaur bones and other incredible exhibits, it is the perfect activity for a family on a rainy day.

Enjoy Scotland's Capital as a Family

From zoos to parks and museums to play houses, there sure is a lot to do in Edinburgh. Everyone in the group can find something to do here and with the proper planning you can have a great family vacation. With all of the fun in store, no doubt the family will build up an appetite at every day's end! Be sure to look for tasty Edinburgh street food , another activity the kids will adore.

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visit edinburgh with toddler

Top 9 Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

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Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

From the majestic Edinburgh Castle, cobbled Royal Mile, and illusional Camera Obscura to magical Harry Potter – Edinburgh is a treat for kids of all ages.

Though the city’s brimming with endless things to see and do, in this post, I’m focusing on the attractions that my kids enjoyed and I’m sure your kids will too. Most of these attractions are located along the Royal Mile so you can easily walk from one attraction to another.

The Very Best Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids

1. visit camera obscura and world of illusions.

camera obscura mirrors

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is a fascinating must-visit place for kids and adults alike.

Located on the Royal Mile, right next to Edinburgh Castle, it’s a perfect fun spot. Camera Obscura is a Latin word that translates to the dark room.

This not-so-fancy 5-story tall building has stood head high since 1853 treating the visitors with the treasure of innumerable optical illusions, puzzles, and tricks.

Some of the most enjoyable attractions are the spy cameras that treat you to different sights of the city (Shhhh..someone’s watching you!).

The zoom and clarity of the cameras are amazing. Get lost in the Mirror Maze , Light Fantastic where you can see yourself shrinking at one point and growing giant size at the other.

camera obscura edinburgh

My kids loved the Light Fantastic so much so that they were not ready to leave the room. It was the perfect time to become taller than their parents even though for a short duration.

Another favorite is the Bewilderworld where you spin along the Vortex Tunnel or try to stay still.

Plan to spend a minimum of 3 to 4 hours so your kids can enjoy all the exhibits. Start from the top floor and make your way down. Don’t miss the beautiful views from its rooftop .

Check the official website for updated ticket prices and opening hours.

Pro Tip : You can use your Camera Obscura tickets at many restaurants to avail of discounts on food and drinks. Also, Most of the other attractions close by 5 p.m. while Obscura & World of Illusions stay open until 7:30 p.m. on weekdays and 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. on weekends, you can use the maximum advantage of the extended timings.

2. Walk the Royal Mile

edinburgh royal mile cafe

It won’t be an exaggeration to call the Royal Mile the lifeline of the city with Edinburgh Castle on one end and the Holyroodhouse Palace on the other.

Our kids absolutely loved strolling this street. The charming cobblestone alleyways are dotted vintage stone buildings, and alive with vibrant street performances. If you feel tired after all the walking, you can sit and relax at one of the cute cafes lining the street and indulge in people-watching.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in the UK with Kids

3. Join a Scottish Parliament Tour

Scottish parliament in Edinburgh

A tour of the Scottish Parliament is enlightening for the kids as they try and understand a way government operates.

The building is historically significant as well as architecturally impressive. This modern building, a recipient of major architectural awards , featuring the extensive glass panels filtering a plenty of natural light, is sure to impress you.

Open from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. , the tour of the parliament is free of cost .

There are guided tours at fixed times that can be booked in advance to explore the debating chambers, committee meetings, and workings of the parliament.

Check the official website to learn about the activities planned for a day and prior booking if required.

4. Take a Harry Potter Tour

Edinburgh is the mecca for Harry Potter fans. With imaginations running wild through the lanes of Hogwarts, there is so much to delve into.

From The Elephant Café , a self-proclaimed birth house of the Harry Potter novel to George Heriot School which draws inspiration from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to Diagon Alley , you are transported into the Harry Potter era.

There are multiple Harry Potter themed tours available that you can opt for to indulge in the tales from every nook and corner. The Potter Trail , the Harry Potter Magical Walking Tour , and the Original Harry Potter Locations Tour are some of the highly rated and most loved tours.

The Potter Trail is free to join, however, you need to book a spot through their website . They also offer private tours, which you can book via Viator or directly through their website. And the best part is that you can now experience this tour virtually from anywhere in the world! Isn’t that exciting?

All these tours are great for families, I’d suggest kids be at least 7 to 8 years old to fully enjoy the experience.

Yet, there are some who believe that Harry Potter tourism is ruining Edinburgh . I feel it’s important to remember moderation and respect as tourists to maintain the charm and heritage of the city.

Read Later: Best National Parks in the UK for Families

5. Explore the Edinburgh Castle

edinburgh castle view

A historic fortress that forms the skyline of the city is witness to the innumerable historic tales. AS you walk past huge gates, you will see the sentries standing tall in their crisp uniform. Watching the changing of the guard ceremony is an experience in itself.

There are guided tours included in the ticket that begin every 30 minutes in summer and every hour in winter. The meeting point is past the audio booth by the big clock.

Audio guides are also available in multiple languages at an additional charge.

Pro-Tip : Don’t forget to take the trivia sheet at the entrance for your kids. It’s a great activity to learn some interesting facts about the castle.

The chapel in the castle is famous for wedding ceremonies and while we were lucky to see one, it meant that we couldn’t explore the chapel itself.

We happened to visit the castle on the Queen’s birthday and felt privileged to witness an exclusive ceremony with official bands playing magical tunes and a 21-gun salute in honor of the majesty.

It was an impressive sight to see everyone celebrating their Queen’s birthday with zeal while wishing for her health and long life.

Gun salute at Edinburgh Castle

The castle is huge and would take about 2-3 hours to tour it. Depending upon your interest and time you can choose to skip or see the attractions.

  • The Great Hall: displays the weapons and armor that depict the power of the military which plays an important part.
  • The Royal Palace: the exquisite use of wood and the paintings of former rulers and queens adorn the walls.
  • Honors of Scotland: displays sparkling crowns and jewels made of gold and precious stones.
  • Mons Meg and One’o’Clock Gun: It is said that the one-o-clock gun was used by maritime sailors to set their clocks since 1861. This is still fired every day at 1 o’clock except on Sunday and Christmas. Apart from this, there are many cannons along the fortress walls.
  • Prisons of war: there are vaults and places underground that used to hold prisoners of war. You will get goosebumps hearing and seeing all the conditions that they lived in.

The Opening hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 5 or 6 pm depending upon the season. The ticket costs ÂŁ22.00 per adult (16 to 64 years), ÂŁ13.20 per child aged (7 to 15 years), and ÂŁ17.60 per senior citizen (65 years+).

Please note, If you book in advance online, you’ll get a discount. Refer to the official website for details.

You can also join a guided castle tour that includes skip-the-line tickets.

6. Climb Arthur’s Seat

edinburgh arthurs seat view

Climbing Arthur’s Seat is a must-do when in Edinburgh. As you reach the peak of this ancient volcano in Holyrood Park, you’ll be rewarded with the 360-degree views of the city and beyond.

It can take about 3 to 4 hours to hike the hill depending on the path you take and of course, your fitness level. Our kids enjoyed the hike.

If you are traveling with toddlers, I wouldn’t recommend this hike due to uneven dirt and stone trails. But for all you enthusiasts ready for some adventure, it’s worth the effort.

7. Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Located at the end of the Royal Mile, Holyroodhouse Palace is the Queen’s official Scottish residence. It welcomes visitors throughout the year, except during times when the Queen is in residence.

Check the official website for the updated ticket prices and opening hours.

Note : Photography is not allowed inside the palace except on the grounds. Cell phones to be switched off.

8. Watch a Street Performance

Edinburgh is a city full of culture. When here, you won’t want to miss the mesmerizing tunes of a bagpiper from a traditional kilt-clad man or a local artist showing off their unique skills.

We were lucky to witness quite a few cultural performances. We saw a gentleman playing the violin. So what’s special about it? The only difference was that he was using swords, knives, & saws to play the tunes.

You Might Like to Read: Best Family Day Trips from London

9. Climb the Scott Monument

Located in Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument honors Sir Walter Scott and is remarkable for being one of the tallest monuments dedicated to a writer globally.

You can join a tour to learn more about the writer himself. The star attraction is the third-floor viewing platform that affords the beautiful views of the city. There are 200+ steps to the top.

It’s open every day from 10 am to 3:30 pm. The ticket prices are ÂŁ8 per adult, ÂŁ6 per child, and ÂŁ20 for a family ticket. Check the official website for the updated information.

10. Tour a Nuclear Power Plant

edinburgh torness nuclear plant

Although not exactly in Edinburgh, we highly recommend this tour and feel it’s a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

Located about 30 miles east of Edinburgh, Torness Nuclear Power Station is a great place to impart first-hand information to the kids and get them interested in Science. And the views en route are breathtaking.

There are free tours available but must be booked 3 weeks in advance to clear the background checks. We missed the tour as we were not aware of this condition, but the visitor center was a knowledge house in itself.

Please note that the minimum age is 7 years and the tour duration is 1.5 hours. Refer to the official website for the list of activities and requirements for the tour.

Have you visited Edinburgh? Do you think we missed something on the list for your kids? Do share your favorites and fun experiences. We are all ears.

Recommended Reading:

  • Best Places to Visit in the UK with Kids
  • Best National Parks in the UK for Families
  • Best Family Day Trips from London
  • Coolest London Quotes to Inspire Your Next Visit

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A Willy Wonka-inspired experience ‘scam’ was so bad that people called the cops

People who attended a Willy Wonka-inspired “Chocolate Experience” in Glasgow, Scotland, were promised “extraordinary props, oversized lollipops, and a paradise of sweet treats” — all promoted with dreamlike, candy-colored images on its website .  

When ticketholders arrived at the event over the weekend, they instead found a sparsely decorated warehouse with nothing resembling the “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” franchise the event invoked in its advertising.

“It was just ridiculous. I mean, just very amateurish. Absolutely nothing like what was described,” said Alana Lockens, who paid £35 per ticket, or $44.40 , to take her two young kids to the experience. “For the sake of my children, we were trying to be happy and smiley so that they wouldn’t pick up on the disappointment and just tried to make the best of a bad situation.”

House of Illuminati's "Willy's Chocolate Experience" event

Outraged attendees immediately began posting their experiences online, calling the event underwhelming and a “scam.” Some people quickly likened the event to the infamous Fyre Festival , a chaotic and pricey island concert that was falsely advertised as a “once-in-a-lifetime musical experience.”

By Saturday afternoon, the experience had been canceled and local police confirmed to NBC News that they were called to the scene after attendees who felt conned began demanding refunds. And further examination, along with interviews of people hired to work the event, hints that artificial intelligence-generated media may have played a key role in creating its veneer.

The event website touted interactive exhibits, and images shared on the site couldn’t be found elsewhere on the internet through reverse image searches. Some bore known hallmarks of AI creation, most notably strange and nonsensical lettering.

Two actors hired for the event who spoke to NBC News said they were promised £500 to perform in themed costumes that weekend. They each said the script they were given appeared AI-generated because of its “gibberish” wording. And when they showed up for rehearsal Friday night, more alarm bells went off.

Michael Archibald said he heard back the same day he applied to the acting gig, which was listed on the jobs site Indeed. When he showed up to rehearse the day before the event, the warehouse still looked barebones beyond a few props, and he said costumes weren’t delivered until rehearsal was nearly over.

Things didn’t look much better when he arrived the next morning.

“I thought, this is where dreams go to die,” he said of his reaction upon walking into the warehouse Saturday. “I already could feel the embarrassment. 
 I knew the script was AI-generated, as well. I was like, this isn’t normal human writing.”

House of Illuminati's "Willy's Chocolate Experience" event

The event was hosted by the London-based event company House of Illuminati, which was incorporated just three months ago, according to the U.K. government agency Companies House. It describes itself as “a realm where fantasy and reality converge to create unparalleled immersive experiences.” The company didn’t respond to a request for comment Tuesday. 

In the hours after the event’s abrupt cancellation, House of Illuminati posted a now-deleted statement on its Facebook page promising to return attendees’ money.

“Today has been a very stressful and frustrating day for many and for that we are truly sorry. Unfortunately last minute we were let down in many areas of our event and tried our best to continue on and push through and now realise we probably should havd cancelled first thing this morning instead,” the post said. “we fully apologise for what has happened and will be giving full refunds to each and every person that purchased tickets.”

It isn’t entirely clear whether the company used AI to generate its promotional images and character scripts, and the company hasn’t addressed the topic. 

Ever since the ongoing explosion in generative AI technology made it easy for internet users to instantaneously create web copy and images from text prompts, many sellers and services have begun using AI-generated content in their marketing . Deepfakes of celebrities and influencers advertising certain products have also circulated in recent months, tricking some potential buyers.

Paul Connell, another actor hired for the event, said some scenes in the script were “absolute nonsense” and impossible to replicate without special effects. The actors said event organizers soon told them to scrap the scripts and just improvise as the characters they were supposed to play.

At one point, Connell said, the actors began to suspect that the event was a sham and that they were unlikely to receive payment for their work. But after they discussed the situation among themselves, he said, they decided to stay and try to entertain the children as best as they could.

Paul Connell in his Willy Wonka costume

“I just thought of it as I just want the kids to have a good time. So I’m going to be silly and take photographs with them and play little games with them,” Connell said. “There was a little girl dressed as an Oompa Loompa that was just really upset, because she’d expected Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and got a dirty warehouse in Glasgow.”

Connell said the situation began to deteriorate soon after the event began. He said he took a lunch break as his “sanity was starting to go” — and returned to see chaos unfolding.

“There was just a mob of people outside and inside. It was carnage,” Connell said. “I joked when I walked back in, ‘I’ve been at lunch an hour, what’s happened?’ And there was people just running everywhere, shouting, threatening the organizers.”

By then, the Police Service of Scotland had been called to the scene. A spokesperson said in an email that it wasn’t a police matter but that officers offered advice to frustrated attendees.

Lockens said she has received an email confirming her refund but hasn’t yet received the money in her account, which House of Illuminati’s post said can take up to 10 working days.

The company’s director, Billy Coull, appears to have wiped most of his online presence since he drew backlash for the event. Coull didn’t respond to requests for comment through his Instagram page. 

Disgruntled attendees have also created a Facebook group called “ house of Illuminati scam ” to share their experiences at Willy’s Chocolate Experience and organize efforts to secure refunds.

Box Hub, the event venue that rented out its space to House of Illuminati, said in an email that it has been in contact with several parents about offering its venue as a space to host another event for the families who were dismayed by last weekend’s.

“We would love to offer our venue completely free of charge as a gesture of apology on behalf of House of Illuminati, who either have no regards for the families and young children they have disappointed or are too embarrassed to comment,” operations manager Matt Waterfield wrote. 

He reiterated that Box Hub had no involvement with House of Illuminati’s event beyond renting out the Glasgow venue and said the company was “shocked to see the way this event had unravelled after being led to believe this event would be a ‘fully immersive showcase.’”

For Lockens, purchasing five tickets for her family made a sizable dent in her wallet. But she said she thought the experience would be worth it for her children, who are major fans of all things Willy Wonka. (The event’s website said it had no official affiliation with Warner Bros., which owns the rights to the Willy Wonka character.)

“It’s just not what I expected at all, and it certainly was not worth £35 per ticket,” she said. “In the midst of a cost-of-living crisis in the U.K., that’s money that most families won’t be able to afford to part with for something that was just so terrible.”

visit edinburgh with toddler

Angela Yang is a culture and trends reporter for NBC News.

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. 26 Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids (Free Options)

    Parks for play time, beaches to bathe at, castles to explore and a few more modern surprises making it a great city to visit regardless of your age. From interesting history to gory horror, outdoor adventures to family-friendly restaurants, this guide details the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids. Fun Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids. 1.

  2. 30+ Top Things To Do with Kids in Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

    Boat trip to Inchcolm Island & Abbey - 25 mins from Edinburgh. Visit Stirling Castle - 50 minutes from Edinburgh (check out our tips for visiting Stirling Castle) Blair Drummond Safari Park - 50 minutes from Edinburgh. Glasgow - 45 to 60 minutes from Edinburgh (click here for some of our top recommendations of things to do with kids in ...

  3. 21 things to do in Edinburgh with kids

    21 top things to do in Edinburgh with kids, including ideas for Edinburgh in the rain and free days out with kids, plus a Harry Potter tour. ... There's a large helping of comedy, as well as the chance to see some of Edinburgh's key sights in the Old Town and New Town, between terrifying tales of dreadful deeds across the centuries. ...

  4. 21 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh With Kids + Top Tips

    20. Experience Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. A great rainy-day activity with kids in Edinburgh is to visit Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. It's located right at the base of Edinburgh Castle and actually has some great castle views from the rooftop (might be worth it to visit just for that).

  5. 11 Awesome Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids

    National Museum of Scotland | Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids. 7. Climb Arthur's Seat. Arthur's Seat is the grassy hill jutting up from the city of Edinburgh. It is the remains of a volcano that erupted here millions of years ago. Hundreds of people a day climb Arthur's Seat for another amazing view of the city.

  6. 13 Fun Things To Do In Edinburgh With Toddlers in 2024

    One of the city's most popular family-friendly activities is visiting Edinburgh Zoo, home to the only giant pandas and koalas in the UK. This popular zoo, which houses over 1,000 rare and endangered species and is situated among 82 acres of rolling grassland, is a terrific place to take toddlers when visiting Edinburgh.

  7. 26 unmissable things to do in Edinburgh with kids

    Edinburgh is an enchanting place to visit for all ages, overlooked by a Edinburgh castle and conjuring the magic that inspired Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling wrote the books while there!). Harry Potter fans will be rapt, but Edinburgh is also great for younger kids too.

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    Children will enjoy the view of Edinburgh from this height and will marvel at Mons Meg, one of the largest cannons built in the Medieval ages. 2. Walk the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile in Edinburgh is the main thoroughfare that runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse (walking west to east).

  9. 29 Best Things To Do In Edinburgh With Kids (Free + Paid)

    2. Visit Historic Edinburgh Castle (A Top Thing to do in Edinburgh with Kids) 📍 Google Maps Link: Edinburgh Castle ⭐Insider Tip: Take a Guided Tour here- the castle grounds are huge!. It's hard to miss Edinburgh Castle; you can pretty much see it from anywhere in Edinburgh!It stands on the top of the Royal Mile and has served as a royal residence, a fortress, and even a prison!

  10. Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

    Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids: Family-friendly activities and fun things to do. See Tripadvisor's 1,720,765 traveller reviews and photos of kid friendly Edinburgh attractions

  11. Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

    Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids: Family-friendly activities and fun things to do. See Tripadvisor's 1,721,423 traveler reviews and photos of kid friendly Edinburgh attractions ... It's a must do when you visit Edinburgh. Read more. Review of: Edinburgh Old Town. Written February 26, 2024. This review is the subjective opinion of a ...

  12. 33+ Delightful Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids (2024)

    1. St. Giles Cathedral. One of Edinburgh's most recognizable landmarks is also a kid-friendly place to go in Edinburgh. St. Giles Cathedral is a great free thing to do with kids in Edinburgh, and it will especially appeal to elementary school aged children or teenagers.

  13. Edinburgh with Kids

    By: Dan Brewer. Last updated: June 10, 2022. Edinburgh is a family-friendly destination with a diverse selection of things to do. It's our kinda town; it's beautiful, has great culture and fun outdoor activities. We visited Edinburgh in July with our two kids aged 3 & 6. Here is our two days itinerary for Edinburgh with kids:

  14. 15 Things To Do With Toddlers In Edinburgh

    See Penguins at Edinburgh Zoo. Toddlers love animals and will be fascinated with a trip to the zoo. See penguins, koalas, a lion, monkeys, chimpanzee, zebra, jaguar, tigers and lots more. It's also the only place in the UK where you can see the giant pandas but book tickets for this in advance. It's free to book, but because tickets to see ...

  15. Things to Do in Edinburgh With Kids

    Edinburgh is a great city to visit with kids since it has so many fun things to do, from touring ancient castles to getting hands-on at interactive museums. In this article, you'll discover some of the top things to do in Edinburgh with kids, including major attractions as well as a few that are off the standard tourist trails. ...

  16. 20 Best Ideas For An Edinburgh 3 Day Itinerary With Kids

    The next day, incorporate an outdoor hike at Arthur's Seat, lunch near The Meadows, and an afternoon stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens. End your 3 day itinerary of Edinburgh with a day trip to Loch Lomond for more hiking. The Hub at the Royal Mile (July 2023) Day 1. Food tour.

  17. >20 Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids (with FREE map)

    Grave of Thomas Riddell. 5. Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh castle is a wonderful sight in this beautiful city, located at the end of the Royal Mile on Castle Rock. Depending on your stamina you can do a variety of tours, but it is best to book in advance to ensure a ticket.

  18. 13 Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

    Take a Harry Potter Tour. Tour Mary King's Close. Brave the Edinburgh Dungeon. Climb the Scotts Monument. Have Fun at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena. Have a Picnic in Prince's Street Gardens. Visit the Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World. Take a Trip to Blair Drummond Safari Park. Family Hotels in Edinburgh.

  19. Edinburgh with kids: How to visit, what to do and where to stay

    Venture inside to see the Scottish Crown Jewels and various items from the country's history, including the Stone of Scone. And, if you're visiting in August, then make sure you time your visit with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (cancelled for 2021, back in 2022), a performance of the pipes and drums of Scottish regiments.

  20. 15 Things To Do In Edinburgh With Kids

    See the animals at Edinburgh Zoo. Visiting the zoo is one of the most popular things to do in Edinburgh with kids. You can see lots of animals including the giant pandas, which can't be seen anywhere else in the UK. Edinburgh Zoo has been open to the public for 100 years and has ecosystems holding hundreds of animal species like the koalas ...

  21. Things to do in Edinburgh with babies and toddlers

    Edinburgh International Climbing Arena. EICA is a fitness center, climbing arena, soft play and spa all rolled into one. Children will love the playroom and soft play (which has areas for babies, toddlers and older children) and its own café where adults can relax. There is also a mobile climbing wall which is perfect for children aged four ...

  22. Top 9 Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

    The Very Best Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids 1. Visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is a fascinating must-visit place for kids and adults alike. Located on the Royal Mile, right next to Edinburgh Castle, it's a perfect fun spot. Camera Obscura is a Latin word that translates to the dark room.

  23. 2 Days in Edinburgh: The Perfect Itinerary for Your First Visit

    If you are visiting Edinburgh with kids, this is an awesome spot to visit. Six floors are filled with illusions, puzzles, and optical tricks. At the top of the building is the Camera Obscura show. During the show, see live moving images of Edinburgh projected onto a viewing table via a periscope. Or, just enjoy the view over Edinburgh from the ...

  24. A Willy Wonka-inspired experience 'scam' was so bad that people called

    Absolutely nothing like what was described," said Alana Lockens, who paid ÂŁ35 per ticket, or $44.40, to take her two young kids to the experience. "For the sake of my children, we were trying ...

  25. Willy Wonka-inspired experience sparks outrage and online mockery ...

    Families attending a Willy Wonka-inspired event in Glasgow, Scotland were promised "optical marvels" and "extraordinary props" for a ÂŁ35 ($44) ticket, but when they arrived they found a ...