Edinburgh is an incredible city that boasts a fascinating history, stunning architecture, and exciting attractions that will keep both parents and children entertained for days. Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for the first time or returning for another adventure, there’s always something new to discover. With so many activities and sights to see, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Fear not! In this blog post, we’ll guide you through some of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids, ensuring you have a memorable family adventure in Scotland’s capital city.
Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile
One of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh is undoubtedly the Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock and boasting stunning views of the city. A visit to the castle is a must for families visiting Edinburgh with kids. From the history of Scotland’s monarchs to the famous One O’clock Gun, the castle offers plenty to see and learn. The castle is open all year round, so whether you’re visiting during the holidays or any other time of the year, there is always something happening here.
A walk down the Royal Mile, starting from the castle and ending at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is also a great way to experience Edinburgh’s rich history and culture. Along the way, you’ll come across street performers, souvenir shops, and some of the city’s oldest and most iconic buildings, including St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament Building.
For families with younger kids, the Edinburgh Castle offers guided tours tailored to their needs, complete with costumes and interactive activities. Alternatively, you can opt for an audio guide that allows kids to learn at their own pace while still having fun.
Dynamic Earth
If your family loves all things science and history, then a visit to Dynamic Earth is a must on your Edinburgh itinerary. This interactive museum takes you on a journey through the history of the Earth, from the Big Bang to the present day.
Your family can explore the wonders of our planet through interactive exhibits and immersive experiences. Learn about the forces of nature that shape our world, including earthquakes, volcanoes, and tsunamis.
One of the highlights of the museum is the 4D experience, where you can feel the power of a volcanic eruption and experience the icy temperatures of Antarctica. It’s a thrilling experience that your kids will never forget!
Dynamic Earth also offers a range of holiday activities and workshops, from science experiments to crafts, that will keep your kids entertained and learning throughout their visit. Don’t forget to check their website for upcoming events and exhibits.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is a must-visit for families with kids. It’s a fantastic place to learn about Scotland’s history, culture, and wildlife in an interactive and fun way.
The museum has a vast collection of objects and artifacts that tell the story of Scotland’s past, including prehistoric artifacts, medieval objects, and modern technology. The museum is divided into different sections, each with its own unique exhibits and displays.
The Animal World section is a favorite among kids, where they can see different species of animals from around the world. They can learn about their habitats, diets, and behaviors, making it an educational and fun experience. The Science and Technology gallery is also fascinating for kids, showcasing different inventions and discoveries throughout history.
The highlight of the museum for many visitors is the rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh. It’s a great spot for families to relax and take in the stunning scenery while their kids enjoy the outdoor play area.
Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo is one of the top-rated tourist attractions in the city. It is home to a vast collection of animals from all around the world. It’s perfect for kids of all ages who have an interest in nature and wildlife.
At the zoo, you will have a chance to see a wide range of animals such as lions, penguins, zebras, and even pandas. If you are looking to get a closer look at the animals, the zoo offers daily feeding and animal encounters. You can also enjoy interactive activities with the zookeepers who are happy to share their knowledge about the animals.
One of the most popular exhibits in the zoo is the giant panda enclosure. This enclosure is home to two giant pandas – Yang Guang and Tian Tian. Visitors can see them in their specially designed habitats, which were built to mimic their natural environment.
If you are visiting during the summer months, make sure to catch the daily penguin parade. This is where the zoo’s resident penguins take a walk around the zoo. It is a unique experience that both kids and adults will love.
Edinburgh Zoo also has on-site play parks, where kids can burn off some energy and play with a variety of outdoor activities. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes around the zoo where you can take a break and enjoy some food and drinks.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
If your kids love optical illusions and mind-bending tricks, they’ll love the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions in Edinburgh. This quirky attraction has been delighting visitors for over 150 years, and it’s easy to see why.
The main draw is the Camera Obscura itself, a Victorian-era device that projects a live image of the surrounding city onto a viewing table using mirrors and lenses. It’s like a live CCTV feed of the city, but with a quirky twist that makes it all the more fascinating.
But that’s just the start. The World of Illusions section of the attraction is filled with mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits that are sure to have your kids scratching their heads and giggling with delight. From the Vortex Tunnel to the Mirror Maze and the shrinking room, there’s something to entertain and confuse everyone.
The staff at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions are also great at engaging with visitors and explaining how the illusions work, making it a fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike.
The Real Mary King’s Close
If you’re looking for a unique and interactive experience that’s perfect for families with older kids, The Real Mary King’s Close is definitely worth checking out. Located just off the Royal Mile, this historical site offers a fascinating glimpse into what life was like in 17th century Edinburgh.
The “close” itself is actually a series of narrow streets and alleys that were once bustling with activity, but eventually became hidden beneath the city’s streets as the centuries passed. Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the site, learning about the history and stories of the people who lived and worked there.
One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to explore the restored homes and businesses of some of the close’s former inhabitants, complete with authentic furnishings and period decorations. It’s a great way to really get a feel for what life was like during that time period, and it’s sure to be a hit with history-loving kids.
One word of caution – some of the darker and more macabre elements of the close’s history are also explored during the tour, so it may not be suitable for very young or easily frightened children. However, for families with older kids who are looking for an educational and engaging experience, The Real Mary King’s Close is definitely worth a visit.
Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
If you want to explore the great outdoors and get some exercise while visiting Edinburgh, look no further than Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park. This stunning natural park is located just a short walk from the city centre, making it the perfect destination for families with kids.
The main attraction in Holyrood Park is Arthur’s Seat, a peak that offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside. The climb up the hill can be challenging for younger children, so make sure to bring plenty of water and take breaks as needed. Once you reach the top, though, the view will be worth the effort.
In addition to Arthur’s Seat, Holyrood Park is also home to several other hiking trails, picnic areas, and even a loch. Keep an eye out for the park’s resident wildlife, including rabbits, birds, and the occasional deer.
Shopping and Eating with Kids
No family vacation is complete without some shopping and dining, and Edinburgh has plenty of options for both. Here are some places to check out with your little ones.
For shopping, take a stroll down Princes Street, where you’ll find a variety of shops and department stores, including the popular clothes chain, Primark. For a more unique shopping experience, head to the Grassmarket or Victoria Street for boutique shops and independent sellers.
When it comes to dining, Edinburgh has something for everyone. For a quick snack or meal on-the-go, stop by one of the many food markets around the city, such as the Edinburgh Farmers Market or Edinburgh Street Food. For a sit-down meal, try the popular pizza joint, Dough, or the family-friendly Scottish pub, The Rose Street Brewery.
For dessert, don’t miss out on trying some of Scotland’s famous treats, such as shortbread or haggis flavored ice cream. And of course, no trip to Scotland is complete without trying some of the country’s beloved soft drink, Irn Bru.
Edinburgh offers plenty of options for families looking to shop and dine together. Just be sure to pack a few snacks and water bottles for the little ones, as exploring the city can be tiring work.