The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

Edinburgh, Scotland’s captivating capital, is a city where ancient history meets vibrant modern culture. With its dramatic castle, secret closes, and endless green spaces, it’s a destination that truly ignites the imagination for travelers of all ages. This master guide uncovers the best family attractions and activities in Edinburgh, blending iconic must-sees with exciting interactive experiences and charming local secrets for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh with kids or looking for ranked best things to do in Edinburgh with kids, we’ve got you covered!

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Must-See Landmarks & Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

Dominating the city skyline from Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers a thrilling journey through Scottish history. Kids will love exploring the battlements, imagining knights and royalty, and discovering the Crown Jewels. The One O’Clock Gun provides an exciting, loud surprise that usually delights children and adults alike.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Admission varies by season, so booking online is recommended for the best rates, and family tickets are available for savings.
• Stroller Access: Access for strollers is limited due to the castle’s steep inclines, numerous stairs, and historic cobblestones; a baby carrier is highly recommended for families with younger children.
• Typical Duration: Plan for a visit of 2-3 hours to fully explore the castle grounds and exhibits.

Pro-Tip: Arrive early in the day, especially during peak season, to beat the largest crowds and ensure a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. You can also grab a snack or a light lunch at the Redcoat Café, which boasts spectacular views over the city.

The Royal Mile

Stretching from Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile serves as the historic backbone of the Old Town. It is a lively street brimming with street performers, unique shops selling everything from tartan to Harry Potter merchandise, and hidden closes just waiting to be explored. Older kids, in particular, will enjoy soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and searching for historical plaques that tell tales of Edinburgh’s past. Taking your time to wander here is one of the essential things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Walking along the Royal Mile is free, though individual attractions, shops, and eateries along the Mile will have their own fees.
• Stroller Access: While mostly accessible, the Royal Mile can become extremely crowded, especially closer to the Castle, making stroller navigation challenging. The cobblestone streets also present a bumpy ride.
• Typical Duration: Allow anywhere from half a day to a full day to explore thoroughly, depending on how many stops you make.

Pro-Tip: Don’t just stick to the main thoroughfare! Dive into some of the smaller “closes” (narrow alleyways) that branch off the Royal Mile. These often hide charming cafes, artisan shops, or offer unique, quiet perspectives away from the bustling main street.

Arthur’s Seat

For active families looking for invigorating things to do in Edinburgh with kids, a hike up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano offering panoramic views, is an absolute must. The walk can be quite challenging in certain sections, but the reward is breathtaking vistas of the city and the surrounding landscape. It’s a fantastic opportunity to burn off energy, get some fresh air, and enjoy nature right within the city limits.

Good to Know:

• Prices: There is no charge to hike Arthur’s Seat; it’s completely free.
• Stroller Access: This hike is not suitable for strollers due to the uneven and often rugged terrain. Baby carriers can be used for infants on easier, lower paths, but reaching the summit requires sturdy footing.
• Typical Duration: Expect a round trip of 1.5-3 hours, depending on the chosen route and your family’s pace.

Pro-Tip: Always wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, even if you’re visiting in summer, as paths can be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Remember to pack snacks and plenty of water for your ascent, and bring layers of clothing as the weather can change surprisingly quickly at the summit.

National Museum of Scotland

This magnificent museum is a treasure trove for curious minds, boasting diverse collections ranging from Scottish history and natural wonders to global cultures and cutting-edge science. Its “Adventure Planet” gallery is specifically designed for younger children with a host of interactive exhibits, while older kids will be fascinated by the colossal T-Rex skeleton and the intricate, engaging displays on Scottish history. It’s a brilliant place among the things to do in Edinburgh with kids that combines fun with learning.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry to the permanent collections is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for families. Special exhibitions, however, may have an admission fee.
• Stroller Access: The museum offers excellent stroller accessibility, with lifts and ramps conveniently located throughout all floors.
• Typical Duration: Plan for a visit of 2-4 hours to allow ample time for exploration and interaction with the exhibits.

Pro-Tip: Before your visit, check the museum’s official schedule for free family-friendly activities and workshops, which are often held during school holidays. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop terrace for some great views of the city.

Dynamic Earth

Embark on an immersive journey through Earth’s history, from the Big Bang to the present day, at Dynamic Earth. This interactive attraction features a thrilling 4D cinema, a simulated earthquake experience, and a deep-sea dive simulation, providing a truly multi-sensory adventure. It’s an educational and exciting experience that appeals to all ages, making complex science concepts fun and accessible for everyone, especially those seeking interactive things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry is ticketed, and family passes are available for better value. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot and often comes with a discount.
• Stroller Access: Dynamic Earth is fully accessible with ramps and elevators throughout the attraction, ensuring a smooth experience for families with strollers.
• Typical Duration: Allocate 2-2.5 hours for your visit to fully enjoy all the exhibits and shows.

Pro-Tip: Consider pairing your visit with a walk through Holyrood Park, which is conveniently located nearby. This offers stunning views of Arthur’s Seat and a chance to reflect on the Earth’s grand scale after your journey through time.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Escape the urban bustle into the serene 70 acres of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Kids will love exploring the various themed gardens, from the vibrant Chinese Hillside to the majestic Victorian Palm House, and spotting diverse plant life from around the world. It’s a wonderful place for a leisurely stroll, a relaxing picnic on a sunny day, or simply letting little ones run free and explore in a beautiful natural setting.

Good to Know:

• Prices: The gardens themselves are free to enter, providing a budget-friendly outdoor activity. However, tickets are required to access the Glasshouses, which house tropical and exotic plants.
• Stroller Access: Accessibility is excellent, with wide, paved paths winding throughout most of the gardens, making it easy to navigate with a stroller.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 1-3 hours, depending on how much of the garden you wish to explore and if you opt to visit the Glasshouses.

Pro-Tip: Be sure to look for the impressive giant redwood trees, which tower over visitors, and don’t miss the amazing tropical plants inside the Glasshouses. The on-site cafe serves delicious cakes, pastries, and kid-friendly meals, perfect for a mid-visit refuel.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

As the official residence of the monarch in Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse holds centuries of royal history, including captivating tales of Mary Queen of Scots. Kids can marvel at the opulent State Apartments, imagining royal banquets and events, and explore the historic ruins of Holyrood Abbey, which offers a dramatic backdrop for photos. Interactive family trails and activities are often available, specifically designed to engage younger visitors with the palace’s rich past, making it one of the fascinating things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry is ticketed, but family tickets are available, offering a more economical option for groups.
• Stroller Access: The palace is mostly accessible, though some older sections and the Abbey ruins might involve steps or uneven ground. A baby carrier can be particularly useful for navigating the Abbey ruins.
• Typical Duration: Allow 1.5-2 hours to explore the palace, state apartments, and the abbey grounds thoroughly.

Pro-Tip: Before your visit, check the palace’s website for any special family events or storytelling sessions. These can truly bring the palace’s history to life for young visitors and add an extra layer of engagement to your tour.

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Hands-on Activities & Local Favorites

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Prepare for mind-bending fun at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, conveniently located right by Edinburgh Castle. This interactive attraction features five floors packed with optical illusions, perplexing puzzles, and hands-on exhibits that challenge your perception. The absolute highlight is the Victorian Camera Obscura itself, offering a unique live view of the city projected onto a viewing table. It’s a fantastic way to engage kids of all ages with science, trickery, and a whole lot of laughter, making it one of the most entertaining things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry is ticketed, and booking online is strongly advised, especially during busy school holidays and peak tourist periods, to avoid disappointment.
• Stroller Access: Stroller access is limited due to the building’s historic nature and the presence of many stairs. This attraction is best suited for families using baby carriers or those with older children who can manage the stairs independently.
• Typical Duration: Give yourself plenty of time, approximately 1.5-2 hours, as kids will undoubtedly want to try every single illusion and exhibit.

Pro-Tip: After exploring the illusions indoors, head to the rooftop terrace for incredible panoramic views of the city. This is also where you’ll experience the fascinating Camera Obscura show, a unique way to see Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Zoo

Home to over 1,000 rare and endangered animals, Edinburgh Zoo provides a full day of family entertainment and educational discovery. Highlights include the magnificent giant pandas (which often require advance booking due to popularity), the adorable koalas, the playful penguins, and the fantastic Budongo Trail chimpanzee enclosure. Beyond the animal exhibits, there are also various play areas for kids to enjoy and informative keeper talks held throughout the day, offering deeper insights into the animals and their conservation.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry is ticketed, but you can often find significant discounts by booking your tickets online in advance.
• Stroller Access: The zoo offers very good stroller access with wide, well-maintained paths, though some areas are quite hilly. For convenience, a land train is available to help families navigate the larger distances.
• Typical Duration: Plan for a substantial visit of 4-6 hours to fully experience all the animals, shows, and play areas.

Pro-Tip: Whatever you do, don’t miss the famous Penguin Parade, which is a daily event and a huge crowd-pleaser. Arrive early to secure a good spot along the route and watch the penguins waddle past in their charming march.

The Real Mary King’s Close

Step back in time and uncover the hidden secrets of Edinburgh’s underground past at The Real Mary King’s Close. This unique guided tour takes you beneath the bustling Royal Mile into a preserved 17th-century street, revealing fascinating stories of former residents, the impact of the plague, and local folklore. It’s a spooky yet utterly captivating historical experience, perfect for older children and teens who enjoy a bit of mystery and suspense, making it one of the more unique things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry is ticketed, and booking your tour in advance is absolutely essential, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
• Stroller Access: This tour is not suitable for strollers, as it involves navigating many steps and uneven surfaces within the narrow, underground closes.
• Typical Duration: The guided tour typically lasts for about 1 hour.

Pro-Tip: Be prepared for cooler temperatures underground, even if you visit in the summer. The tour guides are exceptional storytellers, and their engaging narratives really bring the history of the close to life for all visitors.

Museum of Childhood

The Museum of Childhood offers a delightful, nostalgic trip for adults and a fascinating glimpse into the past for children. This charming museum showcases an extensive collection of toys, games, and childhood memories from different eras, spanning centuries. Kids can spot familiar playthings and marvel at how children entertained themselves before the advent of modern technology. It’s a lovely, free museum conveniently located near the Royal Mile, offering a peaceful and educational break.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry to the Museum of Childhood is free, making it a wonderful budget-friendly activity for families.
• Stroller Access: The museum offers good accessibility for strollers, with lifts available to all floors.
• Typical Duration: A visit typically lasts between 1-2 hours, allowing enough time to browse the extensive collections.

Pro-Tip: Encourage your children to identify any toys they recognize or to imagine what it would have been like to play with the older toys on display. It’s a fantastic conversation starter about childhood experiences through the ages.

Princes Street Gardens Playground

Nestled beneath the majestic Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens offers a lovely green escape and a fantastic playground specifically designed for kids. With a variety of swings, slides, and climbing frames, it’s the perfect spot for children to let off steam and burn some energy while adults can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the castle and the historic Old Town. It’s a welcome and essential break from the busy sightseeing itinerary, providing some much-needed free play.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Access to the playground and the gardens is completely free.
• Stroller Access: Accessibility is excellent, with paved paths leading directly to the playground area.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 1-2 hours, depending on how much energy your kids need to expend.

Pro-Tip: Grab some snacks or a takeaway coffee from a nearby cafe before heading to the gardens. You can then relax on a bench while the kids play. The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring and summer, making for a picturesque backdrop.

Water of Leith Walkway

For a quieter, scenic adventure, explore a section of the Water of Leith Walkway. This tranquil urban oasis follows the river through the city, passing through picturesque areas like the charming Dean Village, with its quaint architecture and rushing water. It’s a mostly flat, easy walk perfect for families with younger children or anyone seeking a peaceful stroll away from the bustling crowds. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including various birds and even otters, making it a relaxing addition to your list of things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Exploring the Water of Leith Walkway is entirely free.
• Stroller Access: The walkway is mostly good for strollers, though some sections can be unpaved or become muddy, especially after rain, so be prepared for varying terrain.
• Typical Duration: The duration varies depending on how long a section you choose to walk; 1-2 hours is usually sufficient for a good, enjoyable segment.

Pro-Tip: Start your walk near Dean Village for a truly enchanting experience. Its picturesque scenery, historic buildings, and the sound of rushing water create a unique and memorable atmosphere.

Cadies & Witchery Tours

Dive into Edinburgh’s darker, more mysterious side with a ghost tour from Cadies & Witchery Tours. These theatrical walking tours are led by entertaining, costumed guides who share chilling tales of witches, notorious murderers, and restless spirits as you explore the Old Town’s eerie closes and ancient graveyards. It’s wonderfully entertaining, historically informative, and a truly memorable experience for brave older children and teens who enjoy a bit of fright and folklore.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry is ticketed, and booking in advance is highly advised, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
• Stroller Access: These tours are not suitable for strollers, as they involve walking up and down stairs and through very narrow closes and uneven paths.
• Typical Duration: The tours typically last between 1 to 1.5 hours.

Pro-Tip: If you have slightly younger children who might get easily spooked by the dark or intense stories, consider opting for an earlier evening tour. The guides are often excellent at adapting the intensity of their stories to suit the audience present.

Deep Sea World (Fife)

Just a short drive or convenient train ride from Edinburgh, Deep Sea World in North Queensferry offers an incredible underwater adventure that makes for a fantastic day trip. Visitors can walk through Scotland’s largest underwater tunnel, observing majestic sharks, graceful rays, and countless colorful fish swimming overhead and all around them. It’s a captivating experience that provides a fascinating look at marine life from various parts of the world.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry is ticketed, and family tickets are available for better value.
• Stroller Access: Deep Sea World offers good accessibility with ramps and lifts throughout the attraction.
• Typical Duration: Allocate 2-3 hours for your visit (excluding travel time to and from Edinburgh).

Pro-Tip: For an added bonus, take the train from Edinburgh Waverley to North Queensferry. This route offers stunning views of the iconic Forth Bridges. You might even consider combining your visit with a walk across the Forth Road Bridge for an an unforgettable experience and more spectacular views.

Jupiter Artland (West Lothian)

Experience a unique blend of art and nature at Jupiter Artland, an award-winning contemporary sculpture park set within 100 acres of woodland and meadows. Kids will absolutely love the sense of discovery as they seek out imaginative and often enormous sculptures hidden amongst the trees and hills. It’s an inspiring outdoor space for children to explore, run freely, and engage with art in a playful, unconfined environment, making it a truly distinctive among the things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Good to Know:

• Prices: Entry is ticketed, and family passes are available. Note that Jupiter Artland has seasonal opening times, so always check their website before planning your visit.
• Stroller Access: While some paths are suitable for strollers, many areas are grassy and uneven, especially off the main routes. For full exploration of the park, baby carriers are highly recommended.
• Typical Duration: Plan for 2-4 hours to comfortably wander through the extensive grounds and discover all the art installations.

Pro-Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, taking advantage of the natural surroundings. The on-site cafe also offers delicious food and refreshments. Remember to allow sufficient travel time, as Jupiter Artland is located a bit outside the city center.

Scott Monument

The iconic Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott offers a unique challenge and a spectacular reward for active families. Climbing the narrow, winding staircases leads you to various viewing platforms, each offering increasingly spectacular views over Princes Street Gardens and the wider city of Edinburgh. It’s a fun, physical activity with a grand payoff of incredible vistas, making it one of the more adventurous things to do in Edinburgh with kids who are up for a climb.

Good to Know:

• Prices: There is a small entry fee to climb the monument.
• Stroller Access: The Scott Monument is not suitable for strollers due to its very narrow, spiral staircases, which can be challenging even for adults.
• Typical Duration: The entire experience, including the climb and descent, typically takes about 30-45 minutes.

Pro-Tip: The climb is definitely not for the faint of heart or those with claustrophobia, as the staircases are tight and steep. However, the views from the very top are truly worth the effort for older, adventurous kids who enjoy a physical challenge.

Want a custom plan? Use our personalized Itinerary Generator for Edinburgh!

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Planning Smart: Logistics & Timing

Navigate Edinburgh’s Hills and Cobblestones

Edinburgh is famously built on seven hills, and its historic Old Town is rich with charming but often challenging cobblestone streets. While beautiful and atmospheric, these can be tough on strollers and little legs. For easier navigation, consider bringing a sturdy compact airline-friendly stroller or even a lightweight umbrella stroller for quick trips on smoother paths. However, a baby carrier is often ideal for maneuvering through the Royal Mile and the expansive castle grounds. For everyone in the family, wear comfortable, supportive shoes, and encourage your kids to do the same to prevent tired feet and enjoy all the things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Utilize Edinburgh’s Excellent Bus Network

When exploring Edinburgh with kids, forget the car! Edinburgh’s public bus system is efficient, extensive, and surprisingly easy to use, even when traveling with children. Buses are frequent and cover most major attractions and neighborhoods, making getting around a breeze. You can conveniently pay for your fares using contactless bank cards or by having exact change. This reliable network is a stress-free way to move between all the fantastic things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Book Popular Attractions and Restaurants in Advance

Edinburgh is an incredibly popular destination, drawing large crowds, especially during school holidays and the famous festival season in August. Key attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura, and even popular family-friendly restaurants can get fully booked well in advance. To save precious time, avoid long queues, and prevent disappointment, it is highly recommended to reserve your tickets for attractions and tables at restaurants online well ahead of your visit. This foresight will make your exploration of things to do in Edinburgh with kids much smoother.

Pack Layers for Scotland’s Unpredictable Weather

Scottish weather is renowned for its quick changes, often presenting all four seasons in a single day. The most effective strategy for packing is to bring layers for everyone, including waterproof outer shells. A light rain jacket and a warm fleece are almost always good ideas, even if you are visiting in the height of summer. When preparing for your trip, consider practical items like a reliable kids travel backpack and consulting a good kids luggage buying guide for organizing all those essential layers. Don’t forget to pack any necessary travel adapters for families if you’re coming from abroad.

Consider Early Dinners or Self-Catering

Many traditional Scottish restaurants tend to start their dinner service a bit later in the evening, which might not align with younger children’s schedules. If you have little ones who eat early, it’s wise to look for family-friendly pubs that serve food all day or restaurants that offer enticing early bird menus. Alternatively, opting for self-catering accommodation can be a fantastic choice for meal flexibility, allowing you to prepare meals at your own pace and schedule after a long day of exploring all the wonderful things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

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Final Thoughts on Your Edinburgh Adventure

Edinburgh is a city truly brimming with stories, magic, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for families. From the historic grandeur of its castle and the interactive wonders of its museums to the charm of its hidden closes, there’s a unique experience waiting around every corner, ensuring plenty of memorable things to do in Edinburgh with kids. Embrace the winding streets, delve into the rich history, and enjoy the famously friendly Scottish welcome. By doing so, you’re sure to create cherished family memories in this extraordinary and captivating capital. For more comprehensive planning, check out our extensive family travel guides or explore the most child-friendly airports worldwide for seamless travel.

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