20 Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

Edinburgh, the breathtaking capital of Scotland, is unlike any other city in the UK. Bursting with history, lively locals and cultural relics, Edinburgh is truly a playground of endless adventures for families.

Whether you’re local, on a UK Staycation or visiting from abroad, there are family activities to please everyone. From historic Scottish castles to interactive science exhibits, there’s never a dull moment in this unique Scottish city. Get ready to embark on a family-friendly journey through Edinburgh’s most thrilling attractions with our list of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids!

All You Need to Know About Going to Edinburgh with Kids

Is Edinburgh a good destination for kids?

Absolutely! With its mix of historical sites, kid-friendly Scottish museums, and fun activities in the great outdoors, Edinburgh offers something for children of all ages. The city’s compact size also makes it easy to navigate with kids.

Where is the best place to stay in Edinburgh for families?

For families, staying in the city centre is ideal due to its proximity to major attractions. The Old Town offers historic charm right in the centre of all the action, while Edinburgh’s upmarket New Town is only a stone’s throw from the famous Princes Street and Waverley Station. Areas like Stockbridge and Leith are also popular for their family-friendly activities in Edinburgh and access to stunning parks like Leith Links Play Parks and tasty Scottish restaurants like The Scran and Scallie.

Are there outdoor activities for children in Edinburgh?

Yes, there are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh with kids outside such as climbing Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano overlooking the city, visiting Portobello Beach, and having a picnic in Holyrood Park.

Can we find kid-friendly food options in Edinburgh?

Definitely, Edinburgh has one of the most thriving food scenes in the UK and is bursting with tons of delicious family-friendly options! From casual cafes like the Clock Cafe in Dalry to family-friendly restaurants like MUMs Comfort Food, Edinburgh offers a variety of dining options that cater to children’s tastes.

20 Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

1. Go on a Harry Potter Tour

Opening Times: Tours typically run multiple times a day. Check specific tour operators for schedules.
How to Get There: Harry Potter tours in Edinburgh usually start from the city centre, easily accessible by bus or tram.
Average Cost: £15-£20 per person.
Kicking off our list of fun things to do in Edinburgh with kids is something to please all Potterheads big and small. Edinburgh is actually the birthplace of the boy wizard and is home to tons of notable sites that inspired J.K Rowling while she wrote these much-loved books like Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Elephant House and the City Chambers. By taking a Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh, you can wander through the magical world of Harry Potter with guided tours that take you to iconic locations from the books and movies. A must for young wizards and witches!

2. Stroll through Edinburgh’s Farmers Market

Opening Times: Saturdays, 9 am – 2 pm.
How to Get There: Located at Castle Terrace, accessible by bus or a short walk from the city centre.
Average Cost: Free entry; cost depends on purchases.

A fun free thing to do in Edinburgh with kids is visiting the local Edinburgh Farmer’s Market to enjoy fresh produce and artisanal treats. It’s a great way for kids to learn about local food and farming while you sample local produce and support small businesses. Why not pick up some delicious hams, cheeses and homemade chutneys to make some sandwiches with that you can take to The Meadows to have a budget-friendly (but delicious) picnic?

3. Explore Edinburgh Castle

Opening Times: Daily, 9:30 am – 6 pm (last entry at 5 pm).
How to Get There: Located on Castlehill; reachable by bus, tram, or a short walk from Waverley Station.
Average Cost: £20.50 for adults, £12.00 for children (5-15 years).

Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s heritage and history. Perched atop Castle Rock, this fortress offers breathtaking views of the city and a plethora of fascinating exhibits. Children can immerse themselves in tales of knights, battles, and royal intrigue as they wander through the castle’s ancient rooms and towers.

One of the highlights for families is the daily firing of the One O’Clock Gun. This tradition dates back to 1861 and offers a thrilling spectacle for visitors of all ages. Be sure to arrive early to get a good viewing spot!

4. Indulge at the Chocolatarium

Opening Times: Daily, 10 am – 6 pm.
How to Get There: Located on Cranston Street, a short walk from the Royal Mile.
Average Cost: £16 for adults, £12 for children.

Another fun thing to do in Edinburgh with kids is taking a sweet journey at the Chocolatarium, a Chocolate micro-factory in Edinburgh where kids can learn about the history of chocolate, see how it’s made, and create their own tasty treats. The Chocolatarium recommends booking in advance to avoid disappointment so make sure you plan ahead.

5. Go on a Ghost Tour

Opening Times: Evening tours, typically starting from 7 pm.
How to Get There: Tours start from various locations in the city centre.
Average Cost: £10-£15 per person.

For brave kids, Edinburgh’s ghost tours offer a spooky yet interesting adventure through the city’s haunted spots. Perfect for those who love a good scare (but maybe not advised for younger kids).

6. Relax on Portobello Beach

Opening Times: Open 24/7.
How to Get There: Bus services from the city centre (Lothian Buses).
Average Cost: Free.
Once of the best free things to do in Edinburgh with kids is enjoying a wholesome day at the nearby Portobello Beach with its golden sands and clear waters. We can’t promise the weather will be good or that the sea will be warm but it’s a great place to explore to escape the buzz of the city and enjoy some delicious fish and chips.

7. Visit Edinburgh Zoo

Opening Times: Daily, 10 am – 6 pm.
How to Get There: Located on Corstorphine Road; accessible by bus or car.
Average Cost: £21.95 for adults, £12.80 for children (3-15 years).
Home to the famous giant pandas, Edinburgh Zoo offers a day of animal adventures. Kids will love seeing the diverse range of animals and interactive exhibits.

8. Watch a Rugby Game at Murrayfield

Opening Times: Match times vary; check the schedule on the Scottish Rugby website.
How to Get There: Murrayfield Stadium, accessible by tram or bus.
Average Cost: £20-£60 per ticket, depending on the match.
Experience the excitement of a live rugby game. Murrayfield Stadium is the place to be for a fun, energetic atmosphere that the whole family can enjoy.

9. Marvel at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Opening Times: Daily, 9:30 am – 8 pm.
How to Get There: Located on Castlehill, near Edinburgh Castle.
Average Cost: £19.95 for adults, £15.95 for children (5-15 years).

Discover five floors of optical illusions and hands-on exhibits at Edinburgh’s Camera Obscura. This quirky and interactive attraction is sure to baffle and delight kids of all ages. Make sure you check out the telescope on the top floor to spy on pedestrians on the Royal Mile below.

10. Climb Arthur’s Seat

Opening Times: Open 24/7.
How to Get There: Walk from Holyrood Park or take a bus to nearby stops.
Average Cost: Free.
Another one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh with kids includes hiking up Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views of the city. It takes about an hour and is an excellent activity for families who enjoy the outdoors and fancy a bit of exercise.

11. Visit Dynamic Earth

Opening Times: Daily, 10 am – 5:30 pm.
How to Get There: Located at Holyrood Road, accessible by bus or a short walk from the Royal Mile.
Average Cost: £15.50 for adults, £9.95 for children (3-15 years).
Take a journey through time at Dynamic Earth, where interactive exhibits bring the story of our planet to life. Perfect for curious young minds.

12. Edinburgh Dungeons

Opening Times: Daily, 11 am – 5 pm.
How to Get There: Located on Market Street, near Waverley Station.
Average Cost: £18.95 for adults, £14.95 for children (4-15 years).

For a thrilling experience, visit the Edinburgh Dungeons where history meets horror. The immersive shows and rides are spooky fun for older kids while they learn all about the dark history of Edinburgh involving grave robbers, cannibals and more! The interactive shows, special effects, and exhilarating rides are designed to both educate and entertain but it’s particularly suited for older kids and teens who enjoy a good scare, while also learning about the city’s eerie history.

13. Have a Picnic at Holyrood Park

Opening Times: Open 24/7.
How to Get There: Walk from the Royal Mile or take a bus to nearby stops.
Average Cost: Free.

Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in Holyrood Park. This expansive green space offers a variety of spots for picnicking, with stunning views of Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags. Families can take leisurely walks along the numerous trails, explore the ruins of St. Anthony’s Chapel, and enjoy spotting local wildlife. Holyrood Park also features ponds where kids can feed ducks and swans, making it a perfect place for a peaceful and scenic family outing.

14. Explore the National Museum of Scotland

Opening Times: Daily, 10 am – 5 pm.
How to Get There: Located on Chambers Street, accessible by bus or a short walk from the Royal Mile.
Average Cost: Free.

With its vast collection of exhibits, the National Museum of Scotland offers endless exploration. From dinosaurs to space travel, there’s something for everyone at this family-friendly Edinburgh museum, located a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile.

15. Wander the Royal Botanic Garden

Opening Times: Daily, 10 am – 6 pm (summer), 10 am – 4 pm (winter).
How to Get There: Located on Arboretum Place, accessible by bus.
Average Cost: Free.

Next on our list of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids is visiting the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden. Spanning over 70 acres, the garden features a stunning collection of plants from around the world. Kids will love the diverse plant species, the interactive exhibits, and the glasshouses that house exotic plants. There’s a special children’s garden with hands-on activities designed to engage young minds. Families can also explore the Chinese Hillside and the Rock Garden, each offering unique landscapes. Don’t forget to visit the John Hope Gateway, which offers exhibits, a cafe, and a shop selling garden-related items.

16. Museum of Childhood

Opening Times: Daily, 10 am – 5 pm.
How to Get There: Located on the Royal Mile, easily accessible by bus.
Average Cost: Free.

Next up on our list of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids is an educational and fun visit to the Museum of Childhood, where children can see toys from the past and even play with some vintage games. This family-friendly museum explores all aspects of British childhood and has been a firm favourite among tourists and locals alike since 1955.

17. Edinburgh International Climbing Arena

Opening Times: Daily, 9 am – 10 pm.
How to Get There: Located in Ratho, accessible by car or bus.
Average Cost: £10-£15 per session.

For active kids, the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena offers climbing walls suitable for all ages and skill levels. The arena is well-equipped housing indoor climbing rooms, soft play, a gym and a cafe that are bound to keep the whole family entertained.

18. The Royal Yacht Britannia

Opening Times: Daily, 10 am – 5 pm (last entry at 4 pm).
How to Get There: Located at Ocean Terminal, accessible by several Lothian Buses routes (11, 22, 34, 35, 36).
Average Cost: £18.00 for adults, £9.75 for children (5-17 years), free for children under 5.

Set sail on a royal adventure aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia, the former floating residence of Her Majesty The Queen. Kids can explore the five main decks, from the luxurious State Apartments to the gleaming Engine Room. Interactive displays and the free audio guide (available in both adult and child-friendly versions) make it an engaging experience. Highlights include the Royal Deck Tea Room, where families can enjoy refreshments, and the Crew’s Quarters, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the crew. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the children’s treasure hunt and the complimentary Royal Badge for young explorers.

19. Scottish Storytelling Centre

Opening Times: Daily, 10 am – 6 pm.
How to Get There: Located on the Royal Mile, accessible by bus.
Average Cost: £5-£10 per event.
Another fun thing to do in Edinburgh with kids is listening to fascinating Scottish stories at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Kids can enjoy performances, workshops, and a variety of storytelling events.

20. Walk the Water of Leith Walkway

Opening Times: Open 24/7.
How to Get There: Accessible from various points including Stockbridge and Dean Village.
Average Cost: Free.

To get the little ones out into the fresh air, take a scenic walk along the Water of Leith. It’s a tranquil escape from the city bustle, perfect for a family stroll and spotting local wildlife. Along the Walkway, you’ll pass historic Edinburgh sites like:

• Colinton Village
• Craiglockhart Dell
• The Union Canal
• Saughton Gardens
• Murrayfield Stadium
• The Scottish Gallery of Modern Art
• Dean Village
• Stockbridge
• The Royal Botanic Garden and Leith

The Walkway can also be cycled and is wheelchair friendly making it a free and accessible Edinburgh activity for kids.

Which of these fun things to do in Edinburgh with kids will you choose?

Edinburgh truly is a fantastic destination for families, brimming with fun things to do with kids that cater to all interests and ages. From historical adventures and magical Harry Potter tours to outdoor fun and interactive child-friendly museums, there’s no shortage of things to do with children in this vibrant Scottish city. We recommend staying for a few days to truly immerse yourself in everything Edinburgh has to offer, but if you’re up for an action-packed day trip, you can still cover all the hot spots like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and Dynamic Earth.

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