Edinburgh is one of the best cities to experience in the UK and while you may not usually associate it with being family-friendly, it is, in fact, a great location to visit with the children.
The capital of Scotland, there is an abundance of places to go and things to do that will occupy younger and older children, get imaginations going and captivate their minds.
Edinburgh is a truly beautiful city, but there is a lot to explore and the kids can be just as involved as the adults. So if you are planning a trip here for the day or as a holiday then here are some of the things to do in Edinburgh with kids.
If you are considering a holiday to Scotland, check out these 10 Unique Places to Stay in Scotland
10 Things To Do in Edinburgh with Kids
Edinburgh Castle
Location : Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG
Towering on a rock above the city, Edinburgh Castle is a pretty and regal place waiting to be explored. It is likely to be one of the first iconic things you see when you arrive as it is hard to miss. While you are there, you can explore the castle and also get to witness the Scottish crown jewels which are proudly displayed. There is also a gun salute at 1 pm each day, so if you don’t see the castle straight away you are likely to hear it.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
Edinburgh Zoo
Location : 134 Corstorphine Rd, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 6TS
Edinburgh Zoo is famous for its giant pandas, so this has to be a must-see for any animal lover within the family. The zoo is set within 82 acres, making it an impressive place filled with wonderful habitats for animals such as lions and giraffes, smaller creatures, and unique birds. In total there are over 1000 species of animals there. It is definitely worthy of a visit while you are in Edinburgh.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
The Potter Trail
Location : Greyfriars Bobby Statue Edinburgh EH1 2QE
If there are any Harry Potter fans within the family then the Potter trail has to be something you do while you are here. Edinburgh is the city where J K Rowling wrote the Harry Potter story, so while it is a must for die-hard fans, anyone will find this interesting. The tour will take you to locations that inspired specific scenes and characters. Better still this doesn’t cost you anything and is an immersive experience.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
Edinburgh Botanical Gardens
Location : Arboretum Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5NZ
Edinburgh is a truly stunning city, and when the sun shines there is no better place to visit than the Botanical gardens. A great place to take children who want to explore the outdoors. The gardens are beautiful and with so many things to see if will entice children and adults of all ages. There are 350 years of history to uncover here, and set within 70 acres of gardens and countryside, you won’t be bored.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
Calton Hill
Location : 5 Bakehouse Close, 146 Canongate Edinburgh EH8 8DD
Calton Hill is another great thing to experience while you are in Edinburgh. It might be another hill to climb but once you manage to get to the top, you will have incredible views of Edinburgh Castle and Arthurs Seat. It is home to a national monument, which was designed to be a replica of the Parthenon in Athens, however, it was never finished. At 1 pm you will be able to see the time ball drop, which was supposed to be a time check for ships out at sea. The 1 pm guns were later added in case of bad weather.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
Dynamic Earth
Location : Holyrood Road Edinburgh EH8 8AS
Discover the story of planet Earth. This unique experience will take you from the Big Bang right through to the ice ages and beyond. A definite must for children who have an interest in science, nature, and history. You will be able to see volcanic eruptions, witness the Northern Lights, and really appreciate this planet we live on. A fabulous place to visit that the whole family will enjoy.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
National Museum of Scotland
Location : Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
There is something quite special about heading to a museum and it doesn’t matter how many you attend they can all offer you a piece of history and a unique experience. The National Museum of Scotland can do just that. With many incredible exhibits and themes that run throughout the year, there is something for everyone here.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
Arthurs Seat
Location : Queens Drive, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH8 8HG
A great thing to do while in Edinburgh is to climb Arthurs Seat. It actually sits 251m above sea level and can give you some incredible views of the city. Home to an ancient fort and chapel, there is a lot to see and do while exploring the area.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Location : Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND
If you want to be amazed then your children will love heading to Camera Obscura and world of illusions. There are some fascinating exhibits here that will really get the mind working. There’s a 15-minute show that discusses and shares Edinburgh’s rich history. Once you are in you will find 100 exhibits that are designed to blow your mind. A great attraction and thing to do with your kids and it is inside which makes it an easy option if the weather isn’t so great.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
The Edinburgh Dungeon
Location : 31 Market Place Edinburgh EH1 1DF
While you may be able to take younger children to other dungeons around the UK, the Edinburgh Dungeon is only for children over the age of five, so consider this if you do want to experience this fantastic attraction. There is a lot of gruesome history here, and this immersive experience is a great one to consider if you are not afraid to try it. A popular attraction that older children will likely love.
Check out all the latest information, opening times and restrictions HERE
Considering other areas to explore Check out Things To Do in Liverpool For Kids and Things To Do in Bristol with Kids