Kids Guide to Edinburgh

With its rich history, strong sense of culture and active arts scene, Edinburgh has plenty to offer children of all ages. The city centre is small enough to allow easy access to the main attractions on foot, or you can take the family for a ride on a newly built tram. We have hotels in Edinburgh in easy-to-get-to locations, so you can make the most of your family time in the Scottish capital.

Educational activities

Science buffs will love exploring the World of Illusions on the Royal Mile. Packed full of mind-boggling visual tricks and fun toys, it’s a great place for older children and teenagers to explore. The centre piece of the exhibition is the 150-year-old Camera Obscura, which uses a periscope to project a live image of the surrounding streets. Step back a few hundred years into Edinburgh’s Old Town with the Cadies and Witchery Tour. It’s a grisly history full of grim tales about frightening ghouls that have haunted the city. The tour is open to all ages, but is probably best suited to those over the age of 8. The National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street is a great pick for a fun day out if the weather is looking unreliable. It’s full of natural wonders and ancient artefacts and there are free guided tours every day to help you find the most interesting exhibits. Several of the exhibitions are created with children in mind, and the Balcony Café and Museum Brasserie serve a selection of children’s meals and treats. You can try local delicacies (with a twist), including a haggis and potato rosti. For a snapshot of local life in Edinburgh during your weekend city break head to The People’s Story Museum, which houses hundreds of stories sourced from working-class residents of the area since the 18th century.

Animal antics

Edinburgh Zoo has to be one of the best zoos in the UK, with a regular schedule of events for all the family, including late-night opening and keeper experiences. Head to Penguins Rock or stop by for one of the daily talks and feeding times to see the animals up close. For a more rustic experience, visit Gorgie City Farm and let the kids get up close with farm animals like pigs, cows and sheep.

Family fun

"Our hotels in Edinburgh offer easy access to the city centre, where you’ll find the spooky Edinburgh Dungeons. There are plenty of rides and interactive exhibits, including your very own chance to be tried in front of an angry judge who is ready to sentence you for your crimes. For something a little more low-key, stop by at Doodles Ceramics where the whole family can enjoy painting their own mugs, plates or bowls to remember the trip by. If your family loves the great outdoors, take a ride on the Maid of the Forth boat, which takes sightseers from the stunning Forth Bridge to the island of Inchcolm and back."

Delicious food

"The Scran & Scallie in Stockbridge is perfect for older children or teenagers. They serve delicious, high-quality food in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. There is a playroom and toys at the back for younger children too. Reds in Portobello is a little outside of town, but close to the coastline. They have an indoor climbing frame and soft play area, as well as retro video game machines to keep teenagers entertained too. Or try Burger Meats Bun for a reliable selection of chips and hamburgers made from the best-quality ingredients.