All of us like to go on a trip, and Edinburgh is one of the most gorgeous places to visit. The city is filled with history, adventure, and fun.
As an adult, there are multiple places and activities that you can do; however, as a family person with kids, you have to think about their fun activities as well.
That’s why this article lists the top 10 things to do in Edinburgh with kids, which you should try.
Contents
- 1 Top 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids
- 1.1 1. Edinburgh Castle
- 1.2 2. Camera Obscura & World of Illusion
- 1.3 3. Edinburgh Zoo
- 1.4 4. Dynamic Earth
- 1.5 5. National Museum of Scotland
- 1.6 6. Portobello Beach
- 1.7 7. The Potter Trail
- 1.8 8. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- 1.9 9. Holyrood Park & Arthur’s Seat
- 1.10 10. Edinburgh International Climbing Arena
- 2 Conclusion
Top 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids
1. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburg Castle is a must-visit place for both kids and adults. To enjoy the view of ancient Castle and the City Skyline nothing can be better than the Edinburgh Castle.
This caste is situated on Castle Rock, and this ancient fortress used to be a Royal residence and a military stronghold. Here the castle has Mons Meg which is a canon built in 1449, it was capable of firing stone balls up to 3.2km.
Besides that, your children will enjoy the Great Hall, Crown Jewel of Scotland, and especially the One O’clock Gun which fires daily except Sunday creating an exciting experience for kids.
2. Camera Obscura & World of Illusion
This destination is located near Edinburgh Castle. The Camera Obscura and World of Illusion is an interactive museum where you will find multiple amazing things like optical illusions holograms, etc.
The kids will love the mirror maze; then the swirling light vortex will make you feel like you are spinning; the camera obscura is a Victorian invention that shows you a live image of Edinburgh on a viewing table.
As you can see from the camera Obscura and World of Illusion is an incredible place where kids can spend hours having fun while learning about the science of light and illusion.
3. Edinburgh Zoo
For animal lovers, the Edinburgh Zoo is definitely at the top of the list. For both kids and adults witnessing the world’s most exotic animals is a very exciting thing.
The Edinburgh Zoo is situated over 82 acres of land and here you can find a variety of species including lions, koalas, Scotland’s giant pandas, etc.
Not only that you are the kid will also enjoy the penguin parade where the Penguins walk around with their tiny steps through the zoo.
The Edinburgh Zoo is a great place for kids to learn about different species of animals. Besides that, this place has a play area and picnic spot where your kids can play and enjoy the family picnic.
4. Dynamic Earth
Another educational yet exciting place to visit for kids is Dynamic Earth. The Dynamic Earth is a science and nature museum where the place is filled with immersive exhibits 3D experience and hands-on activities.
Here, children can discover how our planet evolved millions of years ago, with proper visual experience of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and even a tropical rainforest.
This museum also has a 360-degree planetarium where your kids can explore space with its stunning view.
Not only that there are many other activities like watching the Big Bang from a spaceship, the journey from the Arctic, etc which your kids will enjoy. And it will take a full day to roam around the Dynamic Earth.
5. National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland has multiple themed galleries where you and your kids can explore dinosaur skeletons ancient Egyptian artefacts, etc.
However one of the most popular segments of the museum is the interactive science area, where kids can play with experiment and play with technology.
Also, there kids can get mesmerized by looking into flights and vehicle mechanisms.
Another interesting thing about the National Museum of Scotland is that they host monthly “Relaxed Morning”.
There, kids with autism, dementia, or other mental health issues who prefer a relaxed atmosphere can freely roam around and enjoy a fun yet relaxing experience with their friends and family.
6. Portobello Beach
If the weather is nice and you and your kids want to spend a relaxing day then you can go to Portobello Beach. From the Edinburgh city centre, it will take a few minutes to reach the beach.
The beach has plenty of space where you can make Sand Castles with your kids, also try other activities like beach volleyball cycling sea beach picnics, etc.
Also, portobello Beach has cafes ice cream shops, and amusement arcades which would you and your kids will enjoy.
To enjoy a relaxing day or walk along the shore while experiencing the breeze and hot chocolate Portobello Beach is a great place.
7. The Potter Trail
Not only young Potterheads but also for adults the Potter trail is a must-do activity in Edinburgh. This free walking tour will take you to the real-life locations that inspired JK Rowling to build characters and scenes in the series.
Here you with your family can visit, Greyfriars Kirkyard, where you’ll find the gravestone of Tom Riddle, then explore the historic Victoria Street from where the author got the idea of Diagon Alley and even see the cafe where Rowling wrote parts of the first book.
Not only that the guides at the tour are also fun making the Edinburgh and the wizarding world journey interesting and fun for the kids.
8. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
If you are wondering where you can enjoy a relaxing yet fun day in Edinburgh with your kids then Royal Botanic Garden is the perfect place to visit.
This botanical Garden is spread across 70 acres of land and here you will find a diverse plant collection, scenic walking trails, and spaces to enjoy your time with your kids.
There you can explore the Rock Garden, the glass houses, Queen Mother’s Memorial Garden, etc., and then enjoy your lunch in a nearby restaurant or plan a picnic in the garden.
9. Holyrood Park & Arthur’s Seat
The Holyrood Park is a place where you can do outdoor activities with your kids. Also, enjoy hiking and a breathtaking view at the Arthur’s Seat.
Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano where after taking easier outs of hiking you will witness a gorgeous view of the city. Even though not all kids like to go hiking, so if your kids like it then it’s a great place to visit.
Besides that, if you have time you can also explore Salisbury Crags, St. Anthony’s Chapel ruins, etc.
10. Edinburgh International Climbing Arena
Kids love adventure and if your kids are into physical activity then Edinburgh International Climbing Arena would be a fantastic choice for them.
It is Europe’s largest climbing centre where you can find a variety of climbing wall designs for both kids and adults also from beginners to experienced levels. Also, the centre has a soft play area, especially for young children.
So for your overly active child, this fun climbing session will be an amazing experience. And don’t worry there are professional guards available for guidance and safety.
Conclusion
In the end, as you can see there are multiple attractions and things to do in Edinburgh with kids.
This city is an exciting blend of history science and exciting activities from which your kids will learn and have fun at the same time.
So for a memorable family trip in Edinburgh don’t forget to try these above-mentioned activities with your kids.