Edinburgh City Guide | 5 min read
The Best Family Edinburgh City Guide!
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Giedius k
16 Mar | read
The UK is an incredible place, and it feels that everywhere you look there is history, culture and exciting times waiting for you. One of the most remarkable cities you will find is Edinburgh. It's a city like no other!
Edinburgh has its own personality, one that welcomes visitors and charms them with its stories.
It's because of Edinburgh's uniqueness and excitement that we can't wait to share with you our Edinburgh City Guide that features our "Top 9 Family Attractions", which are just some of the really fun and exciting things to do in Edinburgh with kids!
So make sure you read our entire Edinburgh City Guide we have proudly created just for you and your family, so you can plan your perfect family day out in this breathtaking Scottish city - and not miss out on anything!
Main Image Credit: Forever Edinburgh
Image Credit: Forever Edinburgh
In this Edinburgh City Guide, you'll not only read our top 9 things to do with kids in this amazing city, but you'll also learn some fun experiences perfect for all ages!
We know budgets are often a consideration when you are travelling with kids and a family, so also in this Edinburgh City Guide we share with you our favourite FREE things to do that won't break your budget!
If you are visiting Edinburgh without a car, we also offer great tips on how to get around the city on public transportation, AND we share some fun facts about Edinburgh you can impress your friends with!
If you want to explore further out of the city, our Edinburgh City Guide also lists a great day trip, plus you can learn all about some famous faces born right in the city!
So whether this is your first trip saying "Yes, take me to Edinburgh"! or perhaps you have lived in the city all your life but never explored and wonder "What is there is to do near me in Edinburgh?", then keep reading because we have the top 9 things to do in Edinburgh with kids...and so much more!
Image Credit: Forever Edinburgh
Edinburgh is so rich in history, that settlements in the area saw a hillfort establed (presumably on modern-day Castle Rock) as far back as the Middle Ages. Even earlier that than, prior to the hillfort evidence of human habitation has been uncovered that shows humans in the area around 8,500 BC!
Numerous Bronze Age and Iron Age settlement traces have also been unearthed.
Between the 7th century and 10th century, the area was part of the Anglian Kingdom of Northumbria, before becoming the royal residence of Scottish kings. During the 12th century, King David I established Edinburgh as one of the country's earliest royal burghs.
By the time the 14th century came around, the area was considered the "capital of Scotland". In 1608 when James I of Scotland also became James VI of England, a union of the crowns occured yet Edinburgh remained as the location of the Parliament of Scotland.
The town thrived, before the 18th century saw New Town created which was famously built ontop of the Old Town (you can visit part of the Old Town today at The Real Mary King's Close)
Today, Edinburgh embraces the old whilst celebrating the new. The beautiful is beyond beautiful with its architecture, energy, and traditions and it makes a fabulous destination for any family trip!
Image Credit: Forever Edinburgh
You can't move in Edinburgh without seeing, smelling, experiencing or learning about history, so it won't surprise you to discover that there are SO many historical things to do with the family.
Explore the imposing yet impressive Edinburgh Castle perched high atop Castle Hill, or delve deep underground to discover life in 17th century Edinburgh at The Real Mary King's Close.
If it's museums you love, there are plenty! From the National Museum of Scotland, to the Museum on the Mound to even the Edinburgh-focused Museum of Edinburgh, the city offers a number of educational opportunities for children AND most are free admission.
Get WILD at Edinburgh Zoo, immerse yourselves in nature at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, or feel inspired by the art at the Scottish National Gallery!
With so many fun things to do in Edinburgh with the family, we know you'll soon have that family day out itinerary filling up! So kids, what do you want to enjoy first?
Image Credit: Forever Edinburgh
If you won't have a car during your time in Edinburgh, you certainly won't feel you need one. Edinburgh is not only an incredibly walkable city, but there are plenty of public transportation options for you to choose from to get you from one amazing attraction to another.
First, you have The Royal Mile. This stretch (conveniently a mile long) is home to a number of the top attractions in the city, so even just focusing a day around this area will see your itinerary checked off very quickly.
It's also worth noting that a lot of the streets and lanes within this area are narrow, steep and frequently one-way, so driving might even hinder your experience.
If you do want to explore further out beyond The Royal Mile, Lothian Buses offer a great 24 hour service with 50 routes taking you to all corners of the city. What's also great is a large number of the public buses are electric, so you can feel even better about ditching that car!
If you do pay with cash on the bus you will need exact change, otherwise they accept contactless credit/debit card as well as the M-Tickets transport app.
The local trams are another option, however with just 15 stations your destinations are more limited than the bus. If you are looking to travel to and from the main stations or the airport, the tram is perfect.
Whilst Edinburgh Castle is listed on our Top 9 Things To Do, we had to offer a special honourable mention to the iconic Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo which occurs once a year. This event is led by the Army and features hundreds of performers from all around the world, and brings the city even more to life.
During the 100-minute event, stories will bo told to celebrate the history and heritage of Scotland's global family featuring performers including the Tattoo Pipes and Drums, Tattoo Dancers and even The Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Bands of His Majesty's Royal Marines. It's a spectacle that needs to be experienced at least once!
Image Credit: Forever Edinburgh
Our Top 9 Fun Things To Do With The Kids In Edinburgh
Image Credit: Forever Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle stands impressively on Castle Rock overlooking the city, and is the most striking feature in Edinburgh, oozing history. Castle Rock was occupied by humans as far back as the Iron Age, but it was in the 12th century that a royal castle first made an appearance - and has continued to this day!
Edinburgh Castle is a brilliant historically educational experience for children, and once in the castle you'll not only enjoy incredible views of the city, but you can also visit the National War Museum which is included in your admission.
Image Credit: Dynamic Earth
Dynamic Earth is a fascinating, exciting and educational experience for the whole family where you can experience first hand the wonders of the planet, and the forces of nature that created it!
Travel at the speed of light, experience a volcanic eruption, marvel at the big bang, fly high above glaciers and so much more! Not only that, beyond the exhibits at Dynamic Earth you can journey through the stars at the Planetarium with shows and performances that will amaze and surprise! Hands-on, interactive fun with a great learning element too!
Image Credit: Edinburgh Zoo
Formerly the Scottish National Zoological Park, Edinburgh Zoo spans 82 acres home to beautiful animals from all over the world! Kids can come face to face with big cats, cheeky penguins, and charming chimps! Also at the zoo you can enjoy animal experiences, learn about the species through feedings and keeper talks, and even enjoy a dinosaur experience!
Not only is Edinburgh Zoo a wonderful day out for the kids, offering excitement, educational and a pretty WILD time, but the zoo is also located on Corstorphine Hill which offers some pretty special views of the city!
Image Credit: Royal Collection Trust
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is an incredibly facsinating insight into history, and not only that - you'll feel like a royal when you visit! That's because this incredible destination is the King's official residence when in Edinburgh as well as the home of Scottish royal history!
Past residents include Bonnie Prince Charles and Mary, Queen of Scots. There is also a 12th century Abbey on the grounds plus plenty of activities for kids to enjoy that will really enhance their learning experience!
Image Credit: The Real Mary King's Close
Step back in time and explore 400 years of history at The Real Mary King's Close! Located under modern Edinburgh, this incredible piece of history is actually the city's only preserved 17th century street. Suitable for children over 5 years, the family can enjoy a tour led by a costumed actor based on an actual former resident!
The Real Mary King's Close really is a sneak peak into the past, where you can hear stories of those who lived, worked (and yes, died) in the street - and you can even meet the Plague Doctor! An incredibly unique experience.
Image Credit: Edinburgh Dungon
History, jumps, thrills and fun all come togeether at The Edinburgh Dungeon! This iconic experience takes you on a 70-minute, interactive walk-through experience where you will meet live actors across a number of theatrical sets (and throw in some spectacular special effects and thrilling rides!) to bring 1000 years of Edinburgh and Scottish history to life!
Meet Edinburgh's baddest witch, experience a historic courtroom, escape the plague at Real Mary King's Close... so many fun and interactive elements will not only take you through the history books but might just give you a scare or two!
Image Credit: EICA
The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) is the LARGEST indoor climbing arena in Europe. How is THAT for amazing? At this incredibly climbing centre the whole family can literally climb the walls, challenging yourselves to the various colour coded routes, or even your their hand at bouldering.
Also at the EICA you'll find soft play for the younger kiddies, as well as Clip & Climb, as well as various lessons, climbing courses and even fitness classes. Not only can kids feel a sense of achievement when they reach the top, they'll also have enjoyed a great workout!
Image Credit: Camera Obscura
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a unique and fascinating Edinburgh attraction that really will blow your mind! Set across five floors, this amazing experience features over 100 interactive, hands-on exhibits that are suitable for all ages.
You can tour Edinburgh’s streets without moving, and test your brain against bizarre, mind-bending illusions! Kids can even take a spectacular city scape photograph from their impressive Rooftop Terrace. It really will make you think - but you might not be able to find an answer!
Image Credit: Go Ape
Active kids and their families will love these classic treetop adventures at Go Ape Dalkeith, located within Dalkeith Country Park! From the Treetop Challenge to Treetop Adventure Plus, there is something for everyone - and all abiliities!
It's always fun to feel a sense of achievement as you complete the ropes courses, and feel the thrill of zippling down ziplines (and yes, at Go Ape Dalkeith you can zip over water too!). Nature, great outdoors, adventure, exercise...what more could you want!?
Famous Folk From Edinburgh!
Sean Connery
Sean Connery was a popular Scottish actor, who most notably portrayed the very first James Bond in the franchise, and went on to star as the secret agent 007 in seven films.
Other highlights of his career include roles in Highlander, The Rock, and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Image Credit: Public Domain
Robert Louis Stevenson
Robert Louis Stevenson was a successful poet, novelist, essayist and travel writer.
His most notable works are now considered literary classics, and these include Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Kidnapped and most famously Treasure Island.
Image Credit: Public Domain
5 Fun Edinburgh Facts
Impress your friends with your Edinburgh knowledge!
- Some of the earliest human remains in Britain have been found in Edinburgh! Archaeologists have dated remains found in the Cramond area to 8,500 B.C!
- The Unicorn is actually the national animal of Scotland, and you'll find a Unicorn statue in Edinburgh!
- A 35km electric blanket was installed under the road's surface near The Mound to stop the road freezing in the cold months! This makes Edinburgh home to the world's largest electric blanket!
- In 1707 the Scottish Crown Jewels were hidden for safety - however they then forgot the hiding place! This meant the Crown Jewel's went missing for over 100 years, before they were found in Edinburgh Castle.
- Edinburgh is considered one of the most haunted cities in the world! BOO!
Top 5 FREE Things To Do With Kids In Edinburgh
National Museum of Scotland
Image Credit: Forever Edinburgh
The National Museum of Scotland is one of the best museums to visit with the family in Scotland, if not the UK. Here, you can explore gallery after gallery learning about topics ranging from prehistory to present day, early technology to space technology, and uncover how Scotland has evolved throughout the centuries.
Kids can learn about the planet, how nature works, and how delicate our environments are. They can explore exhibits about fashion, design, arts, technology, industry, culture and see how humans have created change across the years. A fascinating (and free admission) museum perfect for families.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Image: RBGE
One of the world's leading botanic gardens, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is where kids can experience over 350 years of history set on 70 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens! They can learn all about the wonder of plants as well as enjoy an impressive view of Edinburgh's skyline too!
A visit to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh will ensure the entire family can experience a diverse collection of plants from all around the world, as well as learn about the Garden's fascinatingly rich and diverse Living Collection. Kids can even learn about a history dating back to the 17th century!
Museum of Edinburgh
Image Credit: Museums & Galleries Edinburgh
At the Museum of Edinburgh the family can uncover the city's fascinating history through the wide and varied exhibits. Spend your day exploring the museum’s impressive maze of 16th century buildings, where you will come across iconic items and beautiful objects, as well as learn fascinating facts and even gruesome tales of the city!
Located on the historic Royal Mile, the Museum of Edinburgh fills your day with a wide range of stories and objects, offering something for all ages. Plus in addition to the permanent collections at the musuem, you'll also be able to involve yourself in a regular programme of special exhibitions too!
Scottish National Gallery
Image Credit: National Galleries
First opened to the public back in 1859, the Scottish National Gallery is the actually the national art gallery of Scotland! This free admission museum can be found on The Mound and even the building itself is impressive as it was designed in a neoclassical style by William Henry Playfair.
Here you can find works by some of the worlds most renowned art masters including Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, El Greco, Velázquez, Rembrandt, Vermeer, van Dyck, Tiepolo, Landseer, Gainsborough, and Constable.
Museum on the Mound
Image Credit: Museum on the Mound
The Museum on the Mound can be found in the Head Office of the historic Bank of Scotland, and it's at this fascinating museum kids can experience a fresh look at the world of money and see how it plays within a world of art, technology, design, trade, security and more!
Within the exhibits kids can see a million pounds (we're not kidding!) and even look at Scotland's oldest banknote. They can learn to crack open a safe, build a model home, and see money's role within our lives!
Exploring the BEST PLACES TO EAT in Edinburgh!
A Fun Day Trip From Edinburgh!
There are some beautiful day trips that you can enjoy from Edinburgh, but we wanted to continue to celebrate the rich history of the country, so our day trip pick is a beautiful town called Linlithgow. In particular, to enjoy a visit to Linlithgow Palace.
Linlithgow is located around 20 miles west of Edinburgh in West Lothian. This ancient town lies on the historic route between Edinburgh and Falkirk, and the main drawing card is the palace as this was where Mary, Queen of Scots was born.
Image Credit: Public Domain
Linlithgow Palace really is worth the short trip from Edinburgh City. The amazing 15th century ruins is where Mary, Queen of Scots was born back in 1542. Only 6 days later she became queen.
The construction of the palace began nearly 120 years prior with James I starting construction following a fire in 1424. Despite James I starting things off (he later became James IV of England), Linlithgow Palace took over 200 years to finish.
In 1650 the palace was attacked by Oliver Cromwell and then burnt in 1746. Whilst few furnishings survived, the ruins are still close to complete and make for an amazing family day out.
Beyond the palace, Linlithgow is an ancient town and haven for wildlife and is a wonderful place to explore. The town itself gained its royal status as a burgh back in 1388 under Richard II of Scotland, becoming the royal residence for Scottish Kings during the Middle Ages.
Here’s our top 3 Linlithgow things to do:
- Linlithgow Palace
- Linlithgow Museum
- Linlithgow Loch
We hope you found this content useful! Please share with your friends, and if you have any comments, or want to let us know what we can do to further help you find fun days out with the family, then just email our team at [email protected]!
Let's get the family adventure started!
Written by Giedius k
Family Days Out latest blogs and activities for kids, there are certainly plenty of great places to visit across the USA, Canada, and Australia.
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