Edinburgh: Family trips with kids

Edinburgh: A captivating journey where ancient history meets modern fun, perfect for families with curious kids.

Edinburgh

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to Edinburgh, a city brimming with majestic castles, interactive museums, and enchanting green spaces. From exploring royal history to encountering exotic animals and experiencing optical illusions, there's a world of discovery waiting for children of all ages. This guide focuses on activities that promise wonder and excitement, ensuring a memorable trip for parents and kids alike, making every moment in Scotland's capital an educational and entertaining experience.

Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

Explore Scotland's most famous castle, a historic fortress offering breathtaking views and fascinating tales, great for ages 6+.

Hint: half day

  • Scottish Crown Jewels at Crown Room
  • Mons Meg cannon display
  • National War Museum of Scotland
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Dynamic Earth

Journey through space and time, from the Big Bang to the present day, with immersive exhibits perfect for ages 5-12.

Hint: $19.50 pp

  • Time Machine movie experience
  • Ice Wall and Rainforest displays
  • Deep Ocean exploration
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Delight in mind-bending optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and a unique view of Edinburgh, fun for all ages.

Hint: 2-3h

  • Camera Obscura show
  • Mirror Maze
  • Vortex Tunnel
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Edinburgh Zoo

Home to giant pandas, a famous penguin parade, and over 1,000 rare and endangered animals, great for all ages.

Hint: half day

  • Giant Panda habitat
  • Penguin Parade
  • Budongo Trail chimpanzees
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

The Royal Yacht Britannia

Step aboard the Queen's former floating palace and explore five decks of royal history, suitable for ages 5+.

Hint: 2-3h

  • State Apartments
  • Engine Room
  • Royal Deck Tea Room
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Princes Street Gardens Playground

A fantastic central green space with a large, well-equipped playground for children of all ages, especially 3-10.

Hint: free

  • Climbing frames and slides
  • Swings and sandpit area
  • Picnic spots and open lawns
Theme parks & passes (Klook)

Hotels

Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket

A modern and compact hotel with family rooms available, close to transport links and city attractions.

Area: Haymarket

  • Family rooms
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
Check rates on Booking.com

Novotel Edinburgh Centre

Offering spacious family rooms, a heated indoor pool, and a kids' play area, this hotel is ideal for families.

Area: Old Town

  • Indoor pool
  • Kids play area
  • Family rooms
Check rates on Booking.com

Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh

Centrally located with comfortable family rooms, ensuring a great base for exploring Edinburgh with kids.

Area: Old Town

  • Family rooms
  • Restaurant
  • City views
Check rates on Booking.com

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

A stylish hotel featuring a swimming pool and large family suites, perfect for a comfortable family stay.

Area: New Town

  • Indoor pool
  • Family suites
  • On-site restaurant
Check rates on Booking.com

The Scotsman Hotel

Housed in a historic building, this hotel offers spacious rooms and a luxurious feel, close to major sights for families.

Area: North Bridge

  • Large rooms
  • Central location
  • Spa access
Check rates on Booking.com

Restaurants

Maison Bleue at Home

A quirky and atmospheric restaurant with a welcoming vibe, offering a diverse menu that caters to families with highchairs.

Cuisine: Scottish/French

  • Haggis Bon Bons
  • Steak Frites
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Oink

Famous for its hog roast rolls, it's a casual and quick stop perfect for families looking for a tasty, no-fuss meal.

Cuisine: Scottish Street Food

  • Hog Roast Roll with Apple Sauce
  • Hog Roast Roll with Haggis
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Civerinos Slice

A lively spot offering huge New York-style pizza slices in a fun, casual setting, ideal for kids and quick meals.

Cuisine: Italian Pizza

  • Pepperoni Slice
  • Margherita Pizza
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Frankie & Benny's

A popular family-friendly chain with a dedicated kids' menu, highchairs, and a fun atmosphere.

Cuisine: American/Italian

  • Cheeseburger
  • Kids Pasta
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Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh

Enjoy classic American fare in a vibrant, music-themed environment with a special kids' menu and highchairs available.

Cuisine: American

  • Legendary Burger
  • Kids' Roxtars Meal
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