TOP Family-friendly Destinations to Visit in Edinburgh

Children are a constant source of unexpected discoveries – one can never anticipate what subject or activity will capture their attention. Fortunately, Scotland boasts an extensive selection of family-oriented destinations that are sure to pique the curiosity of young learners and offer an ideal setting for a memorable day out with the family.

Scotland truly caters to children’s interests. Explore bygone eras and alternate realities at our castles, historical vessels, science museums, and other fantastic locations that are sure to delight young visitors.

Explore Edinburgh

Embark on your journey in Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. The ancient part of the city, known as the Old Town, is constructed on a sloping rock with the renowned Royal Mile (stretching from Edinburgh Castle, down to the Palace of Holyrood) where your children can witness street performers such as magicians, musicians, and buskers. 

Secure your tickets online beforehand to explore the castle, then take your kids on a walking tour of the city’s eerie underground streets.

Before heading to the loyal dog’s memorial statue and gravesite, located a brief distance beyond The Elephant House, where J.K. Rowling wrote the second and third Harry Potter novels, read the heartwarming story of Greyfriars Bobby together.

For those who are not easily scared, a visit to The Edinburgh Dungeons located near Waverley Station is sure to give you goosebumps.

Embark on a tour through Scotland’s terrifying past, guided by a group of previous inhabitants of Edinburgh. You’ll experience a mix of screams and laughter as you delve into the city’s dark and murky history.

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a popular tourist attraction located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It features various exhibits and interactive displays that showcase optical illusions and the history of photography. This destination is a must-visit for anyone interested in the art of photography or looking for a fun and unique experience in Edinburgh. With its combination of education and entertainment, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a great place to spend a few hours and learn something new while having fun.

The diverse collection at the National Museum of Scotland encompasses the history of Scotland along with exhibitions of international interest. You can learn all about Scotland’s past from the age of chivalry through to the industrial revolution and beyond. You’ll also find diverse displays on everything from the pharaohs of ancient Egypt to the samurais of Japan. The natural world, science and technology, discoveries, art and design, and world cultures are all explored. There are interactive elements and activities to suit children of all ages, including science experiments, musical instruments and unusual photo opportunities. There are also regular exhibitions and you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants. It is a fantastic location for the whole family.

The penguins are a major draw at Edinburgh Zoo, where visitors can observe them walking and swimming in the largest penguin pool in the world. Additionally, the zoo is the exclusive home to giant pandas in the United Kingdom, with the popular pair named Yang Guang and Tian Tian. For more than a century, the zoo has showcased thousands of species, including koala bears, Violet Turacos, and White-faced Saki monkeys. The chimpanzees have a unique interactive enclosure, and visitors can get an up-close experience with them while following the Budongo Trail. The zoo offers many interactive activities for children as well.