Hello, I would welcome any suggestions of things that kids (aged 6, 10 and 12) would like to do in Edinburgh. We would like a few museums (not too many as they loose interest after awhile) but also any sort of walks or outdoor activities would be really helpful. Also, anywhere you like to eat that would be good for kids would be helpful as well.
Thanks!
The National Museum of Scotland has many exhibitions and there will probably be something the children enjoy as well: https://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland/
There is a Geology museum that is geared to kids. And if they are Harry Potter fans, the cemetery-I think it's called Greyfriars?.
If Harry Potter fans, then a short stop at the Elephant House cafe is a must. The children may be interested in the story of Greyfriars Bobby and its owner. The dog statute is outside the pub and its owner’s grave is in the cemetery behind the pub. For eating, if they enjoy pasties, then they may like the Piemaker (38 south bridge). It’s an inexpensive and small shop but had about 20 varieties of pasties to choose from. Seating is limited, but it’s great for carry out. For walks, there’s Carlton hill, or Arthur’s Seat. Right in town are the Princes Street gardens below the castle. Craigmiller castle is a short bus ride and walk away.
Our kids enjoyed climbing the Scott Monument, exploring the castle, and climbing Arthur's Seat.
Second Badger's recommendation for the National Museum of Scotland. Lots of interactive displays, fossils, life sized models of animals etc. Not at all stuffy.
They'd also enjoy Edinburgh Castle particularly the medieval weapon demonstration.
Simple eating- the potato jackets walk-up place. Giant baked potatoes with many choices of toppings. I'm sure someone here knows the name. It's just a block off the main area.
The nighttime Haunted Tours. Explore the caverns under the city, and be entertained by the tales, some true, some ????.
What time of year? Safe travels!
Thanks everyone!
The Royal Yacht Britannia would have been a hit for mine.
The Royal Yacht for sure--you can have lunch on it also.
Dynamic Earth is the geology museum and it is always packed with kids. I thought it was great even as an adult, but I love science and found it fascinating to see how similar the explanations were, but the examples were Scottish!
If you have high energy kids look to climb King Arthur’s seat. There is a local zoo as well. The Royal Botanic Gardens are another great outdoor space. Check out the Leith Water Hike as well. It might be a good way to burn off some energy.
Lastly, I have not gone to the beach near Edinburgh, but I know that there are some. Probably not for swimming, but check out Portobello.
Pam
JK Rowling did not write her books at the Elephant House, so I wouldn't bother with it!
It's just a café.
Last time I was there, last year, there were insects climbing on the wall beside our table; and the waitress was heard to whisper to another one that "They want their coffee hot!" when my friend asked for a hotter cup than she was given.
There are many more cafes in Edinburgh that are much nicer.
If you want some Harry Potter birthplace info, here’s a decent link. She gives the Elephant Cafe a pass because she some writing there, she suggests other places for the “birth”. Sadly, none are in Edinburgh.
Davekatevy,
My daughter spent 5 months in Edinburgh and she compiled a list of her favorite places to eat.
I shared her list on this post
Your children may also enjoy the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh : )
I recommend Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh castle. I studied abroad in Edinburgh for a year and Arthur’s Seat was my favorite place in Edinburgh. The views over the city and surrounding area are amazing. Edinburgh castle is very interesting and I think kids would like it. The National Museum of Scotland is pretty interesting as well. There are a lot of things that kids would enjoy.
