21 Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids

Ever tried pushing a pram up a cobbled hill in sideways wind while a toddler demands snacks and answers about volcanoes?

Edinburgh can look intimidating at first — historic, hilly, and full of “grown-up” things — but I promise you: this is one of the most genuinely kid-friendly cities I’ve explored.

I’m an Australian mum who fell in love with Edinburgh on a blustery day trip from Inverness. I ended up living here for two years, nannying for families with kids aged 18 months to 12 — which meant I got to see the city through their eyes.

We played hide-and-seek in the castle dungeons, made dinosaur roars echo through the National Museum, and I’ve personally wrestled more than one pram through the Vortex Tunnel at Camera Obscura (tip: take the lift).

Now, as a mum myself, I know what makes a day work — and what to skip. This isn’t one of those endless lists where half the suggestions make no sense with a toddler.

It’s a real-life tested guide to things to do in Edinburgh with kids, with places I’ve personally visited and would go back to — with toddlers or tweens in tow.

You’ll find:

• Castle moments they’ll actually remember (like the one o’clock cannon — cover those ears!)
• Rainy-day swaps that saved my sanity (hello, Wonder World)
• Snack break suggestions, toddler loos, stroller notes, and open spaces to let off steam

Quick Picks: Which Edinburgh Attractions Are Best for Your Family?

Twenty-one ideas are great until you realise you now have to decide which ones will actually work for your family.

After living in Edinburgh, exploring the city with children as a nanny and now looking at family travel through a parent’s eyes, these are the places I’d start with.

If you can only choose three…

For a first family trip to Edinburgh, my three picks would be Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile & Grassmarket, and The Real Mary King’s Close.

That doesn’t mean they’ll be the right three for every family. A toddler, a Harry Potter-obsessed eight-year-old and an adventurous 12-year-old will experience Edinburgh very differently.

And that’s really the key to planning Edinburgh with kids: don’t try to do everything. Choose the experiences that suit the family you actually have with you.

1. Edinburgh Castle: Cannons, Crown Jewels & Cobblestones

Edinburgh Castle is one of my must-dos for a first family trip to Edinburgh, but I wouldn’t try to rush it.

Give yourselves 2–3 hours and keep the rest of the day fairly flexible. The cobbles, hills and crowds can take more out of little legs than you expect.

Parent tip: There’s a café with high chairs and warm lunches inside, plus baby-change facilities.

The castle is partly pram-accessible, but I always preferred a carrier or lightweight foldable buggy because the cobbles and steps aren’t kind to wheels.

Would I book a guided tour? If your children are old enough to follow a guide and enjoy stories about battles, kings and castle life, a tour can give them something to follow rather than simply walking from room to room.

With a toddler who wants to explore at their own pace, I’d save the money and visit independently.

Check Edinburgh Castle tour availability →

Worried they’ll be bored after 15 minutes?

This is exactly the sort of place I created the Edinburgh Family Adventure for.

Tell it your child’s age and interests and it can turn your Castle visit into a personalised mission, giving them things to spot, solve and discover while you still get to enjoy one of Edinburgh’s biggest bucket-list sights.

Turn Edinburgh Castle into an adventure →

2. The Potter Trail & Royal Mile Ramble

If you’ve got a Harry Potter fan in the family (or just a curious kid who likes a good story), the Potter Trail is a surprisingly magical way to explore Edinburgh’s Old Town.

It’s a free walking tour where your robed guide takes you to the real-life inspirations behind Hogwarts like Greyfriars Kirkyard (where you can find the Riddell gravestone often associated with the name Tom Riddle) and the winding, colourful Victoria Street that looks suspiciously like Diagon Alley.

Would I book a Harry Potter tour? If your child is a big Harry Potter fan, yes — having someone tell the stories and point out the connections makes these Old Town locations much more interesting than simply walking past them.

If Harry Potter is only a passing interest, I’d save the money. You can explore Victoria Street, Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Royal Mile yourselves and still have a brilliant wander.

Check Harry Potter walking tour availability

Not into Potter? You can still explore this route solo (and for free!) and keep it fun:

• Stop to see Greyfriars Bobby
• Pop into the Museum of Childhood — it’s quirky, small, and free
• Grab an ice cream or fudge from one of the Royal Mile shops
• Duck into a tartan or cashmere store for a bit of sensory overload

Parent tip: The Royal Mile is mostly stroller-friendly, but some closes (alleyways) are steep or stepped. The museum has toilets and is a great emergency stop if someone’s about to lose it.

3. Real Mary King’s Close: Underground Edinburgh for Brave Kids

This one’s a bit of a wildcard — but if you’ve got curious older kids (ages 7+ is the sweet spot), Real Mary King’s Close is unforgettable.

It’s an underground tour beneath the Royal Mile where you walk through preserved 17th-century streets buried below the city. It’s eerie in the best way — not horror, but history with a touch of ghostly atmosphere.

The first time I went I wasn’t sure what to expect – I didn’t want something super touristy (it is, but in the best way!)

The costumed guide led us through dimly lit alleyways, telling stories of plague doctors, cramped tenements, and why the streets were sealed off.

Parent tip: It’s not suitable for prams, and toddlers will find it dark and confusing (and probably scary). But for tweens or curious kids who love Horrible Histories, this is absolute gold.

Would I book it? Yes, for older children who enjoy slightly spooky stories and history. I wouldn’t choose it for toddlers or children who are easily frightened — but for a curious tween, it’s one of my favourite ways to experience the darker side of Edinburgh’s history.

Check Mary King’s Close availability →

Ideal for families with bigger kids who want more than just pretty views — this is where Edinburgh’s real stories live.

4. National Museum of Scotland: Free, Fun & Full of Dinosaurs

If you need a break from planning (or paying), this place is your new best friend. The National Museum of Scotland is free, stroller-accessible, has baby change facilities and a café — and most importantly, kids love it.

My nanny crew used to beg to return just for the dinosaur exhibit and the interactive science floor, where you can launch a hot air balloon or build a mini car.

Toddlers can crawl and explore the play-focused areas on the ground floor, while older kids head straight for the rockets, the ancient Egypt zone, or the ever-popular Millennium Clock (don’t miss it chiming on the hour — it’s weird and wonderful).

There’s also a small but lovely rooftop terrace with views over the city — a good snack break spot if you bring something along.

It’s one of the best options for things to do in Edinburgh with kids when the weather turns, and still a highlight even on sunny days.

Bonus: it’s just a few minutes’ walk from Greyfriars and the Potter Trail route, so you can combine the two for a full morning.

Parent tip: Go early or late to avoid school groups. There are lifts throughout, but weekends can be crowded — wear them out, then reward yourself with a slice of cake in the café.

5. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions: Edinburgh’s Trippiest Rainy-Day Escape

Just steps from the Castle Esplanade, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is one of those places I didn’t expect to love — until I took a six-year-old who refused to leave.

It’s packed with optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and a rooftop view that’s fun even in drizzle.

The Vortex Tunnel was a favourite (once they realised it wasn’t actually spinning), and the mirror maze was a close second — expect squeals, photos, and possibly a few “where did you go?!” moments.

It’s great for school-age kids and tweens (and adults too!), but toddlers enjoy the lights, colours, and mirrors too — just expect to supervise closely and take your time. You can easily spend 1–2 hours here, which makes it one of my go-to rainy day activities in Edinburgh.

Parent tip: There’s no buggy access inside — you’ll need to fold or leave it at the entrance. I’d also recommend pre-booking tickets, especially on weekends or during school holidays — it gets busy and they do sometimes sell out.

🛒 Book skip-the-line tickets to Camera Obscura

It’s one of the best indoor things to do in Edinburgh with kids — and it guarantees laughs, even on the grumpiest grey day.

6. Dynamic Earth: Volcanoes, Rainforests & 360° Thrills

If your kids are into anything sciencey — dinosaurs, the ocean, the Big Bang — Dynamic Earth is a total win. It’s a fully indoor, immersive experience at the foot of Arthur’s Seat, and it’s often overlooked by tourists, which makes it feel like a bit of a hidden gem.

I brought a curious five-year-old here on a rainy weekday and she spent half an hour pressing buttons in the glacier room.

You walk through interactive zones like an erupting volcano, a tropical rainforest (complete with humidity and animal sounds), and an underwater world, ending in a 360° dome cinema.

It’s more of a one-way experience than a choose-your-own-adventure museum — perfect for kids who need structure and sensory stimulation.

Parent tip: It’s fully accessible with buggies, has a decent café on site, and timed entry means it never feels too chaotic. Expect to spend 1.5–2 hours — longer if your kids like to ask lots of questions.

🛒 Book advance entry to Dynamic Earth here

It’s a top pick for indoor things to do in Edinburgh with kids, especially if you’re combining it with a lazy wander around Holyrood Park afterwards.

7. Edinburgh Zoo: Say Hello to the Penguins

There’s something about penguins waddling in a line that delights everyone — and Edinburgh Zoo’s Penguin Wee Wadle is worth timing your visit around.

I’ve brought kids here more times than I can count, and no matter their age, the penguins were the highlight.

The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals, but it’s compact enough to not feel overwhelming, with good viewing access even for little ones.

The zoo is built on a hill — no sugar-coating that — but there are plenty of spots to rest, playgrounds to break up the walking, and cafés for emergency chips.

Bring a baby carrier if your toddler’s not into walking far, and check the daily talk schedule online before you go.

Parent tip: The play zones near the top of the hill are ideal for letting off steam before slowly winding your way down. Book online to save a few pounds and guarantee entry during school holidays.

🛒 Book advance Edinburgh Zoo tickets

Penguins, lions, playgrounds and panoramic views — it’s a full-day family outing in one ticket.

8. Portobello Beach + Pool: Sandcastles, Scooters & Ice Cream

Sometimes the best thing you can do with kids in a city is just give them space — and Portobello Beach is the place.

It’s a proper seaside escape just 20 minutes by bus from the city centre. There’s soft sand, wide pavements for scooters, and plenty of local charm: think colourful beach huts, chippies, and ice cream shops every few metres.

We’d often take the number 26 bus (get off at Portobello Town Hall) out for a morning of digging, wave-chasing, and letting toddlers burn off steam without the pressure of being “on schedule.”

For rainy days or chilly winds, Portobello Swim Centre is right on the promenade and has a warm pool with family changing rooms.

Parent tip: Bring towels, a spare outfit, and maybe a bucket and spade — there’s something about this beach that turns even city kids into sandcastle architects.

9. Princes Street Gardens Playground: Castle Views & Play Time

Tucked right in the heart of the city, Princes Street Gardens (this used to be the Nor Loch and a very grim place) has one of the best playgrounds in Edinburgh — and the view of the castle looming overhead doesn’t hurt.

It’s fenced, varied enough for toddlers and slightly older kids, and surrounded by wide lawns where you can picnic, kick a ball, or just collapse on a bench.

This became our go-to after museum mornings or city walks. I’d grab a coffee from nearby and let the kids run wild while still feeling like we were “doing Edinburgh.”

It’s also a great soft landing if you’re staying nearby or waiting for a train at Waverley.

Parent tip: There are toilets at the east end of the gardens (near the Scott Monument), but not immediately next to the play area — worth knowing before someone yells they need a wee.

10. Royal Botanic Garden: Peaceful Paths & Glasshouse Explorations

When you need a quieter day — or a buggy-friendly space for a long nap walk — the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful reset.

Entry is free (the glasshouses are ticketed), and the paths wind through trees, ponds, seasonal gardens and wide lawns that are perfect for cartwheels, picnics, or pushing a sleeping baby in peace.

I’ve taken babies here for midday naps and older kids to do leaf hunts, bug-spotting, or just roll down the hills. It’s especially gorgeous in autumn when the trees turn gold and the squirrels are out in full force.

Parent tip: There’s are a few lovely cafés with outdoor seating and baby change facilities — and the loos are far better than most public parks!

11. Arthur’s Seat: Hike a Volcano (No Dragons, Promise

You don’t have to summit the peak to enjoy Arthur’s Seat with kids. We usually took the gentler route from Dunsapie Loch, which winds slowly up to a brilliant view without the calf-burning scramble. It’s surprisingly doable with kids or a sturdy carrier if you’re bringing a baby.

It’s an adventure without needing to leave the city — wildflowers, birds, and big skies that make it feel like a proper escape. Plus, telling kids they’re climbing an extinct volcano never gets old.

Parent tip: Bring snacks, water, and layers. Edinburgh’s weather can turn quickly and there’s no shelter once you’re up there. Avoid prams — even the flatter paths are rocky.

12. Dalkeith Country Park: Fort Douglas & Woodland Wonders

If your kids love a good playground, Fort Douglas at Dalkeith Country Park will blow their minds.

It’s a huge wooden fortress with towers, rope bridges, ziplines and toddler-friendly sections — all set within a beautiful estate with walking trails, a stylish café, and plenty of parking.

I’ve spent entire mornings here without a single “I’m bored.” It’s fenced, safe, and genuinely fun — not just a token swing set.

The toddler area has soft bark underfoot and mini slides, while the big-kid zone is like something out of a fairy tale.

Parent tip: Restoration Yard café nearby is fantastic for lunch, with high chairs, buggy space, and even a small shop for bribery gifts.

13. North Berwick: Puffins, Trains & Seaside Fun

This cheerful coastal town is just a 35-minute train ride from Edinburgh Waverley and makes for one of the easiest and most rewarding family day trips.

North Berwick has sandy beaches, rockpools, a harbour, and the Scottish Seabird Centre, where kids can use remote-controlled cameras to spot puffins and gannets on the nearby islands.

We’d go for a paddle, get chips wrapped in paper, and spend hours poking around in the tide pools. It’s low-key, safe, and feels like a full holiday day out — without needing a car.

Parent tip: Trains run regularly but pack a day bag — extra clothes, snacks, and maybe a bucket. The beach is right next to the station, so you can stay spontaneous.

14. Indoor Soft Play in Edinburgh for Toddlers: Wonder World (Leith)

Rainy day saviour. That’s what Wonder World was for me — especially with under-5s. It’s big, bright, and has zones for different ages, plus a decent café and loads of space to park your buggy.

The toddler zone is padded, fenced, and not too noisy, which is rare.

Parent tip: Go early on weekends to avoid queues. Bring socks for everyone and don’t forget wipes — soft play is fun, but sticky.

15. Family-Friendly Swimming in Edinburgh: Portobello & Commonwealth Pool

When you just need to burn energy, a swim is often the answer. The Royal Commonwealth Pool has a shallow training pool perfect for little ones, while Portobello Swim Centre (mentioned earlier) is right by the beach and feels more retro but still family-friendly.

We used this as a rainy-day fallback more than once — swimming, then lunch nearby, then naps on the bus back. Once, we stayed in the warm pool so long I forgot the rain even started.

Parent tip: Check family swim times before turning up — and bring £1 coins for lockers.

16. Museum of Childhood: A Quirky Free Stop for Kids

Small, free, and a little bit odd — but kids find it weirdly delightful. The Museum of Childhood on the Royal Mile has old toys, games, and even a recreated vintage schoolroom.

It’s not interactive, but toddlers love pointing at the dolls and pressing their noses to the glass.

Parent tip: It’s a good 20-minute filler or rainy-day rescue, especially since it’s free and close to cafés and loos.

17. Best Cafés in Edinburgh with Kids: Mimi’s Bakehouse + More

Sometimes you just need a sit-down and a slice of cake. Mimi’s Bakehouse (Leith or Old Town) is one of our favourites — it’s stroller-friendly, has high chairs, and staff who don’t blink if someone’s throwing Cheerios. Their traybakes are legendary.

Other good spots include Söderberg, Loudons, and Milk — all tested with a buggy and snack-hunting child in tow.

Parent tip: Always ask for the babychino even if it’s just a cup of frothy milk, it buys you 10 minutes.

18. Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

Not all ghost tours are jump scares in the dark. Some, like Multi Sensory Undergroud Vaults or the Ghost Bus Tour, are tailored to curious kids who want a spooky story without nightmares. We tried one of these with a brave eight-year-old and it hit the sweet spot: history, humour, and just enough chills.

Parent tip: Check the age recommendation carefully. Some tours say “family” but are still too intense for under-10s. Book ahead as they fill quickly in high season.

19. The Chocolatarium: Chocolate-Making Fun for Families

Yes, a whole place about chocolate. And yes, it’s as good as it sounds. The Chocolatarium is a hands-on experience where kids (and adults) learn about cocoa, taste samples, and even make their own chocolate bar to take home. It’s central, easy to book, and surprisingly educational.

Parent tip: Book well ahead — spaces are limited. Great for birthdays or a rainy-day treat with grandparents in tow.

20. Ocean Terminal: Soft Play + Indoor Family Fun

This shopping centre in Leith isn’t glamorous, but it’s dry, warm, and has a soft play centre, family dining, and views of the Royal Yacht Britannia. We’d come here for soft play, then wander the mall or grab lunch — ideal when no one wants to be outdoors. I once spent 3 hours here waiting out a rainstorm with nothing but a Peppa Pig ride and a muffin. It worked.

Parent tip: Bring pennies for the kiddie rides and avoid weekends if you hate crowds. There’s underground parking and decent buggy access.

21. Waterstones Princes St: Bookshop Calm with Kids

Not all bookshops are toddler-friendly — this one is. The Waterstones on Princes Street has a well-stocked kids’ section with little tables, beanbags, and space to sit and flick through books.

It’s quiet, warm, and a lifesaver when you need a calm 30 minutes in town. This was my go-to bribery spot: promise a new book and you’ll get five quiet minutes in the buggy.

Parent tip: Combine it with a visit to the nearby café or use it as a wind-down stop before heading to Waverley Station.

Family Travel FAQs: Edinburgh with Kids

You’ve Chosen What to See, Now Make It Fun for the Kids

You’ve picked Edinburgh Castle. You want to wander the Royal Mile. Maybe Mary King’s Close is on your list too.

The problem isn’t finding things to do in Edinburgh.

It’s spending a small fortune on an attraction you’ve dreamed of visiting, only to hear “I’m bored” 15 minutes after you arrive.

That’s why I created the Edinburgh Family Adventure.

Tell it where you’re going, your children’s ages and what they’re interested in, and in less than five minutes it turns your Edinburgh attraction or neighbourhood into a personalised mission for them.

They might have things to spot, clues to solve, challenges to complete or stories to uncover all built around the place you already wanted to visit.

So you don’t have to choose between seeing Edinburgh and keeping the kids happy.

You get to enjoy your Edinburgh bucket list. They get an adventure of their own.

Turn your Edinburgh day into a family adventure →