Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids: Top Family-Friendly Activities

Things to do in edinburgh, the cadies and witchery tours

Keeping kids happy and occupied while on vacation can be a tough task, but if you are planning on spending some time in Edinburgh, you shouldn’t have that problem. There are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh with kids, and your biggest problem may well be fitting them all in on a single visit. Edinburgh is a city you will want to visit more than once anyways, so having an extensive list of kid-friendly activities is always a good idea.

As we mentioned already, there is a rather large list of things to do in Edinburgh with kids, so please do not assume that what we have here is a complete list. Our picks are designed to give you a brief look at the many family activities available in Scotland’s capital city. We are sure that you will discover plenty more while you are there.

1. Edinburgh Castle

things to do in edinburgh with kids, Edinburgh Castle

How often do you get to freely explore a castle, especially one that is still fully intact? This should be the first stop for any family looking for a fun day out. Try to be there at 1 PM, as your kids will love seeing a real live cannon being fired at that exact time. In addition to the cannon, the castle offers a range of activities that can capture the imagination of children, including guided tours and interactive displays.

Don’t miss the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, two historic artifacts that will add a touch of royal intrigue to your visit. For a more hands-on experience, check out the family-friendly workshops often held during the summer months, where children can learn about medieval life, from sword fighting to castle defenses.

2. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

edinburgh with kids, Camera Obscura

A fun, albeit slightly trippy, collection of exhibits that features holograms optical illusions, and the chance to see the city though a giant periscope. Kids will love exploring the five floors of hands-on, interactive exhibits that challenge their perception of reality. From shrinking rooms to vortex tunnels, every corner offers a new surprise, making it a fun-filled adventure for the whole family.

For those who enjoy a bird’s-eye view, the Rooftop Terrace provides stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh, with telescopes available to zoom in on landmarks across the city. This attraction is not only great for entertainment, but it also offers an educational experience, giving children a unique insight into the science behind optical illusions and how our eyes and brain work together.

3. Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo giant Panda

Always a favorite spot for families, the Edinburgh Zoo is special in that it is home to a giant panda exhibit, one of the few zoos in the world where you can see these majestic creatures. Kids will be thrilled to see not only pandas but also the zoo’s famous penguin parade, where the penguins waddle out for a daily walk, delighting visitors of all ages. Make sure to check the schedule in advance, as these events are popular and not to be missed!

The zoo also offers several interactive experiences, including opportunities to feed the animals and get up close with some of the zoo’s inhabitants. Koala Territory and the Budongo Trail, where you can observe chimpanzees in their naturalistic habitat, are also highlights for animal lovers. With spacious play areas and picnic spots, it’s easy to spend an entire day here, ensuring that both kids and adults stay entertained.

4. Museum on the Mound

Museum on the Mound, edinburgh for kids

Your little ones might cringe a little when they hear the word “museum” mentioned, but we bet their eyes will light up when they get to see what 1 million pounds looks like. The museum offers an intriguing look at the history of money, with fun, interactive exhibits that teach children about the role of banks and currency. From ancient coins to modern banknotes, the collection is sure to spark their curiosity.

For a more hands-on experience, the museum offers special activities and workshops for families, including opportunities to design your own banknotes or learn about the security features of money. With its engaging displays and interactive learning opportunities, this museum makes what could be a dry subject into a fun and educational adventure for kids of all ages.

5. Museum of Childhood

Edinburgh for kids, Museum of Childhood

Another great museum that is very much guaranteed to be entertaining to little ones. The Museum of Childhood is packed with hands-on activities, where kids can not only look at toys from different eras but also play with interactive exhibits. The museum features a large collection of toys, dolls, games, and books, offering a fascinating trip down memory lane for adults while being an exciting discovery for children.

Parents will also enjoy seeing the nostalgic displays of old toys, from Victorian-era dolls to 20th-century board games. For the little ones, there are areas specifically designed for role-playing and dress-up, allowing them to immerse themselves in imaginative play while learning about childhood through the ages.

6. The Cadies and Witchery Tours

The Cadies and Witchery Tours

If you have kids that are interested in ghosts, witches, and spooky tales, then they are going to love these tours. The guides dress up in period costumes and take you through the dark alleys and hidden corners of the old city, sharing tales of Edinburgh’s eerie past. Theatrical performances and chilling stories are sure to capture the imagination of young adventurers, making it a thrilling experience for the whole family.

The tours are not just about scary stories—they are also a great way to explore Edinburgh’s rich history. Kids will learn about the witch trials, grave robbers, and haunted places that have become part of the city’s folklore. With both daytime and evening tours available, it’s an ideal activity for families looking to add a bit of adventure and mystery to their visit.

7. Edinburgh Treasure Trail

Edinburgh Treasure Trail, edinburgh for kids

A great way to explore the city and have some fun at the same time. The Edinburgh Treasure Trail offers an exciting opportunity for families to discover hidden corners of the city while solving clues that guide you from one location to the next. The 2-mile trail is suitable for all ages, making it a perfect adventure for younger explorers who love a good puzzle.

Along the way, kids will enjoy spotting landmarks and uncovering interesting facts about Edinburgh’s history. It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a new perspective, and the interactive nature of the trail keeps everyone engaged. Best of all, the trail can be completed at your own pace, so you can stop for breaks and take in the sights along the way.


As you can see, there are plenty of find things on offer in Edinburgh that are sure to keep the kids entertained.



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