9 Best Family Things to Do in Edinburgh

Seeing is definitely not believing inside the Victorian Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. Bendy mirrors and giant kaleidoscopes will delight young eyes at the Magic Gallery, while blue tendrils of light spark across the Giant Plasmasphere in the Electric Room.

There are 5 floors of exhibits and interactive displays that play with light and perception, all leading up to the camera obscura that gives the venue its names. See a live projection of the city created using only mirrors and daylight, a fascinating feat of science and engineering from before cameras, as we know them today, came into being.

The Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, founded in 1670, really comes into bloom in summer. The Queen Mother’s Memorial Garden is split into 4 distinct areas of the world, with plants from Asia, Europe, North America and the southern hemisphere. Look out for special summer events, such as guided walks with expert horticulturists and botanical art courses.

Hungry ducks will swim up for bread at the large duck pond, a kids’ highlight of these bucolic gardens. Enter the vast Victorian glasshouse, where little ones can try to spot the lemons among the trees or red pompom flowers in the Rainforest House.

Edinburgh's Museum of Childhood is the world's first museum dedicated to childhood, and the toys they feature have kept kids entertained for years. It's on the Royal Mile, and it's not only the kids who'll love this one, you'll be spellbound yourself on your nostalgic trip.

The museum is split over 5 floors, and there's no shortage of toys. You'll find dolls that look like those your grandma would have had, and model train sets, everything right up to modern Game Boys and Hot Wheels. Entry is free, and the whole family will find something to enjoy here.

Dynamic Earth is a science centre that offers 35 workshops and learning programmes for kids to learn about the world. With engaging exhibits that are great for everyone, children and adults alike, you’ll discover things about our planet and the wider universe that will astound and fascinate you.

Step back billions of years at this huge interactive museum, where a time machine takes you back to before dinosaurs walked the earth. You can even witness the Big Bang from the bridge of a spaceship through the Hubble telescope.

Follow the river snaking its way through Edinburgh’s Stockbridge and Dean Village neighbourhoods as it spills into the Firth of Forth. Look out for great spotted woodpecker and herons. Sharp-eyed walkers might even see an otter or badger. You’ll feel miles away from the city beneath the branches of the trees.

The Water of Leith Walkway is over 12 miles long. A good departing point is the Water of Leigh Conservation Trust and Visitor Centre, which can easily be reached by bus.

Let your family experience Edinburgh’s history coming alive at the Scotland’s Stories exhibition. In this contemporary building along the Royal Mile, look out for fun family-friendly events in the Storytelling Court and dramatic performances throughout the year.

Discover local legends and fairytales as well as the works of famous Scottish Authors including Robert Louis Stevenson who penned such famous works as Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Younger kids will enjoy exploring the worlds of Julia Donaldson and much more.

Book an Edinburgh hotel in the Old Town and venture underground to tour the Real Mary King’s Close. Older kids will love the spooky walks, where costumed guides take you back to the 17th-century underground townhouses and the stories of the people who lived there.

This part of the city is crammed full with stuff to do. The castle, St Giles’ Cathedral and the Royal Mile are all here, offering you culture and a plethora of cool shops for you to browse in and find authentic Scottish souvenirs.

Edinburgh Dungeon takes you on a journey underground for a tour of some of Edinburgh's creepiest and darkest dungeons. Found down East Market Street, it's certainly a treat, or trick, to keep the whole family happy.

The dungeon will take you on a tour of Edinburgh's history hosted by a group of professional actors. There are staged witch hunts and trials, rides to try out and all sorts of theatrical shows. There's loads of audience interaction too, so be prepared to get involved.

Pick up a Treasure Trail pack from tour companies around Edinburgh and take the family off on an adventure through the oldest parts of the city. There are clues for the children to follow and exciting secrets to uncover, as the sights of Edinburgh reveal themselves. You can download and print the self-guided treasure hunt-themed walking trail around Edinburgh Old Town in advance.

Explore the city without wandering aimlessly. The treasure trail keeps little minds occupied and lets you discover Edinburgh in a whole new way.