Edinburgh Castle is one of the greatest historical sights in Europe, situated in the heart of Scotland’s capital city. The beautiful scenery is sure to impress anyone!
Discover Edinburgh Castle’s amazing history and explore The Great Hall, The Royal Palace, Crown Jewels, National War Museum and more.
There are many fun and entertaining events that take place at Edinburgh Castle such as concerts and plays. After you have learned all about the castle, there is an onsite café to relax and enjoy. Why not treat yourself to an afternoon tea, or a hearty meal of soups or sandwiches at the Redcoat Café. Also to remember the day, there is a gift shop so you can buy memorable gifts for family and friends.
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday 09:30 - 17:00
Closed 25th & 26th December.
Open 1st January 11:00 - 17:00
Pricing
Adults: £16.50
Concessions: £13.20
Kids: £9.90
Under 5's: Free
Address
Castle Hill
Edinburgh
Edinburgh and Lothian
EH1 2NG
Scotland
Contact details
0131 225 9846
www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk
2. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a very popular tourist attraction, a pleasure for all the family which captures everyone's imagination who visits. The garden features over 70 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and is located only one mile from the city centre. In the garden, you will discover the rock garden, alpines, fruit garden, glasshouses, woodland garden and other beautiful features.
There are many exciting events that take place at the Royal Botanic Garden such as, exhibitions, flower festivals, educational courses, walks and more.
Opening times
Daily
March – September: 10am – 6pm
February – October: 10am – 5pm
November – January: 10am – 4pm
Closed 25th December and 1st January.
Prices
Garden entry free, with a charge for Glasshouses.
Address
Arboretum Pl
Edinburgh
EH3 5NZ
Contact details
01312 482909
www.rbge.org.uk/the-gardens/edinburgh
3. National Monument of Scotland
There are a few castles and monuments in Scotland, great for visiting with on day trips with the family. The National Monument of Scotland is one of Edinburgh’s key landmarks and is very popular with tourists as well as the locals.
The monument represents a memorial to all Scottish soldiers and sailors who died during the wars. It is a beautiful monument, which makes a great picture contrasting with the sky and scenic countryside around.
www.edinburgh.org/things-to-do/activities/castles-and-monuments
4. The Fourth Road Bridge
The Fourth Road Bridge is a suspension bridge in the east central Scotland, creating great transport links with Fife to the North of Scotland. You can either walk or cycle along the bridge, where you can experience the breath-taking views of Edinburgh, being able to see both historic towns of North and South of Queensferry.
It’s a great iconic bridge to see in Edinburgh, perfect for pictures!
5. Royal Mile
After a visit to Edinburgh’s Castle, why not take a break and go shopping or find a place to eat along the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile runs between the heat of Edinburgh’s old town, connecting to Edinburgh Castle.
There are many quirky shops that sell clothing and accessories, either hand made or high street retailers. Also if you are looking for somewhere to eat, there are many places that offer inside and outside dining – perfect for the summer months!
Address
Royal Mile
Edinburgh
EH1 2PB
Scotland
Contact details
0131 510 75 55
www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages
Top kid’s activities
Spend a day out with the kids exploring Edinburgh - There's so much to do including sightseeing, Camera Obscurer World of Illusions, Edinburgh Dungeons and much more!
1. Camera Obscurer World of Illusions
Take your kids out for an interactive and exciting day at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. It’s an educational and fascinating way to see more of Edinburgh and they will learn all about Edinburgh’s history. There is a must see Rooftop view at Camera Obscura, where you will be able to use high power telescopes and binoculars.
There is plenty to do and see at Camera Obscura such as tunnels, the Magic Gallery and Puzzle Zones – Your kids can even morph into their favourite animal!
Camera Obscura is perfect for young children to teenagers. Young children 4-8, Older children 9-12 and teenagers 13-18. It would make the perfect day trip in the holidays.
July to August
Monday to Sunday: 9am – 9pm
September to October
Monday to Sunday: 9.30am – 7pm
November – March
Monday to Sunday: 10am – 6pm
April – June
Monday to Sunday: 9.30am – 7pm
Prices
Adult: £15.00
Student: £13.00
Child 5-15: £11.00
Under 5: Free
Address
Castlehill
549 Royal Mile
Edinburgh
Edinburgh and Lothian
EH1 2ND
Scotland
Contact details
01312 263709
www.camera-obscura.co.uk
2. The Edinburgh Dungeon
Experience Scotland’s horrible history in the dungeons. At The Edinburgh Dungeon you see 80 minutes of theatre, which is fun and terrifying at the same time!
At the Dungeon, you’ll meet various characters like the scary witch, Agnes Finnie, the murderous duo, Burke and Hare and Sawney Bean. You’ll be thoroughly entertained whilst visiting Edinburgh’s Dungeon, with special effects, shows and all types of action! You can explore the labyrinthine mirror maze, by taking out a boat ride.
The Dungeon isn’t appropriate for young children, as they might find it a little scary!
Opening times
Open 364 days a year. Opening hours are subject to frequent change. Visit website for more information
Pricing
Adults 16+: £17.95
Kids 4-15: £13.95
Address
31 Market Street
Edinburgh
Edinburgh and Lothian
EH1 1DF
Scotland
Contact details
0131 2401001
www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh
3. The Royal Yacht Britania
Your kids will love boarding her Majesty's ship, where they will take a trip to The Royal Yacht Britannia. They will discover lots of history, as the ship is home to The Queen and the Royal Family, which now is one of the UK’s top tourist attractions.
World leaders have walked on this ship, including Winston Churchill, Rajiv Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. It’s a great tour to keep children entertained, giving them a chance to explore the State Apartments, Crew’s Quarters and The Engine Room. There is also an exhibition where you will learn about the Royal Racing Yacht and don’t miss out on seeing the amazing 11 foot LEGO model of the Britannia!
Don’t forget there is a Tea Room on the Royal Deck, where you can experience some sample fudge made on board from the NAFFI sweet shop.
The Royal Yacht Britania is suitable for all ages including babies and toddlers 0-3, young children 4-8 and older children 9-12
Opening times
Monday to Sunday: 10am – 3.30pm
Closed 25th December and 1st January 2017.
Prices
Adults: £15.00
Kids: £8.50
Under 5’s: Free
Family: £43.50
Address
Ocean Terminal
Leith
Edinburgh
Edinburgh and Lothian
EH6 6JJ
Scotland
Contact details
01315 555566
www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk
4. Edinburgh Zoo
Love animals? Why not take the kids to Edinburgh Zoo, where they can experience exciting wildlife in Scotland. You can meet over 1,000 amazing animals at Edinburgh Zoo within the outskirts of Edinburgh.
There is so much to do at the zoo, with a wide range of experiences. From safari rides to animal feedings. Also at the zoo, there are numerous play areas, restaurants, and picnic areas – Don’t forget to visit the gift shop!
Opening times
April – September: 9am – 6pm
October – March: 9am – 5pm
November – February: 9 – 4.30pm
Prices
Visit website for seasonal prices and information
Address
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
134 Corstorphine Road
Edinburgh
Edinburgh and Lothian
Scotland
Contact details
0131 3349171
www.edinburghzoo.org.uk
5. Edinburgh City Sightseeing Tours Hop on Hop off
Discover Edinburgh on a double decker city sightseeing tour! Be amazed by the Georgian New Town and the Old Town. You can even hop off the bus and discover the famous Royal Mile, where you will find the 17th century Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Why not stop off at Edinburgh Castle, where you can see the oldest crown jewels! If you visit in winter, you can enjoy the Christmas markets in Edinburgh and see it all lit up beautifully. There are also fairground rides and food from all over the world.
There is so much to see in Edinburgh, so be sure to bring all of the family!
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday First Tour: 9.15am Last Tour: 7.15pm (July/August)
6pm (Spring/Autumn) 4pm (Winter)
Prices
Adults: £15.00 Seniors/Student: £14.00 Kids: (5-15): £7.50 Family: £36
Address
Waverley Bridge
Edinburgh
Edinburgh and Lothian
EH1 1BQ
Contact details
0131 220 0770
www.edinburghtour.com/tours/edinburgh-tour
Top 5 restaurants in Edinburgh
After a long day exploring Edinburgh city, sit back and relax at one of these delicious restaurants.
1. The Table
www.thetableedinburgh.com
3A Dundas Street
Edinburgh
EH3 6QG
Scotland
2. Aizle
www.aizle.co.uk
107-109 St. Leonards Street
Edinburgh
EH8 9QY
3. Forage and Chatter
www.forageandchatter.com
1A Alva Street
Edinburgh
EH2 4PH
Scotland
4. Purslane Restaurant
www.purslanerestaurant.co.uk
33A St. Stephen Street
Edinburgh
EH3 5AH
Scotland
5. Locanda De Gusti
www.locandadegusti.com
102 Dalry Road
Edinburgh
EH11 2DW