If you’re planning a fun-filled, family vacation to Edinburgh, then you’re in luck because there are a ton of fantastic kids activities in Edinburgh that your whole family will love. See, for our family vacation this year my husband and I each chose a bucket list spot and divided our time equally at each place. For me, it was Paris, and I fell in love with the city of love. I’ll be honest, Scotland was not my first choice. But sometimes, it’s good to be proven wrong. In fact, I was completely blown away. From the hospitality to the breathtaking landscapes, to the beauty in every street corner, close, and village. Even now, a few weeks later, I am still missing Scotland as if I were yearning for home. Not only are there a ton of fun things to do in Edinburgh, but it’s a beautiful, family-friendly city that really is full of magic. Read on to read the top fun activities and things to do in Edinburgh with kids!
(We received complimentary passes to Edinburgh Castle, Rosslyn Chapel, and the William Wallace Monument from Visit Scotland in exchange for an honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. For more information please read our Disclosure Policy.)
Why Visit Edinburgh with Kids?
Often, I’m asked why we travel with the kids and Edinburgh was no different. We travel frequently with our children for many reasons and encourage other families to do so! However, when it comes to Edinburgh, I think this quote from Robert Louis Stevenson sums it up the best.
The famous Scottish author once said, “And yet the place establishes an interest in people’s hearts; go where they will, they find no city of the same distinction.”
Scotland is inherently beautiful, untouched, and dream-like. Within this magical country, Edinburgh is an escape all it’s own.
1. Edinburgh Castle
Definitely one of the top places to visit in Edinburgh, you really cannot visit this amazing city without exploring Edinburgh Castle. Home to the Royal Military Tattoo, this beautiful fortress sits at the top of the Royal Mile and looms over the city.
Exploring Edinburgh Castle is one of the many great kids activities in Edinburgh and is an amazing experience itself. Not only are you exposing them to rich history and the home of several of Scotland’s kings and queens, but there are also tons of things to do within the castle walls.
Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in potentially long lines at the entrance.
Edinburgh Castle’s younger guests can be entertained by watching a live cannon fire, exploring the dog cemetery, walking through the Great Hall, and seeing the crown jewels of Scotland in the Crown Room.
My preschooler’s absolute highlight of Edinburgh Castle was walking through the dungeons. There are videos, artifacts, and cells set up just as they were hundreds of years ago.
Tip: If traveling to Ednburgh with a baby or toddler, keep in mind that while most of the castle is stroller friendly, there are rooms, staircases, and places where the stroller would be impossible to fit.
Edinburgh Castle also provides kids with a children’s quiz upon request. Little adventurers can set out on a mission throughout the castle grounds, track down clues, and may even have a chance of winning a prize.
There are two cafes on site, as well as gift shops, and a whiskey tasting distillery. My husband may or may not have ducked in there while the kids and I ventured into the Royal Military Tattoo Museum.
If you’re looking for things to do in Edinburgh with kids, Edinburgh Castle is a priority!
For more information about Edinburgh Castle with kids, including visiting hours, ticket prices and booking, and even a family friendly itinerary, check out their website here.
You can also check out a sneak peek of the Great Hall in Edinburgh Castle here:
2. The Kelpies
I love horses, so I knew before our trip to Scotland that visiting the Kelpies was an absolute must. Completed in 2013, the Helix Kelpies are 30-meter-high horse head sculptures and an amazing outdoor modern art venture.
Located about 19 miles outside of Edinburgh in Falkirk, the Kelpies sit inside of Helix Park, which makes it one of the amazing things to do in Edinburgh with kids.
Tip: If your trip to Edinburgh includes renting a car, you can take the M9 and exit at Junction 5 towards Stirling. However, there is also a 25-minute train ride from Edinburgh to Falkirk with stops 2 – 3 miles away.
Not only is there a large park, meadows, boat houses sitting on a canal, and impressive playground, but the Kelpies also has an indoor children’s area.
Coloring pages, videos on the history of Falkirk and the Kelpies, legos, and model statues inside a shop with small café kept both my preschooler and toddler entertained for quite a while.
Tip: The Kelpies are definitely stroller friendly but also have lots of areas to let your baby or toddler run around and stretch their legs as well.
Visiting the Kelpies at night is also a sight to behold. The horses light up at sundown, changing colors in a stunning and impressive show. You can also see them driving from the highway if driving by Falkirk.
For more information on the Kelpies, including visiting information and events, check out their website here.
3. Harry Potter Walking Tour
Even if you’re not a complete Potterhead (guilty right here!), this list of fun things to do in Edinburgh would not be complete without a Harry Potter walking tour.
There are several guided options, many of which run on the generosity of tips. However, you can take your own tour. When planning kids activities in Edinburgh, I suggest this option as you can start and stop your own tour at your leisure.
Luckily, the major Harry Potter tour spots are within very close distance to one another.
It’s best to start where it all began. The Elephant House Cafe, on Marshall Street, is the infamous location where J.K. Rowling started writing the series on a paper napkin.
Adjacent to the Harry Potter cafe is Greyfriars Kirkyard cemetery. The graveyard, reported to be one of the most haunted in the world, is also rumored to be inspiration for Godric’s Hollow.
There are also a few tombstones bearing character names, including inspiration for Tom Riddle, Professor McGonagall, and Mad Eye Moody.
Just steps away from Greyfriars Kirkyard is the real-life Diagon Alley. Lined with shops, restaurants, and pubs, Victoria Street and Candlemaker Row also play host to two Harry Potter stores. One of these just opened it’s doors in Spring of 2018.
A Harry Potter walking tour is a fun and easy walk, even when coming to Edinburgh with a toddler or baby.
If you’d prefer to do Edinburgh’s Harry Potter tour with a group, check out The Potter Trail for more information here.
4. William Wallace Monument
While technically located outside of Edinburgh, the William Wallace Monument in Stirling is an amazing site that can’t be missed when figuring out what to see in Edinburgh.
Built in a stunning location overlooking Stirling, the William Wallace Memorial offers sweeping views of what is often referred to as the Gateway to the Highlands.
Fans of the movie Braveheart and Scotland’s hero William Wallace, my husband included, can come and pay tribute to the legend in the most beautiful way.
The monument itself stands tall at 67 meters high and brave visitors can climb the most treacherous spiral staircase to reach the top.
“Who would bring kids here?” This came from an older woman, who passed us, toddler and preschooler in tow, up the 246 steps to get to the top.
My question is, who wouldn’t? Although the staircase is narrow, there are several stops along the way. Each one offers guests a real glimpse into the life of William Wallace, the history of the monument, and Scotland’s heroes and heroines.
Tip: Strollers definitely not allowed to ascend the tower, as these stairs are no joke! However, if you are unable to use the staircase or need assistance, there are facilities available in the Keeper’s Lodge.
There are lots of activities along the way, if you’re looking for some nice, family days out in Edinburgh. Giant floor puzzles, photo ops, and games offer the youngest travelers a break from the climb and a fun way to learn about Scottish history.
This was at the top of my husband’s bucket list, and he lit up like a kid on Christmas when he got to see the William Wallace sword.
So where is the William Wallace Monument? Edinburgh to Stirling Castle is about an hour’s drive, depending on the traffic. The William Wallace Memorial, Old Stirling Bridge, and Stirling Castle are all within ten minutes of one another.
Planning to head into the Highlands? Be sure to check out Exploring Scotland: Things to do in the Isle of the Skye for tips!
Stirling
The William Wallace Monument of Scotland is just minutes away from other must-do activities in Stirling.
On your way to Stirling Castle, take a few minutes to stop by the Old Stirling Bridge. It is located on the way from the William Wallace Monument to Stirling Castle.
Old Stirling Bridge is the location of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, an important victory in the fight for Scotland’s freedom.
It is also a beautiful and picturesque spot for anyone to enjoy. Quite appropriately, Old Stirling Bridge offers views of the William Wallace Monument just beyond the river.
A few short miles from the Old Stirling Bridge is Stirling Castle. The history here is absolutely amazing and the views are breathtaking.
Tip: If you’re planning to see the Helix Kelpies in Falkirk, adding Stirling to the route is advised. Stirling is about a 20-minute drive by car from Falkirk, and all of these activities can be done in a day.
We were so enthralled with the William Wallace Monument, that we ended up spending most of our time here. Even the walk up to the memorial itself is gorgeous, with history, statues, and carvings throughout the wooded trails.
If you’re interested in learning more about the William Wallace Monument, you can find it on their website here.
5. Edinburgh Ghost Tour
Edinburgh has one of the oldest and darkest histories in the world. What list of things for kids to do in Edinburgh would be complete without a ghost tour?
Since we were in Edinburgh with kids, I searched for child friendly ghost tours in Edinburgh. (I’m not that cruel!) Luckily, I found an Edinburgh ghost tour with great reviews that was still fun and spooky, but not scary, for our little ones.
Set aboard a haunted 1960’s double decker bus, the Ghost Bus Tour gives a full history tour of Edinburgh and its creepy past.
While we may have been the only family with young kids on this ghost bus tour, my children both had a blast and thought this was one of the best kids activities in Edinburgh.
The Edinburgh Ghost Bus tour was a great option because it didn’t involve a whole lot of walking. My toddler was probably as excited to be on a bus and driving around the city as much as I was not to have to push his stroller!
Tip: If you are traveling to Edinburgh with kids and brought your stroller along, the tour bus will fold it up and store it for you during the ghost tour.
A short stop is made on the tour at Greyfriars Kirkyard. Here, guests are given the option to disembark or stay aboard.
We chose to get off and explore the graveyard for a second time, this time with a knowledgeable tour guide.
If you’re looking for a fun and spooky way to learn about Edinburgh’s grisly and seedy past, as well as enjoy the views of the city, the ghost bus tour is the way to go and easily one of the best things to do with children in Edinburgh.
To book a tour, find a map of pickup locations, or learn about their hours, check out the Ghost Tours of Edinburgh.
6. Rosslyn Chapel
Rosslyn Chapel is a hidden gem near Edinburgh and one of the absolute highlights of our trip. Located in the village of Roslin, just outside of the Chapel is full of history, mystery, and beauty.
If you’re a fan of Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, then you may recognize the beautiful chapel from a few scenes in the movie.
Rosslyn Chapel dates back to the 15th century and legend has it that it is or was the site of the location of the Holy Grail.
Adventurers and historians are not the only ones who would love this unique heritage site, however. There is plenty to offer in and around the chapel for kids and families looking for days out in Edinburgh.
If you haven’t seen it already, I’ve written extensively on the chapel before. For everything you need to know about Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland, click here.
7. The Royal Mile
Of course, no list of fun, kids activities in Edinburgh would be complete without walking down the Royal Mile.
Located between two other must-see places in Old Town, Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is lined with activities, shops and pubs, restaurants, and things to do in Edinburgh for families.
While it is a bit touristy, we are well, tourists. Some of the highlights for kids include Edinburgh’s Camera Obscura, walking through the closes of Edinburgh, and the Museum of Childhood.
Parents, if you’re able to take turns or get a quick break, the Scottish Whiskey Experience is also a priority when walking down the Royal Mile.
Be sure to check out Delighting in the Scotch Whiskey Experience in Edinburgh for everything you need to know about the tour!
Really though, if you went to Scotland and didn’t try the whiskey, then did you even really go?
Scottish bagpipers, kilts and cashmere galore, and all kinds of street magicians and vendors make the Royal Mile a fun excursion full of family things to do in Edinburgh.
Here’s a small glimpse of what you can expect walking down the Royal Mile:
Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens is not on the Royal Mile. However, it is just a short walk away and worth the exercise.
The public park sits in the center of Edinburgh and has some amazing views of the city and castle. Historically, it used to be a loch until it was drained in the late 1700’s.
Today it is host to locals and tourists and some major events throughout the year. Princes Street Gardens made the list because it’s a great place to rest, relax, and let the kids run free for some time.
Just adjacent to the park is where you’ll find the Sir Walter Scott Memorial. (Seriously, you can’t miss it!)
The second-tallest memorial in the world dedicated to a writer, this Victorian Gothic monument also serves as a not-so-subtle nod to Edinburgh’s literary history.
Personally, my kids weren’t all that interested in the history there. They may appreciate it someday. Instead, the joy of running around one of the most beautiful places in the world caught up with them.
There you have it. Seven magical kids activities in Edinburgh. When reflecting on our trip, Scottish poet Alan Bold described it best. He stated, “There’s no leaving Edinburgh, no shifting it around: it stays with you, always.”
There were so many more things to add to this list of Edinburgh family attractions. Why not go out and explore it for yourself?
Have you been yet? What were your favorite kids activities in Edinburgh? Let us know in the comments below!
emma says
It looks like you all had a lot of fun! I had no idea Edinburgh has a Harry Potter walking tour 🙂
Christina says
Thanks, we had a blast! It does have a lot of Harry Potter history and inspiration. It is where J.K. Rowling started it all and being there in person, it was easy to see how she was inspired by the magic and the history of the city.
Abbi @ Pomsly says
These places look like something out of a fairytale! Going to Europe has always been on my bucket list and now definitely am making Scotland a stop!
Christina says
I’m so happy to hear that, you seriously won’t be disappointed! Everywhere we went was like a fairytale come to life!
Grace says
Wow the Edinburgh castle is so beautiful! I’d love to go visit there one day!
Christina says
That’s awesome to hear and Edinburgh Castle is so stunning! Even outside of the castle walls, the way it is high above the city is just absolutely gorgeous.
Becca Wilson says
This looks like such an amazing place. I love all of the old structures and my kids would really love to see castle like structures. They are so fascinated by them.
Christina says
It really is an amazing and special place. My kids were the same way, so excited to see a real castle and learn about kings and queens, you know, outside of the only other castle they had seen before, Cinderella’s castle at Disney World. lol
Stacy | Stacy’s Savings says
Edinburgh is such a special place. Your post brought back a lot of memories!
~ Stacy | https://www.stacyssavings.com
Christina says
That’s so sweet, thank you! I really have not seen another place like it. We are looking forward to moving there someday. <3
nmgilb says
I’m a huge potter head, so it would be so exciting to visit all of these spots. Thank you for also including what locations are stroller friendly!
Christina says
Thank you! I know for us, we are forever lugging a stroller around so it’s helpful to know where it can be used and when you should just leave it at home. The Harry Potter tour was amazing, I actually teared up in the bathroom of The Elephant House Cafe (of all places…), but the walls are covered in graffiti from fans writing about how much the series helped them through some tough times.
TheStyleWright says
wow what a gorgeous place to visit! Totally putting this on my bucketlist now.
Kasey
TheStyleWright.com
Christina says
Love it! I promise you will not be disappointed! 🙂
Taylor Reese says
Dying to go to Scotland. It’s so beautiful!
xo
Taylor
http://www.reeseshardwear.com
Christina says
It really is stunning. My husband and I kept commenting how even driving through back roads and smaller villages, there was no place that we found that was not completely beautiful!
Marissa A says
Not going to lie, my recent trip to Edinburgh involved a lot of whiskey and gin tasting. Yours looks more fun!
Christina says
Haha I think the next time we are there without kids ours will look very similar! 😀
sarahleelst says
Love Edinburgh and am so looking forward to going back this year for the Edinburgh Fringe – I hear it’s great for kids too (I thought it was just for us big kids until recently). The Kelpies are magnificent – drove past them once, but sadly didn’t have time to stop – one day!
Christina says
So I hadn’t heard of the Fringe Festival until I read your comment so I looked it up and oh my goodness, I am obsessed! It looks like so much fun! And it’s taking place at the same time as the Tattoo! It looks like you’re going to have a blast! We need to go back to the Kelpies too, we missed seeing them light up at night and it looks spectacular!
theRands says
Oooh, this looks like so much fun! I know my kids would have a blast at Helix Park and Edinborough Castle! Prince Street Gardens looks beautiful.
Christina says
Absolutely! They are both really kid-friendly! Helix Park also has an amazing playground nearby, and Falkirk is also home to a huge water wheel. It is the world’s only rotating boatlift and is also an awesome sight to see!
Julie Boyd says
I love that you guys both choose a bucket list trip! Scotland is so beautiful. I would love to go back someday soon, especially for all the Harry Potter sights. Lol.
Christina says
Thanks! It was the first time we’ve ever tried it that way and it worked out perfectly! I just never imagined I would end up loving my husband’s pick so much more! I need to go back too, there is also the Harry Potter train that we didn’t get a chance to ride this time around. 🙂
Margarita says
Castles, Harry Potter and the Kelpies! What a fun city! I’ll be copying your itinerary when I finally get to Scotland!
Christina says
That’s awesome to hear! It really is so much fun, and we didn’t even get to see any of the festivals!
Diana tidswell says
Wow! What an amazing place you’ve visited. Loved the architecture and vintage look of the place. Thank you for sharing this for us.
Christina says
Thank you! The old city of Edinburgh really is like stepping back in time. I’ve never seen another place quite like it!
Annemarie LeBlanc says
Reading your post and looking at the photos made me envy my cousin. He has been living in Edinburgh for the past 15 years and he has access to these beautiful places 365 days a year! OMG. the William Wallace monument is awesome. I would not mind climbing all those steps to get to the top. The view is fantastic!
Christina says
I am envious of your cousin too! Scotland is breathtaking, it’s no wonder he’s lived there for so long. We are hoping to move there one day as well! The steps were well worth the climb, absolutely stunning views all around!
Sue-Tanya McHorgh says
I think the Harry Tour and the THE KELPIES would be my favourite places to visit. Thanks for sharing this list.
Christina says
Both were awesome! There is also the Harry Potter train (you see it in shots from the movies) that we didn’t make it to but would be really cool if you make it to Scotland!
Luci Cook says
Those look like really great choices. I haven’t been to Edinburgh but it is on my wish list of places that I need to visit.
Christina says
Yes, it really is a place unlike any other! When you plan your trip, also look up if there are any festivals going on as Edinburgh has lots of them and they’re all pretty amazing!
Kathi Kamleitner says
Great suggestions! I also think the Camera Obscura museum for optical illusions, the National Museum of Scotland and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh are great activities for kids!
Christina says
Great ideas! We didn’t make it to the National Museum of Scotland but it looks awesome for kids and I hadn’t even heard of the Royal Botanic Garden, but now I’m going to have to look that up! Thanks for sharing!
marciemcheung says
So, I didn’t know much about Scotland before this post but now I’m thinking we need to go asap with our little kids! I mean, the Kelpies seem so interesting!
Christina says
That’s awesome, I’m sure they would love it as much as mine did! The Kelpies were amazing, we want to go back and see them again especially at night when they are all lit up!
Michelle says
What a great post! It looks like you all had so much fun. My husband and I just returned from Edinburgh also. We thoroughly enjoyed the Scotch Whisky Experience and loved visiting Edinburgh Castle. Honestly, Edinburgh was just a great city to walk around and hang out in. We loved it!
Christina says
We definitely need to try the Scotch Whiskey Experience next time we are there! I totally agree with you though, the vibes of the city are so great just to hang out, walk around, and take in all the experiences!
Ali Dunnell says
Great post full of tips and information about this wonderful city. If you haven’t visited before during the fringe festival you must go – it is absolutely amazing, the streets become full with street entertainers and there is something to do every hour of the day – and loads for children too
Christina says
Thank you so much! I just found out about the Fringe Festival a few days ago and I cannot believe I hadn’t heard of it before! It looks like an absolute blast! I’m not sure we’ll make it this year, but we definitely want to plan for it next year! It’s during the Military Tattoo too, so plans to hit them both up!
Keating Bartlett says
Gorgeous photos!! It looks like you had so much fun! I’d kill for a trip like this. My husband’s military so we have yet to find the time to actually travel. He gets out later this year and I have my fingers crossed that we can start traveling with our little one 🙂
Christina says
Thank you so much! My husband is AD military too and I know the feeling, but after 8 years of him being in, we’ve worked it down to a system now with saving up his leave and we try to travel wherever we are stationed as much as possible too! You’re right though, when he is out you guys will have a lot more time and freedom! 🙂