Family Things To Do In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and full of natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for families looking for a vibrant, cultural experience. With its impressive architecture, colourful culture, and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder why Edinburgh is one of the most visited cities in the UK. From its grand architecture to its vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or a romantic stroll through the city streets, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Edinburgh to keep the whole family entertained.

Introduction to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. It is home to an array of historic landmarks, such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat. The city is also known for its beautiful parks, such as Holyrood Park and Princes Street Gardens. With its cobbled streets, bustling markets and colourful festivals, Edinburgh has something to offer everyone.

The city is home to a population of almost 500,000 people. It has a long history of cultural and artistic endeavour, with many renowned writers and artists hailing from the city. The world-famous Edinburgh Festival takes place here each summer, bringing together some of the best performers from around the globe. It is also home to numerous museums and galleries, such as the National Museum of Scotland and National Gallery of Scotland, showcasing a wealth of cultures and histories.

Family Friendly Activities in Edinburgh

For those looking for things to do in Edinburgh with kids in tow, there are plenty of options. From outdoor activities to educational experiences, Edinburgh has something for every member of the family. Here are some of the top family friendly activities in Edinburgh:

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland and is a must-visit for any family visiting Edinburgh. The castle is perched atop an extinct volcano and provides breathtaking views of the city skyline. Inside the castle is an array of attractions, such as St Margaret’s Chapel, the Royal Palace, the Crown Jewels and more. There are also regular events taking place throughout the year, such as open-air concerts and daily gun salutes.

2. Explore Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is a dormant volcano located just outside of Edinburgh city centre. It is the highest point in Edinburgh and provides stunning views over the city skyline. It is a popular spot for families, as it is easily accessible and provides plenty of opportunities for exploration. There are numerous trails to explore, as well as picnic spots and viewpoints.

3. Take a Boat Trip Down the River Forth

For a unique experience with the family, take a boat trip down the River Forth. This tranquil river has been used as an important trade route for centuries and provides stunning views of some of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks. The boat trip takes around two hours and includes a tour guide to provide commentary on the sights you will see along the way.

4. Enjoy a Picnic in Holyrood Park

Holyrood Park is an area of natural beauty located just outside of Edinburgh city centre. It contains some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery, including lochs, hills and grassland areas. It also has numerous trails perfect for exploring with the family, as well as picnic spots where you can take a break and enjoy some tasty refreshments.

5. Visit Dynamic Earth

Dynamic Earth is an interactive science centre located in the heart of Edinburgh. It provides an immersive experience which brings science to life with interactive displays and hands-on activities. There are also several galleries which showcase some of the most iconic moments in Earth’s history, from dinosaurs to space exploration.

Tours in Edinburgh

For families looking for something a little more organised and informative, there are plenty of guided tours in Edinburgh that provide an insight into the city’s history and culture.

1. Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

The Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a great way to explore the city with ease. This tour takes visitors on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s most iconic streets and landmarks. Highlights include Princes Street Gardens, Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat and more! The tour also includes audio commentary from an experienced guide to give visitors an insight into the history and culture of each destination. Book this bus tour to experience this unique tour around the city.

2. Ghost Tour

Edinburgh has gained its reputation as being one of the most haunted cities in Europe for its spooky tales and eerie atmosphere at night. Take a Ghost Tour through some of Edinburgh’s darkest alleyways and hear tales of real-life hauntings from centuries gone by! This tour is not recommended for young children or those who scare easily!

3. Harry Potter Walking Tour

Explore some of Edinburgh’s most magical locations with this Harry Potter Walking Tour. This tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the locations that JK Rowling used as inspiration for some of her most iconic scenes from the Harry Potter series! Learn about how she used locations from around Edinburgh to create Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and Diagon Alley!

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a vibrant city packed with history, culture and natural beauty making it perfect for families looking for an unforgettable experience. From exploring historic landmarks to learning about Scotland’s past, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained throughout your stay in Edinburgh. If you’re looking for something a little more structured, there are plenty of tours to choose from which provide an insight into Edinburgh’s history, culture and folklore!