The Top 10 Things To Do With Kids In Edinburgh

Head towards Arthur’s Seat to find Dynamic Earth, a mysterious spaceship-esque building filled to the brim with the most fascinating things. Via the multiple interactive exhibits, impressive technology, and a 4D experience, the little ones will discover one of the most captivating stories out there — the tale of planet earth. Dynamic Earth also hosts the only 360-degree full dome film theatre in Scotland. Prepare to be transported back in time and blown away.

The very first museum in the world to place all focus on the history of children, the Museum of Childhood on the Royal Mile is a must-visit spot with the kids. Tour the collections of children’s toys from throughout the ages while taking a wander down memory lane. The whole family can see how playthings have evolved, but be prepared to feel bemused at the lack of technology! The dress up area is a must-see and the puppet theatre can keep kids entertained for days.

Kids and adults will no doubt have oodles of fun at Doodles, Edinburgh’s first ‘do it yourself’ informal ceramic workshop. A wildly therapeutic activity, let those creative juices flow and delight in creating your very own artistic masterpiece. You can choose what to make from an exciting selection of unglazed pottery items, from mugs and plates, to bowls, and eggcups. From there, let the brushes do the talking. With over 80 under-glaze colours on hand, half the fun is deciding on that perfect shade. Let’s be honest — this isn’t just for kids.

Crafts | © Umair Mohsin/Flickr

A true treasure of Edinburgh, The National Museum of Scotland is a gargantuan cabinet of curiosity waiting to be explored. With piles of riveting interactive exhibits and impressive collections, it’s safe to say that all kids will be in awe. The museum is not just for the heritage of Scotland but also for the world, so expect to absorb mountains of fun facts and figures. From the hypnotic Earth In Space Gallery to one of the greatest mammal collections out there, children of all ages will be teleported into a whole new universe.

Take a field trip away from the concrete jungle and venture into a land where animals roam free, train rides are plentiful, and go-karts whizz around like no tomorrow. East Links Family Park, situated just outside of Dunbar, is a short distance from Edinburgh and yet it feels like another planet. For kids and adults who like to run around, this is the place. There really is quite the list of activities: train safari and indoor animal barn, trampolines and jelly belly, crazy golf, hay barn and climbing walls, go-karts, outdoor farm animals, a ball blast arena, education barn, and giant fortress. It’s an escape to the countryside and you can consider this the perfect blend of structured education and wild fun.

The world we live in is comprised of a multitude of oral narratives all told by different cultures. Explore this cultural tradition and see the importance of preserving what is one of humankind’s oldest art forms. The Scottish Storytelling Centre is home to the Scottish International Storytelling Festival and hosts countless cultural programs throughout the year. Discover Scotland’s history through stories, delight in the interactive story wall, and absorb all the classic Scottish tales. Kids can also search for Greyfriars Bobby and meet Nessie, the Gruffalo, and Wee Willie Winkie. This treasure chest is also home to the most delectable baked goods, too.

Jenner’s is rightfully renowned for having a sublime toy department. Whether kid or adult, there’s no denying the excitement that enters the soul the moment you set foot in this magical place. From bucket loads of Lego and puzzles, to board games, video games, talking toys, action heroes, bikes, collectables, and more, a trip to this toy paradise will leave you feeling like Kevin in Home Alone when he steps into the New York toy store. Oh, and good luck trying to refrain from taking home every single teddy bear in there — each one is as adorable as the next.

Kids or no kids, those who are adamant to search for Nemo and Dory should look no further than Deep Sea World. A most magical place in North Queensferry in Fife, this underwater paradise contains the largest underwater tunnel in the UK. From sharks and piranhas, to starfish, seals, underwater safaris, and more, watch in awe as you witness the soothing rhythms of the fish and overwhelming majesty of nature’s most magnificent sea creatures. This giant aquarium features multiple themed zones while using Scottish seawater from the Firth Of Forth to provide the animals with their essential minerals. Immerse yourself in an alternate world overflowing with sea beings and dive deep into a truly unique educational aquatic experience.

Jump out all that excess energy and ascend towards the sky at Ryze. This trampoline paradise isn’t like the bouncy castle at the local sports center from back in the day — it’s the epitome of epic. Expect a myriad of trampolines and the most entertaining dodge ball game of all time. Whether gymnast or jumping newbie, kids of all ages will be on cloud nine following a visit to this bouncing palace. By Tori Chalmers