5 Amazing Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids

Edinburgh is one of my favorite cities for families — it's compact, walkable, safe, and absolutely packed with things to do. Whether you're there for a camp week or a family holiday, here are 5 places we loved.

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1. Craigmillar Castle

A medieval fortress just outside the city center where Mary, Queen of Scots once stayed. It's less crowded than Edinburgh Castle, significantly cheaper, and kids can actually explore — climb towers, wander through ruins, and imagine life in medieval Scotland. Bring a picnic.

2. Calton Hill

A short walk from the city center with panoramic views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and Arthur's Seat. The National Monument and Nelson Monument are both here. It's a manageable climb even for younger kids and the views are spectacular — especially at sunset.

3. National Museum of Scotland

One of the best free museums in the UK. Covers Scottish history, natural wonders, art, design, and technology across multiple floors. The interactive galleries are genuinely engaging for kids (not just a token children's corner). You could easily spend half a day here.

4. Blackford Hill Nature Reserve

A peaceful nature reserve with walking trails, city views, and the Royal Observatory. The paths are manageable for kids and it's a great place to escape the tourist crowds. Pack snacks and binoculars.

5. Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II, now a museum docked in Leith. The audio tour is surprisingly engaging for kids (there's a dedicated children's version). Seeing where the royal family actually lived, ate, and slept is fascinating. Book tickets online in advance.

Combining Edinburgh Activities with Camp

If your kids are in camp during the day, these activities work perfectly for evenings and weekends. Edinburgh's compact size means you can walk or bus to most attractions in 20 minutes. And if you have a free day between camp sessions, you have more than enough here to fill it.

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In my weekly newsletter, I share family travel tips for Edinburgh and other camp cities, including restaurant recommendations, transit guides, and housing tips. If you're planning an Edinburgh trip around camp in 2026, the newsletter has the details.