Edinburgh squeezes castles, hills and one of the UK's best zoos into a walkable city. Days out here mix the outdoors with weather-proof favourites like Camera Obscura and the National Museum of Scotland.
Alien Rock · Edinburgh
This indoor climbing centre offers routes for complete beginners to advanced climbers. Kids' sessions and family climbing times make it accessible. The bouldering areas don't require experience and are great fun.
Historic Environment Scotland · Edinburgh
The iconic extinct volcano in Holyrood Park offers a manageable hike for older children with spectacular 360-degree views of the city as a reward at the top.
City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh
A local favourite for families, this hill offers easier climbing than Arthur's Seat with rewarding views across Edinburgh. The pond at the base is perfect for spotting ducks and swans. Wide paths make it accessible for most abilities.
City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh
These twin hills offer easier walks than Arthur's Seat with equally impressive views. The area combines open moorland with golf courses. It's a local secret with paths suitable for various abilities.
City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh
This hidden gem follows a burn through woodland with good paths and a sense of wilderness within the city. The nature trail offers wildlife spotting opportunities. It's peaceful and perfect for a nature walk.
Camera Obscura · Edinburgh
Five floors of mind-bending optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and a rooftop camera obscura with panoramic views. Hugely popular with children who love being baffled.
City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh
A wooded hill with well-marked trails offering fantastic city views and a peaceful forest atmosphere. The Clermiston Tower at the summit is a favourite landmark. It's less touristy than other Edinburgh hills and perfect for a woodland adventure.
Historic Environment Scotland · Edinburgh
This well-preserved medieval castle offers towers to climb, rooms to explore, and sweeping views. It's less crowded than Edinburgh Castle and kids love the freedom to roam. Mary Queen of Scots stayed here.
City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh
A wide sandy beach on the Firth of Forth with a causeway walk to Cramond Island at low tide. Excellent for rockpooling, picnics, and a proper outdoor adventure close to the city.
Dovecot Studios · Edinburgh
A working tapestry studio in a converted Edwardian swimming pool, with free gallery access and creative workshops for families. A wonderfully unexpected cultural gem in the city centre.
Dr Neil's Garden Trust · Edinburgh
This secret garden tucked beside Duddingston Loch offers peaceful paths, a wildlife pond, and beautiful seasonal planting. It's a quiet spot perfect for gentle exploration and nature discovery. The adjacent loch is great for birdwatching.
Dynamic Earth · Edinburgh
A spectacular interactive journey through the history of our planet from the Big Bang to the present day. The special effects and immersive domes make it genuinely thrilling for kids.