Free days out in Edinburgh

Free family activities in Edinburgh - museums, parks, public gardens and city walks that cost nothing to visit.

29 activities

Arthur's Seat Hike
Free

Arthur's Seat Hike

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.

6–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Blackford Hill and Pond
Free

Blackford Hill and Pond

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.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Braid Hills
Free

Braid Hills

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.

3–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Burdiehouse Burn Valley Park
Free

Burdiehouse Burn Valley Park

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.

3–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Corstorphine Hill
Free

Corstorphine Hill

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.

3–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Cramond Beach and Island
Free

Cramond Beach and Island

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.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Dovecot Studios
Free

Dovecot Studios

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.

6–1011–16
Setting
Indoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Dr Neil's Garden
Free

Dr Neil's Garden

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.

0–23–56–10
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Edinburgh Larder Farmers Market
Free

Edinburgh Larder Farmers Market

Laverock Bank Market Garden · Edinburgh

This Saturday market at Stockbridge showcases Scottish producers with fantastic fresh produce, baked goods, and street food. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming. Kids enjoy sampling treats and watching food being prepared.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Gorgie City Farm
Free

Gorgie City Farm

Gorgie City Farm · Edinburgh

A free community farm in the heart of the city where children can meet goats, pigs, rabbits, and chickens up close. A wonderfully relaxed and unhurried experience for little ones.

0–23–56–10
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Granton Harbour and Beach
Free

Granton Harbour and Beach

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

This working harbour area offers beach access, coastal walks, and views across the Firth of Forth. The newly developed areas include paths and green spaces. It's quieter than Portobello but with similar seaside appeal.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Hermitage of Braid
Free

Hermitage of Braid

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

This woodland valley features a beautiful stream, walking trails, and the Hermitage House visitor centre. The Braid Burn gurgles through the gorge, and there's wildlife to spot. It's a peaceful nature escape within the city.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Inverleith Park
Free

Inverleith Park

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

A large public park adjacent to the Botanic Gardens with wide open spaces perfect for games and picnics. The excellent play park has equipment for all ages. Sports facilities and a pond add to the appeal.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Leith Waterfront Walk
Free

Leith Waterfront Walk

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

A flat, buggy-friendly walk along the Water of Leith to the Shore at Leith, finishing with waterside cafes and the chance to spot seals in the docks.

0–23–56–10
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Museum of Childhood
Free

Museum of Childhood

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

A charming free museum on the Royal Mile dedicated entirely to the history of childhood — packed with vintage toys, games, and school memorabilia that delights adults as much as kids.

3–56–10
Setting
Indoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Museum on the Mound
Free

Museum on the Mound

Bank of Scotland · Edinburgh

This free museum tells the story of money, banking, and Scotland's economic history through interactive displays. Kids can hold a real gold bar and try cracking a safe. It's compact and engaging for a short visit.

6–1011–16
Setting
Indoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
National Museum of Scotland
Free

National Museum of Scotland

National Museums Scotland · Edinburgh

A magnificent free museum covering Scottish history, science, and culture across seven floors. The rooftop terrace has stunning views and the Grand Gallery wows on arrival.

3–56–1011–16
Setting
Indoor
Duration
Half day
Newhaven Heritage Museum
Free

Newhaven Heritage Museum

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

This charming museum tells the story of Newhaven's fishing community through displays and artifacts. Recently renovated, it brings local history to life. The nearby harbour and fish market area add to the experience.

6–1011–16
Setting
Indoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Pollock Halls Maze and Grounds
Free

Pollock Halls Maze and Grounds

University of Edinburgh · Edinburgh

The grounds around Pollock Halls offer open green space, duck ponds, and easy walking paths — a lovely free spot for a family stroll close to the city centre.

0–23–56–10
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Portobello Beach
Free

Portobello Beach

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

Edinburgh's sandy seaside suburb with a long promenade, amusements, and beach play just 30 minutes from the city centre. A brilliant free half day for families on a sunny day.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Free

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh · Edinburgh

These stunning gardens spread across 70 acres offer glasshouses, woodland trails, and sprawling lawns perfect for running around. Kids love the squirrels, the Chinese Hillside, and the Victorian Palm Houses. It's a peaceful green escape just minutes from the city centre.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Indoor & outdoor
Duration
Half day
Scottish National Gallery
Free

Scottish National Gallery

National Galleries of Scotland · Edinburgh

World-class art in a beautiful neoclassical building on the Mound, free for all. Family trails and creative activities run regularly to keep younger visitors engaged.

6–1011–16
Setting
Indoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Free

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

National Galleries of Scotland · Edinburgh

Two beautiful buildings set in landscaped grounds featuring contemporary and modern art. The outdoor sculptures and the landform artwork by Charles Jencks are especially fun for children to explore. Free family activities run regularly.

3–56–1011–16
Setting
Indoor & outdoor
Duration
Half day
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Free

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

National Galleries of Scotland · Edinburgh

This stunning red sandstone building houses portraits of famous Scots throughout history. Family-friendly trails and activities help kids engage with art and storytelling. The grand entrance hall alone is worth the visit.

6–1011–16
Setting
Indoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Stockbridge Market
Free

Stockbridge Market

Stockbridge Community · Edinburgh

This Sunday market brings together local food producers, crafts, and street food in the charming Stockbridge neighborhood. Kids enjoy the atmosphere and treats while parents browse quality local goods. It's a real community gathering.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
The Meadows
Free

The Meadows

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

This large public park is beloved by Edinburgh families for its open spaces, tree-lined paths, and excellent play areas. Perfect for picnics, games, and play. The tennis courts and sports facilities add to the appeal.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day
The People's Story Museum
Free

The People's Story Museum

City of Edinburgh Council · Edinburgh

Located in the historic Canongate Tolbooth on the Royal Mile, this museum tells the stories of ordinary Edinburgh people from the 18th century to today. Recreated rooms and displays bring social history to life.

6–1011–16
Setting
Indoor
Duration
Under 1 hr
Vogrie Country Park
Free

Vogrie Country Park

Midlothian Council · Edinburgh

Just outside Edinburgh, this country park offers woodland walks, a play area, and adventure activities. The miniature railway runs on Sundays in summer. Beautiful grounds around a historic mansion make it perfect for a day out.

0–23–56–1011–16
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Full day
Water of Leith Walkway
Free

Water of Leith Walkway

Water of Leith Conservation Trust · Edinburgh

A peaceful riverside walk winding through Edinburgh from the Pentland Hills to Leith. Easy underfoot and full of wildlife — great for pushchairs and young walkers alike.

0–23–56–10
Setting
Outdoor
Duration
Half day