Our 2021 guide to family activities in Edinburgh

Due to Covid-19, some of these attractions may not be open. Please check with the relevant organisations before making travel plans.

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, and a city rich in history. Its Old Town dates back to medieval times, and even the ‘New Town’ is made up of buildings and gardens from the Georgian era.

It’s a wonderful place to simply explore, and there are so many family activities in Edinburgh and fun attractions for all ages to enjoy.

Take a look at what you need to see when you pay Edinburgh a visit with your family.

Edinburgh Castle

A weekend away in Edinburgh is not complete without a visit to the famous Edinburgh Castle.

The castle is hard to miss as it is strikingly positioned on top of an ancient volcanic precipice. The castle itself is beautiful and it’s also where you can see the most spectacular views of the city.

Get your kids a copy of the Explorer Quiz, available on the castle’s website or the audio tour counter. They will have great fun answering questions and learning fascinating facts about Edinburgh Castle. Make sure to book in advance to guarantee entry.

The Potter Trail

If your kids (or you!) are into Harry Potter, taking the Potter Trail free walking tour is a must.

J.K. Rowling wrote most of the Harry Potter books in Edinburgh, and this award-winning tour will take you to the place where she wrote the books, as well as spots that inspired specific scenes and locations in the novels.

The tour happens 4-5 days a week - just look up the time and meeting spot and turn up! You’ll be in for a magical ride and one of the most fun family activities Edinburgh has to offer.

Dynamic Earth

Dynamic Earth is an absolute must-see for your weekend break in Edinburgh.

Shaped like a spaceship, Dynamic Earth contains a wealth of interactive and immersive exhibits that take visitors on a journey through time from the Big Bang to the present day.

Experience simulated earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, see what life is like on the ocean floor and tropical rainforest, and witness the Aurora Borealis and the animals of the world in 4D.

It’s highly educational while still being an incredible experience - your kids will be wide-eyed with wonder afterwards.

The Big Escape Edinburgh

If you are looking for seriously fun family activities in Edinburgh, try the Big Escape. It’s a city-wide escape game played on your smartphone, in teams of up to 6 players, open to all ages.

You’ll race around Edinburgh cracking codes, solving puzzles and completing challenges without getting caught. Teams that rack up the most points that blow open the Casino safe and escape the city without the ‘cops’ catching them win.

Get your ticket and enjoy a totally unique and exciting experience that lets you explore a different side of Edinburgh! The Big Escape will run all the way until the end of the year.

It’s time to plan your weekend away in Edinburgh

With all these well-loved attractions as well as new and exciting activities, there has never been a better time for a weekend in Edinburgh.

What are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your trip! Save 20% on your next trip to Edinburgh.