
Top Family Vacation Spots in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom
1. Edinburgh Zoo
Home to over 100 species, including pandas and penguins. Daily keeper talks and animal experiences available.
- Animal Encounters: Interactive experiences such as penguin parades and koala holds.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths and strollers for hire.
- Safety: Well-maintained grounds with safety measures in place.
2. Royal Yacht Britannia
Explore Queen Elizabeth II's floating palace. Learn about the Royal Family and British maritime history.
- Historical Significance: Step aboard a piece of royal history.
- Interactive Exhibits: Engaging displays showcasing the ship's history and restoration process.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly decks and accessible facilities.
3. National Museum of Scotland
Experience the history, art, and culture of Scotland under one roof. Offers interactive exhibits for kids.
- Diverse Exhibits: From dinosaurs to fashion, the museum covers a wide range of topics.
- Interactive Learning: Hands-on activities for children, such as dress-up areas and puzzles.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly layout and hearing loops available.
4. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Get immersed in a world of illusions, virtual reality experiences, and panoramic views of Edinburgh.
- Unique Experiences: Step inside the Victorian Camera Obscura for a unique view of Edinburgh.
- Interactive Fun: Hands-on exhibits like the Vortex Tunnel and Mirror Maze.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly, with accessible facilities and hearing loops available.
5. Scott Monument
A Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott. Climb the 287 steps for stunning city views.
- Historical Landmark: Visit one of Edinburgh's most iconic monuments.
- Panoramic Views: Take in breathtaking views of the city from the top of the monument.
- Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access, but stairs can be conquered with a bit of effort!
6. The Real Mary King's Close
Discover the hidden streets beneath Edinburgh's Royal Mile. Explore the lives of 17th-century residents.
- Historical Experience: Step back in time and explore a forgotten piece of Edinburgh history.
- Interactive Tours: Guided tours with costumed characters bringing the past to life.
- Accessibility: Some areas are wheelchair-accessible, but some staircases may require assistance.
7. Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Queen's official residence in Scotland. Explore the historic State Apartments and Abbey Ruins.
- Royal History: Experience the grandeur of a royal palace.
- Architectural Beauty: Marvel at the stunning architecture and gardens.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly grounds with some restrictions in the palace itself.
8. Edinburgh Castle
A historic fortress dominating the city skyline. Learn about Scotland's rich history and see the Crown Jewels.
- Historical Significance: Visit one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks.
- Interactive Tours: Guided tours with costumed characters and interactive exhibits.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly grounds, but some areas of the castle may require assistance.
9. Arthur's Seat
An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of Edinburgh. Perfect for family picnics and hikes.
- Nature Experience: Explore Scotland's rugged natural beauty.
- Active Outdoor Fun: Hike the hills and explore the historic ruins along the way.
- Accessibility: Some sections are wheelchair-accessible, but the hill is steep in places.
10. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Explore 70 acres of stunning gardens showcasing over 13,500 different plant species.
- Natural Wonders: Discover a world of exotic and native plants.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Children's play areas, workshops, and guided tours.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths with accessible facilities.
11. National Museum of Flight
Explore the history of aviation at this outdoor museum, featuring iconic planes and interactive exhibits.
- Historical Significance: Step aboard historic aircraft and learn about their role in history.
- Interactive Learning: Hands-on exhibits, simulators, and workshops for kids.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly outdoor spaces and accessible facilities.
12. Museum of Childhood
Step into a world dedicated to childhood memories. Explore toys, games, and costumes from the past.
- Nostalgic Experience: Relive your own childhood memories or create new ones.
- Interactive Learning: Hands-on exhibits and workshops for kids.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly layout with accessible facilities.
13. The Scottish Seabird Centre
Learn about Scotland's seabirds and marine wildlife through live cameras, interactive exhibits, and boat trips.
- Natural Wonders: Explore the wildlife of Scotland's coastline.
- Interactive Learning: Hands-on exhibits, live cameras, and boat trips for close encounters.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly indoor spaces with accessible facilities.
14. Deep Sea World
A marine life sanctuary featuring sharks, seals, and sea lions. Offers educational talks and feeding sessions.
- Educational Experience: Learn about Scotland's marine life through interactive exhibits.
- Animal Encounters: See seals, sea lions, and sharks up close in their natural habitats.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly indoor spaces with accessible facilities.
15. The Real Mary King's Close Ghost Tour
Experience the haunted side of Edinburgh on a ghost tour beneath the city streets.
- Historical Experience: Step back in time and uncover Edinburgh's spooky past.
- Interactive Tours: Guided tours with costumed characters and eerie tales of the city's history.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible with assistance, but some areas may be dark and narrow.