Museums & Galleries Edinburgh offers up a magical treasure trove of budget-friendly family fun with something for all ages and interests. From exploring old games and toys to climbing one of the biggest monuments to a writer in the world, we have some excellent suggestions for a fun-packed day.
Come and explore the cobbled streets and mysterious wynds of Auld Reekie and use this handy itinerary to guide you along your way.
Morning
Museum of Childhood
Open 10am to 5pm every day, free entry
Where else would a family tour begin? Edinburgh’s Museum of Childhood is a colourful and fun museum packed full of toys, games and stories which explore the history of British childhood throughout the generations.
Writers' Museum
Open 10am to 5pm every day, free entry
Time to wander through Edinburgh’s historic streets now as you head up the Royal Mile to a narrow and secretive path – Lady Stair’s Close. Nestled in amongst the 16th and 17th century buildings is The Writers’ Museum, which celebrates the lives of three giants of Scottish Literature – Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Don’t worry if you haven’t read the work of these famous writers, it’s their fascinating life stories and their immortal connection to Edinburgh which will delight and entertain. Home to rare books, portraits, manuscripts and personal items including Burns’ writing desk, the rocking horse Walter Scott used as a child and Robert Louis Stevenson’s riding boots, this museum is a hidden gem, guaranteed to ignite the imagination.
Makars' Court
Explore Makars’ Court - right outside (free, open access)
Right outside The Writers’ Museum in Lady Stair’s Close you’ll find Makars’ Court, a constantly evolving project to celebrate the lives and works of Scottish writers. Each of the writers is commemorated by a quotation inscribed in stone and set in the paving leading from both The Mound and the Lawnmarket to the door of The Writers’ Museum. Imagine it a bit like Edinburgh’s own Hollywood Boulevard (only without the guaranteed sunshine)! Have a look and see how many of Scotland’s great poets, essayists and novelists you can find.
Afternoon
City Art Centre
Open 10am to 5pm every day, free entry
Visit our free family ArtSpace in the heart of the City Art Centre. A whole space dedicated to being creative as a family. Explore our worksheets and learn about Scottish Art in a fun way. Our baskets are brimming over with materials for you to explore and take you well on your journey to be the next great Scottish artist.
Museum of Edinburgh
Open 10am to 5pm every day, free entry
Visit our family learning space in Museum of Edinburgh. A family space where you can explore the museum using our arty worksheets and detail detective quests. Enjoy our reading corner and explore our replica object area. Our baskets are full of exciting textures and art materials for you to explore.
