Enjoy a Family
Break in Edinburgh
Words and pictures: Sonja Bolger
Edinburgh is a charming city that never failed to delight us as a couple, and we love returning to explore everything it has to offer a family. Alongside wellknown Edinburgh attractions, there’s always something new to do! Our itinerary is focused on activities that entertain a toddler but are enjoyable for us too, and we’ve offered alternatives for older children.
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The Hop On Hop Off bus is a fantastic way to orientate yourself while learning about Scotland’s diverse capital. Edinburgh’s centre is compact, but the bus allows you to see the lay of the land while discovering the city’s history. Children can listen to the ‘Horrible Histories’ Kids Commentary too!
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Disembark near Princes Street Gardens to spend the rest of the morning around the former “Nor Loch”. There’s a small playground for little ones, climbing Scott Monument for older kids, or shopping along Princes Street.
Loudons New Waverley is one of our favourite family-friendly lunch spots, just a short walk from the gardens. They have a tasty lunch menu and tempting cakes too. After, we take an ambling walk up the famous Royal Mile, browse touristy shops, and end up at Edinburgh Castle. We find inside Edinburgh Castle is geared towards older kids, so we enjoy its majestic sight then head to Camera Obscura & the World of Illusions. It has five floors of mind-bending entertainment and a rooftop terrace. Do both if you have time, though!