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Are you planning a family trip to Edinburgh, but worried about the cost of attractions? Don’t worry, there are plenty of free or cheap places to visit that will keep the whole family entertained. As recommended by locals, Edinburgh has a wide variety of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious food that won’t break the bank. From hiking up Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views of the city to exploring the National Museum of Scotland and its fascinating exhibits, there is something for everyone.
Table of Contents
- Edinburgh Castle
- National Museum of Scotland
- Arthur’s Seat
- Princes Street Gardens
- Royal Botanic Garden
- The Writers’ Museum
- St Giles’ Cathedral
- Greyfriars Kirkyard
- Scottish Parliament Building
- Street Food Vendors
Edinburgh Castle
While the entry fee can be a bit steep, families can save money by purchasing tickets in advance or visiting during the off-season. Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and a must-visit attraction for families. While the entry fee can be a bit steep, families can save money by purchasing tickets in advance or visiting during the off-season.
Once inside, families can explore the castle’s history and architecture, including the Royal Palace, the Crown Jewels, and the famous One O’Clock Gun. Kids will love hearing stories about the castle’s famous residents, like Mary Queen of Scots, and can even dress up in medieval costumes.
The castle also offers guided tours and interactive exhibits that provide a fun and educational experience for the whole family. And of course, the views from the castle are simply stunning, providing a breathtaking panorama of the city below. A visit to Edinburgh Castle is a great way for families to learn about the city’s rich history and enjoy some fun activities together, making it a great thing to do on a family trip to Edinburgh.
National Museum of Scotland
This museum is free to enter, but donations are always appreciated. It has interactive exhibits for kids and fascinating artifacts for adults.
The National Museum of Scotland is a fantastic attraction for families visiting Edinburgh, with free admission for all. The museum has something to offer for all ages and interests, with a wide variety of interactive exhibits and galleries covering topics from Scottish history and culture to science and technology. Kids will love exploring the natural world in the Animal World gallery, where they can get up close and personal with an array of specimens from around the globe.
They can also immerse themselves in the world of science and technology in the interactive Science and Technology gallery, which features hands-on exhibits that are both educational and fun. The museum also has a fantastic collection of Scottish artifacts, including the famous Lewis Chessmen, which will give families an insight into the rich cultural heritage of Scotland.
The museum has several family-friendly amenities, including baby-changing facilities and a designated family room, making it a great place to spend a day with the family. A visit to the National Museum of Scotland is a great way to learn, play and explore together, all for free.
Arthur’s Seat
Families can take a hike up this hill for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great outdoor activity that doesn’t cost a penny. Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano located in Holyrood Park, offering breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.
It is a fantastic outdoor activity that families can enjoy together, with no entry fee required. The hike up the hill is relatively easy and suitable for children, and the summit provides a perfect spot for a family picnic. Families can also explore the rugged landscape of Holyrood Park, which is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, and home to an array of flora and fauna.
Children will love the chance to spot some of the park’s resident animals, including rabbits and deer. The hike up Arthur’s Seat is not only a great way to stay active and get some fresh air but also a fantastic opportunity to learn about the city’s geology and history. Kids will love hearing stories about the volcano and its role in shaping the city’s landscape. A visit to Arthur’s Seat is a great way for families to enjoy some outdoor fun and get a unique perspective on the city, making it an unmissable attraction in Edinburgh.
Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens is a beautiful park located in the heart of Edinburgh and a great attraction for families. The park is free to enter and offers a range of activities that kids will love. Families can explore the park’s many features, including the Ross Fountain, the floral clock, and the statues of Scottish historical figures.
Children can also enjoy playing on the park’s large playground, which has plenty of space for running around and burning off energy. The gardens are a popular spot for picnics, and families can enjoy a leisurely lunch while taking in the stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town.
The park also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and festivals, making it a fun place to visit no matter the season. A visit to Princes Street Gardens is a great way for families to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some outdoor fun and relaxation.
Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of Edinburgh and a great attraction for families. The garden is free to enter and offers a range of activities that kids will love. Families can explore the extensive collection of plants from around the world, including the famous Rock Garden and the Victorian Palm House.
Children can learn about different plant species and their importance in our ecosystem, and enjoy spotting the wide variety of wildlife that call the gardens home, from squirrels and rabbits to a vast array of birdlife. The garden also features several themed trails, including a Chinese Hillside Garden and a Scottish Heath Garden, which offer a unique and engaging way to explore the park’s various habitats.
The garden has a range of family-friendly amenities, including a designated picnic area and a play park, which features a range of equipment suitable for children of all ages. A visit to the Royal Botanic Garden is a great way for families to spend a day exploring the wonders of nature, all for free.
The Writers’ Museum
The Writers’ Museum in Edinburgh is a unique and fascinating attraction that is perfect for families. Located in the historic Old Town, the museum is dedicated to the lives and works of three of Scotland’s most famous writers – Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. The museum is free to enter and offers a range of exhibits that are both educational and entertaining for visitors of all ages.
Families can explore the exhibits at their own pace, learning about the writers’ lives, works, and legacy through interactive displays, artefacts, and artwork. Children can enjoy a range of hands-on activities, including quizzes and puzzles, as they discover more about the lives of these famous writers.
The museum is also home to a range of special events and exhibitions throughout the year, including talks, workshops, and guided tours. A visit to the Writers’ Museum is a great way for families to learn more about Scotland’s rich literary heritage and explore the lives of some of its most famous writers in a fun and engaging way.
St Giles’ Cathedral
St Giles’ Cathedral is an iconic landmark and a must-see attraction for families visiting Edinburgh. The cathedral is a stunning example of medieval architecture and is steeped in history and tradition, making it a great place to explore for visitors of all ages. The cathedral is free to enter and offers a range of educational exhibits and activities that are suitable for families.
Families can take a guided tour of the cathedral, learning about its rich history, architecture, and religious significance. Children can enjoy exploring the various chapels and learning about the different saints and historical figures associated with the cathedral.
The cathedral also hosts a range of special events throughout the year, including concerts and exhibitions, making it a great destination for families looking for a cultural experience. With its beautiful architecture, rich history, and range of educational activities, St Giles’ Cathedral is a great place for families to explore and learn about the history and culture of Edinburgh.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Greyfriars Kirkyard is a fascinating and historic site that is perfect for families visiting Edinburgh. The Kirkyard is located in the heart of the Old Town and is the final resting place of many famous figures from Scottish history, including the legendary Greyfriars Bobby. The Kirkyard is free to enter and offers a range of educational exhibits and activities that are suitable for families.
Families can take a guided tour of the Kirkyard, learning about its rich history and the famous figures buried there. Children can enjoy exploring the various graves and learning about the different people who are buried there. The Kirkyard is also home to a range of special events and exhibitions throughout the year, including talks and tours, making it a great destination for families looking for a cultural experience. With its fascinating history and beautiful setting, Greyfriars Kirkyard is a great place for families to explore and learn about the history and culture of Edinburgh.
Scottish Parliament Building
The Scottish Parliament Building is a modern and innovative building that is an excellent destination for families visiting Edinburgh. The building is free to enter and offers a range of educational exhibits and activities that are suitable for families. Families can take a guided tour of the building, learning about its unique architecture and design, as well as the history and role of the Scottish Parliament.
Children can enjoy exploring the various chambers and learning about the Scottish political system. The building also hosts a range of special events and exhibitions throughout the year, including talks and debates, making it a great destination for families looking for a cultural experience. With its innovative design and interactive exhibits, the Scottish Parliament Building is a great place for families to learn about the history and politics of Scotland.
Street Food Vendors
Edinburgh is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and street food vendors are a big part of that scene. Visiting street food vendors is a great thing for families to do in Edinburgh because it allows them to experience the city’s culinary delights in a fun and affordable way. With a wide variety of vendors scattered throughout the city, families can sample a diverse range of foods and flavors, from traditional Scottish dishes to international cuisine.
Street food is also an excellent way to experience the local culture and connect with the community, as many vendors are passionate about sharing their stories and recipes. Moreover, street food vendors often offer affordable prices, making it an excellent option for families looking to save money while still enjoying the local cuisine.
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