Family break in Edinburgh
Any thoughts of what to do with the kids during this coming half-term break? It’s an opportunity to take them to do and see things that will help them experiment and discover the world. An educational and entertaining break is all they need.
Things to do and see for the whole family in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh’s Zoo is the second most popular tourist attraction in the city. It’s home to over 1000 animals from koalas, tigers and rhinos to pandas, chimpanzees and penguins.
The most popular attraction in the zoo used to be the penguin enclosure and the penguin parade which happens at 2:00 pm. Now it’s all about the 2 new addition: Tian Tian and Yang Guang, a couple of Giant Pandas.
They are being treated like celebrities with posters, toys and photos everywhere. A camera was set up next to their enclosure so you can watch them online! The popularity of the Panda couple is such that visitors who want to see them must book a time slot in advance.
The huge attention the Zoo and visitors are giving to the Pandas has made some of the penguins jealous. Several penguins, whose enclosure is next to the pandas’, were caught going to the toilet on visitors who were queuing to see the Pandas. It just proves that penguins are not only intelligent birds but also very sensitive. So, don’t forget to come by and say hello to the penguins too.
Anyway there is much more than pandas and penguins to see. There is a fantastic reptile house holding snakes, lizards and poisonous frogs (always a favourite with young children). An impressive bird collection that includes Australian cassowary, Steller’s sea eagle, black stork, hammerkop, thick billed parrot, Victoria crowned pigeon, European crane and the world famous collection of king, gentoo and rockhopper penguins. There are also individual exhibits of reptiles scattered around the park.
National Museum of Scotland
After 3 years of redevelopment and an investment of £47.4 million, the annex of the National Museum of Scotland opened its doors last July to become a must-visit attraction in Edinburgh!
With over 8,000 objects and with new high-tech interactive exhibits, visitors are taken on an inspiring journey through cultures across the world plus the wonders of nature, and the excitement of science and discovery. There you will see objects as varied as a life-sized cast of a Tyrannosaurus Rex to 3000 year-old mummies and motor cars.
The highlight is called the Window on the World, a four-storey installation with 800 fascinating objects from National Museums’ collections. It’s the largest
display of its kind in the United Kingdom. Another highlight is Dolly, the world’s most famous sheep who was the first cloned mammal and will also be
there.
Go to the Info Zone on level 3 to pick up a free family footprint trail which will guide you through the galleries and exhibitions, visiting the Interactive Galleries and Discovery Zones.
There is so much to see and learn. As its admission is free, there is no need to rush or see everything on the same day.
For more information about the new museum, visit their website.
Dynamic Earth
The Dynamic Earth is a state-of-the-art science museum dedicated to Mother Earth with interactive exhibitions and activities about earthquakes, volcanoes, icebergs, rainforests and dinosaurs. It’s a perfect indoor activity for the whole family.
Don’t miss the movies at the Show Dome. It’s an unforgettable experience!
There is a 10% discount if you book online.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Right next to the Edinburgh Castle is the Camera Obscura – one of first purpose built tourist attractions in Edinburgh dating from the 1850s. It offers stunning views over the city of Edinburgh.
The Camera Obscura works only with daylight so take that into consideration when planning your visit. It’s better to choose a brighter day or go around 10-11am. There you will see Edinburgh from above, you will have the chance to move cars and people walking on the streets.
After, explore the World of Illusions for amazing optical illusions that can keep all the family entertained. It’s funny and you don’t need to be a kid to feel like one! More information can be found on their website Camera Obscura.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Centre includes the historic John Knox House, 99-seat Netherbow Theatre and the George Mackay Brown Library, and is the headquarters of the Scottish Storytelling Network.
There is always something going on at Scottish Storytelling Centre. The Storytelling Court includes a free child-friendly exhibition, Scotland’s Stories, as well as a programme of temporary displays.
Their programme of events includes live storytelling performances, theatre and literature, plus exciting visual arts, workshops and training events.
Royal Botanic Gardens
It’s a lovely place to go with children. The grounds, flowers and trees are beautiful. It’s open the whole year round with different highlights each month.
It offers drop-in family events that will engage kids and parents alike. Its café and shop are worth a visit.
Access to the gardens is free.
