5 great family attractions in Edinburgh
Make the most of the autumn half term holiday and take a trip to the Scottish capital by train
It takes a hard heart not to love the Scottish capital. Whatever you might be hankering for, its heady mix of culture, fascinating heritage and beautiful sights ensures there is plenty to enjoy. The city is a culinary wonderland that boasts Michelin-starred chefs, street food gurus and something to suit every palette in between, so when you’ve worked up an appetite walking the Royal Mile or climbing to Arthur’s Seat for that must-see view, you know your efforts will be richly rewarded. These five attractions are a great place to start getting to know this timeless city.
Fire up their imaginations
The National Museum of Scotland (above) is packed with interactive exhibits designed to excite and engage young minds. If they are brimming with energy, try converting it into electricity on a hamster wheel generator, or see if they can cycle as fast as a cheetah in an interactive road race. Later, ask a robot to spell your name in blocks, send hot air balloons soaring into the rafters, or simply enjoy a calm moment soaking in the panoramic views from the roof terrace.
Free entry; nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland
See the only pandas in the UK
Edinburgh Zoo has the distinction of being the only place in the UK to currently have giant pandas (above) and koalas roaming around its enclosures. Yet while these loveable rascals might get the lion’s share of the limelight, there are lots more species to see at this 82-acre attraction, including penguins, wallabies, apes and all sorts of wee beasties.
Under-3s free, 3-15s £9.95, adults £17.50; edinburghzoo.org.uk
Britannia rules the waves
The Royal Yacht Britannia was the nautical residence of the Queen for over 40 years and sailed over 1 million miles in that time. It has been berthed in Edinburgh (above) for the past 20 years, allowing visitors to explore its five decks while retracing the steps of the Royal Family and their distinguished guests, such as Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela and Rajiv Gandhi.
Under-5s free, 5-17s £8.50, adults £16; royalyachtbritannia.co.uk
More destinations to discover this half term
Top of the rock
Hunkered on its rock high above the city, Edinburgh’s castle would be a must for its views alone, yet there is also a great deal to see and do while exploring this iconic stronghold. Don’t miss the spectacular Crown Jewels of Scotland, on display alongside the Stone of Destiny, or the one o’clock firing of a 105mm field gun (above).
Under-5s free, 5-15s £10.20, adults £17; edinburghcastle.scot
A stroll in the garden
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (above) is a tranquil oasis just outside the city centre with around 70 acres of beautiful landscape to enjoy. Its 10 greenhouses house 3,000 exotic plants drawn from all corners of the world, from steamy tropics to arid deserts. Outdoors, the living collection spans rock gardens, alpine houses and woodland, and a special walking tour is currently available as part of the Scottish Tree Festival.
Under-15s free, adults £5.85, tree tour £6; rbge.org.uk
Think the car is the cheapest option for a family day out or getaway? Think again. With the LNER Family Return ticket, up to two adults and four children can travel for one great fixed price, starting from just £59*. Leave the car at home and hop onboard an LNER train for a hassle-free trip. With savings of up to £315** for families, why wouldn’t you get the train? Book your Family Return now
*Ticket must be booked at least 7 days in advance.
**Based on a weighted average of all Advance journeys sold on routes offering the LNER Family Return ticket.
For more great half term ideas, click here