Scotland is a magical place full of sunlight, mist, rolling hills and deep lakes. And Edinburgh
allows you to get a glimpse of it all. Up to Edinburgh Castle and down the Royal Mile, this city
spans centuries of Scottish history making it an interesting place to visit, learn from and enjoy.
HOW TO GET THERE
Flying to Edinburgh only takes about forty five minutes from London and there are various flights available from
such airlines as easyjet.com and british airways. You can also take a train take the train or, if you are very brave, a
coach.
GETTING AROUND
If you are staying downtown, a lot of the sights you will want to see are within walking distance and there are a number of
free tours you can take with the kids. But a great way to get around Edinburgh is to ride around the city in a
hop on – hop off bus. It stops at 24 spots around the city, including Edinburgh Castle, Greyfriars Bobby, Princes Street
Gardens, and more. Tickets are valid for 24 hours and you can board the double-decker bus anywhere on the route.
WHERE TO EAT
Monster Mash: Mashed potatoes in all sorts of varieties. Fun, unique, child friendly and affordable!
Henderson’s of Edinburgh: Hearty food at sensible prices, served in a relaxed family atmosphere! Half portions
of any dish will be prepared for children, while colouring pages and crayons will keep them busy.
http://www.hendersonsofedinburgh.co.uk/
Reds: This cosy restaurant is a great place to enjoy teatime, there is an area to keep the kids amused whilst you enjoy
your food and the cuisine consists of healthy freshly prepared meals. http://www.reds4families.com/
WHERE TO STAY
Corstorphine Lodge: Victorian villa with quiet walled garden in a very convenient location close to both city centre
and airport. A variety of spacious family accommodation is available here.
Novotel Edinburgh Centre: Top quality service and bright stylish family rooms. The hotel has an indoor pool and
fitness centre. Free accommodation and breakfast for up to two children under 16 sharing a room with adults and baby
equipment is available. The hotel has a restaurant as well where a healthy kids menu is served, with activity sheets to
keep the children amused. http://www.novotel.com/gb/hotel-3271-novotel-edinburgh-centre/index.shtml
WHAT TO DO
Castle
Edinburgh Castle – Visit the castle where the Scottish kings ruled, lived and fought against their enemies.
Museum
Museum of Childhood – The first museum in the world specializing in the history of childhood, this museum has toys
of all kinds, moving toys, stuffed toys, war toys, every kind of toy, this museum should be renamed the ‘Museum
of Toys’. (free!)
Scenic View
Camera Obscura – Very cool way to introduce the children to this city. Amusing, interesting and interactive way to see
the city with interesting guides that will teach your children how to look at the surroundings in a whole new way.
Farm in the City
Gorgie City Farm – Visit Kids Rambo or Bount the sheep, a cow, and other fun farm animals right in the city. (free!)
Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo – The Edinburgh Zoo has the largest colony of penguins in the world. The zoo is also home to
endangered animals such as Siberian tigers, pygmy hippos, poison arrow frogs and red pandas.