Edinburgh in the Rain!
Edinburgh in the Rain – In Scotland,weather matters! Little ones shouldn’t get too wet, too miserable or too cold, so here’s a list of cool indoor locations in Edinburgh to keep you cosy and allow you to see the best of Auld Reekie.
Grab an Edinburgh Bus Tours to Escape Edinburgh in the Rain
The hop on/hop off bus is a great way to get driven round all the sites from the comfort of a warm double-decker. The bus drops you at the door of many key sights and attractions (ideal on a cold, blustery day), such as Dynamic Earth (above). Remember you will have to wait at bus stops (which aren’t always covered) so incorporate this into your plans and outfit choice! Tickets can be bought online in advance, or contactlessly on the day – edinburghtour.com
Edinburgh Castle – Edinburgh in the Rain
Edinburgh Castle is on most people’s bucket list, and it’s ideal for inclement weather. When we were in Edinburgh, visitors could explore the Great Hall, St Margaret’s Chapel, the Scottish National War Memorial, the One O’Clock Gun, Mons Meg (the famous medieval gun) and external areas. Since then so much has reopened so consider the Royal Palace, Honours of Scotland (Crown Jewels & the Stone of Destiny), Fight for the Castle exhibition, Regimental Museums, National War Museum, One o’Clock Gun exhibition, Queen Anne Tea Room, guided tours and gift shops.
You might also appreciate Things to Do in West Lothian with Kids…
Dynamic Earth – Edinburgh in the Rain
When I read that Dynamic Earth explored the history of our planet I wasn’t sure if learning about tectonic plates was really my vibe, but Dynamic Earth is truly dynamic! The kids were transfixed from start to finish. You become a timelord and go back in time like Dr Who, feel an earthquake shake the earth beneath you, touch a real iceberg, and lots more. Read a full review here.
Eat!
Find the best places to eat in Edinburgh here, includes a mix of vibes and price points across the city.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is a fantastic indoor resource, especially when you consider it costs absolutely nothing. The stuffed animals and skeletons are an instant hit with wee ones. The Science & Technology Gallery is full of ‘real life’ planes, alongside hands-on experiments. Charles Rennie Mackintosh shines in the gallery of Art, Fashion and Design, and we uncovered some national treasures in the Kingdom of the Scots. [There’s also a café, which sells typical museum café fare.]
Maid of the Forth
Slightly out of town, head to South Queensferry for a 90 minute sightseeing tour taking in the three iconic bridges and views of the ruined Inchcolm Abbey on Inchcolm island. From the warmth of the ship, spot seals and lots of birdlife. maidoftheforth.co.uk. From here, you may be tempted to cross the bridge into North Queensferry to visit Deep Sea World.
Places We Haven’t Visited Yet
Other indoor treats that we haven’t visited as a family (but heard very good things) include the world of illusion that is Camera Obscura. Or for a slice of historic life and curious social history, head underground at Mary King’s Close to discover a warren of streets frozen in time (suitable for those aged 5+ only). Older children may also appreciate the Scottish National Gallery,the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, or the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Visit one of the oldest buildings on the Royal Mile at the National Trust for Scotland’s Gladstone’s Land. Grand houses include the Palace of Holyroodhouse (the Queen’s official residence in Scotland) and Hopetoun House (closed for the season until Good Friday 2022). Or, for more luxury, take a peak onboard the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith.
WHERE TO STAY
Self-catering accommodation works really well in bad weather as you have space to hang out as a family, and shelter from the elements. Plus it’s more flexible if you need to change your plans, and nip back for lunch on a rainy day. We stayed in central, homely accommodation called the Knight Residence by Mansley, which provides 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with fully furnished dining kitchens, living rooms, and secure parking. 0.4 miles from Edinburgh Castle and 0.6 miles from Princes Street. Read a full review here, and check availability and prices here
Save for a Bright Edinburgh Day – read about fun outdoor activities here
Extra Info – Don’t Forget!
All the info in this blog post is naturally subject to change especially in times of Covid, so please double check any info and prebook tickets as required before setting off. Be sure to follow the Scottish Governments Covid-19 guidance and regulations. Masks are prerequisites in most attractions so don’t forget them. Bring cards rather than cash as many venues offer contactless payment. And, remember to have a great time.
If you found ‘Edinburgh in the Rain’ useful, then don’t miss a post. We’d love you to subscribe here. Join the conversation on Facebook, or check out the bonny photos on Instagram. For any queries or opportunities please email scots2travel@hotmail.com. Text and images copyright of Scots2Travel. Check out our Privacy Policy here. Scots2Travel provides advice only, readers are responsible for their own health, excursions and holidays.
