Great and informative overview of Edinburgh!
Edinburgh Tour for Kids
Spark curiosity with Picts, chessmen, and Old Town clues
The Finer Details
Edinburgh teems with stories of kings and queens, castles and bards just waiting to be discovered. On this 2-hour Edinburgh Old Town Tour for Kids, we'll travel through time from a 400-year-old school for orphans, to an imposing castle, to mysterious Victorian rooftops.
Tour Itinerary
We'll begin in the National Museum of Scotland, where we'll discuss the origins of Scotland and its people. Specifically, we'll learn about the mysterious Picts, taking a look at the fascinating stones with intricate carvings they've left behind, and examining some artifacts left behind to try to figure out what Norse people were doing in Scotland at the time. We'll also take a look at the Lewis chessmen, beautifully carved 12th-century chess pieces, to help us learn about games and daily life in Scotland almost 1,000 years ago.
From here, we'll venture out into Old Town to examine up close what it would've been like to live here. We'll encounter secret passages and medieval alleys, and uncover traces of Scotland's history and traditions in every small detail. Taking in Victoria Street and the Grass Market, we'll learn about water, markets, and daily life in the city—like how, at one point, ale was actually safer to drink than water! You'll discover the history of bagpipes, learn about ancient bards, and discover how Scotland eventually became part of the United Kingdom.
Take Aways
By the end of the tour, we will have discovered numerous fascinating characters and stories throughout Scotland's colorful history. Children and adults will come away with a better understanding of Scottish history and the role of Edinburgh in history and today.
FAQ
- Where do we meet? After your order is placed and confirmed, we will send you a full confirmation with meeting point details and all the information you need to know.
- Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside? We will go inside the National Museum of Scotland and possibly some other buildings, depending on the weather and the day.
- Will you pre-purchase tickets? Tickets are not necessary as the Museum is free
- What if it’s raining? Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your expert will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.
- Is this tour good for kids? Yes! This tour was specifically designed for families with kids. Feel free to provide us with information such as their favorite school subjects and hobbies. This will help us match you with the best possible expert.
Meet the Experts
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Edinburgh CastleHistoric Scottish fortress atop Castle Rock with royal history and panoramic city views.
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National Museum of ScotlandEdinburgh museum displaying Scottish history, culture, science, and technology.
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Greyfriars Tolbooth and Highland Kirk
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Writers' Museum
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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Food and drinkUnless booking a Food & Drink tour or tasting experience, refreshments are not included.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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GratuitiesTips aren’t included, but we encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Don’t just take our word for it
Claire is an awesome guide, highly recommend!
Anne was great and very kid friendly. She tailored the tour for our kids, with lots of references specifically for them. Highly recommend Anne and this tour!
Book a Tour
Let Your Curiosity Shape Your Journey
Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.
Structured, never scripted
Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.
Crafted for conversation
With 12 or fewer guests, ask questions, engage with your Expert, and fully immerse yourself.
Experts, not guides
Explore with 1,200+ Experts—from historians and architects to archaeologists and chefs.
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