With the October break now here, I thought I’d share a few of our favourite things to do now that the leaves have truly turned! Not everything is within the city boundaries but it’s always nice to venture a little further afield. Whilst the weather in Edinburgh may be a bit unpredictable, it’s good to remember the mantra – there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!

Historical

  1. The People’s Story Museum – get an insight into Edinburgh’s working class people from the 18th to the late 20th century.
  2. Museum of Edinburgh – fascinating facts and gruesome tales housed in a beautiful 16th century building
  3. Hop on a train to Linlithgow and discover the birth place of Mary Queen of Scots
  4. Continue the Mary Queen of Scots tour and explore the ruins of Hailes Castle
  5. Go beneath the streets and discover Edinburgh’s ‘hidden history’ at Mary Kings Close
  6. According to Katie they used to play conkers in the ‘olden days’ – find some at Lauriston Castle
  7. Whilst you’re at Lauriston you could also check out their ‘Spooky Castle’ event!
  8. Take a step back in time at Preston Mill and Phantassie Doocot
  9. Can swimming count as historical? It can when it’s at one of Edinburgh’s Victorian Baths!
  10. Can it be too cold for ice-cream? S. Luca definitely falls into the great history category!

Cultural

  1. Climb to the top of the Scott Monument
  2. Book in for an evening of Stargazing at the Royal Observatory
  3. Lose an hour singing at Song Circle at the Skylark Cafe, Stockbridge
  4. Learn about Owls and then burn off some energy in the adventure play park at the Scottish Owl Centre
  5. Hop across the water and discover the Royal Burgh of Culross
  6. Learn about Leith’s maritime history at Trinity House – must pre-book!
  7. Be a tourist and hop on an Edinburgh Bus Tour
  8. Celebrate Edinburgh author JK Rowling with a visit to Diagon House
  9. Check out what’s on for families at the National Galleries of Scotland
  10. Embrace your inner tourist and join a City Sightseeing tour!

 
 
 
 
 
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Active

  1. Go retro at the roller rink or brave the skate ramps at Ocean Terminal
  2. Graduate to some loftier climbs at Ratho International Climbing Arena
  3. Colinton Dell – Great for walking, cycling, exploring, picnic and paddling in the Water of Leith
  4. Sunday Funday at The Yard – suitable for preschool and primary aged kids
  5. Dalkeith Country Park – run off some steam at the epic Fort Douglas
  6. Ice skating isn’t just for Christmas! Head to Murrayfield Ice Rink
  7. Try out Kayaking at Bridge 8 Hub – or even try out kick biking!
  8. For six year olds and above – take on Aqua Dash at the Commonwealth Pool
  9. Hit the slopes at Hillend – or opt for the more leisurely option of tubing
  10. Sign up to a Junior or Youth Course at Port Edgar Watersports

Rainy Days

  1. Escape to another world at Edinburgh’s Story Telling Centre
  2. Under 5’s can engage in imaginative play at Toots Play Cafe
  3. Brave Soft Play at the immense Wonder World
  4. Enjoy some playtime at Turtle Dove Play Cafe
  5. Ever seen a million pounds?  You can at the Museum on the Mound!
  6. Attend a Kids Art Class at Honey Pot Creative Cafe
  7. Head to Camera Obscura for a blend of 21st tech and Edinburgh history
  8. Visit Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World – but be wary of the creepy crawlies too!
  9. Find a new gem or listen to a story at the (wonderfully independent) Golden Hare Books 
  10. Enjoy brunch and utilise the toys at Cafe Milk at the Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop

Outdoors

  1. Portobello Beach (you can always visit the Arcades if things turn really dreich!)
  2. Explore the Fairy Trail at Archerfield Walled Garden
  3. Pick your own Pumpkin at Craigie’s Farm
  4. Visit this amazing FREE community resource – Gorgie City Farm
  5. Something for any weather really – Almond Valley
  6. Walk round Harlaw Reservoir or wander into The Pentlands
  7. Spot some Highland Coos at Beecraigs Country Park
  8. Explore a Site of Scientific Interest – Almondell Country Park
  9. Play the Oldest Short Hole Golf Course in the World at Bruntsfield Links
  10. Whilst you need to be careful of the tide times, crossing over Cramond Island is also a grand adventure!
It can be tough to entertain children when the weather is cold, rainy or wet. So here's 50 things to do with kids in Edinburgh no matter what the weather. There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing! This post contains 50 activities for kids in Edinburgh for in the Autumn, so make sure you get out and enjoy the fall www.edinburghwithkids.com

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