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
- The People’s Story Museum – get an insight into Edinburgh’s working class people from the 18th to the late 20th century.
- Museum of Edinburgh – fascinating facts and gruesome tales housed in a beautiful 16th century building
- Hop on a train to Linlithgow and discover the birth place of Mary Queen of Scots
- Continue the Mary Queen of Scots tour and explore the ruins of Hailes Castle
- Go beneath the streets and discover Edinburgh’s ‘hidden history’ at Mary Kings Close
- According to Katie they used to play conkers in the ‘olden days’ – find some at Lauriston Castle
- Whilst you’re at Lauriston you could also check out their ‘Spooky Castle’ event!
- Take a step back in time at Preston Mill and Phantassie Doocot
- Can swimming count as historical? It can when it’s at one of Edinburgh’s Victorian Baths!
- Can it be too cold for ice-cream? S. Luca definitely falls into the great history category!
Cultural
- Climb to the top of the Scott Monument
- Book in for an evening of Stargazing at the Royal Observatory
- Lose an hour singing at Song Circle at the Skylark Cafe, Stockbridge
- Learn about Owls and then burn off some energy in the adventure play park at the Scottish Owl Centre
- Hop across the water and discover the Royal Burgh of Culross
- Learn about Leith’s maritime history at Trinity House – must pre-book!
- Be a tourist and hop on an Edinburgh Bus Tour
- Celebrate Edinburgh author JK Rowling with a visit to Diagon House
- Check out what’s on for families at the National Galleries of Scotland
- Embrace your inner tourist and join a City Sightseeing tour!
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Active
- Go retro at the roller rink or brave the skate ramps at Ocean Terminal
- Graduate to some loftier climbs at Ratho International Climbing Arena
- Colinton Dell – Great for walking, cycling, exploring, picnic and paddling in the Water of Leith
- Sunday Funday at The Yard – suitable for preschool and primary aged kids
- Dalkeith Country Park – run off some steam at the epic Fort Douglas
- Ice skating isn’t just for Christmas! Head to Murrayfield Ice Rink
- Try out Kayaking at Bridge 8 Hub – or even try out kick biking!
- For six year olds and above – take on Aqua Dash at the Commonwealth Pool
- Hit the slopes at Hillend – or opt for the more leisurely option of tubing
- Sign up to a Junior or Youth Course at Port Edgar Watersports
Rainy Days
- Escape to another world at Edinburgh’s Story Telling Centre
- Under 5’s can engage in imaginative play at Toots Play Cafe
- Brave Soft Play at the immense Wonder World
- Enjoy some playtime at Turtle Dove Play Cafe
- Ever seen a million pounds? You can at the Museum on the Mound!
- Attend a Kids Art Class at Honey Pot Creative Cafe
- Head to Camera Obscura for a blend of 21st tech and Edinburgh history
- Visit Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World – but be wary of the creepy crawlies too!
- Find a new gem or listen to a story at the (wonderfully independent) Golden Hare Books
- Enjoy brunch and utilise the toys at Cafe Milk at the Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop
Outdoors
- Portobello Beach (you can always visit the Arcades if things turn really dreich!)
- Explore the Fairy Trail at Archerfield Walled Garden
- Pick your own Pumpkin at Craigie’s Farm
- Visit this amazing FREE community resource – Gorgie City Farm
- Something for any weather really – Almond Valley
- Walk round Harlaw Reservoir or wander into The Pentlands
- Spot some Highland Coos at Beecraigs Country Park
- Explore a Site of Scientific Interest – Almondell Country Park
- Play the Oldest Short Hole Golf Course in the World at Bruntsfield Links
- Whilst you need to be careful of the tide times, crossing over Cramond Island is also a grand adventure!
These are great! Love the way you’ve split them up into categories too. It’s the rainy days I usually struggle with so I’m really happy to have this list – thank you!