The National Museum of Scotland stands out as one of the top family-friendly destinations in Edinburgh. With its diverse range of attractions and free admission, it’s a must-visit for families exploring the city. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the museum’s highlights:
Discover the Rooftop Garden
One of the hidden gems of the National Museum of Scotland is its Rooftop Garden, offering breathtaking views of Edinburgh. To access it, head to the Kingdom of Scots area on Level One and take the ‘terrace lift’ to the top. From here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city, making it an ideal spot for both kids and adults to soak in Edinburgh’s rich history. It does sometimes get closed if there are high winds or particularly dramatic showers – but generally we’ve been up there in all seasons!
Explore and Imagine
The Explore and Imagine areas are perfect for kids of all ages. In the Imagine gallery, younger children can enjoy interactive exhibits like the light table and building blocks. Meanwhile, older kids will love the Explore Gallery, with attractions like the Hot Air Balloons and Magnetic trains. Don’t miss the chance to unleash your creativity in the Fashion and Style exhibit, where kids can design their own outfits.
Dive into the Grand Gallery
The Grand Gallery is a must-see for visitors of all ages. From the awe-inspiring Animal World to the fascinating Earth in Space exhibit, there’s something for everyone here. For families with younger children, Adventure Planet offers a range of interactive activities, including dressing up and dinosaur digs.
Discover the ‘Scotland’ Wing
Explore the rich history of Scotland in the ‘Scotland’ Wing, accessible from the balconies in the Grand Galleries. While adults may appreciate the Industry and Empire galleries, kids will be captivated by the Ancient Egypt exhibit and the water turbine in the Energise Gallery.
Accessibility for All
The National Museum of Scotland is committed to providing a welcoming environment for visitors of all abilities. Families with additional needs can take advantage of sensory backpacks available at both entrances, containing aids like ear defenders and fidget toys. Be sure to download the sensory map to locate quieter areas within the museum, and don’t hesitate to ask staff for assistance.
The Museum’s Guide on Accessibility is great – with a really helpful list about noise and crowds. It absolutely is possible to pick quieter moments in the museum but it can be really busy in the holidays – I’d always opt for the Scotland wing on days like that. Whilst they don’t have as much for kids they are less crowded and the noise level is significantly better there, the lights are also dimmer and so it feels a lot calmerr.
Before your trip, consider entering via the Tower Entrance to avoid crowds. Check the museum website for any special events or exhibitions, and be prepared to spend several hours exploring the vast galleries. Remember, admission is free, but donations are welcome to support the museum’s continued efforts.
Overall, the National Museum of Scotland offers an unforgettable experience for families visiting Edinburgh. With its diverse attractions and commitment to accessibility, it’s the perfect destination for a day of exploration and discovery. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich cultural heritage at this iconic institution.
