Camera Obscura & World of Illusions (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Camera Obscura & World of Illusions?
What makes it 89% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 are thrilled by plasma globes, vortex tunnel, and mirror maze, and staff engage well, yet about 100 stairs without a lift require frequent rests and close supervision.
Positives:
- Free admission for under-5s: One child under five enters free and can borrow a baby carrier at reception.
- Hands-on fun for all ages: Galleries range from gentle automata to thrilling illusions, so every child finds favorites.
Challenges:
- No lift access: Visitors must climb about 100 stairs; young children may need frequent breaks.
- Peak-time queues: Ticket slots can fill; walk-up entry may involve waiting during weekends.
What is Camera Obscura & World of Illusions?
- A Victorian-era tower preserving Edinburgh’s historic camera obscura instrument within its original rooftop chamber
- Five floors of interactive galleries devoted to optical curiosities, from mirror mazes and shadow walls to Ames rooms and perspective tricks
- A rooftop observatory projecting live panoramic cityscapes through periscopic lenses onto a circular viewing table beneath the dome
What is so special about Camera Obscura & World of Illusions for with kids?
- Historic live camera obscura demonstration
- Interactive illusion rooms for hands-on fun
- Free entry and baby carriers for under-5s
- 360° Edinburgh views from rooftop telescopes
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to try all main illusion rooms, the camera obscura show, and rooftop views without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Historical Camera Obscura show:
See a live projection of Edinburgh onto a viewing table.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes before showtimes on Floor 1 to get front-row spots.
Light Fantastic gallery:
Explore kaleidoscope tunnels, light harp, and colored shadow wall.
Tip: Use your phone camera on long exposure to capture rainbow silhouettes.
Mirror Maze & Vortex Tunnel:
Navigate shifting reflections and a spinning vortex corridor.
Tip: Hold hands with younger kids to guide them through safely.
Ames Room & Morph Machines:
Step inside to shrink, grow, or morph faces with optical tricks.
Tip: Encourage siblings to swap places for the funniest photo angles.
Rooftop Terrace telescopes:
Control high-zoom cameras to view Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat.
Tip: Check the weather forecast and bring a light jacket for wind at the top.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
- Book online in advance: Reserve a timed slot to skip the ticket queue and guarantee entry.
- Visit late afternoon: Arrive after 3 PM for shorter lines and a quieter experience on the rooftop.
Reviews of Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Raghav Modi
A fun experience for both kids and adults with loads of educational things presented in an interactive manner. The rooftop access for panoramic almost 360-degree views is nice as is the show they put on (short and sweet and funny). The activities on 4 floors are enjoyable. The staff is friendly and helpful.
Paul Taylorson
While on holiday in Scotland my daughter was desperate to visit this attraction. We were not disappointed over 5 floors and a roof terrace there were many unusual things to see . We found it great fun and although quite busy not so bad you couldn't get round. We visited during fringe week so Edinburgh was crazy busy so if you're not great with crowds avoid august. Quite steep hills to walk up to g...
mark houston
This provides several great opportunities for a family. It offers some great views from the open air roof, the. camera is really interesting and described well (entertaining) by the staff, and the illusion exhibits are not redundant to other illusion museums I've been to.
Wassim Ayass
A must-visit for a fun and memorable experience! Each floor is filled with incredible optical illusions that kept us entertained and amazed the whole way through. We had a great time exploring all the interactive exhibits. The Camera Obscura itself was fascinating—both fun to watch and interesting to learn about its history. And the view from the rooftop is absolutely stunning, offering one of the...
Chloe Halligan
Such a lovely experience and for someone solo travelling the staff were more than happy to help out with photos! The staff are very friendly and have great banter with the customers. The views were incredible and well worth the price. It’s very family friendly and each floor is bursting with fun filled spaces to explore.
When is the best time to visit Camera Obscura & World of Illusions (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Year-round wear layers—rooftop can be chilly in winter. Summer evenings mean longer daylight and shorter waits.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult tickets | GBP 47.9 |
| 1 Child ticket (5–15 yrs) | GBP 17.95 |
| Under-5 child ticket | GBP 0 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 65.85 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Address: 549 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND, UK
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About Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 131 226 370910 BEST nearby Activities
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