Craigmillar Castle (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Craigmillar Castle?
What makes it 70% Kids-Friendly: Quiz trails, craft days and holiday shows suit ages up to 12, yet parents must watch children on high walls and uneven floors and bring food because no café or vending is provided.
Positives:
- On-site parking: Free car park near the visitor centre makes arrival easy.
- Spacious grounds: Wide open lawns give children room to run and play safely.
Challenges:
- No café on site: Bring snacks and drinks; the nearest café is a 10-minute drive away.
- Uneven surfaces: Wear sturdy shoes—stone floors and spiral stairs can be slippery.
What is Craigmillar Castle?
- A late-14th-century hilltop castle complex in southern Edinburgh featuring a central tower house and extensive curtain walls
- 16th-century expansions introduced a great hall, vaulted chambers and a fortified courtyard, showcasing evolving medieval architecture
- An exceptionally well-preserved example of Scottish defensive and residential design, with layered building phases tracing its historical development
What is so special about Craigmillar Castle for with kids?
- Self-guided tour with medieval rooms and tower climb
- Interactive kids’ quiz trail and vault-room games
- Free crafts on select days and seasonal family events
- Picnic-friendly park with plenty of space for children
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the self-guided tour, kids’ activities, and a picnic break in the park.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Craigmillar Castle
Self-guided castle tour:
Explore the great hall, battlements and tower house at your own pace.
Tip: Buy the online family ticket (£21.50) before you go to save time at the desk.
Kids’ quiz trail:
Pick up a free activity sheet at the ticket desk and hunt for hidden features.
Tip: Bring a pencil and reward the children with a treat when they finish.
Vault-room medieval games:
Play skittles and sticky darts in the ground-floor vaulted room.
Tip: Arrive early to ensure the games are set up and ready for play.
Crown-making craft station:
Let kids design their own crowns on select days in the courtyard.
Tip: Check the event calendar online or call ahead to confirm craft days.
Picnic in Craigmillar Castle Park:
Use the grassy lawns or picnic benches by the visitor centre.
Tip: Pack sandwiches and drinks since there is no on-site café.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Craigmillar Castle
- Buy tickets online: Secure the lower online family rate and skip the ticket queue.
- Download park map: Use the free orienteering map to turn your walk into a treasure hunt.
Reviews of Craigmillar Castle
Ilya
Stunning castle ruins. One of the best castles I've been to across the world, mostly because not much has been touched since it fell in ruin and none of the areas are blocked off or renovated. Don't expect anything special here, and honestly if you're in Edinburgh for a day or two there are plenty better places to see, but if you have the time it is definitely worth going for the ambiance of the ...
Chris King
If you want a hide castle away from the crowds this is the castle for you. Way cheaper place still all the history facts that come along with touring a castle from pre medieval times. Only complaint I would have is parking is very limited. The few up front parking spots are reserved for tour company’s. You’ll find parking along the street after you pass the entrance to the castle and make your fir...
Gillian Mac
Had a fantastic afternoon. I walked through Craigmllar park from bus as safer as no footpath on road. The walk through the fields and trees lovely. I followed path right around as only way to entrance. Proud climbed around roof! Wonderful views. Lots of curious stairways to explore and rooms, gardens and two fabulous old yes trees in middle of it. There was a room with art materials and games to...
Fel
A beautiful place to visit, fairly quiet and off the common trail hotspots in Edinburgh. I had an easy journey there via bus and a 10-15 minute walk. The castle ruins are fully explorable and climbable, and the views from the top are stunning. On a clear day, you can see right across the bay and the city. There's lovely old trees growing across the entrance and fascinating fine details in the ston...
Timo Heinonen
I visited the castle on a sunny morning, and it was an absolutely beautiful experience. I got a tip from a local dog walker to approach the castle through the meadows behind it, as it offers the best scenery, and that was so true. The castle itself offered some truly great views from its towers and wall walks. I spent a good couple of hours exploring the halls, chambers, vaults, and spiral stair...
When is the best time to visit Craigmillar Castle (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Spring: follow the Eggsplorer Easter trail for a chocolate prize. Summer: join free family workshops and games on 26 July. October: enjoy Halloween storytelling and live owls included in your ticket.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family ticket (2 adults + 2 kids) | GBP 21.5 |
| Craft materials donation | GBP 2 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 23.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Craigmillar Castle
Address: Craigmillar Castle Rd, Edinburgh EH16 4SY, UK
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About Craigmillar Castle
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
+44 131 661 4445Explore Popular Things to Do
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