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United Kingdom/Things to Do in Edinburgh, with kids

Festival Theatre (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Festival Theatre?

75%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 75% Kids-Friendly: Children aged 4-12 can attend pantomimes, puppet shows and tours, get concession fares and free ear defenders; however some operas have 8+ limits and no buggy parking, so advance planning is vital.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 3,958 reviews)

Positives:

  • Family-friendly pricing: Children under 16 pay lower ticket rates; babies up to 12 months sit free on panto shows.
  • Accessible facilities: Highchairs, baby-changing, water stations, and free ear defenders keep little ones comfortable.
  • Comfortable seating: Spacious legroom and good sightlines help kids stay settled during performances.

Challenges:

  • Age limits: Regular shows often admit ages 4+ only; check each show’s age policy before booking.
  • Pram storage: Strollers are not allowed in aisles. Fold and leave in foyer at your own risk or ask staff.
  • Noise levels: Some shows can be loud. Borrow free ear defenders early from the Merchandise Desk.
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🏖️ Explore Festival Theatre with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Festival Theatre. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Festival Theatre?

  • A Victorian theatre inaugurated in 1892, now seating approximately 1,900 across stalls, circle and balcony levels
  • Scotland’s largest proscenium stage dedicated to opera, ballet and touring theatrical productions under Capital Theatres management
  • A building that melds ornate plasterwork and art deco detailing with a contemporary glass façade

What is so special about Festival Theatre for with kids?

  1. Interactive backstage tours bring theatre magic to life for kids.
  2. Festive pantomime offers fun, music, and kid discounts in winter.
  3. Foyer photo walk showcases historic theatre art and architecture.
  4. Café and bars provide quick snacks and highchair seating.
  5. Free ear defenders and family facilities enhance comfort.
  6. Spacious seating and legroom keep younger children cozy.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets your family enjoy a tour, see a show, and grab snacks without rushing younger kids.

(View Festival Theatre on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Festival Theatre

Book a backstage tour:

Join a 2-hour tour and explore set pieces and costumes.

Tip: Book online in advance; children pay £12, adults £15; wear comfy shoes.

See the winter pantomime:

Watch “Jack and the Beanstalk” with kid-friendly humor and special effects.

Tip: Book early for child discounts and free babes-in-arms tickets for babies up to 12 months.

Self-guided foyer photo walk:

Spot theatre photos on each floor, glass entrance windows, and art-deco details.

Tip: Bring a camera; challenge kids to find the oldest photo on the walls.

Enjoy interval treats:

Grab ice-cream or soft drinks at the café and foyer bars.

Tip: Pre-order snacks before the show to skip the queue at intermission.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Festival Theatre

  1. Arrive early: Get in 30 minutes before showtime to sort pram storage and explore the foyer.
  2. Book matinees: Choose daytime performances for lower crowds and easier logistics with kids.
  3. Use online booking: Reserve best seats and grab child discounts before they sell out.
🏖️ Tour Festival Theatre like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Festival Theatre. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Festival Theatre

Powered by Google
Fee Fee

Fee Fee

Dec 2025

Really nice theatre, we've seen dozens of shows here and enjoyed every one of them. Having said that, during the last ballet we were at, others in the audience rustling sweet papers, and talking to their kids during the performance, were really irritating. We realise we were at a matinee show, but having paid £100+ for tickets, we really wanted to be entertained by those on the stage, not by some ...

Cindy Wigginton

Cindy Wigginton

Dec 2025

Saw The Snow Queen and it was wonderful! Absolutely loved the ballet, the sets, the costumes, all brilliant! The seats in the theatre are not particularly comfortable but it’s clean and the staff are always friendly!

Shona

Shona

Nov 2025

Fabulous evenings entertainment. Very helpful usher who went above and beyond expectations, great orchestra, powerfully evocative dancers flew across the stage gracefully. Well worth the trip.

Iain Banks

Iain Banks

Nov 2025

Saw Black Sabbath the Ballet here. Absolutely amazing, even from the upper circle. Being there was no problem for seeing the performance, and in some ways, it was the best view because the patterns made by the dancers were really clear

catcherry. x

catcherry. x

Jun 2025

Great theatre in the heart of Edinburgh. I watched The Funny Widow. I had never been to a theatre before where one can enjoy vegan ice cream whilst watching the spectacle! All in all a phenomenal experience! See you next time!

When is the best time to visit Festival Theatre (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?

Visit in winter for the festive pantomime (Nov–Jan). In summer, look for family matinees of touring musicals with special kids’ pricing.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Edinburgh on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Backstage tour for 2 adults + 2 kidsGBP 54
Pantomime tickets for 2 adults + 2 kidsGBP 110
Snacks & soft drinksGBP 12
Local transport day ticket for familyGBP 11
Total EstimatedGBP 187

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 Festival Theatre

Address: 13-29 Nicolson St, Edinburgh EH8 9FT, UK

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Festival Theatre (Edinburgh)?

← See other Things to Do in Edinburgh (with kids)

About Festival Theatre

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday:Closed

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+44 131 529 6000

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