Grassmarket (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Grassmarket?
What makes it 67% Kids-Friendly: Children enjoy street performers, Saturday craft stalls, ice-cream at Mary’s Milk Bar and quick walks to the free Museum of Childhood, yet traffic, cobbles, scarce toilets and no playground mean close supervision is essential.
Positives:
- Family-friendly dining: Many restaurants around the square offer kids’ menus and highchairs.
- Easy transport links: Tram and bus stops are a short walk away for onward trips.
Challenges:
- Cobblestone ground: Uneven stones can be difficult with strollers; use a lightweight stroller.
- Limited seating: Outdoor benches fill up quickly; plan indoor stops for breaks.
- Weather exposure: There’s no cover in the square; pack coats or umbrellas on rainy days.
What is Grassmarket?
- A historic public square and sloping street in Edinburgh’s Old Town that served as a livestock and commodity market from the 15th to the 19th century
- Stone-built tenements and Georgian-era public houses forming a cohesive medieval streetscape beneath Edinburgh Castle
- A designated conservation zone within the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, preserving original cobbled surfaces and medieval street layout
What is so special about Grassmarket for with kids?
- Browse the weekend market for crafts and snacks in a historic square.
- Let kids run and picnic on open lawns with castle views.
- Sample unique gelato flavors at Mary’s Milk Bar.
- Discover the loyal story of Greyfriars Bobby at his statue and grave.
- Enjoy free hands-on play at the nearby Museum of Childhood.
Recommended visit duration: 1-3 hours
Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 1-3 hour visit lets your family enjoy key sights, snacks, and playtime without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Grassmarket
Grassmarket Market:
Browse stalls selling crafts, local treats and street food.
Tip: Visit Saturdays 10am–5pm and bring small change for purchases.
West Port Garden:
Play on the lawn and picnic under open skies with castle views.
Tip: Pack a picnic; arrive Sunday 2–4pm for live plant displays.
Mary’s Milk Bar:
Taste artisanal gelato in unusual flavors served in glassware.
Tip: Order two scoops each to sample more flavors and share.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue:
Find the loyal dog’s bronze statue and visit his grave.
Tip: Combine this stop with a quick walk through Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Museum of Childhood:
Explore historic toys and hands-on play areas for kids.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid school groups and enjoy quieter galleries.
When is the best time to visit Grassmarket (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
In summer, arrive before noon for outdoor seating. In winter, plan midday visits for warmer temps and pack rain gear. Check November–December for Christmas market stalls.
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Reviews of Grassmarket (Edinburgh)
anshu arora
Just love this beautiful flower corner of Grassmarket with the Castle View. Visited 1000s of times but still like to spend some quality time here.
Waqas Ali
Great place for food and amazing castle view. Very lively place with a great vibe.
Lauren Lang
Great place for food, drinks and to catch up with people. Beautiful view of the castle too
Konstantinos Barlas
A good place to have fun, eat, drink.
Buck List
I just love this part of Edinburgh plenty of food options, quirky shops vintage unique traditional. Definately the place to be.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Gelato at Mary’s Milk Bar | GBP 12 |
| Family lunch at Cold Town House | GBP 38 |
| Market snacks and crafts | GBP 20 |
| Public toilet fees | GBP 2 |
| Souvenirs | GBP 20 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 92 |
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
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Grassmarket
- Visit early: Arrive before 11am to beat crowds and secure picnic spots.
- Carry coins: Bring small change for toilets and market stalls.
- Combine nearby sites: Pair your visit with a quick trip to Edinburgh Castle or Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Map of Grassmarket
Address: Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1, UK
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