John Knox House preserved medieval house (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is John Knox House preserved medieval house?
What makes it 61% Kids-Friendly: Cheap child ticket and devil-hunt game engage readers 7 +, yet narrow stairs, breakable displays and mostly text panels may frustrate younger or very active kids.
Positives:
- Engaging for older kids: Audio guide and treasure hunt keep 7–12-year-olds interested.
- Accessible ground floor: Level entry and wide spaces welcome strollers and wheelchairs.
Challenges:
- Narrow staircases: Upper floors are only reachable by stairs, no stroller access.
- Small rooms: Exhibit rooms can become crowded, limiting free movement.
What is John Knox House preserved medieval house?
- A late 15th-century stone townhouse on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile that served as the residence of John Knox, leader of the Scottish Reformation
- A rare example of medieval Scottish domestic architecture, featuring original timber galleries, stone vaulting and a hand-painted oak ceiling
- A nationally protected heritage building housing authentic 16th-century manuscripts, personal letters and period household furnishings
What is so special about John Knox House preserved medieval house for with kids?
- Turn the visit into a medieval scavenger hunt for kids
- Explore original 15th-century interiors with audio storytelling
- Snap family photos under the carved façade on High Street
- Enjoy free Wi-Fi and a treat in the onsite café
- Accessible ground-floor makes strollers welcome
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: The house is small and kids may tire; 1–2 hours lets you explore exhibits, do a scavenger hunt, and enjoy the café.
Kids-Friendly Activities in John Knox House preserved medieval house
Medieval Scavenger Hunt:
Find the carved devil, hidden time capsule and portrait puzzle panels.
Tip: Pick up the free printed guide at Reception and give kids prizes for each find.
Interactive Audio Guide:
Use the free audio device to hear 16th-century stories room by room.
Tip: Let older kids hold the guide and lead the tour for the family.
Façade Photo Op:
Pose under the 15th-century carved initials and bay window.
Tip: Visit mid-morning for the best natural light on the High Street.
Café Treat and Storybook:
Reward detective work with cake in the Storytelling Café or pick a storybook in the shop.
Tip: Use your house ticket for free entry to the café area.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to John Knox House preserved medieval house
- Visit early: Get there at 10 am to enjoy quieter galleries before peak on the Royal Mile.
- Download guide: Download the illustrated guide in advance to skip the queue at Reception.
Reviews of John Knox House preserved medieval house
Rasha Ripy
Worth a visit! A lot of beautiful books and a lot to learn about the history!
SephiMasamune
Interesting but rather small location, a lot of artifacts too look at and the Dutch Delft’s Blue fireplace was a nice surprise. Worth a quick stop if you have 30-45 minutes to spare.
Patrick Beard
If you are interested in history, particularly the Reformation, you'll love it! Wasn't crowded at all and the little cafe downstairs is nice.
Shelley C
It was pouring with rain, so I decided to visit the John Knox House to dry out. I am glad I did as it exceeded my expectations. The Mosman family owned the property during Mary Queen of Scots rule. You learn about their lives and their interactions with John Knox, who lived at the house for a few months. There were lots of interesting artifacts. The information provided was informative. It is wort...
Paulina Luengo
The oldest, original medieval building surviving on the Royal Mile. There is so much history to see in 3 stories built for just £7 a ticket. Highly recommended
When is the best time to visit John Knox House preserved medieval house (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
In summer, arrive at opening to avoid Royal Mile crowds. In winter, warm up with hot chocolate in the café between rooms.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2 x £7) | GBP 14 |
| Child ticket (7–12 yrs) | GBP 1.5 |
| Café treats | GBP 10 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 25.5 |
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 John Knox House preserved medieval house
Address: 43-45 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SR, UK
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides John Knox House preserved medieval house (Edinburgh)?
About John Knox House preserved medieval house
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
+44 131 556 9579Explore Popular Things to Do
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!