What makes it 88% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can dress up, press interactive buttons, join holiday workshops and see thousands of toys; free entry, toilets and lift make it an easy, high-value family outing.
Why 1-1.5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A short visit lets kids explore dress-up, play areas, and exhibits without tiring.
Dress-Up Play Area:
Try on Victorian and 20th-century costumes in a child-sized tee-pee.
Tip: Pick outfits that fit quickly and snap photos in the dressing area before moving on.
Interactive Toys Zone:
Play the player piano and handle models to connect with toy history.
Tip: Let each child choose a toy to try, and supervise younger ones around moving parts.
1930s Schoolroom Experience:
Sit in the recreated classroom and press the button to hear period chanting.
Tip: Have kids mimic the tables aloud for an immersive experience.
Film & Digital Photo Gallery:
View short films and compare family photos from different decades.
Tip: Discuss how childhood has changed to engage older kids in conversation.

Kalista Sky
The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh is free to enter, though you can always leave a donation. It’s spread across several floors with different toys to see. The place is interesting not only for children but also for adults and older visitors. Little ones can not only look at the exhibits but also interact with some of them. There’s also a short film about childhood in the 1930s–1960s, offering g...
H 999
The toy collection from olden days is charming and nostalgic. It’s free to enter and sits right in the heart of the city. Lovely little museum for families or anyone who enjoys childhood memories!
Fikha Rahmadina
I love coming to the Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh, it’s such a unique and nostalgic place. As someone from Indonesia, I was amazed to see so many toys and dolls I’ve never seen before. The collection is huge and full of charm, with items from different eras that really make you feel like you’re stepping into the past. It’s exciting to explore, and there’s so much to see, but I do feel like it’...
Asli
Small but a definitely enjoyful museum! The best part was surely the doll's room. I was surprised to see such different dolls together in one room haha The entrance with all those lovely messages about childhood times made me smile. You can definitely feel it is not just a combination of childhood related objects inside but an effort to make the experience the fullest with fine details considered ...
K. Peake
This museum is an absolute gem for a free visit, starting with info about the early stages of life that children experience! Details are taken in from the different eras of time for them, artefacts and culture of old schools are demonstrated even. Plenty of board and card games, alongside toys throughout periods of time are shown in a fascinating collection! Appreciate how they have small notable ...
During school holidays, book the magic workshops early online as they fill up fast. In winter, use your visit to escape the cold Royal Mile weather with indoor play.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Museum admission (family) | GBP 0 |
| Holiday magic workshop (per child) | GBP 10 |
| Souvenir from gift shop | GBP 10 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 30 |
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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Address: 42 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TG, UK
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Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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