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United Kingdom/Things to Do in Edinburgh, with kids

National Museum of Scotland (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is National Museum of Scotland?

95%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Kids under 12 thrive in Imagine, Explore and Adventure Planet, with hands-on science, dressing-up and craft Fridays; plentiful toilets, lifts and benches back up a long playful visit.

Google
Reviews4.8/ 5
(from 53,890 reviews)
My ultimate guide to the NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND, Edinburgh!
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My ultimate guide to the NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND, Edinburgh!
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Positives:

  • Free Admission: Permanent galleries and family exhibits have no entry fee.
  • Kid-Friendly Facilities: Free lockers, baby-change rooms and sensory backpack loans.

Challenges:

  • Crowded Galleries: Interactive zones can get busy at peak times.
  • Stair Access: Some areas have stairs; lifts can be slow during rush.
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What is National Museum of Scotland?

  • A national museum in Edinburgh housing Scotland’s collections of art, archaeology, natural history and technological innovation
  • Home to millions of objects ranging from prehistoric fossils and Egyptian mummies to industrial machinery and contemporary design
  • Set within a fusion of restored Victorian sandstone wings and a soaring modern Grand Gallery under a glass roof

What is so special about National Museum of Scotland for with kids?

  1. Free hands-on galleries perfect for ages 3–12
  2. Colourful sensory play spaces in the Imagine Gallery
  3. Interactive science games like submersible drives and dino digs
  4. Weekly and summer drop-in craft sessions for creative fun
  5. Family facilities include lockers, cafés and sensory backpacks

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 2-3 hours lets your family explore the key interactive galleries and enjoy a café break without rushing.

(View National Museum of Scotland on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in National Museum of Scotland

Imagine Gallery (Level 1):

Let kids dress up, make sounds and enjoy story corners in a colourful sensory space.

Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and let children explore freely.

Adventure Planet (Level 5):

Drive a mini submersible, dig for dinosaur bones and learn about conservation.

Tip: Check the lift by the Kingdom of the Scots gallery for quick access.

Explore Gallery (Level 1):

Try hands-on science experiments and puzzles on engineering and physics.

Tip: Pick up a free activity sheet from the info desk to guide the kids.

When is the best time to visit National Museum of Scotland (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?

During summer school holidays check Summer Family Fun sessions (Jul 7–Aug 1) for themed drop-in crafts. In term-time, join Find Out Fridays (Fri 1:30–4 pm) free activities on Level 4.

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

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Reviews of National Museum of Scotland (Edinburgh)

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Nida Shamim

Nida Shamim

Sep 2025

The best museum you ll ever visit. Kids love it. There is so much to see there. It’s FREE to enter. Quite remarkable! Loved the interactive space for kids there. You can easily spend 3-4 hours there.

Walter Dinda (Walt)

Walter Dinda (Walt)

Sep 2025

Incredible 7 story Museum. It is free to visit! You must go to the 7th floor roof for the panoramic view! There is a large clock made by a Russian that you must observe on the hour every hour! The clock comes alive with moving parts! The building itself is beautiful.

Elizabeth Davies

Elizabeth Davies

Aug 2025

Me and my mate visited here in late August and had an enjoyable time, yet a handful of things left me with a slight bittersweet experience. The Pros ✅ - The exhibitions and displays are arranged in a very eye catching and awe inspiring way 🤩. It really gives you that feeling of wonder and wanting to learn and understand more🤓. The height of the building really gives these spaces an advantage, a...

Bram Slijpen

Bram Slijpen

Aug 2025

This year, we visited the National Museum for the second time. And once again, it was a wonderful experience. The building is beautiful and all the exhibitions are meticulously curated. This time, we also visited the roof terrace, which offers a stunning view of Edinburgh. It's hard to believe that this museum is free. It's definitely a must-see when visiting Edinburgh.

DENNY JAMES ALUKKA

DENNY JAMES ALUKKA

Jul 2025

The National Museum of Scotland is absolutely fantastic! The building itself is stunning, and inside there is so much to explore. From ancient history and dinosaurs to science, fashion, and technology, there’s something for everyone. The layout is easy to follow, and every section is full of fascinating displays. I especially enjoyed how interactive it is – perfect for both adults and children. Y...

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

ItemCost (Approx.)
Museum lockersGBP 3
Lunch at Balcony CaféGBP 40
SouvenirsGBP 20
Total EstimatedGBP 63

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 National Museum of Scotland

  1. Borrow a Sensory Backpack: Ask at any info desk for ear defenders and fidget toys.
  2. Use Mobile Wi-Fi: Connect to free museum Wi-Fi to download audio guides on Smartify.
  3. Elevator Shortcut: Use the Terrace Lift near Kingdom of the Scots to reach Level 5 quickly.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Edinburgh attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of National Museum of Scotland

Address: Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, UK

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Looking for other Things to Do besides National Museum of Scotland (Edinburgh)?

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About National Museum of Scotland

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

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

+44 300 123 6789

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