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United Kingdom/Things to Do in Edinburgh, with kids

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh?

88%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 88% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can run on lawns, spot frogs, and join free guided tours; cafés have kids’ meals and toilets, but unfenced ponds and no playground mean close supervision is needed.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 23,558 reviews)
Amazing... Light Show 🎄 Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh ll Scotland December 2024 #youtube #scotland
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Amazing... Light Show 🎄 Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh ll Scotland December 2024 #youtube #scotland
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Edinburgh's Stunning Botanic Gardens| Edinburgh Scotland Walking Tour | 4K
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NATURAL wonderland in the centre of EDINBURGH - Exploring the Royal Botanic Garden
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NATURAL wonderland in the centre of EDINBURGH - Exploring the Royal Botanic Garden
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Positives:

  • Free Entry: All garden areas are free to enter.
  • Stroller-Friendly: Most paths are flat tarmac, perfect for pushchairs.
  • Lots of Benches: Over 140 benches let kids rest regularly.

Challenges:

  • Weather Changes: Paths can get muddy after rain.
  • Seasonal Tours: Guided walks run only April–October.
  • Limited Shelter: Few indoor spots if the weather turns cold.
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🏖️ Explore Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh?

  • A 70-acre scientific garden comprising manicured landscapes, iconic glasshouses and themed rock, alpine and Chinese Hill collections
  • A global plant repository housing over 34,000 living specimens, each meticulously catalogued and labelled for research and education
  • A historic institution founded in 1670, advancing botanical science, conservation and horticultural innovation

What is so special about Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for with kids?

  1. Free entry across 70 acres of themed gardens for kids to roam
  2. Seasonal guided walks with free entry for children under 15
  3. Stroller-friendly paths, benches and accessible facilities
  4. Hands-on discovery zones like Rock Garden, Pond and Heather Garden
  5. Child-friendly cafés and picnic spots near Inverleith House

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for children to explore main gardens, join a guided walk, and take breaks without rushing

(View Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Rock Garden Exploration:

Kids can climb on rocky paths and discover alpine plants.

Tip: Watch for stepping stones and take photos at the mini waterfall.

Pond Wildlife Spotting:

Look for frogs, tadpoles and water lilies by the garden pond.

Tip: Bring a magnifying glass to see small creatures up close.

Daily Guided Walk:

Join the 11 am or 2 pm tour to learn garden stories.

Tip: Book tickets on arrival; kids under 15 join free.

Scottish Heather Garden Trail:

Explore native heather plants along gentle trails.

Tip: Visit in late summer for purple bloom and rest on nearby benches.

Lawns & Picnic Spots:

Spread a blanket under trees near Inverleith House for a snack.

Tip: Grab treats at the Terrace Café or pack your own lunch.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

  1. Arrive Early: Start at opening time to avoid crowds and secure bench spots.
  2. Pack a Picnic: Bring your own snacks to save time and money.
  3. Check Events Calendar: Look online for family workshops before your visit.
  4. Grab the Kids Trail Map: Pick up or download the trail map to guide little explorers.
🏖️ Tour Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

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Maria

Maria

Sep 2025

Serene and picturesque. Visiting family member loved the place. No ticket needed unless visiting the glasshouses which we didn't do, also lots of green for a cute picnic spot

Erika Dueñas

Erika Dueñas

Sep 2025

This is a completely free, large botanical garden that runs completely on donations. Their map costs £2, and i highly recommend utilizing it. Most paths here are wheelchair safe, those that aren't are clearly marked. There is a lot of walking involved with some hills - nothing too strenuous. I had a lot of fun looking at all the plants. It is beautifully landscaped. Their staff has done an incred...

Bhavesh Patel

Bhavesh Patel

Sep 2025

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is an absolutely beautiful place to visit – peaceful, well-kept, and full of stunning plants from all over the world. It’s perfect for a family day out, a relaxing walk, or just to enjoy nature in the city. Accessibility is very well thought through. There is dedicated disabled parking available, and the accessible entrance makes it easy for everyone to enjoy th...

cdakingtamudo

cdakingtamudo

Sep 2025

A serene botanical garden with an impressive collection of plant species, with rhododendrons among its highlights. You can explore its beautifully designed rock garden, wander through the glasshouses, or unwind at the on-site cafe. The grounds are meticulously cared for, creating a tranquil and inviting environment. Entrance is free and staff are very friendly

Sam

Sam

Aug 2025

Wonderful place the best garden I have been to. It friendly place. There are some hills but it quite easy to get up it. The terrace cafe at garden is good but has quite few options. It worth the visit. It good place to come with children. And adults and elderly people. I recommend it to anyone. And there is a cafe at one of the entrances they do good coffee and tea and cold drinks and they have ...

When is the best time to visit Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?

Spring brings colorful glasshouse blooms. Summer’s pond teems with tadpoles. Autumn shows fiery Arboretum leaves. Winter invites you into the warm Palm House.

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

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

ItemCost (Approx.)
Daily Guided Walks (2 adults)GBP 20
Lunch at Terrace CaféGBP 25
Snacks & drinksGBP 10
Total EstimatedGBP 55

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 Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Address: Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, UK

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (Edinburgh)?

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About Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

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

+44 131 248 2909

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