Scottish Parliament Building (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Scottish Parliament Building?
What makes it 72% Baby-Friendly: A free on-site crèche, baby-changing stations and pram-friendly routes support carers, yet long debates and guided tours demand silence and make the outing harder if the infant becomes restless.
Positives:
- Free Entry: All public areas, crèche, talks, and facilities are complimentary.
- Pram Accessibility: Wide corridors, ramps, and lifts allow easy movement with a stroller.
Challenges:
- Limited Crèche Hours: Creche is only open Tuesdays–Thursdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
- No Dedicated Nursing Room: Use accessible toilets or café seating for feeding unless you request a quiet corner.
What is Scottish Parliament Building?
- A modern parliamentary complex serving as the purpose-built home of Scotland’s devolved legislature
- Designed by Catalan architect Enric Miralles, the structure weaves fluid curves of steel, glass and oak with rugged sandstone to echo the nation’s landscape
- Set at the foot of the Royal Mile within Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage site, the building integrates debating chambers, committee rooms and public spaces around a central garden and plaza
What is so special about Scottish Parliament Building for with baby?
- Free crèche and stroller-friendly routes
- Accessible changing and feeding facilities
- Short 10-minute talks for quick breaks
- Spacious Main Hall and café highchairs for snacks
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Includes a self-guided tour, short talks, and time for crèche drop-off and baby breaks.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Scottish Parliament Building
On-site Crèche:
Free childcare for babies aged 6 weeks to 5 years on Tuesdays–Thursdays.
Tip: Pre-book by phone or drop in early to secure a spot.
Pram-Friendly Self-Guided Tour:
Pick up a free map and follow the flat stroller route through public areas.
Tip: Download the map before arrival and use lockers for extra bags.
Baby-Changing & Feeding Facilities:
Accessible toilets with a hoist, bench, and private feeding spaces.
Tip: Ask Visitor Services for the nearest Changing Places room on arrival.
10-Minute Drop-In Talks:
Short talks on how laws are made and building design.
Tip: Attend between feedings for a quick break while baby naps.
Main Hall & Café Break:
Highchairs in the café and benches in the Main Hall for snacks.
Tip: Bring light snacks to picnic in the Main Hall and avoid café queues.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Scottish Parliament Building
- Book Crèche Slot Early: Call ahead or arrive first thing to reserve the free crèche place.
- Download Visitor Map: Get the pram-friendly route and exhibit info before you arrive online.
- Pack Light Snacks: Use Main Hall benches for a picnic to avoid café wait times.
Reviews of Scottish Parliament Building
Irfan Mohammed
Amazing visit, beautiful building, chance to sit in chamber for a session during the visit too. The staff were lovely and accommodating which made it a memorable visit
Yasir SYA
It is surprisingly for an Indian to go so easily inside a parliament. It is almost impossible to do so in India. More than that they also allow free tours and children craft activities
Shane McDonald
If you’re in Scotland, you have to come and see this amazing building and experience what the parliament does in Scotland. We had a really interesting talk by one of the guides who told us all about departments and the history about it and how this new amazing building has come to be since 1999. Just so much to do here.
Fiona Robertson
Book ahead for a tour and pick up some great info in 45 mins. Tour isn't needed though as you can walk around but nice to get into the 'well' of the debating chamber and up close to the mace.
Alan Holt
Took a guided tour around the building. Be aware you will have to go through a full security check before entering the building, but the staff make it easy and less painful than an airport. The staff at the entrance were welcoming, really nice, friendly and helpful, the tour guide was informative and engaging answering the many questions and making sure everyone on the tour was heard and saw ever...
When is the best time to visit Scottish Parliament Building (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Check the parliamentary recess calendar: some tours and events pause during summer (July) and winter (Dec–Jan), but crèche and facilities usually stay open.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parliament Café snack or drink | GBP 5 |
| Optional souvenir from shop | GBP 10 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 15 |
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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Map of Scottish Parliament Building
Address: Horse Wynd, Edinburgh EH99 1SP, UK
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About Scottish Parliament Building
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
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+44 131 348 500010 BEST nearby Activities
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