Are you looking for free activities in Edinburgh for under 5s? Look no further! Spring is the perfect time to explore the city with your little ones and take advantage of all the outdoor activities that Edinburgh has to offer. From picnics in Princes Street Gardens to interactive playtime in the Meadows, there's something for everyone. Here are 10 free activities in Edinburgh for under 5s that you won't want to miss!
1)The Meadows
The Meadows is a large public park located in the heart of Edinburgh and it's the perfect place to take your under 5s for a day of fun and exploration. Located in Midlothian, this child-friendly park is a great spot to spend the day on a budget and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. There's plenty to do in the Meadows to keep your kids entertained. There are grassy areas for running around, play areas, and various spots for picnics. If you're looking for more structured activities, there are several organized sports and games for kids to enjoy. The Meadows is an excellent spot for some family-friendly fun and activities in Edinburgh.
2)Dean Village
Dean Village is the perfect destination for a child-friendly day out in Edinburgh. Located just west of the city center, this charming area is home to a series of historic buildings and monuments that date back to the 12th century. The village also provides access to the Water of Leith, a large river running through the city, and visitors may spot some otters while they explore.
This area offers plenty of kid-friendly activities. The Dean Village Children's Garden is the perfect place to let kids explore and play with different plants and nature-inspired art installations. Additionally, there are several playgrounds and splash pads throughout the area, as well as a small picnic area with benches. There are also several cafes and restaurants nearby that offer kid-friendly meals and treats.
Overall, Dean Village is an ideal place to spend an afternoon with your little ones in Edinburgh. With plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, playing, and exploring, it's sure to keep your kids entertained for hours.
3) The Water of Leith One of the best places to enjoy a child-friendly day out in Edinburgh is the Water of Leith. The 12-mile river, which runs through the heart of the city, is full of wildlife, beautiful scenery and plenty of kid's stuff. It's an ideal spot for exploring with little ones, as there are plenty of spots to stop and admire the views along the route.
You can start your journey at the Visitor Center, located in Balerno. Here you'll find information about the river and its wildlife, as well as a café and a gift shop. The center also has interactive exhibits that explain how the river works and why it's important for local wildlife.
If you venture further along the path, you may even spot some otters or kingfishers – both of which are native to the river. For more close-up encounters, head to one of the viewing platforms located along the banks. These are great spots for spotting birds, fish and other animals that inhabit the area.
There are plenty of other child-friendly activities to enjoy here too, such as rowing boats, cycling, walking and exploring some of the nearby woodland areas. With so much to do, the Water of Leith is the perfect place to spend a day with the kids.
4) Princes Street Gardens
Located right in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre, Princes Street Gardens is an ideal spot for families with under 5s. The gardens are filled with lush greenery, and the beautifully restored Ross fountain. As you explore, be sure to take in the beautiful views of the historic Edinburgh Castle that can be seen from the gardens.
When hunger strikes, there are several child-friendly cafes dotted around the gardens that offer a range of refreshments and snacks. Kids will also love the playground located near the East Princes Street Gardens, offering plenty of activities that are sure to keep them busy.
With so much to see and do in Princes Street Gardens, it’s easy to understand why this area of Edinburgh is so popular with families and under 5s!
5) Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park is one of the most beautiful and exciting places to visit in Edinburgh with under 5s. It is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. With stunning views over the city, a children's playground and even a secret garden, it’s the perfect spot for a day out with the kids.
When visiting Holyrood Park, take your little ones on a walk around the grounds and allow them to take in the gorgeous views of Arthur’s Seat, Salisbury Crags and St. Anthony’s Chapel. Your little ones will love exploring the area and discovering all the different plants and animals that live in the park. Or why not go for a stroll around St. Margaret's Loch, where you can find plenty of ducks and geese as well as other wildlife such as rabbits, squirrels and sometimes even deer!
The views from Holyrood Park are some of the best in Edinburgh and can provide hours of entertainment for all ages. Enjoy your visit and let your little ones explore all the wonders that Holyrood Park has to offer!
