As any parent or guardian knows, keeping the kids entertained during the school holidays is a tricky business. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered here with some great ideas for family activities.
The school summer holidays means parents will be racking their brains for ways to keep the kids from driving them up the wall. But there are plenty of fun things to do in Edinburgh, even when the weather isn’t great.
Have a look through our photo gallery to see 10 top activities for families, according to TripAdvisor reviews.

9. The Real Mary King's Close
Where: 2 Warriston's Close, Edinburgh EH1 1PG. What: Opened in 2003, The Real Mary King’s Close is an award-winning five-star attraction located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. On a one-hour social history tour, guests explore this unique warren of hidden streets and spaces. Photo: Third Party

10. Palace of Holyroodhouse
Where: Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX. What: The King's official residence in Edinburgh and the home of Scottish royal history. Explore the Palace's close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how today it is used by The King when carrying out official engagements in Scotland. Photo: Third Party

11. St Giles' Cathedral
Where: High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE. What: St Giles’ Cathedral, founded in 1124 by King David I, has been a working church for almost 900 years. A backdrop to Scotland’s turbulent religious history, it has seen the seeds of civil war sown and been John Knox’s parish church during the Reformation. It is still an important centre for civic services such as the Kirking of the Parliament and services for Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle. St Giles’ Cathedral is open to all, to worship, to visit and to experience music, art and history within its walls. Photo: Peter Backhouse


