While things are more normal than they’ve been for a while, the pandemic means this summer is still going to be unlike any other.
But this has meant that many popular places are now booked up for the whole season, with those left often charging astronomical prices.
Luckily Edinburgh is an amazing city, so even if you spend the summer at home with the kids (the original meaning of the word ‘staycation’) there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Here are 11 fun activities to entertain the whole family for a few hours.
A message from the Editor:
Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by Coronavirus impacts our advertisers.
If you haven't already, please consider supporting our trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription.
1. Stage a great escape
Escape rooms have been growing in popularity for a few years. The idea is simple - a group are locked in a room and need to solve a series of fun clues in a set time to escape. Escape Reality Edinburgh in Fountainbridge have six different rooms to tackle, suitable for ages 9 and over, from fleeing a tropical jungle to escaping vicious pirates. Visit their website at www.escapereality.com/escape-rooms-uk/edinburgh/. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
2. Go on a treasure hunt
Grab an exciting treasure map and let the clues lead you and your family on a fun tour of Edinburgh, taking in lots of the city's landmarks and completing challenges on the way. Website www.huntfun.co.uk have a variety of maps to download and certificates to print on completion. You might like to provide the treasure to give your children a little extra motivation though. The hunts take around two hours to complete. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
3. See what a million pounds looks like...for free
The Museum on the Mound recently reopened post-lockdown and is now welcoming visitors who can see what a million pounds looks like, try to crack a safe, see Scotland's oldest banknote, and learn lots of fascinating facts about money in Scotland. It's free and no advance booking is required - although there is a limit on how many people are allowed in at any one time. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
4. Meet an alpaca called Kiwi
Kiwi the alpaca is just one of the many animals you can meet at Gorgie City Farm. There's plenty to keep kids and adults occupied for a few hours at the farm and entry is free (although donations are welcome). Photo: Canva/Getty Images