Scottish school holidays: 11 free and fun summer activities to do in Edinburgh
The summer holidays can be an expensive time, as children (and their parents) look for ways to fill their spare time.
With foreign jaunts still looking unlikely, many of us are staying at home this year – making it even more important to find ways to keep young minds and bodies active.
Luckily for Edinburgh residents, there are a range of fun and interesting activites available for kids to enjoy without having to raid the piggy bank.
Here are 11 Edinburgh freebies your children can enjoy this summer.
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Luckily for Edinburgh residents, there are a range of fun and interesting activites available for kids to enjoy without having to raid the piggy bank.
5. Read all about it
This summer Edinburgh libraries are inviting children to become 'Wild World Heroes' by signing up to their Summer Reading Challenge. Borrow and read six library books, e-books or audiobooks over the holidays. For every two books you read you’ll receive a special reward, and once you’ve read all six you’ll get a medal and certificate. Sign up by July 19 and you'll also be entered into a prize draw. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Experience the science of the botanics
Edinburgh's lush Royal Botanic Gardens have now reopened to advance bookings and have teamed up with the Edinburgh Science Festival to offer a series of events, exhibitions and activities taking place until July 11. There also a free family trail for young adventurers to enjoy. Check out all the events at www.rbge.org.uk. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Enjoy some park life
Designed for children from p7-s6, Park Life has been organised by Edinburgh City Council and offers a variety of fun and interesting weekly activities including parkour, touch rugby , bike obstacle courses, drumming, karate, street art, ultimate frisbee, and circus skills. It takes place at 2pm each week, on Tuesdays at Gyle Park, Wednesdays at Clermiston Park, and Thursdays at Burgess Park. Visit www.joininedinburgh.org to book. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Encounter some famous graves
Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of the most famous graveyards in the world. Enjoy a wander around the atmospheric cemetery and see what famous names you can spot - including loyal wee Greyfriars Bobby, terrible poet William McGonagall and, for Harry Potter fans, the real Tom Riddell. Photo: Canva/Getty Images