The next half-term school holidays are just around the corner, and Scotland’s capital has plenty of activities that are fun, engaging, and educational for kids of all ages. From acclaimed theatre shows and the late Queen’s official yacht to a spooky dungeon, what kid would not find that interesting? With our award-winning trams serving so many key locations across the city centre and beyond, we have compiled our ultimate top five list of family activities to enjoy over the February break, as well as their closest tram stops.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
549 Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND
Closest tram stop: Princes Street
With five floors and over 100 interactive, hands-on exhibits, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions have something fun to entertain all ages. You’re in for a chance to tour Edinburgh’s streets without moving while testing your brain against mind-bending illusions. You can also take spectacular cityscape photographs from their Rooftop Terrace as part of the experience.
Situated just a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle, at the top of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, why not visit the first ever purpose-built visitor attraction in the city and see history and modern marvels together under one roof?
Ocean Dr, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ
Closest tram stop: Ocean Terminal
Britannia was the first, and indeed the last, truly global Royal Yacht. Wherever in the world the Yacht went, a little bit of Britain went too. As well as her formal role, as the monarch’s floating palace and British Ambassador, Britannia allowed the Royal Family some rare privacy away from their public duties and was famously described by Queen Elizabeth II as “the one place I can truly relax”.
This February holidays, families can explore all five decks with a free audio guide, including a children’s version to keep the little ones entertained. Remember to spot the corgis in their Cuddly Corgi Treasure Hunt!
18-22 Greenside Pl, Edinburgh, EH1 3AA
Closest tram stop: Picardy Place
Firmly established in the cultural landscape of Edinburgh and Scotland, the Edinburgh Playhouse is the UK’s largest all-seated theatre and plays a host to some of the biggest names in live music, comedy, and musical theatre.
During this half-term school break families can enjoy one of the world’s most beloved musicals, The Wizard of Oz. This show features the iconic original score from the Oscar-winning MGM film including ‘Over The Rainbow’, ‘Follow The Yellow Brick Road’ and ‘We’re Off To See The Wizard’ with additional songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.
Edinburgh’s Old Town
Closest tram stop: Princes Street
Grab a wand and join the robed guide on the original tour of Edinburgh designed especially for Potter fans! You’ll discover the magical locations that inspired characters and scenes in the series, visit the places where JK Rowling wrote the books, and even learn a spell or two along the way.
Even if you’re not a Harry fan, there’s still plenty to entertain you on this lively and atmospheric tour, full of colourful characters from Edinburgh’s mysterious past. Muggles welcome!
10% off private tours through edinburghticket.com
31 Market Place, Edinburgh, EH1 1DF
Closest tram stop: St Andrew Square
The Edinburgh Dungeon is the ultimate underground journey through the city’s darkest history, using live actors, theatrical sets and thrilling rides. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of Scotland’s grim history during an 80-minute tour that leads you into the heart of Scotland’s spookiest eras. Parents and children will find the tour both hilarious and terrifying all at once!
20% off tickets through edinburghticket.com
Families travelling together into town during the February break can make the most of Edinburgh Trams’ popular ‘Family Day Tripper’ ticket, which only costs £8 and allows unlimited travel within the City Zone for up to two adults and three children under 16s. What’s more, tickets purchased from edinburghticket.com offer money-saving discounts from a range of businesses and attractions, including The Edinburgh Dungeon and The Potter Trail.
