Museum of Childhood, Edinburgh

4.3 (1931)

Step into the world’s first museum dedicated to childhood, where toys and memories from centuries past come alive on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.

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Museum of Childhood

Located on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, the Museum of Childhood is the world’s first museum dedicated exclusively to the history of childhood. It showcases an extensive collection of toys, games, clothing, and memorabilia from the 18th century to the present, offering a nostalgic journey through childhood experiences across generations. The museum features interactive zones, including a puppet theatre and dressing-up area, making it a captivating visit for families and adults alike.

A brief summary to Museum of Childhood

42 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1TG, GB
Click to display
Click to display
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Free
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Plan to spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits and interactive zones for a full experience.
Visit the dressing-up area and puppet theatre for hands-on fun, especially enjoyable for children.
Look out for the rare Queen Anne doll and the Kindertransport bear, two of the museum’s most significant artifacts.
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the museum’s collection.

Getting There

Bus

Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 towards the Royal Mile; the journey from Edinburgh city center typically takes 10-15 minutes. Services run frequently throughout the day with single fares around £1.80. The stop is a short walk from the museum entrance.
Walking

From Edinburgh Waverley Station, a 15-minute walk along the historic Royal Mile brings you directly to the Museum of Childhood. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchair users, with pedestrian crossings and paved sidewalks.
Taxi

A taxi ride from Edinburgh city center to the museum takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi fares typically range from £6 to £10. Taxis are wheelchair accessible but availability may vary.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Information Boards
Visitor Center
Seating Areas
Trash Bins

Museum of Childhood location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Museum of Childhood

A Pioneering Tribute to Childhood

The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh holds the distinction of being the first museum in the world devoted solely to childhood history, opening its doors in 1955. Founded by toy enthusiast Patrick Murray, it has grown into a rich repository of childhood artifacts spanning over two centuries. The museum’s collection includes toys, games, dolls, books, clothing, and photographs that document the evolving experiences of children from the 18th century onwards.

Timeless Treasures and Iconic Exhibits

Among the museum’s standout pieces is the rare wooden Queen Anne doll dating from around 1740, the oldest toy in the collection. Visitors can also admire the Stanbrig Eorls dolls’ house, featuring 19 rooms equipped with electric lighting and running water, and the Kindertransport bear—a poignant teddy bear that escaped Nazi-occupied Vienna in 1939. Other highlights include a Raleigh Chopper bicycle from the 1970s and early 20th-century Peter Rabbit soft toys, illustrating the long-standing cultural impact of children’s characters.

Immersive and Interactive Experiences

The museum offers hands-on activities designed to engage children and adults alike. The ground floor has been transformed into interactive zones themed around home, school, and play. Children can enjoy dressing up in period costumes, exploring a puppet theatre, and discovering vintage toys. The recreated Victorian street scene and sounds of a 1930s schoolroom further immerse visitors in the historical context of childhood.

Exploring Childhood Through Social History

Beyond toys, the museum explores broader aspects of growing up, including school life, health, clothing, and leisure activities. Exhibits reveal how childhood routines and pastimes have changed over time, providing educational insights alongside nostalgia. The photographic archive and costume collection deepen understanding of children’s lives in different eras, making the museum a valuable cultural heritage site.

Welcoming All Generations

While children delight in the playful exhibits, adults find joy in revisiting the toys and games of their youth, creating a shared experience across generations. The museum’s free admission policy encourages families and visitors from all backgrounds to explore and reflect on the universal themes of childhood. Its location on the Royal Mile situates it within Edinburgh’s vibrant historic heart, adding to its appeal.

Practical Details for Visitors

Open daily from 10am to 5pm (with slightly reduced hours on Sundays), the museum is wheelchair accessible, with lifts and ramps facilitating access to most areas. Facilities include restrooms and a museum shop, though there is no café on site. Donations are welcomed to support the museum’s ongoing work preserving childhood heritage.