Museum of Childhood, Edinburgh
Explore the world’s first museum dedicated to childhood, where nostalgia meets interactive play on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh, the world's first museum dedicated to childhood history, showcases an extensive collection of toys, games, and memorabilia from the 18th century to today. Located on the Royal Mile, it offers nostalgic exhibits for adults and interactive play areas for children, all within a free-admission setting that celebrates the evolving experience of growing up.
A brief summary to Museum of Childhood
- 42 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1TG, GB
- +441315294142
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Plan for a visit lasting 1 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits and interactive zones.
- Admission is free, but consider making a donation to support the museum’s preservation efforts.
- Children will particularly enjoy the dressing-up area and puppet theatre for hands-on fun.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible with lifts and ramps, but there is no café on site.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions on the Royal Mile for a full day of Edinburgh history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36, which run frequently from central Edinburgh to the Royal Mile area; journey times range from 15 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost approximately £1.80–£2.00 for a single adult fare. Buses stop within a short walk of the museum.
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Tram and Walking
Use the Edinburgh Tram to Princes Street, then enjoy a 15-minute walk down the historic Royal Mile to the museum. The tram fare is around £6 for a single adult ticket. The walk is mostly flat but may be challenging for those with limited mobility due to cobbled streets.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can deliver you directly to 42 High Street. Typical journey times from Edinburgh Waverley Station are 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares between £5 and £10.
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Walking
If you are already in Edinburgh’s Old Town or near the Royal Mile, walking to the museum is a pleasant option. The terrain includes some cobblestones and gentle slopes, suitable for most visitors. Walking times vary but typically range from 5 to 20 minutes from nearby landmarks.
Museum of Childhood location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Museum of Childhood
A Pioneer in Childhood Heritage
Established in 1955, Edinburgh's Museum of Childhood holds the distinction of being the first museum worldwide dedicated solely to the history of childhood. Its founding mission was to preserve and celebrate the myriad ways children have played, learned, and grown through the centuries. Over time, the museum has amassed a rich and diverse collection that extends beyond toys to include clothing, books, games, and photographs, offering a comprehensive glimpse into childhood across eras.Timeless Treasures and Iconic Exhibits
Visitors can explore a vast array of artifacts, from the oldest toy—a rare wooden Queen Anne doll dating back to around 1740—to beloved 20th-century items like the Raleigh Chopper bicycle and Peter Rabbit soft toy. The museum also houses poignant historical pieces such as the Kindertransport bear, a Steiff teddy that symbolizes the rescue of Jewish children during World War II. The Stanbrig Eorls dollhouse, with its 19 rooms, electric lighting, and running water, exemplifies the intricate craftsmanship and imagination captured in childhood playthings.Immersive Zones and Interactive Play
The museum offers engaging zones dedicated to home life, school, and play, designed to immerse visitors in the evolving environments of childhood. Children can enjoy hands-on experiences like dressing up in costumes, participating in puppet theatre, and exploring a recreated Victorian street complete with vintage outdoor toys. These interactive elements make the museum a lively space for families, encouraging imaginative play alongside historical discovery.Architectural and Cultural Setting
Situated on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at 42 High Street, the museum occupies a charming location that complements its nostalgic collections. The building itself is accessible, featuring lifts and ramps to accommodate wheelchair users. Although the museum's interior design leans toward a traditional style, its colorful and varied exhibits create an inviting atmosphere that appeals to visitors of all ages.Community and Educational Impact
Beyond its role as a tourist attraction, the Museum of Childhood serves as an educational resource, highlighting the social and cultural history of childhood in Britain. It preserves stories of past generations, fostering understanding and connection between children and adults. The museum also supports local engagement through events and themed activities, making it a valued cultural institution within Edinburgh.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Admission to the museum is free, with donations welcomed to support its ongoing work. It is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with last entry at 4:30 pm, except on Sundays when it opens at noon. Facilities include restrooms, a gift shop, and wheelchair access, though there is no on-site café. The museum’s location near other historic sites on the Royal Mile makes it an excellent addition to a day exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wellhead at John Knox House
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Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
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Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
124 High St
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Museum Context
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Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
The High Street Wellhead
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
North Bridge
0.3 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Adam Smith Statue
0.3 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Barrie's Close
0.3 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Mercat Cross
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Jacob's Ladder
0.3 km
A historic and steep stone staircase linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, offering panoramic city views and a challenging climb.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.3 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.3 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Unmissable attractions to see
John Knox House
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The world's first purpose-built storytelling centre, blending 15th-century history with contemporary performance on Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
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Discover Edinburgh’s intimate museum exploring the rich history and practices of magic, witchcraft, and fortune-telling in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
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Discover Scotland’s rich storytelling heritage in Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural hub blending medieval charm with contemporary arts.
The World's End
0.1 km
A snug, centuries‑stitched Royal Mile pub where Flodden Wall stone, local ales and hearty Scottish plates meet old‑town atmosphere.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.1 km
Discover the heart of Edinburgh's culinary scene at the Royal Mile Tavern, a must-visit pub offering local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
Little Fish Tours
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh like never before with Little Fish Tours, where local insights meet unforgettable adventures in Scotland's enchanting capital.
The Chocolatarium
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s interactive chocolate micro-factory where you craft, taste, and discover over 40 artisan chocolates in a historic Old Town setting.
St. Patrick
0.1 km
Historic Catholic church in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending neoclassical architecture with deep Irish community roots and serene spiritual ambiance.
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier gin destination with immersive tours, bespoke blends, and stunning city views at The Arches.
Tron Kirk Market
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, now a museum of historic instruments and intimate live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Hunter Square
0.2 km
Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
Royal Mile
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
Auld Reekie Tours
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Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults and graveyards with award-winning, immersive guided tours blending history, mystery, and spine-tingling tales.
City of Edinburgh Tours
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground and historic Old Town with immersive ghost and history tours from the iconic Old Police Box.
Essential places to dine
Monteiths
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Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.1 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Garrigue
0.1 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.1 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Piper's Rest
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.2 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Ecco Vino
0.3 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Tolbooth Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.4 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Devil's Advocate
0.4 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Number One
0.4 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Howies Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Twenty Princes Street
0.5 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Duck & Waffle
0.5 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
The Cellar Door
0.5 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Wee Gift Shop
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Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
Heritage Clearance Store
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Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Real Scot Shop
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Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
scottish experience cashmere place
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Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Ragamuffin
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Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Scotland Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Crest Of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.2 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Galaxy
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Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Fringe Shop
0.3 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.3 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Pure Scottish
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Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
The Wyrd Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
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Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Cocktail Geeks
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Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
The Banshee Labyrinth
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Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Copper Still
0.2 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Captain's Bar
0.4 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The Three Sisters
0.4 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Cask
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Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.5 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
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Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
The Voodoo Rooms
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Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Frankenstein
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Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
0.5 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Jolly Judge
0.5 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.1 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.2 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Garibaldi's
0.9 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Opal Lounge
0.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.0 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.3 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
