Edinburgh in any season is beautiful, but particularly so in autumn. Let’s look at some autumn activities in Edinburgh for all the family in the city that Edinburgh Self Storage is proud to call home. And did you know that we’re now in two locations – Jenners Depository and Bonnington Road!
Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat
Autumn is arguably one of the best times to visit Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh’s extinct volcano. The park’s autumnal colours provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Climbing Arthur’s Seat if you’re a family with older children is a fun thing to do. The panoramic views of the city from the top make the moderate hike worth it, even if there are a few moans and groans on the way up.
Not far away, St Margaret’s Loch and ruins are likewise great for more of an amble than ramble. Feed the ducks and swans and explore the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel, or why not enjoy a picnic if it’s a bright autumn day?
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh is a tourist mecca, and autumn, as well as being cooler is often slightly less busy, is the ideal time to see the castle. Especially with children in tow. And if you are there with wee ones, the castle tours are a great way to spend a few hours. They go into the castle’s rich history, including The Honours of Scotland – the oldest crown jewels in Britain – displayed in the Crown Room. Then there’s Mons Meg, the medieval cannon, and the castle’s military history to learn about. Again, the views of autumnal Edinburgh are spectacular.
Royal Botanic Garden
For a spot of autumn tranquillity, there’s nowhere quite like the Royal Botanic Garden. It boasts several themed trails ideal for children, where they can discover a variety of tree species and learn about the changing seasons. The Arboretum is especially beautiful in autumn, with its collection of exotic trees displaying vibrant leaves.
Should the weather take a turn for the worse, you can escape into the garden’s glasshouses. Tropical plants and educational exhibits will keep children entertained.
Autumn festivals and events
The Edinburgh Fringe might be a distant memory, but there are still several family-friendly festivals worth investigating.
Samhuinn Fire Festival (October 31)
This ancient Celtic celebration marks the end of the harvest season and the start of winter. Held on The Royal Mile, it’s family-friendly, with vibrant costumes, fire displays, and street performances. A magical and educational experience.
Edinburgh International Storytelling Festival (18- 31 October 2024)
Celebrating the art of storytelling, this one’s great for kids. It offers a wide range of interactive events, from workshops to performances, where children can immerse themselves in folklore, myths, and legends from around the world.
Dynamic Earth
For a fun and educational experience combined, Dynamic Earth should also be on your Edinburgh in autumn hit list. This interactive science centre takes families on a journey through the history of the planet.
Hands-on exhibits allow kids to experience an earthquake, explore the deep ocean, or walk through a rainforest. The immersive nature of the exhibits makes learning about earth’s geology and ecosystems fun and engaging.
Planetarium shows where you can learn about the night sky and explore distant planets are perfect indoor activities for rainy autumn days.
Autumn walks in Edinburgh parks
Edinburgh is home to numerous beautiful parks perfect for an autumn family walk in the fresh autumn air.
The Meadows
The Meadows are great for an autumn family picnic, a game of football, or a gentle stroll.
Inverleith Park
Just across from the Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Park boasts stunning views of the Edinburgh skyline and plenty of space for children to run around. The park’s large pond is terrifc for duck feeding or relaxing around.
Spooky autumn fun
Edinburgh’s spooky side comes to life in autumn as the days shorten, making it an exciting city for lovers of the supernatural and all things ghostly.
Family-friendly ghost tours
Several tour companies offer family-friendly ghost walks that are fun without being too scary. Explore the city’s haunted past while wandering through the atmospheric Old Town, with guides sharing stories of witches, ghosts, and historical figures.
Edinburgh Dungeon
For older children and teens, the Edinburgh Dungeon might be a bit more interesting. It combines live performances, special effects, and interactive storytelling. The Dungeon brings to life Edinburgh’s darker history in a way that’s both entertaining and educational.
Pumpkin picking and autumn crafts
You can pick pumpkins in October at Craigie’s Farm outside Edinburgh and then enjoy the farm’s cafe or let the kids explore the play area.
It’s also worth keeping an eye out for craft workshops hosted by museums and galleries, or community centres. From autumn-themed art to making Halloween decorations, they’re a fun way for children to express their creativity.
Sources:
sisf.org.uk
visitscotland.com
edinburghcastle.scot
