The Easter holidays are approaching and if you are visiting in Edinburgh soon this post is all about the free and fun things you can see and do in the city.
The majority of the art galleries and museums in Edinburgh are free.

My personal favourite is the National Museum of Scotland, there is a plethora of things to see there, however I have to give special mention to the Writer’s Museum on the Lawnmarket.

The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street

This institution in Edinburgh's Old town is such a gem. The museum is free and open seven days a week. There are permanent exhibitions, including my favourite on the ground floor “ The Kingdom of Scots” which showcases Scottish history from the Viking Era through to the 19th century. Look out for the Lewis Chessmen and the replica crypt of Mary Queen of Scots.

If you would like to know more about the Lewis chess pieces, I have an article about them here.

There is also a natural history section, science and technology (the famous Dolly The Sheep) and a huge section of Scottish design, fashion and global costumes.

The animal world section is interesting and there are different species of animal suspended from the ceiling, look out for the giant whale! Work your way up to the top floor and head outside onto their rooftop garden, there are excellent views across Edinburgh. You can take the lift almost to the top floor and then it is a staircase up to the viewing deck.

This place is great for kids as there are a few interactive elements and during the school holidays the great exhibition hall often has child friendly events on.

On the basement level there is also a room where you can eat your own packed lunch, the room has tables, highchairs and a water refill station.

The National Museum has a few eateries, the basement cafe is the more upmarket one and there is a cafe on the balcony overlooking the Victorian era exhibition hall. I can also highly rate the gift shop, there is an excellent selection of books on offer.

Dr Neil’s Garden, Duddingston

Hidden away in the area called Duddingston, is the serene Dr Neil's Garden. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh the gardens are like an oasis.

This area overshadowed by the slopes of Arthur’s Seat and next to the Duddingston Loch. First founded in 1963 on the shores of Loch Duddingston by Doctor’s Nancy and Andrew Neil. Due to the steep slopes of the land it was deemed unsuitable to sew crops, so the idea of the garden came about. Part of the gardens have been made into a physic garden which highlighted the doctor’s interest in horticulture and medicine. Both Nancy and Andrew would encourage their patients to help with the gardening and to help with their mental health.
The gardens are free to explore.

If you want to read more about the gardens, I have a blog post here.

The Museum of Childhood, Canongate (Royal Mile)

The Museum of Childhood is located on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, across from John Knox’s House.Edinburgh council runs this place and they recently underwent extensive renovation and inside you can get a hit of nostalgia.

They have toys, games and dolls from the Victorian era through the decades right through to the early 2000's. There is an extensive collection of toy trains and cars for those who are a bit of a petrol head. I was pleased to see the collection of toys from the 1990's. Near the end of the exhibition they have recreated a 1800’s street with shop fronts and puppets and toys of the era.

This place is great for children and there is a section for dress up, games and puzzles. They also have a small gift shop on the ground floor with toys to take home.

I would advise you to check opening times online before you set off.

National Portrait Gallery, Queen Street

Located in Edinburgh's New Town (Queen Street ) is the large red sandstone portrait gallery. I love this gallery, the portraits of some well known Scottish figures are hung inside. This free gallery has over 3000 works inside and spread over three floors.

There are paintings from the Royal Stewart Dynasty (1500/1600's) and there is a striking oil portrait of King Charles 1st execution. There are also some from the Jacobite era, including Bonnie Prince Charlie.

The gallery also has more modern portraits of Scottish scientists, sportsmen and politicians which is continuously added too.

The highlight for me is the enchanted ceiling in the entrance foyer, the night sky is painted in gold detailing and brass lanterns hanging.

I would allow yourself two hours to fully explore this gallery and I would recommend their cafe for coffee and cake. On site there are luggage lockers and a well stocked gift shop.

The Scottish Parliament

Situated at the bottom of the Royal Mile and next to Holyrood Palace is the home of Scottish politics. The rather modern building has a unique design and is quite controversial in Scotland. Built in 2004, the concrete style and design does stick out in the surrounding area however you soon get past that once you enter and see how important this building is.

First Ministers Questions and debate happens on Thursdays, from 12pm to 12.45pm and you can get free tickets to watch from the viewing balcony. It's the most popular session of Parliament to watch, and demand for tickets is high.

You can take free tours of the parliament building and learn about Scottish democracy and the backstory to devolution in Scotland. The 45 minute tour includes a visit to the debating chamber but you should book your free tour online. Guided tours take place Monday, Friday and Saturday.

Entrance is free but you do have to go through security as you enter. Once you are through security you will see a cafe directly to your left and an exhibition in the main hall.

Calton Hill

Climb up Calton Hill for the best views of Edinburgh and surrounding area. From te top you will see Edinburgh Castle, the New Town and the rolling hills of Arthur's seat. Perched on top of the hill you will see The National Monument, The Observatory and Dugald Stewart Monument. In the summer time you will see many people spending time on the benches enjoying the view.

The climb can be done two different ways, the back way starting from London Road is steeper and longer whereas the Waterloo Place steps are quicker.

Time your trip for sunset and if you are visiting Edinburgh in late May check out the Beltane fire festival which congregates up there. I have a dedicated blog post all about Beltane here.

Ross Fountain, Princes Street Gardens.

Located in the West Princes Street gardens is the huge cast iron water fountain. Found in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle, you will have arguably the best view of Castle rock and the Castle.

The Ross fountain was created in 1862 and the metal craftsmanship and colours are striking. Its intricate design, features angelic cherubs, mermaids, and water nymphs, exemplifies the era’s fascination with classical themes. After all, Edinburgh is nicknamed the “Athens of the North”.

If you visit in the cold winter you may see the fountain all frozen and magical.

This area is great for having a picnic stop and to hear the One O' Clock Canon fire from the castle above.

Greyfriars Kirkyard, Candlemaker Row

This might sound a bit odd but trust me, this graveyard is incredible.

Located in the old town near the Grassmarket, Greyfriars is over 400 years old.

The tombstones (mostly Victorian era) are highly decorative and beautiful in their own way. Walk along the paths to see history, look out for the more morbid Grave snatchers Mort Safes, the Covananters Prison and view the allegedly haunted mausoleum of Sir George Mackenzie.

On a lighter note, the main entrance gate has a dedicated tombstone and statue to a dog, named Greyfriars Bobby who once sat at his owners grave for many years.

If you walk at the back of the church you will see the Flodden Wall, a boundary wall that protected Edinburgh in the 1500's.

St Giles Cathedral, Royal Mile

The St Giles Cathedral situated on the Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh. The 900 year old cathedral has survived fires, the Reformation and many an Edinburgh Mob.

You can enter the door on Parliament Square side and see the incredible stained glass windows, imposing stone pillars and beamed ceiling.

Look for the wooden beamed Thistle Chapel for a more intimate setting.

The cathedral will have a daily service at noon and they are accepting donations. This place really is a sanctuary and you can see why it is so important to the people of Edinburgh.

The Witches Well, Castlehill

This small cast iron memorial is located on Castlehill (it's actually on the side of the Tartan Weaving Mill). The water feature was placed there in 1894. The monument is dedicated to the thousands of wrongly accused women who were accused of Witchcraft. The majority of them were accused between the 1500's-1700's and in particular under the reign of King James 6th of Scotland. Pay your respects to this innocent woman and seek out his memorial.

There is a small information board next to it, detailing the symbolism of the wishing well. I should also plug my own Witchcraft tour, in person or on audio guide. I will link it here.

Free Things to do in Edinburgh

GPSMycity Guides