Edinburgh Museum of Childhood

The world's first museum dedicated to the history of childhood, housed in a 16th-century building on the Royal Mile. Five floors display toys, games, and childhood artifacts from the 18th century to present day, including Victorian dolls houses and 1980s video games. It sits in Edinburgh's Old Town, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Edinburgh's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Entry is free and 1-2 hours gives you a thorough visit.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 1-2 hours Best for: nostalgic journey through childhood across Skip if: You're travelling without children and have limited interest in social history or vintage toys Cost: Free

You climb narrow stairs between floors packed with glass cases of dolls, teddy bears, and toy soldiers. Children press buttons to activate mechanical toys while adults read about childhood through the centuries, from apprenticeships to modern playgrounds.

Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access due to narrow historic stairs, ground floor only accessible

Nostalgic journey through childhood across centuries, appealing to both adults remembering their youth and children discovering old toys. That puts it near the top of any Edinburgh visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with The Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Edinburgh. Afternoon tends to work best here. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You're travelling without children and have limited interest in social history or vintage toys

• Interactive elements on each floor keep children engaged.
• Ground floor shop has quality traditional toys.
• Ask staff about the building's history as you explore.

Insider tip: The museum was founded by city councillor Patrick Murray who never had children but believed childhood deserved preservation

Photography allowed throughout. Best shots are the Victorian dollhouses and the view down the spiral staircase