Top 5 Family Destinations in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in UK. It is also one of the most tourist cities of the country which attracts 13 million visitors a year. It is also known for its many cobbled streets, heritage buildings, quirky shops, pubs and restaurants. The main areas of Edinburgh city are Princess Street, Old town, New Town, West End, Grassmarket, Stockbridge, Leith and Arthur's seat.

Situated on the top of the volcano, at the end of Royal Mile, the ancient Edinburgh Castle, is one of the must visit places for any visitor to Edinburgh. It is also the most visited paid attraction of Edinburgh. The main attraction of this castle is its Grand Hall which was completed in 1511 and has collections of weapons and armory and display of crown jewels. Mons Meg, the famous one O clock gun, is also a main attraction here.

Hollyrood Palace is the official residence of British Monarchs, and has been home for many British kings and queens for several years. It is located at the end of Royal Mile, the road that links to the other royal building, Edinburgh Castle. Hollyrood Palace was founded by James IV in the year 1498. Since then the palace has witnessed several Scottish history. Married at 15 and widowed at 19, Queen Mary Scot was crowned here as the Queen of Scotts.

Queen Elizabeth II spends some days here in summer. During that time the palace is closed for public, and the rest of the time it is open to the public.

The ruins of Hollyrood Abbey is also here.

Children always love a visit to the zoo. When you are in Edinburgh, the Zoo is one of the best places to take them. They would enjoy all the animals there, especially the Pandas and the Penguin parade. Located on the top of Corstorphine Hills, Edinburgh zoo provides a scintillating view of the complete city. Those who want to explore the hilly terrain area of the zoo, a hill top safari is also available.

The whole family can enjoy by visiting Royal Yacht Britannica, the most famous ship in the world, and have a glance of the history of British monarchy. This ship was used by the Royal family for many years. You can enter each room with a self-guided audio tour and learn more about the magnificent ship and how it was used by the royals, which has sailed more than one million miles around the globe, carrying the royal family. With the help of the complimentary audio guides, the tourists can experience the Royal Yacht leisurely at their own pace. It is maintained in the same standard when the ship was in royal service.

Those who want to combine their shopping along with this visit, it can easily be done in the Ocean Terminal where several departmental stores and specialty stores are available.

Though Deep Sea World is situated in North Queensferry, which is just about 20 minutes drive from the city of Edinburgh, it is a wonderful place to visit as a family. During your trip to Edinburgh, taking your children to this Aquarium, will be a great reward for them. The children with their parents or with teachers, can tour the longest underwater tunnel and watch the amazing marine creatures in Deep Sea World, the National Aquarium of Scotland.

There are also different types of festivals celebrated in this tourist city such as Edinburgh International Festival,Edinburgh Christmas Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival, Edinburgh Mela, Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Edinburgh Fringe Festival etc.