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Museum of Childhood

Edinburgh, United Kingdom•4.3(2.2k)•Museum

The world's first museum dedicated to childhood featuring toys, dolls, and games from the 1800s to today.

The Museum of Childhood was the world's first museum dedicated to childhood when it opened in 1955, and remains a beloved Edinburgh institution. Explore toys, dolls, games, books, and clothing representing British childhood from the 1800s to present day. Highlights include a rare Queen Anne Doll from 1740, a Raleigh Chopper, and a Kindertransport bear. Free admission with a dressing-up area for younger visitors. Perfect for families and anyone feeling nostalgic.

Prices

Free entry

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

6 years – 12 years

Perfect for

#BoardGames#Toys
#Trains

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

What Parents Say

KiddyCompass™ Family

We analysed 87 parent reviews from the past 12 months and distilled the key insights for you.

Updated 27 February 2026

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Google Reviews

4.3(2.2k reviews)
K
Kalista Sky

Kalista Sky

3 months ago

The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh is free to enter, though you can always leave a donation. It’s spread across several floors with different toys to see. The place is interesting not only for children but also for adults and older visitors. Little ones can not only look at the exhibits but also interact with some of them. There’s also a short film about childhood in the 1930s–1960s, offering glimpse into the past.

H
H 999

H 999

4 months ago

The toy collection from olden days is charming and nostalgic. It’s free to enter and sits right in the heart of the city. Lovely little museum for families or anyone who enjoys childhood memories!

F
Fikha Rahmadina

Fikha Rahmadina

4 months ago

I love coming to the Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh, it’s such a unique and nostalgic place. As someone from Indonesia, I was amazed to see so many toys and dolls I’ve never seen before. The collection is huge and full of charm, with items from different eras that really make you feel like you’re stepping into the past. It’s exciting to explore, and there’s so much to see, but I do feel like it’s a bit hidden, not many people seem to know about it. Even though the museum has a lot of fascinating displays, the way the items are arranged could be improved. Right now, everything feels a bit too packed or randomly placed, and I think a better layout could make the experience even more engaging. It’s such a shame that not many people come by, especially since the location is actually really good, right along the Royal Mile. Maybe using social media more actively could help attract more visitors, because this place definitely deserves more attention!

A
Asli

Asli

5 months ago

Small but a definitely enjoyful museum! The best part was surely the doll's room. I was surprised to see such different dolls together in one room haha The entrance with all those lovely messages about childhood times made me smile. You can definitely feel it is not just a combination of childhood related objects inside but an effort to make the experience the fullest with fine details considered in each corner. I really liked how some parts of the museum was so interactive, I can definitely see people can rekindle their childhood here. The entrance is also free, you should definitely take a visit!

K
K. Peake

K. Peake

7 months ago

This museum is an absolute gem for a free visit, starting with info about the early stages of life that children experience! Details are taken in from the different eras of time for them, artefacts and culture of old schools are demonstrated even. Plenty of board and card games, alongside toys throughout periods of time are shown in a fascinating collection! Appreciate how they have small notable things like train sets, the doll room collection is really interesting in itself too.

Reviews last updated: 6 December 2025

Events at Museum of Childhood

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 4 December 2025

Frequently asked questions about Museum of Childhood

Is Museum of Childhood free to visit?

Entry to Museum of Childhood is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Museum of Childhood suitable for?

Museum of Childhood is best for children aged 6 to 12.

Is Museum of Childhood dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Museum of Childhood.

Is there parking at Museum of Childhood?

Museum of Childhood doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Museum of Childhood?

Museum of Childhood doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Museum of Childhood pushchair-friendly?

Museum of Childhood isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Museum of Childhood?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Museum of Childhood.

How do I get to Museum of Childhood by public transport?

Museum of Childhood is well-served by public transport — buses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 stop nearby, and Edinburgh Waverley station is about 4 minutes' walk away. For the full list, see the public transport section above.
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