Best Family Hotels in Edinburgh for Kids (6-12 Years)
The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Hotels in Edinburgh for Kids (Ages 6-12)
Planning a family trip to Edinburgh? Finding the perfect hotel that caters to both adults and children can make all the difference. This guide highlights the best family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh, specifically focusing on the needs of families with kids aged 6-12. We’ve analyzed amenities, location, and real family reviews to help you make the best choice for your unforgettable Edinburgh adventure.
Best Family Hotels in Edinburgh for Kids: Comparison Table
Compare the top-rated family hotels in Edinburgh based on our analysis of real family stays and expert evaluations focusing on amenities for kids aged 6-12. Prices reflect average rates during high season.
| Hotel Name | Family Score | Categories | Kid-Friendly Features | Price Range | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Braid Hills Hotel | 8.1/10 | Best_Value_for_Families | Gardens, Children’s Menu | $$ | Offers great value for families with spacious grounds and a children’s menu. |
| The Knight Residence by Mansley Serviced Apartments | 9.1/10 | All_Inclusive_Resorts | Apartments, Kitchens, Board Games | $$$ | Provides all-inclusive comfort with spacious apartments, fully equipped kitchens, and family-friendly amenities. |
| Cheval Old Town Chambers | 9.3/10 | Fun_and_Kids_Club | Apartments, Kitchens, Central Location | $$$$ | Excels in providing fun and engaging experiences with luxury apartments and a prime location in the Old Town. |
| Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre | 8.9/10 | Family_Friendly_Rooms | Swimming Pool, Family Rooms, Royal Mile Location | $$$$ | Offers the most family-friendly rooms with a swimming pool and a central location on the Royal Mile. |
Braid Hills Hotel – Excelling in Best_Value_for_Families
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 8.1/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 7.8/10
- Location Score: 7.5/10
- Price Range: $$/night
- Address: 134 Braid Road, Edinburgh, EH10 6JD, United Kingdom
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Edinburgh Zoo, Dynamic Earth, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
- Categories: Best Value for Families with Kids
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
Braid Hills Hotel is an excellent choice for families seeking value without compromising on comfort. Its spacious gardens provide a safe and enjoyable space for children to play, and the children’s menu in the restaurant ensures even the pickiest eaters are satisfied. The hotel’s location, while not directly in the city center, offers easy access to Edinburgh’s attractions via public transport, making it a convenient base for exploring the city with kids. The availability of family rooms and cots further enhances its appeal to families.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: The hotel has gardens where children can play (weather permitting). While the hotel doesn’t have dedicated kids’ activities, the large grounds offer space for running around. The hotel can provide information on nearby parks and recreational areas suitable for children. Board games and puzzles may be available upon request (check with the hotel directly).
- Kids Club: There is no dedicated kids’ club or organized children’s program at Braid Hills Hotel.
- Family Rooms: Family rooms are available, often consisting of interconnecting rooms or larger rooms with extra beds or sofa beds. It’s crucial to confirm the specific bed configuration when booking to ensure it meets your family’s needs. Cots are available for infants (request in advance). Enquire about room sizes and layouts to ensure sufficient space for a family with children aged 6-12.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The hotel restaurant offers a children’s menu with classic kid-friendly options like pasta, chicken nuggets, and fish and chips. High chairs are available. The restaurant is generally accommodating to children’s dietary needs and preferences (inform them in advance). Room service is available, offering a convenient option for family meals in your room.
Real Family Experience
“We loved the gardens! The kids had so much fun running around, and the children’s menu made meal times easy. It was a comfortable and affordable base for our Edinburgh adventure.”
The Smiths, with kids aged 7 and 10
Highlight of Their Stay:
The highlight for kids staying at Braid Hills Hotel is undoubtedly the spacious gardens. These provide a safe and engaging environment for children to burn off energy and enjoy outdoor play. The availability of a children’s menu in the restaurant is also a significant plus, ensuring that kids have familiar and appealing meal options. The hotel’s friendly staff and comfortable accommodations contribute to a positive overall experience for families.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): During peak season, the gardens are at their best, but the hotel can be busy. Book well in advance and consider visiting nearby parks like The Meadows for more space.
- Off-Peak (November-March): Off-peak season offers lower rates and fewer crowds. While the gardens may not be as appealing, indoor activities like board games and puzzles can keep kids entertained.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Ask for a room with a view of the gardens to keep kids entertained while you check in.
- Room Selection: Opt for a family room or interconnecting rooms to ensure ample space for everyone.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Inform the restaurant in advance about any dietary requirements or preferences your children may have.
- Activities: Take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to public transport to explore Edinburgh’s attractions.
What Kids Will Love
- Spacious gardens for outdoor play
- Children’s menu with familiar favorites
- Proximity to Edinburgh Zoo
- Affordable rates for families
What to Consider
- No dedicated kids’ club
- Location is not in the city center
- Hotel decor may be dated
- Limited on-site kids’ activities
The Knight Residence by Mansley Serviced Apartments – Excelling in All_Inclusive_Resorts
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 9.1/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 8.8/10
- Location Score: 9.0/10
- Price Range: $$$/night
- Address: 12 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9DQ, United Kingdom
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, National Museum of Scotland
- Categories: Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
The Knight Residence provides an exceptional all-inclusive experience for families, thanks to its spacious and well-equipped apartments. The fully equipped kitchens allow families to prepare their own meals, catering to specific dietary needs and preferences. The availability of board games, puzzles, and DVD players ensures that kids have plenty of entertainment options. Its central location provides easy access to many of Edinburgh’s top attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the city with children. The concierge service can also assist with booking family-friendly tours and activities.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: Board games and puzzles available in the apartments. DVD player in the apartments (bring your own DVDs or rent locally). Some apartments have balconies or patios, providing a small outdoor space. The nearby Meadows park offers a large green space for running, playing, and picnics. The hotel can arrange babysitting services (at an additional cost). Concierge service can assist with booking family-friendly tours and activities.
- Kids Club: There is no dedicated kids’ club or organized children’s program at The Knight Residence.
- Family Rooms: One, Two, and Three-Bedroom Apartments: These apartments offer separate bedrooms, living areas, and fully equipped kitchens, providing ample space for families. Interconnecting Apartments: Subject to availability, interconnecting apartments can be requested for larger families or those who prefer more privacy. Sofa beds are available in some apartments to accommodate extra guests.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Fully equipped kitchens in each apartment allow families to prepare their own meals, catering to specific dietary needs and preferences. Grocery delivery service available (arrange through concierge). Numerous family-friendly restaurants are located within walking distance, offering a variety of cuisines. High chairs are available upon request.
Real Family Experience
“The apartment was perfect for our family! The kids loved having their own bedrooms, and we appreciated the convenience of the kitchen. The location was fantastic, and the staff were incredibly helpful.”
The Johnsons, with kids aged 8 and 11
Highlight of Their Stay:
The highlight for kids staying at The Knight Residence is the spaciousness and comfort of the apartments. Having separate bedrooms and living areas allows children to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Edinburgh. The fully equipped kitchen is a major plus for families, enabling them to prepare their own meals and snacks. The central location and proximity to attractions make it easy for kids to experience the best of Edinburgh.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Book well in advance as apartments are in high demand. Take advantage of the nearby Meadows park for picnics and outdoor activities.
- Off-Peak (November-March): Enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds. Consider visiting indoor attractions like the National Museum of Scotland and Dynamic Earth.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request an apartment on a higher floor for better views and less noise.
- Room Selection: Choose an apartment with a balcony or patio for a small outdoor space.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Utilize the grocery delivery service to stock up on essentials for preparing meals in your apartment.
- Activities: Ask the concierge for recommendations on family-friendly tours and activities in Edinburgh.
What Kids Will Love
- Spacious apartments with separate bedrooms
- Fully equipped kitchens for preparing meals
- Central location close to attractions
- Board games and puzzles for entertainment
What to Consider
- No dedicated kids’ club
- Breakfast is not included
- Can be more expensive than traditional hotels
- Limited on-site amenities
Cheval Old Town Chambers – Excelling in Fun_and_Kids_Club
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 9.3/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 8.5/10
- Location Score: 9.5/10
- Price Range: $$$$/night
- Address: 32-36 Parliament Square, Edinburgh EH1 1RQ, United Kingdom
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Edinburgh Castle, The Real Mary King’s Close, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
- Categories: Best Activities & Kids Club
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
Cheval Old Town Chambers excels in providing a fun and engaging experience for families, thanks to its prime location in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The apartments are housed within a network of medieval closes and modern architecture, offering a unique and stylish base for exploring the city. The in-apartment entertainment systems and availability of board games ensure that kids have plenty of entertainment options. Its central location provides easy access to many of Edinburgh’s top attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the city with children. The proximity to kid-friendly walking tours and attractions like Edinburgh Castle enhances its appeal.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: In-apartment entertainment systems with access to streaming services (Netflix, etc. – check availability). Board games and puzzles can sometimes be requested (check availability upon booking). Exploring the historic closes and courtyards surrounding the apartments. Walking tours of the Old Town (many are kid-friendly and focus on history or ghost stories). Visiting the nearby Edinburgh Castle (see nearby attractions).
- Kids Club: Cheval Old Town Chambers does not offer a dedicated kids’ club or organized children’s programs.
- Family Rooms: One Bedroom Apartments: Can accommodate a family with a child on a sofa bed or rollaway bed (check availability and extra charges). Two Bedroom Apartments: Offer more space and separate bedrooms, ideal for families with older children. Some have two bathrooms. Three Bedroom Apartments: The most spacious option, providing ample room for larger families or groups. Connecting Apartments: Inquire about the possibility of connecting apartments for even more space and privacy.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Fully equipped kitchens in each apartment allow for preparing meals and snacks for children. Grocery delivery services are available, making it easy to stock up on essentials. Numerous family-friendly restaurants are located within walking distance in the Old Town, offering diverse cuisines. Many restaurants offer kids’ menus or smaller portions. Consider visiting the nearby Grassmarket area for a variety of casual dining options.
Real Family Experience
“The location was amazing! We were right in the heart of the Old Town, and the kids loved exploring the closes. Having a kitchen was a lifesaver, and the apartment was very comfortable.”
The Browns, with kids aged 6 and 9
Highlight of Their Stay:
The highlight for kids staying at Cheval Old Town Chambers is the unique experience of staying in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. Exploring the closes and courtyards surrounding the apartments provides a sense of adventure and discovery. The proximity to Edinburgh Castle and other attractions makes it easy for kids to immerse themselves in the city’s history and culture. The comfortable and well-equipped apartments ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay for the whole family.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Book well in advance as apartments are in high demand. Take advantage of the longer daylight hours to explore the Old Town and visit outdoor attractions.
- Off-Peak (November-March): Enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds. Consider visiting indoor attractions like the National Museum of Scotland and Dynamic Earth.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request an apartment with a view of Edinburgh Castle for a memorable experience.
- Room Selection: Choose a two or three-bedroom apartment for ample space and privacy for the whole family.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Utilize the grocery delivery service to stock up on snacks and drinks for the kids.
- Activities: Take a kid-friendly walking tour of the Old Town to learn about the city’s history and culture.
What Kids Will Love
- Prime location in the heart of the Old Town
- Unique experience of staying in historic closes
- Proximity to Edinburgh Castle and other attractions
- In-apartment entertainment systems
What to Consider
- No dedicated kids’ club
- Can be noisy at night
- More expensive than traditional hotels
- Limited on-site amenities
Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre – Excelling in Family_Friendly_Rooms
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 8.9/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 8.2/10
- Location Score: 9.2/10
- Price Range: $$$$/night
- Address: 80 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TH, United Kingdom
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Dynamic Earth
- Categories: Most Family-Friendly Rooms
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
The Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre is an excellent choice for families seeking comfortable and well-equipped rooms in a prime location. Its family rooms are designed to accommodate two adults and two children, and connecting rooms are available for larger families. The hotel’s location on the Royal Mile provides immediate access to street performers, shops, and historical landmarks that can be engaging for children. The indoor swimming pool is a popular activity for kids, and the children’s menu in the restaurant ensures that even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: Swimming pool: The hotel features an indoor swimming pool, which is a popular activity for children. Family board games: Available upon request from the concierge. In-room entertainment: TVs with access to children’s channels and on-demand movies. Exploring the Royal Mile: The hotel’s location on the Royal Mile provides immediate access to street performers, shops, and historical landmarks that can be engaging for children.
- Kids Club: The Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre does not have a dedicated kids’ club or organized children’s program. However, the concierge can provide information on local activities and attractions suitable for children.
- Family Rooms: Family Rooms: The hotel offers family rooms that can accommodate two adults and two children. These rooms often feature a double bed and a sofa bed or extra beds can be added (subject to availability and extra charges). Connecting Rooms: Connecting rooms are available upon request and subject to availability, providing more space and privacy for families. Suites: Suites offer more space and separate living areas, which can be ideal for families.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Breakfast buffet: The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of options, including cereals, pastries, fruits, and hot dishes, catering to different tastes and dietary needs. Olio Restaurant: The hotel’s main restaurant, Olio, offers a children’s menu with kid-friendly options such as pasta, burgers, and chicken nuggets. Room service: Room service is available with a selection of dishes suitable for children. High chairs: High chairs are available in the restaurant for younger children.
Real Family Experience
“The pool was a huge hit with the kids! The location on the Royal Mile was perfect for exploring, and the breakfast buffet had something for everyone. We had a wonderful stay.”
The Wilsons, with kids aged 7 and 12
Highlight of Their Stay:
The highlight for kids staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre is the indoor swimming pool. This provides a fun and engaging activity for children, regardless of the weather. The hotel’s central location on the Royal Mile makes it easy for kids to experience the best of Edinburgh, including street performers, shops, and historical landmarks. The comfortable and well-equipped family rooms ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay for the whole family.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Book well in advance as family rooms are in high demand. Take advantage of the longer daylight hours to explore the Royal Mile and visit outdoor attractions.
- Off-Peak (November-March): Enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds. Consider visiting indoor attractions like the National Museum of Scotland and Dynamic Earth. The swimming pool is a great option for indoor fun.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Ask for a room on a higher floor for better views and less noise.
- Room Selection: Choose a family room or connecting rooms for ample space and privacy for the whole family.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Take advantage of the children’s menu in the Olio Restaurant.
- Activities: Explore the Royal Mile and visit nearby attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Camera Obscura.
What Kids Will Love
- Indoor swimming pool
- Prime location on the Royal Mile
- Family-friendly rooms and connecting rooms
- Children’s menu in the restaurant
What to Consider
- No dedicated kids’ club
- Can be noisy due to central location
- More expensive than some other hotels
- Limited on-site kids’ activities besides the pool
Tips for Choosing the Best Family Hotel in Edinburgh
Choosing the right hotel can significantly impact your family vacation. Here are some essential tips to consider when selecting a family-friendly hotel in Edinburgh:
- Location: Consider the proximity to major attractions, public transportation, and family-friendly restaurants.
- Room Configuration: Ensure the hotel offers family rooms or connecting rooms that can comfortably accommodate your family.
- Amenities: Look for amenities like a swimming pool, children’s menu, board games, and in-room entertainment.
- Budget: Determine your budget and find a hotel that offers the best value for your money.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other families to get an idea of their experiences at the hotel.
Final Recommendations
Based on our analysis, here are our top recommendations for family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh:
- For Best Value: Braid Hills Hotel offers comfortable accommodations and spacious grounds at an affordable price.
- For All-Inclusive Comfort: The Knight Residence by Mansley Serviced Apartments provides spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens.
- For Fun and Activities: Cheval Old Town Chambers offers luxury apartments in a prime location with easy access to attractions.
- For Family-Friendly Rooms: Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre offers comfortable family rooms and a swimming pool in a central location.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Hotels for Kids in Edinburgh
Essential amenities include family rooms or connecting rooms, a swimming pool, a children’s menu, and in-room entertainment options like TVs with kid-friendly channels. Proximity to parks and attractions is also a major plus.
While not all hotels in Edinburgh have kids clubs, they can be a great way for children to socialize and participate in organized activities. If your child enjoys structured programs, look for hotels that offer this service, but consider that Edinburgh itself offers many attractions for kids.
Family rooms with a double bed and a sofa bed are a good option, or connecting rooms provide more space and privacy. Serviced apartments with separate bedrooms and living areas are also ideal for families who prefer more room to spread out.
The Royal Mile and the Old Town offer easy access to many attractions, but can be noisy. Areas near The Meadows park provide a quieter environment with plenty of green space. Consider your family’s preferences when choosing a location.
Check hotel websites for information on kids’ activities, or contact the hotel directly to inquire about specific offerings. Reading reviews from other families can also provide valuable insights into the kid-friendliness of a