From Easter egg hunts in lush gardens to festivals that amaze and enthral, there’s something for all the family to enjoy in Edinburgh during Eastertime.
Easter in Edinburgh is a magical time of year. The city comes alive with vibrant festivals, exciting events and – of course – plenty of chocolate! Set this against the natural beauty of springtime in Edinburgh, and you’re in for a treat.
Here’s some ideas on how to make the most of this beautiful time of year in Scotland’s capital.
Fun on the farm
With spring comes the arrival of new life. Meet the latest arrivals at Craigies Farm, including the chance to feed the cuddly lambs. If there’s a budding farmer in your family, they’ll love the farm’s Little Farmers Playbarn, which offers animal handling and shows.
Easter extravaganzas
While the sun shines, get outdoors and enjoy some egg-stra special family fun. Hop, skip, and jump your way through an exciting mix of outdoor adventures at Dalkeith Country Park. Conifox Adventure Park has springtime adventures for all ages, including the chance to meet the Easter Bunny, while The Royal Yacht Britannia, Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace, is a great day out for all the family. Can you spot the corgis hiding in the easter-themed treasure hunt?
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a perfect spot for soaking up the sights, sounds and smells of spring. Younger family members can explore the expansive grounds while searching for clues in the Easter trail. Or get up close with animals from around the world at Edinburgh Zoo. Their events programme includes talks, workshops and tours.
For lovers of historical treasures, take a step back in time and explore the delights of the city’s stately homes. The gardens of Newhailes House include woodland walks in an 18th century designed landscape, while the kids can run off some energy in the Weehailes Adventure Playpark. Often described as one of Scotland’s finest stately homes, Hopetoun House can be viewed as part of a guided tour (from April to September). Enjoy stunning interiors filled with furniture, paintings and tapestries, while the ground’s extensive grounds offer nature trails and scenic walks. Or take a trip to Lauriston Castle, a time capsule of Edwardian history, which can be explored on a guided tour. The castle also hosts a variety of events throughout the year – keep an eye on their website for details.
From tours and trails to events and exhibitions, explore events coming to Edinburgh in our what’s on guide.
Festival frolics
Running over the holiday period, the world’s first and largest celebration of science, Edinburgh Science Festival has a bumper programme of workshops, shows, talks, exhibitions and nights out, all with a fun and interesting scientific twist.
Or for an awe-inspiring cavalcade of dancing, music and theatre, don’t miss Beltane Fire Festival, a modern reinterpretation of an ancient ritual celebrating the first signs of summer.
Fantastic food and drink
What’s Easter without a delicious meal to enjoy together? If it’s a traditional Easter Sunday roast that has got your tastebuds tingling, many of the cities restaurants and bars offer exactly that. Try gastropub The Scran and Scallie where pub classics are given a modern twist; The Ox, who have become famous locally for their legendary roasts, or steak restaurant, Hawksmoor Edinburgh where slow roasted joints are served with all the trimmings.
However you celebrate the Easter season, one thing’s for sure – Edinburgh is a cracking place to spend it in!
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
