Top things to do in Edinburgh this Easter

Scotland’s finest stately home, Hopetoun House, reopens for the 2026 season this Easter weekend.

Enjoy Easter crafts in the Ranger Centre and Education Room, a trail through the Spring Garden Trail, learn about life cycles and ecosystems with Froglife, and meet and walk therapy horses.

Why settle for an ordinary day out when you can hop into history aboard the last British Royal Yacht in the world, this Easter. Come rain or shine, this is an all-weather visit, with a refreshing breath of fresh sea air in between each of the five decks.

Bring your curiosity for the ship’s stories shared in 36 languages through an audio guide, BSL/ASL tablet and Braille script. There’s something for all ages, keep your little landlubbers entertained with a children’s version of the audio tour, available in English, French, Italian, and German. One, two, ten or more, how many cuddly corgis will they spot hiding on board? The State Apartments feel as if the Royal Family have left only moments ago, leaving you to explore at your own pace. Look into the Engine Room where you can almost hear the hum of the machinery, gleaming just as it did when the ship sailed across the world.

For an extra special moment, head up to the Royal Deck Tearoom where hearty soups, filling sandwiches, slices of cake and golden scones ready to be topped with jam and clotted cream call to you, tasting all the better as you look out over the waterfront.

Everyone is welcome at Britannia, with lifts and ramps installed to allow easy, relaxed access between and around each of the highly accessible decks.

What’s even better, an Annual Pass is included with your ticket, so you can come back for free for 12 months. Just a short tram ride from the city centre, there’s free car parking too.

Running across two action-packed weekends, families can enjoy a range of exciting activities at Dalkeith Country Park.

Thrill-seekers can take on the exhilarating Zorbing Cannon Ball Run, while little ones unleash their creativity with Easter face painting and glitter stations. Hunt for hidden letters in the Easter Maze, meet the Easter Bunny at the Bunny Bothy, and hop, skip and jump your way through the Easter Bunny Fun Run.

Hop along to the Easter trail at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions and see if you can find the colourful eggs lost amongst 100 interactive exhibits. A sweet treat reward is available to all children taking part.

Early-bunnies get £4.00 off tickets during the holiday period for entry before 9am when booked in advance online.

Take a self-guided tour of the house, where there will be activities suitable for all ages including drop-in crafts and children’s games.

Disabled access to the ground floor of the house only. The vaults are down steep stairs.

Packed with seasonal activities, Conifox Easter Festival offers fun for all ages and the perfect way for families to enjoy the Easter holidays together.

Enjoy Easter egg hunts, character encounters (including Bertie the Easter Bunny), Easter-themed games, creative activities, and full access to the Adventure Park. Plus, new for 2026, children can decorate their own Easter mug to take home as a keepsake.

This Easter, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, The King’s official residence in Edinburgh and the home of Scottish royal history, will be running a range of craft activities.

Follow the trail and find the crowns hidden in the Easter Crown Hunt, make some paper flowers to take home, or decorate a stained glass inspired Easter egg decoration.

Find all the eggs, complete the trail and win a prize at the family-friendly Easter Egg-splorer Trail at Edinburgh Zoo.

Trail sheets at £2.00 per person.

Follow a series of self-guided trails around Vogrie Country Park this Easter.

Interactive activity stations invite visitors of all ages to spot signs of wildlife, identify spring growth, and take part in simple nature‑based challenges. From listening for birdsong to searching for woodland textures, each stop offers a moment of curiosity and connection with the outdoors. This seasonal event celebrates the arrival of spring, encouraging everyone to enjoy fresh air, explore the park’s landscapes, and notice the small but magical details that make this time of year so special.

Tumble down a rabbit hole or two and enjoy a packed programme of creative mischief at Almond Valley Heritage Centre’s Mad Hatters Easter Eggstravaganza.

Families will be able to enjoy The Mad Hatter’s Treasure Trail of Wonder, indoor/outdoor adventure zones, lawn games, animal encounter sessions, train/tractor rides, and the legendary duck race.

Other than an area downstairs in one of the mill buildings, all of Almond Valley is wheelchair and buggy accessible. Some outdoor pathways can be uneven and/or wet/muddy. There is level access to the Museum galleries. Assistance dogs are permitted on site.

Crack the clues, follow the trail and claim your reward at Newhailes House & Garden’s Easter Egg Trail.

Two trails will be available: one for older children, and one for younger trail explorers. They’ll also be face painting workshops (additional charges apply).

Choose your time slot, follow the trail, collect the clues, solve the puzzle and collect your tasty prize at Preston Mill’s Easter Egg Trail.

Afterwards, why not make a day of it by enjoying the garden’s picnic space.

Join Brewhemia for The Easter Bunny’s Brunch – a morning of brunch, movie mischief, and full-blown Easter magic.

While you relax, the Brewhemian Easter Bunny will be busy leading egg hunts, hosting Easter crafts and leading games. Expect laughter, fridge-worthy artwork, and plenty of photo-ops.