Edinburgh Days 1-3, Pitlochry Days 4-7, Isle of Skye Days 7-9
Lodging: We stayed in a great VRBO that was just around the block from the iconic circus lane. These houses were once old stables that were part of the city and converted into highly coveted housing after. This VRBO was very large, and the best part was it had its own little yard. We would spend the downtime exploring the city just relaxing and letting our daughter run around.
VRBO: Self-contained flat in New town, Stockbridge
We ate there more than I would like to admit. But when something works, it works. It was right around the block from our VRBO. Had amazing breakfasts and coffee. And are you ready for the best part? There is a gated children’s play area in the middle with tables around it so you can enjoy your food while watching your kids play! Amazing! They mostly cater to breakfast and lunch items, so keep that in mind.
We are a sucker for this European chain restaurant. The food is good for adults, there are so many options for kids, and it’s casual. Plus, you can find one in almost any neighborhood you are in while in the UK. I never felt the need to make sure my kids weren’t being too loud anytime we ate here. Plus, I came back to the states and put peri-peri sauce on everything now.
This is a little more upscale option if you are feeling like treating yourself as parents or caregivers, but also offers a play area within the restaurant for kids to entertain themselves. They also have a kid’s menu and is a great spot to try out for lunch or dinner
Edinburgh Castle – the central point of Edinburgh is a must-see. There were so many places to wander and discover the deep history of the city and the artifacts that are kept there. It is a beautiful view as well to see the rest of the city and you could spend about 1/2 a day there if the crowds are forgiving. The castle is made up of small cobblestone with lots of stairs. If you have young ones, it would be wise to leave the stroller and use a baby carrier.
Arthur’s Seat – A beautiful 45-minute hike with incredible views of the city. Definitely a climb, but doable with young children in a carrier or older kids who are active. Leave your stroller at home for this one.
Edinburgh Old Town and Victoria Street – Such an iconic area with lots of shops, eateries, and history. The elephant room where J.K Rowling wrote most of the Harry Potter series is also located here and fills up quickly. Parents you can get around very easily here with a stroller.
Haunted Vaults and Graveyards Walking Tour – This tour was very entertaining and informational. So much of Edinburgh is underground and it does have a dark history to it as well. You can learn so much from this fun excursion. It was not too scary so the kids could join! It would be best to use a baby carrier though because there are lots of steps and non-paved areas.
Edinburgh Royal Botanical Gardens – The kids could spend so much time exploring this beautiful park. It is a great place to let them run around, a beautiful place for the parents to experience, and has an eatery on the premises in case a coffee or food is needed. A picnic or food-to-go would also be a great idea for the botanical gardens. You could also bring your stroller here due to its size of it and accessibility.