As you venture through the city of Edinburgh, you'll find yourself surrounded by admirable medieval architecture and elegant Georgian gardens. This beautiful city really is a sight for sore eyes; but more than that, it has a story to tell.
Perfect for school trips for enrichment and rewards, our educational tours of Edinburgh take in everything from the magical Camera Obscura to the thrilling Edinburgh Dungeon.
So whether you're looking to learn about the city's rich history, or simply broaden pupils' horizons with a fun-filled adventure, our expert team can build a bespoke itinerary that's perfect for your needs.
The National Museum of Scotland is one of the Top 10 visitor attractions in the whole of the UK. As the home to thousands of fascinating artefacts, it's easy to see why. The Museum cares for collections of national and international importance, preserving them, interpreting them and making them accessible to as many people as possible - including primary school trips!
The diverse collections will take your school group on a journey of discovery through the history of Scotland, and wonders of nature, art, design, fashion, science and technology from around the world.
This visit is great for school groups as they offer displays that focus on the natural world, world cultures, science, technology, design, art and fashion, archaeology and Scottish history – and more! Educational workshops are also available for groups of all ages.
No school visit to Edinburgh is complete without a trip to Edinburgh castle, Edinburgh's most popular visitor attraction. Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress which dominates the skyline of the city of Edinburgh, Scotland, from its position on the Castle Rock. It is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe; set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city with scenery that will take your breath away.
Some of the castle’s highlights that are sure to capture the interest of the children are: the crown jewels (the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles), Mons Meg (one of the greatest guns in medieval Europe) and the Prisons of War which once held prisoners of war from across the world!
A school trip to Camera Obscura is a fascinating and highly amusing way to see Edinburgh and learn about its history. From inside this mysterious Victorian rooftop chamber, school groups can see live moving images of the city, projected onto a viewing table through a giant periscope. It's a great way of helping students to learn about Edinburgh’s heritage whilst keeping them engaged.
The floors beneath the Camera Obscura hold the "World of Illusions", which offers interactive exhibits demonstrating aspects of optical illusions, light, and colour. A colourful way to explore science with your class.
Mary King's Close is a warren of underground streets and spaces in the Old Town area of Edinburgh, Scotland. It took its name from one Mary King, daughter of advocate Alexander King, who in the 17th century had owned several properties within the close. Back in those days closes were named after the most prominent citizen or the most commonly found business to be on the close.
For years, the hidden Closes of Old Town Edinburgh have been shrouded in myths and mysteries. Today the attraction brings these stories to life with a costumed character tour guide based on a one time resident. Groups will explore the underground site, hearing the fascinating stories.
Dynamic Earth takes you on a journey through time, to tell the story of planet Earth, how it works, how life has evolved on its differing environments, and the future challenges it faces. Situated at the foot of Edinburgh's spectacular Salisbury Crags, it's a fantastic spot for a school geography trip.
Edinburgh is a great place for an open top bus ride! Wherever you look, the city buzzes with a sense of excitement all year round. Entertaining and informative commentary is available in nine different languages*, alongside the Horrible Histories commentary – a great option for school groups.
Discover the best of Scotland’s Capital on board the bus and take in the city’s major sites including: Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Grassmarket, Scottish Parliament and the Scottish National Gallery.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, commonly referred to as Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Queen Elizabeth spends one week in residence at Holyrood Palace at the beginning of each summer, where she carries out a range of official engagements and ceremonies.
At the Palace of Holyroodhouse, visitors can explore 14 magnificent historic and State Apartments, the romantic ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey and remarkable royal gardens, all with a complimentary audio tour.
On your school tour of Edinburgh Dungeon you’ll witness a variety of enthralling shows, taking you through Scotland’s darkest history. With stunning special effects, authentic sets, witty comedy, two heart-stopping rides and a host of scary surprises lurking in the Dungeon, it’s a unique and fun introduction to a range of classroom subjects including History and Performing Arts.