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Top 15 Rainy Day Activities in Edinburgh to Beat Those Blues Away

| Last Updated: September 2024

There’s this one time I decided to take a nice stroll around my city. But Edinburgh, being Edinburgh, decided to switch things up and unleash a downpour that made me question my life choices.

Yep, there I was—soaked to the bone and looking like a drenched cat. Well, after that incident, I’ve learned my lesson and familiarised myself with indoor gems in Edinburgh. 

So now, check out these best indoor activities in Edinburgh that I’ve listed. All of these kept me entertained and will help you boot those rainy day blues too!

Explore fascinating exhibits at the National Museum of Scotland

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Website: https://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland/ 
Address: Chambers St.
Contact details: +44 300 123 6789
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free

The National Museum of Scotland is buzzing with a mix of ancient history and modern tech that’ll keep anyone entertained for hours. You can zigzag through exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur skeletons to cutting-edge Scottish inventions.

Other must-sees here are the natural world gallery, which is full of animal models, and the fashion gallery, where you can get a glimpse of some fabulous historical attire. For those into ancient cultures, there’s a treasure trove of artefacts from all over the world.

If you’re taking kids along, the interactive science and technology gallery will be a lifesaver where they can touch, play, and learn, And hey, don’t forget about the crowd favourite Dolly the Sheep, the first-ever cloned mammal, at the animal installations.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you head up to the rooftop terrace if the rain lets up even a bit; it offers one of the best panoramic views of Edinburgh. And don’t skip the gift shop on the way out; they’ve got some super unique souvenirs!

Discover underground history at The Real Mary King’s Close

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Website: https://realmarykingsclose.com/ 
Address: 2 Warriston’s Cl.
Contact details: +44 131 225 0672
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Cost: Tour prices

  • Adult – £25
  • Child (Ages 5 to 15) – £19
  • Private tour (up to 20 people) – from £425

The Real Mary King’s Close has a series of preserved 17th-century streets buried beneath the Royal Mile that are teeming with tales of plague, murder, and haunted corners. 

You’ll go on a guided tour through the dimly lit building with costumed characters who bring history to life in an engaging way. It’s spooky but not too terrifying, offering a blend of historical fact and eerie folklore. 

As you wander through the maze of alleyways, you’ll see homes and streets exactly as they were centuries ago. There are also stories of body snatchers, which add a dark twist to the whole experience..

Pro tip: 

Remember to book your tickets online well in advance to get the best slots, especially if you’re visiting during peak tourist seasons. This place fills up fast, and you don’t want to miss out on this underground gem.

Admire classic and modern art at the National Galleries of Scotland

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Website: https://www.nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-gallery 
Address: The Mound
Contact details: +44 131 624 6200
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free entry

If you’re an art lover, the National Galleries of Scotland should be at the top of your list for a rainy-day retreat. The team curates both classic and contemporary pieces, meaning you can spend hours flipping between old masters and modern marvels.

They have a stunning collection of works from big names like Van Gogh, Monet, and Turner. You’ll also find pieces from Scottish artists, showcasing the rich art heritage of the country.

Not just about paintings; they’ve got sculptures and installations that make you stop and think. Plus, the rotating exhibitions mean there’s always something new to see; one visit is never quite enough.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you swing by the cafe between galleries; they’ve got a delightful selection of cakes and hot drinks. And keep an eye out for the free tours, which provide a deeper dive into the stories behind the artwork.

Enjoy optical illusions at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

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Website: https://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/ 
Address: 549 Castlehill
Contact details: +44 131 226 3709
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Cost: 

  • Adult – £22.95
  • Student (with ID), Senior (65+) – £20.95
  • Child (ages 5 to 15) – £17.95
  • Ages under 5 – Free

For something that’s going to blow your mind, you better head to Camera Obscura and The World of Illusions. This is a super fun spot full of mind-boggling optical illusions, 3D holograms, and visual puzzles that’ll have you scratching your head.

It’s a fantastic place to bring kids, but let’s be real, adults have a blast here too. At the heart of it all is the Camera Obscura itself, an old-school optical device that projected real-time panoramic views of Edinburgh before the age of high-tech cameras.

The way it works is pretty crazy and totally fascinating, even in today’s digital age. You can also try the Vortex Tunnel, which messes with your balance in the weirdest way—it’s one of those “you have to try it to believe it” kinds of things.

Pro tip: 

Online booking can save you a bit of cash and guarantee entrance during busy hours. Oh, and make sure your phone or camera is fully charged—this place is an Instagram gold mine!

Experience spooky tales at the Edinburgh Dungeon

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Website: https://www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh/en/ 
Address: 31 Market Place
Contact details: +44 131 240 1041
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 5:15 PM
Cost:

  • Standard ticket – From £18 per adult
  • Anytime ticket – £29 per adult
  • Dungeon + Bus tour – £39 per adult
  • Dungeon lates (ages 18+) – £27.50 per adult

If you’re looking for something spine-chilling yet totally entertaining, the Edinburgh Dungeon hits the nail on the head. Painstakingly crafted to pull you into Edinburgh’s dark past, it offers a series of live-action shows that are equal parts spooky and funny.

You’ll get up close and personal with the likes of grave robbers Burke and Hare or the infamous witch Agnes Finnie. The live actors are incredible and know exactly how to keep you on the edge of your seat with their stories and jump-scares.

There’s also a boat ride down a murky canal that enhances the eerie experience. And don’t miss the “Horror of the Torture Chamber”—it’s gruesomely fascinating and not for the squeamish!

Pro tip: 

Remember to get your tickets online and aim for an early-in-the-day visit. The Dungeon gets busier as the day goes on, and you’ll want to avoid the larger crowds for a more immersive experience.

Learn whisky making at The Scotch Whisky Experience

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Website: https://www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk/ 
Address: 354 Castlehill
Contact details: +44 131 220 0441
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6:20 PM
Cost: Ticket prices are available upon booking

The Scotch Whisky Experience is where you get to dive deep into the world of whisky-making. To start, you’ll get a guided tour that explains the meticulous process of creating Scotland’s most famous export.

There’s usually a short film to give you historical context and a bit of a modern-day twist on whisky production. Once you’re up to speed on the ins and outs of whisky, you can head over to their interactive exhibit, where you can virtually blend your own whisky.

And yes, there will be tastings. Several of them.

Pro tip: 

Don’t forget to check out their shop afterward; it has an extensive range of whiskies you can take home, from rare bottles to more mainstream favourites.

Step back in time at The People’s Story Museum

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Website: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/peoples-story-museum 
Address: The Royal Mile, 163 Canongate
Contact details: +44 131 529 4057
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday  – 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Cost: Free entry

The People’s Story Museum is an often-underrated gem that’s perfect for a rainy day. This isn’t your typical, dusty museum—it’s all about showcasing the everyday lives of Edinburgh’s citizens throughout history.

From the 18th century to the present day, you’ll find a variety of exhibits that bring the city’s social history to life. Expect some real stories, artefacts, and even some hauntingly realistic mannequins.

Moreover, the museum is housed in a historic building that has its own unique charm, so take a moment to appreciate the architecture while you’re there.

Pro tip: 

Make sure to spend some time at the sections covering the trade unions and women’s suffrage movements; they’re both fascinating and educational.

Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help keep the museum running.

Sip luxurious afternoon tea at The Dome

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Website: https://www.thedomeedinburgh.com/ 
Address: 14 George St.
Contact details: +44 131 624 8624
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 12 AM
Cost: ££- £££

Rain or shine, the Dome on George Street is an absolute treat. It offers an afternoon tea experience that’s as luxurious as it gets.

First things first, the tea itself is top-quality, served with a selection of gourmet sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of pastries and cakes. You may also want to take your time to appreciate the selection of teas.

They have a substantial menu offering everything from the classic Earl Grey to exotic blends you might not have heard of before. Also, look out for seasonal delights that can add a little twist to your afternoon tea.

Pro tip: 

Booking is essential, especially if you’re planning to visit on the weekend. Grab a window seat if you can; it’s perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city vibes from a cosy corner.

Unearth rare books at the National Library of Scotland

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Website: http://www.nls.uk/ 
Address: George IV Bridge
Contact details: +44 131 623 3700
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Cost: Free entry

For book lovers and history buffs stuck indoors, the National Library of Scotland is a haven. This place is a treasure trove of rare books, historic documents, and fascinating exhibitions that can easily keep you occupied for hours.

Here, you can spend some time in the reading rooms, where you can request rare manuscripts or simply browse through their extensive catalogue. 

The digital reading room is another great way to access loads of rare content without even having to touch a delicate old book.

Pro tip: 

Don’t miss their special exhibitions; they often delve into compelling subjects with great use of multimedia and original artefacts.

If you’re planning to dig into the rare collections, it’s best to make a request in advance through their website. Trust me, you wouldn’t want to miss examining these incredible works up close.

Enjoy movies and games at Fountain Park

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Website: http://www.fountainpark.co.uk/ 
Address: 130 Dundee St.
Contact details: +44 131 228 9784
Operating hours: Open 24 hours

Fountain Park has a little bit of everything to keep you busy. First off, there’s a fantastic cinema that shows the latest blockbusters as well as some indie flicks, perfect for a cosy movie day.

If you’re the competitive type, there’s also a high-energy bowling alley where you can rack up some strikes with friends or family. Beyond movies and bowling, there’s a slew of arcade games to bring out your inner child.

From classic pinball to state-of-the-art video games, the arcade offers a little something for everyone. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of dining options within Fountain Park, offering everything from quick bites to more elaborate meals.

Pro tip: 

Don’t forget to check out the mini-golf; it’s an indoor course, so you can keep the fun going regardless of the weather.

Also, keep an eye out for their combo deals and special promotions online. They often have great offers for movie tickets and game packages if you book in advance.

Catch a mesmerising show at the Edinburgh Playhouse

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Website: https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/edinburgh-playhouse 
Address: 18-22 Greenside Pl.
Operating hours: Depends on event schedule

The Edinburgh Playhouse boasts a rich history and has hosted some of the most brilliant performances you can imagine. From dazzling musicals and gripping dramas to rib-tickling comedies, there’s always something to captivate you.

The variety of shows they offer means there’s something for everyone. What’s more, they frequently have other events like concerts and special guest performances.

It’s always good to check their schedule beforehand, so you don’t miss out on something extraordinary. And, of course, being in the city centre means grabbing a bite before or after the show is super convenient.

Pro tip: 

Remember to book your tickets in advance, especially if there’s a popular show running. Seats can fill up quickly, and some of the best ones might be gone if you wait until the last minute.

Relish retro gaming at NQ64 Edinburgh

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Website: http://www.nq64.co.uk/edinburgh 
Address: 25 Lothian Rd.
Contact details: +44 131 609 0732
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 4 PM to 3 AM
  • Saturday and Sunday – 12 PM to 3 AM

Cost: From £18 per person (w/a cup of game tokens and 2 drink tokens)

NQ64 Edinburgh is a haven for retro gaming enthusiasts and those who love a blast from the past. When you walk in, you’ll be greeted by a great collection of classic arcade games and old-school consoles.

It’s so easy to get lost in the charm of pixelated graphics and simple yet addictive gameplay. From Pac-Man and Space Invaders to Mario Kart on the Nintendo 64, it’s all there.

NQ64 isn’t just about gaming, though. They’ve got a killer selection of retro-themed drinks, like craft beer, a cocktail, or something non-alcoholic.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you go during off-peak hours if you can, since it tends to get pretty busy, especially on weekends. That way, you’ll have a better chance of snagging your favourite game without having to wait.

Scale indoor walls at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena

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Website: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/venues/edinburgh-international-climbing-arena 
Address: South Platt Hill, Newbridge
Contact details: +44 131 458 2100
Operating hours: 

  • Monday, Wednesday, and Friday – 9 AM to 9 PM
  • Tuesday and Thursday – 9 AM to 10 PM
  • Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM

Cost: Casual visit

  • Climb – £14.50
  • Bouldering only – £10.99

The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena is jaw-droppingly massive and offers all sorts of climbing challenges. It has everything from bouldering to roped climbs that cater to all skill levels.

They provide all the necessary gear, so you don’t need to worry if you don’t have your own. Plus, there are experienced instructors on hand to guide you through your climbs and help improve your technique.

The best part? The sense of accomplishment you feel after conquering a challenging route is unbeatable.

Pro tip: 

Make sure to wear comfortable, stretchy clothes. Even though they have gear for rent, bringing your own climbing shoes can make a big difference in your experience.

Indulge in sweet treats at The Chocolatarium

Website: https://www.chocolatarium.co.uk/ 
Address: 3-5 Cranston St.
Contact details: +44 117 205 1079
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: 

  • Tour of chocolate – £25 (Adults), £17 (Children ages 6 and above) 
  • Truffle-Making experience – £39
  • Chocolate & Whisky experience – £44
  • Chocolate & Wine experience – £44

For those with a sweet tooth, the Chocolatarium is a must-visit. The tours here are fascinating – you explore where chocolate comes from, how it’s made, and, best of all, you get to taste a variety of chocolates!

You also get hands-on experience making your own chocolate, which is super fun. The staff here will guide you through the entire process, from bean to bar, and share some nifty little secrets along the way.

Plus, the boutique shop offers unique and high-quality chocolates that make perfect souvenirs or gifts. And let’s be honest, chocolate just has this magical way of lifting spirits, no matter how gloomy the weather is outside.

Pro tip: 

If you’re booking a tour, do it online ahead of time, as they often sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons. Plus, opting for the full chocolate workshop is totally worth it for the extra experience.

Dive into science wonders at Dynamic Earth

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Website: http://www.dynamicearth.org.uk/ 
Address: Holyrood Rd.
Contact details: +44 131 550 7800
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Cost: 

  • Adult – £19.50
  • Child (ages 4 to 15) – £12
  • Concession (Student, Seniors ages 65+) – £16.75
  • Ages 4 and under – Free

Dynamic Earth is an immersive, interactive experience that takes you on a journey through our planet’s history. From the Big Bang to the future, it’s all about understanding the natural world and our place in it.

The exhibits here are super engaging, with plenty of hands-on activities and impressive visuals that both kids and adults will love. They also have a 360-degree Showdome, which is incredibly cool.

It’s basically a planetarium that shows immersive films, giving you the feel of flying through space or deep-diving into the ocean. The Rainforest Adventure and Deep Time Machine are must-sees; they’re both interactive and educational.

Pro tip: 

Don’t forget to check out their calendar for special events or exhibits before you go. Plus, their café has some pretty good snacks to refuel after your exploration.

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