Museum of Childhood

The museum is typically open Thursday through Monday from 10:00 to 17:00, remaining closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. For 2026, admission remains completely free for all visitors, though voluntary donations are welcomed to help maintain the delicate collection. You do not need to book a ticket in advance, making it an easy addition to any afternoon stroll down the High Street. The ground floor was recently refurbished to include a bright, modern gallery showcasing rare objects like the Kindertransport bear and a 1970s Fisher-Price telephone. A small museum shop is located at the entrance, offering vintage-style toys and locally themed gifts. Note that the last entry is usually thirty minutes before closing.

Because the Museum of Childhood is housed in a historic building with several floors, visitors should be aware that accessibility is partial. While there is a lift to the first three galleries, the upper floors (Galleries 4 and 5) are currently only reachable by stairs. If you have a heavy stroller, there is a dedicated "buggy park" area near the entrance. The museum can be quite a sensory experience with its slot machines and occasional background music; for those who prefer a quieter visit, early mornings on weekdays are the best bet. Unlike many modern attractions, this museum focuses on the preservation of history, so while there are some interactive zones for dress-up and drawing, many of the toys are kept safely behind glass to protect them for future generations.

The Museum of Childhood is located at 42 High Street, right in the heart of the Royal Mile’s pedestrianized zone. From Edinburgh Waverley station, it is an easy ten-minute walk—simply head up the Scotsman Steps and turn left toward the Canongate. Numerous Lothian buses stop nearby at South Bridge or North Bridge, including the 3, 5, 7, 8, 29, and 31. If you are arriving from the New Town via tram, the St Andrew Square stop is about a fifteen-minute walk away. There is no on-site parking, and driving in the Old Town is discouraged due to one-way systems and pedestrian-only streets. If you require a drop-off point, the nearest available spot for taxis is usually just around the corner on Jeffrey Street.