Free Museums in Windygates

"The National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street offers a range of galleries including four impressive levels of exhibits dedicated to Science and technology, a Scottish history gallery and in the Natural World section, you can get up close to a dinosaur skeleton and the kids will no doubt love to have their photo taken next to the lions. Admission is free but customers should book to a slot."

"If you fancy a wee trip down memory lane, head to the Museum of Childhood. Located on the Royal Mile, this quirky museum is spread across four floors and covers many eras of toys and games. It gives you an idea of playthings over the years starting from the 18th through to the 21st century."

"This was the first museum in the world to be dedicated to childhood, with exhibitions on toys, games, and other memorabilia."

"This phenomenal museum celebrates the beauty of the earth via innovative technology. It is situated at the opposite end of the Old Town from the castle, near Holyrood Palace in the shadow of the crags and Arthur's Seat. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to experience simulated earthquakes, tropical rainstorms, the ocean floor, ice ages, glaciers and mountains."

"Situated at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, this gallery is one of 15 in the UK that houses the Royal Collection, the largest private art collection in the world. This is a fascinating record of the personal tastes of kings and queens over the past 500 years, comprising decorative arts, drawings, watercolours, paintings and photographs. Those that have made contributions to the collection over the years include Frederick Prince of Wales, George IV, Queen Victoria and Queen Mary."

"I went to the Queen’s Gallery instead, which showcases a small subset of the art that is found within the royal, private collection. ***For the Queen’s Gallery, tickets are £7.00 for adults, £6.40 for adults over 60 or students (with valid ID), £3.50 for children under 17 or the disabled, and children under 5 are free.The Queen’s Gallery is open daily from 9:30 am – 6:00 pm."

"The Queen's Gallery, located in the Palace of Holyroodhouse, was opened by Her Majesty The Queen in November 2002 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations. Now, it hosts a programme of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. A worthwhile stop on a visit to the Royal Mile."

"Sister to the Museum of Edinburgh and also set on the Royal Mile – this time in the 1591 Tolbooth building – this oral history museum delves into the lives of working people in the city, from the 18th century to the late 20th century. You’ll see recreations of a bookbinder’s workshop, a wartime kitchen complete with vintage packaging and a grisly jail cell."

"This second free museum in Edinburgh is dedicated to the real working-class people of Edinburgh. Images, objects and personal stories are used to document the lives of locals between the 18th and 20th centuries. Spend an hour browsing."

"Beautifully set in a circular cast-iron building that was once a waterworks, this gallery exhibits an extensive collection of paintings by the Scottish Colourist JD Fergusson in a most impressive display...."

"Hemingway’s, a brand-new bar and restaurant overlooking The Shore, is set to become the go-to place for sophisticated yet relaxed drinking and dining in Leith. Hemingway’s offers a regular menu of speciality cocktails and seasonal small plates from their luxurious library-inspired bar and restaurant. The drinks menu is equally as inspiring, with a selection of bespoke house cocktails served alongside premium spirits and speciality wines and beers."

"Expect animalistic behaviours at Monkey Barrel so funny that everyone starts swinging off the trees. This club seats up to 100 persons at a time and those that quiver at the thought of being within view and thus within the target range of comedians may want to take caution. Situated at their own venue of No. 9 Blair Street, this venue is a playground for some cracking established Scottish comedians and up-and-coming acts, too."