Best Museums in Merchiston

"Visit the Free Museums in Edinburgh on the Royal Mile Since you’re on the Royal Miles, you should definitely take advantage of the many free museums that you can find along it’s length. Some of our favourites include the Edinburgh Museum, the Writers Museum and the Museum of Childhood. You can read much more about what is in each of these museums and why you might want to visit them in Jess’s excellent post on the highlights of Edinburgh."

"The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, Scotland, was formed in 2006 with the merger of the new Museum of Scotland, and the adjacent Royal Scottish Museum. The exterior, designed in a Venetian Renaissance style, contrasts sharply with the light-flooded main hall or Grand Gallery, inspired by The Crystal Palace."

"The National Museum of Scotland tells the story of the country through interesting exhibitions, from prehistoric times until the present day."

"Despite there being millions of children in the world, there’s only one Museum of Childhood. This is one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh for families thanks to its fun and interactive exhibits. There are lots of games and toys including a few with emotional stories, for example a teddy bear that travelled on a Kindertransport train destined to rescue children from Nazi Germany."

"Kids can learn about the toys, clothes and lifestyles of children of the past in this Royal Mile museum. Nostalgia for grown-ups guaranteed.42 High Street, 529 4142, edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venues/museum-of-childhood, Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun noon–5pm."

"Learn about the creation of our planet and travel through time as we explore Earth's past, present and future. Get thrust back in time to the very beginnings of our universe, and witness first hand the big bang and the very first moments of our galaxy and solar system. Make your way back to the present day through volcanic explosions, landscape-forming glaciers and the evolution of our life on Earth."

"A short stroll from the foot of the Royal Mile, Our Dynamic Earth is a hugely popular attraction that tells the story of our planet’s past, present and future. Children and grownups alike will love exploring exhibits like the Time Machine and Future Dome."

"The People's Story - as the name suggests - tells the story of the regular people of Edinburgh, not just the great and the good. Pay a visit to this museum to get a real flavour of day-to-day life in in the city throughout the 18th to 20th centuries. Learn about crime and punishment, crafts, trade and the culture of Edinburgh."

"Getting to the People’s Story Museum : This museum is located on the other side of the road to the Museum of Edinburgh. So just a 9 minute walk from St Christopher’s Inns Edinburgh. Photo credit: The People's Story Museum"

"The People’s Story offers a look at a different side of Edinburgh’s history, focussing on the lives of the everyday citizens."

"Transport yourself to the Outlander set at Callendar Park & House. Callendar Park & House was used for one of the most well-known Outlander scenes as the Duke of Sandringham’s home."

"Canongate, The Royal Mile, EH8 8DX (website) Open daily 9:30am-6pm (26 March to 31 October) and 9:30am-4.30pm (1 November to 25 March)Adult: £6.70, Over 60/Students £6.10, Under 17/Disabled: £3.40, unders 5's go free. If you like art but find conventional art galleries too big and daunting, then the Queen's Gallery is the answer, as it hosts small intimate exhibitions as part of the Royal Collection Trust. The building is a conversion of a former Holyrood Free Church and Duchess of Gordon’s School and features a beautiful teak and sycamore staircase."

"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."

"The Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Queens Gallery lie at the east end of The Royal Mile, opposite the Scottish Parliament. The visit is best achieved by taxi, local bus service from Waverley Bridge or tour bus. Walking takes around 15 minutes from Waverley Station."

"An ideal place for a first date, Jamie’s Italian is renowned for delicious food and smashing service. From the scarlet walls and dimmed lighting to the glistening chandeliers, red velvet chairs and ornate ceiling, Jamie Oliver’s restaurant, which is situated within The Assembly Rooms on George Street, is decadent and wildly romantic. Foodies will no doubt salivate over the perfectly cooked al dente pasta and other top eats."

"Gusto Italian has been a mainstay of elegant George St. dining for almost 15 years. Serving the best in authentic Italian food and chic cocktails, Gusto has remained close to the heart of Edinburgh locals and tourists alike. They specialize in catering to all dietary requirements with over 30% of the menu available as Vegan."

"Another staple on our radar is anything created by Jamie Olivier. If you have read our guide to London with kids, or my quick trip to Rotterdam, you will know the lengths I will go to in order to experience a Jamie Oliver restaurant."