National Galleries Scotland: Modern One

Modern One offers a refreshingly accessible introduction to contemporary art for families, with dedicated interactive spaces and activity backpacks that turn gallery exploration into an adventure. The stunning sculpture-filled grounds provide the perfect balance to indoor viewing, letting kids run free among world-class artworks while parents enjoy the beautiful parkland setting.

• ✓Interactive family backpacks with art-making materials and discovery activities
• ✓Dedicated family room with hands-on creative activities
• ✓Outdoor sculpture park perfect for running and exploring
• ✓Regular family workshops and special events during school holidays
• ✓Charles Jencks' Landform sculpture, a grass-covered earthwork kids can climb and explore

1. 1.Pick up a free family backpack at the entrance, filled with activity cards, drawing materials, and games that make exploring the galleries interactive and fun.
2. 2.Start outdoors with the sculpture park to let kids burn energy first, then head inside when they're ready for quieter exploration.
3. 3.Visit on weekday mornings (especially Tuesday or Wednesday) for the quietest experience and more space for kids to explore.
4. 4.The cafe serves excellent kid-friendly meals and the terrace overlooks the sculptures, perfect for a mid-visit break.
5. 5.Free admission makes this ideal for short visits if attention spans wane, you can always return another day without wasting money.

Weekday mornings between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM offer the calmest experience. Spring and early autumn are ideal when the grounds are beautiful but not crowded with peak tourist season visitors.

Admission is completely free (donations welcome). On-site parking is available but limited, so consider taking a taxi or bus from central Edinburgh (about 20 minutes). The cafe offers children's menus and high chairs.

The sculpture grounds are accessible year-round but most enjoyable in dry weather from April to October. Special family workshops and activities are offered during Scottish school holidays (check website for dates). Note that Scottish school holidays differ from English ones.

The Water of Leith Cafe Bistro (10-minute walk) offers family-friendly Scottish fare with outdoor seating by the river. Alternatively, head to Stockbridge neighborhood (15-minute walk) for numerous cafes and restaurants with kids' menus.