Museum of Childhood Edinburgh

About Museum of Childhood Edinburgh

The Museum of Childhood has a place in the hearts of millions. The first museum in the world dedicated to the history of childhood, it displays toys and games from across the generations. The Museum also explores other aspects of growing up, from schooldays and clubs to clothing, health and holidays.

Children will love seeing teddies, dolls, trains and pedal cars up-close. They can listen to the sounds of a 1930s schoolroom and see a recreated Victorian street complete with outdoor toys. They can even get hands-on with our dressing up costumes and games.

Our wonderful collection includes early Steiff Bears and a delicate 18th century ‘Queen Anne’ doll, dressed in the latest fashion of the times. The Stanbrig Eorls dolls house is a firm favourite with visitors. Its 21 rooms contain over 2,000 items, from tiny towels in the bathroom to skittles in the nursery. Our miniature 1880s butcher’s shop is another favourite. Covered in prime cuts of ‘meat’, it is supervised by its own miniature butcher.

But it’s not just kids that love the Museum; adults can enjoy a slice of childhood nostalgia. Whether it’s a Corgi car or a Barbie doll, there will be something to make you say ‘I had one of those!’

The Museum of Childhood is set in two historic buildings straddling South Gray’s Close on the Royal Mile. Both buildings were constructed in the 18th century. The eastern building was home to some well-known figures of Edinburgh society, while the western building housed a theatre, and later an ironmongers.

All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact. We take every opportunity to ensure the details for Museum of Childhood Edinburgh are accurate, please contact us at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk if any of the above information is incorrect.

Upcoming Events at Museum of Childhood Edinburgh

More History and Culture in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle Castlehill, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 2NG

Edinburgh Castle dominates Scotland's capital city from its great rock. Its story has helped shape the nation's story.
Read more

The Real Mary Kings Close

2 Warriston's Close, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 1PG

Edinburgh's deepest secret, the Real Mary King’s Close is buried deep beneath the Royal Mile... a warren of hidden streets that has remained frozen in time since the 17th Century!
Read more

Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel Chapel Loan, Roslin EH25 9PU

Owned by The Earl and Countess of RosslynRosslyn Chapel was founded in 1446 as a place of worship and services continue to be held here weekly. The Chapel...
Read more

The Peoples Story Museum

163 Canongate , Edinburgh Old Town EH8 8BN

The People’s Story explores the lives of Edinburgh’s ordinary people. From work to home, healthcare to social activities, people of the past are brough...
Read more

Greater Grassmarket

Greater Grassmarket Business Improvement District 39 Grassmarket, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 2HS

Steeped in some of Edinburgh’s greatest history, Greater Grassmarket is only a minutes' walk from the popular Royal Mile and visitor favourite, the...
Read more

Preston Mill and Phantassie Doocot

Preston Mill and Phantassie Doocot Preston Road, East Linton EH40 3DS

Preston Mill is an architectural oddity that will beguile visitors as much as it delights painters and photographers.
Read more

Linlithgow Museum

Linlithgow Partnership Centre 93 High Street , Linlithgow EH49 7EZ

A free museum, perfect for locals and visitors alike. Find out about our Royal connections, the trades of the town, the ordinary - and extra-ordinary! - people.
Read more

Prestongrange Museum

Prestongrange Museum Morrisons Haven, Prestonpans EH32 9RX

Prestongrange is a free open-air museum, that tells 700 years of industrial heritage history. Family friendly, with lots to see and do!
Read more

Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddles Court

Riddle's Court 322 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 2PG

Inspired by Geddes' educational philosophy, the Patrick Geddes Centre fosters learning for all through 'Hand, Heart and Head', learning by 'doing'.
Read more

Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow Palace Kirkgate, Linlithgow EH49 7AL

Explore the magnificent ruins of the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Linlithgow Palace was built and added to over two centuries by the Stewart kings, resulting in a superb Renaissance residence.
Read more

All History and Culture listings in Edinburgh

Sponsored Links

Popular Events

Popular Venues