Name: National War Museum
Rating: 5.0

National War Museum

National War Museum, Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK

1-99 Years

Description

The National War Museum is one of the best things to do with kids in Edinburgh for those interested in history. Located within the historic walls of Edinburgh Castle, this museum offers a deep dive into Scotland's military past. Families can explore over 400 years of conflict through a vast collection of military objects, artwork, and personal stories.

Entry to the museum is free, but you must purchase a ticket for Edinburgh Castle to access the site. Prices for Edinburgh Castle vary by the time of booking and peak demand, so it is best to check their website directly for current rates.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, the National War Museum provides an engaging look at military heritage. With its accessible galleries and location inside one of Scotland's most famous landmarks, it is a perfect destination for curious minds of all ages.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Key Features

Military History Collection: Explore hundreds of years of Scottish military history through a unique collection of weaponry, uniforms, and equipment.
Personal Stories: Gain insight into the lives of soldiers through an intimate display of letters, diaries, and personal effects from past campaigns.
Accessible Galleries: The museum is fully accessible via lifts, and an adapted vehicle is available to assist visitors getting to the museum entrance.
Educational Environment: A fantastic setting for families studying war, conflict, or local history, with plenty of descriptive displays to guide your visit.

What to See

The Thin Red Line: View the famous painting by Robert Gibb, which has become an iconic representation of Scottish military history.
Highland Broadswords: Discover the artistry and utility of traditional weaponry used by Scottish forces over the centuries.
Medal Displays: Explore an impressive collection of military medals, which help tell the stories of individual bravery and service.
Uniforms Through Time: See how military fashion and protective equipment have evolved from ancient armour to modern chemical warfare suits.
Maps: Memories from the Second World War: An exhibition charting the creation and use of maps during the war through photography and memorabilia.

Facilities

Toilets: Available on the ground floor, including baby changing facilities.
Shop: A museum shop is available on-site for books and souvenirs.
Cafés: Visitors can use the Redcoat Café or the Tea Rooms located elsewhere within Edinburgh Castle.
Accessibility: All galleries are accessible via lifts; a courtesy vehicle is available for transport within the castle grounds.

Pro-Tips

Book Ahead: Edinburgh Castle uses timed entry; booking your castle ticket in advance is essential to guarantee your spot.
Transport: The museum is a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station.
Check Accessibility: If you require the mobility vehicle for transport within the castle, it is recommended to contact the castle team in advance to check availability.

Targeted FAQs

Is it worth it for toddlers? The museum is best suited for older children (8+) who have an interest in history, as the exhibits are primarily static and educational; toddlers may find the themes less engaging than interactive play-focused centres.
How long does a visit take? Most visitors spend between 1 and 2 hours exploring the National War Museum’s galleries, though this does not include the time needed to see the rest of the castle.
Where is the best place to park? Parking is limited near the castle; it is highly recommended to use public transport or park in city centre car parks and walk up to the castle entrance.

The Visitor Verdict: What Parents Really Think
What Visitors Love

The ability to combine a visit to the museum with the broader experience of exploring the castle.
The intimate nature of the personal diaries and letters, which makes the historical facts feel more relatable.
The clear layout and accessibility options, which make it easier for families to navigate the space.

What Visitors Don't Like

The museum can be busy, especially during peak tourist seasons, which may impact the ease of moving around displays.
Some younger children may find the military nature of the exhibits less engaging than interactive play-focused centres.

What to see

Detailed Inventory

The museum houses a significant collection of items related to Scottish military life. Key objects to look for include:
Highland Broadswords: Traditional hand-to-hand combat weapons.
Letters Home: Personal correspondence from soldiers serving on foreign campaigns.
Chemical Warfare Suits: Specialized equipment showing the evolution of protective gear.
Military Medals: A vast array of honours and decorations awarded to Scottish personnel.
Regimental Uniforms: Authentic garments worn by soldiers from different eras.
Robert Gibb’s "The Thin Red Line": An iconic oil painting depicting the 93rd Highlanders.
Sir David Wilkie Paintings: Artworks depicting scenes of military life and history.
John Singleton Copley Art: Historical paintings capturing military subjects.
Diary Extracts: Personal accounts of life on the front lines.
Ordnance Equipment: Various tools and hardware used in military operations.

Beyond the Main Attraction

Since the museum is located inside Edinburgh Castle, you can explore several other major sites:
The Honours of Scotland: See the Crown Jewels of Scotland, also housed within the castle.
The Stone of Destiny: An ancient symbol of Scotland's monarchy.
Scottish National War Memorial: Located within the castle walls, this is a solemn and significant site for remembrance.
Royal Mile: Walk just outside the castle gates to explore the historic heart of Edinburgh.

New for 2026

The feature exhibition "Maps: Memories from the Second World War" is currently running until 4 October 2026, offering a unique perspective on how mapping influenced wartime strategy and personal stories.
Global Scale: Learn how over 3,000 million maps were produced between 1939 and 1945 for Allied, Soviet, and German forces.
Survival Tools: See how maps were used for everything from navigating dense jungles to devising high-stakes escape plans.
Personal Mementoes: Explore maps kept by soldiers alongside their medals and photographs as physical reminders of their service.
Unique Artifacts: View unusual items, such as a fashionable dress crafted specifically from escape and evasion maps.

Events: For more upcoming events please visit here.

Website

Contact

Video

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

The National War Museum does not offer standard birthday party packages. For private event or venue hire inquiries, please contact the museum team through the National Museums Scotland website.

Apr - Sep, Open daily: 09:45 - 17:45
Oct - Mar, Open daily: 09:45 - 16:45
Closed: 25 Dec, 26 Dec.

Address: National War Museum, Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK

Post Code: EH1 2NG

Council: Edinburgh

County: Edinburgh and Lothia

By bus: A number of buses go via Edinburgh city centre and stop at the Royal Mile and George IV Bridge. Edinburgh Castle is a few minutes’ walk from the Royal Mile to Castlehill.
By train: The nearest train station is Edinburgh Waverley. Edinburgh Castle is a 15 minute walk up Market Street to the Castle Esplanade via either Ramsay Gardens or the Royal Mile. The road is quite steep, so visitors with mobility difficulties may wish to use the taxi rank at the station.
By tram: The nearest tram stop is on Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle is a 10–15 minute walk up the Mound.
By bike: Located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, the National War Museum is easy to reach by bike. There is no bicycle rack at the castle. Bike racks are available nearby at Victoria Street, Waverley Station and Chambers Street.
Parking: There is no parking at Edinburgh Castle. However, a limited number of parking spaces for Blue Badge holders are available. Edinburgh Castle is at the top of the Royal Mile, close to Princes Street and Edinburgh City Centre. Pay and display parking is available in nearby streets. Castle Terrace and Johnston Terrace have the nearest on-street parking zones.