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.

Exhibitions and events

Teatime

Permanent exhibition

The Museum of Childhood is showing a selection of its toy tea sets featuring designs from Willow Pattern to Walt Disney. Tea sets in all shapes and sizes made from pottery, tin and plastic are on...