Museum of Childhood
Toy history
Though it piques the interest of countless kids, the rather dated Museum of Childhood is mainly aimed at older vintage toy fans.
Expect dozens of glass cabinets full of antique toys: the selection is huge, but teddy bears, dolls and rocking horses particularly feature, as do lots of model cars and trains.
All these were, rather curiously, originally collected by someone who didn't like children!
The museum is more forgiving though, with a small activity section and gift shop aimed at kids, some of whom will also enjoy seeing what their grandparents might have played with.
The museum is close to the People's Story and the Museum of Edinburgh, so try combining all three free museums to get the best sense of the Edinburgh of yesteryear.