Hotels near National Museum of Scotland, Scotland

For the ideal weekend family break we couldn’t leave out one of Great Britain’s Top 10 visitor attractions – National Museum of Scotland – the perfect place to inspire your imagination.

A whirlwind of adventure and discovery awaits – from nature, art and design to fashion, science and technology, Scotland’s history is right here, together under one remarkable roof, and it’s brilliant for young and old alike.

For history buffs it’s a no-brainer, with paintings and artefacts from Scotland’s past dating all the way back to Viking days. Natural history enthusiasts can travel even further back in time, walking next to dinosaurs and uncovering the secrets of rock formation.

But this is a place for the whole family to enjoy. Take a run in a giant hamster wheel and learn about the life of Dolly the Sheep: the first ever cloned animal, now a permanent fixture at the Museum.

Harry Potter fan? You’re in luck. This is the place to see the Lewis Chessmen – made famous in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – a real treat for the kids (and grown-up kids). Everyone will return from the weekend break with some magical memories of their own wizarding experience.

Let the Grand Gallery take your breath away. Here you’ll find the Giant Deer skeleton and the huge skull of Moby the Whale. And for something completely different, get to grips with the pioneering machines used to break atoms into tiny pieces.

Round off your visit by heading to the roof terrace, a serene place to drink in the amazing, panoramic views of Edinburgh. Your family break in Scotland is just beginning as you survey the many places to visit. We’d recommend Edinburgh Castle as your next stop but you really are spoiled for choice.

The good news is that Edinburgh is very easy to get around so you can visit the Museum and be only minutes away from your next destination. If legs are getting tired then the excellent local tram system is easy to navigate. If you want to add some exercise to your weekend break then why not take the family for a climb up Calton Hill, the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site? Once again the views are great and there are lots of interesting sights including the stunning National monument.