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Things to do in Edinburgh This Father’s Day

29th May 2025

Kick off the season with our list of the best things to do in Edinburgh this summer, from Father’s Day to beyond. Enjoy everything from a trip to the Edinburgh underground vaults to a deep dive into World War II history. 

 

1. Enlightenment Edinburgh: June Exclusive Tour  

The Enlightenment in Edinburgh transformed philosophy, history, science and literature. During this time, the foundations were laid for modern economics and inspired great leaps in modern medicine. 

But how did Scotland’s capital gain its reputation as the Athens of the North? And what was it about the city that inspired so many thinkers? 

Take part in this exclusive tour on 28 June, which is free for EH residents! 

Learn more about this Edinburgh history tour here.

A statue of David Hume in Edinburgh, dressed like a Greek philosopher and with one toe rubbed to shiny brass.  

 

2. Edinburgh Castle: Memories from the 2nd World War  

Of all the places to visit in Edinburgh, the castle is an obvious must-see. Time your visit to coincide with their new WWII exhibit at the National war Museum. 

This exhibit combines personal stories and photography to explore the use of maps in the Second World War. Uncover the stories of Prisoners of War, RAF pilots, Brigadiers and army chaplains through the maps they kept. 

Learn more here.

Edinburgh Castle perched atop craggy rocks, being lit by direct sunlight.

 

3. Edinburgh Whisky Tour & Tasting  

If you're interested in a whisky tasting Edinburgh has a lot to offer. Why not choose one that dives into not only how whisky is made, but also its centuries-long past? 

Your Master Storyteller will take you to the places to visit in Edinburgh if you’re interested in the history of Scotland’s national drink before leading you into the Edinburgh underground vaults for a few drams. 

Learn more here.

Four people sit at a wooden table in the candlelit Megget’s Cellar, being led through an Edinburgh whisky tasting by a Mercat Storyteller. 

 

4. Cold War Scotland: Museum Exhibition  

Scots played an active role in the Cold War, from voluntary civil roles to working in intelligence services. 

This exhibition is a collaboration between National Museums Scotland and the University of Stirling. Explore Cold War heritage and the way museums tell stories. 

Learn more here

The main hall of the National Museum of Scotland: three levels of balconies looking onto a hall filled with interactive displays. 

 

5. The World of King James VI & I Exhibition  

The king who united the thrones. The son of Mary, Queen of Scots. The man who persecuted witches. 

King James VI & I is often overshadowed by his mother and his son, but his own story is wrapped up in themes that connect to us today: national identity, queer history, belief and spirituality. 

This new exhibition at the National Galleries Scotland: the Portrait on York Place.  

Learn more here.

The front entrance to the National Portrait Gallery Scotland, featuring intricately detailed carvings in red sandstone and gothic window details.

© VisitScotland (Kenny Lam)

 

6. Edinburgh Experience Gift Voucher 

A dark ghost tour of Edinburgh? A Royal Mile history tour? A whisky tasting in the Edinburgh vaults?  

Gift an experience but let them choose the perfect tour! When you gift a voucher, they can pick everything from an Edinburgh underground tour to a history tour of Edinburgh Castle. 

Learn  more here

£20 and £10 gift vouchers, surrounded by candles and lanterns. 

 

From an unforgettable Edinburgh whisky tour to our favourite places to visit in Edinburgh, you’ll never run out of things to do in Scotland’s capital. Whether you’re building your holiday itinerary or finding ways to celebrate dad, we’re here to help you find the best things to do in Edinburgh this summer. 

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