What to do – What to see

At the festivals with kids in tow? Fortunately, there's experts about. Artists have kids, too – and they know how to keep them entertained

feature (edinburgh) | Read in About 3 minutes
Published 26 Jul 2018

Andrew Maxwell, comedian

What to do: I love taking the family up to Arthur's Seat and playing hide and seek with the dog in tow! That's a family tradition – we do it every year. And hanging out in the sun on George Square!

What to see: Baby Loves Disco (ages 0-6, The Jam House, times and dates vary) with the Mrs and the baby is a must. The one I'm looking forward to taking the kids to see is Dick and Dom: Dick v Dom (ages 5+, Underbelly Bristo Square, 1pm) as I have a 14 and 16-year old! They will love it!

Ben Pettitt-Wade, director of The Flop

What to do: Last time I was there we climbed Arthur’s Seat with Betsy (four) and Charlie (one). Betsy loved it, climbed all the way on her own and was buzzing with the view from the top. Charlie slept.
 
What to see: I’m looking forward to Duckie by Le Gateau Chocolate at Summerhall (ages 3+, Summerhall, 2:00pm). Looks like it might be an interesting take on the classic Ugly Duckling tale.

William Andrews, comedian

What to do: You know kids – nothing they like more than CIVIL ENGINEERING PROJECTS. I'm talking Forth bridges, dads (actually there are three). Bus to South Queensferry, ice cream and a wander. You can thank me later. 

What to see: Get on board with Fun Kids Radio's Epic Roadshow Adventure (ages 3-14, Underbelly Bristo Square, 1:15pm). Utterly brilliant. Warning: YOU WILL BE INTERACTED WITH, but if you didn't want to be slightly embarrassed in public, maybe you shouldn't have had kids?  

Abigail Burgess, actor in Kin

What to do: Ride the terrifying Ferris wheel on Princes Street. Or, if your kids are less daredevil, go up and down the escalators at Jenners.

What to see: The Showstoppers’ Kids Show (ages 3-10, Pleasance Courtyard, 11:00am) is actually fun for adults too, to get a glimpse into your kids' amazing little brains.

Laurence Clark, comedian

What to do: Despite all the kids' shows and other cultural activities, my kids’ favourite thing by miles is the free ping-pong table in the BBC area!

What to see: My younger son can’t wait to see Dick v Dom (ages 5+, Underbelly Bristo Square, 1pm) because he loves them in the Horrid Henry movie and is naturally uber-competitive!

Ben Hanlin, magician

What to do: I love walking to Stockbridge in the mornings. It’s a quiet little part of the city and at the weekend there is a farmers' market with loads of great food to taste. There are also some great cafes to sit in and get a solid brekkie to start the day! 

What to see: I’m definitely going to see Card Ninja (ages 8+, Gilded Balloon Teviot, 1:30pm)! I didn’t see it last time I was at the Fringe. It’s a show where you see crazy card stunts, and playing cards are turned into weapons!