Our child was excited when he heard about this pla...

Our child was excited when he heard about this place, while both his parents were a bit lukewarm about going. He proved us wrong!

There are about 6 levels in the building, and the top of course has the camera obscura, operating as it did in the Victorian heyday of such devices. The entry costs are comparable to other attractions on the Royal Mile, and there is certainly plenty to see inside. You need at least 2 hours, maybe more if you do some things a few times.

Make sure you look around and above you as you move around each level, as there are lots of things placed in slightly out of the way places for you to find. We entered late in the afternoon in winter, so the camera was not operating (it requires sunlight!), but if that is the case, you can opt for a discount or to extend your ticket for another day to catch the camera in operation.

On the day we came back we saw the camera in operation. The camera itself is in a dark room operated by a staff member, who gives a lively talk as the viewfinder is moved across the city skyline. It s about a 15min experience just for the camera and very worth it.

Besides seeing the camera on the re-visit, we went through the floor with the maze and tunnel again... just because it was so much fun for all of us.

Ask the staff about any of the exhibits as they can give you ideas about how to get even more challenge out of some items - adding depth to the educational experience.

(Afterwards, if you need to adult , then go directly across the street, where there is a ride and a more than expected kid friendly experience!)