Are you thinking of going to the Edinburgh Fringe with a baby? You’re not alone and you’re definitely not mad!
Edinburgh Fringe 2025 is nearly here! Yes, it’s busy. Yes, there are cobbles but we’re here with our handy family friendly guide to how you can absolutely enjoy the magic of the fringe with your little person in tow!
Choose the Right Shows & Smart Venues
Look for:
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Relaxed, sensory performances
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Family friendly events
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Outdoor, open air street theatre
Some suggestions:
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Monski Mouse’s Baby Cabaret at Assembly George Square Gardens - a nursery sing-a-long packed with puppetry and playful tunes!
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Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall at the same Assembly location - high energy dancing that’s toddler‑tested and parent‑approved!
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Celeste’s Circus at Scottish Storytelling Centre - a solo puppet performance that mesmerises babies and toddlers alike.
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Baby Shark and Tails of the Seven Seas (various Fringe venues) - immersive, multi-cultural music show with audience participation, perfect for wee adventurers.
A good show + a good nap = a Fringe day done well!
Have the right kit!
City venues and cobbled streets demand an agile kit. Skip the bulky buggy - consider renting:
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Lightweight stroller for easy folding and weaving in and out of crowds
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Baby carrier or back carrier for toddlers for stairs and performances because every kid likes to see EVERYTHING!
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Snoozeshade for strollers, for those on the go naps.
Rent from Roundabout - Minimum 2 day rental! Reliable and convenient. Let us deal with the logistics so you can focus on the fringe fun!
Pack Smart - less is more!
You carry the essentials and we’ll organise the rest!
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Nappies & wipes
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Bottles, snacks, quick change outfit
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Blankets and favorite toys to keep them entertained in queues
Roundabout provides fold out feeding chairs for picnics and alfresco dining! We also do back carriers with raincovers and windshields because after all it is Scotland.
Finding Family Friendly Places to Eat
Look for:
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Relaxed vibes
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Outdoor dining
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Highchairs and changing facilities
Just a few suggestions:
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The Storytelling Cafe - a bright, easy cafe that shares space with the venue. Activity boxes, plenty of seating and warming dishes like homemade soup, toasties and traybakes.
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Hendersons - a plant-based, family friendly cafe with a modern Scottish twist - think veggie sausage rolls, fruit pots and great coffee! Lots of space for strollers and prams, a great welcoming vibe. And it’s only a 10 minute walk from George Square.
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Loudons - A Fringe parent favourite. think big pram friendly interior, great brunch menu and warm service. They also do pancakes and porridge for little ones.
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Mary’s Milk Bar (the ultimate treat stop!) - Artisan gelato made fresh daily. Flavors range from raspberry ripple to roasted white chocolate! There’s limited seating so think of this one as a stroller and go type of delight.
Top tip!
Pack muslins or things to wipe faces and double check venues before heading out during Fringe week - things get booked up or shift hours.
The fringe is full of surprise and delight - just like babies! Think one show, snack time stroll, a street performer in sight and a treat stop! - that’s a winning situation right there!