Ten things to do near Shawfair with kids

RYZE Trampoline Park is a surefire hit. This has everything you can imagine, from a huge field of trampolines and giant foam pits to dodgeball and a ninja obstacle course. There’s a KidZone for little ones aged 2-6 years to jump safely, and , fitness and skills classes for all ages.

Visit National Mining Museum Scotland and take a tour of the pithead with one of the ex-miner guides who bring the history of the local area to life with their personal stories. The museum and tours are interactive, perfect for keeping kids interested, including the chance to drive the massive winding engine.

Vogrie Country Park is just one of many parks in the area. It features an adventure playground, miles of woodland paths, a miniature railway and a small cafe. Events include Ranger activities for children to get hands on with nature.

Visit Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World to get up close and personal with all manner of wildlife. As well as the butterflies in a rainforest environment, there are lizards, snakes, ants, tarantulas and more. Daily animal handling sessions are also on offer, if you’re brave enough!

Newhailes House & Gardens, a National Trust for Scotland property, offers guided tours of the 17th-century Palladian villa with a colourful history. Their Weehailes themed adventure play park is popular.

Fort Douglas is the ultimate adventure park within Dalkeith Country Park. Featuring turreted treehouses, suspension bridges, hidden tunnels, climbing walls, zip wires, slides and swings; there is something for all ages here.

National Museum of Flight explores the history of aviation from the First World War to the present day and features famous aircraft such as Spitfire, Concorde and the Red Arrows’ Hawk. Interactive galleries and flight simulators give the opportunity to get hands-on and test your piloting skills. The museum also hosts an annual air show which is always popular.

Secret Herb Garden This hidden gem houses an interactive herb nursery where people of all ages can explore and learn about the power of plants. The family friendly café offers local and seasonal food.

Situated at North Berwick Harbour, Scottish Seabird Centre is a discovery centre for the local islands’ wildlife. Use the live cameras to zoom in on sea bird colonies, watch a 3D film or join boat trips to the Forth islands.

Explore a castle, or two. Craigmillar Castle and Crichton Castle are right on your doorstep and the ideal backdrops for all kinds of adventuring. Visit Historic Environment Scotland’s website for fun quiz sheets to keep the kids entertained.