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Dynamic Earth

Science & Nature Museum verified UK Days Out Savers

Dynamic Earth

Holyrood Road, Edinburgh (EH8 8AS) • Lothian

star4.6(18,200)
Lothian
🌋 Simulated Volcanoes & Earthquakes ❄️ Touch a Real Iceberg 🌴 Indoor Tropical Rainforest 🌌 Massive Planetarium Shows
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scheduleDaily: 10:00 – 17:30 (Closes earlier on select days in winter). Last entry is roughly 90 minutes before closing.

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OFFICIAL bolt My Scottish Pass

The Edinburgh City Pass (1, 2, or 3 Days)

Don't buy a standalone ticket. Get the Edinburgh City Pass for prepaid, fast-track access to Dynamic Earth, the Edinburgh Dungeon, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, and over 20 other attractions.

£55.00/ person
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Getting Here

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Location Address

Holyrood Road, Edinburgh (EH8 8AS)

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Public Bus Services

Local bus lines operate frequent daily services directly to stops adjacent to the attraction entrance.

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Regional Transit Links

Connections
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Edinburgh Waverley Station

Walking

15 min walk
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Edinburgh City Centre

Lothian Buses (No. 35)

15 min

About Dynamic Earth

Set in a striking tent-like structure at the foot of Arthur's Seat, Dynamic Earth is Edinburgh's ultimate family science attraction. The highly immersive, interactive tour acts like a time machine, taking visitors back to the Big Bang. You will walk through a rumbling volcano, touch a massive real ice block, experience a simulated earthquake, and wander through an indoor tropical rainforest. It also houses Scotland's spectacular 6K full-dome planetarium.

Quick Facts

  • 🌋Simulated Volcanoes & Earthquakes
  • ❄️Touch a Real Iceberg
  • 🌴Indoor Tropical Rainforest
  • 🌌Massive Planetarium Shows
  • scheduleDaily: 10:00 – 17:30 (Closes earlier on select days in winter). Last entry is roughly 90 minutes before closing.
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Insider Tips

  • check_circleThe Ultimate Rainy Day Hack: Because the entire attraction is completely indoors, it is the perfect place to hide out during bad Scottish weather. Plan to spend about 2 hours here.
  • check_circleFully Buggy Accessible: Unlike Edinburgh's historic castles, Dynamic Earth is a modern building. It is fully accessible via ramps and lifts, making it totally stress-free for parents with strollers.
  • check_circleBook your Planetarium slot early: While a dome show is included with your ticket, seating is limited. Book your entry timeslot online in advance to guarantee a seat in the theatre.
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What to Expect

1. The Time Machine

Step into a simulated elevator that takes you back 4.5 billion years to witness the Big Bang and the fiery formation of the universe.

2. The Volcano & Earthquake

Stand on a moving platform that rumbles beneath your feet as you experience the power of a volcanic eruption and a simulated earthquake.

3. The Polar Ice Block

Learn about glaciation by stepping into a freezing room where you can touch a massive, real block of ice.

4. The 6K Planetarium

Finish your journey by leaning back in the plush seats of the 6K dome theatre for an immersive, 360-degree astronomy or climate show.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dynamic Earth suitable for toddlers? expand_more

Yes, Dynamic Earth is excellent for young children. However, parents should be aware that the 'Volcano' and 'Time Machine' rooms feature loud noises, rumbling floors, and flashing lights that may startle very sensitive toddlers.

How long does it take to go around Dynamic Earth? expand_more

Most families spend between 1.5 and 2 hours completing the interactive walkthrough tour and watching the included 360-degree Planetarium show.

Do you have to pay for the Planetarium at Dynamic Earth? expand_more

No, access to one showing in the 6K Planetarium is generally included in the price of a standard admission ticket. You simply select your showtime when booking.

Explore the Area

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Standing magnificently at the bottom of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official working residence of King Charles III in Scotland. Visitors can take an exceptional self-guided tour through the opulent State Apartments to see where the monarch hosts global dignitaries today. The tour then steps back in time to the 16th century, exploring the historic bedchambers of Mary, Queen of Scots—the very site where her secretary, David Rizzio, was brutally murdered in 1566.

The Real Mary King's Close

The Real Mary King's Close

One of the most unique historic attractions in the world. When the City Chambers were built in the 18th century, they simply lopped the top off several medieval streets (closes) and built on top of them. The result is a subterranean, perfectly preserved 17th-century neighborhood. Led by brilliant costumed character guides, visitors descend beneath the Royal Mile to explore dark, cramped, myth-filled underground alleyways, plague-stricken homes, and the devastating realities of life in 1600s Edinburgh.

The Edinburgh Dungeon

The Edinburgh Dungeon

Located directly next to Waverley Station, the Edinburgh Dungeon is a high-energy, 80-minute walkthrough experience. It uses brilliant live theatrical actors, highly detailed sets, special effects, and two thrilling underground rides (a boat ride and a sudden drop ride) to tell the gruesome stories of Edinburgh's past. Visitors are plunged into total darkness and will encounter legendary characters like the cannibal Sawney Bean, the body snatchers Burke and Hare, and the local witches.

Top Rated Hotels Nearby

Holyrood Hotel

Holyrood Hotel

0.1 miles away•
★★★★★
(100+)
From £145 / night
Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments

Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments

0.2 miles away•
★★★★★
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From £220 / night

Local Car Rentals

Explore the beauty of Lothian at your own pace. Hire a car from trusted agencies nearby.

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VW Polo or similar (Economy)

Manual • 5 seats • Hertz

£35/day
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Nissan Qashqai or similar (SUV)

Automatic • 5 seats • Enterprise

£68/day
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