Five fun ways to get your kids active in Edinburgh

Jack Brown from Edinburgh scales Edinburgh's Alien Rock. Picture; Toby Williams

Rock climbing

Best suited to kids aged eight and over, Alien Rock’s two capital-based facilities are great for introducing children to rock climbing. Groups are kept to a small size – no more than six – as instructors talk through the basics. Children work in teams of two, assisting each other with the ropes as they advance up the wall.

Alien Rock, 8 Pier Place and 37 West Bowling Green Street, 0131 552 7211, http://www.alienrock.co.uk/

National Museum strikes called off for second weekend

Trampolining

RYZE has a play area – an open jump and foam pit area – reserved for youngsters aged between two and six years old. Alternatively, KidJump is a dedicated hour-long session where young children get exclusive use of the venue. ClubRYZE takes place every Friday and Saturday night for those aged seven and over, who can enjoy glow in the dark dodgeball and other activities. There are plenty of facilities for adults, too, obviously.

RYZE, Ozone Action Sports Centre, Unit 23, Mayfield Industrial Estate, 0131 6340140, http://www.ryzeedinburgh.com/

Hillwalking

As long as the weather holds up, Arthur’s Seat is perfect for a family day out. Taking any one of several trails to the top of the hill allows one of the best views of the city, but the kids will likely ask you about the sights of the ruins of St Anthony’s Well and Chapel, as well as St Margaret’s Loch.

From the car park, there are two trails that lead upwards. For a more gradual, child-friendly ascent, take the red path.

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

Soft play

Jungle Adventure is an indoor soft play area, perfect for when wet or cold weather makes a outdoorsy day forbidding. Located on Easter Road, facilities for children include Biff Bash Forest, Spiders Web Astra Slide, 3D Rope Maze, Roller Challenge Zone and Drop Slide. For adults, a restaurant (and Wi-Fi) allows plenty of space for a breather (and a bite to eat).

Jungle Adventure, 377 Easter Road, 0131 297 7557, http://www.jungleadventureedinburgh.co.uk/

Swimming

There are several pools across the city that offer great facilities. On top of swimming lessons, the Royal Commonwealth Pool has a separate diving pool, with various boards for kids to take the plunge from. There are toddler pools available as well, meaning that no age group is left out.

Royal Commonwealth Pool, 21 Dalkeith Road, 0131 667 7211, http://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/venues/royal-commonwealth-pool