Museum of Childhood

The Museum of Childhood’s large collection is full of colour and variety. Visitors to the Museum can see optical and construction toys, cars from Dinky miniatures to child-size pedal cars, toy soldiers, puppets and dolls’ houses. The Museum explores all aspects of growing up, so toys and games sit alongside items such as books, medicines and clothing.

The Museum of Childhood collection was founded by  Patrick Murray, a passionate collector of toys and childhood objects who was also an Edinburgh Town Councillor. Objects in the collection span the 18th to 21st  centuries. We have a large collections of toys, games, crafts and hobby items, from tea sets to Meccano.

The Museum is more than just a toy museum. It aims to explore all aspects of childhood, from baby raising and healthcare to education. Rattles, cod liver oil bottles and school slates sit alongside the toys and games of the past.

We also hold collections of books, photographs and clothing, from christening robes to fancy dress.