Where to spend October Half Term in Edinburgh

The cost of living may be rising, but the family-oriented team at Contini Restaurants have a solution. They’ll be offering free children’s meals during the October school holidays (14th to 21st October), when ordering from the children’s menu. This under 12s selection is served until 7pm and includes delicacies such as pasta Pomodoro (orecchiette pasta with tomato butter sugo) and calamari fritters (fresh Scottish baby squid, courgette and edible flowers deep fried with fresh fennel cress and sweet cicely homemade mayonnaise). Each child qualifying must be dining with an adult ordering a main course. And you must book ahead to qualify for this offer, quoting “School Holiday Promotion”. This is sure to be a popular option with those in the know, so reserve your spot now!

When it comes to family-friendly, Italian restaurants are hard to beat. The welcoming ethos of Mediterranean culture towards kids is palpable in these establishments. The name Terra Marique means “by land and sea”, giving more than a subtle hint of what you can expect from the menus. Owners Ilaria Torre, originally from Puglia, and Fabrizio Babbucci from Tuscany, have been joined by chef Maddalena Fozzi, originally from Sardinia, creating an authentic taste of Italy. Situated in the Old Town close to museums and attractions, it’s especially convenient for those doing some educational or touristy activities over the half term week.

Sister restaurant to the West Room at the opposite end of the city centre, The Broughton is a new addition to the East End/New Town’s gastropub scene. And if you’re a parent who wants to enjoy sophisticated surroundings and some high quality beverages with the kids in tow, you’ve come to the right place. Under 12s can tuck into their own dishes, listed on a children’s menu that provides two courses for £7.50 and three for £10.50. Set in a traditional style pub, this is a “local” for all, so why not use the opportunity of some family time together to check out one of the hottest new spots in town?

Bring the focus to sustainability and home-grown produce, with a trip to the Secret Herb Garden. A magical spot, this garden centre, distillery, shop and cafe has plenty of adjacent parking (ideal for those with buggies and toddlers) and outdoor space for fresh air and exercise. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea is served with tables available in the huge greenhouse, where little ones can learn about plants and herbs (oh, and the smell is divine).

Calling all teachers (and parents who have a break while the kids spend some half term time with the grandparents), The Walnut is a superb choice for some fancy food that won’t break the bank. The grown-up establishment has the option of BYOB too, bringing the costs down further and is situated on Leith Walk, accessible for those on all sides of town. Seating 22, the eatery is an intimate space where you’re sure to avoid pupils, especially if you book for a two or three-course dinner, both of which come with canapes and petit fours. The menus are seasonal, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and presented with finesse.

Our second option for teachers, learning assistants and anyone who works in a school, is Fore Play Crazy Golf. Here you can unleash your inner child and have hours of fun, but in a totally kid-free zone (it’s over 18s only). Gather your team and perfect your swing as you pass the landscapes of Edinburgh in miniature. Then sit back with some prosecco or beer and street food courtesy of Luxford Burgers. Try tasty meat and vegan options like the signature Highlander (two 4oz Aged Scotch steak patties with double American cheese, crispy smoked streaky bacon, Lux sauce and pickles), and The Shining (blackened cajun-spiced jackfruit with smashed avocado, vegan cheese, sriracha sauce and homemade sweet potato crisps).