A Magical Christmas at Camera Obscura

It’s officially the festive season here at Camera Obscura, and with 5 floors and over 100 interactive exhibits, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy!

Until the 5^th January, we're extending our opening hours, so you've even more opportunities to visit. And, if you book online for a visit at 8.30am or 8.45am you'll get 20% off all ticket prices! Discount already applied at time of booking.

Our Top Stocking Fillers from our Gift Shop

Looking for gift inspiration? Have any budding young artists in your midst? We’ve highlighted some of our best-selling products from the Gift Shop that we think you’ll love!

Aurora Glitter Light

Who doesn’t love sparkles? This glitter light is a best-seller for a reason! We could sit for hours just watching the glitter twirl and alternate through a myriad of colours.

Scratch and Shimmer Spirograph

Sparkles again? You guessed it! Create colourful masterpieces with rainbow and sparkly waxed scratch sheets, sticker sheets, and glitter precision wheels. Simply set up the wheels, insert the drawing tool, and let your creativity flow!

Pin Art

So simple, yet so satisfying! Create 3D impressions of anything you like with Mind Fuel’s 3D metal pin art—an inspired take on the classic retro must-have.

Recent Toys Puzzles

Recent Toys offers an enormous range of puzzles and brainteasers to choose from, each varying in difficulty level. Our favourites are the Pyraminx Diamond, the Ghost Cube, and the Hollow Cube—we can’t wrap our heads around them!

My World Infinity Mirror

Bring a touch of Camera Obscura home with your very own infinity mirror—guaranteed to make anyone look ‘out of this world.’ You might find yourself staring into infinity!

The Puzzling Obscurities Box of Brainteasers

Can you solve all 60 puzzles in this set? These perfectly pocket-sized games will keep you entertained before indulging in your Christmas dinner!

Before you go, here’s a little festive fact for you...

Edinburgh comes alive at Christmas, buzzing with festive cheer as Scots embrace the holiday spirit.

But did you know Christmas was banned in Scotland for nearly 400 years? Before the 1560 Reformation, Christmas was a religious feast day. However, the powerful Kirk's opposition to Roman Catholic traditions led to a 1640 law outlawing "Yule vacations." Even after the monarchy's restoration, Christmas celebrations remained rare in Scotland until December 25th became a public holiday in 1958.

This long ban is why Hogmanay and New Year celebrations hold such significance in Scottish culture today.