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Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Edinburgh

4.5
#1 of 139 in Childrens Museums in United Kingdom
Science Museum Observation Deck
For a weirdly wonderful and unique view of Edinburgh, head to Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. The camera obscura itself sits in the roof and features a set of mirrors and lenses that project moving images of the city onto a screen. You'll be able to pick up projected pedestrians in your hands and redirect traffic over paper bridges. The guide narrates an entertaining history of Edinburgh while you experiment. Throughout the rest of the building, you can observe and play with all sorts of other optical tricks. Your entrance fee enables you to come and go as you want throughout the day, and you can return the next day for free if there more exhibits you want to see. Put Camera Obscura and World of Illusions and other Edinburgh attractions into our Edinburgh trip itinerary planning site , and watch your holiday take shape.
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Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Reviews
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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating 4.5
12,250 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • By Marian M
    This museum is very fun and interactive. Great place very busy but we got quickly through the que. We all had our suitcases with us and we were delighted that they had a room that was locked so we cou...  more »
  • By RebHarr93
    My boyfriend and I came here on the 9th February and had such a laugh. We started at the top of the building with a view of Edinburgh, then worked our way down :) It's reasonably priced and is great t...  more »
  • By B1llRogers
    Fantastic attraction for young and old alike ... our guide Holly was excellent and informative and her love for her job was infectious!!!  more »
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Google
  • By Shoaib Rehman
    Loved visiting camera obscura during our stay in Edinburgh. I was astonished to see different types of illusions they have at all three floors. It was a great experience and a must visit when you're in Edinburgh. It shouldn't take more than an hr (depends on your energy level) to visit all floors. I particularly enjoyed their mirror room.
  • By Seref Elmalioglu
    I'm 28, going on 29... and this place still made me happy and extremely satisfied. I had fun like little kids! So much fun things to see and do there. I was alone so you might need some help from others to take your pictures while you are there :) Top floor has a very nice rooftop view of beautiful Edinburgh. If you are in town, this place is a must! 2 hours will be plenty enough.
  • By Paul O'Connell
    Fantastic venue, warm welcome for both humans and four legged friends. The staff were incredibly attentive towards my dog and the tour at the top was insightful and enjoyable. Could not recommend this tourist attraction any more. Excellent. 5 stars all the way.
  • By Simon Tully
    A great, unusual, hands on, brilliant day out. Not really suitable for really young children. We'll priced spent a good three hours wandering around. Highly recommended if you are staying or visiting Edinburgh.
  • By Andrew Thomas
    Fascinating museum with an interesting history. Dan gave an excellent show to begin the visit, and we then descended through the floors, where there were numerous intriguing optical illusions, artworks and interactive displays. The mirror maze and spinning tunnel were great fun, and the views of the city from the top of the tower are superb on a clear day. All in all a very enjoyable place for the whole family to visit.
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