Summer Camps in London & Edinburgh for 2026: 5 Family-Tested Options

The UK is one of the easier camp destinations for American families — no language barrier, familiar cultural norms, and a huge range of programs. Edinburgh and London are our two favorite cities for combining camp weeks with family travel. Here's what I recommend.

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Edinburgh

The Wild Outdoors

This is my top Edinburgh pick. A nature-based day camp across 9 stunning Scottish locations for primary school-age kids, with 4-day residential options in the Cairngorms for ages 11+. Over 40 activities including archery, go-karts, slip & slides, gel blasters, den building, and marshmallow roasting. Drop-off at 8:30/9 AM, pick-up at 5/5:30 PM for day camp.

Ages: Primary school+ (11+ for overnight) | Type: Day and residential | Season: Summer

TotalRugby Camps

Rugby coaching at Fettes College in Edinburgh for ages 5–16. Skill-building, teamwork, and professional coaching in indoor facilities (rain or shine — it's Scotland, after all). All skill levels welcome. A great option for sporty kids who want something more focused than a general multi-activity camp.

Ages: 5–16 | Type: Day camp | Season: Holiday periods

The Edinburgh Academy

A premium day camp for ages 5+ running during holiday periods, 8 AM to 6 PM. Activities include horse riding, drama, crafts, physical games, and creative challenges. The long hours make it parent-friendly, and the Edinburgh Academy campus is beautiful.

Ages: 5+ | Type: Day camp | Season: Holiday periods

London

Kinship in Nature Forest Camps

A forest school day camp in East London for ages 5–11, running 10:15 AM to 3:15 PM. Kids do forest-based play, tool work, wild cooking, and crafts. 5-star rated with a 1:4 staff ratio. If you want your kids outdoors and unplugged in the middle of London, this is it.

Ages: 5–11 | Type: Day camp | Season: Holiday camps

The Strings Club

A music-focused day camp for ages 4+ (reception and above). Activities develop musical, physical, communication, and social-emotional skills. Personalized daily diaries, free instrument hire, and a 1:8 ratio. Childcare vouchers accepted. A unique option for kids who love (or want to try) music.

Ages: 4+ | Type: Day camp | Season: Holiday camps

Why the UK Works

No language barrier. Obvious but worth stating — your kids can communicate immediately.
Familiar structures. UK camps run very similarly to American ones.
Easy flights. London is a 6–7 hour direct flight from the US East Coast.
Combine with travel. Edinburgh and London are world-class cities with endless family activities.

What My Newsletter Subscribers Get

In my weekly newsletter, I share specific pricing, direct booking links, exclusive subscriber discount codes with partner camps, and tips for combining UK camp weeks with family travel. If you're planning a UK camp summer for 2026, the newsletter has the full details.