Plan a day out at Almond Valley Heritage Centre this spring: enjoy the Mad Hatter's Tea Party, the Duck Race and a programme of family activities alongside other Edinburgh events on 9 April 2026
Almond Valley Heritage Centre launches a lively spring programme for families, mixing outdoor play, live demos and seasonal fun. Running through the school holidays, the Easter line-up gives families plenty of reasons to get outside, meet the animals and join in hands‑on activities.
What’s on and when – Key dates: 27 March–15 April (Easter programme throughout this period). – Headline events: the returning Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and the ever-popular Duck Race, both scheduled during the Easter run. – Tip: book headline activities in advance—slots can go quickly during peak days.
What to expect Expect a balance of high-energy activities and quieter, discovery-focused corners. The programme pairs tactile exhibits and short demonstrations with supervised animal encounters, staff-led workshops and interactive performances. Show times are spread across the day to keep crowds moving and to give children chances to take part more than once.
Family-friendly features – Hands-on exhibits and short demos designed to hold attention. – Scheduled, supervised animal encounters that prioritise welfare and minimise crowding. – Immersive events such as the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and staggered Duck Race heats for better flow. – Quiet zones and sheltered seating for downtime. – Practical amenities: accessible toilets, stroller parking, on-site first aid, and food stalls/picnic areas placed to ease queues.
Accessibility and safety Paths are level where possible and sensory-friendly viewing is available for selected activities. If your party needs particular accommodations or quiet spaces, contact the centre ahead of your visit so staff can help arrange anything required.
Timing your visit and pairing with Edinburgh Almond Valley is an easy trip from Edinburgh and makes a good half‑day or full‑day outing when combined with city events. Note that several family programmes in Edinburgh fall on 9 April —if you prefer a quieter visit, consider weekdays or early mornings during the Easter period.
Practical planning tips – Arrive early or midweek to avoid the busiest times. – Staggered arrivals work well for groups: one adult can queue for a session while others enjoy play areas. – Book timed-entry attractions and workshops in advance where possible. – Pack layers, refillable bottles, snacks and a small first-aid kit. – Check transport timetables and allow extra transfer time if combining with Edinburgh activities. – Look for family passes or multi-attraction deals to save money.
Making the most of your day Plan at least a half-day to see indoor exhibits, outdoor play areas and join scheduled activities. If you’re pairing Almond Valley with city attractions, leave a buffer for travel and possible delays. For larger groups or tight schedules, choose refundable or changeable tickets when available.
Why go now School holidays make this a lively time at Almond Valley. The mix of planned performances, drop‑in play and animal experiences suits children across a range of ages and energy levels. With headline events and workshops running from 27 March to 15 April, booking ahead will help you secure the most popular slots and avoid disappointment.
Final note Almond Valley offers a flexible, family-focused spring option—whether you’re after a spirited Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, a sunny afternoon by the paddocks, or a calm corner to watch the animals. Check the centre’s official listings for the latest schedules and ticketing details before you go, and you’ll be set for a smoother, more enjoyable day out.
