Camera Obscura backs Government initiative to cut admission prices

Attraction cuts summer ticket prices by 12.5% to support families, with discounted tickets available to book now

Popular Royal Mile attraction, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, is helping families make the most of the summer holidays by reducing ticket prices throughout the season as part of the Government’s Great British Summer Savings Initiative.

Discounted tickets are available to book now via Camera Obscura’s website for visits between 25 June to 1 September 2026, giving visitors the opportunity to secure savings ahead of the busy holiday period.

As one of the first attractions to make discounted tickets available through the scheme, Camera Obscura is supporting efforts to help more people enjoy memorable days out and discover the best of the UK’s visitor attractions this summer.

In addition to the initiative, the attraction will also honour the discounted rates for visitors who have already booked to visit during the eligible period, with refunds on the difference due to begin processing.

A family of four visiting during the summer holidays could save more than £10 compared to standard admission prices.

Reduced ticket prices include:

  • Adult tickets reduced from £24.95 to £21.85
  • Senior/Student tickets reduced from £21.95 to £19.20
  • Child tickets reduced from £17.95 to £15.70

Andrew Johnson, General Manager of Camera Obscura said; “The summer holidays are a time for making memories together, and we’re pleased to support an initiative that encourages people to get out, explore and experience some of the fantastic attractions available across the UK. 

“We know families are continuing to think carefully about the cost of days out, particularly during the long summer holidays, which is why we look forward to welcoming visitors from near and far to enjoy our interactive exhibits, rooftop views and unique experiences throughout the season.”

The announcement follows a strong start to the summer for Camera Obscura, which was recently named one of the UK’s top three attractions by Which? and awarded Recommended Provider status.

The consumer champion praised the attraction’s interactive experiences, hands-on exhibits and family-friendly appeal, reinforcing its reputation as one of Scotland’s leading visitor attractions.

Over 10,000 people said ‘I do’ at this unique Edinburgh destination

One of Scotland’s oldest visitor attractions has turned Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into the ultimate aisle. From sightseeing to ‘I do’, last year the iconic location saw more than 10,000 people put a ring on it at its unique marriage machine.

This Valentine’s Day, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is once again setting the scene for love, laughter, and unforgettable memories with its famous AutoWed Machine.

The fully automated ceremony is one of only two of its kind in the world, with the other located in the USA. Created by the innovative Cornwall-based company ConceptShed, AutoWed first captured the public’s imagination after appearing on the BBC TV show Dragons’ Den. The novelty wedding vending machine delivers a fun, tongue-in-cheek ceremony at the push of a button, with couples receiving rings and a personalised keepsake wedding certificate.

The entire AutoWed ceremony lasts around 60 seconds / minutes, making it one of the quickest ways to celebrate love in the capital city. Last year, Olympic diver Tom Daley was amongst the many visitors to take the plunge and get ‘AutoWed’ with his husband, Oscar-winning Hollywood screenwriter Dustin Lance Black.

Andrew Johson, General Manager at Camera Obscura said; “The AutoWed Machine has become one of our most-loved experiences, and it’s incredible to see just how many people choose to tie the knot here.

“This Valentine’s Day, we’re inviting even more couples to come and celebrate their love in a fun and memorable way, and we can’t wait to welcome more visitors this February.”

In addition to the AutoWed, couples can explore over 100 interactive, hands-on exhibits that challenge the senses and dazzle the mind. From bewildering optical illusions to breathtaking views of Edinburgh from the Rooftop Terrace.

Sensory Sunday at Camera Obscura

This Sunday, spend an Adapted Morning at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions 🌿

Our next session is on 1st February from 9:30 to 11:00 am.

Book here: https://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/…/article/sensory-sunday/💫

#SensorySunday

#Accessibility

#CameraObscura

#Edinburgh

#VisitScotland

#DaysOut

#daysoutwithkids

Edinburgh Castle gives the green light this Christmas in support of the NSPCC

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Ice Rink and Camera Obscura and World of Illusions illuminated green on the longest night of the year on Wednesday, December 21, in support of the child protection charity, the NSPCC and its Childline counselling service.

On the same night, people dusted off their walking boots and took part in the charity’s 5k fundraiser in the city. The NSPCC invited families, friends and colleagues to get together for the sponsored walk to raise money to support it and its Childline service this Christmas.

On average, two children a minute contact Childline. The service’s counsellors receive calls about many concerns and issues, including abuse, neglect, self-harm, and anxiety.

Caroline Renton, Supporter Fundraising Manager for NSPCC Scotland, said: “We’re extremely grateful for the support given by Edinburgh Castle and Camera Obscura in helping raise awareness of the NSPCC and its Childline service. It was fantastic to see them illuminated green on Wednesday evening.

“And thank you to all those who joined in and raised money for our Walk for Children. Every pound raised will make a difference and help Childline to be there for children, this Christmas and beyond.”

For anyone that took part in Walk for Children in Edinburgh, please remember to share any photos on social media using #WalkforChildren.