Always wanted to play paintball in Edinburgh, but never known where to look? Luckily, Scotland’s historic capital offers thrilling adventures for those seeking an adrenaline rush. For enthusiasts of tactical warfare and friendly combat, paintballing is the ultimate experience. Whether you’re a seasoned paintball warrior or a first-timer looking for an action-packed day out, Edinburgh boasts an array of top-notch paintballing venues. Read on to learn more about the city’s diverse array of paintball fields, each offering a unique blend of fun, excitement, and strategy.
The best places for paintballing in Edinburgh
Here are some of the top places that offer paintball in Edinburgh, which all give you something a little different. They’re great options to try if you want something fun to do with friends in Edinburgh, and if you enjoy it, why not try them all?
1. Battlezone Edinburgh
Battlezone Edinburgh is the closest paintball site to the city centre, so it’s the perfect choice for a fun and convenient day out. It provides players with all necessary equipment, including paintball guns, camouflage overalls, and goggles. It offers a variety of packages, with the most popular being the Command package (£40 for a half-day session) and the Major package (£60 for a half-day or full-day session). Full-day packages include lunch. All packages include a brand-new paintball mask, although players who bring their own will receive an extra 200 paintballs. Call or email to make a reservation, and be prepared to pay a 50% deposit.
Address: Dolphinton Burn Woodlands, South Queensferry
2. Bedlam Paintball
Bedlam Paintball boasts a five-star, safety-accredited facility, offering a wide range of tactical-based scenarios.The game zones they offer are among the most exciting of any paintball facility, making for some of the most epic paintball battles you can imagine! You could be creeping up to an occupied communications tower, sneaking through an abandoned village that’s straight out of a movie, navigating the wild badlands, or getting lost in a mysterious jungle. The Black Fortress arena would be perfect for horror fans, while the Speed Area is more suited for those who enjoy fast-paced action. Bedlam Paintball is located only 20 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh, making it an ideal choice for a day out. It also offers special deals for birthdays, stag or hen parties, and corporate events.
Address: Craigton Farm, Craigton House, Winchburgh, Edinburgh, EH52 6PY
3. Skirmish Paintball
Skirmish Paintball has the largest game-playing area in Scotland, and strives to keep the spirit of paintball alive as it evolves and develops. With 12 game zones to choose from, your group is sure to find something that appeals! There are also places to purchase food on-site, and you can add lunch to your package for an extra £5. Games at Skirmish Paintball are suitable for anyone over the age of 12. If you pay upfront for a group of at least 10, the organiser goes for free!
Address: Crow Wood, Dalmahoy
4. Go Ballistic Edinburgh
Go Ballistic is one of the longest-running paintballing venues in Edinburgh. The site includes both classic games and more unique challenges, and is suitable for beginners and experienced paintballers alike. The 55-acre site contains a total of 15 game zones, including exciting scenarios such as ‘Trenches’ and ‘No Man’s Land.’ Packages start from only £7.50, and there are shops on site to buy refreshments. The ‘Pay as you Play’ package allows you to buy paintballs upon your arrival. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Address: EH14 4AG, near Hermiston
Why play paintball?
Maybe you’ve been considering a paintball match with friends, but you aren’t yet convinced. After all, paintball can be somewhat expensive and venues are often not easy to access. But trust me, the experience is totally worth it. Here are some top reasons why paintballing is so much fun.
1. You get to know other people
Paintball is all about team spirit. It’s the ultimate way to bond with your friends, learning to work together and communicate like pros. Whether you’re defending a base or strategising an attack, everything depends on teamwork. Because working together is so crucial, paintball is one of the best ways to get to know people. Who knows – maybe you’ll even create lifelong friendships!
2. It’s all about inclusivity
Most paintball fields are suitable for both beginners and experienced players, allowing people with a range of abilities to work together on the same team. Many also allow children from as young as 8 years old, and paintball can be enjoyed by people of all fitness levels. Because of the game’s accessibility, it’s a perfect team-building exercise. With paintball, anyone can enjoy the thrill of friendly competition.
3. It’s a great workout without you realising it
Most paintball games are played outside, immersing the player in a natural landscape. The benefits of being in nature are well-known and numerous: they include improved mental health, a greater sense of wellbeing, and higher fitness levels. Due to paintball’s fast-paced and active gameplay, players will also build their physical fitness by running, climbing, and jumping through various outdoor arenas.
4. It can unleash confidence
For many, paintball provides an opportunity to build confidence and leadership skills. As you help your team create plans and strategies, your actions directly influence the game’s outcome. Players learn to trust their instincts and make split-second decisions, facing challenges head-on. The sense of achievement that paintball fosters can lead to greater resilience and self-confidence.
What should I know before going paintballing?
At the start of the game, it’s a good strategy to keep low and learn the layout of the arena. Dashing in guns blazing is likely to get you shot – not a fun experience for you or your team! Instead, use the available cover to scout out good vantage points and keep yourself safe.
Wear clothes that cover as much of your skin as possible – being hit with a paintball on bare skin can be quite painful! Paintball strikes are most painful on the hands, neck, head, and thighs. To make sure you’re prepared, wear long sleeves and trousers with a hat and gloves. As paintball can be a fairly messy sport, wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. The good news is that the paint washes out easily, but it’s best to wear something you’ll be comfortable in.
Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to get your team together! As long as you keep calm and know what to expect, there’s nothing to be worried about – paintball is a fun activity that anyone can enjoy.
If you weren’t convinced before, I’m sure you are now! There’s no better time than now to gather your friends and book a day of fun, competition, and excitement. Or if you’d like to find a different hobby that will help you keep fit, why not check out our list of the best boxing centres in Edinburgh? If you’re planning a day out with friends, you might also be interested in these 10 unique things to do in Edinburgh.
