Choosing Edinburgh for Christmas

With its cobbled streets, historic castles, and gothic architecture, it seems that Edinburgh could hardly get any more magical. This city of arts, history, and culture welcomes tourists from all over the word throughout the whole year, but arguably, there can be no time more special than Christmas in the capital.

Few things can make the dark nights feel less gloomy quite like Edinburgh. Wandering around its streets, where old, Georgian buildings are contrasted against the brightness of Christmas lights and decorations is enough to cheer up even the gloomiest scrooge. Whilst there will be a nip in the air (nothing that a warm scarf and a pair of gloves can't amend), there will always be so much to do if you choose Edinburgh as your latest Christmas venture. Not sure where to start? Here's a few tips....

CHRISTMAS MARKET

The most popular Christmas attraction throughout this season is the Edinburgh Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens. Welcoming over 2 million visitors to the gardens last year, the site is a favourite for Christmas enjoyers. It runs from the 15th of November to the 4th of January.

With quaint little stalls selling a range of items, from delicious food to handmade ornaments, the market is a perfect visit to get you in the holiday spirit or to stock up on some Christmas presents when in need.

Whilst it can be pricey, the food on offer is always a warm comfort amidst the cold Edinburgh weather. A personal favourite is the Yorkshire pudding wrap, which has all the goodness of a Christmas dinner wrapped up into one flavourful gravy-filled pastry pudding. The sweet food is also always a delicious treat, with so many stalls to choose from. Popular picks are typically waffles and miniature pancakes, expertly drizzled in Nutella.

The rides also provide some additional entertainment to this adventure. The big wheel dominates the Edinburgh skyline throughout the Christmas period, offering a relaxed way to view the city from up above. The Starflyer is a thrilling way to both experience a theme park ride whilst also seeing the excellent birds-eye views of the city centre and its iconic landmarks. Of course, you'll have to hold on tight to the bars on your seat, as this 80-foot tall ride spins you around in circles so fast, the whole experience can seem a bit of a blur!

GEORGE STREET

The fun continues along George Street as more festive stalls appear. Despite the smaller scale, the food and gifts on George Street are still worth a visit. With stalls offering leather goods, socks, t-shirts, records, and more desserts, you can still wander and find a gift for yourself after the lively hustle and bustle of the Princes Street market. Sweet treats are also on offer, with the Dutch waffle stall being a particular standout.

George Street also boasts a festive ice rink along its long strip. Session lengths are around 40 minutes, with more relaxed sessions or toddler ones also offered. Whether you're looking to show off some skating skills, or simply wanting a good laugh with friends and family, the ice rink is always bound to be entertaining. There are also various outside drinking areas along George Street to sit and relax over a pint. However, maybe keep the drinking until after you're off the ice.

CASTLE OF LIGHT

Edinburgh Castle is a showstopper all year round, but it definitely has an incredible feel to it around Christmas time. The castle in winter is a perfect visit for those interested in Scottish royal and military history, with dark stories echoing around its walls from centuries past.

For the past six years, Historic Environment Scotland has put on a bold display of bright colours to light up the dark winter skies against the castle's cobblestones. The Castle of Light show is the castle's annual festive event, exhibiting colourful projections over the grounds to transform the fortress into an entertaining storytelling experience. It is the largest projection show in the UK.

The event runs from the 21st of November to the 4th of January. On event days, the castle will close early to ensure it can begin entry at 4:30pm. Last entry will then be from 7.30pm to 7:45pm, with the event closing at 9pm. Plenty of time to wander your way from the Portcullis entrance to the top of Crown Square.

The theme for this year's event is "Fire and Ice", showcasing immersive installations inspired by the elemental forces. Mythical creatures like dragons, and stories of ice queens will wander the walls as you travel further up into the castle. Food vendors are also available, and the Queen Anne bar is open for drinks, making it the perfect festive event for a night of food, drinks, and celebrations in the town!

THE DOME

One of the most picturesque places in Edinburgh for Christmas has to be The Dome.

Located on George Street, this iconic building attracts visitors all year round, snapping pictures of both the outside and inside. But come Christmas time, The Dome's pillars are draped in bright Christmas lights that trail down from top to bottom. It's an eye-catching display that is a staple of the Edinburgh Christmas sightseeing tour.

Whilst the outside is certainly iconic, make sure not to miss out on the interior decorations. You can head inside to The Grill Room for some drinks or a meal, located right underneath the building's dome ceiling. On top of the bar and in the centre of the room is a gorgeous 26-foot tall Christmas tree! This is a sight that has been captured in many camera rolls throughout the years, as the Christmas decorations blend beautifully with the ornate and intricate interior designs of the grand old building. No matter how you choose to spend your day in Edinburgh. The Dome is the perfect place to finish off a long day of holiday sightseeing with a festive drink or meal.

Of course, Edinburgh is filled to the brim with sights around the holiday period, but these four are staples of the Edinburgh Christmas experience within the city. Other incredible sights include Christmas at the Botanics for a wander along a lit up nature trail, Rose Street to experience the various pubs and shops lit up by the festive lights, the Polar Ice bar where everything inside is made of ice, and if you choose to stay just a few more days, the Hogmanay street parties to bring in the new year.

So book that train or plane ticket, and come visit one of the most beautiful cities in the world to celebrate the most special time of year!