From indulgent dining to enchanting light displays and unique shopping opportunities, here’s your ultimate guide to festive fun in the capital—no elbowing through the Christmas markets required.
Festive food and drink experiences
The Palmerston
For laid-back catch-ups over hearty winter dishes—think classic pies or roast chicken with chips.
When: Throughout December
Where: 1 Palmerston Place, Edinburgh EH12 5AF
Visit: thepalmerstonedinburgh.co.uk
Sotto
Edinburgh’s enoteca-meets-trattoria has you sorted with intimate dinners and a wine list that impresses.
When: Throughout December
Where: 28 Deanhaugh St, Edinburgh EH4 1LY
Visit: sottoedinburgh.co.uk
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
Freshly crowned one of Britain’s best roasts by The Good Food Guide, Hawksmoor is the ultimate spot for a festive feast.
When: Throughout December
Where: 23 West Register Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2AA
Visit: thehawksmoor.com/locations/edinburgh
Manahatta festive bottomless brunch
Edinburgh-inspired Christmas cocktails and tasty brunch dishes await at this buzzy new venue.
When: 28 Rose St, Edinburgh EH2 2QA
Where: St James Quarter, Edinburgh
Visit: manahatta.co.uk/bars/edinburgh
Narnia comes to life at Duck & Waffle
Enter a Narnia-inspired wonderland while enjoying seasonal dishes.
When: Until 31st December
Where: St James Quarter, Edinburgh
Visit: duckandwaffle.com/edinburgh
Edinburgh’s most festive afternoon tea at the Register Club
A quintessential afternoon tea with a holiday twist.
When: Throughout December
Where: The Edinburgh Grand, 42 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH2 2AD
Visit: theregisterclub.com/christmas-overview
Winter wonderland at Prestonfield House
Party nights or a cosy afternoon tea? Prestonfield delivers both with festive flair.
When: Various dates in December
Where: Priestfield Road, Edinburgh, EH16 5UT
Visit: prestonfield.com/christmas-at-prestonfield
Sweet treats to try now
Mince pies are a festive staple, but Edinburgh’s best spots take it up a notch. Stop by The Palmerston, Lannan, and Twelve Triangles for seasonal delights like sourdough chestnut buns with chocolate filling and vanilla glaze from Twelve Triangles or the brandied prune, chocolate mousse & caramelised almond pastries at Lannan.
When: Throughout December
Where: Multiple locations in Edinburgh
Visit: thepalmerstonedinburgh.co.uk, lannan_edinburgh, twelvetriangles.com
Lace up your skates
Uniqlo ice rink, George Street
Glide into the festive spirit at Edinburgh’s largest outdoor ice rink. Think twinkling lights, mulled wine, Baileys on tap, and ‘late skate’ DJ sessions. Family-friendly and toddler-specific slots make it perfect for everyone.
When: Until 4th January
Where: George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4JN
Visit: edwinterfest.com
Magical displays and enchanting shows
Christmas at the Botanics
Wander through a mesmerising light trail in the Royal Botanic Garden. A sell-out every year, so grab tickets while you can.
When: Until 30th December
Where: Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh
Visit: rbge.org.uk
Castle of Light at Edinburgh Castle
History meets artistry with dazzling light projections on the castle walls.
When: Select dates in December
Where: Edinburgh Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh
Visit: edinburghcastle.scot
