Updated: 4 December 2025
With the festive season in full swing, Edinburgh is overflowing with things to do — from stylish new bars and neighbourhood openings to Christmas performances, family-friendly days out and winter menus made for chilly evenings. Whether you’re planning a date night, a festive meet-up with friends or a cosy weekend activity, here’s our pick of what to book, see, do and eat in Edinburgh this December.
Settle in for a cosy lunch or dinner at The Gilded Saloon
Where: The Gilded Saloon, Bristo Square, Old Town
If you’re after somewhere atmospheric for a winter lunch or dinner, The Gilded Saloon is one of the most charming spots in the Old Town right now. The moment you step inside, the glow of the lighting, the hum of conversation and the soft haze of music make it feel instantly inviting — the kind of place where you could easily settle in for hours. The bar has a relaxed but slightly mischievous energy to it, with a soundtrack that holds the mood perfectly and cocktails that make you want to stay for “just one more”. It’s also a great date-night pick thanks to its tucked-away two-seater table hidden behind a corner — small, intimate and atmospheric.
Chef Tomás Gormley’s new menu brings refined, flavour-forward takes on pub and British comfort classics, the sort of dishes that feel especially right in December. If you’re not sure what to order, the chicken and lentils is a standout — especially when paired with the purple sprouting broccoli and the maple-glazed baby carrots. It’s cosy, generous and deeply satisfying. Finish with the quince and pear lattice pie with vanilla custard, which tastes exactly like winter should. And if you’re only popping in for a drink before heading elsewhere, their Paloma is superb.
Visit thegildedsaloon.co.uk.
See Jamie Cooper’s new exhibition LEVELLING UP at Fruitmarket Warehouse
Where: Fruitmarket Warehouse, 45 Market Street, Edinburgh
When: 13 December 2025 – 18 January 2026
Fruitmarket Warehouse becomes the backdrop for Glasgow-based artist Jamie Cooper’s latest exhibition, LEVELLING UP — a sharp, playful and quietly political installation that feels especially resonant this winter. Known for his illuminated, plastic sculptures that riff on the signage and branding of shopping centres, Cooper transforms those familiar commercial cues into strange, animated forms. Here, they’re presented in a fully immersive environment with new sound and film works, creating a space that feels part arcade, part critique, part dreamscape.
The exhibition explores the idea of “levelling up” not as a political promise, but as a lived experience — one shaped by debt, austerity and the contradictions of contemporary capitalism. Giant plaster coins stamped with satirical phrases like fit for work and austerity respawn scatter the space, guiding visitors around the installation like tokens in a game. Cooper’s work draws on real experiences of precarious employment and economic strain, reclaiming gaming culture as a site of resistance rather than escapism. It’s sharp, bold and surprisingly emotional, and well worth a visit if you’re in the city centre this month.
Visit fruitmarket.co.uk.
See Scottish Ballet’s The Snow Queen at Festival Theatre
Where: Festival Theatre, Edinburgh
When: Until Sunday 7 December
Scottish Ballet’s The Snow Queen is one of the most magical performances to see in Edinburgh this December. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale — the same story that inspired Frozen — this production brings a winter fairytale to life through beautifully crafted choreography and atmospheric storytelling. The journey takes you from a bustling winter market into a world of shimmering snow, enchanted forests and the icy grandeur of the Snow Queen’s palace, where mirror shards glint under the stage lights. It’s visually rich, emotionally warm and ideal for anyone wanting to soak up some festive theatrical magic.
The production is choreographed by Christopher Hampson and designed by award-winning Lez Brotherston, meaning the staging is as impressive as the story itself. Audiences can expect an uplifting tale of friendship, courage and love, brought to life with a sparkling cast and immersive set design.
Visit scottishballet.co.uk.
Sip cocktails and vinyl at The Caley Bar’s new listening lounge
Where: The Caley Bar, The Caledonian Edinburgh, West End of Princes Street
When: Open daily from 5pm
The Caley Bar has reopened as Edinburgh’s newest listening bar, and it’s one of the most stylish places to unwind this month. Inspired by Japanese Jazz Kissa culture, the bar is built around the idea of slowing down and really listening — to great music, to each other and to the atmosphere of the room. Vinyl turntables take centre stage, with curated sets that shift as the evening goes on. Soft lighting, plush booths and a beautifully designed bar create a warm, modern space that feels far removed from the December crowds just outside.
The drinks menu is rooted in Scottish craftsmanship and precision, with cocktails designed to taste clean, balanced and quietly sophisticated. Expect signatures like Birch, made with birch sap vodka and green tea vermouth, served in locally crafted ceramics. Rare whiskies and refined bar bites round out the offering, making it equally suited to a slow first drink or a full evening spent grazing and listening. It’s a gorgeous winter hideaway, especially if you’re after something a little different from the usual pub crowds.
Visit hilton.com.
Explore Brown’s of Leith — the city’s new food and creative hub
Where: Brown’s of Leith, 4–6 Shore, Leith
Brown’s of Leith is one of the most exciting new openings in the city — a transformed industrial building now home to a mix of food, drink and creative businesses that feel distinctly Leith in spirit. The space retains its warehouse character but has been thoughtfully adapted, with high ceilings, textured materials and plenty of natural light. It’s the kind of place that invites wandering: start with coffee at Haze, move to seafood at Shuck Bar, then end up browsing, talking or sipping wine in one of the pockets of the building that hosts artists and makers.
Food-wise, there’s a lot to explore. Haze offers small plates, speciality coffee and wine; Civerino’s brings a New York-style pizza menu; and Woven allows visitors to get hands-on with whisky blending — immersive, creative and perfect for gifting season. It’s an ideal place to meet friends, warm up after a winter walk along The Shore or even base yourself for an afternoon of working, browsing and snacking. As the space evolves, Brown’s is set to become a cultural anchor for the area.
Visit customlane.co.
Make a festive day of it at WinterFest, Dalkeith Country Park
Where: Dalkeith Country Park
When: Until Sunday 4 January
WinterFest at Dalkeith Country Park is back — and it’s packed with festive activities that make it one of the best days out near Edinburgh. The eco-friendly Glice skating rink is the main attraction, offering a smooth, twinkling glide under fairy lights. Families can visit Santa for storytelling sessions inside the Christmas Cabin, join in with gingerbread decorating or get creative with craft workshops. The park itself is beautiful in winter, giving the whole experience a soft, seasonal glow.
There’s also plenty for adults to enjoy, from wreath-making workshops at Restoration Yard to festive food pop-ups and the much-loved Doddie Dash (with 1k, 3k and 5k options). You can pick up a real Christmas tree on your way home, too — with a recycling scheme that keeps things sustainable. It’s wholesome, easy, and a great way to spend a full December day away from the city.
Visit dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk.
See the Palace of Holyroodhouse dressed for Christmas
Where: Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Mile
When: Until Monday 5 January
Holyroodhouse is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Edinburgh this month. The palace’s State Apartments are dressed for Christmas with towering trees, rich garlands and a magnificent 15-foot fir in the Great Gallery — where photography is allowed for the season. The combination of historic architecture and festive decor makes it feel like stepping into a classic Christmas film set, with every room offering something beautiful to linger over.
Alongside the decorations, visitors can enjoy carol evenings inside the palace, exclusive winter tours and family-friendly activity days. There are £1 ticket options for eligible visitors, making it an accessible festive outing even at a time of year when costs add up. Whether you’re going with family, friends or on a solo festive wander, it’s one of the loveliest cultural moments in the city.
Visit rct.uk.
Toast the season at Edinburgh Gin Distillery
Where: Edinburgh Gin Distillery, City Centre
When: Open daily; EH locals receive 15% off on Sundays
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery is offering a cosy, flavour-packed festive escape this winter. Guests can take part in guided gin tastings, enjoy seasonal cocktails in the Winter Garden bar or even craft their own bespoke bottle in a hands-on session. It’s warm, intimate and designed to feel like a little pocket of calm amid December’s bustle, with rooftop views over the city adding to the charm.
If you live locally, Sundays are the best day to go. Their new EG4EH code gives all EH postcode holders 15% off experiences and drinks, making it a lovely option for a slow Sunday meet-up or a more interactive date. Pair it with a wander through the Christmas Market or a winter walk up Calton Hill and you’ve got the perfect December afternoon.
Visit edinburghgindistillery.co.uk.
