Christmas in Edinburgh

It is often said that Edinburgh is one of the best cities in the UK to spend Christmas. Aside from its beautiful architecture and green landscape, the decorative twinkling lights and spectacular array of festive events and markets make it a truly special winter wonderland.

Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, loved ones, or even on your own, there are plenty of reasons to venture out of your hotel or Edinburgh serviced apartment.

Here are just a few to excite your Christmas spirit…

Norwegian Christmas Tree

No festive season would be complete without a Christmas tree – and Edinburgh’s definitely won’t disappoint! This majestic gift from Norway, the home of Christmas trees, sits high on The Mound filled with twinkling lights and serves as a historic and cultural reminder of the city’s links with Norway since World War Two.

Edinburgh Ice Rink (Nov 29 – Jan 6)

Show off your skills on Edinburgh’s temporary ice rink and enjoy the stunning surroundings of the East Princes Street Gardens. Suitable for all ages, it’s a great place to go with friends, family or loved ones, and prices per adult are just £9.95. Make sure to wrap up but, if you feel the chill or simply get a bit peckish, there’s plenty of festive food and drinks to keep you warm.

Rocket the Reindeer (Nov 29 – Jan 13)

For the first time in Scotland, Rocket the Reindeer flies onto the big screen in Rocket’s Missing Antler, a magical 3D Christmas film that kids will just love! Usually the fastest of Santa’s reindeer, Rocket has lost his antler which means he might not be able to fly with the sleigh on Christmas Eve. Determined to help deliver the presents, he sets off with the Cheeky Snowman in search of the Wishfairy to see if she can help grow his antler back with the use of her magical powers. Tickets cost just £6 per adult and £5 per child.

The Great Edinburgh Santa Run (Dec 9)

Yes, this is exactly what it sounds like – and who wouldn’t want to see a bunch of Santa’s running down the road?! Come along to spectate or get involved in this jolly festive tradition to raise money for the ‘When You Wish Upon A Star’ charity foundation, which grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses. Absolutely anyone is welcome to join in the fun and it costs just £12.50 per adult and £7.50 per child. Just make sure to bring your best Santa suit for the 1.5k circuit and you can run, skip or walk your way to a well-deserved reward…a Christmas Pudding!

Edinburgh Christmas Fair

See the world from up high on the Ferris wheel, grab your friends for a fun photo in a snow globe, tumble down the helter skelter, ride a horse on the carousel or bounce around in the bungee snowdome! (Charges may apply.) Whatever you fancy, the Edinburgh Christmas fair has a range of attractions for an evening of festive jollity! But if you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, you’ll find plenty of snacks and treats on offer to keep you entertained. Mmm…