Enchanting Edinburgh in Winter
Last updated Nov 11, 2024
While it’s popular year-round, Edinburgh truly comes to life in winter, offering a mix of festive markets, traditional Scottish celebrations, a plethora of cosy restaurants and bars, unique shopping, and lots more.
A Festive Wonderland: Edinburgh Christmas Markets
One of the highlights of Edinburgh in winter is its Christmas markets. Nestled within the historic city centre on Princes Street, these markets are set against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument.
Visitors are greeted by rows of charming wooden chalets. These stalls offer a wide array of goods, from handcrafted jewellery and artwork by local artisans to traditional Scottish treats and unique souvenirs. Warming up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine, visitors can wander the stalls, savouring the traditional delicacies like roasted chestnuts, sweet crepes, and spiced gingerbread.
Big and little kids will love the amusements dotted around the market, such as the Ferris wheel with its panoramic views of the city, as well as carousels and smaller rides.
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Beyond the Markets: Winter Lights and Ice Rinks
In addition to the markets, Edinburgh has an array of winter attractions that make the city sparkle. Edinburgh’s Castle of Light is a mesmerizing winter event that transforms Edinburgh Castle into a dazzling display of lights and colour. With stunning projections, immersive installations, and captivating animations illuminating the historic castle, visitors journey through Scotland’s rich history in a magical setting.
For a touch of classic winter fun, Edinburgh’s ice-skating rink in St Andrew Square Garden is a highlight. Skating beneath the twinkling lights is an idyllic way to embrace the season. Even for those who choose not to skate, the rink area is a cozy spot to relax and sip on a hot drink while watching others glide across the ice.
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Hogmanay: Ringing in the New Year, Scottish Style
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations are legendary and considered among the best New Year’s celebrations in the world. Hogmanay, the Scottish term for New Year’s Eve, is a deeply rooted tradition in Scotland, attracts thousands of visitors from around the globe.
The heart of the celebration is the Street Party on Princes Street, where music, dancing, and live entertainment continue well into the night. The street is filled with various stages featuring live bands, DJs, and performers, ensuring there’s music and fun to suit every taste. As midnight approaches, revellers count down to the New Year, and at the stroke of midnight, a magnificent fireworks display erupts over Edinburgh Castle, marking the beginning of a new year with awe-inspiring grandeur.
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Cosy Spots to Warm Up
Winter in Edinburgh is chilly, but that only adds to the charm of retreating to one of the city’s cosy pubs or restaurants. The World’s End on the Royal Mile offers a historic ambiance with traditional Scottish fare, while The Sheep Heid Inn is one of Scotland’s oldest and most charming pubs. For whisky lovers, The Bow Bar is a must. The Dome is an enchanting spot with festive decor and classic dining, while The Scran & Scallie, co-owned by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin, is also a top choice, combining traditional flavours with a modern twist.
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Staying in Grassmarket
Our stunning Wilde Aparthotel offers a sanctuary of serenity amidst the bustling charisma of the city.
