December in Edinburgh, Exciting Things to Do
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, turns into a winter wonderland in December. The city sparkles with lights, the air smells like cinnamon and pine, and there's a magical feeling everywhere. If you're lucky enough to visit Edinburgh in December, here are some fun things you can do.
Enjoy Edinburgh's Christmas Markets
One of the best things about Edinburgh in December is the Christmas markets. The main one is in Princes Street Gardens, right in the heart of the city. It's like a little village of wooden stalls selling all sorts of things. You can find handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, and lots of yummy food.
At the market, you can try traditional Scottish treats like shortbread and tablet (a super sweet candy). There's also food from other countries, like German sausages and Dutch pancakes. Don't forget to try some hot chocolate or mulled wine (a warm, spicy drink) to keep you cozy.
The market also has rides, including a big Ferris wheel. From the top, you can see amazing views of the whole city lit up for Christmas. It's a bit chilly up there, but totally worth it!
Spread through Princes Street gardens are rides, fairground games and a Christmas tree maze. See more about the Christmas market here.
Ice Skating at St Andrew Square
In December, St Andrew Square turns into a winter playground with a big ice rink. Even if you've never skated before, it's fun to give it a try. There are helpers on the ice to make sure you don't fall, and you can rent special frames to hold onto if you're nervous.
Around the ice rink, there are more food stalls and places to sit and watch the skaters. It's fun to skate at night when all the Christmas lights are twinkling around you. Grab a glass of mulled wine and feel like you're in a christmas movie.
Visit Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle looks extra special in December. Sometimes it's covered in a light dusting of snow, making it look like something from a fairy tale. Inside the castle, you can learn about Scottish history and see the Crown Jewels.
In December, the castle often has special Christmas events. You might see actors dressed up in old-fashioned clothes, telling stories about what Christmas was like hundreds of years ago. From the castle walls, you can see great views of the city all lit up for the holidays and look out over the lights and ferris wheel at the Christmas market.
Take a Ghost Tour
Edinburgh is famous for its spooky stories, and December's long, dark nights are perfect for ghost tours. There are lots of different tours to choose from. Some take you through the old streets of the city, telling scary stories as you go. Others go down into the underground vaults beneath the city.
One popular tour is the Christmas Ghost Tour, which mixes spooky tales with Christmas stories. It's a fun way to learn about Edinburgh's history while getting a few chills (and not just from the cold weather). Another of our favoirites is Mary Kings Close tour. Find tickets and informaton for this and other tours at The Haymrarket Hotel tour desk.
See the Botanical Gardens' Light Show
Every December, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh puts on a amazing light show called Christmas at the Botanics. As you walk through the gardens at night, you see all sorts of colourful light displays. There are light tunnels you can walk through, trees that seem to be singing, and even a laser garden.
Along the way, you can stop for hot chocolate and roast marshmallows over a fire. It's a magical experience that's fun for all ages. Just remember to dress warmly, as you'll be outside for about an hour.
Watch a Pantomime
Pantomimes (or "pantos" for short) are a big Christmas tradition in Scotland. They're funny plays based on fairy tales, but with lots of silly jokes, songs, and audience participation. In Edinburgh, you can see pantos at theatres like the King's Theatre or the Festival Theatre.
Pantos are great for the whole family. You'll laugh at the jokes, boo at the villains, and maybe even get to shout "He's behind you!" It's a very Scottish way to enjoy the holiday season.
Hogmanay: Edinburgh's New Year Celebration
If you're in Edinburgh at the end of December, you're in for a treat. Edinburgh's Hogmanay is one of the biggest New Year celebrations in the world. It lasts for three days, from December 30 to January 1.
The celebration includes a torch-lit procession through the city, huge street parties, concerts, and a massive fireworks display at midnight on New Year's Eve (Hogmanay). There's also the "Loony Dook" on New Year's Day, where brave (or crazy) people jump into the freezing Firth of Forth river. It's fun to watch, even if you don't want to jump in yourself!
Climb Arthur's Seat
For a break from the holiday hustle and bustle, try climbing Arthur's Seat. It's an ancient volcano right in the middle of the city. In December, the top might be frosty or even snowy, but on a clear day, you can see for miles.
The climb takes about an hour, depending on which path you take. At the top, you'll have amazing views of Edinburgh all decorated for Christmas. Just be careful if it's icy, and make sure to wear warm clothes and good shoes.
Visit the Scottish National Gallery
If it gets too cold outside, head to the Scottish National Gallery. It's free to visit and has lots of amazing art from Scotland and around the world. In December, the gallery often has special Christmas-themed tours or events.
Even if you're not usually into art, it's worth a visit. The building itself is beautiful, and it's a great place to warm up and see some of Scotland's treasures. There is an outdoor viewing platform which gives a nice free view of the city.
Edinburgh in December is a magical place. From Christmas markets to ancient castles, from ghost tours to New Year parties, there's something for everyone and all walking distance from your cosy room at The Haymarket Hotel. Just remember to bring warm clothes and get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure in one of the world's most beautiful cities, and as always, enjoy your stay!
