Christmas in Edinburgh: Festive Things to Do

Edinburgh is a magical city to visit at any time of year, but especially close to Christmas. The medieval buildings throughout the old town, lit up by the festive lights, are a sight to behold and just one of the many delights Edinburgh offers at Christmas. Join CrossCountry as we explore the best things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas.

There are plenty of ways to get to Edinburgh with CrossCountry, with a number of direct services from Aberdeen, Manchester, and Newcastle.

George Street West Ice Rink

George Street West Ice Rink provides the whole family with the opportunity to take part in a classic winter activity. Located on one of Edinburgh’s most iconic streets, you can glide, twirl, and spin across the ice, surrounded by elegant Georgian architecture that feels straight out of a Christmas film. The ice rink transforms this central part of Edinburgh into a winter wonderland, giving visitors a fresh perspective on George Street.

The festivities begin in November, so there are plenty of opportunities to skate, but with it being such a popular activity, we recommend booking tickets as far in advance as possible.  

George Street is just a ten-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley station, so you can get your skates on and admire the scenery in no time.

Christmas at the Botanics

If you’re searching for one of the best things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas, visit ‘Christmas at the Botanics’ at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. It’s a magical and festive walk through a beautifully curated garden. After dark, the gardens are transformed into an awe-inspiring illumination trail that allows visitors to experience the landscape in a whole new way. Every installation throughout the garden is created to help complement its natural surroundings, with art pieces created by artists from around the world. Be sure not to miss Father Christmas along the way, as he is also on display on the trail.

The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh are a twenty-minute ride from the station via a tram, and from there you can make your way through the gardens and can take in the installations at your own pace. 

Santa’s Stories

Christmas is a special time of the year for anyone, but it is especially special for the little ones. Santa’s Stories gives families the opportunity to meet Father Christmas and his elves busy at work in the run up to Christmas. Take a look at the cheerfully decorated cabin and settle in with a hot chocolate under a blanket for a story told by none other than Father Christmas himself. Each story lasts around twenty minutes, so it’s perfect for younger children too. There are also audio-described and BSL interpreted sessions available as well, but it is best to double check ahead of time when these sessions are taking place.

Santa’s Stories are available to visit in the lead up to Christmas, and is located in the West Princes Street Gardens, just a seven-minute walk from the station.

The Lyceum Theatre

The Lyceum Theatre is a brilliant place to visit in Edinburgh, regardless of what time of the year you’re there, but being able to catch a festive show during the winter months is extra special. The Lyceum is at the heart of a thriving theatrical community in Edinburgh, as it has been a mainstay in the centre of the city for well over a century now.

There is a wide variety of shows on throughout the year, but when Christmas is around the corner, the Lyceum puts on more festive productions. Inside the ornate theatre, with its plush red seats and gilded charm, you’re guaranteed to feel cosy and warm, untouched by the snow and rain outside.

The Lyceum and its festive shows are also just under a twenty-minute walk from the station.

Edinburgh Castle of Light, Fire and Ice

It wouldn’t be a complete trip to Edinburgh at Christmas without visiting Edinburgh Castle. See the castle from a completely different perspective, as the former fortress is uniquely lit up to create a spectacle for the delighted crowds. This show can also boast being the largest annual projection show in the UK, so every visitor can expect to be wowed as soon as the show starts. Why not enjoy a toasted marshmallow from the fire pit alongside your choice from a wide selection of tasty festive drinks?

If you’re looking to catch a train to Edinburgh Castle, it is easy to get to from Edinburgh Waverley, just a ten-minute walking distance uphill.

If you’re planning to attend any of these Christmas activities in Edinburgh or you’re interested in visiting Bristol for Christmas, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.