Whether you’re out for a winter wander, or soaking up the seasonal magic, Edinburgh’s Christmas light displays offer something sparkling at every turn. Here’s your guide to the city’s most dazzling light displays – from iconic streets and atmospheric light trails to glitzy restaurants and hotels that go all out…
Whether you’re out for a winter wander, or soaking up the seasonal magic, Edinburgh’s Christmas light displays offer something sparkling at every turn.
Here’s your guide to the city’s most dazzling light displays – from iconic streets and atmospheric light trails to glitzy restaurants and hotels that go all out for that “wow” factor.
Within Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Old and New Towns, there’s dazzling sights around every corner.George Streets transforms into a glowing avenue of festive glamour. Giant illuminated trees stretch along the road, perfect for strolling under with a hot chocolate in hand. The elegant Georgian architecture glints under strings of fairy lights, creating a scene straight out of a Christmas film. Continue towards Princes Street Gardens, where Edinburgh’s Christmas comes to life with fairy-lit trees and wooden huts selling festive treats, all against the Big Wheel, Scotland’s largest Ferris-wheel. Nearby, the Mound glows as it connects the Old Town to New, with sweeping views over the gardens below. Don’t miss the towering Christmas tree, a gift from Vestland (formerly Hordaland) in Norway, that stands proudly and offers a breathtaking backdrop for a festive photo.
Just a short walk away, Victoria Street in the Grassmarket winds like a ribbon of colour through the heart of the Old Town, with every shop window dressed to impress. And if sleek and stylish is more your vibe, Multrees Walk serves up Christmas with a luxury twist of high-end sparkle. Of course, the city’s light trails and immersive experiences are in a league of their own. At the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Christmas at the Botanics offers a magical after-dark adventure through tunnels of light, laser-lit gardens and glittering trees, all set to a festive soundtrack. Towering above the city, Castle of Light turns the mighty Edinburgh Castle into a canvas for storytelling, with bold projections and stunning visuals that bring the ancient walls to life in a whole new light.
But it’s not just the streets and landmarks that shine. Edinburgh’s businesses go all out at this time of year, dressing their facades in glittering lights and their interiors in seasonal splendour. On George Street, The Dome is practically a festive institution, with its grand pillars wrapped in lights, window ledges decorated with nutcrackers, and a towering Christmas tree taking centre stage inside. Just around the corner, The Ivy on The Square matches the drama with bold floral installations, glittering arches and a perfect backdrop for a festive cocktail. Meanwhile, The Balmoral brings classic elegance to the season, with golden lights, frosted wreaths and an atmosphere of timeless luxury. Over in the Old Town, The Witchery by the Castle adds a dash of Gothic glamour to the season. With its candlelit interiors and opulent décor, Christmas here feels like a fairytale. Further down the Royal Mile, The Nutcracker Christmas Shop glows with charm. Open year-round but made for December, this shop is a treasure trove of ornaments and decorations.
If this Christmas you feel like escaping to a grand country house, don’t miss a visit to Prestonfield House where flickering fireplaces, rooms adorned with candlelight and elegant Christmas trees can be found in every corner. Over in Bruntsfield, the boutique Black Ivy offers a cosy Christmas setting and an outdoor terrace that’s the perfect place for nestling in for a warming drink. And then there’s Gleneagles Townhouse, where mesmerising lighting captures the essence of this stunning building.
In Edinburgh, Christmas isn’t just a season, it’s an experience. So, bundle up and follow the glow – Edinburgh is shining just for you!
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
