A Festive Photo Friday: Christmas In Edinburgh

And just like that, it’s December!

I’d been planning to write a Christmas guide to Edinburgh since last Christmas, but given that virtually everything is cancelled this year, from Christmas markets to drinks at the Dome, it seems a little silly to write a post all about things that aren’t even happening.

Edinburgh is still magical at Christmas, regardless. I walked home from work the other night so that I could take in some of the sights, and took a detour to the Dome, one of Edinburgh’s premier high class restaurants that always puts on a fantastic display.

There are a few things that are still going ahead this year, like the lanterns at Edinburgh Zoo, and the Christmas At The Botanics is still on, which is one of my favourite Christmas events here.

But instead of a full-blown guide, I thought I’d just share some of my favourite festive photos. And I’ve picked the right day for it – Edinburgh had its first dusting of snow today! In fact, we experienced a phenomenon called “thundersnow”, whereby we and most of Edinburgh were woken up sharply at 4.30am by the loudest clap of thunder I have EVER heard. Trust me, it takes a lot to wake me up – it sounded like a freaking sonic boom. It even made the news!

So I’m slightly sleep-deprived, but all the more reason for a simple photo post! Plus – we are moving into our new house this weekend, so I won’t have time to do a big post this week. Exciting times ahead!!

Anyway, on with the Christmas delights – it might not quite be New York, but Edinburgh pulls out all the stops anyway! ‘Tis the season!

Starting with the Christmas markets! The markets have got bigger and bigger every year, which has caused both controversy and delight. Me? I love them, and really miss them this year!

Moving on to the next best thing about Edinburgh at Christmas: The Dome!

The Dome is absolutely stunning, and in normal years you can go in for a drink, which is a great excuse for a peek at one of the best Christmas trees around.

The Dome is the height of opulence and extravagance.

This year, I think the Dome is even better than before – they’ve added Nutcrackers!

Just around the corner from the Dome is a place we visited a few weeks ago – and while I knew it was going to be incredible inside, I didn’t realise it was going to be so festive! The Scottish National Portrait Gallery certainly put us in a Christmas spirit with this display.

I’ve already mentioned Christmas At The Botanics – and it’s certainly one of my favourites! The botanic gardens plays host to an array of light attractions, with light shows on the glasshouse and a route full of colourful wonders.

The light tunnel is of course the star of the show. (I mean, how full-on Instagram can you get, right?)

Back into the city centre, as we head to the pretty Rose Street, just off Princes Street.

And along to Waverley, Edinburgh’s main train station.

A few shops along Princes Street put on a good display as well. Last year, we finally (and for the last time, potentially) checked out the famous Jenners Christmas tree. I also found some shoes on sale for £650, so I think it’s safe to say I won’t be shopping there.

And seeing as we’re back on Princes Street, we appear to have come full circle, so here’s one more peek at the markets.

So, have I put you in a Christmassy mood?! Are you gonna shuffle off now and blast some Mariah Carey or some Fairytale Of New York, or stick on some Home Alone or Muppets Christmas Carol?

I hope so, because goodness knows we need some magic in our lives at this point!

Anyway, whether you’re a Christmas cracker or the Grinch, I’ll catch you next time from OUR NEW HOUSE! Excited to introduce you to our new home. Have a magic-filled weekend!