While some might picture a Scottish winter as a time for hibernation - where the days are short, the air is crisp, and the mornings frosty - with The Balmoral as your base, there’s every reason to embrace the season. From the city’s magical Christmas markets, to the calm, quiet days of January and the romance of Valentine’s, Edinburgh feels more inviting than ever - just don’t forget to wrap up warm.
There’s plenty to fill your days with at this time of year. Warm up with a mug of hot chocolate, explore immersive art exhibitions, or tuck into hearty dishes that have been part of local menus for centuries. Whether you’re visiting as a couple or travelling with family, the capital’s magic lies in its blend of cosy corners and grand festivities, all within easy reach of our hotel.
For the first time since 2019, Edinburgh Zoo brings back its spectacular lantern trail, running from the 14th November 2025 to the 22nd February 2026. This year’s theme dives beneath the waves, with glowing jellyfish, sea turtles, and other creatures of the deep illuminating the gardens. It’s a dazzling, family-friendly way to light up dark evenings, with adults-only and ‘quiet night’ sessions also available.
It’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the city’s thriving arts scene. Discover Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet at the Royal Highland Centre throughout December, where state-of-the-art projection technology brings the works of the two beloved painters to life. Step inside Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Sunflowers, or Monet’s Water Lilies and Impression, Sunrise, and experience their masterpieces as you’ve never seen them before.
On the 25th January, celebrate Scotland’s best-loved bard, Robert Burns. Across the capital, you’ll find traditional suppers filled with poetry, haggis, and whisky. The Scottish Storytelling Centre hosts special ‘Supper with Burns’ evenings, while Edinburgh Castle brings his story to life through its living history events. Or, mark the occasion at SCOTCH, our dedicated whisky bar, where our expert Whisky Ambassadors will help you find the perfect dram to toast the occasion.
Christmas time in the Scottish capital feels like a scene pulled from the pages of a storybook, as shop windows glow with festive displays and the scent of roasted chestnuts drifts through cobbled streets. Locals and visitors gather at the markets to find the perfect gift, before Hogmanay fills the city with fireworks and the familiar tune of ‘Auld Lang Syne’.
From November through early January, discover a full programme of festive events to ensure your days are merry and bright. Traditional markets stretch along East Princes Street, where local and international artisans offer handmade gifts, seasonal food, and warming drinks.
A highlight is the country’s largest Ferris wheel, the LNER Big Wheel, offering sweeping views over the city. Across West Princes Street Gardens, families can enjoy a festive funfair alongside live choirs and performances at the Ross Bandstand. Over on George Street, glide across the undercover ice rink or simply huddle up with a steaming mug of mulled wine and soak up the magical atmosphere.
Few celebrations compare to Hogmanay - one of the greatest New Year's festivities in the world. Spanning four days from the 29th December to 1st January, the city comes alive with torchlight processions, street theatre, and live music. The famous Hogmanay Street Party fills the historic centre with pipers, drummers, funfair attractions, and delicious street food, counting down to midnight with a spectacular fireworks display from Edinburgh Castle. On New Year’s Day, the much-loved First Footin’ event continues the celebrations with free live music and performances across landmark venues.
Cold days call for a proper cup of hot chocolate, preferably topped with whipped cream and marshmallows. Visit Knoops in the Old Town and choose from over 20 chocolate percentages, from creamy to intensely rich. Or, for something a little more indulgent, take a seat beneath Palm Court’s Venetian chandelier and enjoy the perfect hot chocolate in elegant surroundings.
New Year’s Day is traditionally marked with a hearty plate of steak pie. Up until 1871, the 1st of January wasn’t considered a public holiday, and families would buy their pies from the local butcher rather than cook from scratch. Today, the dish remains a comforting favourite: tender beef, buttery puff pastry, and generous sides of mash and greens.
Burns Night wouldn’t be complete without a plate of Scotland’s national dish - immortalised in Robert Burns’ 1786 poem Address to a Haggis. Traditionally made from minced meat, oats and spices, and served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes), it’s a dish rooted in heritage yet loved to this day. Try the award-winning haggis at Howie’s on Victoria Street - a local favourite since 1990 - or order it for breakfast at Whiski Rooms or Brasserie Prince at The Balmoral, for a typically Scottish start to the day.
Gothic architecture, enchanting history, candlelit restaurants and cosy pubs, with dramatic countryside just beyond the capital — all of which help make Edinburgh a perfect setting for a romantic winter or Valentine’s escape.
A short walk from the Royal Mile, Holyrood Park offers 640 acres of open space and scenic walking trails. Climb Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking city views, or wander hand in hand through frosty paths, discovering hidden lochs and wildlife. It’s a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city.
When the weather turns, seek shelter indoors at Paddywax Candle Bar and enjoy a creative afternoon together. Craft your own fragrant “Made in Edinburgh” candle - a thoughtful memento to take home and light on dark winter nights
Delve into the stories of Scotland and its people through portraiture, where contemporary icons sit alongside historic figures. The building itself is designed in the Gothic Revival style with vaulted ceilings and stained glass, and was the world’s first gallery dedicated solely to portraiture when it opened in 1889.
Many works hold their own tales of tragedy and romance, including Alexander Nasmyth’s definitive portrait of Robert Burns captures the beloved poet in all his romantic spirit. Modern classics are also here, including Annie Leibovitz’s 1980 photograph of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, taken the day Lennon was shot.
With its bespoke tartan interiors, warm lighting, and roaring fires, The Balmoral is a welcoming retreat. Located at No. 1 Princes Street, you’re also within walking distance of the city’s main attractions. After a day exploring, return to your spacious room or suite and watch the winter scene unfold outside your window.
Our dedicated concierge team is on hand to make every moment of your stay seamless - from arranging private transport and dinner reservations, to curating bespoke tours and countryside escapes. No one knows the city's hidden gems quite like they do.
At Bar Prince, let the buzz of Princes Street fade away. Find a quiet corner in our library nook, order a signature cocktail or a glass of champagne, and settle in with a good book on a chilly afternoon.
January often brings with it a focus on rest and renewal. At Irene Forte Spa, The Balmoral, step into a serene space and slow down after the festive season. Relax with nourishing treatments made from Sicilian botanicals, harvested from our organic farm at Verdura Resort, or join one of our fitness classes to start the year feeling refreshed and inspired.
The Balmoral, 1 Princes Street, where Old Town meets New, a legendary hotel and landmark clock tower: a symbol of its city
The Balmoral, 1 Princes Street, where Old Town meets New, a legendary hotel and landmark clock tower: a symbol of its city
The Balmoral, 1 Princes Street, where Old Town meets New, a legendary hotel and landmark clock tower: a symbol of its city