As December rolls in and the season and snow greet the bustling streets of Edinberg, nothing could compare to the blindingly beautiful lanes of the capital of the Scottish land. Flickering vibrance encompasses every nook of the city, the thick festive air filling up the delicious senses. The richness of Christmas time in Edinberg surpasses money and expensive decorations, bringing together the pure delight of togetherness and love and the joy of savoring festive Christmas drinks that warm the soul.
Watching the city come together to welcome the Holy Spirit and rejoice in the goodness of the season is truly a magnificent opportunity. And what Christmas is complete without the festive eateries and Christmas drinks? With the doors to cozy pubs, artisanal cafes and Christmas markets opened in the tempting invitation, pour your soul into the seasonal amenities and spoil yourself with the creative concoctions of the month.
This blog as usual brings your guide to celebrating an eventful Christmas in Edinburgh.
1. The Classic Mulled Wine Experience
No Christmas outing is complete without a steaming cup of mulled wine. Edinburgh’s renowned Christmas Market on Princes Street Gardens is the perfect place to start your journey. Stalls offer traditional mulled wine infused with spices like cinnamon, star anise, and cloves, creating the quintessential festive aroma.
For an elevated experience, visit The Dome, where their mulled wine is paired with a stunning display of Christmas decorations. The Dome’s lavishly decorated interior and warm ambiance make it an iconic spot for enjoying classic Christmas drinks with friends or family.
2. Artisan Hot Chocolates with a Festive Twist
Edinburgh’s cafes take hot chocolate to a whole new level during the holiday season. At The Chocolate Tree in Bruntsfield, you can indulge in rich, hand-crafted hot chocolate infused with seasonal flavors like peppermint and orange.
For something truly unique, head to Coro the Chocolate Cafe, where their festive menu features decadent creations such as gingerbread hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, edible glitter, and a miniature gingerbread man. It’s the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike!
3. Festive Cocktails for a Night Out
Edinburgh’s cocktail bars go all out for Christmas, crafting special holiday menus that celebrate the season. At Panda & Sons, a speakeasy-style bar with a cozy vibe, the bartenders concoct creative drinks like “Winter Wonderland” or “Santa’s Tipple,” featuring festive ingredients such as cranberry, nutmeg, and spiced rum.
The Voodoo Rooms, known for its opulent decor, offers Christmas cocktails that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Try their signature eggnog martini, a creamy blend of holiday spices and brandy that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.
Also Read: Beach Hopping and Refreshing Drinks in Panglao Island
4. The Whisky Lover’s Christmas
When in Scotland, indulging in whisky is a must, and during the festive season, Edinburgh’s distilleries and whisky bars embrace the holiday spirit. At Whiski Rooms, you can sip on whisky-infused Christmas drinks like the “Hot Toddy Christmas Special,” made with honey, cloves, and lemon.
For a more immersive experience, visit Johnnie Walker Princes Street, where their festive cocktail workshops let you create your whisky-based holiday drink. It’s a delightful way to combine Scotland’s most famous spirit with the joy of the season.
5. Alcohol-Free Festive Delights
For those seeking non-alcoholic options, Edinburgh doesn’t disappoint. Many cafes and bars offer mocktails and festive hot drinks that are perfect for family outings or a quiet evening. At Hendersons Vegan Restaurant, their spiced apple cider is a crowd favorite, served warm with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Similarly, Loudon’s, known for its inclusive menu, serves a delightful “Christmas Cranberry Spritz,” a sparkling drink that captures the essence of the holidays without the alcohol.
6. Christmas Markets: A Hub for Festive Beverages
Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets are more than just a shopping destination they’re a hub for festive food and drink. Apart from mulled wine, you can find spiked hot chocolate, German Glühwein, and warm cider.
The market also offers international twists on traditional Christmas drinks. Don’t miss out on a warming cup of Swedish Glogg, a mulled wine variation, or a mug of Bailey’s hot chocolate, which is a creamy indulgence perfect for sipping as you explore the festive stalls.
7. Warm Ciders and Ales
Edinburgh’s pub scene comes alive in December, offering an array of seasonal ales and warm ciders. At The Hanging Bat, you’ll find a selection of local craft beers with festive flavors, like spiced pumpkin ale or Christmas pudding stout.
For cider enthusiasts, The Caley Sample Room is a must-visit. Their mulled cider is a standout, infused with winter spices and served hot an excellent choice for those looking to try something beyond traditional mulled wine.
8. Hidden Gems and Pop-Up Bars
The festive season also brings pop-up bars and hidden gems that offer unique Christmas drinks. One of the highlights this year is the Miracle on George Street pop-up, a holiday-themed bar decked out with over-the-top decorations and a menu full of whimsical cocktails like the “Jingle Juice” and “Reindeer Milk.”
Another cozy spot to check out is The Little Blue Door pop-up in Stockbridge, where the holiday menu features everything from warming spiced chai lattes to indulgent boozy milkshakes.
Tips for Enjoying Christmas Drinks in Edinburgh
- Bundle Up: Edinburgh’s December weather can be brisk, so wear warm clothing to fully enjoy outdoor markets and pop-ups.
- Book Ahead: Popular venues like The Dome or Johnnie Walker Princes Street can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so make reservations in advance.
- Explore Beyond the City Center: Venture to neighborhoods like Stockbridge or Leith for a more local and laid-back festive experience.
A Toast to the Holidays
Every swirl of your glass thrusts the taste and scent of the festival and celebration. Edinburgh’s Christmas has every amenity to satisfy the crooked tastes of each palate. Whether it’s the season’s favorite mulled wine the deliciously rich steaming cup of chocolate or savoring some dizzyingly flavored whiskey, the decked city beds entail more than you initially realize.
December has set in and people have prepared to welcome the guiding star of the Heavenly Father. As goblets fill up and holly and traditional mistletoes dangle above heads, gear up in your most fitting wool and venture to celebrate and drink for good health and good years to follow.
Hallelujah!
