There's a reason Edinburgh is often called one of the best places in the world to spend Christmas. As the nights draw in and the city's ancient stone streets glow under fairy lights, the Scottish capital transforms into something close to a fairytale — and there's no better place to experience it than from right in the heart of it all.
Edinburgh's medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town were practically made for this time of year. Cobbled closes, twisting stairways, and centuries-old buildings take on a new kind of magic when they're dusted with frost and lit by market stalls and street lamps. Add in Edinburgh Castle looming over it all, floodlit against the winter sky, and you have a backdrop unlike anywhere else in the UK.
Just steps from our doors, East Princes Street Gardens becomes home to one of Europe's best-loved Christmas markets. Expect mulled wine, artisan crafts, street food from around the world, a big wheel with views across the skyline, and a full-size ice rink set against the castle itself. It's the kind of atmosphere that makes you forget the cold entirely.
Scotland's capital has become a genuine food destination, and winter is when its restaurants and bars really come alive. From cosy whisky bars with roaring fires to Michelin-starred dining, this is the perfect season to sample warming Scottish fare — think venison, cullen skink, and of course, a dram or two of single malt to keep out the chill.
If you can, stay on past Christmas. Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebration is legendary — a multi-day street festival culminating in one of the biggest fireworks displays on the planet, launched from the Castle itself at midnight on 31 December. It's an experience that regularly draws visitors from across the globe, and it's only a short walk from where you'll be staying.
Princes Street and George Street offer some of Scotland's best shopping, from high street favourites to independent boutiques. Between shops, duck into a gallery, a historic pub, or simply wander the closes of the Old Town — Edinburgh rewards slow exploration, especially with a hot toddy waiting at the end of it.
Wherever your Christmas in Edinburgh takes you, we're proud to offer a warm, comfortable place to return to at the end of the day. With the city's markets, castle, restaurants, and Hogmanay festivities all within easy reach, our hotel puts you right at the centre of the magic — so all you need to do is wrap up, step outside, and let Edinburgh do the rest.
Book your Christmas stay at 23 Mayfield today and discover why Edinburgh is unlike anywhere else at this time of year.
