by : A Foster

What’s there to do in Winter?

December does not require much research. Edinburgh holiday lights are switched on in late November and signals the start of Christmas celebrations and a Winter Wonderland. German markets appear, hot food and drinks are plentiful, and there’s ice skating at the foot of the castle in Princes Street Gardens. The Ferris wheel, Edinburgh’s most distinctive Christmas feature, is the tallest wheel in the UK and provides magnificent views from the top. Children may enjoy the ice gallery activities offering snowballs no matter what the weather. There’s train rides through Princes St Gardens, street theatre and carol singing.  Cameras are a must as the city centre scene with the castle centre piece is quite spectacular.

Poetry, Food and Caili’s

Moving on to January there is of course Robert Burns Night. Robert Burns is Scotlands national Bard, a poet and lyricist. On the 25th January his works are celebrated worldwide with a ‘Burns Supper’. His poem (and song), Auld Land Syne, is one which many have heard and used to celebrate in a New Year. Robert Burns died at the young age of 37 in 1796 and during his short life he wrote over 500 poems and songs. In Edinburgh many pubs host there own small celebrations or you can find formal events hosted usually by local charities. The Edinburgh Corn Exchange is a popular venue for formal Robert Burns nights. Caili’s are popular now so expect some good music, food and poetry. You may wish to book slightly ahead for Edinburgh accommodation. ‘Dine around Edinburgh’ offers special discounted pricing at participating restaurants through the months of January and February. Further information can be found at Visit Scotlands drinking and eating guide.

February is the coldest month but impressive exhibitions are always on offer at the Queens Gallery, built in the shell of the old Holyrood Free Church at the Palace of Holyroodhouse which is the Queens official Scottish residence. The National Archives of Scotland is located in Edinburgh and may be of interest to those wishing to research family history. There are many Theatres just off Princes Street which offer a wide selection of musicals, plays, thrillers and pantomimes. ‘The Royal Lyceum Theatre’ is a fine example of Victorian architecture while the ‘Festival Theatre’ has an art deco interior. The Edinburgh Playhouse is the official Scotland’s national theatre.

A Snowdrop Festival and Edinburgh Castle Open House

During the Scottish snowdrop festival, the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden will offer a March stargazing event with family
activities and entertainment. The rhododendrons and the Alpine House are a Spring must see. The Temperate Palm House is the highest of its kind in Britain and these actual gardens date back to the early 1820’s with ‘The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’ being founded in the 17th century.

Historic Scotland has an open house weekend in April. The entry fee is waived to 75 of it’s castles and ancient monuments
scattered throughout Scotland. Over 25,000 visitors took advantage of the free weekend at Edinburgh Castle in April 2007. This is only once a year so plan ahead for a busy weekend touring Scotland!

Outdoor Festivals in May and June

Throughout Scotland the month of May begins to see outdoor activities and events such as mountain, wildlife and walking
festivals. Edinburgh hosts outdoor themed events such as The Garden Show at Ingliston located near the Edinburgh
International Airport, and the popular Taste of Edinburgh food and drink festival where samplings of dishes by some of the
areas finest restaurants are on offer. The week long Leith festival is held late May into June.

Perhaps the biggest event for June is the Royal Highland Show held at Ingliston. This is a fabulous experience for overseas
visitors and those that like to shop. Apart from the many competitions, exhibits, food samples, farm animals (and
machinery) there is a wonderful selection of made in Scotland goodies available for purchase - handknitted, painted, carved,created and sculptured items you wont find anywhere else!

These are just a few recommendations for things to do in the Late Winter - Spring Edinburgh season.

About the author:
Astra Foster is the owner of 2 holiday rental properties in
Edinburgh. A Victorian Edinburgh Self Catering
House which was recently featured in Scottish Life Magazine
and an Edinburgh Holiday Georgian Flat in the New Town.