We can finally talk about Christmas! The Dome’s columns will twinkle, Glühwein will flow freely and screams of terror will fill Princes Street as The Starflyer spins uncomfortably close to The Scott Monument. Christmastime in Edinburgh somehow makes the city even more enchanting – that’s right, the city that helped inspire J.K. Rowling becomes even more magical. So, with Christmas just around the corner, we’ve rounded up some Edinburgh Christmas Gift ideas perfect for that special somebody.

Edinburgh Christmas Gift Ideas

Our Christmas gift guide will focus on presents with a strong Edinburgh connection, some may only be available (or redeemable) in Edinburgh – but there’s no harm paying us a visit if you don’t live here.

Decorate the Tree

Who says Christmas gifts need to go under the tree? Why not fill a few with gin and use them as decorations. Last year, Pickering’s Gin created their innovative Gin Baubles, which sold out faster than it takes to pour a gin and tonic. This year, Pickering’s have brought their gin baubles back, there’s no chance of selling out in 82 seconds – this year Pickering’s have produced 1 Million Baubles (insert Austin Powers reference here).

Pickering’s Baubles – £30 

Live in Edinburgh and love gin? Be sure to also check out Pickering’s Distillery Tour 

Edinburgh Cook School

Give somebody the gift of life skills and reap the benefits yourself when they come home with treats and a passion to feed you in the winter months.  Edinburgh New Town Cookery School’s diverse range of courses offers something for every level of ability, from chefs to homemakers and students to food enthusiasts. A practical, professional approach will give students the skills to cook with confidence.

Cookery courses available at Edinburgh New Town Cookery School.

Find out what we thought of Edinburgh New Town Cookery School

Aizle – Doesn’t Rhyme with Christmas

There’s nothing more exciting than looking forward to a special meal. We’ve given each other gift vouchers for tasting menus at some of Edinburgh’s best restaurants each year and they’ve always gone down an absolute treat. We thought long and hard about which restaurant to recommend when pulling together our Edinburgh Christmas gift guide, but in the end, it was quite simple, go to Aizle (rhymes with Hazel).

A 5-course menu is £45 (plus £35 with paired drinks), which is pretty reasonable for an unforgettable meal. Obviously, you’ll need two vouchers – fingers crossed you get to use the other one.

Gift voucher available here

Has this whetted your appetite? Check out our review of Aizle

Edinburgh Helicopter Ride

Why not get high for Christmas and see Edinburgh from above? If you thought the city was stunning on foot, you’ll be amazed to see what it’s like to soar over the iconic landmarks in a helicopter. We did it a couple of years ago and loved every second of it. Gaining a new perspective on Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat were particularly special, as was the obligatory “Look! We can see our house from here moment”.

Helicopter rides can be booked through Virgin and Gift Experience Scotland

Create your own Craft Beer

Stewart Brewing’s Craft Beer Kitchen is Scotland’s first brew-it yourself facility. It’s the perfect Christmas gift for a beer enthusiast or somebody who would like to learn more about the brewing process. Whilst you devise your own craft beer creation you’ll sample some of Stewart Brewing’s beers and play ping pong during your breaks. You’ll come up with your own recipe (don’t worry, expert help is on hand), design your own label (think long and hard about a good name) and revisit the brewery once your beer is ready to bottle and label your creation.

Prices for Stewart Brewing’s Craft Beer Kitchen

For more info, visit https://www.stewartbrewing.co.uk/craft-beer-kitchen

It’s the perfect group activity, although we did it with just two when we created EdinBrew

Merry Christmas Edinburgh!

We hope you all have a fantastic Christmas in Edinburgh (and the rest of the world) when it comes. If you have any recommendations for Christmas gifts, leave a comment below, we’d love to hear them!

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