If you are looking for something really special to do in Edinburgh at Christmas time, then a trip to the Royal Botanic Gardens should be at the top of your list. Since 2017, visitors to the Scottish capital have had the opportunity to attend an enchanting Christmas Illuminated Trail at the Botanical Gardens. We decided to go on Christmas Eve a few years ago and what a magical experience it was!
We took our two kids as well as our relatives (it was our Christmas gift to them) a few years ago and we all loved it. It was a great way to mark the start of the festive season and has become a fun family tradition! So we thought we’d share our experience with you:
What will you see?
The Botanics Illuminated Trail is an organised event that takes place in the evening after dusk and runs for about 5 weeks starting from around the third week of November (check the website for exact dates).
You’ll enter the Botanics at either of the two entrances – East Gate or West Gate – and once inside the gardens, you’ll find a clearly marked pathway that weaves through the trees and next to the ornamental flower beds. The atmosphere is really special as you discover and explore each light experience with many designed by well-known art studios.
Highlights for us were the “Tunnel of Light”, made up of thousands of spectacular micro lightbulbs (instagrammers at your heart out) as well as the festive light projections against Inverleith house. The attractive glow of the “Scented Fire Garden” makes a great photograph and is a fab way to warm up.
About half way round is a little wooden cabin adorned with various Christmas decorations – this is actually the scene of a short Santa themed stage show with the man himself as well as actors dressed as elves. The kids loved it.
>> Are you spending a few days in Edinburgh over the festive period? Head here for our Edinburgh at Christmas guide! <<
Can you eat and drink in the Gardens?
Of course! No festive celebration would be complete without a mug or two of mulled wine to warm your bones. Luckily there is plenty of chances to enjoy a refreshment along the way. It’s possible to buy warm spiced berry cider, Christmas pudding rum with warm ginger ale, sloe gin with warm apple juice, mulled wine, hot chocolate and various snacks from popup food trucks in the gardens.
And for something special for both kids and adults try toasting your own marshmallows. The sugary delights come in tempting flavours such Christmas pudding, blueberry + sipsmith gin or even caramel popcorn + cranberry and are handmade. You’ll be provided with long wooden sticks which makes them perfect for toasting over the fire pits.
You can also head to the Terrace café or the East Gate Lodge to pick up a hot drink and a snack.
>> If you’re spending some time in the area, check out our post on quirky & unique bars in nearby New Town. <<
Where are the Botanic Gardens and how do you get there?
Slightly off the beaten track, the gardens are around a 20 minute walk from the city centre (1 mile north of Princes Street) and there are also excellent bus services that will take you right to the entrance.
→ East Gate entrance (Inverleith Row): Lothian buses 8, 23 and 27 from the city centre
→ West Gate entrance (John Hope Gateway, Arboretum Place): Lothian buses 29, 42 and 24 from Stockbridge
You can also come by car, however, we suggest that you opt for entrance on the West Gate as there is more on-street parking available in that area, although it does get VERY busy so parking is tricky. A taxi is also a great option!
Do I need to book tickets and how much do they cost?
Although you can buy tickets on the day, we highly recommend you buy your tickets online ahead of your visit to avoid disappointment. Early evening and weekend slots are often sold out.
For advance tickets, costs will vary depending on whether you choose an off-peak, standard or peak slot : £19 – £25 for an adult, £14.00 – £18.50 for a child and family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) will set you back between £63 – £84 (check up-to-date prices here). You will be given a choice to book a ticket with entry via the West Gate (Arboretum Place) or East Gate (Inverleith Row) – think about your itinerary and where you’ll be coming from. There’s bus stop just outside the East gate so this would be a good option if you’re arriving via public transport (buses 8, 23 and 27 stop here). Also, it can get busy so try to arrive a little early. There is also a one-off service fee of £2.50 per transaction and tickets are more expensive if bought on the day.
When is it on? [20th Nov – 30 Dec 2025]
This year [2025], the Christmas Light Trail starts on 20th November 2025 and runs until 30th December 2025. It’s closed on Christmas Day as well as a number of other days which are indicated on their website.
Entry is available from 4:15pm until 8pm with specific time slots every 15 minutes. Again, check their website for details.
How long does it take to visit the Botanics Christmas light trail?
The trail is a one mile long pathway with many magical attractions to stop at, explore and enjoy along the way. The first time we went, we were booked on a 6pm slot and were finished by 7:30pm so we reckon that to fully enjoy the experience, we recommend that you allow 1hr 30mins for your visit.
Is the Botanics Illuminated Trail suitable for children?
Absolutely! It’s the perfect family outing and will get everyone into the festive spirit. Little ones will enjoy the magical atmosphere, watching a Santa show and toasting marshmallows over the fire pit. The first time we went, our children were aged 9 and 11 at the time and we saw plenty of families with kids of all ages. Just remember to wrap up warm as little tots will likely get cold – especially if they’re in buggies. We were lucky with the weather – although cold – we didn’t experience any rain but it’s worth checking the forecast and dressing accordingly.
>> The Botanics is a must-visit place if you’re coming to the Scottish capital with kids. If you’re looking for other ideas, check out our guide to visiting Edinburgh with kids! <<
Final words
This is a very unique and memorable event to enjoy as part of your Edinburgh Christmas experience, and a welcome break from the Christmas market. It’s ideal for kids and adults of all ages, just make you sure book ahead to avoid disappointment. Check out the RGBE’s short trailer to get a wee taste of what lies in store!
For you, for Pinterest:
