Family Christmas days out in Edinburgh & the Lothians
- Lothians with Littles
- Nov 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 19
From twinkling lights and cosy markets to indoor play zones and winter wonderland experiences, there is plenty to keep little ones (and grown‐ups) entertained. Here are some of the top picks for Christmas family days out in Edinburgh & the Lothians this season.
Edinburgh’s Christmas (City Centre)
This is the capital’s headline festive event – an entire city-centre takeover of fun, lights and Christmas activities. Families can stroll around the market in East Princes Street Gardens from mid November into early January.
Highlights include:
The Christmas market stalls
A big wheel and other fairground rides, offering views out over the city and some thrills for older kids. There is also another festive funfair in West Princes Street Gardens.
The covered outdoor ice‐rink on George Street, ideal for a family skating session and warming up afterwards.
Tip: Arrive earlier in the afternoon so you’re not battling crowds and the children get maximum energy out of the rides before it starts getting late. Wrap up warm (wind + open spaces in Princes Street Gardens can be chilly!).
Conifox Adventure Park – Christmas Experience
Heading a little outside the city, Conifox offers a highly immersive, Christmas experience tailored to families with younger children. Think: meeting Santa, snowball-fight with “Buddy the Elf”, making a teddy bear, cookie decorating and more.
Why it’s great for families: Everything is bundled together in one visit rather than lots of walking around.
Five Sisters Zoo, West Calder – Christmas Illuminations
Five Sisters Zoo Illuminations is one of West Lothian’s most magical winter events, transforming the zoo into a glowing trail of lights, colour and themed displays. Families can wander through twinkling walkways, meet illuminated animal sculptures and enjoy a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages. It’s an outdoor evening experience, so wrap up warm and take your time exploring the amazing light installations across the zoo grounds.
Jupiter Artland
Just outside Edinburgh, Jupiter Artland transforms its sculpture park into a festive wonderland from 6–14 December 2025. Families can explore 120 acres of winter woodland dotted with striking art installations, visit the Festive Village for artisan stalls, and enjoy warm treats around the S’mores Village fires.
Younger visitors can get creative in the Elf Workshop, meet animals in the Live Nativity, and pick out a tree at the Christmas Tree Farm. Choir performances and festive films on across the month too.
Haven Seton Sands – Santa’s Grotto Day Pass
Located just outside Edinburgh at Seton Sands, the Haven Santa’s Grotto Day Pass offers a festive afternoon outing for families. Children can meet Santa in his grotto, get a gift, and enjoy seasonal activities around the park such as the swimming pool, activities and Christmas show.
East Links Family Park – Christmas at East Links Family Park
East Links Family Park brings festive family fun with their Christmas 2025 event. On selected December dates (13-14 and 20-24 December) families can enjoy a sleigh-train arrival from the North Pole, a sing-along with Santa, a free gift for each child under 12, festive games and treasure-hunt style fun around the park.
Tip: Entry to the park is with the usual ticket, but the Christmas extras are included. Book online early for weekend dates (they’re expected to sell out).
Almond Valley – Festival of Christmas
From Saturday 6 December to Wednesday 24 December 2025, during daylight hours, Almond Valley transforms into a festive family playground where Christmas comes to life.
Highlights include:
Crafting Christmas treasures in the Elf Workshop.
Sending letters from the Polar Post Station.
Taking a ride on the Santa’s Express Train or Vintage Tractor (small additional charge).
Meeting the reindeer and enjoying animal encounters on the farm.
Visiting Santa in his cosy cottage (advance booking & extra cost).
Tip: The event is ideal for younger children and families looking for a daytime outing — lots of outdoor space, fun activities and festive atmosphere without the late-night crowd. Dress for the outdoors and book any extra experiences (train ride, Santa visit) early.
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