Winter can hit with vengeance during the month of December in Edinburg. However, the city can also be especially beautiful during this time of the year thanks to brief snows and the holiday decorations. In fact, if you can brave the cold, this can be a wonderful time to experience the charm of the ancient city. Be sure to check the extended forecast in order to be sure that you have the appropriate heavy-duty clothing to keep you warm even on the coldest day.
If you do choose to visit during this time of year, you will also have to experience a lot of clouds and darkness. In fact, the city sees an average 0 hours of sunshine per day. Therefore, you may want to plan ahead and see what museums and other indoor attractions are open in order to not only get out of the weather, but also the darkness.
There is also plenty of rain during this time of year as the region gets an average of 70mm both liquid and frozen precipitation. With temperatures near the freezing mark, some snow showers are likely and they help add a magical dimension to already wonderful city. Overall, the region sees precipitation over an average of 21 days of the month.
The overall daily average temperature is a cold 5°C (41°F). Visitors will want to bring some warm clothing for both the morning and the afternoon hours with an average overnight low of just 2°C (36°F). It is not much warmer later in the day with an average afternoon high only climbing to 7°C (45°F). Of course, any wind will make it feel much colder than it actually is.
This is also not the time to be headed to the beach. With cold temperatures both on land and in the sea, it is best to wait a few months to return to the ocean. The average water temperature for this time of the year is a very chilly 9°C (48°F).
Where to Stay
Each of the 180 guest rooms in the Novotel Edinburgh Centre Hotel are immaculately decorated and this hotel is situated close to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and many of the other sites around town. This four-star hotel offers modern guest rooms, fitness center, bar, restaurant and an indoor pool to enjoy despite the chill of December. Perfect for business travelers or families on holiday, you can't go wrong with this choice.
The Le Monde Hotel Edinburg is a boutique hotel in the center of the city with perfect access to shopping, sites, restaurants and pubs. The sleek rooms are contemporary in design and offer flatscreen TVs, free WiFi, and luxury linens. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at the onsite restaurant as well as spend time in the library, bar or warming up by the fireplace.
The Crowne Plaza Edinburgh Royal Terrace is an upscale hotel featuring complementary WiFi, an indoor pool, gym and is just minutes away from major transportation hubs. Business guests can take advantage of numerous meeting rooms while those on holiday are just minutes away from the best sites in the city. Be sure to get in a good breakfast at the breakfast buffet and enjoy dinner and a drink at the onsite restaurant and bar later in the day.
Restaurants and Nightlife
One of the newest restaurants in the Martin Wishart group and already a winner of a Michelin Star, The Honours is one of the hottest places in the city. The menu combines fresh Scottish ingredients in brasserie-infused dishes. With dishes that are modern and forward thinking, you will not be disappointed. Be sure to pair your dish with one of the wines from the extensive collection.
The Stockbridge Restaurant is a family-run eatery that offers a low key and relaxed atmosphere. Located in a beautifully decorated space, the restaurant offers exceptional food made from the freshest local ingredients. This is a wonderful spot for a romantic dinner for two or for a large family gathering.
If you are looking for a pub with real Scottish and rustic atmosphere, you will find it at The Black Cat. This small pub is warm and welcoming and has live music throughout the day. Look for a large selection of beers as well as whiskeys.
Things to Do
If you are looking for a magical Christmas season, you will find it in Edinburgh. With temperatures just above the freezing mark, it definitely feels like Christmas and visitors will get further into the holiday spirit with ice-skating, 60-thousand plus Christmas lights and more. There are also plenty of concerts and other events for the whole family at Edinburgh's Christmas.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh is the Scottish National Gallery. With free admission and thousands of works of art, there is no reason not see some of the masterpieces located there. The artwork includes collections of paintings, paper, sculpture and photographs. With new pieces being continually added, there is always something new to see.
