What to eat in Edinburgh in January: Seasonal delicacies
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Haggis, neeps and tatties
A savoury pudding served with mashed swede and potato, tied closely to Burns season. In January, it fits Burns Night dining. Many places offer vegetarian haggis. Tip: book a Burns Supper menu early if you travel around January 25. Try: Edinburgh (venue list includes Arcade Bar on Cockburn St, details TBC).
A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and leeks, originally from Moray. In January, it suits chilly, short-day sightseeing. It is not vegetarian and can contain dairy. Tip: order it for lunch, then do outdoor viewpoints while it is still light. Try: Edinburgh (venue list includes Mussel Inn on Rose St, details TBC).
A structured set of Scotch whiskies to compare regions and styles, reflecting Scotland’s distilling culture. In January, it works as an indoor plan after dark. It is naturally gluten-free but not suitable if you avoid alcohol. Tip: start with lighter drams first and drink water between pours. Try: Edinburgh (venue list includes The Bow Bar, details TBC).
January in Edinburgh is a study in contrasts. With average highs around 6°C (43°F) and just over seven hours of daylight, the city feels hushed after Hogmanay’s fireworks fade. Frost dusts the cobbles, and the air carries the scent of woodsmoke and damp stone. Museums glow invitingly, and pubs beckon with the promise of warmth and whisky. The city’s iconic calm is punctuated by Burns Night suppers, candlelit concerts, and the delicate white blooms of the Snowdrop Festival. While daylight is short and the weather brisk, off-season deals and quiet streets offer a rare intimacy. Dress for the cold, plan indoor afternoons, and let Edinburgh’s winter charm unfold at your pace.
Pro tips for visiting Edinburgh in January
Book Burns Night suppers and concerts early—January 25 events fill up quickly across the city.
Take advantage of winter hotel deals and restaurant promotions for off-peak savings.
Schedule outdoor sightseeing for midday when daylight is at its longest; save museums for late afternoons.
Many attractions open late or close on January 1–2; check hours if visiting right after Hogmanay.
Use contactless payment on buses for capped fares—no need for exact change.
Try a Friday night ceilidh at Summerhall for a lively local experience.
Dress in layers and bring a rainproof jacket—wind and cold rain are common.
If planning a Highlands day trip, check weather and road conditions for snow disruptions.
Festivals and events in Edinburgh this January 2026
A multi-day programme celebrating Robert Burns through contemporary art, music, and literature. It is expected in late January (January 25-31, TBC dates). Venues vary, so plan by neighbourhood. Popular headline nights can sell out, and restaurants book early for Burns week.
A seasonal garden programme showcasing snowdrop displays across Scotland, including Edinburgh viewing at the Royal Botanic Garden. It runs January 25 to March 12. Visit on weekday mornings for quieter paths. Weather is wintery, so dress for cold wind and damp ground.
An annual January-only display of J.M.W. Turner watercolours at the Scottish National Gallery, shown only in this month to limit light exposure. It runs January 1-31 and is free. Expect more visitors on weekends. Pair it with nearby New Town walks if weather allows.
Edinburgh’s main winter festival with Christmas Market chalets, rides, and seasonal attractions across Princes Street Gardens, George Street, and St Andrew Square. It is expected November 13 to January 3. Crowds peak on weekends and evenings. Visit early in the season on a weekday if you want shorter lines and easier walking space.
Ticketed New Year celebrations centred on Princes Street, with live music and a midnight fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle. Dates are December 31, 2025 to January 1, 2026. Expect road closures and heavy crowding in the city centre. Buy tickets in advance and plan how you will get home after midnight.
An annual fancy-dress plunge into the Firth of Forth at South Queensferry on New Year’s Day. Date is January 1, 2026. You can participate or watch the parade and dip from the waterfront. Dress for cold wind, and arrive early because viewing areas fill quickly.
A formal Burns Night gala with dinner, haggis ceremony, live music, poetry, and ceilidh dancing in a historic manor hotel. Date is January 23, 2026. It is ticketed and aimed at travellers who want a structured, dress-up Scottish evening. Reserve well ahead because capacity is limited.
A citywide celebration of Robert Burns with haggis suppers, poetry readings, whisky toasts, and sometimes ceilidhs. Date is January 25, 2026. Restaurants and hotels run set menus, so book in advance. Choose a venue close to where you are staying because winter nights are cold and daylight is short.
A special overnight tram service planned for Hogmanay night, running late on December 31, 2026 into January 1, 2027 with services every twenty minutes. It helps you return from city-centre celebrations to stops along the airport to Newhaven line. Check official timetables before you rely on it. Expect crowding right after midnight.
Edinburgh in January at a glance
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Weather
Maximum temperature: 6°C
Minimum temperature: 1°C
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Daylight
Around 7 hours 20 minutes of daylight
Sunrise: 8:40am
Sunset: 4pm
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Key events
Burns & Beyond Festival, Scottish Snowdrop Festival, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party & Fireworks, Loony Dook (New Year’s Day Dip)
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Crowds
Fewer tourists, shorter queues at attractions, and a quieter overall vibe, as locals may be on holiday.
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What to pack
Thermal layers, waterproof coat, gloves, wool socks, hat, umbrella, smart casual for Burns Night.
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Seasonal treats
Haggis suppers at restaurants citywide (Burns Night), Cullen Skink at Mussel Inn, hot toddies in Old Town pubs
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