Christmas at the Botanics Returns to Light Up Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s most enchanting winter trail is back.

The Royal Botanic Garden once again transforms into a glowing wonderland as Christmas at the Botanics 2025 opens on 20 November, running on selected evenings until 30 December.

Now a firm favourite in the city’s festive calendar, the illuminated trail blends art, light, and music with the garden’s natural beauty.

This year’s route features several new installations, including Night Birds, Heart Arch Walk, and a sweeping Laser Lights Canopy that brings a burst of colour to the treetops.

Visitors can follow a one-way path that takes around 75 to 90 minutes to complete, with plenty of food stalls and photo stops along the way.

A Night of Light and Sound

Each year the event feels a little different, and 2025’s edition leans into nature-inspired design and sustainability. The lighting designers have worked closely with the Garden’s horticultural team to ensure the displays complement the existing landscape rather than overpower it.

Families, couples, and groups of friends drift through shimmering tunnels, past glowing sculptures and mirrored water reflections set to a gentle festive soundtrack. It’s immersive but calm — a perfect antidote to the city centre crowds.

Hot chocolate, mulled wine, and local street-food stands add to the atmosphere, while the towering Cathedral of Light makes a return as one of the most photographed points on the trail.

Plan Your Visit

Christmas at the Botanics operates with timed entry slots, so advance booking is strongly recommended. Doors open from 4.15 pm, with last entry around 8 pm depending on the date. As the trail is entirely outdoors, warm clothing and comfortable shoes are essential.

📍 Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Inverleith Row, EH3 5LR
📅 Selected evenings 20 Nov – 30 Dec 2025
🎟️ Book via the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh website

The event draws thousands each winter and consistently sells out — a reminder of how much this illuminated garden has become part of Edinburgh’s modern Christmas tradition.