2023 is officially over and everyone’s wondering where the year went. It might be a little peculiar to realise it’s already 2024, and January can often feel like having 100 days instead of 31. So, we’ve summoned a noteworthy list of ideas to make the start of the year as exhilarating as ever. And there you have it; all the awesome things to do in Edinburgh this January.
1. Have one last bash around the Edinburgh Christmas market
That’s right, Edinburgh Christmas Market is only around for six days in January, so hurry up and have that one last mulled wine and a ride in the massive Ferris wheel. Head down to Princes Street and George Street for that final festive fix, so it’s not too late when you realise what you have on your doorstep. Our own winter wonderland is precious and worth savouring while it lasts!
2. Embark on a beer tour
Beer enthusiasts can embark on the Edinburgh Beer Tour, where a friendly host will guide them through some hoppy beer tasting in the Scottish capital while telling some brewing stories. Expect tutored beer tastings at three pubs, as well as a local pub guide with special offers. Plus, visitors will also enjoy a wee tour of the Edinburgh Old Town while walking in between the pubs on the two-and-a-half-hour tour. You can book your tickets on Fever.
3. Tuck into juicy burgers at Gordon Ramsay Street Burger
Gordon Ramsay Restaurants has introduced an exciting addition to Edinburgh’s burger scene, and it’s Gordon Ramsay Street Burger in St James Quarter. Oh, and the new joint also boasts Street Fighter II and Pacman arcade games ready to play. The concept is simple and inviting, with a menu that’s creative, yet not too overcrowded. Guests can choose from a variety of juicy burgers, wings, sides and sharers, as well as a small selection of desserts.
4. Visit the ‘world’s most instagrammable café’ decked in colour pink
Get your phones out, because this is going to be Edinburgh’s next photo spot. A brand new super eye-catchy café has just opened its doors in St James Quarter in Edinburgh, and it’s called EL&N. Covered in pink hues throughout, the spot was deemed the ‘most instagrammable café in the world’, and we’re obsessed with every single corner. An alluring atmosphere wouldn’t be complete without instagrammable lattes, and there are plenty of those: visitors can opt for a decaf Red Velvet Latte that is pink in colour, with red velvet cake syrup, beetroot powder, melted chocolate and whipped cream (without coffee).
5. Try Sam Heughan’s new whisky at The Kitchin Group restaurants around Edinburgh
The Kitchin Group venues were the first to list the brand new The Sassenach Whisky, where Michelin Star Chef Tom Kitchin and Outlander star Sam Heughan joined forces to bring out the best of Scottish flavours. Whisky enthusiasts can now indulge in the innovative whisky at all four of Chef Tom Kitchin’s venues, including the Michelin Starred The Kitchin in Leith, The Scran & Scallie in Stockbridge, KORA by TK in Brunstfield and The Bonnie Badger in Gullane. So, pick your spot and get tasting!
6. Go see Shrek The Musical
Shrek The Musical is coming to Edinburgh Playhouse between January 22 and 27, 2024, featuring a stellar cast with Antony Lawrence and Joanne Clifton. Spectators will be taken to a land Far Far Away and join Shrek and Donkey on an adventure to complete their quest of defeating the dragon and saving Princess Fiona. Featuring fabulous songs including ‘I’m A Believer’, ‘Big Bright Beautiful World’ and ’I Know It’s Today’. Today, Shrek the Musical is officially known as the “musical extravaganza for big and little kids alike”.
7. Delight yourself in a melodic tribute to Taylor Swift you’ve never seen before
Immerse yourself in all the Taylor Swift feels by enjoying her music meticulously performed under the dimmed hues of candlelight on January 11. In this classical concert, music lovers will be able to witness the iconic tunes of Taylor Swift in a way never composed before, performed by a string quartet, The Quartet Scotland. The concert will take place at Ghillie Dhu, a traditional Scottish bar that will be transformed in the soft glow of candlelight. You can book your tickets here.
8. Pay a visit to the Chihuahua café
Yes, hidden in plain sight, Edinburgh has a Chihuahua Café, you guessed it, filled with chihuahuas. Ever wondered why people constantly walk a flock of chihuahuas on Princes Street? Well, now you know, and you can go say hello to all of them indoors. Located on Fredrick Street, the café is bookings only and has seven beautiful chihuahuas ready for cuddles: Ama, Lady Bee, Cleopatra, Elsa, Faery, Gatsby and Hepburn. To book your 50-minute session, head to their website.
9. Escape the city and enjoy a brisk winter walk near Loch Lomond
Let’s face it: Edinburghers love a good walk. And our readers love a good walking article, so do we. As we have such scenic vistas right on our doorstep, go for a short hike near Loch Lomond to recharge and breathe some clean air. For example, the Conic Hill route will take you up onto Conic Hill where you will find jaw-dropping panoramic views of Loch Lomond. The trail starts at Balmaha and is only 3.9km, taking around 2 hours to complete, including plenty of time spent taking in the views. However, the loop trek takes hikers back down onto a steep path, so if you’re just wanting an easy day, go back down the same way you went up.
10. Check out Edinburgh’s newest Thai food spot
Located on Fredrick Street, Rosa’s Thai is Edinburgh’s newest addition to the capital’s Thai food scene. Check out their Pad Thai, Tom Yum Tofu and the Spring Rolls. Plus, we are obsessed with the Mango Boba Colada, which is essentially a boozy bubble tea! With a tasteful yet non-pretentious decor, the spot is warm and welcoming for every occasion.
11. Discover the chapel of mysteries from the Da Vinci Code
Rosslyn Chapel is located just seven miles outside of Edinburgh, surrounded by myths and legends. The architectural wonder was a huge inspiration for the famous novel The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown, and Rosslyn Chapel was the location of its finale. What is more, the location has been the focal point of many myths, legends and magic for centuries. Go discover for yourself and uncover mysteries long forgotten.
12. Try Mozzarella-filled Korean Hot Dogs
You heard that right, Korean Munchies on Nicholson Street are serving up Korean Hot Dogs with sausage and Mozzarella, fit for street food royalty. The wee eatery also does a killer Bibimbap, as well as some stunning Youbookimbap. With a laid-back atmosphere, guests can just enjoy some decent authentic Korean street food.