2022 is officially over and everyone’s wondering where the year went. It might be a little peculiar to realise it’s already 2023, 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 four 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 had on your doorstep. Our own winter wonderland is precious and worth savouring while it lasts!
2. Go to a sensational club night with radio host DJ Sam Divine
To liven up the grey January skies, the successful 360º club night specialising in unconventional locations will debut Edinburgh 360º on January 27, 2023. Edinburgh’s unconventional location will be St Mary’s Cathedral, and DJ Sam Divine will be playing in the centre of the room: so, party goers will be given a unique experience throughout. The combination of the stunning historical setting with stained glass windows and the upbeat contemporary house and electronic music is not only a must-see, but also a one of a kind experience Edinburghers don’t get to see often. Dance away at this extended three-hour set, and get booking here.
3. Try the juicy burgers at the brand new 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. Check out the new Doctor Who Worlds Of Wonder exhibition
The Scottish premiere of the Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition is open at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. This unique new exhibition, running from December 9 until May 1, 2023, explores the science behind the global hit television series Doctor Who and gives fans the opportunity to experience the Doctor’s adventures first-hand, from a scientific perspective. Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder offers a true exploration of science for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. You can book your tickets here.
5. 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).
6. 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!
7. Go see the smash-hit West End musical My Fair Lady at the Edinburgh Playhouse
New York’s Lincoln Center Theater’s critically acclaimed and an award-winning production of Lerner & Loewe’s much-loved My Fair Lady will show in Edinburgh Playhouse until Saturday, January 7 while on its UK Tour. My Fair Lady tells the story of a young common flower girl Eliza Doolittle, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor determined to transform her into his idea of a ‘proper lady’. The musical has been blessed with a stellar cast, and Secret Edinburgh had the chance to chat with Heather Jackson herself about My Fair Lady, the role of Mrs Higgins and her career. To read the full interview and to find out more about the production, check it out here.
8. 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 19. 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 The Caves, a sub-structure of South Bridge that offers an enchanting peek into 18th Century Edinburgh that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For example, one of the vaults used to be known as Whiskey Row, as it was stored to the brim with whisky. Can you get any more Scottish than that? You can book your tickets here.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. See The Panto: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs show
While King’s Theatre is closed for two years for a significant refurb, Festival Theatre is taking on one of Edinburgh’s most famous panto shows this winter. Showing until January 22, The Panto: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be delightfully marvelling Edinburgh’s spectators this January. The extravagantly lavish production from the London Palladium is expected to be packed full of music, magic and joy for the entire family. The cast is also absolutely lovely, starring Allan Stewart, Grant Stott, Jordan Young, Clare Gray, Liz Ewing, Brian James Leys, and Francesca Ross. You can book your tickets here.