Edinburgh's Lost Christmas: History & Mystery Walking Tour
Old Town, Edinburgh, Edinburgh
Activity
Official tickets via GetYourGuide
Christmas almost disappeared from Scotland for centuries. Explore Edinburgh’s atmospheric Old Town, uncover its lost festive traditions, and follow clues to help bring Christmas back to the city.
Highlights
- Discover why Christmas nearly disappeared from Scotland for centuries.
- Follow playful clues through Edinburgh’s atmospheric Old Town.
- Finish your festive investigation near Edinburgh’s Christmas Market.
Description
Step into Edinburgh’s shadowy Old Town and discover the curious story of the Christmas Scotland nearly lost. Beginning at historic Mercat Cross, meet your guide easy to spot in a bright yellow hat and set out on a festive investigation through cobbled streets, hidden closes and centuries of Scottish history. Discover why Christmas celebrations were discouraged and suppressed for generations, and hear how ordinary people quietly kept warmth, generosity and winter traditions alive. Along the way, uncover stories connected to religion, royal power, old superstitions, witch trials and the darker side of Edinburgh’s past. Follow playful clues inspired by Jamie, a fictional young messenger searching for the missing pieces of Christmas. Work together with your fellow investigators to recover the festive spirit through light interactive moments woven naturally into the historical storytelling. Pass atmospheric landmarks and hear about old Yule customs, winter beliefs and the traditions that eventually returned to Scotland. The experience is family-friendly, with gentle spooky moments, humour and plenty of Christmas magic. Your journey finishes near Edinburgh’s beautifully illuminated Christmas Market, where the darkness of the Old Town gives way to festive lights. Take home a small souvenir from the investigation and perhaps celebrate your success with a hot chocolate or mulled wine of your own.Includes
90-minute guided walking tour Professional English-speaking guide Historical storytelling and festive mysteries Playful clues and interactive moments Small Lost Christmas souvenir cardExcludes
Food and drinks Hot chocolate or mulled wine Transportation to and from the meeting point Hotel pickup and drop-off Personal purchases at Edinburgh’s Christmas MarketImportant Information
- This outdoor walking tour runs in all weather conditions. The route includes cobbled streets, slopes and uneven surfaces. The experience contains mildly spooky historical themes but remains family-friendly. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
