Scotland’s Christmas history is as rich as its landscape. With centuries-old traditions passed down through generations, this festive season holds a special place in Scottish hearts. Although once banned in the 1600s and only recognized as a public holiday in 1958, Christmas in Scotland has evolved into a celebration full of unique customs, and there’s no better place to enjoy the spirit of the season than in Edinburgh, with its blend of history, culture, and festive cheer. At The Roseate Edinburgh, you’re perfectly positioned to experience the best of a Scottish Christmas, all while soaking in the luxury of your surroundings.

The magic of Christmas is infused with rituals that go back centuries, adding tulles of charm to the holiday season.

1. One such tradition is Yule Bread, a festive loaf plaited into a circle to symbolize the Sun, often filled with caraway seeds and baked with a hidden trinket to bring good luck for the year ahead. While you may not find this loaf on every table today, the sentiment of sharing a slice of fortune is still very much alive in the warm gatherings and festive spirit that fill Edinburgh during this season.

Dining with friends and family is a cherished practise, especially on Boxing Day. Loved by the locals for Christmas dining in Edinburgh, our Christmas Menu is a feast and an absolute must-try.

2. The practice of burning Rowan Twigs, an old custom believed to ward off jealousy and bad feelings, bringing harmony to the household. As you stroll through Edinburgh’s historic streets, illuminated with twinkling lights, you can almost feel the echoes of this ritual, reminding us that Christmas is a time for peace and goodwill.

3. One of the more lively traditions is First-Footing, where the first guest to enter your home on Christmas Day brings gifts like whisky, salt, or black buns, symbolizing good fortune for the year ahead. While you might not be expecting a visitor with a basket of treats, the warm welcome you receive in Scotland’s capital and the festive offerings around every corner with us will make you feel as if you’ve been blessed by the tradition yourself.

4. Candles in Windows – At your stay with us, you will quickly realise that the festive season is about more than just luxury—it’s about experiencing the rich heritage that makes Scotland so special at this time of year. The historic city occasionally glimmers with candles in windows, a symbol of welcoming strangers that dates back centuries. As you walk through Edinburgh’s ancient streets, lit with festive warmth, the Scottish tradition of hospitality becomes more than just a custom—it’s a feeling that stays with you.

5. Scottish Festive Flavours- Of course, no Christmas is complete without indulgent festive treats. Clootie Dumpling, a traditional spiced pudding wrapped in cloth and simmered for hours, is a must-try during the festive season in Scotland. Relish seasonal dishes at our in-house restaurant, The Dunstane Restaurant and Bar, considered one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh, or sip on a dram of whisky to warm up after exploring the city- you will be warmly embraced in centuries of tradition in every bite and sip.

6. The burning of the Yule log- The Celts knew Christmas as ‘Nollaig Beag’ Little Christmas, and they burned the ‘Cailleach’ – a log carved with the face of an old woman, also known as the Hag of Winter – who brought the long nights and the cold. Burning the log was supposed to banish the cold and darkness and to take away any lingering bad luck. Lean into more fascinating stories and folklores with us while enjoying one of the best places for drinks in Edinburgh.

 So, as you wander beneath the mistletoe, savour a mince pie, or enjoy a whisky by the fire, take a moment to reflect on the generations who have kept these customs alive. And perhaps, during your Christmas in Scotland, you’ll add a few new traditions of your own.