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Quick answer
Edinburgh has two big Christmas light trails in 2026. Christmas at the Botanics runs from 19 November to 30 December at the Royal Botanic Garden, with timed entry from 4.15pm. Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns runs on selected nights from 13 November 2026 to 21 February 2027, from £14. Both need tickets booked in advance.
The two main light trails at a glance
| Christmas at the Botanics | Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns | |
|---|---|---|
| Dates | 19 Nov – 30 Dec 2026 | Selected nights, 13 Nov 2026 – 21 Feb 2027 |
| Times | Timed entry, about 4.15pm – 8pm | 4.45pm – 9pm, last entry 8pm |
| Tickets | Book in advance; under-4s free | From £14 (varies by night) |
| Where | Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith (EH3 5NZ) | Edinburgh Zoo, Corstorphine |
| Time to allow | 60–90 minutes for the mile-long trail | About 1–1½ hours |
Dates and times as published in October 2026. Prices change by date, so check the official ticket pages.
Christmas at the Botanics
A mile-long illuminated trail through the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh after dark. Entry is by timed ticket each evening from about 4.15pm, and advance booking is essential, especially for weekends in December. Children under 4 go free. The paths are flat, and there are relaxed sessions for visitors who prefer quieter, gentler lighting.
Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns
This year's lantern trail has a space theme, "Journey beyond the stars", with glowing galaxies and giant cosmic creatures. It runs on 60 selected nights from Friday 13 November 2026 to Sunday 21 February 2027, from 4.45pm, with tickets from £14. There is an adults-only evening and two quiet nights. It is especially good for children under ten.
Combine it with the Christmas market
Many visitors do a light trail and Edinburgh's Christmas market on the same trip. The market in East Princes Street Gardens runs from 14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 (closed on Christmas Day). Weekday evenings are much quieter than weekends.
Getting there
- The Botanics is about 15 minutes from Princes Street by car, in Inverleith. Parking nearby is limited on trail nights.
- Edinburgh Zoo is on Corstorphine Road, on the way to the airport: about 10 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes from the city centre by car.
- With children or a group, a pre-booked car or people carrier saves waiting at bus stops in the cold after dark. Your driver can drop you at the entrance and collect you when the trail finishes.
Flying in for a festive weekend? Our Edinburgh Airport transfers track your flight and include 60 minutes' free waiting.
Frequently asked questions
When is Christmas at the Botanics 2026?
From 19 November to 30 December 2026 at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, with timed entry slots each evening from about 4.15pm. Advance booking is essential.
When are Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns on?
On 60 selected nights from 13 November 2026 to 21 February 2027, from 4.45pm to 9pm. Tickets start from £14.
How do I get to Christmas at the Botanics?
The garden is in Inverleith, about 15 minutes by car from Princes Street. Parking is limited on trail nights, so a pre-booked car that drops you at the gate is the easiest option, especially with children.
Sources
Facts, fares and timetables checked 26 October 2026. They change, so check with the operator before you travel.