Christmas cocktails in the capital
Edinburgh is the place to be for tipples that sparkle with holiday cheer.
As the capital city transforms into a winter wonderland, its cocktail scene takes on a merry twist. Think cosy nooks adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal concoctions that warm the soul.
Here are Hood’s favourite places for magical ambience, delightful libations and last-minute gift ideas…
Fingal
This magical ship was recently awarded Scotland’s Hotel of the Year and it’s not hard to see why. While the rest of the city bustles, experience the unhurried luxury of life on board Fingal and delight your taste buds with a signature cocktail or two. The Lighthouse Bar Martini has become a firm favourite – or why not try Yard No. 140, the name Fingal was given when she was first commissioned. Relax under the shimmering ceiling and watch the vibrant vessels of Leith Docks come and go.
A reservation for cocktails must be made in advance and is only available by calling the Reservations team on +44 (0)131 357 5000.
Still got some shopping still to do? Treat a loved one to a Fingal gift voucher for two cocktails per person in The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar onboard for £60 at fingal.co.uk.
The Ivy on the Square
A Christmas Eve visit to The Ivy on the Square is now a Hood family tradition. From the Instagram-worthy Christmas installation to the picture-perfect cocktails and desserts it never fails to serve serious festive vibes. This twinkling haven is a veritable taste of Christmas.
Purchase a Champagne Celebration Festive Voucher gift card for £100 and they will receive a complimentary bottle of The Ivy Champagne when they redeem. Available at theivycollection.com.
The Spence at Gleneagles Townhouse
After a busy day of Christmas shopping you deserve to recuperate with a restorative cocktail. And for maximum festive feel-good it has to be The Spence. Book seats at the central bar which sits beneath an extraordinary glass-domed ceiling. Sample locally inspired seasonal cocktails, local whiskies, beers, spirits, and wines while you drink in the Christmassy atmosphere.
Fancy giving the gift of ‘laid-back vibes'? Gift cards for The Spence start from £50 at gleneaglestownhouse.com.
Bar Prince at The Balmoral
There is something incredibly special and super seasonal about a candlelit luxury hotel bar and Bar Prince consistently exceeds expectations. Because of everything from its first-class, five-star service to its expertly created cocktails, this place is always on the list of the most sophisticated cocktail connoisseurs. Our favourite tipple? I thought you’d never ask – make mine a French Martini. The best in town.
Who wouldn’t want to find a Gin Tasting Experience for Two at Bar Prince in their stocking? Your loved one will discover The Balmoral's very own gin, Baile Mhoireil, and enjoy two exquisite cocktails and a perfect serve featuring sliced pink grapefruit, sprig of rosemary, Fever-Tree Tonic
And of course, the house spirit. This gift experience is £60 per person with vouchers available online at roccofortehotels.com.
Tattu
If you enjoy your libations with plenty of drama and theatre may we steer you in the direction of Tattu? If the interior of this contemporary Chinese restaurant doesn’t blow your socks off, festive cocktails including The Iced Skull Candy, Great Snow and the Zhanshi will. By taking inspiration from the wonderful world of alternative medicine immersed in Chinese culture the curious concoctions and deliciously innovative drinks are as magical as Christmas itself.
Gift cards start at £25, but for £65 your loved one can enjoy the exciting Celestial Dragon. Designed for two, this smoking concoction combines gin with almond and roasted tea to provide a balanced and regal drinking experience. Available at tattu.co.uk