10 festive days out for all the family

The explosion of twinkling lights, glowing fairground rides, packed markets and the mouth-watering aroma of mulled wine and mince pies can mean only one thing ...

One of the most popular events in the UK, Edinburgh Loves Christmas, is back!

A cool new addition this year is The Ice Adventure. Up until December 24, on the west side of George Street, the attraction takes visitors on a journey through frozen Scotland.

From mythical creatures to historical figures, the lifelike ice and snow sculptures are truly something to behold. Another new offering is the Giant Advent Calendar which is being projected nightly on to General Register House, featuring scenes from past winters.

Princes Street Gardens is once again home to a winter wonderland, based around a towering, sparkling tree on the Mound.

Enjoy panoramic views of the capital from the top of the big wheel, spin around on the charming carousel in East Princes Street Gardens’ Santa Land or brave a twirl on the star flyer.

Children love Santa Land, a festive fairground with six fun rides and a market full of gifts and toys.

They can also seek out the elves’ workshop hidden in the Christmas Tree Maze, or visit Santa’s Grotto.

St Andrew Square is hosting an oval ice rink, looping around the Melville Monument. Hire a pair of skates and spin around, or try to climb the glistening ice wall.

Getting down to the business of shopping – and enjoying the odd indulgence in the process – the traditional Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens offers a unique experience featuring an array of crafters and artists.

The market also spreads along George Street, where you’ll find more of the same.

Give yourself plenty of time to peruse the stalls, and don’t worry about the cold – you’ll find lots of hot food and drink for sale along the way to keep you warm.

And, of course, there’s the opportunity to truly get into the festive spirit with a steaming mug of mulled wine or a festive-flavoured hot chocolate.

After a few hours taking in the delights of Auld Reekie’s Yuletide attractions, you’ll find it’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.