The most vibrant and charming high street in Scotland has been named – and it’s perfect for a festive trip.
Victoria Street in Edinburgh is beautiful at any time of year but especially at Christmas(Image: Getty)
The countdown to Christmas is now officially on and with less than two months to go until December 25, thoughts are already firmly fixed on shopping and festive days out.
Fortunately, you can merge both activities on a historic thoroughfare that has been crowned the most lively and enchanting high street in all of Scotland.
Ideal for a seasonal excursion, Victoria Street in Edinburgh has been recognised among the finest high streets across the entire UK, according to research from travel enthusiasts at Sweepstakes Table.
The online platform pinpointed the top locations where historical charm meets modern energy and where the Christmas spirit truly comes alive. Victoria Street, alongside the wider Old Town district surrounding it, sits sixth in Scotland, reports the Scottish Daily Express.
Known as Edinburgh’s ‘Harry Potter street’, Victoria Street’s colourful buildings, shops and pubs make it one of Britain’s most magical spots.(Image: Getty Images)
Recognised as ‘the Harry Potter street’ thanks to its resemblance to Diagon Alley from the JK Rowling novels (though Rowling has denied it was an inspiration), Victoria Street features brightly coloured buildings, independent shops, atmospheric pubs and period shopfronts.
Visitors flock to this cobblestone street each winter to soak up the magic of the capital, with Sweepstakes Table describing it as one of “the most striking streetscapes in Britain”.
The structures are “painted in vibrant hues that pop against Edinburgh’s grey stone surroundings”, while in winter, “giant lights and projections illuminate the Old Town skyline, so the medieval stones glow with festive atmosphere.”
The analysis concluded: “The mix of dramatic architecture, rich history and spectacular light displays turns this area into one of Scotland’s most memorable Christmas destinations.”
Victoria Street winds down from King George IV Bridge towards the Grassmarket before merging into West Bow Street. Along the way, you’ll find everything from artisan bookshops to speciality cheese stores, and traditional pubs such as Finnegans Wake and Bow Bar.
Whilst the city’s famous Christmas market takes place nearby, Victoria Street provides all the essentials for a festive day out.
From here, visitors can explore some of Edinburgh’s most loved Christmas attractions, including the Castle of Light, where dazzling projections illuminate Edinburgh Castle from mid-November to January.
Just a short stroll away, the Torchlight Procession sees thousands parade through the Old Town to Holyrood Park, while families can enjoy a classic Cinderella panto at the Edinburgh Playhouse.
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Those seeking a luxurious festive treat can stop by The Dome, famed for its breathtaking decorations and afternoon teas, or browse the Summerhall Christmas Market for local crafts and vegan delicacies.
Beyond the city centre, Hopetoun House hosts a Christmas Shopping Fair with over 60 stalls, and Jupiter Artland’s Christmas Fair brings artisan stalls, live music and Santa’s grotto to life on select December weekends.
For something more unconventional, the Shrek-inspired Swamplesque show blends burlesque, drag and humour for adults, proving that Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations truly offer something for everyone.
Whether wandering down Victoria Street’s twinkling shopfronts or venturing to the city’s grand festive events, Edinburgh remains one of the UK’s most magical destinations at Christmas.
10 most vibrant high streets in the UK this Christmas
- Milsom Street – Bath
- The Shambes – York
- Carnaby Street – London
- Eastgate Street – Chester
- The Lanes – Brighton
- Victoria Street & Old Town High Street area – Edinburgh
- Marylebone High Street – London
- Westgate/Northgate/Eastgate High Streets – Gloucester
- Green Street & surrounding High-Street Area – Bath
- Seven Dials / Covent Garden High Street Cluster – London