In the past I’ve been put off by the long queues and slot booking system, feeling rushed in and out as your little delight reads off their list of demands to Kris Cringle.
The gang meeting Santa – we will be back.
Finding a cost friendly and stress free Christmas event in the capital can be a difficult task.
Especially when you consider meeting Santa, a lot of the grotto’s can feel impersonal, and at times a bit corporate – not what you want when your kid is looking for a chat with the big red man.
In the past I’ve been put off by the long queues and slot booking system, feeling rushed in and out as your little delight reads off their list of demands to Kris Cringle.
I was close to giving up on the idea and donning the red and white myself, deepening the voice, and dyeing the beard white before we decided to head down to The Balerno Inn for a ‘Roast with Santa.’
The village inn is a dying breed, far too often local pubs have fallen into the hands of umbrella groups which make them impersonal bistro settings which lack character or edible food.
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The Balerno Inn breaks the trend, when you walk through the door you’re hit by a warmth and character, the staff have beaming smiles and chatter amongst locals and guests effortlessly unfolds.
We had been drenched by a down pour when we got into the pub and were shown to our seats by very festive looking staff member.
They made a real effort with the kids and the whole vibe was so relaxed, it felt intimate.
I was concerned the place would be overcrowded with punters squeezed in to maximise the returns on their quirky roast idea but the opposite was true.
The event was sold out but families had space to breathe and kids the chance to unwind, colour and play a spot the naughty elf game with staff.
A smorgasbord of goodies were delivered to the table to kick off the food, haggis bon-bons, olives, pretzels, breads and hummus along with some cheesy bites.
It was all delicious with each item being devoured by our toddler.
Next up was the roast, which is The Balerno Inn’s speciality, and it came with all the trimmings to accompany the roast turkey.
It was an incredible dish, everything on the plate was packed with flavour and cooked to perfection.
The main was washed down with a well poured Guinness and a glass of house red for the wife.
It really filled the belly while we awaited our visit with Santa and his little helpers who were prompt in coming and collecting our small sprogs.
Despite a dreich night, our eldest was overjoyed when he got to meet the main man in his temporary beer garden grotto, where he received a present, a warm chat and some sweeties for his stocking.
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It was a really nice alternative to the chaos of shopping centre grottos or the morning rush of a breakfast with Santa – we will certainly be returning in 2026.
You can follow The Balerno Inn for updates on their events for 2026 here.