Planning a Festive Trip to Edinburgh With Your Dog? My Top Dog-Friendly Picks 🎄🐾
Edinburgh is honestly one of my favourite places at any time of year — but at Christmas? It’s something else entirely.
The medieval streets, the cobbles, the architecture, the twinkling lights… even the smells feel festive. Roasting chestnuts, mulled wine, delicious street food drifting through the air. Add in the sound of bagpipes, street performers, and Christmas music around every corner, and it feels like you’ve stepped straight into a festive film.
Living so close to Edinburgh, it’s a must-visit for me every single Christmas and it never loses that magical sparkle.
I could honestly write a whole book on dog-friendly Edinburgh (maybe one day! 😂), but for now, here are my top places to explore with your dog in the city this festive season.
🎄 Edinburgh Christmas Market
No Christmas trip is complete without a wander through the markets.
Dogs are welcome on lead, it’s best to avoid the busiest times if you can — it gets packed. But with Edinburgh Castle watching over you, the lights, the atmosphere, the food stalls, and all the festive buzz, it’s absolutely worth it.
Hot chocolate for you, new smells for your dog… perfect combo.
🛍️ St James Quarter – Dog Friendly Christmas Shopping
Yes — St James Quarter is dog friendly!
Just keep your dog on a lead and look out for the wee paw-print stickers on the shop windows to see which stores welcome dogs. Their website also lists all pet-friendly shops if you want to plan ahead.
✨ Bonus: they offer free dog pram/backpack hire for up to 4 hours, which is ideal for small dogs or tired wee legs after a day of festive exploring.
🎅🐾 Visit ‘Santa Paws’ at Dobbies
A little outside the city centre, but such a fun festive outing.
- Meet Santa (and the elves!)
- Your dog receives a special gift
- Optional professional photos
- Lovely, Christmassy atmosphere
Loads of sniffy opportunities and perfect if you want a festive keepsake.
⛪ Step Inside Historic St Giles’ Cathedral
A calm escape from the crowds — and yes, dogs are welcome!
St Giles has been dog friendly since the 17th century, thanks to minister James Knox, who allowed dogs inside after a local dog was saved by a friend. The cathedral is stunning, peaceful, and full of history.
Perfect for a quiet moment in the middle of a busy day.
⛰️ Walk One of Edinburgh’s Iconic Hills
Scottish weather can be… unpredictable 😅 so dress for the occasion. But if the weather is kind, the views are incredible.
Arthur’s Seat
A proper trek but so worth it. An ancient dormant volcano offering breathtaking views over the whole city.
Calton Hill
Easier and quicker, but equally beautiful.
With historic monuments, observatories, and that iconic skyline view, it’s one of the best photo spots in Edinburgh. There’s even a lovely café serving seasonal, locally sourced food.
🌊 Dean Village – A Peaceful Escape
Just minutes from Princes Street but feels like a different world.
Dean Village sits along the Water of Leith and is one of the prettiest, most peaceful walks in the city. It used to be the centre of Edinburgh’s water mills, and you can still see so much of the old architecture.
It’s the perfect slow stroll with your dog, especially if you want a break from the hustle and bustle.
🎬 Dog-Friendly Cinema at The Cameo
Yes, a cinema for dogs!
The Cameo Picturehouse runs occasional dog-friendly screenings (usually on Sunday mornings).
They lower the volume, keep the lights slightly brighter, and even provide water bowls and blankets for the pups. Such a cosy way to end a festive weekend.
🐾 A Visit to Greyfriars Bobby
The most famous dog in Edinburgh deserves a stop.
Greyfriars Bobby, a wee Skye Terrier, stayed by his owner John Gray’s grave for 14 years after he passed away. His loyalty made him a legend, and his statue — just outside Greyfriars Kirkyard — is one of the city’s most loved spots.
A must-visit for any dog lover.
And honestly, that’s just the beginning. Edinburgh is packed with dog-friendly pubs, cafés, and restaurants — but that deserves a blog of its own 😂
🎒What to Pack for Your Dog’s Festive Trip to Edinburgh
To make your day as smooth and cosy as possible, here are some of my favourite picks from Lilipet that are ideal for a winter dog day out in the city:
🎄 Festive Looks
Adds the cutest festive touch for market photos, Christmas lights and café stops.
🌧 Weather-Ready Must-Haves
Lightweight, smart, and perfect for Scotland’s unpredictable December weather.
🐾 City Walk Essentials
Neutral and classy — ideal for exploring pretty streets and taking photos.
The perfect hands-free dog-walk bag for treats, poo bags, your phone and keys.
❄️ Cosy Nights Away
Festive, soft and perfect for snuggling up after a long day.
🐶 Small Dog Must-Have
Great for tiny legs in busy areas or when they get tired halfway through the day.
🐕🦺 For Older Dogs or Long Days
Ideal if your dog struggles with long distances but you still want them with you for the whole day.
No matter what you get up to, Edinburgh is such a magical place to visit at this time of year — and bringing your dog along just makes it even more special. With a little planning (and the right cosy bits packed!), it’s the perfect festive day out for you and your four-legged friend.