Get into the Christmas Spirit in the South of Scotland

Wondering how to make the most of the season and get into the Christmas Spirit in the South of Scotland? As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to spread festive cheer. And there’s lots to discover across the Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway!

Whether you’re looking for atmospheric light displays, are looking to get crafty, or are craving cosy treats. Here is a selection of activities and experiences that will make the countdown to Christmas magical.

Christmas Lights

The South of Scotland comes alive with festive cheer as towns and villages light up for Christmas.

Over in Dumfries, the much-anticipated lights switch-on happens at Midsteeple. The event features rides and attractions in Queensberry Square, illuminated tractors along the High Street, and more. This year, the town introduces the “Lights of Hope”, a series of white lights around Dumfries and the Whitesands that will shine well into the new year, brightening the winter evenings.

Langholm celebrates its Christmas lights switch-on at The Buccleuch Centre. From there, Santa and Mrs Claus lead a joyful procession through the streets to the Market Place, where the lights are switched on. Visitors can enjoy street entertainers, a carousel for children, and performances from the Langholm Town Band, while cafes, restaurants, and street food stalls are open throughout the day, creating a vibrant community celebration.

In Kelso, the town marks the start of the festive season with the annual lights switch-on. Families can meet the furry alpacas from Beirhope and enjoy seasonal street performances. The beautifully decorated shop windows across the historic town also make Kelso the perfect place for a festive evening stroll. Why not combine it with a seasonal dinner at one of the many outstanding restaurants on the market square.

Across the South of Scotland, many more towns including Moffat and Selkirk also host Christmas light and lantern displays, as well as local markets. Make the most of the atmosphere with a stroll and pop into local shops for artisan gifts.

Christmas Shopping 

What better present than one made with love by local businesses and artisans! Whether you’re looking for something special for your nearest and dearest or the last few stocking fillers, check out what’s on offer in the South of Scotland.

If you’re after quality gifts from internationally renowned brands, make sure to pay a visit to Hawick. In addition to everything the town’s five textile mills have to offer, there is also the Borders Distillery with its luxurious Christmas hampers. Keep your eyes peeled on some of the world’s most prestigious cashmere and Tweed producers for offers in-store. Or head along to Johnstons of Elgin for a look behind the scenes with a mill tour before you decide on the perfect present.

Showing love for local businesses is the message in Galashiels. Here, the local community is coming together for a big Festive Gala. It’s a full day of free, family-friendly fun across the town, culminating in a magical torch parade and the Christmas tree switch-on. Shoppers will find lots of gift ideas and festive inspiration at the market and in local shops. There will be special offers and even a town trail with prizes!

An unmissable festive food and drink event awaits at Glenlair Steading. Christmas at Demijohn is an all-day event with mulled drinks, tasty mince pies and Christmas carols; and it is also the perfect opportunity for some gift shopping. The team at Demijohn have put together a selection of sustainable festive hampers and will be on hand to help select the perfect presents.

You can also be sure to find gifts that suit every taste at Caledonia Park. There will be special entertainment and late night openings every Wednesday from the end of November until Christmas, giving you plenty of time to work through your wish list. With a variety of events including Santa’s Parade and Santa Paws – yes, your four-legged friend also gets to meet Santa – it’s a must-visit destination this season.

Festive Days Out

Are you looking for an enchanting day out that will keep the whole family entertained? Look no further, the weeks before Christmas are the perfect opportunity for a family adventure in the South of Scotland.

Gretna Green joins in the Christmas cheer with a host of events. Head along to the sparkling Christmas Lights Switch-On. There will be live entertainment with a choir and piper, plus delicious seasonal treats. Kids visiting Santa’s Grotto to share their wishes will receive a special gift to take home. With Gretna Green’s extensive offering of fashion, homewares, quirky keepsakes and authentic Scottish products, it’s also the perfect chance to pick up gifts for loved ones.

Festive splendour has also taken over Paxton House for the return of their famous Christmas Cracker! The celebrations will see more than 50 stall holders selling a range of gifts. Inside the house two marvellously decorated trees, roaring fires and live music await. And don’t miss the festive treats in the cafe.

The annual Traquair Christmas Opening sees Scotland’s oldest inhabited house decorated for the season. The historic rooms are decked out with evergreens from the grounds, and visitors can browse craft stalls or join in with carol singing. Make sure to pre-book to meet Santa in his luxurious grotto, he is expecting a busy day.

At the historic home of novelist Sir Walter Scott, visitors can step back in time to the winter of 1823. The interiors of Abbotsford are dressed up for Christmas, while a special audio tour brings the season to life. And can the children spot all the Christmas characters around the house for a prize at the end of the tour? It promises to be an exciting day out for every member of the family.

At Drumlanrig Castle, the annual Christmas Market returns. Local traders offer a wide array of food, drinks, arts and crafts in the heated marquee on the oval lawn, there’s a Santa’s Grotto and even Breakfast with Santa. Meanwhile, the castle tearoom offers a festive menu as well as mulled wine. Outside, food trucks are cooking up a storm, and kids can toast marshmallows at the fire pit. The best part? Entry to the market also includes access to the gardens. Wander the winter landscapes, then finish off your visit with a stop by the garden team. They have handcrafted wreaths and decorations on offer. Not keen on walking too much? Hop on a magical carriage ride, drawn by magnificent Blackstone Clydesdales.

For more seasonal days out, check out our Events Calendar. 

Seasonal Treats

Christmas and food go together perfectly, there’s no doubt about it! So, why not head out to one of the amazing restaurants, cafés and artisan producers in the South of Scotland to enjoy festive specials. And if visiting your favourite locales isn’t on the table, some of them offer delivery services to bring the Christmas magic to you. 

You need to be quick to experience the Christmas Day Lunch at the award-winning Gordon Arms. With festive decorations, cosy rooms and a mouth-watering menu, the event is sure to book out. The historic coaching inn is located near St Mary’s Loch, promising frosty winter landscapes perfect for walking off an indulgent meal.

At Annandale Distillery, visitors can top off their tour and tasting with their ultimate Festive Afternoon Tea at The Maltings Coffeeshop. Expect locally sourced delights of the savoury and sweet variety. And why not upgrade the experience with an exclusive whisky flight?

The Christmas menu at the Allanton Inn features popular classics such as roast turkey as well as owner Katrina Reynold’s special homemade Christmas Pudding. As always, the award-winning inn brings a strong focus on local provenance to every dish on the menu. 

A range of sweet treats is available to enjoy and to order at Cocoa Black Chocolate Boutique in the heart of Peebles. Christmassy treats on offer include delicious Yule logs and chocolate snowmen, as well as themed patisserie. 

For Christmas-themed Afternoon Tea in a picturesque location, head to the Abbey Cottage Tearoom. Set right across from atmospheric Sweetheart Abbey, the tearoom has put together a delectable spread of homemade shortbread, mince pies and seasonal sandwiches. 

Winter Walks & Trails  

Snow dusted hillsides, the crunch of frozen grass underfoot, and our lochs and rivers sparkling in the winter sunshine. ‘Tis the season to wrap up warm and embrace the sights and sounds of the South of Scotland. Whether you’re looking to work up an appetite for the holidays or heading out for a post-Christmas lunch walk along the meandering Tweed, there’s plenty of options to choose from. 

Families will enjoy the path along the River Tweed to the Union Chain Bridge and Paxton House also makes for a great walk for little legs. Alternatively, head to Harestanes, where the park and kids play park remain open through the winter. Another easy walk for is along the edge of the marshes and the Martyr’s Stake in Wigtown and then onwards to the Bird Hide at the harbour to combine history and birdwatching all in one walk.

Those in favour of a longer outing might enjoy a ramble around Threave Garden and Estate or at Glenwhan Gardens. Or even the Galloway Forest Park, Britain’s largest forest park offers a mixture of forest and lochside walking trails to suit various fitness levels. 

Looking for even more breathtaking views? The trails of the Tweed Valley offer scenic lookout points galore. The Three Brethren near Selkirk, Neidpath Circuit in Peebles and the surrounding forest walks are fantastic options – just remember to dress for the weather!

Prefer to blow away the cobwebs along the coast? Keep your eyes open. You may spot grey seal pups along the Berwickshire Coastal Path. On the western coast of Dumfries & Galloway, the Mull of Galloway path offers stunning views on a clear day.

Wherever you decide to roam, always remember to respect, protect, enjoy: Keep a safe distance from animals and follow the Outdoor Access Code.

Cosy up at home

If you don’t want to venture out, you can still connect with the South of Scotland. Here is a virtual option for you: Get comfortable on the sofa and watch one of the many films and series using the South of Scotland as their backdrop.

For Christmas magic, opt for The Princess Switch – Switched Again or Romancing the Star on Netflix. The sequels of the popular Christmas film The Princess Switch sees Duchess Margaret (Vanessa Hudgens) unexpectedly inheriting the throne to Montenaro. She needs the support of friend and double Stacy (also played by Hudgens), and third lookalike Fiona (also Hudgens). The movie was filmed mainly at grand Manderston House near Duns. The ballroom, drawing room and morning room stand in for Margaret’s royal apartments. Additionally, the stunning marble hall, silver staircase and old kitchen make an appearance, covered in sparkling Christmas decorations. Look closely; you might even spot that Santa’s Magical Village is set in the extensive stables at Manderston. 

More recently, numerous locations in the region starred in Seasons 1 and 2 of The Buccaneers. Watch it on Apple TV+ for lavish balls, Victorian grandeur and plenty of drama. Or perhaps you would like to ensure you are fully up to speed with the Outlander series before its final season is released in 2026. Refresh your memory and watch Drumlanrig Castle feature as the Earl of Sandringham’s estate in Season 2.

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