What’s on in December

As the days shorten and the festive spirit fills the air, the South of Scotland transforms into a winter wonderland, offering an abundance of activities to enjoy in the cold, crisp air. Make the festive wreath to adorn your front door at one of our many workshops; take the kids to see Santa in magical locations and don’t miss the festive lightshow at one of the region’s historic gardens. Here are some of the highlights to ensure your winter getaway is unforgettable and do check out all the events this month too!

See Santa

No Christmas is complete without a visit to the big man himself! Across the South of Scotland this December there are plenty of opportunities for children to meet Santa and share their festive wishes. How about Breakfast with Santa at Abbotsford House or at the Annandale Distillery? Or tie in a visit with some Christmas shopping at Caledonia Park? Step back in time with Santa at Gilnockie Tower for an atmospheric visit. In Wigtown, Santa’s grotto is open all month with daily activities for children, while the elves and the big man himself will be on hand each weekend to tell you if you are on the naughty or nice list! It is best to pre-book for these events to avoid disappointment.

Winter lights

The enchanting light trail at Monteviot House and Gardens in the Scottish Borders returns for a second year. This year it promises to embrace the magic of the season with a captivating Christmas theme, transforming Monteviot House and Gardens into a festive wonderland. Starting at Harestanes Visitor Centre, the 1.8km route takes visitors through beautifully lit gardens and woods, immersing them in the warmth, magic, and wonder of the festive season. Food and drinks will be on offer from kiosks in the food village on site.

Wreath making workshops

Start the month and get into the spirit of the festive season by making your very own wreath. There are workshops across the whole of the South of Scotland offering some professional coaching and authentic materials. At Drumlanrig, near Thornhill, head gardener Robbie is leading the charge starting with a forage for materials, then a lesson on structure and finishing with a hot soup and roll for lunch as you admire your finished creation. The atmospheric Victorian kitchen at Bowhill House is hosting multiple sessions mornings and evenings with hot drinks and sweet festive treats to keep you going. At the Gordon Arms Restaurant, you can be led through the workshop by gardener of the Glen House Estate, Gillian Bowie, before sampling a three-course lunch. At Floors Castle, renowned florist and stylist, Caroline Millar, will guide you using traditional methods, using seasonal foliage grown in the gardens and on the estate. At Abbotsford you will learn to weave a wreath base using willow, before adding moss, fresh foliage, natural decorations and ribbon of your choice. And at Gilnockie Tower the wreath making session comes with treats and beverages and a special tour of the tower!

Seasonal fun on ice

Head to Wigtown for its Wonderland weekend with synthetic ice and skate hire, warming seasonal foods, and late night shopping at many of its independent bookstores. The Dumfries Ice Bowl has regular sessions for public skating as well as sessions reserved for very young children and those with disabilities. The curling club offers a beginner lesson if you fancy trying something different this winter. And for a super spectacle, the Ice Bowl is hosting the International Synchronised Skating Trophy d’Ecosse on the 6th and 7th of December.

Celebrate festive flavours

Indulge your tastebuds this Christmas and sample some of the region’s food and drink at a variety of special events. There is afternoon tea and a Christmas market at GG’s Yard. Head to Demijohn‘s Glenlair Steading for its new festive food and drink event with mulled drinks, mince pies and Christmas Carols – you can get some early shopping done too! Celebrate the flavours of the season – and sample some fine whisky – at the Annandale Distillery. A distillery tour and whisky tasting will be followed by a three-course festive meal, what better way to get into the Christmas spirit? And if chocolates and cocktails sound like your perfect pairing, get yourself to the Globe Inn for an unforgettable afternoon. The Globe will also be hosting a gala Hogmanay evening with a seven-course degustation menu! Or you can see in the New Year at the Murray Arms, with a luxurious 5-course dinner, accompanied by the lively sounds of The Relatives.

Musical escapes

Throughout December there is a variety of music on offer across the South of Scotland. The Vault Arts Centre in Newton Stewart is hosting a range of musicians from The Bookshop Band performing their latest studio album produced by the legendary Pete Townshend to Christmas Party nights featuring Frankly the Smiths, Ben Monteith or Astoria. Meanwhile at Easterbrook Hall, Glasgow-based folk pop quartet Tide Lines will be performing as part of their Homeward Bound Tour.