Whether you fancy dining under a canopy of baubles or being surrounded by festive garlands, here are some of the country’s most sparklingly festive venues

Lead image: Duck & Waffle

The Bothy, St Andrews

The Bothy is a quintessential Scottish bolthole, tucked away from the throng of the busy thoroughfares of St Andrews and nestled in a cosy corner of Church Square. The rustic Scottish restaurant in the heart of the town serves up farmed and foraged dishes. The interiors combine elements of rustic charm which sit comfortably alongside vibrant floral patterns and textiles in a cosy and compact restaurant & bar, complete with fairy lights galore for the festive season. Throughout December you can create your very own festive wreath to hang pride of place at your front door and guests will enjoy live music and an extensive list of whiskies, wines and winter toddies on offer, guaranteeing you’ll leave feeling merry and bright. 

The Ivy Glasgow

Duck & Waffle, Edinburgh

Step through the wardrobe to an enchanting Narnia-themed world at Duck & Waffle Edinburgh this Christmas. Inspired by the beloved classic The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, guests at the restaurant and bar located at St James Quarter will embark on an adventure reminiscent of Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter’s journey through the wardrobe into a mysterious winter realm. The transformation begins at the forth floor entrance, where guests are welcomed by the iconic wardrobe, snow-covered trees, and woodland creatures—an enchanting gateway into Narnia. Inside, the signature lamppost rises among snow-dusted trees, while frosted branches and garlands elegantly adorn the banquettes. Above, a dazzling balloon installation shimmers like a winter sky, wrapping visitors in the magic of the season. 

The Ivy, Glasgow 

A mix of festive interiors and limited-edition seasonal dishes make The Ivy in Glasgow a perfect choice for Christmas pics. From pine ornaments covered in decorations to candle settings and glittering fairy lights, there’s plenty to get snaps of here. Expect festive blooms, Alpine scenes, live music, fun, feasting, partying and the odd appearance from Santa Claus. So, whether it’s a family gathering, an annual tradition that can’t be missed, or just the perfect magical setting for festive fun with friends, The Ivy is pretty perfect for the festive season. For added indulgence? Choose a signature chocolate bombe for dessert.

Ubiquitous Chip

The Albyn, Aberdeen

The Albyn is located in the heart of Aberdeen’s west end. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a Christmas arch and wreath arrangement, and once inside, there is a towering tree adorned in more sparkling baubles than you can shake a stick at, as well as exquisite wreaths and fairy lights throughout the venue. The festive menu, running until Christmas Eve, features delicious dishes including winter minestrone soup, roast salmon with champagne butter sauce and mulled wine poached pear.

Gleneagles Townhouse, Edinburgh

Gleneagles Townhouse on St Andrew Square has been transformed into a luxurious playground inspired by Scotland’s folklore, with decor complete with mischievous broonies, ethereal fairies and woodland creatures. Dressed for the occasion, the venue’s restaurant The Spence showcases the best of Scotland’s larder, where guests can expect warming winter dishes that embrace the change in season and the very best produce. For a truly magical Christmas, carol singers will serenade guests from the grand staircase and live music will fill The Spence where fires are stoked, the smell of homemade mince pies fill the lobby and champagne will be chilling on ice – ready to toast Christmas and Hogmanay in style.

The Bothy

Ubiquitous Chip, Glasgow

It’s Chipmas! The Christmas menu at Ubiquitous Chip promises just as much eye candy as the restaurant itself – think Shetland cod, roast portobello mushroom or turkey with all the trimmings, alongside venison haggis and smoked sea trout to start. The variety of gorgeous spaces here spans everything from high-ceiling courtyard spaces packed with baubles, hanging lights and tropical plants to a mezzanine brasserie. The Chip continues to thrive as a local hub for hungry Glaswegians and whether it’s a pre-season catch up with friends, or a corporate night out to enjoy world-class Scottish dining, this is a truly unique setting.