5 of the best Edinburgh Christmas party venues

The Grand Gallery at the National Museum of Scotland offers a truly impressive setting for a Christmas party to end all Christmas parties. Located within walking distance of Waverley Station in the heart of Old Town, if you're looking for a venue for a Christmas gala, it's the National Museum of Scotland's Grand Gallery that you want.

The venue features a soaring glass atrium, grand pillars, and a striking Victorian design, creating a dramatic and elegant atmosphere. This goes without saying but it accommodates large-scale events, dinners to receptions, with space for up to 1,500 guests. Private hire options include exclusive use of the gallery, and catering services are available for festive dining and drinks receptions.

Located in a world-renowned tapestry studio and a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft, and design, Dovecot Studios’ Weaving Floor offers a unique setting for Christmas celebrations. It boasts history, Victorian architecture, and it's open space overlooked by the viewing balcony is ideal for galas, parties, receptions, and dinners.

The venue combines Victorian heritage with contemporary design, having once been the Infirmary Street Baths, the most striking features are the high ceilings and the viewing balcony. The space can host up to 250 guests and is available for private hire, with catering options ranging from formal dining to relaxed buffet-style gatherings.

Dovecot Studios is centrally located, with good transport links via South Bridge and Waverley Station.

Dynamic Earth, the UK’s leading environmental science engagement charity, offers the Stratosphere event space. A distinctive setting for a Christmas party, the Stratosphere is a modern space with a backdrop of interactive exhibits and immersive experiences. It is located close to Holyrood with regular transport links to Edinburgh Waverley.

The Stratosphere has a sleek, contemporary design with a translucent roof and glass walls, creating a dramatic setting for a Christmas gala. The Stratosphere can accommodate events with up to 800 guests with a minimum of 200 for a dinner. Private hire packages include themed festive décor, catering, and entertainment options.

Located within the historic Scotsman Hotel overlooking Edinburgh Waverley, the Grand Café offers a traditional and sophisticated venue for a Christmas celebration. Its central location, traditional classy interiors, and Christmas dinner make it a classic choice for a festive party.

With Art Deco-inspired interiors, elegant chandeliers, ornate stone and woodwork, and plush seating, the venue is refined yet welcoming in atmosphere. It caters to both small and medium-sized parties, with private hire options available for the exclusive use of the space with a capacity of 100 guests.

Located just opposite Waverley Station, tucked beneath Brewhemia, the Bothy provides a cosy and festive setting for Christmas parties, with the requisite twinkling lights and decorative wreaths bringing a little magic to Brewhemia’s sleek, modern design.

The Bothy has a rustic, alpine-inspired aesthetic, featuring wooden interiors, soft lighting, and a warm, intimate vibe. The venue can accommodate private gatherings with a capacity of 40 seated guests or 100 standing and offers tailored festive menus and drinks packages.