We’ve got it all!

Edinburgh city centre really is unrivalled when it comes to Christmas shopping

Love it or hate it, there’s no getting away from shopping over the festive months.

Picking the perfect present for mum, or finding your little darlings’ must-have toy is easy to do in Edinburgh – especially thanks to the latest winter opening hours ever.

From 27 November, stores will be open until 7pm; then from 4 December trading hours extend even further to 8pm.

Finally, making sure you can get all of your last-minute goodies (and enjoy Edinburgh’s brilliant nightlife scene to boot), from 18 December all of your favourite city centre stores are open until 9pm.

We asked a couple of experts for their top tips on getting ahead with your Christmas shopping this year – and they both agreed that organisation is key.

“Get organised! Make yourself a list and do some research before you hit the High Street,” said Kirsty Knust, who looks after PR and Marketing for John Lewis.

“Go online to get some inspiration so it isn’t too overwhelming when you get into the shops.”

“It’s never too early to start: I’ve learnt never to be surprised by how soon people start Christmas shopping,” Kirsty added. “We opened our Christmas shop on 1 October and sold four Christmas trees on the first morning.”

Rochelle Burgess, general manager at St James Centre and Multrees Walk, agreed: “There are a lot of cautious customers making purchases throughout the year, to spread the cost. In fact, we have several customers who come to the January sales in preparation for next Christmas!

“Then there are the guys who leave it until Christmas Eve. So boys, if that’s you, we are open until 5pm this Christmas Eve and 9pm every night the week before.”

So what are you waiting for? The Edinburgh city centre experience is unmatched in the world and offers a unique and diverse mix of shops, cafés, restaurants and culture against a wonderful backdrop that you just won’t find anywhere else. There is so much for shoppers – and for families just looking for a magical day out.

This is our guide to making the most of all the capital has to offer this Christmas.