Have a holly jolly Christmas at the Edinburgh Botanics

IT might be a tad chilly outside, but it’s worth wrapping up warm for a wonderful Christmas light show in Edinburgh.

Christmas at the Botanics is a series of stunning light installations along a one-mile trail at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

The festive family experience runs until Saturday 30^th December, giving visitors the chance to see the garden after dark and all aglow.

This year’s varied display includes the Choir of Trees, nine ‘singing’ conifers each with a different voice.

While sipping a spiced cider, mulled wine or tasty hot chocolate, guests can walk through the impressive Scented Fire Garden and see the sparkling Crystal Lawn.

A real seasonal spectacle, a whopping 1,000 illuminated spheres make up Bloom on Inverleith House Lawn.

There’s also a chance to share a Christmas kiss and snap a selfie with your other half under the Mistletoe Moment.

And of course, a Christmas event wouldn’t be complete without a visit from Santa himself, who’ll be performing a short vignette with a little help from his elves.

In pics: Giant lanterns light up the night at Edinburgh Zoo

Simon Milne, Regius Keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, said: “The incredible display of lighting installations at Christmas at the Botanics provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience the Garden like never before.

“Also, by buying a ticket visitors are helping to support our plant science and conservation work.”

Christmas at the Botanics, Edinburgh (Wullie Marr Photography)

Simon Milne continued: “At this time of year, when we are all thinking about Christmas trees, holly wreaths and so many other delights from the plant kingdom, there is a wonderful synergy with the light trail and the work we do.”