14 reasons why we cannot wait for winter in Edinburgh

With the fun of the Edinburgh Festival and the long summer days behind us, it's very easy to get a bit depressed and start sadly thinking about the cold, dark winter ahead. No more unique shows to go to, no more walks up Arthur's Seat to watch the sun setting just before 11 o'clock, no more laying in the sunshine on the Meadows... only rain, wind, cold and darkness. Doesn't sound great, does it? 

Fear not: our lovely city has plenty on offer to counter the blues. Here are 14 reasons why you should be excited about spending winter in Edinburgh. 

1. Cups of hot mulled wine, bratwursts and tons of Nutella pancakes in the magic atmosphere of the European Christmas Market.

2. Ice skating by the Scott Monument. 

3. Admiring the magnificent Christmas decorations at the Dome. 

4. Warm cups of tea and slices of yummy homemade cake in the cosy comfort of Lovecrumbs.

5. Scottish Ballet performing the European premiere of 'Cinderella' at the King's Theatre. 

6. Seeing innovative and inspiring cinema from across the globe at the Edinburgh Short Film Festival. 

7. Celebrating Bonfire Night with the stunning fireworks display at Hopetoun House.

8. Wandering around the Scottish Market in St Andrew Square.

9. Ringing in the new year at the Hogmanay Street Party - there's no better place to be on New Year's Eve.

10. Views like this one.

11. And this one.  

12. Popping into Jenners to check out their giant Christmas tree.

13. Starting the Christmas festivities with Light Night.

14. Did we mention Christmas lunches and dinners at the Zoo?

Ready for winter? See Time Out's guide to Edinburgh's Hogmanay.