WIN: Experience the true magic of Christmas at Dalkeith Country Park
As far as winter days out go, they don't come more idyllic than a visit to Dalkeith Country Park. Just a stone's throw from Edinburgh, it makes for the perfect family day out at any time of year, but none more so than at Christmastime.
Crisp winter walks on the sprawling historic estate will delight all ages and little ones will love the adventure of the mighty Fort Douglas, where they can channel their inner knights and pirates. As for grown-ups who on the hunt for treasure of their own, they're sure to find it in the Restoration Yard; a beautiful, renovated stable building and, within it, a trove of sparkling finds is just waiting to be discovered.
Elevating the typical Christmas shopping experience, the store has everything you need to complete your list in one simple visit. Think gorgeous clothes for him and her and equally covetable accessories, as well as artisan soaps, and sumptuous bath soaks for that all-important self-care. Its collection of handmade ceramics, mood-setting candles, and chic homeware will add a dose of luxury to any home. And for the children, you'll find puzzles, toys, books, and games galore! Needless to say, you're guaranteed to find something to treat others (or perhaps yourself!) to amongst its Instagram-worthy displays and expertly-curated rails.
Before you head for the cash desk, you'll want to make a pitstop at Restoration Yard's impressive, well-stocked larder, where you'll find shelves upon shelves laden and tables full to the brim with festive foodie delights. From biscuits and fine cheeses, sweet treats and savoury snacks, curating a Christmas feast has never been so easy—or tasty for that matter.
Now that you and the kids have worked up an appetite, now's the perfect time to visit the chic, open-plan restaurant, The Kitchen, for some delicious homemade sustenance, prepared with the finest locally sourced-ingredients. On the menu is everything you could want and more. There's warming soups, hearty sandwiches, and picture-perfect brunch dishes, topped with an array of gastronomic mains, the cuisine found in The Kitchen at Restoration Yard is sure to satisfy even the fussiest of eaters.
It would also be remiss not to mention Dalkeith Country Park's breathtaking festive light experience; The Spectacle of Light. Now in its second year, the illuminated trail will take you across the winding river with its pixie lanterns and starbursts reflected in the water. Gaze at the carpet of colour and marvel at the beauty of the Orangerie from the incredible viewing platforms in Fort Douglas, all as you sip mulled wine or hot chocolate topped with fluffy marshmallows, to truly immerse yourself in the magical Christmas spirit. Slots for the experience are known to sell-out, fast, which makes what we're about to tell you even more exciting. We've partnered with our friends at Dalkeith Country Park to give away a Family Ticket (two adults and two children) to The Spectacle of Light, worth £46, plus hot drinks and marshmallow toasting vouchers. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, head to our Instagram for all the details. Good luck!