I honestly used to love Christmas because it was my wife's favorite day of the year but unfortunately she passed away on Christmas day last year at the age of 40 so I am really struggling with the build up to Christmas this year as it's very emotional and I will be on my own as well on Christmas day so it's going to be very hard but I hope u all have a lovely Christmas and u all stay safe and take care much love from Aberdeen
I really send you all my best wishes, I can't even imagine mate. I want to say stay strong, but also nothing wrong with being completely weak. My thoughts are with you.
Morning Steve you are so right about the markets standing shoulder to shoulder to purchase a dollar store item but you end with the actual highlights of the city beautiful love to visit one day Thanks again love simple holiday magic😘
Hi Steve. Great video again. As you know I was born and brought up in Auld Reekie but live in darkest Dorking, Surrey now. This made me real homesick. But great changes since my days. Back in the 60s etc the only decoration was the Christmas tree on the mound. Back around 1976 the very staid and conservative City Council would not even have festive lights in Princes Street. Said it lowered the tone of such an elegant and iconic street. Seriously. Such major changes now. 🙋♂️👏👏👏 (🏴) !
Another enjoyable video that captures the magic of Edinburgh in December. The piano playing at end was a very nice touch. You make more people happy than you realize. Thanks Steve.
Thank you so much for taking us to Edinburgh. I love that city. I'd love to see you come back when it isn't Christmas time so that we can enjoy seeing the city as it usually is. Since I can't travel anymore, I am so glad that you make these videos so that I can enjoy some of Scotland once again. Happy Christmas!
My initial reaction was, 'Oh no, not another Christmas market video', and I was going to skip it. But I should have known you better. I did watch after all and it was so much more than 'just another'. You nailed it again, and repeating the big wheel ride after dark was inspired.
I'm a fellow Edinburgh Ebenezer!! Love Christmas, don't love the tackiness. Yes to Stockbridge and Castle Street Market....and the amazing local makers we have here all year round.
As a former Edinburger who grew up in Colinton and later bought a bungalow there, one of the 'villages' like Stockbridge where I and girlfriend later wife also lived in Raeburn Street, tucked away off Raeburn Place. The Christmas market holds many memories as it was an annual event with my daughter as she was growing up, despite the crowds we always enjoyed the food, as I lived/worked in Germany many moons ago. Edinburgh is my home town despite now living in the Cotswolds and seeing Auld Reekie again at this time of year brought a nostalgic tear to my eye ! On a more gruesome note the previous spiked railings around the Scott Monument near the big wheel had to be replaced as it was a suicide jump and folk got speared ! As one who's not a fan of the now heavily manufactured Christmas, thanks Steve for the memories and seasons greetings to you and A !!❄️🍷😂
Great little video Steve. It is a pity is just so commercial. Pity you couldn't wait for the snow this week to make it more festive. Love the wheel and the big bear! The cost is a bit high but I suppose its for the tourists. I believe the German Market gets really crammed at night but having been to real ones in Germany it's just not the same. Edinburghs architecture still beats most places though! Allan.
Another great video Steve. I don't know how you manage to film, present and edit such brilliant videos but every time I see a TH-cam notification of a new video, I'm absolutely delighted.
Edinburgh just oozes history. Who said, correctly, that it is pure theatre? Lovely video, Steve, and the capture of the wee Ford Anglia with the very large Christmas Tree on its roof was great too.
I’ve had my hot chocolate already Steve, I have little energy just now as my blood count has crashed, so joy of joys a hospital visit is imminent! I always enjoy a stroll round Edinburgh with you, had to smile at the gardener leaf blowing, five minutes later the leaves are back again! I agree with your comments about Christmas markets, and I admired the true Scotsman wearing the kilt! but the highlight for me was the look on your face when you realised you hadn’t reached the top of the Ferris wheel, it looked a lot safer than when I last went on one some sixty years ago 😅 thanks again for an enjoyable wander round the Christmas festivities 🥳 happy holiday to you and Alicja, not too much Sassenach whisky mind you, Slainte mhath! 🥃
And to you too Bernice :) Alicja will be back in a couple of videos before Christmas with her wee smiles and dances! All the best with the hospital visit
@@steve-marsh thank you 🙏 Steve, will know more this coming Tue. looking forward to your pre-Christmas videos to cheer me up! Philip has sent you a wee donation on my behalf, 🤗
Totally agree with everything you say. Haven't been to Edinburgh for years. It's the same with winter wonderland in London, put on to make money and fleece everyone. Hope all is well and you are having a great weekend. Take care
Thanks for showing us around Edinburgh and the market and all the decorations round the houses and it is very busy and and it is nice to see the building and the castle and hope you have some hot chocolate drink and it looks nice in the evening with the Christmas lights round merry Christmas to you both
Edinburgh has a special place in my heart, n Christmas is my thing. So this vid is a combo treat 👍👍. I'm always curious if the Water of Leith walkthrough has itself Christmas lights along the way n opened in the evening. That'd b awesome. I saw your vid when u n Alicja attempts to spend the night under the small bridge somewhere in the middle of the wood. would u do it again? 😂
Thanks for this one Steve - you're so right about Christmas market tat BUT the whole video brought a big smile to my face as I'll be back home (in Edinburgh) in less than two weeks now :) Great nighttime scenes at the end, and as for Oh Come All Ye Faithful as an outro soundtrack.... great choice 😊
Your not being harsh at all. Went last night for the first time and fully agree with you. It’s just commercialised, over expensive tat. Best thing about Edinburgh this year to be honest is the way the castle is lit up!
Brilliant Steve, Have to say Edinburgh at night was beautiful, but agree with you about the Christmas market,it could be really special with a little effort.
That was a very nice walk around Edinburgh Steve thank you xx you were very brave taking a ride on that big wheel I couldnt I like both my feet on the ground xx 😁
Great video Steve. Yes unfortunately all those markets are about the same, but I love the way you captured the lights and sounds of that beautiful city. Loved the Ford Anglia with the tree strapped to the roof at elf he end! Keep up the good work…
Thanks for braving the crowds to record the video. What I like to do in Edinburgh, London or any of the cities I visit is to ride a city bus to the end of the line. That way I get to see the city outside of the center and it doesn't cost very much.
Well Ebenezer, I agree that they could be better done probably everywhere. Christmas is becoming so commercialized that I think that sometimec the true reason of it is forgotten. And with the content of this I was assuming we were going to keep both feet on the ground this time. Silly me! I should have known that you would find some way to get us in the air. Say hi to Alicja for me. Be well, stay safe, merriest of Christmases, love from Texas.
Loved seeing Edinburgh at christmas and the day and night montage. Very pretty and loved the view from the wheel.Nerves of steel there😬as a sufferer of heights . Thanks again for a great video.
Edinburghs a firm favourite place to visit. I always just find there’s a certain buzz about the place. Calton Hill’s a great place, and I find it really nice to hear a variety of different accents from people across the world all enjoying themselves here.
I am not much for crowds and the commercial nonsense, but it is wonderful to see the activity from a distance. The city is so vibrant all decked out in lights and activity. A December visit is now on my list! Thank you so much for this snapshot of Edinburgh during the festive season, and thank you for the ride on the wheel as well - the views even on a cloudy day are amazing. I really enjoyed this video!
Really enjoyed it steve, a nice walk around Edinburgh. Scrooge never, gifts for alicja, a bag of seaweed, 2,000 steps and a open top view from the Stirling monument during sleet, you’re all heart, can’t wait for alicja treat in January, merry Xmas to you both. Christmas shopping starts on Xmas eve
Great video Steve - I’m in Edinburgh at the moment visiting family. I’m not a fan of the markets either but did have a very quick look yesterday before it got too busy or too cold ! Had planned to visit the botanics instead this morning, but gardens were closed due to the snow but had to settle for quick walk and snowball fight in inverleith park ! Followed this evening by a great performance by the Scottish ballet at the festival theatre. I may try and pop into the portrait gallery sometime ….Christmas decorations there were amazing last year .. and a bit warmer and less crowded than the markets !
I keep saying to my family in Scotland that we'd love to experience a winter Christmas one day, but as I watched this in 23 degree sunshine I'm thinking "nah, you're all right thanks" 🤣🤣 You're right about the side streets and suburbs being better for shopping, I'm not into crowds either and the Edinburgh festival was challenging for us. Thanks for braving the ferris wheel and filming the lights at night. The local kids here have to stay up late to see the Christmas lights, as it's not dark till after 10pm at the moment. Lovely video, Steve 😊
Thanks for the walk though a welcomed December Edinburgh. Nice decorations, market's, activities. I'm sure the kids are really impressed! Hope the hard working local merchants were able to get some tourist dollars into their local businesses. Could be their biggest month of the year with all the online shopping that is done. The narration is helpful for us to become more familiar with your neighborhood. Hello to everyone!
Yeah, I kinda feel for the traders who are there all year, but then get ignored by the incoming garden sheds full of tat! It's still a wonderful city though, and a pleasure to show you around :)
Hi Steve, thankyou so much for making this vlog. I spent many a happy childhood holiday's in Edinburgh/Rose street in the 60's/70's as my mother was Scottish and her family lived in the flats at Rose street. I don't think the flats are still there now? An excellent and heart warming vlog as usual. Cheers Steve and Merry Xmas and all the best to you and Alicja. 😁
Lovely video Steve! I make my first visit to Edinburgh at the end of January and though the Christmas stuff will be over, this is getting me excited to be there! And I have to agree on the cheesy wares on sale at those markets. It would be nicer if it was unique local gifts!
Very much agree with ya about the generic merchandise It's often the same stuff you'd see at a market in London or anywhere else, and at most any time of year not the least bit Christmas related. Edinburgh is fantastic around the holidays, though - it's as if the city were purpose-built to provide a classic Dickensian Christmas aesthetic! Thanks for another fantastic video!
That looks like a great time to visit the city! It's so beautiful with all of the small Christmas lights all around. I agree about huge crowds, but it sounds like if you time it right you can make the best of all the places you want to see. I prefer off-season everyone I go. There is something magical and cozy about seeing it during the holiday season. With the right clothes to keep you dry, warm and comfortable, I think it would be perfect. It's going on the bucket list for sure! Thanks so much for the tour Steve.
Wish I was there. It is great to see the people back after going through such a horrific time the last couple of years. Cheers to all of you and thank you Steve for showing us around. Merry Christmas.
Really enjoyed this, I've always been curious about the Christmas Market. Hope to make it there one day. I've got to say, the haggis baked potato & Irn Bru while taking cover from the rain sounds excellent. I'm also loving the "Steve's Notes" section, it's very helpful & informative.
Its a good job Scotland is energy rich with all the extra lighting used at this time of year. How about next year having a wander around Katowice with Alicja for a comparison of Christmas celebrations Steve, I've spent a few in Wroclaw and they were great..!!
Thanks for taking one for the team, and going up in the wheel. I enjoyed the great view of The Scottish National Gallery. I fondly remember my visit there, and still have the poster I bought there, framed and on my living room wall. I couldn’t find it myself, but could you see the “Golden Turd” from up there? 😆 You didn’t happen to go through Candlemaker Row or Grassmarket, did you? I wonder if they are decorated up for Christmas as well. Glad you managed to have an okay time whilst taking us along. Cheers and ATB
Nico one. I'll be back in Edinburgh at the weekend for a few days visiting mum and ofcourse the city centre. Think I'll walk up through Stockie, used to go to school and work there as well. I had. View of the water of Leith from my office looking forward to it already 👍🏴
Love to see more cool/hidden Edinburgh content vlogs. Celebrate the local vendors and stuff the locals do. Thanks for the post, Steve. Merry Christmas mate.
Hi Steve...I loved the view from the top of the wheel 😀! Thanks for being brave enough 😊. Even though there were a few garish sights ( like found all over the world), it's still lovely to see Christmas in another city. Great choice of music at the end, too👍
Brilliant video Steve, and good to see my home toon. Edinburgh is such a magical city and a fantastic destination for visitors to come to. All the best
A snooker fan too! Steve, your channel just keeps getting better! Btw.. can you come and do a video in my beautiful island of sark? Cheers, Steve. Keep up the brill work
Great minds, Steve! We have very similar views about the Christmas Markets. Nice views from the wheel - the queue was too long to get on that for my vlog! 😀
The magic of Christmas is in the small miracles. ❤ Thank you for a look around the side streets as well as the glitz. Hope to visit Scotland one day. 😊
We stayed right on the Royal Mile 2-3 weeks after you filmed this. We stayed over Christmas and walked most of the places you did. We had such an amazing time.
Great video, Steve. Thank you for enduring the kitch, Christmas tat, festive musak, and horrendously dangerous heights for us all......so that we don't have to 🤣 From our family to your's; have a great Christmas, and a prosperous New Year. Looking forward to your 2023 vlogs.
Nice to see. Loved the pretty evening lights. They certainly know how to put on 'a show' in Edinburgh. Was there for Hogmanay one year (not in the gardens, but viewing from my cousin's daughter's flat). Wonderful City 🥰
Hi Steve love the beautiful views don't like the commercial bling markets, it really spoils the Christmas market. I have to agree that a market with traditional Scottish products would be far more appealing for visitors. I also see as the year progresses you become more brave lol. As always great video.
Very enjoyable.It's 4 years since I was last at Edinburgh's Edinburgh's Christmas market,and it certainly seems to have shrunk. I've not been to Gdansk's CM this year yet. Probably the same old same old too!
For an Edinburgh Christmas day trip, take the bus up through Morningside & Dreghorn to Colinton village. It’s got some lovely walks, pretty old buildings and a nice pub. Gorgeous when disted with frost, wreaths on the doors and can smell the fires going
Morning mate. Another awesome video. I totally understand what you're saying about them being very generic. Down here in Manchester in previous years people have complained about the lack of local produce and the samey stalls and lack of street food vendors., so the council listened and made it more diverse. Guess what?. People have complained a LOT. This year people are furious that it's not how it was and it's not Christmassy. I guess that whatever people do, you'll always, in this day, have conflicts between the traditionalists and the ones who want a different, more modern Christmas market experience. They seem to be really divisive and prove the old saying that you can please some of the people some of the time.....
Ha yeah, that's exactly how it goes eh! :D Maybe I'm in the minority as the crowds sure do pack the place out every year, easy money I guess without too much thought required to do something unique.
Honestly, I don't mind the more generic stalls, and like some continuity (if only to see some folks again after a while, e.g. there's a quiche stand in the Brussels market who used to be in my weekly neighbourhood market I hadn't seen in ages), so yes to change, but gradually, please. And to be fair, most people are more looking for a cheap souvenir, how many people would really be interested in buying a hand-knitted jumper from Shetland for £200 or (much) more, especially when you can get a Santa hat with lights for maybe a fiver or a tenner?
@@barvdw trouble is most of it is cheap tat made in China that will be in landfill before 6 mths is up. We don't need that. Good craft markets still have cheaper options it's not all £200 jumpers (more like £60 to be fair) but stalls are so expensive its only the guys selling all the cheap tat that can afford to have one!
@@vivellasmum that's true as well, especially the part where most cheap stuff ends up as garbage sooner rather than later. But to be honest, I'm not sure I'd trust buying more expensive items on a market without having a known vendor to turn to to complain. That's why I generally don't buy leather products, for instance (it really takes a specialist's eye to see lower quality leathers, and sometimes even they can be bamboozled), and definitely no electronics. Or jewellery claiming to be real silver or gold. But I have bought woodcraft, like this wind chime on the local 'Fêtes Médiévales', or some nougat (surprisingly expensive stuff).
Nice!! Enjoyed the night time view of the town and the music. Excellent. It is fun to just wander around. There are great views from the top of the National Museum also. Thanks Steve and Merry Christmas.
No one does Christmas like Edinburgh! Stunning video Steve, thank you for taking the time to film this, it has inspired me to toot through for a Christmas visit x
As an Edin resident I agree 100% re the market but loads of folk love it including my grandsons. Film was great but veggie haggis really that’s bad. Have a great Christmas and best wishes to Alicia
Haha I tend to agree, but that haggis was amazing! Yeah, I am so happy people enjoy it (especially the youngsters), just not for me. Have a great Christmas too! :)
That was a good wee trip round some my favourite places. The Baked Potato shop on Cockburn Street is one of my first stops when I'm lucky enough to visit Edinburgh then round to Hunters Square to eat it and give the pigeons a treat ☺️. Thank you Stevie, as ever..brilliant video!
My father bought a new Ford Anglia in 1961 in Houston Texas. He loved that car. Nice to see that some are still running. I was in Edinburgh for a day a few years ago on a day trip from York. I had a rotten cold and didn’t get to enjoy my visit. Your videos inspire me to return and spend more time than a day in Edinburgh. It looks like a fabulous city. Merry Christmas from Wyoming USA.😎👍
Thanks for sharing Bill, this one is (just about!) still running :D Ach, I really hope you get the chance to return, a cold can spoil the trip for sure, but Edinburgh never changes and is waiting ready for your return!
What a beautiful video. I really enjoy them, especially those with Alicia on the longer walks during warmer days. I live in the Caribbean and have visited Edinburgh and other Scottish cities so these just bring back memories.Thank you and Merry Christmas both of you.
...that was lovely to watch, Steve, and peppered like always with some of your dry humour, and a wee rant (which I completely agree with!)... but even so, with a lot of sterile, repeat business and overcrowded-ness - you, I and a lot of other followers can't help loving that town... Edinburgh has a heart-felt warmth and charm... I very much enjoyed the wee walks with you in this early December... thanks shall you have, as always! xx
I don't think I've tried that brand of shortbread, though I would give it a try. I manage to get Walkers Shortbread at the local stores around Massachusetts.
We are kindred spirits in the grumpy old men club when it comes to the plasticity and commercialization of Christmas, not even the end of October this year and my local supermarkets had started to churn out the fake Christmas. I tend to get well away from all the crowds and just enjoy the season in solitude with a few wee drams and a good book, until the next video I wish you and Alicja a very merry Christmas and a happy safe and healthy new year,take care and cheers.
I too am a scrooge when it comes to Christmas. I'm retired now in the US. where I've lived for many, many years. I worked in the retail trade for a large corporation, this one store would pull in a ton of money between the end of November and Christmas. Extremely busy. Wall to wall people every day. Dealing with the public can be a challenge at times. Still though, it would be nice to visit Scotland once again, especially at Christmas.
Edinburgh isa special place to be any season .Christmas time adds something to it .Great video as usual .Thanks Steve I am a long time subscriber .By the way merry Christmas 😀
I climbed the Scott Monument in 1973. I watched your video of the "steps of Edinburgh" and was hopeful that you had done that during that escapade. Nice to see it all these years later.
Very similar feelings about the 'official' xmas market, last went about 5 years ago when family were visiting town otherwise there are may better (less busy) places in the city. It has been scaled back a bit since the organisers changed this year which I think it a better move for preserving the gardens for the rest of the year.
Indeed, previous organisers destroyed the grass in the bottom part of the Gardens and ruined it for the whole year - good to see that this year they've scaled it back to preserve it for the rest of year.
@@drsteele sadly it was only scaled back as the company booked to run the markets this year, pulled out at the last minute with 6 weeks notice, which left the council scrambling to find and alternative. That alternative meant it couldn't return on the same scale as previous years. Needless to say next year it will be back with a bang! Sadly a bang to the gardens which will once again take the brunt of it
We went before COVID to Budapest to see their Christmas Markets. They were the same, but the bonus was all the other city sights. Recommend, if you can Steve, a visit there, maybe after Xmas.
Oh great shout! I still have some currency from there (we'd booked to go for the day, but hadn't realised at the time their COVID restrictions meant we couldn't go). So we really need to rectify that!
Hi Steve, yeah typical Xmas market there's never anything different in them, you can pick most of it up in the shops any time of the year.hope you have a great Xmas
Steve, one of my very favourite places to go (which I try and make time for whenever I’m in Edinburgh), is the Susannah Stephen Memorial in Jame’s Court, Lawnmarket. It’s such a peaceful spot, away from the crowds. She loved travel (as we both do) and the words on the plinth I just think are really beautiful - ‘keep your face towards the sun & the shadows will fall behind you’. Magical.
Thank you Steve for showing us Edinburgh at Christmas-time. The fabricated Christmasmarket you showed us @5:10 looks very similar to the German Weihnachtsmarkte I've seen in Oldenburg and Bremen. Greetings from the Netherlands and keep up the good work.
I think to be honest they are replicated worldwide now...certainly across the whole of Europe, something that Germany does is extremely well is Christmas :)
I honestly used to love Christmas because it was my wife's favorite day of the year but unfortunately she passed away on Christmas day last year at the age of 40 so I am really struggling with the build up to Christmas this year as it's very emotional and I will be on my own as well on Christmas day so it's going to be very hard but I hope u all have a lovely Christmas and u all stay safe and take care much love from Aberdeen
I really send you all my best wishes, I can't even imagine mate. I want to say stay strong, but also nothing wrong with being completely weak. My thoughts are with you.
Morning Steve you are so right about the markets standing shoulder to shoulder to purchase a dollar store item but you end with the actual highlights of the city beautiful love to visit one day Thanks again love simple holiday magic😘
Cheers Linda! Yeah, it looks magical after dark :)
Hi Steve. Great video again. As you know I was born and brought up in Auld Reekie but live in darkest Dorking, Surrey now. This made me real homesick. But great changes since my days. Back in the 60s etc the only decoration was the Christmas tree on the mound. Back around 1976 the very staid and conservative City Council would not even have festive lights in Princes Street. Said it lowered the tone of such an elegant and iconic street. Seriously.
Such major changes now.
🙋♂️👏👏👏 (🏴) !
Haha aye unrecognisable these days! I realise it's very popular though, but just not for me :) Aw the best mate!
As lad from Glasgow I have to admit Edinburgh is a beautiful city 👍 thanks Steve brilliant video
Cheers James! It is very nice on the eye, but Glasgow is stunning too!
Another enjoyable video that captures the magic of Edinburgh in December. The piano playing at end was a very nice touch. You make more people happy than you realize. Thanks Steve.
Thank you so much for taking us to Edinburgh. I love that city. I'd love to see you come back when it isn't Christmas time so that we can enjoy seeing the city as it usually is. Since I can't travel anymore, I am so glad that you make these videos so that I can enjoy some of Scotland once again. Happy Christmas!
I cant travel much now and as you say its really great to have a walk round Edinburgh with Steve. Have a great Christmas.
Thanks so much, and happy Christmas to you all :)
My initial reaction was, 'Oh no, not another Christmas market video', and I was going to skip it. But I should have known you better. I did watch after all and it was so much more than 'just another'. You nailed it again, and repeating the big wheel ride after dark was inspired.
Hey cheers for that Barry mate!
I'm a fellow Edinburgh Ebenezer!! Love Christmas, don't love the tackiness. Yes to Stockbridge and Castle Street Market....and the amazing local makers we have here all year round.
Glad there's a few of us floating around David :)
I'm so happy to have discovered your channel :) I'm looking forward to my first travel to Scotland next year. Greetings from Munich
Hey thanks so much! Really appreciate your support :)
As a former Edinburger who grew up in Colinton and later bought a bungalow there, one of the 'villages' like Stockbridge where I and girlfriend later wife also lived in Raeburn Street, tucked away off Raeburn Place.
The Christmas market holds many memories as it was an annual event with my daughter as she was growing up, despite the crowds we always enjoyed the food, as I lived/worked in Germany many moons ago.
Edinburgh is my home town despite now living in the Cotswolds and seeing Auld Reekie again at this time of year brought a nostalgic tear to my eye !
On a more gruesome note the previous spiked railings around the Scott Monument near the big wheel had to be replaced as it was a suicide jump and folk got speared !
As one who's not a fan of the now heavily manufactured Christmas, thanks Steve for the memories and seasons greetings to you and A !!❄️🍷😂
So glad to share it with you Richard! Oof didn't know about the spikes though - imagine witnessing that! :O
Great little video Steve. It is a pity is just so commercial. Pity you couldn't wait for the snow this week to make it more festive. Love the wheel and the big bear! The cost is a bit high but I suppose its for the tourists. I believe the German Market gets really crammed at night but having been to real ones in Germany it's just not the same. Edinburghs architecture still beats most places though! Allan.
Ach, I love Edinburgh in the snow! I wish I could have seen it!
That was a nice Christmas gift. Thanks for the beautiful stroll through Edinburgh.
You're so welcome, thanks for coming along!
Another great video Steve. I don't know how you manage to film, present and edit such brilliant videos but every time I see a TH-cam notification of a new video, I'm absolutely delighted.
Cheers Tony, really appreciate that mate! I must admit it takes a lot of time to do, but I really enjoy it :)
@@steve-marsh More than welcome, your warm Scottish personality always comes across too which can only benefit our wee country👌
I always knew Steve was short for Ebenezer 😉.
Merry (Happy) (whatever you say) Christmas my friend!
Haha I've been uncovered :D
Thanks for letting us vicariously experience the wheel! The views are amazing!
Cheers! I just had to have a wee whirl :)
Edinburgh just oozes history. Who said, correctly, that it is pure theatre? Lovely video, Steve, and the capture of the wee Ford Anglia with the very large Christmas Tree on its roof was great too.
I was lucky to catch the wee car! Or maybe it just goes up and down Victoria Street all day :D
@@steve-marsh I think it's got a tie in with the Harry Potter shop on Victoria Street.
"Manufactured Christmas" and "generic tat" sums it up nicely for me.
I’ve had my hot chocolate already Steve, I have little energy just now as my blood count has crashed, so joy of joys a hospital visit is imminent! I always enjoy a stroll round Edinburgh with you, had to smile at the gardener leaf blowing, five minutes later the leaves are back again! I agree with your comments about Christmas markets, and I admired the true Scotsman wearing the kilt! but the highlight for me was the look on your face when you realised you hadn’t reached the top of the Ferris wheel, it looked a lot safer than when I last went on one some sixty years ago 😅 thanks again for an enjoyable wander round the Christmas festivities 🥳 happy holiday to you and Alicja, not too much Sassenach whisky mind you, Slainte mhath! 🥃
And to you too Bernice :) Alicja will be back in a couple of videos before Christmas with her wee smiles and dances! All the best with the hospital visit
@@steve-marsh thank you 🙏 Steve, will know more this coming Tue. looking forward to your pre-Christmas videos to cheer me up! Philip has sent you a wee donation on my behalf, 🤗
Thanks to your excellent video I now consider I have seen the Edinburgh Christmas markets so won't need to visit in person. That's a relief.
Haha wise choice Colin :)
Totally agree with everything you say. Haven't been to Edinburgh for years. It's the same with winter wonderland in London, put on to make money and fleece everyone. Hope all is well and you are having a great weekend. Take care
And to you too! We headed for the hills yesterday, so just editing a video from that now :)
what an amazing place Edinburgh hope to visit one day always was amazed by Scotland's beautiful scenery and colors thanks Steve another great video
Thanks so much Jack
You are more than welcome Steve
Loved the montage! You’re right about the colors in the rain, but also I have to say your videography has really improved. Kudos, man.
Cheers Jack!
Thanks for showing us around Edinburgh and the market and all the decorations round the houses and it is very busy and and it is nice to see the building and the castle and hope you have some hot chocolate drink and it looks nice in the evening with the Christmas lights round merry Christmas to you both
Thanks so much from us both Elaine! Merry Christmas to you too!
It’s great to see around Edinburgh during winter days and nights.
The Christmas mood has been captured perfectly with the end montage under lights.
Cheers! And I believe there's been some snow there now too!
Historic and beautiful Edinburgh. I visited once and must go back 🇮🇪🏴
Edinburgh has a special place in my heart, n Christmas is my thing. So this vid is a combo treat 👍👍. I'm always curious if the Water of Leith walkthrough has itself Christmas lights along the way n opened in the evening. That'd b awesome. I saw your vid when u n Alicja attempts to spend the night under the small bridge somewhere in the middle of the wood. would u do it again? 😂
Haha not sure we'd repeat that one, but never say never! Hope you enjoy all the festivities :)
Thanks for this one Steve - you're so right about Christmas market tat BUT the whole video brought a big smile to my face as I'll be back home (in Edinburgh) in less than two weeks now :) Great nighttime scenes at the end, and as for Oh Come All Ye Faithful as an outro soundtrack.... great choice 😊
Cheers Ian! Have a wonderful visit! :)
Your not being harsh at all. Went last night for the first time and fully agree with you. It’s just commercialised, over expensive tat. Best thing about Edinburgh this year to be honest is the way the castle is lit up!
Very true!
Brilliant Steve,
Have to say Edinburgh at night was beautiful, but agree with you about the Christmas market,it could be really special with a little effort.
Aye a wee bit of creative thinking would make all the difference, I see it as very lazy. Agreed though - beautiful after dark!
That was a very nice walk around Edinburgh Steve thank you xx you were very brave taking a ride on that big wheel I couldnt I like both my feet on the ground xx 😁
Thanks Jeanette! All for the video, otherwise NO CHANCE :)
Great video Steve. Yes unfortunately all those markets are about the same, but I love the way you captured the lights and sounds of that beautiful city. Loved the Ford Anglia with the tree strapped to the roof at elf he end! Keep up the good work…
Cheers Ken! I was lucky to catch the Ford Anglia (and just before my camera battery ran out too!)
Thanks for braving the crowds to record the video. What I like to do in Edinburgh, London or any of the cities I visit is to ride a city bus to the end of the line. That way I get to see the city outside of the center and it doesn't cost very much.
That's a great idea, and maybe for a future video!
@@steve-marsh Just keep publishing you dash cam videos please. I just love to ride along on those.
That's a brilliant idea. One for the notebook 😂😂😂.
Well Ebenezer, I agree that they could be better done probably everywhere. Christmas is becoming so commercialized that I think that sometimec the true reason of it is forgotten. And with the content of this I was assuming we were going to keep both feet on the ground this time. Silly me! I should have known that you would find some way to get us in the air. Say hi to Alicja for me. Be well, stay safe, merriest of Christmases, love from Texas.
Thanks Kate and all the best to you! Alicja will be back for the next couple of videos, just editing them now :)
Loved seeing Edinburgh at christmas and the day and night montage. Very pretty and loved the view from the wheel.Nerves of steel there😬as a sufferer of heights . Thanks again for a great video.
Cheers Sarah! Aye, the wheel was ONLY done for the video, otherwise NO CHANCE :D
Edinburghs a firm favourite place to visit. I always just find there’s a certain buzz about the place. Calton Hill’s a great place, and I find it really nice to hear a variety of different accents from people across the world all enjoying themselves here.
Very true Anthony :)
I am not much for crowds and the commercial nonsense, but it is wonderful to see the activity from a distance. The city is so vibrant all decked out in lights and activity. A December visit is now on my list! Thank you so much for this snapshot of Edinburgh during the festive season, and thank you for the ride on the wheel as well - the views even on a cloudy day are amazing. I really enjoyed this video!
Stay safe in the snow ,hope you enjoyed the snoker.🎅🕊️❄️💕
Cheers Sean! Aye the snooker was really good thanks :)
Totally agree Steve! Put some Scotland in the market. Lots of the merch can be found anywhere
Always good to see the "Alternative" Edinburgh.....the areas beyond Instagram :) Towards the end of your piece, Ecco Vino is a great wee place to eat.
Oh good shout! :)
Really enjoyed it steve, a nice walk around Edinburgh. Scrooge never, gifts for alicja, a bag of seaweed, 2,000 steps and a open top view from the Stirling monument during sleet, you’re all heart, can’t wait for alicja treat in January, merry Xmas to you both. Christmas shopping starts on Xmas eve
Haha I keep expectations low eh!? :D
Great video Steve - I’m in Edinburgh at the moment visiting family. I’m not a fan of the markets either but did have a very quick look yesterday before it got too busy or too cold ! Had planned to visit the botanics instead this morning, but gardens were closed due to the snow but had to settle for quick walk and snowball fight in inverleith park ! Followed this evening by a great performance by the Scottish ballet at the festival theatre. I may try and pop into the portrait gallery sometime ….Christmas decorations there were amazing last year .. and a bit warmer and less crowded than the markets !
Hey you've got a well planned trip! Enjoy the rest of it :) We both love to catch the Scottish Ballet when we can!
I keep saying to my family in Scotland that we'd love to experience a winter Christmas one day, but as I watched this in 23 degree sunshine I'm thinking "nah, you're all right thanks" 🤣🤣
You're right about the side streets and suburbs being better for shopping, I'm not into crowds either and the Edinburgh festival was challenging for us.
Thanks for braving the ferris wheel and filming the lights at night.
The local kids here have to stay up late to see the Christmas lights, as it's not dark till after 10pm at the moment.
Lovely video, Steve 😊
Oh Kelley, the winter has really hit hard in the last few days (but I have to be honest and say I LOVE it!) :)
Thanks for the walk though a welcomed December Edinburgh. Nice decorations, market's, activities. I'm sure the kids are really impressed! Hope the hard working local merchants were able to get some tourist dollars into their local businesses. Could be their biggest month of the year with all the online shopping that is done. The narration is helpful for us to become more familiar with your neighborhood. Hello to everyone!
Yeah, I kinda feel for the traders who are there all year, but then get ignored by the incoming garden sheds full of tat! It's still a wonderful city though, and a pleasure to show you around :)
Hi Steve, thankyou so much for making this vlog. I spent many a happy childhood holiday's in Edinburgh/Rose street in the 60's/70's as my mother was Scottish and her family lived in the flats at Rose street. I don't think the flats are still there now? An excellent and heart warming vlog as usual. Cheers Steve and Merry Xmas and all the best to you and Alicja. 😁
Another Superb vid , really like them , totally agree with you about the whole crappy markets , would love to see the city another time please 😀 🙏
So many more videos to make there when it quietens down a bit :)
Lovely video Steve! I make my first visit to Edinburgh at the end of January and though the Christmas stuff will be over, this is getting me excited to be there!
And I have to agree on the cheesy wares on sale at those markets. It would be nicer if it was unique local gifts!
Thanks Maggie! Oh I'm so excited for you, I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time :)
Brilliant Steve … its parking that does my head in in that city does my head in .. wishing you and your lady a fantastic Christmas
Same to you Brian!
Thank you for stepping up and taking us on the wheel for the beautiful views. I agree with what you saying about the Christmas markets.
Cheers! Still a wonderful city, but not worth standing in a queue for the markets that's for sure :)
Very pretty at Christmas time in Edinburgh
Very much agree with ya about the generic merchandise It's often the same stuff you'd see at a market in London or anywhere else, and at most any time of year not the least bit Christmas related. Edinburgh is fantastic around the holidays, though - it's as if the city were purpose-built to provide a classic Dickensian Christmas aesthetic! Thanks for another fantastic video!
So true! :)
Beautiful City and just love it at Christmas Time thanks again for the fantastic video and all the information
Thanks so much for coming along for a look round :)
That looks like a great time to visit the city! It's so beautiful with all of the small Christmas lights all around. I agree about huge crowds, but it sounds like if you time it right you can make the best of all the places you want to see. I prefer off-season everyone I go. There is something magical and cozy about seeing it during the holiday season. With the right clothes to keep you dry, warm and comfortable, I think it would be perfect. It's going on the bucket list for sure! Thanks so much for the tour Steve.
Wish I was there. It is great to see the people back after going through such a horrific time the last couple of years. Cheers to all of you and thank you Steve for showing us around. Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas Steve :)
Really enjoyed this, I've always been curious about the Christmas Market. Hope to make it there one day. I've got to say, the haggis baked potato & Irn Bru while taking cover from the rain sounds excellent. I'm also loving the "Steve's Notes" section, it's very helpful & informative.
Hey thanks so much, and glad you're liking the new notes section :)
Its a good job Scotland is energy rich with all the extra lighting used at this time of year. How about next year having a wander around Katowice with Alicja for a comparison of Christmas celebrations Steve, I've spent a few in Wroclaw and they were great..!!
Oh that is such a good shout! And I'm sure Alicja could show me some amazing wee local secret places!
I want to go back so much. Thank you for this wonderful peek at a beautiful city.
Cheers Lisa! Sorry it was such a short look round, I had a train to catch! :)
@@steve-marsh it was perfect!
Cool video Steve, it looked cool at night with all the lights👍Shame you didn't wait until today and you could have added some snow to the mix😜
Ach I know! Edinburgh really suits the snow!
Thanks for taking one for the team, and going up in the wheel. I enjoyed the great view of The Scottish National Gallery. I fondly remember my visit there, and still have the poster I bought there, framed and on my living room wall. I couldn’t find it myself, but could you see the “Golden Turd” from up there? 😆
You didn’t happen to go through Candlemaker Row or Grassmarket, did you? I wonder if they are decorated up for Christmas as well.
Glad you managed to have an okay time whilst taking us along. Cheers and ATB
Ahhh I didn't! Candlemaker Row is a good shout, I love it there (and even just the name ofc!) Cheers for coming along for a walk with old Ebeneezer :D
Nico one. I'll be back in Edinburgh at the weekend for a few days visiting mum and ofcourse the city centre. Think I'll walk up through Stockie, used to go to school and work there as well. I had. View of the water of Leith from my office looking forward to it already 👍🏴
Nice one Michael! What an office view!!!! Have a great time :)
Loved this Steve. Beautifully put together.
Thanks so much! :)
Love to see more cool/hidden Edinburgh content vlogs. Celebrate the local vendors and stuff the locals do. Thanks for the post, Steve. Merry Christmas mate.
Cheers Paul! Merry Christmas!
Hopefully I’ll get there one day in the not too distant future.All the best from Australia mate.How nice was that Ford Anglia at the end.
Cheers David, aw the best!
Hi Steve...I loved the view from the top of the wheel 😀! Thanks for being brave enough 😊.
Even though there were a few garish sights ( like found all over the world), it's still lovely to see Christmas in another city. Great choice of music at the end, too👍
Thanks Heather! So true, still a wonderful city :)
Brilliant video Steve, and good to see my home toon. Edinburgh is such a magical city and a fantastic destination for visitors to come to. All the best
Cheers Bryan! Aw the best to you too!
A snooker fan too! Steve, your channel just keeps getting better! Btw.. can you come and do a video in my beautiful island of sark? Cheers, Steve. Keep up the brill work
Oof that would be an amazing video trip! I sailed to Alderney once as a kid, that was as close as I've been and it was a longggg time ago!
Great minds, Steve! We have very similar views about the Christmas Markets. Nice views from the wheel - the queue was too long to get on that for my vlog! 😀
Aye you were spot on mate! Always glad that so many people enjoy Edinburgh, but it could just be SO much better!
The magic of Christmas is in the small miracles. ❤ Thank you for a look around the side streets as well as the glitz. Hope to visit Scotland one day. 😊
Thanks so much Gabriele! All the best to you!
Thanks for the video! Great to see what other cities' Christmas markets look like
It does look very busy and elbow to elbow!
Thanks so much for coming along for a look :)
We stayed right on the Royal Mile 2-3 weeks after you filmed this. We stayed over Christmas and walked most of the places you did. We had such an amazing time.
Great video, Steve. Thank you for enduring the kitch, Christmas tat, festive musak, and horrendously dangerous heights for us all......so that we don't have to 🤣
From our family to your's; have a great Christmas, and a prosperous New Year. Looking forward to your 2023 vlogs.
Thanks so much and all the best from us both!
Nice to see. Loved the pretty evening lights. They certainly know how to put on 'a show' in Edinburgh. Was there for Hogmanay one year (not in the gardens, but viewing from my cousin's daughter's flat). Wonderful City 🥰
Hi Steve love the beautiful views don't like the commercial bling markets, it really spoils the Christmas market. I have to agree that a market with traditional Scottish products would be far more appealing for visitors. I also see as the year progresses you become more brave lol. As always great video.
Haha I'm worried for where this bravery will end :D
@@steve-marsh 😂
Beautiful place and thank you for sharing. I love the more traditional Christmas and the homemade things 🤗
Very enjoyable.It's 4 years since I was last at Edinburgh's Edinburgh's Christmas market,and it certainly seems to have shrunk. I've not been to Gdansk's CM this year yet. Probably the same old same old too!
I'd still love a look at Poland at Christmas, especially with the proper Christmas weather over there!
@@steve-marsh we've plenty proper Christmas weather here at the moment!🤣
For an Edinburgh Christmas day trip, take the bus up through Morningside & Dreghorn to Colinton village. It’s got some lovely walks, pretty old buildings and a nice pub. Gorgeous when disted with frost, wreaths on the doors and can smell the fires going
Great tip!
Morning mate. Another awesome video. I totally understand what you're saying about them being very generic. Down here in Manchester in previous years people have complained about the lack of local produce and the samey stalls and lack of street food vendors., so the council listened and made it more diverse. Guess what?. People have complained a LOT. This year people are furious that it's not how it was and it's not Christmassy. I guess that whatever people do, you'll always, in this day, have conflicts between the traditionalists and the ones who want a different, more modern Christmas market experience. They seem to be really divisive and prove the old saying that you can please some of the people some of the time.....
Ha yeah, that's exactly how it goes eh! :D Maybe I'm in the minority as the crowds sure do pack the place out every year, easy money I guess without too much thought required to do something unique.
Honestly, I don't mind the more generic stalls, and like some continuity (if only to see some folks again after a while, e.g. there's a quiche stand in the Brussels market who used to be in my weekly neighbourhood market I hadn't seen in ages), so yes to change, but gradually, please. And to be fair, most people are more looking for a cheap souvenir, how many people would really be interested in buying a hand-knitted jumper from Shetland for £200 or (much) more, especially when you can get a Santa hat with lights for maybe a fiver or a tenner?
@@barvdw trouble is most of it is cheap tat made in China that will be in landfill before 6 mths is up. We don't need that. Good craft markets still have cheaper options it's not all £200 jumpers (more like £60 to be fair) but stalls are so expensive its only the guys selling all the cheap tat that can afford to have one!
@@vivellasmum that's true as well, especially the part where most cheap stuff ends up as garbage sooner rather than later. But to be honest, I'm not sure I'd trust buying more expensive items on a market without having a known vendor to turn to to complain. That's why I generally don't buy leather products, for instance (it really takes a specialist's eye to see lower quality leathers, and sometimes even they can be bamboozled), and definitely no electronics. Or jewellery claiming to be real silver or gold. But I have bought woodcraft, like this wind chime on the local 'Fêtes Médiévales', or some nougat (surprisingly expensive stuff).
Nice!! Enjoyed the night time view of the town and the music. Excellent. It is fun to just wander around. There are great views from the top of the National Museum also. Thanks Steve and Merry Christmas.
Aye, the views from up there are awesome, how did I forget that!
No one does Christmas like Edinburgh! Stunning video Steve, thank you for taking the time to film this, it has inspired me to toot through for a Christmas visit x
Cheers Isobel! Have a lovely time :)
With you 100% on Christmas markets, to be honest the whole commercialization of Christmas these days.
Aye it's a real shame!
Very nice Steve ..Like a Christmas Card from Edinburgh!!.. Merry Christmas!!
Cheers mate! Merry Christmas!
As an Edin resident I agree 100% re the market but loads of folk love it including my grandsons. Film was great but veggie haggis really that’s bad. Have a great Christmas and best wishes to Alicia
Haha I tend to agree, but that haggis was amazing! Yeah, I am so happy people enjoy it (especially the youngsters), just not for me. Have a great Christmas too! :)
That was a good wee trip round some my favourite places. The Baked Potato shop on Cockburn Street is one of my first stops when I'm lucky enough to visit Edinburgh then round to Hunters Square to eat it and give the pigeons a treat ☺️. Thank you Stevie, as ever..brilliant video!
My father bought a new Ford Anglia in 1961 in Houston Texas. He loved that car. Nice to see that some are still running.
I was in Edinburgh for a day a few years ago on a day trip from York. I had a rotten cold and didn’t get to enjoy my visit. Your videos inspire me to return and spend more time than a day in Edinburgh. It looks like a fabulous city. Merry Christmas from Wyoming USA.😎👍
Thanks for sharing Bill, this one is (just about!) still running :D Ach, I really hope you get the chance to return, a cold can spoil the trip for sure, but Edinburgh never changes and is waiting ready for your return!
What a beautiful video. I really enjoy them, especially those with Alicia on the longer walks during warmer days. I live in the Caribbean and have visited Edinburgh and other Scottish cities so these just bring back memories.Thank you and Merry Christmas both of you.
Thanks so much! Alicja back in the next couple of videos :)
...that was lovely to watch, Steve, and peppered like always with some of your dry humour, and a wee rant (which I completely agree with!)... but even so, with a lot of sterile, repeat business and overcrowded-ness - you, I and a lot of other followers can't help loving that town... Edinburgh has a heart-felt warmth and charm... I very much enjoyed the wee walks with you in this early December... thanks shall you have, as always! xx
Thanks so much for coming along :) And they had snow this week, that would have been magical!
Here in Alberta I have found a store selling Duncan’s of Deeside Shortbread. That’s the sort of thing I look forward to at Christmas.
Here here! Well said :)
I don't think I've tried that brand of shortbread, though I would give it a try. I manage to get Walkers Shortbread at the local stores around Massachusetts.
Thanks Steve and great to see the tattie shop still going strong.
Absolutely love that place, and pleasantly surprised the prices haven't hiked in such a prime spot
We are kindred spirits in the grumpy old men club when it comes to the plasticity and commercialization of Christmas, not even the end of October this year and my local supermarkets had started to churn out the fake Christmas. I tend to get well away from all the crowds and just enjoy the season in solitude with a few wee drams and a good book, until the next video I wish you and Alicja a very merry Christmas and a happy safe and healthy new year,take care and cheers.
And to you too Simon! :) We went to the supermarket this morning and it wasn't the most pleasant experience :D
I too am a scrooge when it comes to Christmas. I'm retired now in the US. where I've lived for many, many years. I worked in the retail trade for a large corporation, this one store would pull in a ton of money between the end of November and Christmas. Extremely busy. Wall to wall people every day. Dealing with the public can be a challenge at times. Still though, it would be nice to visit Scotland once again, especially at Christmas.
Edinburgh isa special place to be any season .Christmas time adds something to it .Great video as usual .Thanks Steve I am a long time subscriber .By the way merry Christmas 😀
Thanks so much mate! Aw the best for Christmas from us both! Hopefully still a couple of videos to come before the end of the year!
If you ever go to Singapore, you must visit the Singapore flyer
(much the same idea as the London eye) Great views
I climbed the Scott Monument in 1973. I watched your video of the "steps of Edinburgh" and was hopeful that you had done that during that escapade. Nice to see it all these years later.
Very similar feelings about the 'official' xmas market, last went about 5 years ago when family were visiting town otherwise there are may better (less busy) places in the city. It has been scaled back a bit since the organisers changed this year which I think it a better move for preserving the gardens for the rest of the year.
Indeed, previous organisers destroyed the grass in the bottom part of the Gardens and ruined it for the whole year - good to see that this year they've scaled it back to preserve it for the rest of year.
@@drsteele sadly it was only scaled back as the company booked to run the markets this year, pulled out at the last minute with 6 weeks notice, which left the council scrambling to find and alternative. That alternative meant it couldn't return on the same scale as previous years. Needless to say next year it will be back with a bang! Sadly a bang to the gardens which will once again take the brunt of it
Amazed they don't have it in the contract to 'leave the gardens like you found them'
We went before COVID to Budapest to see their Christmas Markets. They were the same, but the bonus was all the other city sights. Recommend, if you can Steve, a visit there, maybe after Xmas.
Oh great shout! I still have some currency from there (we'd booked to go for the day, but hadn't realised at the time their COVID restrictions meant we couldn't go). So we really need to rectify that!
Steve you always give your best,Many thanks for that and a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your loved ones.🍀🍀🍀
Ant to you and yours! :) Aww the best!
Here in Leeds, they decided against the Christmas market due to covid risk and energy cost, they do an annual German market before Covid
Hi Steve, yeah typical Xmas market there's never anything different in them, you can pick most of it up in the shops any time of the year.hope you have a great Xmas
So true Mick :D
Agree with you. That did look busy after dark! Afraid that would be a hard pass for me! Anyway, I hope you and yours have a very merry Christmas!
And you you too Bill!
Steve, one of my very favourite places to go (which I try and make time for whenever I’m in Edinburgh), is the Susannah Stephen Memorial in Jame’s Court, Lawnmarket. It’s such a peaceful spot, away from the crowds. She loved travel (as we both do) and the words on the plinth I just think are really beautiful - ‘keep your face towards the sun & the shadows will fall behind you’. Magical.
Fantastic! I didn't know about this but will sure look out for it next time, cheers mate!
Thank you Steve for showing us Edinburgh at Christmas-time. The fabricated Christmasmarket you showed us @5:10 looks very similar to the German Weihnachtsmarkte I've seen in Oldenburg and Bremen. Greetings from the Netherlands and keep up the good work.
my thoughts exactly, it’s trying to look like Germanic markets a bit too hard
I think to be honest they are replicated worldwide now...certainly across the whole of Europe, something that Germany does is extremely well is Christmas :)
@@malcolmstockbridge2569 it should, since many traditions are German in origin 😉
I'd love to see something authentic. But here they think if you put products in a garden shed, you can charge 4x the price :D
@@steve-marsh Of course much the same thing happens in every 'Garden Centre' in the UK....and not just at Christmas !