The Edinburgh Insider Blog

One of the most famous images of Edinburgh features a gentleman skating on the frozen surface of Duddingston Loch. For many people the Raeburn painting sums up how they imagine Edinburgh. However, in reality, the weather in Edinburgh does not often get cold enough to go skating on nearby ponds. So if you are interested in skating, you might consider heading over to the Murrayfield Ice Rink. Skating there is available all year round.

I don't actually own a garden but that's never stopped me enjoying a visit to the Edinburgh branch of Dobbies Garden Centres. And in December there's all the more reason to visit, because Santa will be there most days up until Christmas. For £5 (bookable in advance) youngsters can have a chat with Santa in his grotto at Dobbie and get a wee present to take home.

Can there be a better time of year to see Frank Capra's Yuletide classic It&'s a Wonderful Life than Christmas? If, like me, you think not, then you'll be pleased to know that Edinburgh's Filmhouse is screening the movie as one of a series of Christmas classics over the festive period. One of the most popular films ever made, It's a Wonderful Life is a heart-warming testimony to the enduring value of community that always brings a tear to the eyes. James Stewart gives an unforgettable performance as the dreamer who sacrifices all for his fellow man. Speaking personally, the film always does what only really good art can do; it makes me re-evaluate my own life.

It's not every Christmas grotto where you get to see not only Santa himself, but also watch the reindeer being fed their favourite grub. But if you head along to Edinburgh Zoo any weekend in December, youngsters can have a chat with the bearded gentleman about what they'd like for Christmas. And they can also get to watch the reindeer munching carrots. No doubt doing so in readiness for the onslaught that awaits them on December 25.

Got an interest in tracking down the Holy Grail? If so, you may already know the Grail's rumoured home is here in Edinburgh. And, what's more, you'll be pleased to learn this resting place is getting the biggest revamp in its 500-year history. A £13m restoration project is underway at Edinburgh's Rosslyn Chapel, famed for its reputed links to the Knights Templar and Holy Grail. If nothing else, the project is proof of how five centuries of wear and tear can take their toll on even the best-connected of buildings. But don't worry, the building will remain open to visitors while work - due to complete in July 2010 - takes place.

Good news for New Year revellers - Edinburgh's Hogmanay 2010 is taking place over an expanded five-day programme, longer than ever before in the event's 17 year history. The expanded celebrations have some major new attractions - many of them free - that should bring the city alive over New Year. I'm particularly looking forwards to the torchlight procession down the Royal Mile. Not that I'm a pyromaniac or anything.... but it's good to get a bit pagan at Hogmanay.

If you're only in Edinburgh a short time and fancy getting some exercise, why not consider a drop-in class at the city's Dancebase in the Grassmarket. Unlike most dance classes, there's no need to book an entire term, you can simply turn up half an hour before the class and buy your ticket. Or buy a ticket on-line from 10am on the day of the class. Prices vary, from around £6 to £7.50.

If, like most of us, you can't afford a holiday somewhere warm this year, then you might enjoy heading along to Edinburgh's Butterfly and Insect World, where the tropical glasshouses climate means a visit there is like stepping into a Caribbean island. Except without the same expense.