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Student Stories

Student Stories

Blogs and vlogs from students of the University of Edinburgh

Tips to survive Edinburgh during winter

View of a small lake with the sun shining above.
Reading time: 3 minutes

By Othilia, from Sweden, studying International Law

Coming back to Edinburgh after Winter break can be exciting, scary, or both. It may feel overwhelming starting your studies all over again or leaving friends and family if you have spent the break at home.

Here are my top three things I try to do to make the most of the city and to make January more fun and less dark (because it gets dark very early).

An everyday adventure

One thing that has helped me a lot is trying to make everyday an adventure. It doesn’t have to be something grand; it can just be taking a walk. Spending time outdoors is something that has helped me feel more energised. Being outside during some of the hours of sunlight also makes the days feel less short.

View from Arthur's Seat of the city at sunset.

I often take walks around the city and Arthur’s seat is my favourite route to walk. Not only are there so many different paths to take but there are always people out and about – walking their dogs, friends having a chat, and people out for a run.

When I miss my family or feel alone, and don’t want to socialise, I take a walk. Being around other people and in nature works for me, and the amazing views Arthur’s seat offers of the city, the Castle, and the sea only makes it better.

Try something new

Another thing that helps me is having something to look forward to during the week or trying something new. One of the things I have tried recently is Hotpod yoga. I had never heard of it before a friend mentioned it. She had a voucher for a free session, and I joined her. It was so fun trying something I had never done before.

A chalk board stand with Hotpod Yoga Edinburgh written on it.

During the yoga session I was so focused on trying to do the exercises that I completely forgot about anything else. It was an hour I didn’t have all the worries of ‘real life’ on my mind. Instead of thinking how to best prepare for the next seminar, the laundry I had to do or if any of my friends would want to hang out, I was able to just be in the moment.

An added bonus is that Hotpod yoga is done in a pod that is 37 degrees Celsius, so not only did I get a break from ‘real life’ but also from the cold January weather.

Why not try and find a new activity to try through Edinburgh University Students’ Association (EUSA). They have an events list on their website that is constantly being updated.

View EUSA events list

Get away from the city centre

Another thing I sometimes do is getting away from the city centre. It helps make the city feel less touristy and I often find new shops or cute cafés. Going to New Town is always one of my recommendations but the place I venture to the most is the beach.

View of the beach and sea at sunset.

I often forget Edinburgh is so close to the sea even when it is only a walk or a bus ride away. I often walk since it only takes about an hour but there are several buses that takes you there as well. The beach is a nice place to get some fresh air, enjoy fish and chips or a cup of tea, and for those who feel brave to take a swim.

Top tip you can use the Lothian bus journey planner to help you find out the best bus routes and stops for you. They also have an app you can download for on the go use.

Use the Lothian bus journey planner

Download the Lothian Bus and Tram app

Thanks for taking the time to read about some of the things I do to make January feel less dark and cold.

Leave a comment to let me know your tips for surviving January in Edinburgh.

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