As the days grow shorter and Edinburgh’s skyline glows in soft autumn light, November brings a special kind of magic to Scotland’s capital. Between film festivals, whisky tastings, cultural celebrations, and cosy seasonal walks, the city buzzes with things to see and do – all before the Christmas lights begin to sparkle.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying a little longer, here are six unmissable things to do in Edinburgh this November – all easy to reach from Code The Court, our historic hotel on the Royal Mile.
1. Edinburgh Short Film Festival
📍 Filmhouse Cinema
🔗 filmhouse.org.uk/edinburgh-short-film-festival
For over a decade, the Edinburgh Short Film Festival has been one of the city’s cultural highlights — celebrating creative voices from Scotland and around the world. Expect a mix of drama, animation, documentary, and experimental shorts screened in atmospheric venues across the city.
With Q&As, networking events, and live music nights, it’s the perfect excuse to step out of the November chill and into a cinema seat for some world-class storytelling.
Tip: Check out the international collaborations this year — from Italy to Japan — for a truly global film experience.
2. A Wee Dram at The Lost Close
📍 Beneath CoDE The Court – 1A Parliament Square
🔗 Book the Wee Dram Experience
Step below the streets of Edinburgh and discover The Lost Close, a historic vault hidden beneath Code The Court. The Wee Dram Experience is an intimate whisky tasting led by passionate storytellers who’ll share the fascinating history behind each dram — and the city itself.
Perfect for: whisky lovers, curious travellers, and anyone seeking an authentic Scottish experience.
3. Edinburgh Zoo Giant Lanterns
📍 134 Corstorphine Road
🔗 edinburghzoo.org.uk
As night falls, Edinburgh Zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland. The Giant Lanterns of China return with breathtaking handcrafted sculptures inspired by wildlife, folklore, and fantasy.
Walk among giant glowing animals and illuminated gardens, with food stalls and festive treats along the route. It’s family-friendly, photogenic, and perfect for anyone craving a bit of light and colour during the darker months.
4. Pentlands Book Festival
📍 Various venues in South West Edinburgh
🔗 pentlandsbookfestival.org
Book lovers rejoice! The Pentlands Book Festival brings together writers, poets, historians, and storytellers for a celebration of Scottish literature and thought-provoking discussion.
From intimate readings to panel talks, the festival offers a cosy and inspiring escape from the November chill. It’s a great way to connect with Edinburgh’s literary spirit — the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.
5. Edinburgh MoRunning
📍 Inverleith Park
🔗 mo-running.com/edinburgh
Support men’s health and have fun doing it at MoRunning Edinburgh, a 5K or 10K charity race with a twist — moustaches encouraged! Whether you run, jog, or walk, it’s a brilliant way to get active while raising money for the Movember Foundation.
Expect a lively crowd, fancy dress, medals, and a feel-good atmosphere that’ll warm you up even in November’s brisk air.
6. Edinburgh Diwali Festival
📍 New Town
🔗 edinburghdiwali.co.uk
Add some sparkle to your November with the Edinburgh Diwali Festival, a joyful celebration of light, colour, and community. The event includes music, dance, traditional Indian food stalls, and a spectacular lantern parade through the city centre.
It’s a truly special way to experience Edinburgh’s multicultural side — and a beautiful reminder that light always shines brightest as the nights grow longer.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh This November
Make Code The Court your base for exploring Edinburgh’s autumn and early winter magic. Housed in a historic former courthouse and jail on the Royal Mile, our hybrid hotel blends heritage and comfort in the heart of the Old Town.
You’ll be just steps away from the city’s top attractions — and directly above The Lost Close, one of Edinburgh’s most fascinating hidden spaces.
Book your stay at CoDE The Court this November and experience the warmth, culture, and creativity that make Edinburgh unforgettable.
👉 Book Now
