Students shocked that Christmas Market has scrapped iconic tradition.

By Megan Reid

The announcement that Edinburgh's Christmas markets will be left without its iconic ice rink this year has left the public shocked and disappointed. 

The Edinburgh Christmas Markets attract thousands of visitors each year, with festive food stalls and seasonal attractions helping create a popular festive feeling. However, the absence of the ice rink could change the atmosphere and spoil the event for visitors. 

For some people, ice skating in Edinburgh has become an annual tradition, making the news upsetting for those who travel through from Glasgow. 

Katie Spears, a student at City of Glasgow College, said: "I go every year and it's really not going to be the same festive market without the ice rink." 

The Ice rink has become one of the market’s most famous attractions.

She added: "It's really not a Christmas market without the ice rink, is it?" 

Jimmy Mclaren, who is also from Glasgow, was also upset by the move to cancel the ice rink.  

He said: "It's going to be a real let-down this year without it." 

The markets will remain a popular destination over the festive season; however, the news of the missing ice rink has left some visitors reconsidering their plans or looking for alternative activities. 

Jimmy said: "It's been going on for many years and it's just wrong that it is not going to be there this year." 

Despite the disappointment, no doubt the markets will still attract thousands of guests looking to experience the festive atmosphere. Whether the other attractions will make up for the missing ice rink remains to be seen.