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Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)

bands marching across the forecourt at dusk in front of the grandstands

Credit Shutterstock.com/P Gregory

Last updated: 06 February, 2024

Cannons thundering, military bands marching, drums rolling, pipers playing, fireworks blazing across the night sky: the Tattoo, set against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, has amazed audiences for more than 60 years.

The 90-minute show, which also includes state-of-the-art light displays and 1,000 musicians, singers and dancers from all over the world, is brought to an end by the soulful lament of a lone piper. It’s a spectacular, emotional rollercoaster.

Logistics

Price from: £25

Minimum age: 0

Age suitable: 6+

Frequency: annually

When: First 3 weeks August

Duration: 90 minutes

Getting there & doing it

The Tattoo Office is on Market Street next to Waverley Station, but you can buy tickets online or over the phone. Saturday performances book out quickly. On the night, weave your way at dusk up the Royal Mile to the castle. Gates open 45 minutes before the start. The spectacle lasts for 90 minutes.

Edinburgh nights can be chilly – huddle together and take warm clothes, a waterproof and a cushion. No performance has ever been cancelled because of the weather.

When to do it

The Tattoo is held nightly during the first three weeks of August.

Who to go with: organised tours

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Scottish Highlands Day Trip and Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Edinburgh

Viator

Tour the Scottish Highlands on a day trip from Edinburgh, and then watch the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at night. Capturing the essence of Scotland in one day, the experience offers the perfect combination of Scottish Highland countryside, a whisky distillery tour with a sample and a guaranteed ticket to the Military Tattoo — where festival-style performances and marches take place at Edinburgh Castle’s historical esplanade.

Price £199

Min age 5

Rating 4.48 / 5 [76 ratings]

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