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Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tours & Trips

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Edinburgh Tattoo History

The very first Edinburgh Tattoo took place in 1950 and since this time, more than 14 million people have attended the Tattoo in Scotland. The majority of event attendees are native to Scotland and the United Kingdom, while the remaining 70,000 attendees consist of overseas visitors. Over 100 million people watch the Tattoo on television every year with the first colour broadcast premiering in 1968.

The Tattoo also helps raise money for charities that focus on both military service and civilian organizations. Throughout the years, the event has donated around €8 million to charity.

The word “tattoo” is derived from the last call cries heard in the inns of the Low Countries during the 17th and 18th centuries to inform customers that the keg taps were about to be cut off for the night. Much more stylish than your standard ring of the bell!​​

The Essentials

  • The climb to the castle is steep and the venue is massive with lots of steps so wear comfortable shoes
  • The venue does offer wheelchair accessible seating
  • Tickets are available for purchase at different tiers, ranging from the Royal Gallery (best seats) which can run you over €220 to standard seating at a cost of €70 per ticket
  • Dress for the Scottish weather! Even though it’ll be August it can get quite cold in the evening
  • Bring a waterproof jacket with a hood in case it rains (umbrellas are not permitted) 
  • Outside food and drinks can be brought in, but hot food and alcohol is not permitted 
  • Book accommodation, travel and event tickets very far in advance (several months) to avoid disappointment

Useful Scottish Gaelic Phrases

Good morning
Madainn mhath
How are you?
Ciamar a tha thu
Thank you
Tapadh leat
Have a good day
Latha math dhut

More on the Edinburgh Tattoo

Highlights of the Royal Edinburg Military Tattoo

  • International Military Bands

  • Fireworks

  • Atmosphere

Top Edinburgh Tattoo Tours

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The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Facts

  • What is the Edinburgh Military Tattoo?

    The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an annual showcase of military performances by British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and international military bands and display teams on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh, Scotland. Edinburg Military Tattoo takes place outside of Edinburgh’s iconic castle and its events range from military ceremonies, theatre, dancing and live music conducted by performers from over 48 countries.

  • What is the military tattoo?

    A tattoo is a military performance of music that involves complex theatrics and musical performances by members of the armed forces. These events are incredibly popular worldwide with over 200,000 people attending the tattoo in Scotland every year. In fact, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is so popular that the event has sold out in advance for the past decade.

How to Get to Edinburgh

  • From the airport

    The Airlink 100 express bus runs from the airport to Edinburgh Castle and takes about 25 minutes. You can board at Waverley Bridge stop near the main railway station. Tickets can be purchased from the information desk at International Arrivals or on the bus.

  • By car

    If you plan on driving you can park at Castle Terrace or Johnston Terrace. Cheaper parking is available at NCP’s Edinburgh Castle Terrace car park. Remember to get your parking tokens validated at Edinburgh’s Castle’s audio booth. Rates will be subject to steep increases during the Tattoo.

  • By train

    Waverley is Edinburgh’s main station. From Princes Street, you’ll travel past  Waverley Bridge, The Mound, Mound Place, and Ramsay Lane to the castle’s esplanade. You can buy your tickets up to 12 weeks in advance which is recommended when trying to get the lowest fare. The train also brings travellers to Edinburgh from various locations throughout the United Kingdom.

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