It’s no surprise that the incredibly popular Edinburgh Military Tattoo sells out many months in advance. British TIPS team member, Nel, says it’s one of the best events she’s ever attended: “It’s magical, especially with the castle walls being illuminated like a backdrop. So atmospheric! The choreography and precision of everything is next level – if you’re someone that likes watching the opening of the Olympics and things like that, you’ll enjoy this! I like the combination of Scottish tradition, like bagpipes and drummers, with international performances. And the grand finale with the fireworks over the castle… Wow. I’ll never forget it. I love booking Tattoo tickets for our clients, because I just know they will absolutely LOVE it!”
Here are Nel’s top tips:
Book in advance (tickets and accommodation)
I can’t stress this enough, especially if you’re a group wanting to sit together! Tickets usually go on sale in November/December for the following year and sell out months in advance. As an authorised reseller, we emphasise that people should not delay in booking their tickets. The same goes for accommodation. We hand pick our accommodation options, based on what we know works best for our clients.
Dress accordingly
You don’t have to wear your Sunday best, but my advice is to remember 4 things:
- It’s quite a “hike” up to the castle esplanade, a lot of it on cobbles, and then you might need to slog up a bunch of stairs in the stands. Wear comfy shoes.
- You’re sitting still in a small space for a long time, so dress comfortably.
- I found it really chilly up in the stands so, even if it’s been a sunny day, pack warm layers and a hat.
- The event goes ahead rain or shine. Bring a hooded raincoat or waterproof poncho (umbrellas aren’t allowed). It drizzled that day so we took plastic ponchos to put on the seats before we sat down. I did see some ponchos for sale there but they were super expensive and there’s a queue – better to bring one from home.
You may want to bring something to sit on too, like a little cushion – those plastic-covered seats can be chilly!
Pack snacks
If you won’t have time for dinner before you go or you have children with you, bring snacks. You can’t take hot food, alcohol, cans, bottles over 750ml, or anything in glass, but unopened smaller plastic bottles under 750ml and things like an energy bar are allowed. There’s not much choice there (that’s affordable!) plus it’s a mission to get out of the stands. Otherwise, have a lovely dinner at one of the awesome restaurants in Edinburgh beforehand, like we did!
Keep your bag small
You can only bring in a small bag/rucksack (under A3 size) so don’t pack too much! I saw people queuing with huge bags and it caused a real problem at security. If you’re taking lots of stuff with you (the snacks and the cushion and the layers…) stash them in a foldable bag so, if there are issues, you can just put on the clothes and fold away the bag.
Bring earplugs
If you have sensitive hearing or are bringing children, bring earplugs/noise-reducing headphones. It’s really loud with all the drummers, pipers, music and fireworks!
Time your arrival
The show is at one of the most magnificent places in the UK. Arrive a bit early for a slow stroll up to the castle, soak up the atmosphere, take some selfies, and enjoy the view over the city. Alternatively, if you just want to get to your seat as fast as possible, the queue moves faster once doors have opened so, wait before heading over. Doors usually open about 45 minutes before the show starts and I suggest allowing at least 15 minutes to get to your seat, especially if you’re way up at the top.
…and your departure
Thousands of people attend each show and it is slow progress leaving after the performance. Avoid scheduling anything for shortly after the event so you don’t have to rush anywhere. If you’re relying on public transport, like trams, check the timetables beforehand. Taxis get snapped up and, even if you’ve booked a transfer, the roads get pretty clogged up so it will take time. We stayed nearby so we could just amble back to our hotel!
Visit the castle (another time)
Edinburgh Castle is a Must Visit but you won’t be able to go in and explore on the evening. You’ll need to go early in the day or on another day. We visited the morning before, which was great because we got to see everything without a big rush and we then had an idea of the layout. Just remember the entry to the castle isn’t included in your Tattoo ticket so you need to buy this separately. We book castle tickets separately or in combo with sightseeing buses, or can include it in your package.
I really loved the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and I know you will too – so give us a shout to book!
Email sales@britishtips.com or WhatsApp 0027 76 399 4640 or call 0027 21 975 2047 to book your tickets, hospitality, accommodation and more.
