The List

Edinburgh Castle

Sitting atop the volcanic Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline and is the most popular paid visitor attraction in Scotland. Events at the castle include regular re-enactments of events from its history, occasional concerts by big-name performers, and in August, the Castle Esplanade is the venue for the world-famous Military Tattoo. Other attractions include James IV's famous cannon, Mons Meg, the One O'Clock Gun with its own exhibition, and lots of military silverware. There are also various guided tours to make the most out of your visit: you can take the Morning or the Afternoon tour, the Royal Route or the Military March. If you get hungry or feel like getting a nice cup of tea, the Redcoat Café has lighter snacks while The Tea Rooms offers a more elegant surrounding for your refreshments. And what better way to finish your time in the castle than to pop in to one of the various gift shops and surprise yourself with some traditional Scottish culinary items or a lovely tartan scarf.

What's On @ Edinburgh Castle

Afternoon Tea Experience

Afternoon Tea Experience

6 Aug 2025 - 3 Jul 2027

Indulge yourself or treat a loved one to an afternoon tea experience, which also includes admission to the castle. Our Tea Room is located in the heart of the castle, Crown Square. The walls have been painted a rich Dutch blue, embellished with touches of copper/brass, vintage mirrors and botanical foliage to keep things feeling fresh, modern but still with a rugged Scottish ambience. The perfect setting to relax and enjoy afternoon tea. We recommend visiting the castle before your afternoon tea, booking a slot no later than 1.30pm. You can arrive at any time during your 30 minute arrival timeslot, but please ensure you allow enough time to reach the Queen Anne Building for your Afternoon Tea reservation time. Pre-booking required. Find out more and book Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least 48 hours in advance: +44 (0)7469 350 247 or [email protected] (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).
Skipinnish

Skipinnish

27 Sept 2025 - 27 Sept 2025

Skipinnish are without a doubt one of Scotland’s most exciting exports. Riding an ever-growing wave of popularity, the band has gone from strength to strength since the launch of their album, The Seventh Wave, in 2017. With hit after hit of self penned songs and a strong mix of powerful bagpipe, fiddle and accordion led tune sets, they encompass the very best of traditional and contemporary Celtic music and their energetic live shows continue to captivate audiences all over the UK and Europe.
Ludovico Einaudi

Ludovico Einaudi

28 Apr 2026 - 4 May 2026

Ludovico Einaudi is an Italian pianist and film score composer playing new age and neoclassical music. Trained at the Conservatorio Verdi in Milan, Einaudi began his career as a classical composer, later incorporating other styles and genres such as pop, rock, folk, and world music.
Outlander Locations Tour

Outlander Locations Tour

8 Aug 2025 - 28 Sept 2025

Calling all Outlander fans! Prepare to be blown away by this incredible location tour in Scotland. Join us as we embark on an exhilarating adventure, guided by a knowledgeable local, to iconic spots featured in the beloved TV series. Brace yourself for mind-blowing experiences at Midhope Castle, Doune Castle, Culross, Falkland, and Blackness Castle, where the magic comes alive. Let yourself be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes and enchanting charm of Scotland. Don't wait any longer - book your spot now and prepare to step right into your most cherished scenes!
Edinburgh Beer Tour

Edinburgh Beer Tour

1 Sept 2025 - 28 Sept 2025

Discover the enchanting history and vibrant beer culture of Edinburgh's Old Town with ScotBeer Tours. Perfect for couples, friends, and anyone seeking a unique experience, this guided tour weaves together captivating stories of the city's past and exceptional local brews. Stroll the cobbled streets as knowledgeable guides reveal fascinating tales and take you to three charming pubs. Delight in a diverse selection of local beers, including adventurous tastings that expand your palate and introduce you to new favourites. Experience the magic of Edinburgh's Old Town through its rich beer heritage. Get your tickets now for  Edinburgh Beer Tour!
The Royal Edinburgh

The Royal Edinburgh

5 Aug 2025 - 27 Sept 2025

Experience the pure magic of Edinburgh with the incredible Royal Edinburgh ticket! Unveil the captivating tales of Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse Palace, both steeped in majestic history. Get ready to be awestruck as you soar across the city on guided bus tours, taking in the jaw-dropping views at every turn, and don't forget to visit to the legendary Royal Yacht Britannia. With its boundless travel and lightning-fast entry, this is the perfect option to immerse yourself in the mesmerising wonders of Edinburgh. Get your tickets for The Royal Edinburgh in Edinburgh!
Historical Walking Tour Edinburgh

Historical Walking Tour Edinburgh

6 Aug 2025 - 28 Sept 2025

Experience the awe-inspiring city of Edinburgh on this 3-hour walking tour! Delve into the enthralling tales that have shaped this ancient city and visit iconic landmarks such as St. Giles Cathedral and the renowned Royal Mile. Let the medieval spirit of Edinburgh engulf your senses as your guide weaves spellbinding stories that will transport you to another era. You'll even step foot in the very coffee shop where the wizarding world of Harry Potter was brought to life! Get your tickets for the Historical Walking Tour in Edinburgh!
The Ghost Bus Tour Edinburgh

The Ghost Bus Tour Edinburgh

5 Aug 2025 - 27 Sept 2025

Step aboard the spine-chilling Ghost Bus and brace yourself for a hair-raising adventure through Edinburgh's dark past! Get ready to be spooked as the knowledgeable conductor, amidst tales of murder, witch hunts, torture, and phantoms, reveals the city's chilling secrets. Get your tickets now for The Ghost Bus Tour Edinburgh!
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Edinburgh

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Edinburgh

5 Aug 2025 - 29 Sept 2025

Tour duration: 60 minutes Experience the incredible charm of Edinburgh like never before! Dive into a thrilling escapade with unlimited access to three magnificent sightseeing bus tours! Prepare to be spellbound by breathtaking landmarks such as the majestic Edinburgh Castle, the regal Holyroodhouse Palace, and the legendary Royal Yacht Britannia. Opt for the 'Grand 48' and immerse yourself in 48 hours of boundless exploration, or seize the opportunity of a lifetime with the 'Grand 48. ' which includes a sensational boat tour on the awe-inspiring Firth of Forth! Don't dare to miss out on this exhilarating adventure of a lifetime! Get your tickets now for thisHop-on Hop-off Bus Edinburgh! Explore Edinburgh's top attractions: take advantage of unlimited access to three sightseeing bus tours. Witness the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and other iconic landmarks. Upgrade to the 'Grand 48. ' for an enchanting boat tour on the beautiful Firth of Forth. Unlimited travel for your choice of 24 or 48 hours. If selected: boat cruise on the Firth of Forth (April - November) and timings. Meeting point:North side of St. Andrew Square Every bus leaves from St. Andrew Square. The optimal time to visit is during the day. Children 4 and under access free. Use the'Edinburgh by Bus' app for live bus times, maps, directions, and more after purchase. All ticket sales are final and cannot be refunded, exchanged, or otherwise modified. Click here to check out the T&Cs.
Marti Pellow - Pellow Talk: The Lost Chapter
Former Wet Wet Wet frontman turned hugely successful solo artist and stage performer Born Mark McLachlan in Clydebank in 1965, Marti Pellow formed Wet Wet Wet when he was only 17. The band went on to score huge hits in the UK and further afield with Wishing I Was Lucky, Goodnight Girl, A Little Help From My Friends, Sweet Little Mystery and more. However, it was their cover of The Troggs Love Is All Around, taken from the soundtrack to Four Weddings And A Funeral, that would etch their names into the record books, staying at No.1 for 15 weeks and selling almost two million copies.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

6 Aug 2025 - 23 Aug 2025

This unique event draws crowds and performers from all over the world, with massed pipes and drums, military bands, display teams and dancers. The 2025 event will mark 75 years of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with the theme 'The Heroes Who Made Us'.
Edinburgh Castle BSL Days

Edinburgh Castle BSL Days

8 Aug 2025 - 16 Aug 2025

Explore Edinburgh Castle and the city's Deaf history with Deaf tour guide John Hay, whose BSL tour will be translated into English by interpreter Linda Duncan.
Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery

Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery

21 Nov 2025 - 4 Jan 2026

Prepare to see Edinburgh Castle transform this festive season as Castle of Light returns for a fourth fantastic year. Delve into “Magic and Mystery”, as a tapestry of all-new projections dances across the walls. Let immersive illuminations and enchanting installations guide you through the castle grounds in a sea of twinkling lights and colourful displays. Enjoy spending time with friends and family as you experience unmissable moments, extraordinary lighting displays, and discover some mysteries along the way. Conjure a charming start to your festivities with a magical night at the castle! Tickets must be booked in advance. The event takes place outdoors and there is no visitor access to interior areas of the castle, excluding an indoor catering area. Early Bird Tickets are available until midnight on 30 September, use discount code COLSM23 at checkout. Frequently asked questions During the course of public events we may take photographs for use on our website or other promotional material. This would be done under the lawful basis of legitimate interests. We will not take photographs of individual children without your consent. If you have any questions about this or do not wish to be photographed please speak to the photographer, or see our privacy notice for more information about how we manage your data and your rights. You can also contact our Data Protection officer at [email protected]

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