This week sees the start of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo (5th Aug 2011) which is definitely one of the major highlights of any coach holidays to Scotland. The Tattoo is an extremely popular event with tickets selling out almost as soon as they go on sale so if you’re one of the lucky ones, you’re in for a military treat this year. With this in mind, we thought we’d take a little look into the Edinburgh Tattoo and provide you with some little known facts about the event as well as some ‘Must-sees’ and ‘Must-dos’ when at the Tattoo – a little taster if you like, giving you an idea of what to expect without giving the game away!
Must-sees, dos & facts about the Tattoo
• This year’s event will take place at the new multi-million pound arena on the Castle Esplanade where the new facility will play host to a glittering array of talent including one or two surprises
• When dusk falls, follow the crowds from Castlehill to Lawnmarket, around the cathedral church of St Giles to the narrow streets of Royal Mile before clambering to Castle Esplanade
• Chat to the people around you and perhaps make new friends as you walk to the Esplanade for an evening of military splendour
• Performers from across four continents as far as South America will be taking part in the 2011 Edinburgh Military Tattoo
• Don’t miss out on performances from the Massed Bands of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines, Highland Dancing, the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the world-famous Massed Pipes and Drums
• This year’s tattoo will have an international flavour with displays by the Dutch Mounted Bicycle Band
• The evenings will close with the traditional and poignant performance by the Lone Piper high up on the Castle Ramparts
• It’s all open-air so do wear warm clothing and perhaps take a brolly just in case – you never know what the British summertime may bring
• Do join in with the crowds as you sing the ‘Evening Hymn’ and ‘Auld Lang Syne’
• Do take your camera with you so can take some amazing pictures to remember your Tattoo experience and show friends/family back home
Things to do in Edinburgh
• When in Edinburgh, maybe combine the Tattoo with a walking tour to take in the sights that this fine city offers from the mighty Edinburgh Castle to the amazing shopping opportunities in Princes Street, not forgetting the decadent State Rooms in Holyroodhouse
• Take in the local scenery by combining your Edinburgh Tattoo coach trips with a tour of the Lochs and Glens, maybe take in a visit to see the Royal Yacht Britannia
• Climb a volcano in an urban park. No other city has an extinct volcano so make sure you take time out to climb to Arthur’s Seat – the tallest of Edinburgh’s seven hills
• Sort out your blends from your malts with a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience
• Sample some Scottish favourites such as Haggis, Venison and Stovies
• Explore the Royal Botanic Garden and take a walk on the Chinese hillside that contains the largest collection of wild specimens outside of China itself
• Dine out in one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants that call Edinburgh their home
Have you been to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo? What did you think of it? Would you recommend it? Get in touch with us as we’d love to hear from you!