Our top five reasons to experience the Edinburgh Tattoo
Taking place every August on Edinburgh Castle's magnificent esplanade, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo promises a spectacular show of tradition, skill and pageantry - and it's set to be even more special in 2025.
Welcoming hundreds of thousands of spectators and performers from across the globe every year, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of the undeniable highlights of the British events calendar. With drama, fanfares and enchanting light displays under the open skies, the Tattoo brings Scotland’s royal capital to life in a show like no other.
As the Tattoo gears up to celebrate its 75th anniversary, showcasing the 'The Heroes Who Made Us', what better time to soak up the pomp and excitement of this breath-taking spectacle than now? Our team loves celebrating the best of British culture and are excited to introduce even more guests to this unmissable event in August. With that in mind, here are five reasons you should make the time for the Tattoo this year.
A spectacular setting
Constructed during the 11th century, Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in all of Europe. Perched over the city of Edinburgh, on volcanic rock, the castle has seen much change over the years, as well as serving as a prison, royal residence, garrison, and fortress. The castle is also the headquarters for the oldest surviving cavalry of the line in the British Army, the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
As you might expect, witnessing the craftsmanship that goes into the Tattoo against the backdrop of such a historic building, is an experience like no other. Throughout the Tattoo, enchanting light displays are projected on the ancient castle walls, making the experience even more memorable.
Time-honoured tradition
You might be curious about the origins of the word ‘tattoo’, considering we mostly associate it with permanent skin ink. The word originated from the Dutch phrase ‘doe den tap toe’, which means 'turn off the taps'. During the 17th century, the phrase was a call that came when bars were to close for the night, so that the soldiers would be sent home. The British Army took on the practice, and the regiment's drum corps would play it each night.
The sights of the Scottish capital
While Scotland's royal capital is well worth a visit in its own right, heading to the Tattoo in August offers a unmissable opportunity to pair your visit with a stop at Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest cultural arts festival. Whether you're strolling the busy Royal Mile, seeing a show, or setting off on an escorted whiskey tour, you will certainly fall under Edinburgh’s spell.
The international aspect
Every year, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo welcomes performers from all around the globe. Having first launched a landmark 75 years ago, the Tattoo has welcomed over 50 countries to participate in the spectacular event. As you can imagine, this also means a large portion of the crowd - around 35% - have also travelled from far and wide to experience the Tattoo. Attending the Tattoo is not just a celebration of a rich, military tradition, but a melting pot of international cultures.
The charitable causes behind the Tattoo
Aside from celebrating tradition and culture, the Tattoo has another mission, too. “The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo's charitable purposes are at the heart of everything we do,” the Tattoo said, “we're extremely proud to support a number of military charities.” In 2019, the not-for-profit organisation allocated £1 million of its profits to 13 UK-based military charities and arts groups. It supports the RAF Benevolent Fund, the Army Benevolent Fund, the Soldiers Charity, and several others which work to aid people facing poverty, mental illness, unemployment, or disability.
Take in the Tattoo with Newmarket Holidays
Whether you've seen this memorable show before, or are new to the Tattoo, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call to get the ball rolling on your unforgettable Edinburgh escape. For more information, and the full day-by-day itinerary, check out our dedicated tour page.
