Planning to attend the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and wondering what to expect? As someone who’s been there, let me share some insights to help you make the most of this spectacular Scottish event. Many people are curious about the exclusive Behind the Scenes tour, the show’s length, and practicalities like getting back to your accommodation afterwards. Let’s dive into these common questions to ensure your Scottish Tattoo experience is truly unforgettable.
Unlocking the Behind the Scenes Tour
The Behind the Scenes tour at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a highly sought-after experience, offering a unique glimpse into the magic behind this world-renowned performance. However, accessing information about this tour isn’t straightforward on the official website. It’s primarily mentioned within the Friends of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo membership benefits. Joining the Friends organization can give you early access to ticket sales and, crucially, the opportunity to book a place on this exclusive tour.
Keep in mind that the Behind the Scenes tour is incredibly limited. With approximately 50,000 people attending the Tattoo each week, only a very small group, around 20 individuals, get to participate in each tour. If you’re hoping to experience the backstage magic during your visit, especially if it’s for the current year, your best bet is to contact the ticket office directly. Inquire about the availability of spots on the tour – it’s a long shot, but sometimes there might be openings due to cancellations or other unforeseen circumstances. Planning well in advance for future shows and considering a Friends membership significantly increases your chances of participating in this special Scottish tattoo highlight.
Understanding the Show’s Duration
If you’re wondering about the length of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance, you can expect a captivating show lasting approximately two hours. A great way to get a feel for the show’s structure and content is to explore online video platforms like YouTube. You can often find full recordings of past performances, such as the 2013 and 2014 shows. Watching these recordings beforehand not only gives you an idea of the show’s duration but also provides a preview of the incredible displays of music, precision marching, and cultural performances you’ll witness live at Edinburgh Castle. This can help you anticipate the evening’s schedule and plan accordingly for dinner or transportation after the event.
Fireworks, Weather, and Evening Performances
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo often features a breathtaking fireworks display, especially during the Saturday performances, intended as an extended spectacle. However, like any outdoor event in Scotland, the weather can be unpredictable. Unfortunately, Scottish weather can sometimes interfere with even the best-laid plans. During one Saturday performance, the fireworks show had to be cancelled after the initial launch due to embers blowing into the spectator area. While the Friday 9:00 PM show included a lovely fireworks display, the anticipated extended show on Saturday was sadly missed due to these weather-related safety concerns. Attending an earlier performance in the week or being aware that the fireworks are weather-dependent is wise when planning your Scottish tattoo experience, especially if the fireworks are a key highlight for you.
Planning Your Return Journey After the Show
For those attending the later 10:30 PM Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance, especially on Saturdays, it’s crucial to plan your journey back to your hotel in advance. If your accommodation is within reasonable walking distance of Edinburgh Castle, walking might be a viable and enjoyable option, especially given the atmosphere after the show. However, public transportation schedules can be limited late at night. Bus services, for example, may stop running before the show concludes. Taxis can also be difficult to find in the city center immediately after the Tattoo due to the large crowds dispersing.
During one visit, staying at Pollock Hall dorm at the University of Edinburgh, the usual bus route to the Royal Mile area was unavailable after the late show. Finding a taxi proved impossible, leading to a half-hour walk back to the dorm. While the walk felt safe and even included a stop at a pie shop for a late supper, pre-planning your transportation, checking bus schedules, or arranging for a pre-booked taxi or ride-sharing service is highly recommended, particularly if your accommodation is further from Edinburgh Castle. Considering these practicalities will ensure a smooth and stress-free end to your Scottish tattoo evening.
