Every year, for the month of August, the esplanade at Edinburgh Castle, is transformed into a mega stadium, seating approximately 8800 people, and becomes home to the Royal Military Tattoo . With up to two performances a day across the month, around 220,000 are privileged to watch this extravaganza.

 

 

Having enjoyed the August Bank Holiday broadcasts over many years, a visit in person seemed to be an essential part of the retirement wish list and 2025, became the year to achieve it.👏👏👏👏

On a previous visit to Edinburgh, we had seen a side of the Castle, where some of the Tattoo seating overhangs. Im sure it is incredibly safe and meets all health an safety regulations, BUT we decided it would be better for our nerves to sit on the other side of the arena

The planning for our trip began in September 2024, when my brother started researching accommodation for our party of 7-8. I researched flight prices and schedules and also the cost and position of Tattoo seat tickets. We clarified our group number and dates of travel, then with a couple of clicks we were booked and money paid.

It was happening.

From October to the end of July seemed a long way off, but in the blink of an eye, there we were in the centre of the esplanade surrounded by Scottish dancers and guards in highland uniform. They were in high demand to have photos taken with, but they continued to smile.

As we climbed the steep steps to our seats, the atmosphere was electric. Happy voices reverberating around the arena. The flashes from cameras twinkling against the dimming evening light.

 

Precisely on time, our storyteller walked through the castle gate and began to lead us through the evening. 2025 was the 75th Anniversary of the Tattoo and he was a new addition to this years celebrations. Playing the character of a ghostly lone piper from the 1950’s, he entered the stage in between various bands, dancers and drumming groups, transporting us through the history of the Tattoo. Along the way we also celebrated 900 years of Edinburgh as a City, together with the Heroes from across the armed forces and NHS, both professional and civilian who have served our United Kingdom through war and peace time.

During our two hour journey, we were entertained by military bands, marching in complete unison, whilst playing without missing a note. A Ukranian dance group, moved swiftly across the floor performing their unique national dance, wearing of course their national costume. The sound of bagpipes filled the air and Scottish dancers leapt into the arena. Often on their toes, linking arms, pirouetting, weaving in between each other as they twirled in front of us. The crowd enraptured by their performance.

As the castle commenced its own performance, an animated light show dancing across its walls to the side of us, and a marine band serenaded us, it was difficult to know in which direction to look.

The storyteller continued his tale, in between and amongst the performers, but disappeared for safety as the US Honor Guard Drill Team entered the stage. We were hypnotised by their accuracy as they tossed their guns into the air, spinning them and catching again. Their timing was perfection. Gasps followed as they tossed their rifles, spinning through the air to their comrades. Then they formed a guard of honour for their commander to walk through and we were aghast as they tossed their weapons across him whilst he walked. The crowd were so quiet until he completed the line and rapturous applause followed.

Probably the most anticipated band of the evening was The Top-Secret Drum Corps from Switzerland. Oh my goodness, their unique style of drumming and marching, in absolute unison is awe inspiring. Every movement, from head turning, to marching, to the awesome drum routines is just mesmerising. They drum at a much faster pace than usual drummers, skillfully also beating their neighbours drums. Marching so close together they appear to be glued together. There is the inevitable dropping of drumsticks, but with a handy collection stored at their side, a new one can be grabbed almost without missing a beat. Proudly carrying their national flag, they entered their finale. In the darkness, their drumsticks were illuminated which made the speed of their routines even more apparent. Absolutely amazing.

Just as we thought it couldn’t get any better, a choir standing on the steps around the arena, were lit up against the night sky, as they serenaded us and then the entire ensemble started to appear through the castle gate, from the sidings and began to march proudly as one. It was breathtaking and brought tears to the eyes.

Throughout the entire evening the castle had quietly provided a backdrop of animation and colour. Now as the 2025 Tattoo is brought to a close the haunting lament of the Lone Piper stood high atop its ramparts as fireworks crackled and drones floated high over head forming wonderful memorials to the 75the anniversary and to the heroes we had celebrated through the evening.

The entire Tattoo cast took there bows before the massed pipes drums led us in the traditional march out of the castle and through some of the local streets, a rehearsal of which we had watched a couple of days before.

 

 

 

 

 

Sometimes I wonder if watching something in person gives you the same perspective as watching on the tv. If you are of the same mind in respect of the tattoo, don’t hesitate, book that ticket & book that flight. 

What a magical evening of music, tradition and celebration. They are memories that I will treasure forever.