FESTIVAL’S FRINGE ON TOP
Edinburgh is a place to be at any time but in August the city really comes alive
THE centrepiece of Scotland in August is Edinburgh, with its International Festival and Fringe. With centuries of history, striking architecture and fine food, the city is a top destination throughout the year, but during festival season it really comes alive. Throughout the summer months, a wave of colour, excitement and elaborate acts graces the streets, parks, nooks and crannies of Edinburgh during the world-famous summer festivals.
Seven spectacular festivals serve up the most incredible smorgasbord of culture that fills the city’s creative spaces and venues with mesmerising and eclectic acts of all genres.
They comprise the Edinburgh International Film Festival, the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival, the Edinburgh Art Festival, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Edinburgh International Book Festival – all of which offer fantastic experiences for the whole family to enjoy.
Attend star-studded film premieres; listen to top-class musicians fill the air with their toe-tapping tunes; join in with energetic street acts; laugh to your heart’s content at hilarious comedy shows; take little ones along to children’s shows; listen to author readings – and much more.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo truly is a night to remember. This annual display of music, dance and military pageantry on the stunning esplanade of Edinburgh Castle promises to showcase a mind-blowing performance of military precision and expertise.
Enjoy stirring performances from the Massed Pipes and Drums and the Massed Military Bands that play the inspiring tunes of Scotland’s famed regiments, part of almost 1,000 musicians, pipers, drummers, singers and dancers strutting their stuff throughout the season.
Explore our Edinburgh Festivals 2018 eBook for more ideas, inspiration and things to explore across the city. ebooks.visitscotland.com/ edinburgh-festivals-guide
MIDLOTHIAN AND SCOTTISH BORDERS
LookIng for brilliant things to do within easy reach of Edinburgh and Central Scotland?
Banish the summer holiday boredom in Midlothian and the Scottish Borders, where you’ll find incredible attractions and activities that the whole family will love.
Some can be visited on the Borders Railway, Scotland’s newest line. These are fabulous summer spots, so get outdoors and enjoy some well-earned family fun.
In Midlothian, uncover the history of Rosslyn Chapel on fascinating educational guided tours, talks and engaging activities for children, or head to the enchanting Roslin glen for a breath of fresh air in gorgeous natural surroundings.
Plan an afternoon at Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World in Lasswade to get in touch with your wild side and explore a whole other realm of exotic species and creepy crawlies – and make sure you take part in the hands-on demonstrations.
Even in summer, you don’t need snow to experience winter sports. Midlothian Snowsports Centre at Hillend has artificial slopes, so you can try skiing and snowboarding at any time of year – and kids will love the tubing area.
or plan a family day out to Ryze Trampoline Centre in Dalkeith for endless hours of fun with foam pits, dodgeball and more.
Further south, the Scottish Borders boasts dozens of historic treasures and awesome attractions to explore. Choose from the abbeys of Jedburgh, Melrose, Dryburgh or kelso for a trip back in time to discover a more turbulent age – or get involved in Born in the Borders activities, such as fishing, camping,
a mini-beast Safari, osprey cameras and more.
Head to a 7stanes centre in the forests of Glentress and Innerleithen for an adrenaline-filled mountain biking day out. You’ll find a variety of trail levels to cater for all abilities, plus bike hire on site.
Plan a visit to Midlothian and the Scottish Borders and you’ll find even more excitement. There’s plenty to choose from – challenge your friends and family to a tactical combat mission, swing through the treetops high above the ground or explore ancient castles and monuments.
Head over to our YouTube Channel to watch our new Game On video – or read our blog for more ideas and places to visit this summer with the family.