About this Event
First performed in 1950, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has become one of the world’s greatest immersive events and a highlight of Edinburgh’s August festival season. The 2027 show, The Same Heart Beat, will celebrate the unifying and universal bond of music, with drumming taking centre stage. Developed by Creative Director Alan Lane, it will feature some of the finest military acts from around the world alongside the best of Scottish and British talent, with the Royal Navy at its core.
Date & Time
6 – 28 August 2027 — The 2027 show, The Same Heart Beat, takes place Friday 6 to Saturday 28 August 2027. Performances traditionally start at 9:30 pm on weeknights, with two shows on Saturdays, and no performance on Sundays, with exact 2027 timings confirmed at booking.
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Venue & Location
The show takes place on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, United Kingdom, beneath the floodlit walls of Edinburgh Castle. The Tattoo Office is at 1-3 Cockburn Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1QB, and the venue is reached on foot via the Royal Mile, with access via Johnston Terrace.
Staying overnight?
Check the nearest hotel near the venue.
What to Expect
- Visitors can enjoy exciting music shows by military musicians. Drumming will be a big part of the 2027 show. There will also be traditional pipe music and group performances.
- The Royal Marines will play an important part in the show. Visitors can enjoy music, dance, colourful uniforms, and traditions from different countries.
- There will also be Highland dancing and traditional Scottish clothes. Beautiful lights, lasers, and large-screen shows will make the performances even more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to help you plan your visit.
When is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2027?
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2027 will run from 6 to 28 August 2027. The 2027 show is called The Same Heart Beat and tickets are already on sale via the official website.
Where is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo held?
It is held on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town at the top of the Royal Mile. The Castle provides a dramatic floodlit backdrop, and the venue is walkable from Edinburgh Waverley station, Princes Street, and the Royal Mile.
What time does The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo start?
Performances traditionally start at 9:30 pm on Monday to Friday, with two shows on Saturdays at 6:15 pm and 9:30 pm, and no performance on Sundays. Each show lasts around 100 minutes, but you should check your ticket and the official site for the exact start time on your date.
How do I buy tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2027?
Tickets for 2027 are on sale now and can be booked online at edintattoo.co.uk or by calling the Tattoo Box Office on +44 (0) 131 225 1188. The Tattoo regularly attracts more than 200,000 visitors each August and popular dates sell out, so booking early is strongly recommended.
Is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo suitable for families and first-time visitors?
Yes, it is one of Edinburgh’s most popular family events, with a spectacular mix of music, dance, drill, and fireworks that appeals to all ages. First-time visitors should arrive early, dress warmly for an outdoor evening show, allow time for security and queuing from Johnston Terrace, and combine the Tattoo with a daytime visit to Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh’s other August festivals.
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