The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?
What makes it 36% Baby-Friendly: Babies may sit free on a lap, but no pram storage, no dedicated baby-change or nursing area, late-night noise and fireworks can distress infants, so only hardy families should attempt.
Positives:
- Free Baby Entry: Babies under 3 sit free on an adult’s lap without a ticket.
- On-site Water Stations: Refill bottles for free at multiple points in the arena.
Challenges:
- High Noise Levels: Drums and fireworks may distress very young babies despite headphones.
- Late Show Time: Main performance starts after dusk, which may affect your baby’s sleep schedule.
- No Stroller Storage: You must fold and keep a small pram with you through queues and seating.
What is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?
- An annual outdoor display of massed military bands, pipers and drummers on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle
- A fusion of ceremonial drilling, musical performance and light projection that highlights British military tradition, Scottish cultural history and international participation
- A central component of the Edinburgh Festival held each August against the historic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle with coordinated fireworks and sound design
What is so special about The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for with baby?
- Free 15–20 minute family-friendly preview at Ross Bandstand.
- Lap seating for babies under 3 with no ticket required.
- On-site changing rooms and water refill stations.
- Bring noise protection and dress in layers for August weather.
- Select aisle seats and arrive early for easy handling of a baby.
Note: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is 36% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Edinburgh for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Time to catch the free preview, main show and use facilities without rushing or overwhelming your baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Taste of the Tattoo:
Free 15–20 minute highlights at Ross Bandstand.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to grab a spot and spread a small blanket for your baby.
Main Castle Esplanade Show:
90 minutes of pipe bands, dancers and fireworks under Edinburgh Castle.
Tip: Sit near an aisle in Sections 12–17 for easy exit. Bring noise-reducing headphones for your baby.
Use Baby-Friendly Facilities:
Water stations, changing rooms and accessible toilets on site.
Tip: Locate the Changing Places room at the main entrance before the show starts.
When is the best time to visit The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
August evenings can be cool and wet. Dress your baby in layers, pack a light rain poncho and a warm hat.
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Reviews of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (Edinburgh)
Robert Parfitt
This was a excellent event very well managed and something we have been looking forward to for years and can definitely say it was not a let down. Outstanding tbh the staff was excellent as well. Really recommend 👌
Adrienne DC
WOW…..attended a spectacular show at the 75th Annual Military Tattoo which runs for 3 weeks on the month of August. It is a phenominal show that brings together the best of the British Military and international performances from a global the world. The Pyrotechnic special effects were amazing and the performers were top notch. This show also had the US Military performing. The bagpipers were ou...
Alicia Macdonald Khamis
First time attending and it was amazing! Love me some bagpipes! And also, USA represented well with the gun squad, so exciting!
Marco Menzhausen
Absolutely unforgettable experience. We stood in the VIP area with a perfect view of the show—breathtaking from start to finish. The dinner beforehand was amazing, with excellent service and delicious food. Everything was well-organized and smooth. I highly recommend this to anyone visiting Scotland—it’s a must-see. The combination of atmosphere, music, and performance made it a night to remember.
Venkat Varada
Attending the Royal Military Tattoo Thursday 31st July 2025 at Edinburgh Castle was nothing short of extraordinary. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the historic castle, the entire evening was a powerful blend of precision, pageantry, and pure emotion. Entry was smooth with pre-booked tickets, fast track entry for prime tickets. Innis and gunn, Land Rover Pentland and few more sponsors. (...
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult show tickets | GBP 94 |
| Snacks and drinks | GBP 10 |
| Rain poncho | GBP 5 |
| Baby ear protection | GBP 15 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 124 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
- Buy Premier Seating: Padded seats with fast-track entry make it easier to manage your baby.
- Plan a Quick Exit: Stand near an aisle to leave fast when your baby needs feeding or changing.
- Check Facilities Ahead: Call the Tattoo Office to confirm pram policy or additional baby needs.
Map of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Address: The Tattoo Office, 1-3 Cockburn St, Edinburgh EH1 1QB, UK
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About The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 131 225 118810 BEST nearby Activities
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