Legacy Blog
Events in Edinburgh in Summer 2018
There’s no doubt that ‘summer’ in Scotland can be a bit hit and miss at times. Every Scot worth their tartan will remember numerous rain-ruined barbeques and hurriedly postponed trips to the beach. However, despite the changeable Scottish weather, Edinburgh is certainly THE place to be this summer.
An ever changing city, the capital is dressed in delightful German markets come Christmas Time, indulging in farmer’s markets during spring and dazzling the world with the biggest International Festival in the world in August. Summer in Edinburgh is truly an experience to remember, and we hope to give you a little insight to some of the fun, fascinating and exciting events coming your way this year.
Edinburgh Festival
Of course, we have to mention the Festival. You know the one - the Edinburgh International Festival. Edinburgh becomes a cacophony of music, comedy, art, drama and so much more during the month of August. It’s world renowned for a reason, and you’d be a fool not to at least glance at a festival programme if you’re heading down our way this August. There truly is something for everyone - from sugar-high kids to off-duty businessmen. We can assure you that you’ll never be bored until the nights start to draw in and frost settles on the castle.
Edinburgh Art Festival
For art aficionados and those looking to gulp down a bit of good old fashioned culture, the Edinburgh Art Festival runs from 26th of July - 26th of August, featuring pop-up exhibitions and events and specially programmed evening gallery tours. Over the past ten years the festival has grown to become the UK’s largest annual festival of visual art and seeks to engage new audiences with the visual arts. Check out the Edinburgh Art Festival’s website for up to date information about the myriad of events they have planned for this season’s programme.
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Next on our whistle-stop tour of upcoming Edinburgh events is the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Tickets are on sale now, and we highly recommend you check this one out. Set in a delightful tented village in Edinburgh City Centre, the book festival welcomes more than 800 authors every year, including Nobel and Booker prize-winners. Events include seminars, readings and signings and some of literature's big names who have appeared in the past include Malorie Blackman, Sophie Kinsella, Michael Morpurgo and Ian Rankin. Entry to the gardens is free, and even if you’re not a book lover, the on site cafes await to offer you a variety of fair-trade hot and cold snacks. If that wasn’t enough for you, there’s also a fully licensed bar, so you won’t have to miss out on any of the prime Pimms season!
Pitt Street Market
If you’ve worked up an appetite after all that culture, we suggest you stop by the Pitt Street Market. Located in Leith, one of Edinburgh’s most characterful areas, this all day event promises some of the best street food traders in Scotland. Familiar faces normally include Babu Bombay Street Kitchen and Umami Spice Girl Ltd. We can promise that you’ll definitely find something to tickle your taste buds. Check out The Pitt’s Facebook page for more info that’s sure to get your tummy rumbling!
Holyrood House Events
Everyone needs a good walk to burn off all that yummy food, so we’d suggest exploring Holyrood House, a stunning building which is a must-see any time of the year. Holyrood hosts a number of activities throughout the summer months. These include exclusive evening tours, which from 2nd - 30th August allow guests to go 'behind the ropes' in areas of the house which are normally closed off to the public.
Dynamic Earth
Finally, something for the little ones. Dynamic Earth is one of Scotland’s most fascinating attractions - a splendid mix of science, exploration and good old fashioned fun, and their summer programme promises to be more of the same. Featuring a wide range of activities for kids, their programme includes the chance to team up with the Holyrood Park Ranger and learn about life under the water in the park's ponds.
Remember, if you haven't booked your Festival Accommodation, view our self catering options to find a luxury apartment during your time here (often at a cheaper rate than a hotel).
