Venue Description

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an annual event performed on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle in August since 1950. From small beginnings it now celebrates Military music and dance and delivers a 1200 strong cast for 25 performances in August every year. The Tattoo exists to raise surplus funds for Armed Forces charities and the arts and has donated several million pounds to these causes over the years. The 8600 capacity arena is built as a temporary structure each year and becomes a familiar sight on the city skyline from June onwards.

Accessibility

Facilities for the disabled Its ancient, historic setting, on the Esplanade (the Tattoo venue) of Edinburgh Castle is matchless. Located high above the skyline of the oldest and most popular part of the City, perched on an extinct volcano some 135 metres above sea level. The unique setting of the Tattoo may present access difficulties for some, particularly the elderly, people with disabilities and individuals with limited mobility. Those with known heart conditions (Angina, Previous MI, LVF, etc.), respiratory conditions (COPD, Asthma, etc.) and vertigo sufferers may also be affected when trying to access the Esplanade. Castlehill, the old-cobbled approach to the Esplanade, is a steep inclined walk of some 100 metres which, consequently, may prove difficult for some. In addition, there is on average a further 100 metres climb up the gentler slope of the Esplanade, followed by a dozen or so steps to be negotiated to reach the front rows of all the spectator stands in the arena. The rest of the seating in the amphitheatre is accessed by more steps which are quite steeply tiered. People with disabilities are welcome and facilities exist for the siting of wheelchairs at all performances. Facilities also exist for disabled patrons who are not confined to a wheelchair but who have limited mobility.

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: http://www.edintattoo.co.uk/tickets/facilities-for-disabled

Accessible Performances

Audio Description Audio description will be available for the visually impaired at the Preview performance on Thursday 3 August at 9.30pm and on Thursday 10 August 2017 at 9.00pm. Anyone wishing to avail themselves of this facility must reserve equipment at the time of ticket purchase. A limited number of half-price tickets for the Preview performance will be available for sale from 10.00am BST on Monday 24 July 2017 (counter, telephone and internet bookings only). Guide dogs unfortunately cannot be admitted to the grandstand seating areas, however, they can be accommodated in the disabled area at the front of Sections 1-5 and 12-17.

Toilets

The toilet facility on level one have level access. Toilets (4) on the Esplanade under the venue stands, are accessible by ramp access. Ushers are available to assist on request.

Staff

significant event back up with services and medical personnel.

Assistance dog facilities

Assistance dog exercise facilities

Guide dogs unfortunately cannot be admitted to the grandstand seating areas, however, they can be accommodated in the disabled area at the front of Sections 1-5 and 12-17.

Other assistance dog facilities

water bowls available.