Edinburgh Summer Festivals
Summer is a fantastic time to visit Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh. Did you know that Edinburgh is home to 11 official festivals? Seven of these happen over July and August, so you'll never be at a loss for something fun, exciting and unique to do.
You might be thinking the city must be huge to have so much going on at once, however, it is one of the easiest cities in the world to be able to access everything on foot! A stroll along the Royal Mile, a visit to the New Town or a wander down Leith is all possible. See our 'Getting Here' page to find the best route to Camera Obscura.
If you're visiting in August, you won't be able to miss the famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo terrace stands, which loom high on Edinburgh Castle esplanade. The Royal Military Tattoo is one of Edinburgh's most iconic festivals and has been going for over 70 years. Celebrating the skills and talents of military bands and display teams from throughout the world, over 220,000 people experience the event live every year.
If you are visiting us, or would like to visit us, during the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, from 4 – 27 August 2022, please be aware that access to the attractions on Castlehill, including Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, will be restricted from 5pm Monday to Friday and from 4pm on Saturdays. On Sundays there are no restrictions, yay!
During these dates and times access to Camera Obscura will be from Castlehill (the top section of the Royal Mile, just beyond Lawnmarket) only. Please allow extra time (10-15 minutes) to arrive for your entry slot as the street will be busy and it could take longer to reach us. There will be barriers at the bottom of Castlehill, so look out for the Tattoo ushers and our Camera Obscura team, who will be there to welcome you. Our staff will be by the barriers, on the right hand side of the street, close to ‘The Ensign Ewart’ bar. They will be wearing bright clothes so you can easily spot them. You may be asked to show your Camera Obscura admissions ticket or confirmation email. If you don’t have your ticket or are purchasing one on the door, our staff will be there to help. You will be given access via a special ‘hospitality lane’ on the right hand side of the street, all the way to our door.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your visit please call us on 0131 226 3709. Make sure to book your visit in advance to guarantee your preferred date and entry time. You can do this online here.
If your wondering about all other 11 festivals, you can discover them all at Edinburgh Festival City website.