All you need to know about the Edinburgh Royal Highland Show 2026: when is it, how to get there, what's new?

This annual four-day celebration of Scotland’s best in food, farming and rural life has been going strong for over 200 years, with thousands attending the large festival in the shadows of Edinburgh Airport every year.

When and where is it on?

The Royal Highland Show (RHS) takes place from Thursday-Sunday, June 18-21. The RHS takes place at the Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston, Newbridge, which is around seven miles from Edinburgh’s city centre. The Showground will be open from 7am-7pm Thursday-Saturday and 7am-6pm on Sunday.

How to get here

The Royal Highland Show is easily accessible from Edinburgh City Centre and from further afield across the country.

It’s easy to jump on the tram to the RHS – alight at the Ingliston Park & Ride stop and remember to wear comfy shoes as there’s a 15-minute walk to the south entrance.

Lothian Buses service 98 goes between Edinburgh City Centre and the Royal Highland Show East Entrance. While Lothian Buses service 97 goes between Edinburgh Park Station, Edinburgh Gateway Station, and the Royal Highland Show East Entrance.

There is a bus stop at the top of Ingliston Road, outside the South Entrance that services the following buses – Citylink - 900, McGill's Scotland East – 18, 20, 63, X24, X25, X38, Stagecoach – 747, Lothian Buses - X18.

What can I expect to see and do?

The Grand Parade is hugely popular and the Grandstand fills up quickly in the afternoons of Saturday and Sunday. Prize-winning cattle can be seen gracefully winding their way across the Main Ring.

Scotland's Larder is a must-see destination for all Foodies and a great place to meet local producers, taste the best of Scottish produce and discover artisan offerings from across the UK.

From Showjumping, Pony Club Games, Private Driving, and more, there’s never a dull moment during the Equine Competitions at the Show.

You can visit the best of the best in one of the UK's biggest displays of agricultural machinery and innovative technology.

Situated in Scotland's Larder, the Food for Thought Theatre gives you the chance to watch some of the best chefs, food writers, and producers from around the country prepare delicious dishes and discuss all things gastro, giving you the opportunity to ask them any burning questions you have.

Witness astounding skill and strength as record breaking pole climbers brave the dizzying heights in the Forestry Arena. As well as amazing bike displays, axe throwing and forestry demonstrations.

Looking for something special to spruce up your home? Make sure to make time to browse the Home & Gift Hall located on 13th Avenue in the Lowland Hall.

Follow the excitement of the Sheep Sheering competition and be amazed at the skill and speed of the sheep shearers.

Set by its very own loch and surrounded by stunning landscaping, the Countryside Area features demonstrations and events showcasing a wide range of country sports and activities, as well as rural skills.

The hottest place (quite literally) at the show is The Forge. Watch as competitors go head to head in the Scottish Open Farriery Championship Horse-shoeing & Shoe-making competitions.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets for each of the four days, as well as for the Reeling and Show Dance events, can still be purchased here.

What’s new this year?

The Reeling comes to Ingliston for the very first time. Taking place on Saturday, June 20 - The Reeling brings a brilliant mix of established trad favourites and exciting contemporary voices to the heart of Show weekend.

21 pictures of Royal Highland Show through the years

What should I wear to the Royal Highland Show?

Think practical and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. The RHS covers over 280 acres and comprises of both indoor and outdoor offerings.

Scotland has been known to experience all four seasons in one day, so it would be advisable to opt for layering clothing and bring a waterproof.

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What is there to do with Children?

The Royal Highland Show is a must for younger visitors and it is free for those aged 15 and under.

The RHET Discovery Centre located on Avenue Q is for children of all ages. There are interactive sessions which children can participate in, as well as lots of things to learn about.

Each area within the Royal Highland Show has a number of attractions including live music, the cookery theatre, Grand Parade and much more. Children can also get close to creatures in the Poultry and Honey marquees, where they can learn the bee dance and make candles.

Many children love tractors, so it's worth visiting the machinery trade stands.