Visiting the Highlands of Scotland during the summer months is an exceptional experience. There’s so much to do and see in this glorious, unspoilt region of the country.
From the rugged coastlines and exceptional beaches to the lush valleys, loch and mountains, it’s one region of the country that’s worth discovering, then exploring.
One not-to-be-missed event is the Royal Highland Show which takes place just outside Edinburgh and runs from 22nd June to 25th June.
You’ll get to sample traditional Scottish delights while marvelling at how farming and rural life is so important to the Scottish regions.
There are a ton of things going on to ensure the whole family is well entertained. Plus the event is, naturally, dog friendly.
Superb shopping experiences
You can find the Home & Gift Hall on 13th Avenue which is in the Lowland Hall. There’s lots on offer from well-known brands to new products just waiting to be found.
From superb cashmere, tweed and tartan outdoor wear to traditional Scottish fare, there’s something for everyone!
The Golden Shears Competition
Then there’s the exhilarating sheep shearing competition which will keep you mesmerised by the speed the shearers complete their tasks. The Golden Shears competition is without a doubt compelling viewing!
Lots of things for children to enjoy
There are plenty of events which are a must for children. Plus children under 15 get in for free!
The Discovery Centre is found on Avenue Q which children of all ages love thanks to the interactive activities!
Every area at the Royal Highland Show has attractions that children can get involved in, especially when it comes to getting to know all the animals in the Poultry and Honey Marquees!
A wonderful cross-section of animals and livestock
The Royal Highland Show is a delight for animal lovers. There are sheep, goats, pigs, cattle, donkeys, ponies and horses of every shape and size.
In all, there are thousands of different animals and breeds to discover at the show. All paraded in the ring to show off the best of their breeds in a wonderful setting.
The Grand Parade
The Grand Parade provides a superb look at the country’s best in-breed livestock.
You’ll get to see prize-winning cattle wending their way in the Main Ring with their handlers. It’s literally a sight to behold. Then there’s all the other superb livestock that take part in the many events.
Rural skills and sports
The rural skills and sports on display are exhilarating at the Royal Highland Show. There’s fly fishing, dog displays, falconry as well as terrier racing! All of which makes for a wonderful family day out.
Tasty Traditional Fare
Foodies from around the world come to savour the best of Scotland’s Larder. It’s a great place to taste traditional and artisan offerings sourced throughout the UK.
This year there’s a new offering in the form of a Highland Bothy where you’ll get to enjoy freshly baked produce. Cakes, tea and coffee are the order of the day!
The Horse Shoeing Championship
The Scottish Open Farriery Championship sees farriers competing for the top position. You get to see the master farriers forge their way to winning first prize both in shoeing and shoe making.
The Forge makes for a great setting as master farriers show off their skills. It’s a display that kids of all ages can really enjoy!
Explore the Countryside Area
The Countryside Area showcases a range of county sports and other activities as well as rural skills. There are lots of outdoor pursuits and a choice of marquees which include Honey, Goats and Poultry to visit.
Again, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
Pole Climbing Championships
This heady competition sees competitors break records with their incredible skills. Then there are the axe throwing and forestry demonstrations that take place in the Forestry Arena.
Showjumping
This excellent event sees the horse and rider team up to exhilarate the audience with their showjumping skills. It’s one of the many highlights of the Highland Show’s superb competitions that horse lovers from all over the world come to enjoy.
Food for Thought
This is a foodie’s delight! The best Chefs, Producers and Food Writers from around the UK answer questions, discuss everything food-oriented and craft dishes.
It’s a feast for the senses that’s located in the east of the Showground right next to the Forge.
The Royal Highland Hoolie
The Royal Highland Hoolie showcases Scottish Music at its very best. With a line-up of traditional Scottish and Irish country bands to enjoy and dance to, it makes for great entertainment.
The Hoolie gets underway on Friday and Saturday and tickets for Friday or Saturday are well worth booking in advance.
Booking tickets for the Royal Highland Show
You cannot buy tickets for the Royal Highland Show at the gate. All tickets must be purchased in advance this year to keep things safe.
You can book your tickets to the Royal Highland Show by clicking here.
Need a place to stay?
Then when not book a suite at Dunalastair Hotel Suites. Our 5-star luxury hotel offers everything you need to enjoy your time in the Highlands.
We are situated close to the Royal Highland Show and offer you the perfect location to enjoy the area and all it has to offer. Not just in June but also at other times of the year!
Book now and enjoy everything the Highlands of Scotland has to offer. We can’t wait to welcome you at our 5-star hotel in the Highlands.