Every June, the fields of the Royal Highland Centre near Edinburgh burst into life as farmers, food lovers and families gather for one of Scotland’s biggest annual celebrations. The Royal Highland Show 2026 will run from Thursday 18 June to Sunday 21 June 2026, showcasing the best of Scottish agriculture, food and rural culture. More than an agricultural show, it is a four‑day festival where pedigree cattle parade proudly, world‑class farmers compete for prestigious trophies, artisans sell handcrafted goods and children learn where their food comes from.
As someone who grew up attending the Show every year, I’ve watched it evolve into a national institution that draws over 212,000 visitors and thousands of animals. Planning ahead is essential, tickets sell quickly, accommodation fills fast and the 280‑acre site near Edinburgh Airport can be overwhelming without a plan. This comprehensive guide brings together everything you need to know about the 2026 event: the dates, schedule, travel information, ticket prices, accommodation, top tips, FAQs and even ideas for combining the Show with other Highland adventures. Whether you’re a first‑timer or a veteran, you’ll find insider advice to help you make the most of your visit.
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Royal Highland Show 2026: Dates, Venue & Why It Matters
Dates & location
- When: 18–21 June 2026 (Thursday–Sunday).
- Where: Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, just west of Edinburgh and adjacent to Edinburgh Airport.
- Opening times: Gates typically open at 07:00 and close at 19:00 Thursday through Saturday, with Sunday closing an hour earlier at 18:00. Final timings for 2026 will be confirmed closer to the event.
The Royal Highland Show is organised by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) and has been running for more than two centuries. Its economic impact is estimated at £65 million, making it one of Scotland’s most significant events. The 2026 show will occupy over 280 acres of showground and features more than 6,000 animals competing for 327 trophies with a prize fund of £195,000. It’s not just a farm show, expect gourmet food, live music, crafts, heavy horses, light horses, show jumping, machinery displays and children’s zones.
Why attend the Royal Highland Show 2026?
- World‑class competitions: Watch elite farmers and breeders compete in livestock, sheep and equestrian competitions. The show’s livestock competitions draw the best herds, flocks and studs and include heavy horse classes, dairy cattle shows and showjumping.
- Food & drink paradise: Over 750 exhibitors set up at Scotland’s Larder, the dedicated food hall, where you can sample craft beers, artisan cheeses and local delicacies. Cooking demonstrations and the Food for Thought conference showcase top Scottish chefs.
- Family fun: There are interactive kids’ zones, petting farms, wood‑carving competitions, climbing challenges and even best‑dressed pet competitions. Children aged 15 and under enter free when accompanied by a paying adult.
- Heritage & culture: The show celebrates Scotland’s rural heritage, from pipe bands and Highland dancing to craftsmen demonstrating traditional skills.
- Shopping & networking: Beyond the agricultural ring you’ll find boutique designers, craft stalls, equine supplies and massive machinery displays. With 750 trade stands, it’s a great place to discover rural businesses and network with industry professionals.
History & Traditions: A Legacy of Rural Life
The Royal Highland Show began as a small gathering in the 1820s and has grown into the largest agricultural show in Scotland. Hosted by the RHASS, its mission is to promote the agricultural and rural industries of Scotland and showcase innovation. The show is steeped in tradition:
- Livestock showcase: The show hosts heavy horse, light horse, dairy cattle, sheep and goat classes. In 2025 more than 6,000 animals were exhibited. Winning here is considered the pinnacle of agricultural prestige.
- Competitive spirit: Farmers compete for 327 trophies, including the coveted supreme champion trophies. The heavy horse section, famed for its Clydesdales and Shires is a crowd favourite.
- Rural skills: Wood carving, shearing and tree‑climbing competitions celebrate traditional skills.
- Family heritage: The event has evolved into a family tradition for many Scots; grandparents who showed cattle decades ago now bring grandchildren to experience the same excitement.
What to Expect: Competitions, Food & Fun
The show is organised into several main areas, each offering its own attractions:
Livestock & equestrian arenas
Expect rings of gleaming cattle, sheep and goats being paraded, judged and photographed. The equestrian arena features show jumping, heavy horse displays and the elegant light horse classes. You can watch parades of prize‑winning animals or catch the farrier shoeing demonstrations. A highlight is the Grand Parade of Champions on Saturday afternoon when winners from all classes circle the main arena.
Scotland’s Larder & food courts
Foodies should head straight to Scotland’s Larder, a massive food hall featuring artisan producers, craft breweries and distilleries. Sample smoked salmon, venison sausages, craft gin, Scottish cheeses and sweet treats. Cooking demonstrations run throughout the day; local chefs share recipes and there’s even a children’s cookery theatre.
Rural crafts & shopping
Browse handcrafted woollen goods, pottery, jewellery, clothing and unique gifts. The show also hosts one of the UK’s largest outdoor agricultural machinery displays, if you’ve ever wanted to see a combine harvester up close, this is the place.
Live entertainment & events
Multiple entertainment stages host live folk, ceilidh and country music. The Royal Highland Hoolie, an evening concert that debuted in 2022, features folk and country acts and attracted over 7,462 people. Other attractions include shepherds’ crook competitions, farrier contests, dog agility displays and dramatic stunt shows.
Children’s zones & learning
Education is at the heart of the show. Through the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) programmes, the show offers interactive sessions where children learn about farming, food production and rural life. A discovery centre provides hands‑on activities, and children can participate in workshops, pet farm animals and even climb a mini tractor.
2026 Royal Highland Show Schedule & Highlights
While the full programme won’t be finalised until spring 2026, the framework remains similar each year. Below is a sample of what to expect:
Day‑by‑Day Overview & Must‑See Events
| Date & Time | Highlights & Insider Notes |
| Thursday 18 June 2026 gates open 07:00, close 19:00 | Opening day buzz! Livestock competitions begin early, with dairy cattle classes in the morning. Explore the heavy horse arena and visit Scotland’s Larder before it gets crowded. Enjoy afternoon showjumping and the first cookery demonstrations. |
| Friday 19 June 2026 07:00–19:00 | Breed championships and sheep shearing contests take centre stage. Craft stalls host special “meet the maker” sessions. Evening entertainment starts to build, try the whisky tasting events and catch the food and drink pairing demonstrations. |
| Saturday 20 June 2026 07:00–19:00 | Traditionally the busiest day. Arrive early to secure a spot at the Grand Parade of Champions. Kids’ zones host interactive workshops and the wood‑carving competition finals. The Royal Highland Hoolie takes place in the evening, tickets sold separately. |
| Sunday 21 June 2026 07:00–18:00 | Final chance to shop; some animals are auctioned after judging. Watch the showjumping finals and the heavy horse turnout display. The show winds down with closing ceremonies in the late afternoon. |
Pro tip: download the official Royal Highland Show app before arriving. It features a live map, event schedule and the ability to plan your own itinerary. If you prefer printed copies, programme booklets are available at the gates but often sell out by midday.
Getting There: Travel & Parking Guide
Location & directions
The Royal Highland Centre sits at Ingliston, EH28 8NB, right next to Edinburgh Airport. The showground is about 20 minutes on foot from the airport and 5 minutes by car; it’s roughly 20 minutes by car from Leith Central Station. The site covers over 280 acres, so comfortable shoes are essential.
By public transport
- Bus: Lothian Buses run direct services to the show. Bus 97 operates from Edinburgh Park to the East Entrance and costs around £5 return. Bus 98 travels from central Edinburgh (St Andrew Square) to the show via Edinburgh Airport. Buses run every 10 to 20 minutes during show days.
- Tram: Trams operate every seven minutes between Leith and Edinburgh Airport. Disembark at Ingliston Park & Ride and take the free shuttle bus to the show. Family Day Tripper tickets offer unlimited travel for two adults and three children.
- Train: The nearest railway station is Edinburgh Gateway (connected to the tram network). From there, take the tram or bus to the show. If you’re travelling from farther afield, the show is about 20 minutes by taxi from Edinburgh Waverley station.
By car
Driving gives you flexibility, but parking must be pre‑booked. The showground is next to the A8; follow signs for Ingliston from the M8/M9 junction or from central Edinburgh via the A8. Traffic can be heavy, especially on Saturday, so aim to arrive before 09:00. Parking costs around £15 per day (2023 prices). A two‑day parking pass costs about £20 and four‑day passes around £25.
Pro tip: avoid relying solely on sat‑nav. Some devices may route you to the entrance via back roads. Instead, follow the event signage once you exit the motorway.
By air
For international visitors, Edinburgh Airport is next door. Many hotels provide shuttle buses. It’s possible to walk from the airport to the show in about 20 minutes.
Accessibility
The showground aims to be inclusive. Wheelchair‑accessible parking is available near the entrance (pre‑book), and free wheelchairs can be reserved in advance. Many areas of the show are on grassy terrain, so all‑terrain wheelchairs or mobility scooters are recommended.
Tickets & Prices: What You Need to Know
Tickets for 2026 will go on sale in early 2026. Based on previous years, expect a tiered pricing structure:
- Adult day ticket: Around £35 Thursday to Saturday, £30 Sunday. Prices for 2026 may rise slightly.
- Farming Flexi (valid Thu or Fri): Approximately £38.50.
- Family ticket: Two adults and two children for around £85.
- Children (0–15 years): Free when accompanied by a paying adult.
- Royal Highland Hoolie combo ticket: In 2025 the combo ticket cost £62 (full day plus evening concert), half‑day combo £56, Hoolie‑only £35 and VIP upgrades £20. Expect similar pricing for 2026.
Tickets are sold via the Royal Highland Show’s official website and SeeTickets. There are separate tickets for parking and for the Hoolie. We recommend buying early, particularly for Saturday, which often sells out.
Where to Stay: Accommodation & Hotels
As one of Scotland’s largest events, the Royal Highland Show fills nearby hotels quickly. Here are some options to consider:
| Hotel | Distance from show | Highlights |
| Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh (4★) | 3.9 km from showground | Modern rooms, pool, gym; near Edinburgh Zoo. Good for families. |
| Premier Inn Edinburgh Airport (3★) | 4 km | Budget option within 5 minutes of the airport; on-site restaurant. |
| DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh Airport (4★) | 3 km | Comfortable, with shuttle service to the airport and show; includes pool. |
| Travelodge Ratho Station | 1.5 km | Basic but close to show; good for early arrivals. |
| Edinburgh city centre hotels | 20 minutes by tram | Stay in the heart of the city and commute via tram/bus for nightlife and sightseeing. |
Book your accommodation early, ideally before the end of 2025 to secure your preferred dates and rates. Some travel companies offer packages that include coach travel, accommodation and tickets.
Top Tips for Enjoying the Royal Highland Show
To make your experience memorable:
- Plan your itinerary: Use the app or programme to prioritise must‑see competitions and displays. Arrive early to catch popular events like the Grand Parade.
- Dress for Scottish weather: June can bring sunshine and showers. Wear waterproofs, layers and comfortable shoes; pack sunscreen and a hat.
- Stay hydrated and fuelled: Bring a reusable water bottle, there are water stations onsite. Pack snacks or pick up treats from Scotland’s Larder.
- Navigate wisely: The site is huge, over 280 acres. Pick up a map at the gate and familiarise yourself with landmarks (main ring, food hall, toilets). Wear a pedometer if you’re curious, expect to walk 10,000+ steps.
- Visit midweek: Thursday and Friday are quieter; you’ll have more room to browse and shorter queues for food and toilets.
- Try something new: Take a tractor driving lesson, attend a wood‑carving workshop or watch a farrier shoe a heavy horse.
- Shop smart: Bring cash and cards, some stalls may not accept cards. Many exhibitors offer show‑only discounts.
- Respect the animals: Remember these are working animals. Keep noise down, don’t feed them, and follow stewards’ instructions.
- Stay late for the Hoolie: The evening concert is a lively way to round off your day. Bring earplugs if you have sensitive ears.
- Pack for the kids: There’s plenty for children but bring snacks, spare clothes and ear protection if attending loud events.
Highland Games 2026 & Chauffeur Services
If you’re combining your visit to the Royal Highland Show with a wider Scottish adventure, consider attending some of the Highland Games taking place across Scotland from May to September. The Highland Games celebrate traditional strength events like caber tossing, hammer throw and Highland dancing. Major 2026 dates include:
- Gourock Highland Games (10 May 2026).
- Luss Highland Games (4 July 2026).
- Inverness Highland Games (11 July 2026).
- Bridge of Allan Games (2 August 2026).
- Braemar Gathering (5 September 2026, attended by royalty).
- Pitlochry Highland Games (12 September 2026).
Many visitors choose to stay in Inverness or Fort William and hire a chauffeur for the Highland Games season. Chauffeur services provide comfortable transport between games and allow you to enjoy the scenery and whisky tastings without worrying about driving. A typical service offers pick‑up from Inverness, visits to nearby games (e.g., Inverness or Braemar) and returns you to your hotel. For corporate groups or wedding parties, hiring a chauffeur is also a luxurious way to arrive at the Royal Highland Show or the games.
Frequently Asked Questions
What date is the Highland Show 2026?
The Royal Highland Show 2026 will take place from Thursday 18 June to Sunday 21 June 2026 at the Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston.
What are the dates for the Royal Highland Show?
It runs annually in mid‑June; in 2026 the dates are 18 to 21 June. 2025’s show ran from 19–22 June.
How much does it cost to get into the Royal Highland Show?
Ticket prices for 2026 haven’t been finalised, but based on 2023 and 2025 pricing you can expect adult day tickets around £35 on Thursday–Saturday and £30 on Sunday. Family tickets, flexi tickets and combo tickets with the Royal Highland Hoolie are available. Children aged 0 to 15 enter free.
Is the Royal Highland Show bigger than the Great Yorkshire Show?
Both shows are among the UK’s largest agricultural events. The Royal Highland Show attracted over 212,000 visitors in 2025, while the Great Yorkshire Show typically sees around 140,000 visitors. The Royal Highland Show covers 280 acres and includes more than 6,000 animals, so in terms of scale it is comparable or slightly larger. Each show celebrates regional farming heritage; attending both offers unique experiences.
Where is the Royal Highland Show held?
At the Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston, near Edinburgh Airport.
What is the Royal Highland Show 2026 schedule?
The show runs from Thursday to Sunday, with gates opening around 07:00 and closing at 19:00 (18:00 on Sunday). Specific event times (e.g., Grand Parade, showjumping finals) will be published nearer the date.
When are the Scotland Highland Games in 2026?
Highland Games run from May to September. Key dates include Gourock on 10 May 2026, Luss on 4 July 2026, Inverness on 11 July 2026, Bridge of Allan on 2 August 2026, Braemar on 5 September 2026 and Pitlochry on 12 September 2026.
How do I get tickets for the Royal Highland Show?
Tickets are sold via the official Royal Highland Show website and SeeTickets. It’s advisable to buy early for popular days (especially Saturday) and to pre‑book parking. Flexi tickets, family deals and Hoolie combo tickets will be available.
Are there any other events at the Royal Highland Show?
Yes! Besides the core show, there’s the Royal Highland Hoolie (an evening concert), educational programmes, daily cooking demonstrations, craft workshops and various competitions.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
You can bring a picnic but alcohol is not permitted to be brought into the showground. There are plenty of food and drink vendors on site.
Do people still live in the Scottish Highlands?
Yes, approximately 230,000 people live across the Highlands and islands. Many families maintain crofting traditions and Gaelic culture. If you plan to extend your trip beyond the show, consider exploring villages like Portree, Fort Augustus and Dornoch.
Conclusion
The Royal Highland Show 2026 promises to be another spectacular celebration of Scotland’s rural heritage. From prize‑winning cattle to artisan cheeses, from children’s workshops to the foot‑stomping Royal Highland Hoolie, there’s something for everyone. With advance planning you can avoid queues, secure the best tickets and make your visit comfortable and memorable.As you prepare for your trip, remember to book tickets early, check travel options and consider extending your stay to catch a Highland Games or two.
Whether you’re a farmer, foodie, family or tourist, the Royal Highland Show offers a genuine taste of Scotland’s countryside. Plan your 2026 visit today and if you need a lift to the games or show, a chauffeur service from Inverness is an effortless way to travel in style.
Emma is a solo traveler and freelance travel writer from New Zealand who spent three weeks exploring the Scottish Highlands. With a deep appreciation for history and landscapes, she booked a series of day tours and a private chauffeur journey with Scotland Highland Trip. From Loch Ness to the Cairngorms, she documented her experience through vivid blog posts and drone footage.
