It is no secret that I am an avid fan of the Edinburgh Tattoo, indeed there is already a Must Visit Scotland blog post, dating back two years.
For the last few years however the spectacle seems to have grown both in popularity and stature, with fans returning year on year, expectations raised, looking to make the event increasingly more special.
When the opportunity arose therefore, to attend a pre-tattoo dinner in the sumptuous surroundings of The Signet Library, on Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, the scene was already mentally set. Organised by the highly talented team at the Heritage Portfolio and executed to commendable aplomb, the dinner and ticket event served a fabulous menu was served to the expectant audience, with expertise and timings, only a highly proficient event planner could execute.
One, long table sat centre stage, offering a less than usual dining experience, however, lending itself to a convivial atmosphere and much anticipatory chatter, following informal introductions to dining neighbours.
A difficult evening to plan for, outfit-wise; how do you combine timeless elegance with the standard pre-requisite for any Tattoo visit – thermals, hat and waterproof everything? Attire in itself offered a sharp contrast to the rather grand surroundings; disconcerting at first and mindful of a personal mental note to return, more appropriately dressed – next time.
Diners enjoyed a most splendid set dinner menu, served by attentive, helpful and friendly personnel, played out in most impressive library surroundings; the grand setting of many weddings and other, formal gatherings.
Friendships made, we departed the Library en masse and our chatter-filled, waterproofed group, wound it’s way through the throngs on the Royal Mile in eager anticipation of the evening on the Castle esplanade.
For us, the Tattoo, was once again, an evening to behold and one we are immensely proud of, especially given our company for the evening was one eager Australian, whose life’s ambition was to make it to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. We spent the rest of the show in awe, of the event playing out in front of us and also beside us, as our newly found Aussie friend experienced a rollercoaster of emotions and ultimately departed with fond, lasting memories of a superb spectacle and new Scottish friends!
