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Edinburgh CastleEsplanadeThe esplanade at Edinburgh Castle was created in 1753 as a parade ground, measuring approx. 510ft by 300ft, on what was previously rough ground. The parapet and railing on the northern side were added in 1689 and the low wall on the southern side followed a few years later. Along the northern side of the esplanade are a number of statues and monuments, including those for Earl Haig and Ensign Ewart.
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo is held in August each year with grandstands being added to the esplanade to allow thousands of spectators from all over the world to watch this spectacular event. Over 200,000 people see the tattoo live each year of which about 70% are visitors to Scotland. It is also televised in 30 countries with an audience of 100 million! The Tattoo started in 1950 as quite a small event and has grown considerably over the years. The first overseas participants were the Band of the Royal Netherlands Grenadiers in 1952 and over 30 other countries have also taken part. Access to the Lower Ward of the castle is through the Gatehouse at the western end of the esplanade, while the eastern end leads on to Castlehill, the upper part of the Royal Mile. |
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